Weddings
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Indianapolis
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Planning a wedding can be stressful so we strive to create resources for local brides that are easy to use. This free magazine is a helpful resource to assist you in planning all the details of your wedding celebration. With a simple listing of services, we encourage you to contact the different vendors to find the perfect one for you! Be sure to let them know where you found them. Please visit us on-line @ IndianapolisWeddingBlog.com You'll find a lot of creative wedding ideas, wedding vendor highlights, upcoming bridals shows, and a brand new forum for local brides. Publishers Ryan & Andrea Crozier Design Dan Youmans Chelsea van der Meer Photos Amanda Wilcher Contributor Melissa Mayntz For advertising information: info@IndianapolisWeddingBlog.com IndianapolisWeddingBlog.com
Š 2009 Tiny Man LLC. Reproduction of copy or artwork is strictly prohibited. Ad content is not the responsibility of Indianapolis Wedding Magazine. Printed in Indianapolis, IN.
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A local website to help you plan your Indianapolis wedding.
• Upcoming Bridal Shows • Budget Saving Tips • Unique Wedding Ideas • Local Bridal Forum • Wedding Vendor Highlights • Wedding Contests • Weekly Email Updates
www.IndianapolisWeddingBlog.com 1
Indoors or Outdoors: Choosing Your Wedding Venue W
here your wedding takes place is a monumental decision in the wedding planning, and deciding whether an indoor or outdoor venue is right for your celebration can be tricky. Couples who know what questions to ask at the venue and how to coordinate with vendors to work with an indoor or outdoor site can be prepared for the wedding of their dreams no matter where it is located.
Couples considering outdoor venues should be sure to ask…
An indoor venue is perfect for seasons of unpredictable weather or couples who may have seasonal allergies, while an outdoor venue can be lighthearted and naturally beautiful without extra embellishments. Regardless of whether the wedding and reception will be indoors or outdoors, however, couples must consider the following items when choosing a venue:
GG Are there indoor changing facilities available for the bridal party?
Parking availability Guest capacity Restroom availability Lighting options Decoration restrictions Exclusive vendor requirements Both indoor and outdoor locations may easily meet the basic requirements for your event. Each type of venue has specific considerations, however, that should also be studied before choosing a location. For indoor venues, consider… GG Are there gardens, terraces, or other scenic locations for outdoor photos? GG Is there plenty of natural light available at the desired location? GG How many weddings are held at the facility on one day? GG Can existing artwork or decorations be modified to suit the wedding colors or theme?
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GG Is there an alternate indoor location nearby in case of inclement weather? GG What arrangements are made to ensure the area is clean and groomed before the wedding? GG How isolated is the area from public view, including traffic and pedestrians?
More than just the venue itself must be considered when deciding on an indoor or outdoor celebration. Couples who consult with their wedding vendors before finalizing a venue choice can be sure to have a lovely wedding with the exceptional services they desire. Venue-related questions to ask your vendors include… GG Is the area lit appropriately for the wedding p hotos at the right time of day? GG Will we be able to use the area before and after the ceremony for additional pictures? GG What power needs do you have for serving stations or cooking? GG Can tables and chairs be set up appropriately in the desired location? GG If the wedding is outdoors, can the food be protected from insects? GG Are there types of blooms we should avoid due to climatic concerns? GG Can your equipment provide the proper sound and acoustic quality for the location? By understanding the different considerations between indoor and outdoor wedding venues, couples can coordinate their dream wedding location with their vendors for a worry-free, elegant affair.
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How to Choose
yourVendors
A
wedding is a celebration of a couple’s love, but it takes far more than two people to engineer a wedding. Choosing the right vendors can make your plans much easier to carry out. But who are those right vendors? Even the simplest wedding may use multiple services, and it is crucial that you be able to trust your vendors to help plan your dream day. There are certain considerations you must make when choosing vendors. The photographer who will capture the moments of your day, the musicians who will set the mood, the florist who will provide the bouquets and centerpieces, and the baker who will sweeten the event with the wedding cake are all vitally important to a smooth, worry-free wedding. By knowing how to choose these important vendors, a couple can ensure their event will be their dream day in every way. No matter what vendor you are choosing, basic factors must be considered, including… GG Budget: Discuss the scope of your wedding with each vendor and decide if their services are financially viable for your event. Include setup fees, taxes, and possible tips when calculating a total. GG Personality: In the months leading up to your wedding, you will be working closely with your vendors to plan the most intimate details of your celebration. You will be more comfortable working with someone whom you can trust, and you will want to be sure there are no personality conflicts between you and the vendors you hire. GG Experience: While the scope of a vendor’s experience is not necessarily the most important factor in determining whether or not they are right for your event, you will want to be sure they are familiar with how to arrange services for weddings similar to yours. One of the best ways to determine this is to review each vendor’s portfolio of weddings they have arranged so you can get an idea of their style and the services they can provide. GG Flexibility: You want to be able to trust your vendor’s judgment, but at the same time they must be willing to incorporate your wishes throughout the planning. Every bride and groom wants to personalize their celebration, and a good vendor to work with will be able to arrange that personalization while still creating a coordinated, stylish event. GG Contract: Before agreeing to work with any vendor, you must review their contract carefully. Pay special attention to terms of payment and clauses covering changes in plans, cancellations, disputes, and deadlines. While these basic considerations apply to every vendor you work with, the principal vendors arranging your event require extra consideration so you can make the best choice for your wedding services.
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Photographer
Your wedding day will fly by, and your wedding pictures will help you recall the momentous events of the day as well as the special little moments for many happy anniversaries. Questions to ask your photographer to ensure those pictures capture the essence of your wedding include: What photographic style do you use for weddings: formal, candid, or a journalistic style? Will the wedding photos be available to view online, or are digital copies available? Will the photography package include formal bridal portraits or engagement pictures? How long will it take to process the photos after the wedding?
Musicians
Whether you choose a live band, a solo musician, or a DJ, they will be responsible for all aspects of your wedding music, from the introduction and processional to the recessional, first dance, cake-cutting song, and the wedding party dance numbers. A good musician not only is talented, but is also able to use music to help set the romantic and celebratory mood for your wedding day, and asking the right questions will ensure it is the mood you want. What instruments or arrangements can they provide? What genres of music are they most familiar and comfortable with performing? Are they willing to accommodate a do-not-play list? Can they provide announcements during the evening in order to keep the guests involved?
Florist
The flowers at your wedding will be the most noticeable decorations at both the ceremony and the reception. To be sure they are as stylish and beautiful as you hope they will be, be sure to ask your prospective florist… Are they willing to work with both real and silk flowers, if necessary? Do they get their flowers from local or regional growers? What types of arrangements do they specialize in? Can they match the wedding colors with your preferred blooms?
Baker
The wedding cake is the most memorable treat at the wedding, and that first taste of married life should be a delicious one. Be sure to ask your baker… What cake flavors and filling types can they provide? Are they willing to experiment with unique flavor requests? Can they create a cake with different flavors for each tier if desired? Can their recipes accommodate diabetic, gluten-free, or other special dietary requirements? What types of cake designs can they create, including unique details? What additional services, such as delivery, setup, and cutting, can be included? Asking detailed questions can help you choose the best service providers for your special day. If you feel confident in your vendors, you will be able to plan a wedding with the professional help you need to ensure it is as beautiful as you’ve always dreamed. — Melissa Mayntz
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B E AU T Y
Beauty Tip
A Do Hair Design
Ph: 317.205.9850 Web: adohairdesign.com
Champagne & Lipstick
Ph: 317.691.6045 Web: champagneandlipstick.com
Pamper yourself... Take the morning to relax at a day spa before having your hair & makeup done.
EyeMAX by Kiralee
Ph: 317.902.7091 Web: eyemaxmakeup.com
Glam, etc.
Ph: 317.862.3970 Web: glametc.com
Indy Boot Camps
Ph: 317.289.1219 Web: indybootcamps.com
- from the IWB
Leanna's Private Studio
Ph: 317.889.8584 Web: lpsmakeup.com
Lori Rae - Hairstyling and Makeup Artistry
Beauty Tip
Ph: 317.250.1385 Web: lori-rae.com
Robert’s Salon & Day Spa
Ph: 317.881.8207 Web: robertssalonandspa.com
Invest in a professional makeup artist. You'll stay looking fresh for hours and your pictures will look great!
- from the IWB 8
The Makeup Studio
Ph: 317.473.3163 Web: daniellesmakeupstudio.com
True Colors
Ph: 317.716.5797 Web: truecolorsindy.com
B R I DA L SHOP S
A Bride's Dream
Ph: 317.209.8211 Web: a-brides-dream.net Addr: 9719 E. U.S. Highway 36, Suite G, Avon, IN 46123
Dress Tip
A Step Above Bridal
Ph: 317.846.3801 Web: astepabovebridal.net Addr: 480 E. Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032
Bliss Boutique
Ph: 317.852.5966 Web: bliss-boutique.com Addr: 1521 N. Green Street, Suite D, Brownsburg, IN 46112
Bridal Outlet
Ph: 317.842.8868 Web: bridaloutlet.net Addr: 6374 E. 82nd Street, Indpls, IN 46250
Bridesmaid Dresses... You pick the color, but give them the freedom to choose their own style.
Bridal Superstore
Ph: 317.849.9980 Web: posiepatchbridalsuperstores.com Addr: 8418 Castleton Corner Drive, Indpls, IN 46250
Cc.elaine Bridal Studio
- from the IWB
Ph: 317-924-2442 Web: ccelaine.com Addr: 2414 N. Delaware Street, Indpls, IN 46205
J'Ann & Co.
Ph: 317.776.4088 Web: j-ann-co.com Addr: 930 Logan Street, Noblesville, IN 46060
Dress Tip
Nancy's Bridal Boutique
Ph: 317.842.2080 Web: nancysbridalboutique.com Addr: 3961 E. 82nd Street, Indpls, IN 46240
Something Old - Something New Bridal Studio Ph: 765.778.1800 Web: sosnbridalstudio.com Addr: 138 W. State Street, Pendleton, IN 46064
Sophia’s Bridal
Ph: 317.882.1244 Web: sophiasbridalandtux.com Addr: 7015 U.S. 31 South, Indpls, IN 46227
Wedding Dress... Look for a dress that will not require too many alterations. You'll save time & $$$!
- from the IWB 9
CAKES
Cake Tip
A Little Bite of Heaven
Ph: 317.272.9100 Web: alittlebiteofheaven.com
Amazing Cakes of Indy
Ph: 317.782.0660 Web: amazingcakesofindy.com
Add a personal touch to your cake. Use an antique or family heirloom as your cake topper.
Brenda's Cakes
Ph: 317.244.1241 Web: brendascakes.com
Cake Connection
Ph: 317.745.6750 Web: yourcakeconnection.com
Cater It Simple
Ph: 317.796.6046 Web: cateritsimple.com
- from the IWB
Cake Tip
Cretia Cakes
Ph: 317.632.3554 Web: cretiacakes.com
Heavenly Sweets
Ph: 317.770.9399 Web: heavenlysweetscakes.com
Holy Cow, Cupcakes!
Ph: 317.571.1500 Web: holycowcupcakes.com
Break tradition and eat your cake before your one year anniversary.
Indy Cakes
Trust us... it's not good after one year in the freezer.
Ph: 765.432.0665 Web: simplisticsweets.com
- from the IWB 10
Ph: 317.840.1562 Web: indycakes.com
Simplistic Sweets
C AT E R I N G
Cater It Simple
Ph: 317.796.6046 Web: cateritsimple.com
Hoaglin Fine Catering
Ph: 317.924.3389 Web: hoaglinfinecatering.com
Indy Anna's Catering
Ph: 317.632.2662 Web: indyanna.com
Kahn's Catering
Ph: 317.577.3663 Web: kahnskatering.com
Malone's Catering
Ph: 317.248.4600 Web: malonescatering.net
MBP Distinctive Catering
Ph: 317.636.4444 Web: mbpcatering.com
Pipers Catering
Ph: 317.888.7667 Web: piperscatering.com
Caterer Tip
Stone Creek Catering
Ph: 317.272.6950 Web: stonecreekdining.com
Thomas Caterers of Distinction
Celebrate your culture.
Venture Catering
Have styles of food that represent the two of you and your family heritage.
Ph: 317.542.8333 Web: thomascaterers.com
Ph: 317.884.1940 Web: venturecatering.com
- from the IWB 11
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E V E N T C O O R D I NAT O R S
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Taking care of all the details while you enjoy your special day.
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www.aprilfostereven ts. c o m
April Foster Events
Ph: 317.695.6274 Web: aprilfosterevents.com
Bustle Event Design
Ph: 317.730.3675 Web: bustleeventdesign.com
Circle City Planners
Ph: 317.770.4321 Web: circlecityplanners.com
Eventfull Planning
Ph: 317.475.0757 Web: eventfullplanning.net
E-vents: A Wedding Planning Boutique Ph: 317.797.2416 Web: e-ventswedding.com
Fashion & Custom Creations
Ph: 317.862.6931 Web: f-c-c-i.com
Coordinator Tip
Imperial Event Planning
Ph: 317.331.6097 Web: imperialplanning.com
K Sherrie & Co.
Ph: 800.409.KSCo Web: ksherrieco.com
Investing in a wedding coordinator can not only save you time and stress... It can save you money! They often know of ways to cut costs.
- from the IWB 12
Kim King Smith Events
Ph: 317.512.0172 Web: kimkingsmithevents.com
Setting the Mood
Ph: 317.224.7297 Web: settingthemood.biz
FA C I L I T I E S
Community Life Center
Ph: 317.396.3703 Web: clcindy.com Addr: 10612 E. Washington Street, Indpls, IN 46229
Facility Tip
The Hawthorns Golf & Country Club
Ph: 317.845.9100 Web: hawthornscountryclub.com Addr: 12255 Club Point, Fishers, IN 46037
Indianapolis Zoo
Ph: 317.630.2008 Web: indianapoliszoo.com Addr: 1200 W. Washington Street, Indpls, IN 46222
Indy West Conference Center
Ph: 317.248.4660 Web: malonescatering.net Addr: 402 N. High School Road, Indpls, IN 46214
Mavris Arts & Event Center
Ph: 317.917.9999 Web: mavris.net Addr: 121 S. East Street, Indpls, IN 46202
Montage at Allison Pointe
Ph: 317.577.3663 Web: themontage.info Addr: 8580 Allison Pointe Blvd., Indpls, IN 46250
Music Mill
It's good to be flexible on your wedding date. Many weddings are now taking place on Fridays & Sundays. It's a great way to save some extra money!
- from the IWB
Facility Tip
Ph: 317.841.1850 Web: themusicmillvenue.com Addr: 3720 E. 82nd Street, Indpls, IN 46240
Oak Hill Mansion
Ph: 317.843.9850 Web: oakhillmansion.com Addr: 5801 E. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46033 Serendipity @ Metropolis Ph: 317.837.8767 Web: serendipityllc.net Addr: 2499 Futura Park Way, Suite 205, Plainfield, IN 46168
The Terrace at Market Tower
Ph: 317.348.0006 Web: terraceamt.com Addr: 10 W. Market Street, Suite 300, Indpls, IN 46204
Be sure to ask your facility contact about the best weddings & ceremonies at their venue. You'll get lots of great ideas to incorporate into your own day. - from the IWB 13
FLORISTS
Flower Tip
BoKay Florist
Ph: 317.253.2323 Web: bokayindy.com
Enflora Ask your florist for suggestions on flower choices. They will know what is in season and what will work well with your venue.
- from the IWB
Flower Tip
Ph: 317.913.9300 Web: enflora.com
Flowered Occasions
Ph: 317.839.7331 Web: floweredoccasions.com
Flowers by Melissa
Ph: 317.443.0481 Web: flowersbymelissa.biz
Indy Floral Design
Ph: 317.847.7195 Web: indyfloraldesign.com
Julie's Flowers of Geist
Ph: 317.595.1026 Web: juliesflowers.com
The Painted Daisy
Ph: 317.570.4598 Web: painteddaisy.com
Posh Petals
Ph: 317.923.6000 Web: poshpetals.org
Search online for color inspirations. You'll find a great mix of creative colors. Google the term.. "Inspiration Boards"
- from the IWB 14
Royal Creations
Ph: 317.257.5540 Web: byroyalcreations.com
Wedding Flowers Design Studio
Ph: 317.813.8699 Web: weddingflowersdesignstudio.com
MUSIC
AMS Entertainment
Ph: 317.578.3548 Web: amsindiana.com
Brian Whitis
Ph: 317.718.9999 Web: djbrianwhitis.com
Cocktail Sax Jazz Band
Ph: 317.514.7285 Web: cocktailsax.com
Cool Chilies Band
Ph: 317.490.5495 Web: coolchilies.com
Elite Beat DJ Service
Ph: 317.674.6890 Web: elitebeatdj.com
First Impression Band
Ph: 317.598.1151 Web: firstimpressionband.com
J Ryan Entertainment
Ph: 317.489.0260 Web: jryanentertainment.com
Jim Cerone
Ph: 317.845.0749 Web: jimcerone.com
theSimpleDJ
Ph: 317.313.4240 Web: thesimpledj.com
Sunny Moon
Ph: 317.776.3666 Web: sunnymoondj.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY
Amanda Wilcher
Ph: 317.985.2014 Web: amandawilcher.com
BDPPhoto
Ph: 317.727.7799 Web: bdpphoto.com
Erin Hession Photography
Ph: 317.382.5264 Web: erinhessionphotography.com
Invention Pictures
Ph: 317.663.0625 Web: inventionpictures.com
J. Scott Photography
Ph: 317.340.6783 Web: jscottphotography.com
Life’s Path Photography
Ph: 317.450.1261 Web: lifespathphotography.com
Rogers Photography
Ph: 317.918.3863 Web: rodgersfoto.com
Rogue Art Photography
Ph: 317.446.7174 Web: rogueartphotography.com
Sean Molin | Photographer
Ph: 317.402.7762 Web: seanmolin.com
Townsend Schnabel Photography
Ph: 317.786.4388 Web: schnabelphoto.com
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R E N TA L S
A Classic Party Rental
Ph: 317.251.7368 Web: aclassicpartyrental.com
Ace Party Rental
Ph: 317.872.8368 Web: acepartyandtents.com
AMS Entertainment & Audio/Visual Ph: 317.578.3548 Web: amsindiana.com
Chocolat Fountains
Ph: 317.575.0752 Web: chocolatfountains.com
Evans Audio Visual
Ph: 317.889.6969 Web: evansav.com
Indy Chair Covers
Ph: 260.403.0997 Web: indychaircovers.com
Indy Event Lights
Ph: 317.362.9928 Web: indyeventlights.com
Rental Tip
Indy Photo Booth
Ph: 317.508.4508 Web: indyphotobooths.com
Party Time Rental
Ph: 317.844.5178 Web: ptrinc.com
theSimpleSlideshow
Ph: 317.313.4240 Web: thesimpleslideshow.com
When renting equipment ask for any needed instructions. Get an emergency phone number and keep a copy of the contract for record.
- from the IWB 17
NearlyHitched.com
S TAT I O N E RY
Fun, modern and affordable wedding materials! Customized and pre-designed materials available. • save-the-dates • wedding invitations • RSVP cards
• wedding programs • direction cards • thank you cards
nearly HITCHED.com
812.432.5236
Work one-on-one with the designer personally creating your materials! Card Ink
Ph: 317.733.9301 Web: cardink.net
Dragonfly Wedding Designs
Ph: 317.722.0748 Web: dragonflyweddingdesigns.com
Nearly Hitched
Ph: 812.432.5236 Web: nearlyhitched.com
Oliver’s Twist
Ph: 317.569.8420 Web: oliverstwistllc.com
Paper by Appointment
Ph: 317.436.1311 Web: paperbyappointment.com
Pink Poppy Ink
Ph: 317.289.4437 Web: pinkpoppyink.com
Stationery Tip
Truly Yours Custom Correspondence
Ph: 317.442.4729 Web: trulyyourscustom.com
Westwood Paper Company Consider using recycled paper for all your invitations. Also, encourage guests to RSVP online by offering a free download of your engagement photo. - from the IWB 18
Ph: 317.843.1212 Web: westwoodpaper.com
T R AV E L
Advanced Limousines
Ph: 317.716.1201 Web: 317limousines.com
Honeymoon Tip
Antique Limousine
Ph: 317.417.7783 Web: antiquelimoofindy.com
Beach Bum Vacation
Ph: 317.577.7775 Web: beachbumvacation.com
Carey Indiana
Ph: 317.241.2522 Web: careyindiana.com
Consider doing a "honeymoon tour" Instead of staying in one place, consider traveling to different cities every few days.
Dream Limousine
Ph: 317.841.8766 Web: dreamlimo.com
Five Star Limousine
Ph: 317.484.9880 Web: 5starindy.com
Four Seasons Travel
Ph: 317.535.0060 Web: fourseasonstravelinc.com
- from the IWB
Limo Tip
Hoosier Connection Limousine
Ph: 317.359.5466 Web: hoosierconnectionlimo.com
Obsidian Limousines
Ph: 317.413.6073 Web: obsidianlimos.com
Travel Leaders Indy
Ph: 317.913.3300 Web: carlsontravel.com/indy
Many times there is a minimum amount of time for a limo rental. Fully utilize it by having the limo take your grandparents home early from the reception. - from the IWB 19
VIDEOGRAPHY
Invention Pictures
Ph: 317.663.0625 Web: inventionpictures.com
Cardinal Studios
Ph: 317.348.6882 Web: cardinalstudios.com
Green Sky Media
Ph: 317.814.6156 Web: greenskymedia.com
IndyVisual
Ph: 317.598.4336 Web: indyvisual.com
Movietyme Video Productions
Ph: 317.595.8811 Web: videomvp.com
Cherished Video Memories
Ph: 317.435.3679 Web: cherishedvideomemories.com
Video Tip
Northernlight Filmworks
Ph: 317.605.9177 Web: northernlightfilmworks.com
Kaiser Productions Be sure to ask your videographer if they can provide microphones to record the vows. Recording the toasts can add a special touch to your wedding video. - from the IWB 20
Ph: 765.720.5747 Web: jetkaiser.com
Roger Muller Videography
Ph: 317.846.5782 Web: rogermullervideography.com
Focus Right Productions
Ph: 317.714.7868 Web: focusrightproductions.com
Getting in Shape
for Your Wedding Day
Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, and it’s easy to get in shape to show off your wedding day figure. Cardiovascular and aerobic exercises are best for burning fat and generally toning up for all brides. If you have a strapless wedding dress you may want to consider some light weight lifting to tone up your arms, chest, and shoulders, while toning your hips, thighs, and rear will ensure that your skirt fits and flows smoothly. Don’t forget some endurance training as well so you will have the energy to dance your wedding night away! At the same time, it takes more than exercise to look fit and flawless for your wedding. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin nourished and your body hydrated, and be sure to eat a healthy diet for a good complexion and plenty of energy to deal with all your wedding planning duties. Taking regular multivitamins can help you balance your nutrition, and visiting your doctor for a regular checkup and physical before your wedding date will ensure you are a fabulously fit bride. hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Simple Exercise - Triceps Extensions: 1. Place feet on band (both feet for more resistance; one foot for less resistance). 2. Bring band up behind head, remembering to keep elbows in close to your ears. 3. Extend band straight up over your head squeezing your tricep at the top. 4. Repeat steps 2-3. Do 10-12 reps.
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8
things you don’t want to forget on your
Wedding Day
A
wedding takes weeks or months to plan and hundreds of small details are painstakingly coordinated to create a romantic, elegant affair that will lead to many happy anniversaries. In the last minute rush of finalizing plans and dealing with wedding day jitters, however, it is easy to overlook some small details that can make a big difference in your special day. Remember these eight things, and you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free, fantastic day. 1. Legal Documents Be sure to have the marriage license, blood test paperwork, and other legal papers available to ensure the wedding is official. Other paperwork that can also come in handy is drivers’ licenses, birth certificates, and copies of the telephone numbers for all the vendors and bridal party members in case of delays or emergencies. 2. Vows Many couples personalize their wedding ceremonies with heartfelt, handwritten vows. While the officiant may have needed to preview these vows to ensure they are suitable for the ceremony, that initial copy of these special words may have been misplaced. Bring along an additional copy of the vows, clearly written and with print or type large enough to be easily read. 3. Vendor Tips While tips are not required for wedding vendors, gratuities are greatly appreciated for outstanding service. Place tips for each vendor in separate envelopes, clearly marked with the individual’s name and the service they’re providing. If desired, distribute those tips as the vendors leave or at the conclusion of the festivities, or appoint a trusted family member or bridal party member to ensure the tips get to the right individuals. 4. Emergency Kit Small mishaps can add up to big trouble on your wedding day if you aren’t prepared to cope with them. Assemble an emergency kit with necessary items such as aspirin, extra lip gloss, a needle and thread matching the wedding colors, small bandages, safety pins, extra nylons, tissues, breath mints, and other items to be sure you’re prepared for anything. 5. Wedding Accessories It’s hard to forget the big accessories of the wedding day such as the gown, bouquet, or veil, but be sure to remember the smaller items as well. The guestbook and extra pens, unity candles or similar ceremonial items, ring bearer pillow, and flower girl baskets can be easy to
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overlook during the last minute preparations. If your wedding decorations will also include candles, be sure to bring along extra matches and lighters to be sure your event is filled with the romantic glow of candlelight. 6. Directions and Signage While your wedding invitations may have included maps and directions to the necessary locations, do not assume that every guest will have remembered to bring them along. Have extra maps available, and mark the locations well with welcome signs, balloons, arrows, and whatever other indicators may be necessary for everyone to find their way to the ceremony and reception on time. 7. Snacks Your nerves may be too jittery to eat much just before your wedding, but having a few simple snacks available can help settle your stomach and give you the strength to enjoy the full celebration. Granola bars, fruit, and sports drinks are the best choices, followed by a breath mint to be sure your first kiss is perfect. 8. Honeymoon Confirmations If you will be leaving directly from your reception, be sure to bring along any confirmation or booking numbers for flights, hotels, or resorts that are included on your honeymoon itinerary. Give your emergency contact information to your parents, and be sure you have your passports available if you will be traveling internationally. Couples who think of all the small details on their wedding day will be well prepared to enjoy the most romantic and memorable day of their lives without forgetting the small things that can turn a dream day into a nightmare.
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A local website to help you plan your Indianapolis wedding.
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www.IndianapolisWeddingBlog.com 24
Planning Timeline: Your Wedding Day Your wedding day may be one of the most nerve-wracking days of your life, and it can be difficult to concentrate on everything that needs to be accomplished as you prepare to say your vows. With careful planning, however, you can be sure you’ve finished each little task and are well prepared for a worry-free wedding day. The Night Before ☐☐ Get a good night’s rest ☐☐ Avoid too much alcohol ☐☐ Avoid questionable foods that your body may not appreciate Morning of Your Wedding ☐☐ Set extra alarms or arrange for wake up calls to ensure you don’t oversleep ☐☐ Take a long, indulgent bath or shower to help you relax ☐☐ Arrange for a massage, manicure, or pedicure if time permits; if not, try to get these appointments the day before your wedding ☐☐ Have a light breakfast or lunch ☐☐ Be prompt for your hair, makeup, and nail appointments ☐☐ Verify checklists and wedding day duties with the bridal party and vendors ☐☐ Call the groom for a few excited pleasantries before you meet at the altar Just Before the Wedding ☐☐ Be dressed early so you have time for last minute adjustments to your hair, makeup, or wardrobe ☐☐ Take a few private moments with your parents or very close friends and relatives ☐☐ Arrange for pre-ceremony wedding photos if possible to minimize the time between the ceremony and reception ☐☐ Arrive early at the ceremony site to give yourself a few moments to breathe ☐☐ Take a drink of water and a breath mint before walking down the aisle Between the Ceremony and Reception ☐☐ Take a private walk or drive with the groom if possible to enjoy those first few moments of marriage ☐☐ Take any remaining formal or posed wedding photos ☐☐ Freshen your hair and makeup, especially if the ceremony was filled with happy tears At the Reception ☐☐ Greet every guest either by mingling, visiting each table during dinner, or cutting and serving the wedding cake yourself ☐☐ Eat both the meal and the wedding cake that you so carefully chose ☐☐ Offer a thank you toast to all the guests, bridal party members, and family members who have made the day so special for you ☐☐ Enjoy yourself!
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