Dainty Obsessions Planner & Vendor Guide 2016

PLANNER & VENDOR GUIDE

T H E C O M P L E T E 2 016 G U I D E F RO M T H E I N D U S T RY ' S B E S T A N D DA I N T Y O B S E S S I O N S .

PL AN N E R & VE N D OR GUI DE 2 01 6

Before You Start

Checklist & Planner

2

Letter From Dainty

8

10 to 16 Months

4

Dream Day

24

6 to 9 Months

6

Important Dates

32

3 to 5 Months

42

4 to 6 Weeks

50

2 Weeks

54

Week of the Wedding

50

Day of Wedding

64

After the Wedding

Here to Help

Vendor Advice

15

Budget Breakdown

9

Sarah Hardie Photography

25

Stellar Limousine

56

Bridal Survival Kit

11

Glasser Images

37

Penny Tree Events

Final Timeline

19

Sadie's Couture Floral & Event Styling

39

Bayfield Weddings

Vendor Profiles

21

Washington Pavilion

41

Pinnacle Productions

Engagement Party Gift List

23

Grassfire Studios

43

Jordan Edens Photography

Bridal Shower Gift List

25

Hilton Garden Inn Sioux Falls DT

45

Zach Davis Photography

73

Bachlorette Party Gift List

27

L'atelier Couture Bridal

49

Travel Partners

75

Wedding Gift List

29 AENDEE

51

The Flower Mill

31

53

Glamour Grace

61

The Beauty Room

59 66 68 70

82 Credits

Borsheim's Fine Jewelry & Gifts

33 Stationery

A L E T T ER F ROM T H E DAI N T Y L ADI ES . . .

Whether or not you are the asked or the askee, the word "yes" has been uttered, which starts your exciting future together as a married couple.

There is so much planning to be done, but don't worry! We're here with some of the best professionals in the Midwest to walk you through each task with oodles of advice along the way.

Things to remember right away before planning even begins: Your wedding is your wedding with your partner. You can make it whatever you want it to be with the help of your friends, family and wedding professionals. Want to elope? No worries. Want to have a giant, glamorous affair? It could happen. Just don't feel pressured to have your day be something you're not feeling.

Have ideas already in your head, but feel overwhelmed on where to start? Anything is possible with the right help, organization and direction.

Know this is going to be a stressful time, but also know you and your partner are in for such a fun ride that ends in celebrating your commitment to one another. The groom has the wrong boutonniere?

You'll giggle when you look back at photos. Aunt Lisa had one too many cocktails at your wedding shower? Your family will be chuckling about it still during the holidays. The wrong song is played during your first dance? You'll keep on dancing and remember that song for the rest of your life with a smile on your face.

Everything is meant to be.

So sit back and relax as you go through the checklist, and we'll do the best we can to help make your day yours. And when in doubt, a glass of champagne never hurts while you're checking things off the list!

Happy planning,

DE AR DIARY...MY DR EAM DAY

BEFORE YOU START YOUR OFFICIAL CHECKLIST, FILL IN THE BLANKS TO THESE ANSWERS.

We want our wedding at (answer best fit):

hometown currently live destination

Who is paying for the (mark with an X):

rehearsal dinner

Our

Bride's parents

Where we A

Groom's parents We are Combination of us and

My ideal wedding is (mark with an X):

small medium large Who is paying for the

most important

Three elements/vendors for me are (i.e. DJ, photographer, venue, catering/beverage, flowers):

wedding

(mark with an X):

Bride's parents Groom's parents We are

least important

Three elements/vendors for me are (i.e. DJ, photographer, venue, catering/beverage, flowers):

Combination of us and

THESE FIRST DECISIONS WILL HELP POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTIONS WITH THE CHECKLIST, BUDGETS, AND VISION.

Important Dates ENGAGEMENT PARTY DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

BRIDAL SHOWER DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

BRIDAL SHOWER DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

BRIDAL SHOWER DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

BACHELORETTE PARTY DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

REHEARSAL DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

REHEARSAL DINNER DATE TIME HOSTS LOC ATION

NOTES:

1 0 TO 1 6 MONT H S HOW ARE YO U FEELING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

^ Set the Date

Compare schedules with important family and friends.

DAINTY TIP: Consider weather and travel expenses

^ Celebrate Your Engagement

Celebrate your engagement with friends and family either with a casual get together(s) or an engagement party.

^ Book Photographer

Hire a wedding photographer and schedule your engagement session.

HAPPY

EXCITED

{

/

READY

/

Having an engagement party?

When and Where?

Who is paying for it?

Our budget for photography is Our photographer is Our engagement session is when?

}

DO wedding planner WHY GE T E NGAG E MENT + WEDDI NG PHOTOS FROM TH E SAME PHOTO GR APH ER?

I

have found that during the engagement session it gives the couple the opportunity to get to know their photographer, how they shoot, and how they as a couple feel and behave in front of the camera. This will make the wedding day much more relaxed as they will know what to expect. Also, it can be a bit of a 'trial run' in that if you or the photographer notices something strange or funny that you do without realizing it, you can work to correct these things for the wedding photos! I once had a bride realize that she didn't love her 'serious face' from her engagement session and so she worked on it between then and the wedding day and her wedding photo 'serious face' was much better! —Sarah Hardie

sarahhardiephotography.com // 701-640-9286 // sarahhardiephotography@gmail.com

^ Wedding Party

Choose your wedding party and inform them of important dates as soon as possible.

MAID OF HONOR PHONE EMAIL MATRON OF HONOR PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL BRIDESMAI D/MAN PHONE EMAIL

BEST MAN PHONE EMAIL GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL

10 TO 16 MONTHS

DO wedding planner

HOW TO PICK T HE RIGHT PHOTO GRAPHER ?

F

inding the right photographer is so important. Review their portfolio, meet with them, ask tons of questions, take a look at their reviews, and visit their Facebook page, Instagram profile, and/ or Twitter. Social media as well as their blog is where the most recent images usually are. Find someone you 'click' with and hire a professional who has a great reputation! You will not regret it!

GL AS SE R IMAGES

glasserimages.com // 701-250-2190 // jack@glasserimages.com

—Jack Glasser

10 TO 16 MONTHS GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL GROOMSMAN/WOMAN PHONE EMAIL

PERSONAL ATTENDANT PHONE EMAIL PERSONAL ATTENDANT PHONE EMAIL HOST PHONE EMAIL HOST PHONE EMAIL GUESTBOOK ATTENDANT PHONE EMAIL

FLOWER GIRL PARENT PHONE FLOWER GIRL PARENT PHONE

10 TO 16 MONTHS RINGER BEARER PARENT PHONE

USHER PHONE EMAIL USHER PHONE EMAIL

^ Wedding Binder

Start a wedding binder or folder where you can keep track of payments, deposits, phone numbers, etc.

^ Final Budget

Work out who is paying for what and come to what your final budget looks like.

$ $ 22, 0 0 0 IS ROUGHLY THE AVERA GE COST TO HA VE A WEDDING IN THE MIDWEST.

Budget Breakdown

W

e love when clients bring in their binders full of images and can vocalize their vision for their wedding; however, there seems to be a disconnect with one’s budget and one’s vision. The vision does not always match the percentage breakdowns of one’s budget. We developed very generalized categories of weddings: the modest wedding, the moderate wedding and the comprehensive wedding broken down in three (3) types of weddings into “per person costs”.

This is merely intended to be a guideline, and naturally people will float between the categories based on items that are more/less important to them. The costs figured in for each type of vendor is based on Midwest/non-metropolitan vendor price averages. As a generalization, though, if a bride were to say that she is anticipating 300 guests to attend her wedding and her overall budget is $20,000.00 – the breakdown of categories would assist in determining a different approach to planning the wedding and vendor selections.

—THE STAFF OF SADIE’S COUTURE FLORAL & EVENT STYLING

The Modest Wedding

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON: $61.88

VENUE

Community space where the rental charges is less than $500. Chairs and 8’ rectangular tables are provided. Limited or no on-site catering is offered. Linens likely not offered.

FOOD

Buffet-style. Typical to see BBQ or pasta offering. Otherwise, 1 meat, one side, salad, rolls. Limited to no serving staff.

BEVERAGES

Cash bar only (bride and groom are not hosting complimentary alcohol).

Punch provided.

COST FOR A 250 PERSON WEDDING: $15,470.00

BRIDAL ATTIRE TUXEDOS CEREMONY FLOWERS

Gown and all accessories total no more than $1500.00 Tuxedo rental at no cost with rental of groomsmen tuxedos.

No charge for ceremony space. No floral décor.

Bridal party flowers only. For the reception, do-it-yourself centerpieces budgeting no more than $25.00 per table to make.

MUSIC

COST FOR A 400 PERSON WEDDING: $24,752.00

CAKE PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS INVITATIONS

Friends at ceremony. I-pod for reception.

Small bridal cake with sheet cakes for guests.

Newer photographer building their portfolio or family/friends.

Family/friend providing. No cost.

Less than $30/person.

Do-it-yourself from pre-made kits. Postage included for save-the-dates, invitations and thank you cards.

TRANSPORTATION WELCOME GIFTS FOR

Limousine for bride and groom only.

None

OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS FAVORS

None

The Moderate Wedding

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON: $151.13

VENUE

Hotel ballroom. Facility offers round tables, chairs and cloth tablecloths and napkins. Catering is on-site.

FOOD

Offering of standard chicken or red meat, potato, salad, rolls, coffee, tea, punch. Full serving staff.

BEVERAGES

Bride and groom host complimentary drinks for cocktail hour. Cash bar for remainder of reception.

COST FOR A 250 PERSON WEDDING: $37,782.50

BRIDAL ATTIRE TUXEDOS CEREMONY FLOWERS

Gown and all accessories total no more than $2000.00 Tuxedo rental at no cost with rental of groomsmen tuxedos.

Fee for officiant/organist.

Bridal party flowers. Two floral arrangements for ceremony for altar. Modest, low profile centerpieces for reception guest tables.

MUSIC

COST FOR A 400 PERSON WEDDING: $60,452.00

CAKE PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS INVITATIONS

Hired vocalists/musician for ceremony. Hired DJ for reception.

2-tier cake for bridal party with sheet cakes for guests.

Hired photographer with at least 2-years experience.

Videographer newer in industry building portfolio.

Less than $50/person.

Ordered through invitation company, but simple in design. Postage included for save-the-dates, invitations and thank you cards.

TRANSPORTATION WELCOME GIFTS FOR

Limousine for bridal party.

Something simple and modest.

OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS FAVORS

Less than $1.00 each

The Comprehensive Wedding VENUE

Elegant or non-traditional venue (which would include outdoor receptions).

Elegant venue would offer tables, chairs, cloth tablecloths and napkins and full-

AVERAGE COST PER PERSON:

service catering. Non-traditional venue would require rental of basic items such as tables, chairs, linens; which are budgeted in the per person cost.

FOOD

$418.25+

Butler passed hors d’oeuvres, champagne and wine. Dinner would offer multiple choices and higher end options (filet mignon, prime rib, seafood, etc.). Full service staff on-site including an event manager.

BEVERAGES BRIDAL ATTIRE

COST FOR A 250 PERSON WEDDING: $104,562.50

Bride and groom provide complimentary hosted bar for entire reception.

Couture gown and accessories. Bride would have a hair and make-up artist onsite for her bridal party.

TUXEDOS CEREMONY FLOWERS

Couture tuxedo rental or suit purchase.

Hired musicians and vocalists. Fee for officiant/organist.

Bridal party flowers. Altar floral arrangements and pew dĂŠcor. Guest table centerpieces customized. Both low and tall profile floral arrangements incorporated.

COST FOR A 400 PERSON WEDDING: $167,300.00

LINENS/CHAIRS CUSTOM LIGHTING MUSIC CAKE

Floor-length linens rented. Chair covers and sashes or rental chairs rented.

Subtle up-lighting rented.

Cocktail hour musicians hired. Live band hired for dance.

Custom bridal cake to serve all guests or custom desserts/cupcakes.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Experienced photographer (more than 4 years).

VIDEOGRAPHY

Experienced videographer (more than 4 years).

BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS

Personalized gifts for all bridal party members.

INVITATIONS

Custom designed save-the-dates, invitations, menu cards, and place cards.

Postage included for save-the-dates, invitations and thank you cards.

TRANSPORTATION

Limousine or custom vehicle for bride and groom. Additional limousine for bridal party.

WELCOME GIFTS FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS FAVORS

Welcome bags/baskets for all traveling out-of-town guests to be presented when they check in t hotels.

Personalized favors for all guests.

DO wedding planner TOP 5 MISTAKES TO AVOID IN PL ANNING A WE DDING: •

NOT HAVING AN OPEN AND HONEST CONVERSATION WITH THOSE ASSISTING IN PAYING FOR THE EVENT UP FRONT. Many bridal clients are nervous about discussing this with families, but it is the most important item to address early in the planning stages. Do not make assumptions about what people are willing to contribute! Also, it would be important to get down to the basics. Some family members may say they will pay for the flowers or the rehearsal dinner, but it is important to talk about a dollar value as their expectations and yours may not match up.

•

UNDERESTIMATING THE TRUE COSTS. Research the costs in your area of the average prices for all vendors to get a realistic idea of what everything costs and then decide on your priorities from there (i.e. In the Midwest, guest count is a huge factor as this area’s weddings tend to have large guest counts).

•

CHOOSING A VENUE THAT DOESN'T FIT YOUR BUDGET, GUEST COUNT OR STYLE. Granted in some communities there may not be a lot of venue options. But, choosing one that best fits all of these factors is important.

•

IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE A DIY BRIDE, UNDERSTAND FULLY WHAT THAT ENTAILS. Assess your capabilities, time and resources. Consider how much time and money you will spend doing things yourself and decide if it may be less stressful to hire someone to do some aspects for you.

•

NOT ALLOWING YOURSELF ENOUGH (OR TOO MUCH) TIME TO PLAN. For most this isn't an issue; however, part of the fun of planning an event is to have enough time to enjoy the process and not stress over it. That also goes for having too much time to plan for it and being "over" it months before the big day.

—Sadie Gardner

sadiesfloralnd.com // 701-317-3255 // info@sadiesfloralnd.com

^ Wedding Website

10 TO 16 MONTHS

Create a wedding website and, if desired, submit your engagement to your hometown newspaper. Sign up for fun websites like DaintyObsessions.com and Pinterest.

DAINTY TIP: Create a Facebook event and invite people to remind them of important dates and updates about your wedding.

^ Look and Feel

Decide on the look and feel of your wedding (vintage, formal, rustic, outdoors, traditional, beach). Do you already know your color scheme you're drawn to?

The look and feel of our wedding is

COLOR IN WITH COLORED PENCILS

Our favorite colors are Our color scheme is

Start developing your guest list.

DAINTY TIP: Create your guest list in a

spreadsheet. Later on when you send out save the dates, invites, and thank you's, you can print addresses on the envelope the addresses in any font you want with "mail merchant," or simply use it for reference for addresses.

Also, buy a book of stamps a week. That way the cost of postage will not ding your wallet .

} }

^ Guest List

Main Colors

Accent Colors

DO wedding planner O UR TOP 5 TI PS FOR PL AN N I NG YOUR WEDDING •

•

Set a budget and stick to it. As uncomfortable as it may be, sit down with all parties involved to find out what everyone is contributing. Once you have a set budget, stick to it. Nothing will create more stress than being over your budget.

Draft a guest list before looking for a venue.

When shopping for a venue, the first question you will be asked is, 'How many guests are you expecting?' Have a concrete idea so that you don’t end up with 300 guests in a 100-person venue or over paying for the 300-person venue when you could have saved money on a smaller space. It doesn’t have to be exact, but it needs to be close.

•

Pick a date range before looking for a venue.

DO NOT settle on a date and then go shopping for your venue, entertainment, and other aspects of the event. Pick a season or a range of dates. Know that your venue books many events every year, so you may need to be flexible if your venue is where you absolutely want to be.

•

Prioritize where you will spend your money.

Create a list 1-5 of what is most important to you as far as food, bar, entertainment, photos, and décor. Then apply your budget to this list accordingly.

•

Get organized. Create a timeline so you know when tasks need to be accomplished. Get all your important phone numbers in one place.

Create a checklist and worksheets. Do whatever you need to do to be as organized as possible.

Nothing says 'I’ve got this' like checklists and bullet points.

—Allyson Kasch

washingtonpavilion.org // 605-367-7397 ext. 2345 // events@washingtonpavilion.org

^ Ceremony Traditions

Select and book your clergy or officiant and discuss ceremony ideas/traditions.

^ Dream Team

Book your dream team: the photographer, band/DJ, florist, hair stylist, makeup artist, videographer, venue, baker, and caterers (meet with several to compare costs and find the right fit). Find a wedding coordinator at this time as well, if applicable.

DAINTY TIP: If you believe a vendor you are

passionate about is in high demand, book them as soon as possible.

10 TO 16 MONTHS

Officiant Ideas

Traditions

Venue

P hone # Baker

P hone #

P hotographer

Caterer

Band/ DJ

Wedding Coordinator

F lorist

Hair Stylist

Videographer

Makeup Artist

P hone #

P hone #

P hone #

P hone #

^ Order Save the Dates If opting for printed stationery.

P hone #

P hone #

P hone #

P hone #

DO wedding planner

5 IMP OR TAN T R EASONS TO CONSIDE R CINEMATO G R APHY. . .

1. Your wedding day will be a blur. You'll be busy getting ready, checking on vendors, wrangling the bridal party, greeting family members, and worrying about tripping on your dress that you'll barely have a moment to just breathe. With a wedding film, you won't have to worry about missing a thing.

2. After your vows, speeches at your reception by your wedding party and family are often the most emotional parts of your day. Being able to relive the stories, advice, and toasts after your wedding day is priceless.

3. Most couples spend months planning. But when the day finally comes, it's tough to find time to reflect on all the details that you've worked so hard to put together. A wedding film brings all the most important parts of your day back to life.

4. Your future children will love you for it. Imagine being able to show your children the look on your husband's face as he saw you in your dress. Or your first kiss. And your first dance as a married couple.

5. Memories fade. Over time, it's tough to remember all the candid laughs, genuine smiles, and happy tears of your wedding day. Just like photos, a wedding film takes you back to your wedding day, helping you to keep every moment alive. —Preston Johnson grassfirestudios.com // 701-630-3783 // hello@grassfirestudios.com

6 TO 9 MONT H S HOW AR E YO U FEEL ING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

HAPPY

EXCITED

READY

^ Send Save the Dates

Alert out-of-town guests about the date and send a save the date (physical copy or electronic).

^ Hotel Room

Reserve a block of rooms at the hotel(s) for out-of-town guests. Book your wedding hotel room accommodations at the same time.

DAINTY TIP: Try to block and book hotels close

to the reception venue. Also consider blocking hotels with different price points so your guests have options.

Guest Hotel P hone # Our Hotel P hone #

DO wedding planner

WH ER E TO B EG I N TO BLO CK RO OMS. . .

R

eserving hotel room blocks is the best way to ensure your guests have a place to stay nearby your reception. At the Hilton Garden InnDowntown, we will give you a discount on the guestroom rate for reserving a wedding block, which you can then pass along to your guests. Hotel policies and procedures may vary when it comes to reserving a wedding block at individual hotels.

For example, we will set up a guestroom block at any time it is requested and do not require a certain length of time prior to your event before we book those. But the earlier that you look into reserving a wedding block, the more likely you are to be provided with a better rate. By waiting to do this, you may run into a higher block rate or limited availability because of other events and blocks that are already established at the hotel of your choice.

TIPS: When you call, give the hotel the dates you expect your guests to be stay, plus any special requests you're hoping they'll help you fulfill (like dropping welcome bags at the door or transportation to and from the airport).

Start with a smaller amount of rooms and add more later if needed.

We go a step further and build a HiltonLink - this is a personalized URL that you can provide your guests with that will allow them to book that discounted rate up until the cut-off date, 24-7. Our couples love this option and find it very useful by adding it to their wedding website or even their Facebook Event Page. —Sarah Maag

facebook.com/HiltonGardenInnSiouxFallsDowntown // (605) 444-4700

^ Dress Shopping.

6 TO 9 MONTHS

Start dress shopping.

^ Dessert Tasting

Have a cake/dessert tasting.

^ Plan Menu

Meet caterers and begin planning menu.

DAINTY TIP: Consider guests food allergies; have gluten free and vegan options.

^

Our Caterer Budget $ Appetizers Entrée

^ Plan Bouquets

Treats and Sweets

Meet florist to plan bouquets, centerpieces, etc. (check all that apply).

Our Florist

Bride's Bouquet Bridesmaids' Bouquets

[Budget $

Ceremony Décor

{ {

Boutonnières

Centerpieces Flower Crowns

]

Groom

Step- Father

Groomsmen

Grandfathers

Father

Ushers

Father-in-law

Mother

Corsages

Mother-in-law, Step- Mother Grandmothers Personal Attendants

DO wedding planner B R I DAL TIM ELINES…

W

e recommend purchasing your gown 6-8 months in advance to account for time for alterations. Honestly it is never too soon to purchase your wedding gown as it can help you set the tone for your wedding day knowing what you are wearing! All of our gowns are custom order and made for you at the time of purchase, which is why we recommend ordering your gown so far in advance. It is helpful to also purchase accessories such as a sash or veil at the time of your wedding gown so that there is not a delay in their arrival, as many of these items can also be special order and need a minimum of 4 months to produce.

We recommend starting your alterations 2 months prior to your wedding day with your final fitting 2 weeks prior to your big day. You need to have your shoes before your fittings so that the seamstress knows how long to pin your hem length.

Having difficulty choosing your wedding shoes? Have fun with them! Your shoes are only visible as you are stepping forward and only peek out slightly from beneath your hem. This is why we encourage our brides to find a shoe they love and would want to wear again! Same with your jewelry — purchase accessories you truly would wear again! Traditionally you should be wearing your shoes and jewelry for your anniversary.

Shopping at a bridal boutique is special because we want the entire process to be joyful for you as a bride and hope to make your gown purchase and experience as seamless and memorable as possible!

XOXO —Madeline Bergeson

lateliercouturebridal.com// 612-367-8120 // info@lateliercouturebridal.com

^ Order Formal Attire

6 TO 9 MONTHS

Order your wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses, along with ordering suits/tuxes for the groom and groomsmen. Start nailing down accessories and wedding shoes.

DAINTY TIP: Figure out if you are paying for the wedding party's attire or if they are handling it.

Bride [Budget $

]

Groom [Budget $

]

Dress

Tux / Suit [Coat, shirt, vest, pants]

Veil

S hoes / Socks

S hoes

Tie/ Bow Tie

Hair Piece / Jewelry

Cuff-links

$1,281 T HE AVE RAG E AM O U N T B RI D E S S P E N D O N T HE I R WE DD I N G DRE S S , ACCO RD I N G T O A N AT I O N AL S U RVE Y B Y T HE K N O T . CO M .

Bridesmaids [Budget $

]

Groomsmen [Budget $

]

Dress

Tux / Suit [Coat, shirt, vest, pants]

S hoes

S hoes / Socks

Hair Piece / Jewelry

Tie / Bow Tie Cuff-links

DO wedding planner I NCOR P OR AT E T H E M E MORY OF A LOVED ON E ON YO UR WEDDING DAY WI TH UP CYCL ED ACCES S OR I ES! •

Choose a beloved button-down shirt.

•

Take your pick: bow ties, neckties, pocket squares, cufflinks – you can turn your chosen shirt into several accessories.

•

Receive a beautifully handcrafted heirloom accessory to be worn during your ceremony and for years to come.

•

Get creative with mixed and matched bow tie and necktie collections, an eco-friendly option for your groomsmen that double as great gifts!

—Ashley Dedin

aendee.com // 701-261-8816 // aendeehandmade@gmail.com

6 TO 9 MONTHS

^ Register

Begin to register.

Registered at:

DAINTY TIP: Choose at least two stores. The

best bet is to choose one online store and one brick and mortar store.

^ Plan Honeymoon

Dream honeymoon?

Plan your honeymoon if you're taking one right away.

DAINTY TIP: If you do not take your honeymoon right away, consider staying a couple nights in your hotel for a mini getaway or drive to a nearby city or cabin for a few days.

^ Health Routine

P hysical F itness

Start an exercise and health routine.

DAINTY TIP: Write up a calendar so you know what day to focus on what.

Beauty Routine

Mental F itness

DO wedding planner

BRIDAL REGI STRY TI PS. . .

1. Registration online can be easy, but in-store is where you will find the most value in the knowledge of associates. It’s also important to be able to feel the quality and see the true colors of the merchandise you’re requesting.

2. Register as a couple and keep your significant other in mind.

3. Be open to the ideas of the associates who help you register. Their experience can lend some valuable insights you may not have originally anticipated for.

4. Don't just plan for the now, plan for the future.

borsheims.com // 800-642-GIFT // customercare@borsheims.com

3 TO 5 MONT H S HOW AR E YO U FEEL ING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

HAPPY

EXCITED

READY

^ Stationery

Choose your wedding stationery and verbiage and get them ordered. Hire a calligrapher if desired.

DAINTY TIP: While evites are becoming more

common, paper invites set an elegant tone. Decide on your stationery's wording based on the theme or style of your wedding day. ie. Casual, religious, black tie, etc.

Invite

R.S.V.P.

P lace Cards

Map of Locations

Program

Table Numbers

^ Wedding Rings Shop for wedding rings.

Ring Budget $

Menu

DO wedding planner S TAT ION ERY D O’ S AND D ON’ TS

F

amily and friends won’t be able to appreciate your hard work unless you announce your wedding and properly invite your guests. Just how you invite them should reflect the two of you as a couple and evoke a certain style (modern, classic, vintage) or a feeling (formal, casual, fun) while providing basic, important information about your wedding day.

STATIONERY DO’S • Think about your overall paper budget and don’t forget day-of items like programs, menus, place cards and thank you notes.

• Carefully proof your stationery. We recommend having a close family member or friend review your wording with you.

Misspellings of names are very common because you aren’t looking for it and your stationer or printer isn’t going to know!

• Plan to order extras since most of the cost of printing is in the setup, meaning reprints can get costly. Last minute additions to your list are often unavoidable. We recommend at least 10 additional sets.

• Thank your guests as well as those people who made your day possible, such as your officiant, attendants, greeters, ushers and vendors. Thank you notes should be mailed within 3 months from your wedding day.

• Mail invitations early when planning a summer or destination wedding.

Standard timing is 6-8 weeks, so mail at the 8-week window or earlier.

STATIONERY DON’TS • Don’t wait until the last minute to order your stationery. This especially applies if you want to use specialty print methods such as engraving, letterpress and foil-stamping as most printers will need 2-3 weeks to produce and assemble.

• Don’t forget the calligrapher! Book early with your calligrapher as they get very busy during wedding season and typically need two or more weeks to work on your order.

• Invite guests to both the ceremony and reception OR just the reception. It is not polite to invite guests to only the ceremony because it says that you do not want to pay for their meal.

• Do not include a wedding registry list on your invitation. Registry information can be listed on your wedding website or provided word-of-mouth by family and friends.

• Don’t forget to have your invitation weighed at the post office! Postage can vary depending on the size and weight of your invitation.

—Diedre Johnson

^ Remaining Wedding Vendors

Make a final selection of remaining wedding vendors (example: wedding transportation)

3 TO 5 MONTHS

Transportation P hone #

^ Attendants Duties

170 R OU G H L Y T H E A V ER A G E

Get together with your attendants and go over their duties.

A M OU NT OF W ED D I NG GUESTS AT MIDWEST W E D D I NG S .

^ Guest List

Finalize the guest list.

^ License Requirements

Check requirements for blood tests and physical exams for obtaining a marriage license in the state where you will be married. Get one if needed.

^ Readings,Host, and Guest Book

Ask friends or family whom you would like to give readings, sing solos, host, or help with guest book.

^ Menu

Finalize wedding menu.

Host and Hostess

Guest Book and Gifts Readers

Cake Cutter

DO wedding planner

S OME THO U G H TS ON WE DDING T R AN S P OR TATION… • • • •

• • • •

Weddings are booked up to a year in advance. It’s not preferred to book out longer than that in case changes occur to the fleet.

Budget is determined by duration of service as well as travel distance for out-of-town transportation.

Fifty percent of your deposit is due at time of reservation with balance due the week of the wedding.

Included in your wedding package (with Stellar Limousine in particular): Red carpet service (weather permitting), toasting flutes, and standing ice bucket (if church/venue allows it). Your driver pours the bride and groom's glasses of chilled champagne prior to their boarding the limo. For limos that don't have built-in glassware, the bride and groom receive glass toasting flutes and their wedding party receives stylish plastic champagne glasses.

Some transportation will work your wedding colors into the provided cocktail napkins in the stemware and rock glasses.

When you book your wedding with some transportation companies, you are eligible for a discount when you book your bachelor and/or bachelorette party with them! Ask when you inquire with them initially.

Plan on bringing only neutral-colored beverages on the limo, because there may be spills! This way, you don't need to worry about accidents showing on your clothing.

If you are taking photos, plan on driving in the limo for about one hour prior to the reception. If no photos, then 2 hours is doable. Keep your guests in mind when planning on drive time between the ceremony and reception.

—Tom Olson

stellarlimousine.com // 605-335-4041 // info@stellarlimousine.com

3 TO 5 MONTHS

^ Rehearsal Dinner

Location

Plan the rehearsal dinner.

Date and Time Food and Drink

^ Finish Registering Finish registering for gifts.

DAINTY TIP: Consider everyday items.

^ Wedding Favors

Order wedding favors if needed.

^ Order Dishes, Tables, and Chairs

If you're not using a coordinator, rent items like dishes, tables, chairs, linens, tents, portable toilets, etc.

Ordered and/or Purchased Dishes

Tents

Tables

Linens

Chairs

Portable Toilets

Napkins

F latware

^ Wedding Party Gifts

Purchase gifts for wedding party and each other (check all when purchased).

Wedding Party Spouse to be

Parents

DO wedding planner OUT D O OR WE DDI NG T I PS . . .

F

ollow the ABC Plan for your outdoor wedding:

•

A. Absolutely perfect day: Plan for warm sunshine, slight breeze, and no precipitation.

•

B. Back-up plan: Think about the what-ifs; rain or wind.

•

C. Contingency: Is there room to move the ceremony and reception indoors?

•

Use battery-operated candles. Even the slightest breeze will extinguish the flame of your votives.

The flameless candles will ensure a warm glow throughout the evening.

•

Plan centerpieces that are low profile and weighted to avoid being blown over.

•

Always have plenty of water available for your guests on those extremely hot summer days.

•

Notify your guests in the invitation that they will be attending an outdoor wedding so they may dress accordingly.

—JoAnn Weller

visitpennytree.com // 605-297-4868 // contact@visitpennytree.com

^ Timeline

Start first draft of the day-of timeline.

8:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 AM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PM 9:30 PM 10:00 PM 10:30 PM

3 TO 5 MONTHS

DO wedding planner G IF T I DEAS FOR YOUR B R I DAL PART Y. . .

T

hroughout the planning process, this is the group that will be there for you when you want to go to the wedding expo downtown, to vent when times get tough, and to plan a bachelor or bachelorette party! Find a nice way to thank them for supporting you during this time.

MAID OF HONOR & BRIDESMAIDS/BRIDESMEN • Most of the time, the Maid of Honor may get a little something more depending on what her role was throughout the planning. It’s thoughtful to take into consideration what they spent for your wedding day (dress, shoes, hotel, gifts) when you consider what would be a good budget for their gifts.

• Jewelry – Necklace, earrings, shoes, bracelet, wristlet, etc. Anything you would want them to maybe use or wear on your wedding day, just make sure it is rewearable.

• Lodging – If you have it in the budget, bunk up your girls to all stay together!

• Spirits – Pick out a lovely bottle of wine or champagne for each.

• Robes – Give fun robes or pajamas to get ready

•

in on the day of your wedding!

Activity – Take your party out to eat. Or maybe you have an adventurous group that would love the chance to experience something new.

BEST MAN & GROOMSMEN/GROOMSWOMEN • Most of the time, the Best Man may get a little something more depending on how involved he has been wrangling the guys to get their stuff done.

• Accessories – Tie, cufflinks, socks, shoes, tie clip, suspenders, etc. Coordinate with the wedding colors and theme on this one.

• Suit – if you have it in the budget, that savings makes being a groomsman so much easier.

• Lodging – Again, if you have it in the budget, bunk up your guys to all stay together!

• Spirits – Pick out craft beer and/or scotch whiskey for everyone.

• Adventure – Consider kayaking or golfing, etc.

FLOWER GIRL & RING BEARER • For the kids, get them something they can play with all weekend or at the wedding itself. Pack a bag full of coloring books, crayons, bubbles, disposable camera, etc. Purchasing their outfits is also a wonderful gesture.

—Kelley Linehan

bayfieldweddings.com // bayfield.org // (715)779-3335 // weddings@bayfield.org

^ Music

3 TO 5 MONTHS

Choose music.

Ceremony Music

Our Entrance

Solos

Reception Entrance

First Dance

Father / Daughter Dance

Mother / Son Dance

Wedding Party

Genres Alternative

Blues

Classical

Dance

Electronic

Folk

Hip Hop / Rap

Indie

Jazz

Latin

New Age

Pop

R&B / Soul

Reggae

Rock

^ Bachelorette

& Bridal Shower.

Send guest lists to hosts of Bachelorette and/or Bridal Shower.

^ Dress Fittings Start dress fittings.

^ Wedding Insurance Consider wedding insurance.

DO wedding planner T IPS ON CHO O S I NG T HE RIGHT MU SIC FOR YO UR CE L E BRAT ION…

•

Understand that different styles should be used to signify and differentiate the vibe from the cocktails to the dinner to the dance. Wedding receptions have typically the largest demographic represented than almost any other type of entertainment function. Familiarity is KEY. We certainly want the music to reflect our personal preferences, but we must bear in mind that we want our guests to connect with music.

•

Choose music that pays homage to those we love. Music has the power to take us back to a beautiful memory. Find some of the songs that were influential to your parents, grandparents, or other family songs that hold special meanings. Music that doesn’t connect is just background noise. Take some time to ask these questions before the wedding during the holidays or family gatherings.

•

On the contrary, Do Not Play lists are songs that we clearly despise. Whether it’s the "Chicken Dance" (deservedly so) or "Sweet Caroline," some songs just don’t work for us, and that’s completely okay.

•

•

Decide on your formal dance songs. We’re here! We’re sharing our first dance and our dance with our father or mother! For years we wondered how this moment would play out. Picking THE song that pays tribute to these relationships is a beautiful way to say “thank you” for all that you’ve done and for loving me.

Create Must Play and Do Not Play lists.

No two wedding receptions are exactly the same, so it should not come as a surprise that the playlists can vary greatly from weekend to weekend. However, there are several “core” songs that get most crowds going and will be sure to pack a dance floor. Must Play lists should be songs that are totally about you and your crew! The songs that we went crazy over in high school and college and take us back to prom night, homecoming, or that road trip with our besties.

Requests. There are some good ones, and some songs that make the DJ cringe. We’ve been asked to play songs about infidelity ("Before He Cheats," "Gunpowder & Lead," etc.) and drug use ("Cocaine," etc.) and guests are dumbfounded when we say no. If the song is appropriate and if the songs fits in with the vibe the couple wants, absolutely we will play it!

—Chris Hintz

pinnacleprodj.com // 605-376-5716 // info@pinnacleprodj.com

4 TO 6 WEEKS HOW AR E YO U FEELING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

HAPPY

EXCITED

READY

^ Must Take List

Create "must take" list for photographer and videographer and discuss with them.

Getting Ready

First Look / Kiss / Dance

Couple

Wedding Party

Family

Reception

Details

Cake / Food

^ Clergy or Officiant.

Meet with wedding clergy or officiant.

DO wedding planner PHOTO G R APHY MISTAKES TO AVOID

P

INTEREST! I have a serious love/hate relationship with Pinterest. I love Pinterest for inspiration and, as a photographer, I think it makes me work harder to be better and to deliver greater portraits when I surround myself with other beautiful images. I hate Pinterest because it builds an expectation that photographs have to be taken in a certain way and poses have to be just so. If you have a good relationship with your photographer and trust that they will deliver beautiful images for you, don’t worry about creating and sending the perfect 500-picture Pinterest board to your photographer.

SCHEDULING: Before your wedding day, walk through your schedule several times and think through how much time you will need to ensure that you will have an enjoyable and relaxing day. Make sure you have enough time to get ready, get a good lunch in, and travel to your picture locations.

BUDGETING: As you are setting your budget, it is very important to set realistic goals. Figure out your priorities for the day and set your budget accordingly and always remember that you get what you pay for. —Jordan Eden

jordanedens.com // 509-628.7464// jordanedensphotography@gmail.com

4 TO 6 WEEKS

^ Mail Wedding Invitations

Mail wedding invitations. Send R.S.V.P. cut-off for three weeks after the postmark (it is polite to include stamps for the return if necessary). For a destination wedding, send the invite up to 3 months in advance.

Make a system to record who sent an RSVP in.

DAINTY TIP: Want to save money on postage?

Set up a wedding e-mail people can respond to.

Invite R . S .V. P. with return postage Map

^ Seating Plan

Make your seating plan and decide how to display it.

5 FT. ROUND TABLE SEATS 8 COMFORTABLY

^ Rehearsal Dinner Invites Mail rehearsal dinner invites physically or electronically.

DO wedding planner LIGH T ON YO UR WE DDING DAY

F

ew things will impact how your photos will turn out more than the quality of light on your wedding day. While you can’t control the weather, there are several ways that you can ensure that your photographer has wonderful light with which to capture your day.

•

Natural light always trumps artificial light.

Natural light will cover you in beautiful, soft, flattering light, while artificial light tends to cast odd colors and unwanted shadows.

•

Try to choose a room to get ready in that is filled with windows and natural light. This lets us turn off the harsh ceiling lights.

•

Consider having your hair and makeup artist come to you. This allows the photographer to fully control the light as well as where you are sitting.

•

Look up when sunset is on your wedding day.

The two hours before then

are a great time for outdoor portraits with that beautiful warm evening light. Already shot your portraits earlier? Just sneak away for 10 minutes! It’ll be worth it!

•

If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, try to avoid scheduling it for mid day when the sun is high and harsh and throws unflattering shadows on people’s faces. Our goal is to have even lighting on everyone.

•

If your ceremony will be indoors, the same rules apply. If possible, find a venue with big windows and find out what you are allowed to change or not.

•

Reception lighting can vary greatly. Lanterns, candles, and string lights are always fun and will look great in photos.

•

Check with your DJ/band to see if they provide lighting as well. Spotlights and strobes can add a lot of excitement and energy to the dance!

—Zach Davis

zachdavisphotography.com/ // 701-690-7789 // hello@zachdavisphotography.com

^ Design & Print

4 TO 6 WEEKS

Compose, design and print ceremony program, table numbers, and menu cards if necessary.

Ceremony Program

Table Numbers

P lace Cards

Menu Cards

^ Menu & Settings

Have a reception menu and wine tasting and view a sample of your complete table setting and the centerpiece from your florist.

^ Legal Documents

Arrange changes to banking information, insurance policies, wills and other legal documents.

^ Formalwear Fittings

Schedule formalwear fittings so groom and groomsmen are fitted.

Wine

EntrĂŠe

Appetizers

Desserts

Centerpiece

Mock Tablescape

4 TO 6 WEEKS

^ Wedding Rehearsal

Confirm date and time of wedding rehearsal with the officiant, rehearsal venue, and the wedding party.

^ Dance Classes

Consider dance classes.

^ Wedding Announcement Prepare and submit wedding announcement for newspaper.

^ Send Event Schedule Send event schedule to vendors if necessary.

^ Wedding Hashtag

Create a personal wedding hashtag for social media.

DAINTY TIP: Put up signs with the hastag around your venues.

#

Officiant

Rehearsal Venue

Wedding Party

Parents and Grandparents

^ Writing Thank

4 TO 6 WEEKS

You N otes

Begin writing thank you notes with your soon-to-be spouse for wedding gifts already received.

^ Gift for the Bride & Groom

Select a gift for your significant other for the wedding day.

^ Skin Care

Get a facial or microdermabrasion.

Location Date and Time

DO wedding planner PE RKS OF HIRING A T RAVE L AGE NT …

•

If something happens with your flight, you can call your travel agent to get you rebooked or rerouted immediately. “It’s easier for us to get a hold of all of these places because we have certain numbers and reps, which is faster than standing in line with over 200 people.”

•

This helps even more if you’re booking a destination wedding. One bride had her wedding venue destroyed completely in a hurricane. “I had a bride call me and said they were booked in Cabo and a hurricane came through and wiped it out. I told them to call the hotel because we didn’t book them. We work with chains so we can easily move you to Puerto Vallarta or to Cancun.

If you don’t use a travel agent, the hotel has your deposit – they don’t care.”

•

They handle your guests for you. “We do all of the guest planning, so they would send us an e-mail format of all the guests and we’ll send out an RSVP to those people and they contact us directly so the bride and groom don’t have to worry about it.”

•

They can book activities for you at a nice rate.

•

Speaking of nice rates, they can help get nice packages. “If you book with a certified agent (for a destination wedding) you get a two-hour free cocktail reception, a spa package, and you also get a honeymoon package with a massage and all that.”

•

They know legal paperwork for different countries. “Each location is different, and we know the legal part of it. For example, in Mexico you have to be there four full business days before you get married, you have to have everything translated from English to Spanish.

You have to have an apostille to show the groom is actually a bachelor, and you have to get blood work when you get down there.”

—Tracy Wilbeck

travelpartners.tv/ // 605-362-6771 // info@travelpartners.tv

2 WEEKS HOW AR E YO U FEEL ING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

HAPPY

EXCITED

^ Teeth Cleaned

Have teeth cleaned and/or get whitened by an oral hygienist (or at-home white strips).

^ Reconfirm Arrangements

Reconfirm all wedding-related arrangements. Let them know who to contact the day of the wedding. Delegate someone to be in charge of handling all calls with vendors for that day.

^ Haircut

Groom gets a haircut.

Location Date and Time

READY

DO wedding planner

F LOWE R FACTS… • • • • • • • •

Six to nine months before the wedding, get a quote from the flower vendor you want to book.

Two to six weeks before the wedding, finalize details and pricing.

In-season flowers are always less expensive (i.e. peonies are only available a couple months out of the year).

Tight on budget? Ask for cost-effective flowers (i.e. hydrangeas are beautiful and large so they take up a lot of the bouquet.

Ask your florist about flowers you’re choosing to ensure they’ll stay (i.e. anemones are pretty but they have a thin petal).

Hit two birds with one stone by using flowers from your pews in the centerpieces at your reception!

Don’t buy vases. Renting will save you money.

Expect to pay around $2,000-$3,000 of your wedding budget on flowers.

—Stacy Schaap

flower-mill.com // 605-274-6080 // wecare@flower-mill.com

^ Trial Run

Have a trial run of wedding day makeup and hair. Bring everything as if it's day-of, including any veils or hairpieces.

2 WEEKS

Trial One Location / Date / Time

DAINTY TIP: Be honest! Stylists want you to be happy!

Trial Two Location / Date / Time

^ Marriage License

Pick up your marriage license with your fiancĂŠ(e).

DAINTY TIP: Take a picture! The "journey"

begins now! Make sure you know who is turning in your marriage liscense to the state.

^ Wedding Rings

Pick up wedding rings from your jeweler.

DAINTY TIP: Wear a fake ring until the big day

to ensure nothing happens to the wedding ring and it stays sparkly.

^ Double Check and Reconfirm

Double check and reconfirm any honeymoon reservations.

^ Final Fitting

Have final fitting of dress and bridesmaid dresses towards the 2 week mark.

DO wedding planner GL AMO UR TI PS BE FORE YO UR WE DDI NG . . .

•

Book a trial before the big day. This way you will be the most relaxed when you're getting ready the day of.

•

If there’s something you don’t love during your trial, tell your artist! They want you to love it, and this is the time to perfect your look.

•

Airbrush makeup is the best for weddings. It has flawless coverage and photographs perfectly.

•

Exfoliate the day before so you have a fresh face for application.

•

Carry a tube of lipstick and/ or lipgloss in your purse for touch ups throughout the day.

—Grace Sproule

gg-glamourgrace.com // 218-779-0608​// grace@gg-glamourgrace.com

WE E K OF WEDDI NG HOW AR E YO U FEELING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

^ Final Guest Count

Give final guest count to wedding planner or venues.

^ Pick Up Men's Attire

Pick up men's attire after final fittings.

^ Pack Overnight Bag

Bring all elements of your attire together and pack overnight bag and bridal emergency kit (don't forget rings and your marriage license.)

DAINTY TIP: Use a checklist!

HAPPY

EXCITED

READY

Items to Pack ITEMS WEDDING DRESS / RECEPTION DRESS VEIL SHOES JEWELRY HAIR ACCESSORIES UNDERGARMENTS SOMETHING OLD SOMETHING NEW SOMETHING BORROWED SOMETHING BLUE RINGS MARRIAGE LICENSE CHANGE OF CLOTHES CHANGE OF SHOES SURVIVAL KIT PHONE VOWS / LETTERS TO EACH OTHER LIST OF VENDORS & CONCTACT INFORMATION TIMELINE DAY-AFTER WEDDING OUTFIT PAJAMAS HYGIENE ITEMS GIFTS FOR PARENTS & SIGNIFIC ANT OTHER BOUQUET FOR THE TOSS GARTER

PACKED

WEEK OF WEDDING

Bridal Survival Kit ITEM

A L COH OL A SPIR IN & OT H ER MEDIC INE B A N D-A IDS BOT T L E OF WAT ER BR EAT H M IN T S/ SPRAY B A BY POW DER BUG SPR AY C A SH CH A L K (TO COV ER U P ANY LAS T- MINU TE S MU DGES O R S ME ARS ) CL EA R N A IL POL IS H ( IF YO U HAVE A RU N IN YO U R TIGHTS) COMB/ BRUSH COR SAG E PINS DENTA L FL OSS/ TO OTHPIC KS DEODOR A N T EY EDROPS EXT R A EA R R IN G B AC KS EXT R A PA IR OF BLAC K S O C KS FO R GRO O M/GRO O MS MEN FIR ST A ID K IT H A IR PINS/ PONY TAIL HO LDER H A IR SPR AY H A N D TOW EL ET T E S H EM OR W H IT E DUC K TAPE L IN T ROL L ER L OT ION MA K EUP (FOR TOU C H- U PS ) MAT CH ES / L IG H T E R ( BU RN THE EDGES O F FRAYED RIB B O N S ) MINI SEW IN G K IT MIR ROR NA IL POL ISH TOUCH- U P / FILE / C LIPPER OIL A BSOR BIN G SHEETS PEN & PA PER PER FUM E PH ONE CH A R G ER Q-T IPS SA FET Y PINS SA FET Y R A ZOR SCOT CH TA PE SM A L L FOL DING SC IS S O RS SN ACK S STA IN R EMOV ER P EN STAT IC-CL IN G SPRAY ST R AW S SUNSCR EEN SUPER G L UE TA MPON S/MINI PADS T ISSUES TOOT H BRUSH /TOOTH PAS TE T W EEZER S

DO I NE E D I T?

IT 'S PAC K E D !

WEEK OF WEDDING

^ Manicure and Pedicure Get a manicure and pedicure.

Location Date and Time

^ Final List &Payments

Gather final list and payments for checks and balances due to wedding vendors.

^ Write Vows

Write vows if writing personal vows to one another.

^ Delegate Help

Delegate any help for returning items after the wedding and any help you need with setup and teardown.

Set Up

Runners

Tear Down

Gifts /GuestBook

Food and Drink

Lighting

DĂŠcor

Vehicles

Purses

Marriage Liscense

Linens

Flatwear

WEEK OF WEDDING

^ Finaliza the Timeline

Finish the timeline. Make sure to give it to your vendors, wedding coordinator, and to your wedding party. The more people who have it, the more likely your day will stay on track.

^ Spa Day

Have a spa day with family, friends or solo to relax.

Location Date and Time

^ Welcome Bags

Bring welcome bags to hotels for out-oftown guests and include any itinerary that will be helpful.

Attend Wedding ^ Rehearsal

Attend wedding rehearsal and dinner DAINTY TIP: Don't forget gifts for the bridal

party, and also give them a detailed timeline of the rest of the weekend.

^ Good Sleep

Get a good sleep before the wedding.

Bride is sleeping at Groom is sleeping at

WEEK OF WEDDING

The Final Timeline of Events 8:00 AM 8:30 AM 9:00 AM 9:30 AM 10:00 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 AM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PM 9:30 PM 10:00 PM 10:30 PM

DAY OF WEDDI NG HOW AR E YO U FEELING ?

BRIDEZILLA STRESSED NERVOUS

^ Hair &Makeup Have hair and makeup done.

HAPPY

EXCITED

READY

Bride Time

Stylist

DAINTY TIP: Try to be 10 minutes early to delegate bridal party.

Bridesmaid Time

Bridesmaid Time

Bridesmaid Time

Bridesmaid Time

Maid/Matron of Honor Stylist

Time

Stylist

Mother of Bride Stylist

Time

Stylist

Mother of Groom Stylist

Time

Stylist

Flower Girls Stylist

Time

Stylist

DO wedding planner WH E N TO D O WHAT FOR BE AU T Y. . .

•

HIRE A BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL: As soon as you get your ring, make sure your favorite pro is available.

Need a pro? Ask your best friends, do a little online research, but be sure they have a state-issued cosmetology license. This will ensure that they know the strict sanitation rules to keep you safe.

•

FACIAL WAXING/ EYEBROW SHAPING: No less than a week before your wedding. Makeup adheres better to skin that has had a little time to recover from waxing. Your professional can always tweeze any random hair that makes an appearance. Your brows can make a big difference in your total look.

•

HAIRCUT AND COLOR: Your hair grows about 1/2" a month. Keep this in mind if you want your highlights to look fresh. Ombre or balayage have a more gentle outgrowth and have a lesser amount of maintenance than highlights to your scalp. Discuss your bridal look with your hairstylist so you can make appointments well in advance.

• FACIALS: Do not - I repeat - do not try a new facial or skincare procedure the week of your wedding. It's best to have these completed a couple of weeks or so before your big day, just in case you were to have a reaction. And don't be tempted to pick at your skin. You may cause damage under the skin that could lead to more problems. Consult a pro if you have questions or concerns.

• GROOM/GROOMSMEN HAIR CUTS: A week or so before the big day is good. A little 'lived in' look is sometimes better than a fresh cut.

• HAIR AND MAKEUP TRIAL: I like to recommend having your trial the same day as a dress fitting, if possible. That way, you can see your whole look all together. Not possible? Then have it a couple of weeks prior to the big day, after you've made any hairstyle/ color changes you had planned.

• NAIL APPOINTMENTS: A few days before your wedding. The shellac manicure lasts longer than traditional polish and can also be done on your toes. You may want to consider the shellac pedi for a beach wedding. Sand can be really hard on a pedi!

—Kat Christensen

beautybykat.com // 605-321-1177 // beautyroomkat@yahoo.com

^ Cell Phone Near

Keep cell phone near and/or delegate someone to answer your phone for any questions or concerns.

^ Get Ready

Get dressed and get ready with mother and bridesmaids.

^ Gifts &Personal Notes

Bride and groom have bridal party deliver wedding gifts and personal notes to each other.

^ Rehearse Vows

Review and rehearse vows.

^ Photograph Formals

Shoot first look, wedding party, and formals with the family and friends.

^ Arrive

Arrive to ceremony on time.

^ Get Married Smile, you're married.

DAY OF WEDDING

... is in charge of my phone

DAY OF WEDDING

^ Arrive

Arrive to reception on time.

^ Stick to Timeline

Honor the timeline to keep the reception moving. You want to keep your guests busy.

^ Dances & Speeches

Get your dances and speeches done first.

Then you can enjoy the rest of the night.

DAINTY TIP: Keep the speeches short and

sweet. Delegate who will give the speeches.

Typically, the maid of honor and best man speak.

^ Thank Everyone

Do the rounds at the reception and make sure you thank everyone for being there.

^ Be in the Moment

Be in the moment — it goes by fast!

AF T E R T H E WEDDI NG HOW AR E YO U FEEL ING ?

EXHAUSTED RELAXED STRESS FREE LOVED BLISS

^ Open Gifts Together

Open gifts together or with family and friends the next day. Delegate someone to write down gifts and names for thank you notes.

^ Thank Your Parents

Before you leave or after you get back from your honeymoon, write a thank you note to your parents and possibly send them a gift, like flowers.

^ Honeymoon

Go on your honeymoon!

HAPPY WIFE HAPPY LIFE

^ Write Thank You Notes

Write remainder of thank you notes promptly. Three months is the very latest.

^ Finish Registry & Exchange

Finish registry and exchange any duplicates or unwanted gifts.

^ Wedding Dress Cleaned Have wedding dress cleaned and/or preserved by a reputable company.

^ Change Your Last Name

Make sure to start this process as soon as possible!

^ Keep In Touch

Keep in touch with photography and/or videographer for albums, DVDs, etc.

^ Enjoy

Enjoy being married!

I have received...

P hotos

Etc.

Video

Other

DAINT Y VEN D ORS PHOTO G R APH ERS

Madeline Bergeson L'atelier Couture Bridal Boutique (612) 367-8120 // info@lateliercouturebridal.com www.lateliercouturebridal.com

Minneapolis, MN

Sadie Gardner Sadies Couture Floral & Event Styling (701) 317-3255 // info@sadiesfloralnd. www.sadiesfloralnd.com

Grand Forks, ND

Zach Davis

Zach Davis Photography (701) 690-7789// hello@zachdavisphotography.com zachdavisphotography.com

Fargo, ND

Jack Glasser

Ashley Dedin AENDEE (701) 261-8816 // aendeehandmade@gmail.com aendee.com

Fargo, ND

Sarah Hardie

Glasser Images

Sarah Hadie Photography

(701) 250-2190 // jack@glasserimages.com glasserimages.com

(701) 640-9286 // sarahhardiephotography@gmail.com sarahhardiephotography.com

Bismark, ND

Farmount, ND

Preston Johnson

Sarah Maag

Grassfire Studios

Hilton Garden-Inn Downtown

(612) 619-1128 // preston@grassfirestudios.com grassfirestudios.com

(605) 444-4700 // facebook.com/ HiltonGardenInnSiouxFallsDowntown

Fargo, ND

Sioux Falls, SD

Grace Sproule

JoAnn Weller

Glamour Grace (218) 779-0608​// grace@gg-glamourgrace.com www.gg-glamourgrace.com

Minneapolis, MN

Penny Tree Events

(605) 360-5414 // contact@visitpennytree.com visitpennytree.com

Parker, SD

Stacy Schaap The Flower Mill (605) 274-6080 // wecare@flower-mill.com flower-mill.com

Sioux Falls, SD

Tracy Wilbeck Travel Partners (605) 362-6771 // tracyw@travelpartners.tv www.travelpartners.tv

Sioux Falls, SD

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DO credits Cover

Jessican Simons Photography, Nylonsaddle Photography, Dainty Obsessions, and Elizabeth Lucille Photography

Table of Contents

Nylonsaddle Photography, Emily Swan Photography, Laura Ivanova

[from left to right]

Photography, Jessica Simons Photography, Dainty Obsessions, and Manstrom Photography

2

Dainty Obsessions

3

Dan Thorson Photography

4

Dainty Obsessions

8

Lindsay Herbst Photography

9

Sarah Hardie Photography

11

Glasser Images

19

Sadies Flora Couture & Event Styling | Katies Lewis Photography & Natalie Champa Jennings Photography

21

Washington Pavilion

23

Grassfire Studios

24

Emily Steffen Photography

25

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Sioux Falls

27

L'atelier Couture Bridal | Liz Banfield Photography

29

AENDEE | Manstrom Photography

32

Emily Swan Photography

33

Dainty Obsessions

35

Stellar Limousine

37

Penny Tree Events | Baya Rae Photography

39

Bayfield Weddings | On3 Wedding Photography

41

Pinnacle Productions

42

Nylonsaddle Photography

43

Jordan Eden Photography

45

Zach Davis Photography

49

Travel Partners

50

Fate & Love Photography

51

Dainty Obsessions

52

Glamour Grace | Natalie Champa Jennings Photography

53

Nylonsaddle Photography

60

Laura Ivanova Photography

61

The Photography Shoppe

65

Jeff Sampson Photography