All You Need is Love and Some Dance Steps
12 MONTH PLANNING Calendar
DETAILS ON A FREE HONEYMOON INSIDE!
And Expert Advice to Ask Your Photographer
Weddings are in full swing, and we are here to help you plan your DREAM wedding!
Our vendors have been selected to guide you in every step of the planning process. From dresses and DJs to venues and caterers, we have it all.
Being a wedding planner as well as the editor of “Here Comes The Bride”, helps me to better understand the needs and requests of our brides-to-be. One question that is often asked is full-service weddings verses choosing your own vendor type wedding. Choosing your vendors individually ensures that you are creating your own style and often saving money too! Wedding vendors have their own style as well as you, the collaboration makes your wedding “uniquely you”.
A good rule of thumb is to have it your way, your vision, and you won’t go wrong!
Happy Planning, Lisa Licciardi, Editor www.bridalshowexpo.org
“Don't forget to check us out at www.bridalshowexpo.org for our upcoming bridal shows.”
Louisiana Northshore, located less than an hour from New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, is where love blossoms.
Our experienced team can help you find unique outdoor venues, divine rehearsal dinner locations, and create special custom itineraries for bachelorette and bachelor trips, as well as assist with group room rates for visiting family and friends.
Contact Tanya Leader at Tanya@LouisianaNorthshore.com for complimentary wedding package services in St. Tammany Parish.
Troy Grover Photographers ©
WHETHER YOU ORDER YOUR WEDDING
FINERY MONTHS IN ADVANCE FROM A BRIDAL SHOP OR YOU DECIDE TO WEAR AN HEIRLOOM DRESS, YOU CAN GET A CUSTOMIZED FIT BY HAVING IT PROPERLY TAILORED. FEW PEOPLE LOOK PERFECT IN CLOTHING RIGHT OFF THE HANGER SO PLAN ENOUGH TIME BEFORE THE EVENT TO GET YOUR CLOTHES CUSTOM FITTED TO YOUR BODY SPECIFICATIONS. YOU’LL BE SURE TO LOOK YOUR VERY BEST!
It is much easier to take your dress in than to let it out. Buy your outfit close to your size, but if in doubt, go up a size. Even if you are planning to lose weight, don’t take a chance. If you go up much more than one size, the tailor may have to take apart the entire garment and remake it, which will add considerably to the price.
Tailoring is especially important if you are a special size. Perhaps your top is bigger than your bottom, or you are generously proportioned, but short in stature. An expert tailor can make the alterations you need to get the perfect fit.
To alter the look of a gently used or heirloom dress or customize an inexpensive retail dress, consult the best alteration specialist you can find. With care, patience and experience, she can take off sleeves, shorten
trains, add embellishments and do other alterations that will make your dress one of a kind.
A talented tailor can alter any garment to give you a customized look that flatters your body. Just remember that expert alterations are not inexpensive and you will get what you pay for. The lowest price you can find is probably not a bargain. Choose a tailor that’s right for you. When you look beautiful, you’ll feel beautiful too!
MANY BRIDES EXPERIENCE STICKER SHOCK WHEN THEY GO DRESS SHOPPING FOR THE FIRST TIME. HOW CAN A DRESS YOU’LL ONLY WEAR ONCE COST SO MUCH? FORTUNATELY, YOU CAN LOOK FABULOUS AND FASHIONABLE WITHOUT GOING OVER YOUR BUDGET.
• Find deals online. Look for overstock or consignment web sites. Ebay and Craigslist both have wedding sections and there are other sites dedicated to reselling wedding dresses. Caution: Before you buy, check the return policy in case the dress doesn’t meet your expectations.
• Think inside the big box. Many retailers carry inexpensive formal dresses in white or ivory. You may be lucky enough to find one on sale. No one has to know that your beautiful dress isn’t a “wedding” dress.
• Look for resell shops. Thrift stores, consignment stores and local classified ads are excellent places to shop for a wedding dress. Check carefully for stains, rips and other damage before buying.
• Bridal store bargains. Check out the clearance rack or opt for a white or ivory bridesmaid dress, which can be much less expensive. Research bridal outlet stores in your area.
• Borrow a dress. A friend or family member may know of a
“heirloom” dress available for you to use.
• Make your dress. If you sew, make your dress for little more than the price of the material.
In all cases, a tailor can alter or customize your gown or add an accessory. A bow or sash around the waist, a new veil or a jacket can create an entirely new look. Use your creativity! With a little ingenuity, that sensibly priced gown can become your heirloom dress for the ages.
Katelyn James Photography ©
Paul’s pastry shop is a family owned and operated bakery. In 1970, the Paul family opened the original 800 square foot bakery, serving picayune and the surrounding area. Paul’s has expanded over the years and is now at our current location of over 10,500 square feet. This location consist of a full service coffee shop, a beautiful old New Orleans style party room and a very unique and private wedding planning suite along with a full service bakery.
Your wedding is your special day! Trust Paul’s Pastry Shop to create the cake of your dreams. We will provide a very traditional cake or an exquisitely unique cake. You are limited only by your imagination. Wedding consultations are by appointment. We request at least one week advanced notice. Call 601-798-7457 or 800-669-5180 to schedule an appointment. You will be personally assisted by our wedding consultant, Tiffany Wilson. Cake samples are available upon request. We have a beautiful photo album for you to browse wedding cakes and grooms cakes. You can also view current photos online at our wedding cake gallery www.Paulspastry. Com or on Facebook. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your cherished day!
Come in, sit down, and relax; you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much of your wedding can be planned here in our wedding gallery.
We also offer figurine toppers, wedding favors, accessory sets, bridal party gifts and a variety of glass gifts. We can supply your reception with complimenting pastries, Hors d’ oeuvres, punch, etc.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION, AS THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF YOUR WEDDING WILL BE A LASTING MEMORY OF YOUR SPECIAL DAY. HERE ARE SOME FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER.
STYLE: Look at the photographer's portfolio and determine whether their style matches your vision for your wedding. Some photographers specialize in a documentary or photojournalistic style, while others prefer a more traditional approach. Make sure you are happy with the photographer's style and that it matches your preferences.
There are many types of wedding photography styles, each with its own unique approach and aesthetic. Some common styles of wedding photography include:
TRADITIONAL WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style involves capturing formal, posed shots of the couple, family members, and wedding party.
PHOTOJOURNALISTIC WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY: This style focuses on capturing candid, spontaneous moments throughout the wedding day, telling the story of the day as it unfolds.
FINE ART WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style emphasizes creating artistic, creative, and dramatic shots that are often heavily edited for a unique, artistic effect.
NATURAL WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style focuses on capturing the couple and their guests in a relaxed, natural way, without a lot of posing or direction.
VINTAGE WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style aims to create a nostalgic and romantic feel by using vintage cameras, film, and processing techniques to create a classic, timeless look.
DRAMATIC WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style uses dramatic lighting and poses to create visually striking and impactful images.
DESTINATION WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY: This style focuses on capturing the unique culture and environment of the wedding location, often incorporating scenic landscapes or iconic landmarks.
It's important to note that many photographers incorporate elements from different styles into their work, creating a unique style that is tailored to each couple's preferences and vision for their wedding day.
EXPERIENCE: Choose a photographer who has experience shooting weddings. They should be able to handle the fast pace of the day, work well under pressure, and capture all the important moments. Experienced photographers will also be able to offer suggestions and advice based on their past work.
PERSONALITY: You'll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so it's important to choose someone whose personality meshes well with yours. Schedule a meeting or engagement shoot to get a feel for their personality and communication style.
PRICE: Wedding photography can be expensive, but it's important to remember that you're paying for the photographer's time, talent, and equipment. Set a budget for photography and choose a
photographer who offers packages that fit within your budget.
REVIEWS: Look for reviews from past clients to get an idea of the photographer's quality of work and professionalism. You can find reviews on the photographer's website, social media, and thirdparty review sites.
AVAILABILITY: Once you've found a photographer you like, check their availability for your wedding date. Popular photographers can book up quickly, so it's important to check their availability early.
Overall, take your time to choose the right wedding photographer, as the memories captured will last a lifetime.
Amin Russell, Creative Director Amin Russell Photography www.aminrussell.com
THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING. TO ENSURE SUCCESS – AND YOUR SANITY – THE KEY IS ORGANIZATION. WE’VE COMPILED A DETAILED CHECKLIST THAT PAYS SPECIAL ATTENTION TO TIME-SENSITIVE DEADLINES, SO YOU CAN CREATE A FOOLPROOF CALENDAR AND TO-DO LIST.
12 months +
Select date, time and place. Then reserve venues!
Decide on wedding size and style.
Hire wedding consultant (if applicable) and create wedding website.
Shop for gown.
Begin guest list.
9-12 months
Research honeymoon destinations.
Book musicians, DJ, florist, photographer, videographer and limousines.
Order invitations.
Purchase gown and begin alterations.
Ask friends to be in wedding party and order bridesmaid dresses.
6-9 months
Finalize guest list and send save-the-date cards.
Book appointments for hair, nails and make-up.
Reserve attire for groom and groomsmen.
Order cake(s).
Purchase rings.
3-6 months
Secure bridal accessories. (such as shoes, jewelry, garter, and mementos)
Give musicians a list of songs you want them to play. (Or not play!)
Make food choices with venue.
2 months
Mail invitations.
1 month
Give photographer a list of pictures you want taken.
1 week
Give final head count to reception venue.
The day before
Hold rehearsal ceremony and dinner.
Deliver everything to site and work out any kinks.
Give marriage license to officiant.
Present gifts to wedding party, parents and any other honored guests.
The day of
Give rings and officiant’s fee to best man.
Designate liaison for photographer to ensure all necessary pictures are taken.
Unique and original jewlery designs. Custom handmade jewelry for yourself or as gifts. I can make almost anything you like.
EXHALE!
NOLA Theme, Bridal Jewelry, College Theme, Awareness Jewelry and more!
NOTE: Larger cities have long waiting lists for wedding vendors so you may need to act sooner!
Custom Jewelry • Cake Pulls • Gifts • Wearables
