Wedding planner 2016 by Brookings Register

Table of Contents 4-6

17-20

21-22

Checklist & Timelin

Budget

2016 Color Trends

Symbols

Pets

9-10

2016 Cake Trends

Music

24-27

Questions to ask

28-29

Announcements

12-15 Fashion

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Post-Wedding Tasks

2016 CHECKLIST & TIMELINE PG. 4-6

16 TO 12 MONTHS • Start an inspiration folder •Work out your budget •Pick your wedding party • Start the guest list • Hire a planner • Contact a church and reception decorator • Reserve your date and venues • Book your officiant • Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers • Throw an engagement party

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Checklist & Timeline 11 TO 8 MONTHS

• Send Save the date cards

3 MONTHS

• Hire photographer & videographer

• Reserve structural & electrical necessities

• Finalize the menu and flowers

• Book the entertainment • Meet caterers • Purchase a dress • Reserve a block of hotel rooms

• Book a florist • Arrange transportation • Draw up a timeline for the day-of events.

• Choose your music • Order favors, if desired • Make a list of the people giving toasts • Finalize the readings

• Register for gifts

7 TO 6 MONTHS • Launch a wedding website • Select and purchase invitations • Start planning a honeymoon • Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses • Meet with the officiant

5 TO 4 MONTHS

• Finalize the order of the ceremony and the reception

• Book the rehearsal & rehearsal-dinner venues

• Print menu cards and programs

• Check on the wedding invitations

• Purchase wedding bands.

• Select and order the cake

• Send your event schedule to the vendors to allow time for adjustments

• Send your guest list to the host of your shower • Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings

Wedding Planner 2016

Checklist & Timeline • Visit the dressmaker for final fitting

• Delegate small wedding-day tasks

• Meet with the photographer

• Send out as many final payments as you can

• Send a timeline to the bridal party

• Review a loose playlist with the band or DJ

• Confirm times for hair & makeup and all vendors

• Pick up your dress

• Send out the invitations

• E-mail and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles

2 MONTHS • Touch base with all the vendors

• Submit engagement announcement to desired newspapers • Enjoy a bachelorette party

• Set aside checks for the vendors • Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts to present at the rehearsal dinner • Write vows, if necessary

1 MONTHS

• Get your hair cut and colored

• Enter RSVPs into your guest-list database

WEEK OF THE WEDDING

• Get your marriage license • Mail rehearsal dinner invitations

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• Check in one last time with the photographer

• Book manis and pedis • Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues hosting your wedding related events • Break in your shoes

• Reconfirm arrival times with vendors

• Pack for your honeymoon

Budget WEDDING ITEMS

BUDGETED

SPENT

VENUE AND RENTALS FOOD AND SERVICE BEVERAGES CAKE MISCELLANEOUS FEES GOWN AND ALTERATIONS HEADPIECE AND VEIL ACCESSORIES MAKEUP AND HAIR GROOM’S TUX OR SUIT GROOM’S ACCESSORIES FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS BOUQUETS BOUTONNIERES / CORSAGES RECEPTION DECORATIONS LIGHTING CEREMONY MUSICIANS RECEPTION MUSICIANS PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY TRANSPORTATION FAVORS CEREMONY FEES INVITATIONS / STATIONERY WEDDING RINGS

Wedding Planner 2016

Did you know PETS Pets play important roles in their ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives and are increasingly included in more activities, such as vacations, dining out and even weddings. The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters says more couples are customizing their wedding celebrations and bridal parties to include pets. Dogs and cats are turning up in wedding photos as well as trips down the aisle. Some pets even serve as ring bearers. Before giving your pet a job for the wedding, consider his personality and temperament. How does the pet react around crowds? A dog or cat accustomed to a quiet home may behave differently when placed in a room full of excited people. In addition, confirm that pets are allowed inside your ceremony space. Certain venues may not allow animals that are not service dogs. Make sure to inform guests that an animal will be present, so those with allergies can take precautions. If it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t practical to have animals in the ceremony, give them a primary spot in wedding or engagement photos.

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2016 CAKE TRENDS PG. 9-10

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Naked

Floral

Non-Traditional

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Traditional

Dessert Table

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2016 FASHION PG. 12-15

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Wedding dress silhouettes Finding the perfect gown that flatters the future bride's figure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labor of love for many brides. The Bridal Association of America estimates a bride-to-be will spend between $1,500 and $2,000 total on her gown, veil and accessories. Brides often spend months, if not years, shopping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what flatters certain body types. After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married. Here is a look of some of the common types of gown silhouettes and why choosing this shape might be right for you.

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairy tale princesses. With a fitted bodice and full skirt that flairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically poofed-up by crinoline and will hide the hips and thighs, women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their figures.

Another silhouette very forgiving or appropriate for many body types is the Aline gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived flaws. The cut of the dress will fit to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase "A." When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic and sensible and a favorite among brides.

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TRUMPET Women who prefer something a little more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.

MERMAID A bit more fitted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then flares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.

MODIFIED A-LINE A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures.

TEA LENGTH Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee.

SHEATH Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will definitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success. Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is a good idea to try on a number of different silhouettes to find the one that is most flattering. Bridal salon employees are usually well-versed in matching body type to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting a dress.

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Grooms: Look your wedding day best All eyes will be glued to the bride and groom on this special day, which makes it important for couples to look their collective best. To look picture-perfect, grooms may want to include these grooming tips in their wedding day preparation.

HAIR Schedule a haircut with a professional stylist roughly a week before the wedding to get your hair shaped and trimmed. Although trendy hairstyles may show off creativity, keep in mind that photos last forever, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often better to stick with a classic cut. Above all, the haircut should be neat.

SHAVING Shaving is another thing grooms must consider. If you have a beard, make sure it is clean, combed and trimmed. Men who shave the day of their weddings may find their skin is sensitive and irritated, which can lead to redness. Unless facial hair grows especially fast, shave the evening before.

SKIN Get plenty of sleep the night prior to the wedding. Being well rested will help reduce puffy eyes, dark circles and sallow skin. It will also put you in a more positive mood. The day of the wedding, shower using water and a mild soap. Avoid any skin irritation by patting your face and body dry, rather than rubbing. Moisturize your skin to avoid dry patches. Reducing shine is key for wedding day photos. Rely on face and hair products that will not add unnecessary sheen to your skin or hair. On their wedding days, grooms will likely be photographed more than any other time in their lives. That means putting extra effort into personal grooming to look their best.

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2016 COLOR TRENDS PG. 17-21

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Shades of Purple

Shades of Blue

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Neutral/Natural

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Shades of Pink

Shades of Gray

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Symbols PG. 21-22

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Good luck charms Couples’ wedding days are special moments, ones they hope pave the way to a life filled with happiness and good fortune. That’s why the bride and groom surround themselves with close friends and family who want to celebrate and support their new life joined together. The following are some of the symbols that couples may want to keep an eye out for on the day for good luck.

DOVE It’s good luck for the bride to see a dove on the way to the wedding because doves symbolize peace and prosperity. Because doves mate for life, this symbol is doubly beneficial on a couple’s wedding day, as it can be a harbinger of a long, happy marriage and home.

SUGAR CUBES Some brides believe sugar cubes tucked into their wedding gloves leads to a sweet union.

RAIN Hindu tradition states that rain on a wedding day is good luck. Rain is believed to be a symbol of fortune and abundance, especially after times of drought. What’s more, rain can foretell a strong marriage. That’s because a wet knot is more difficult to untie.

PINE TREES In Holland, well-wishers would plant pine trees outside of newlyweds’ homes as a symbol of fertility and luck.

Did you know BRIDAL SHOWER

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COINS Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the way to their weddings. This is another symbol of good luck.

FULL MOON Some couples plan to marry during a full moon, because that can symbolize good luck and good fortune.

CRYING On a couple’s wedding day, tears from a bride or a child during the ceremony is considered lucky.

FIREWORKS The Chinese believe that lighting fireworks at their wedding ceremonies chases away evil spirits. A red umbrella also might be held over a Chinese bride to keep bad spirits at bay.

BELLS Bells may chime at Irish weddings to keep evil spirits away and ensure a harmonious family life. Some brides also will tuck small bells into their bouquets.

UNPLEASANT THING Egyptian women may pinch the bride on her wedding day for good luck. English folklore suggests that brides who discover spiders in their gowns are in for some good luck.

The modern bridal shower may trace its origins to the 1890s. “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” says the first bridal shower hostess filled a paper parasol with small presents and turned it over the head of the bride-to-be. Soon the concept caught on, and many other women began “showering” future brides in such a manner. Naturally, as presents became larger and heavier, the tradition of literally showering the bride with gifts was modified — but the name has stuck. Bridal showers are designed to equip couples with many of the necessities to start their new life together. This custom is believed to have evolved from an old dowry system, in which a bride was expected to bring valuables to the marriage. Some parents of the bride were not rich enough to afford an ample dowry, so friends and family members would offer small gifts to help offset this financial responsibility. Today, both the bride and groom are equal partners in the marriage, bringing together their collective wealth. However, showers are still held regardless of the financial need of the bride as a way to offer good wishes before she embarks on her new journey.

Music

You Got It - Roy Orbison

How Sweet It Is - James Taylor

Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran

More Than Words - Extreme

I Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Give Up - Jason Mraz

Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding

Fly Me To The Moon - Frank Sinatra

Grow Old With Me - Tom Odell

All Of Me - John Legend

Time Of My Life - Dirty Dancing

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Questions TO ASK PG. 24-27

The Venue • Can they accommodate both the ceremony and reception? • If having an outdoor ceremony is there a weather back up space? • Is there a ceremony site fee? • What restrictions/policies/ guidelines etc. are involved with the ceremony? • By booking the ceremony and reception at the same place, will they waive the ceremony site fee? • Is there a food & beverage minimum for the reception space, along with room rental? • If there is a food and beverage minimum, does it include service charge and tax, or is it exclusive of that? • If you reach the food and beverage minimum, will they waive the room rental fee? • What is the food and beverage minimum and room rental fee? • Is there a discount for weddings on Fridays?

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• How much of a deposit is required to secure the date and space? • How is the payment schedule set up? • Do they offer a preferred vendors list? • What are the policies/guidelines for receptions? • Are the chairs, tables, base linens, etc. included? • Do they offer an on site wedding coordinator? • If so, how extensive are the services? • What is the preferred method of communication? • How early will you have access to the space for setting up? • What are the policies in regards to tear down/etc.? • How many weddings take place on the same day? Do the paths cross? • What is the parking situation for guests? • What is the set up fee for the bar?

The Photographer

The Florist

• Are you the photographer who will shoot my wedding?

• Can I see some examples of your other wedding work?

• Have you shot a wedding at my venues before?

• Will you be the one designing my arrangements?

• Do you have a portfolio/list of references?

• Do you require a minimum floral budget?

• Can I give you a list of specific shots we would like?

• Can you give me ideas within my budget?

• Do you charge a travel fee?

• Do you offer packages or is everything customized?

• Can I customize a package based on my needs?

• Do you charge for a consultation/how many do I get?

• Do you provide retouching, or corrective services? • How long after the wedding will I get the proofs?

• Which flowers would you recommend based on the time of year/season, color palette, and budget?

• Will they be viewable online? On a CD?

• Do you provide any other accessories with the flowers?

• What is the ordering process for photos?

• How much is the deposit and when is it due?

• How much of a deposit do you require?

• When is the final payment due?

• Do you offer a payment plan?

• When should I finalize the order?

• What is your refund/cancellation policy?

• How far in advance do I need to order?

• Is it okay if other people take photos while you're taking photos?

• What is delivered when & when /do you charge a delivery fee?

• What time will you arrive at the site?

• How long do you need to set up?

• If my event lasts longer than expected, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?

• Do you charge a set up/breakdown fee?

• Do you need special access to water?

• Do you charge for breakage?

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The Officiant • What's your experience? • What is the contingency plan if you can’t make it? • Are you flexible to travel if required? • What are your credentials? • How often will we meet? • Do you require counseling? • Can we choose special readings or music? • Will you participate in the rehearsal? • Are there restrictions in attire, or our bridal party’s attire? • Is flash photography allowed during the ceremony? • How much do you charge? • Is a deposit required? • Will you fill out the wedding certificate and send it in? • Is there a cancelation and refund policy? • Will you be joining us at the reception?

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The Deejay • Is this your full-time business? • Are weddings your primary focus? • Will you be the deejay at our wedding? • How long have you been a deejay? • How do you customize the music experience for each couple? • Can you help with song lists and suggestions? • How do you handle song requests? • Have you played at our chosen wedding venue before? • What other services do you offer (e.g. lighting, HD video screens)? • Do you act as the “emcee” and make all of the announcements? • How would you define your “style” when making announcements? • Do you offer a written contract? • Can we submit a “Do Not Play” list?

The Cake Designer

The Caterers

• Are you licensed and insured? • Can I see your portfolio, and did you make all the cakes in it? • Do you customize wedding cakes or do I select from set designs? • If I don't have a clear vision of what I would like, can you offer some design ideas? • What cake and filling flavors do you offer? • Do you use buttercream or fondant? • Do you have a minimum cake cost? • Will there be any additional rental fees • When will these items need to be returned? • Will there be an additional delivery fee? • How far in advance should I order my cake? • How much is the deposit and when is it due? • When is the final payment due? • What are your delivery services?

• Are menus set, or do you have some flexibility? • Can you customize your own menu or use a family recipe? • What are their most popular dishes? • Do you have to pay a deposit to hold the date? • What’s the cancellation policy? • Do the staff and servers receive a flat gratuity? Is that number in the contract? • Does the cost cover just the food, or does it include linens, utensils, dishes and glassware rental, too? • Does the per-person cost include the service staff and cleanup? • Are sales taxes included in the contract? • Can they accommodate any dietary restrictions? • Do they provide a children’s meal? If so, is there a reduced cost per person? • When is the final payment due?

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2016 ANNOUNCEMENTS PG. 28-29

Engagement ANNOUNCEMENT

You may include either a black and white or color photograph with your announcement. Your photograph may be picked up at our office after it appears in the paper. If you would like your photograph mailed back to you, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. High quality photographs (at least 300dpi) can be sent along with this form to dkott@brookingsregister.com.

_________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE-TO-BE GROOM-TO-BE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ PARENTS OF BRIDE-TO-BE PARENTS OF GROOM-TO-BE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ CITY, STATE CITY, STATE THE ANNOUNCEMENT IS TO BE MADE BY:

■ Couple

■ Bride’s Parents

■ Parents of Both

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ EDUCATION AND OCCUPATION OF BRIDE-TO-BE _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ EDUCATION AND OCCUPATION OF GROOM-TO-BE _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ WEDDING DATE AND LOCATION (if known)

We may have questions. Please provide us with contact information in case we need to reach you to clarify submission information: ____________________________________________________________ CONTACT NAME _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER AND/OR EMAIL ADDRESS PHOTO ENCLOSED

■ YES ■ NO

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RETURN ENVELOPE

■ YES ■ NO

Wedding ANNOUNCEMENT

Fill out all the applies. _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S NAME GROOM’‘S NAME _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S RESIDENCE GROOM’S RESIDENCE _________________________________ ______________ __________________________________________________ WEDDING DATE TIME CITY, STATE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ WEDDING LOCATION CLERGY/OFFICIANT _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ MAID/MATRON TO HONOR BEST MAN _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDESMAIDS GROOMSMEN _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ FLOWER GIRL RING BEARER ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ USHERS _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S PARENTS RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ GROOM’S PARENTS RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ RECEPTION LOCATION SPECIAL PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ HONEYMOON PLANS FUTURE RESIDENCE _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ BRIDE’S PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT BRIDE’S EDUCATION _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ GROOM’S PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT GROOM’S EDUCATION

We may have questions. Please provide us with contact information in case we need to reach you to clarify submission information: ______________________________________________________________ CONTACT NAME _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ CONTACT PHONE NUMBER AND/OR EMAIL ADDRESS RETURN ENVELOPE ■ YES ■ NO PHOTO ENCLOSED ■ YES ■ NO

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Post-wedding day tasks Once guests head home and couples depart for their honeymoons, much of the work is done. But there are some lingering tasks for couples once they return from their trip.

THANK-YOU NOTES Notes should be sent to all guests who attended your wedding as well as those who could not attend but still gave gifts. Carve out some time in the weeks immediately following your honeymoon to write personalized thank-you notes.

CAKE Return to your wedding reception venue to pick up any leftover cake. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customary to eat leftover cake, if you have any, on your first anniversary.

VENDOR REVIEWS Many vendors now rely on Internet reviews from past customers to help grow their businesses, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a nice gesture for couples to offer their reviews.

DRESS New brides who want to keep their dresses as keepsakes or preserve them as heirlooms should have their dresses cleaned and professionally preserved. The earlier you do this, the easier it is to remove any stains that might have developed during your wedding.

GIFT RETURNS Newly married couples often receive repeat gifts or gifts they never put on their registries. Return such gifts as soon as possible. Upon returning gifts, you also can do a little shopping, as you will have money to spend. In addition, many stores give newly married couples discounts on registry items that went unpurchased.

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