CATERING ..................................... 90 Child Attendants 42 Choosing Bridesmaids 18 Color & Linen Trends............................116 Color Selection 112 CONSULTANTS 101 Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff ...................... 20 Engagement Photos ............................ 26 FLOWERS 146
FORMALWEAR ................................ 218 Friday/Sunday Weddings ........................ 34 Furry Friends 78 GOWNS 6 Hiring a Pro Bartender .......................... 96 HONEYMOON ................................ 230 Ideas by the season 45 INTIMATE WEDDINGS/CEREMONIES/ REHEARSAL DINNERS .......................... 60
INVITATIONS 168
LAKE GENEVA 156 Late Night and After Parties ..................... 46 Maid of Honor Responsibilities ................. 217 Managing a Budget 55 Micro Weddings ................................ 59 Modern Families ................................ 32
MUSIC 198 Outdoor Wedding 209 Parents Responsibilities ........................ 180
PHOTO/VIDEO ................................ 136 Pinterest and Planning 166 Please Be Seated ................................12
RECEPTION .................................... 68
RENTALS 106
Same Sex Weddings 77
Second Time Brides............................ 164 Signs 51 Spotlight on Weddings 114 Stress Free Planning ........................... 206
TRANSPORTATION............................ 224 Trends 36
Unplugged Weddings .......................... 160
Wedding Catastrophes .......................... 28 Wedding Day Styles 50
Publisher NICOLE BLAZER Art Director JENNIFER ERDMAN jennifererdman.com
Contributing Writer KELSEY LAWLER Planning + Florals 88 EVENTS + Decor @88EVENTSWI
Photographer COLLEEN BIES PHOTOGRAPHY @colleenbies
Venue POPLAR HALL @poplarhallwi
Hair + Makeup VAMP @vampartistry
Gowns + Styling VICTORIAN BRIDAL + Accessories @VICTORIANBRIDAL
Gowns TIE THE KNOT BRIDAL BOUTIQUE @tietheknotwi
Menswear DU BOIS FORMALWEAR @duboisformalwear
Jewelry + Rings REIMER JEWELERS @ReimerJewelers
Gourmet Pretzels THE TWIST @thetwistpretzel
Desserts GIVE MAC DESSERTS @give.mac
Craft Teas FIKA COFFEE & TEA @fika.coffeeandtea
Photo Booth PHOTO BOOTHS OF WISCONSIN @photoboothsofwisconsin
Furniture Rentals RUBY DESIGN EVENT RENTALS @rubydesigneventdecorco
Stationery BASICINVITE.COM @basicinvite
Female Model ALYSSA HOBAN @alyssahoban The Rock Agency @therockagency
Female Model MADYSEN SCHMIDT Male Model JOSIAH ELKINS @marley_reincarnated3
Male Model GEORGE MEDINA @st.georgia
COPYRIGHT©2023
You are holding the latest edition of Premier Bride, your local wedding guide designed especially for brides and grooms-to-be looking for the latest trends, newest and most popular venues, and best vendors in the Greater Milwaukee Area.
Premier Bride is a local business based in Southeastern Wisconsin. In fact, the majority of our advertising partners are all small, locally owned businesses just like us. We are all committed to working with and promoting local wedding businesses to help make your wedding day unforgettable!
We know planning a wedding isn’t easy It’s difficult to navigate through the countless number of pins you’ve likely been collecting since before your engagement. We aim to cut through the noise and give you clear, sensible and reliable information from local experts who love weddings.
We want Premier Bride to be entertaining, informative and inspiring, but above all useful. Inside you’ll find informational articles, real weddings, features, and helpful planning tools to begin your nuptial journey. Be sure to visit our website (premierbridemke.com) for an indepth look at area wedding vendors, local wedding shows, fun polls and quizzes, and the chance to win amazing prizes.
We hope you enjoy this issue. Congrats on your engagement! Now let’s plan your wedding...
scan me!
Even from a very young age, most girls daydream about their wedding dress. We’re constantly bombarded with movies, TV, and photos of picture-perfect, iconic brides. And what makes these brides iconic? The dress! Although finding the right dress for your wedding day isn’t as easy as daydreaming, we’re here to help with these bridal gown basics.
PREPARE TO SPEND A LITTLE MORE. Just because it’s a great price doesn’t mean it’s a great dress for you. And don’t forget to bring along a pad of paper to track styles, dress names and numbers.
Bridal attire ranges from extravagant princess gowns to tailored suits. There’s no rule saying a bride must wear a fancy gown. This is the age when brides dress for their own comfort level and personal style, but more polished. Even so, most brides stick with a dress. The strapless style is always a favorite, but the market has expanded in recent years to include gowns with all manner of straps, sleeves, and accessories. You’ll see many dresses that are modest in the front and dramatic in the back. Dresses are also belted, have convertible or removable cap sleeves, and come in an array of bold and muted colors in addition to just white. Some brides even wear more than one dress. They might choose a traditional gown for the ceremony and a short dress for the reception, so they can comfortably dance the night away.
Satin, tulle, and lace are the most common fabrics for wedding gowns, and the type of fabric you choose will greatly affect the price. If you’re dreaming of intricate, hand-stitched, Italian lace with delicate beading, the cost will rise, not to mention the price of alterations. But these days, it’s entirely possible to find designers that create gorgeous gowns with price points that suit the mainstream bride. The professionals at your local bridal salon will be able to help you determine which fabric and details fit within your budget.
Start by gathering ideas. Bridal magazines, designer websites, and Pinterest are a great source as you start the hunt for your wedding dress. Compile the styles you like that suit the mood of your wedding. Is your wedding venue
a rustic lodge, classic ballroom, or ultra-modern loft? Ask yourself, “What kind of dress makes sense for the activities of the day?”
Also think about what kind of dress makes sense for you. Weddings are no longer strictly adhering to tradition, and brides are embracing this new mainstream by crafting weddings that are a true reflection of themselves, and that goes for bridal style, too. If you’re not into princess gowns, wear a white jumpsuit and sassy heels. If your wedding’s on a beach, don a knee-length sheath and comfy sandals. Keep your vision of your true self in mind as you search for ideas.
Then, make an appointment at your local bridal salon. Salons give you more bang for your buck and a better overall experience and value than an online retailer. At a salon, you can try on multiple styles free of charge, and you’re guaranteed to work with a consultant who has seen countless brides before you and can help discern the right style of dress for your body type. A local salon may also offer, or can at least refer you to, someone who can make alterations to the dress you choose.
When you go, invite a trusted team of family and friends to join you. You don’t need an army, just a few close people you can count on to tell you the truth. Ideally you should start visiting salons anywhere from nine months to a year before your wedding to allow enough time. If you’re in a rush, 6 months or less, tell your consultant immediately.
Remember that no two brides are shaped alike, therefore, no dress will ever accent your silhouette exactly the same way it does another bride’s body. When the time comes to try on gowns, explore a myriad of styles and cuts to
figure out what works for you. Keep an open mind; you might be surprised! Note that bridal salons often carry only one sample size of each gown. Try on these gowns even if they’re not your size. Consultants are there to help you get in and out of sample sizes. If you’re nervous about the sizes available at your local bridal salon, give them a call. Talking to a representative will ease your mind, and you’ll find that whether you’re full-figured or very petite, there have never been more options to accommodate brides of all shapes and sizes.
Don’t be afraid to try on dresses that aren’t necessarily in your comfort zone. You never know what a gown will really look like until you try it on, and lots of brides end up choosing a style of
gown they never even dreamed of. Remember that the gowns at salons are just samples, so the size won’t be tailored to you, and most dresses can be ordered in various shades of white. So just because you’re not crazy about that big blush dress on the hanger, try it anyway! What do you have to lose?
While at the salon, make sure to take advantage of your professional consultant’s knowledge and expertise. A good bridal consultant should steer you in the right direction so communicate your likes, dislikes, wants, and needs as much as possible. It’s the consultant’s job to handle every step of your salon experience including showing you every option within your price range. They can also coordinate alterations and other practical matters once you’ve found “the one.”
If you’re not in sync with the consultant you’ve been dealt, don’t hesitate to ask to work with a different representative. Every bridal salon’s goal is to give you an enjoyable experience.
Deciding on a gown is a major hurdle, but that’s not the end of the wedding dress “to do” list. There are usually as many as four fittings that follow saying “yes” to the dress. Here are some tips for making this process run as smoothly as possible. First, give yourself and the seamstress sufficient time. If you’re in a rush, this is when working with a bridal salon can really help. It’s usually their job to make sure alterations run smoothly and on time.
Second, choose a dress that’s very close to your actual size. Most gowns can’t be changed by more
than two sizes, up or down. Buy a dress that fits the biggest part of you, not the smallest part. It’s easier to take a dress in to hug your figure than it is to let it out. If you’re not working with a salon and have to find your own seamstress, choose one that has a great reputation, not the lowest rate.
When the time comes for your first fitting, make sure you’re sporting the same undergarments and shoes that you’ll be wearing on your wedding day. Even the slightest tweak in bra padding or heel height can change the way a dress hangs and where the hem falls. As you’re working with the seamstress, trust that they know what they’re doing. You may ask them to make one alteration, and they might suggest an alternate way to achieve that look, or advise against it altogether. Know when to take a deep breath and have some faith in the professionals. B
bride’s
pain killers antacid band-aids eye drops allergy meds toothbrush toothpaste mouthwash
tissue tampons/pads deodorant q-tips sunscreen hand sanitizer dental floss baby powder
brush/comb lip balm/gloss hairspray lotion perfume tweezers earring backs clear nail polish colored nail polish
superglue scissors hem tape stain remover static-cling spray phone charger comfy flats
water drink straws energy drinks protein snacks
Assigned vs. unassigned seating at the wedding reception – opinions vary among today’s brides. Open seating allows guests to choose their seat which works well with informal type and cocktail party type receptions. With assigned seating, guests can be assigned a seat or just a table where they choose their seat at that table. A few guidelines will help the process of assigned seating.
Begin working on the table layout and seating chart a few weeks prior to the wedding to allow for changes. Include those you believe will attend but have not yet responded.
Determine if you need just a seating chart or if you also need place cards at each seat. Some brides are finding creative ways to combine the two such as a table with glass Coke bottles that have a tag hung around the neck stating the guest’s name and table number. Guests pick up their bottle as they enter the reception and place it at their seat. Place cards can help guests to remember each other’s names.
Traditionally, close family and friends sit nearest to the bride and groom. Those generally seated together are families, work friends, people of the same age (teenagers or the elderly), and groups of friends. For interest, mix the bride’s and groom’s friends at one table. Do not sit together divorced couples and/ or feuding families.
nuts & chews candy gum/mints alcohol
Planning a seating chart should not be a stressful part of wedding planning. Ask for help from the mothers of the bride and groom and begin early to make the process simple and hassle-free. B
You may have heard the expression “it’s your day, do it your way,” as you’ve been planning your wedding. And this is true! It’s a time to express your true self, be authentic, and drown out the expectations of others. On the other hand, it’s easy to take this concept too far. A recent “Dear Abby” letter described a bride at a wedding who preferred to dance on an empty stomach, so she had guests wait five hours for their dinner, and had the dancing first! That’s a great example of taking it too far…
Here are a few tips about being a gracious bride:
Understand your guests’ perspective. How does the day’s schedule look, from your guests’ viewpoint? Awkward gaps of time between the ceremony and reception are difficult for guests, and asking them to drive more than 30 minutes between locations is usually too much. Try, as much as possible, to craft your day’s schedule with the guests in mind.
Jump on those thank you notes. Guests are excited to get you something wonderful in honor of your marriage, and they can’t wait to hear if you not only received it, but liked it! Write a conversational, personalized note and respond as quickly as possible.
Give others grace. Just know that weddings are an emotional time for your close relatives, especially parents, siblings and close friends. In addition to the joy, there can also be this strange sense of “loss,” that they’re losing you, and this can bring up unexpected emotions. As much as possible, when people around you are driving you crazy, give them grace and, maybe, a warm hug. Best wishes to you, gracious bride! B
Get involved. Maybe discussing floral arrangements and seating charts makes your eyes glaze over… That’s fine! Figure out what DOES interest you, and get involved. The entertainment, the food, the cake, the transportation, the honeymoon… Pick your areas, own them, make them happen. Keep the bride in the loop and be open to her input –she’ll love knowing she’s not doing this wedding thing all by herself.
Speak up. Be an active team member by sharing your opinion, voicing your support, and offering words of encouragement and appreciation. It’s also important that you be the primary contact with your family. These are important skills not only during the wedding planning, but forever!
No bashing. It’s quite likely that your stressed out bride-to-be will complain bitterly at moments about her dear family and close friends… It happens to the best of us. Listen to her, be empathetic to her distress, but do NOT join in on the complaining. She’ll get over her stress, but she may remember, and feel bad about, your negative comments. Again, for best relationship results, remember this tip always. Show your romantic side. Share your deepest, loving feelings – she wants to hear them! Here are a few ideas: write her a letter that she can open the morning of the wedding. Have her favorite flowers delivered the week before the wedding along with a supportive note. Plan a special, relaxing evening for the two of you in the weeks before the wedding, where she can escape for awhile from the wedding planning stress. Ahhhh…. Sigh. B
(that won’t break the wedding budget!)
Visit a local shelter or charity and serve someone. Not only are you having fun with your fiancé, it’s a great way to give back to your community.
Sometimes the best adventures are right outside your door!
Ask your friends over and play some good ole fashioned board games. You don’t realize how competitive your friends are until Monopoly comes into the picture!
You know all those pins you’ve saved on Pinterest and never tried? Now is the time to get crafty! You can probably find most of the items around your house.
Who doesn’t want to be Joanna Gaines? Why yes, we’ll take the $1,000 house without walls. We can shiplap that. (JK, please don’t do that!)
Ask your friends for ideas. Sometimes all you need is a good laugh with the person you love to have a great night. Don’t forget the popcorn.
Walk around and take pictures of each other with this oldie but goodie. After you’ve used all 28 of your pics, get them developed. The cloud may fail you, but prints last (almost) forever.
Encouraging each other to be healthy can be a fun way to stay in shape.
If you’re like most brides-to-be, you’ve probably had your bridesmaids picked out for a while. The daydream typically includes mimosas and all your best girlfriends in fluffy white robes. But once you’re engaged, the decisions get real and sometime’s there more than just your daydreams to consider. There are sisters, future sisters-inlaw, college friends, childhood friends, and other important ladies in your life - how do you narrow it down? Here are some things to ponder as you go about choosing your bridesmaids.
SIZING UP. You can have as many or as few bridesmaids as you like, but it’s not uncommon to see large wedding parties at larger weddings and smaller parties at more intimate affairs. Still, there’s no rule, so do what works for you. Also consider cost and coordination when deciding
on the number of bridesmaids in your party. It’s much easier to coordinate bridesmaid dress shopping and fittings with three girls, as opposed to ten.
FAMILY FIRST. Once you determine the number, start with the obvious candidates: Family. How many siblings do you have? And your fiancée? If you each have one or two siblings (and an equal number of ladies and gents), it can be easy to fit them into the wedding party. If you’re outnumbered (say, the groom has five siblings and you have none), you might want to go a different route. Remember that you can always ask siblings to be ushers or readers - a part of the wedding, if not officially in the party.
YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND. Once you’ve figured out how to include close family members in your bridal
party, it’s time to move on to friends. This seems like a no-brainer - just pick your best girlfriends! But it’s not always that simple. First, think about the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen you and your fiancée settled on. If you have seven best friends and he has two, you might have to pick the best of the best and forego the rest to keep things even.
Also, consider where your ladies are at in life: Are any pregnant? Raising a toddler? Living across the country? Traveling a ton for work? Though they love you and want to celebrate with you, don’t assume everyone you ask will jump at the chance to be in your wedding. Should any of your potential bridesmaids voice hesitation, be understanding of that decision and have a backup in mind.
Just as with family members, if you have a close friend you’d like to include in the wedding but
don’t have enough space for her as a bridesmaid, think about giving her a different part to play. Beyond readers and ushers, many brides ask a friend to be their Personal Attendant: a fancy phrase for the person who does the bride’s bidding. But it’s not all giving orders - the right friend for the job would delight in being close to you on your wedding day and helping out any way she can.
CHOOSE WISELY. A lot goes into being a bridesmaid. There are dress fittings, alterations, parties, showers, the rehearsal dinner, photos, and so much more. You’ll have to count on these ladies to be there for you, maintain a positive attitude, and be a worthy reflection of you on one of the most important days of your life. Choose wisely. Choose women who will build you up, go the extra mile, and do all in their power to make your wedding day one for the ages. B
Wedding day details that are worth your time—and ones that aren’t!
“Bride brain” can happen to even the most organized wedding planners. No bride wants to spend nights tossing and turning, but odds are you will lie awake and worry in your own way. Perhaps you’ll fret over how to do your hair, which readings to choose, or if you should spring for the chiavari chairs. We’re here to help you think through which details are worth sweating, and which are not.
When considering details, the most important ones to nail are the logistics. This includes timeline, seating arrangements, spatial layouts, and communication with guests. Do send save-the-dates and formal invitations. Ensure that all key details are accounted for, including dates, locations, and times. On paper invites, include your wedding URL so you can direct guests to find even more detailed information online.
Plan your wedding day timeline, right down to five- or ten-minute increments. Staying on track time-wise is imperative to making the day run smoothly. Not sure where to start with a timeline? Your wedding vendors can be a wonderful resource. It’s to everyone’s benefit that you and your vendors work together and agree on your timeline. This way, vendors can give you their very best service, which trickles down to the guest experience. Once your timeline is finalized, share it with all relevant parties, including close family, bridal party, and vendors.
Do you want to thoughtfully place guests next to certain other guests? Would you rather assign people to specific tables, but let them figure it out from there? Either way, you need to give some direction to help everything run smoothly. For ceremony seating, don’t take ushers for granted. Even at a small wedding, an usher can be critical to ensure that key family members get a front-row seat.
Every bride has her thing. Maybe you’re determined to DIY your centerpieces, make handmade favors, or are willing to put dollars behind floral, tablescapes, or high-end paper products. If it’s important to you, it will be worth your time and money in the end—but not all decorative details are created equally.
For instance, if you’re a flower lover, you may want to splurge on a floral installation. If you’d like to infuse more color into the day, you might upgrade your glassware and place settings to more eclectic, colorful pieces. Know a talented hand-letterer? You may want to incorporate more hand-lettered elements throughout. Bottom line, if your gut tells you a detail is worth it for you, it probably is. Choose your must-have mood-setting details, and cool it with the rest.
Brides have enough to worry about with their own look, so don’t worry about what other people are wearing. If your groom doesn’t buy himself a new pair of coordinating socks, nobody—yourself included—will notice. While such aesthetic details can feel strangely important (these pictures will last a lifetime!), when the time comes, it won’t matter if your
father-in-law’s tie is loud or your aunt is wearing hot pink. It’s all part of what makes your wedding every bit as unique as the people involved.
A wedding can sometimes leave you overplanning for every possible scenario. Will it rain? Will it be too hot? Too cold? As you’re planning, only take time for those scenarios whose fixes come easily. If the weather is chancey and you have the budget to buy last-minute umbrellas or shawls for the wedding party, go for it. If not, just send folks a friendly reminder to fend for themselves, rain or shine.
If you’re DIY-ing parts of your decor, know when to admit that it’s not worth the headache. Planning centerpieces? If you can borrow dozens of glass vases from a friend, that sounds worthwhile. But if you’re running all over town in search of the perfect vintage candlesticks, that may not be worth your time. Consider the payoff, and lean on your professional vendors when you can.
It can be tempting to upgrade to gorgeous chiavari chairs, reclaimed wood tables, and luxurious seating areas. If your budget allows for such eye candy, that’s wonderful—but oftentimes venues come complete with on-site tables, chairs, and even linens. Before dismissing those white folding chairs, ask to see photos of other weddings at your reception site with the chairs in action. It might be that, once you see the big picture, you won’t feel the urge to upgrade after all. In the end, by choosing wisely which details to focus your efforts and budget on, those are the things that will shine. The rest? Don’t sweat it. B
– Separate private suites featuring multiple amenities & private patios
– On-site paved parking
– Accommodates groups of 300 (ceremonies up to 250) while being intimate enough for smaller groups
– Option of indoor or outdoor ceremony space
– Beautiful outdoor deck
– Only 4 miles from I-94 & close to hotels
Wales, WI feteofwales.com
Engagement photos are a natural step in the wedding-planning process. In fact, many photographers include them in their standard packages. But this is more than just a nice perk. Beyond gorgeous images, an engagement photo shoot is a chance to get to know your photographer, and for them to get to know you!
Now’s your chance to warm up in front of the camera. It’s also an opportunity to see your photographer in action. You can work with them to establish which poses are winners and which angles you do or don’t like. Your photographer will learn just how much or how little direction you and your fiancé need so they can be prepared with how to best capture you on your big day.
The beauty of engagement photos is they are more casual and laid-back than your wedding day will be. This is a chance to photograph life as you live it, perhaps together at home or out at a favorite local haunt.
Use your engagement photos to populate your wedding website or pick the best photo to put on your save-the-date. If you live in a climate with four seasons, plan your engagement session during a time of year that’s different from your wedding. A winter shoot might give you the perfect cover for next year’s holiday card!
An engagement shoot should feel like everyday life, elevated for the camera. Be conscious of what you’re wearing and make sure you and your fiancé coordinate. Think of it this way: You want to look like you’re both going to the same party. One shouldn’t dress for a ball game while
the other dresses for New Year’s Eve. Avoid logos, wild patterns, and head-to-toe monochrome.
Choose colors that flatter your skin tone. Not sure? Ask your most fashionable friend for advice! Avoid pieces that are overly trendy: that funky hat might be fun today, but you might regret it in five years. Finally, be sure to dial in the details. Steam your ensembles and be conscious of clean socks, shoes, and nail polish. To take it up a notch, treat yourself to professional hair and makeup! This is a fun excuse to splurge and really look your best.
One of the perks of an engagement shoot is it should, in theory, help you feel more at ease in front of the camera more quickly on your wedding day. Take your time and don’t rush this photo session. Pick a place you and your fiancé feel connected to and comfortable in: your home, a favorite coffee shop, an antique store, outside of a local movie theater, or playing a sport. The more creative you get, the more creative your photographer can get, too!
Some tips for acting naturally: Pull out your inside jokes to make each other laugh. Listen to music you both love to help you get out of your head and into the moment. Bring any props that make you feel at ease, whether it’s your bikes, your favorite drinks, or your sweet dog.
The best way to approach your shoot is to make a date of it. End your session with a favorite outing, like dinner or drinks, a movie, or a trip to the museum. It’s something to look forward to throughout the photo shoot and a chance to end the experience on a high note. B
When thinking about your big day, insurance doesn’t cross your mind. However, there is A LOT of money, time and effort being invested in your wedding. If something goes wrong, would you be fine with completely losing that investment? You want your wedding to be perfect. You don’t want to worry about what you would do if the unthinkable happened.
Wedding insurance covers a wide range of damage and mishaps. If the bride’s dress or groom’s tuxedo is damaged or lost, or if the rings disappear, you can get repair or replacement cost for them. If severe weather forces you to postpone your wedding you can get reimbursement for non-recoverable expenses. If your wedding photographs are damaged or lost, insurance can cover the cost to have the photographs retaken. Damaged gifts can be repaired or replaced. This is just a small list of what you can be protected against. Wedding insurance not only protects, it is also extremely affordable. It can cost as little as $160.
After the big day, the gifts your guests gave you to start your journey can be insured with Renter’s Insurance. And let’s not forget about the first home you purchase to raise your family. Not only will you want to protect the home itself with a Homeowner’s policy, but you’ll also want to make sure that you will be able to pay your mortgage in the event of the unforeseen. Life Insurance and savings plans can give you and your future children some security for your future.
Contact a local independent agent to find out more so that you can rest easy for this day and all the days to follow. B
It’s a reflection of your creative vision. It has all your signature touches. It’s beautiful in the moment, and it will be forever.
Weddings can be tricky when a parent is divorced or the extended family is mixed. If you or your fiancé have divorced parents who are on good terms, count your blessings. If their relationship is bitter or merely polite, then correct handling of delicate matters on your wedding day can help avoid unwanted tension. Toss out the traditional wedding rulebook and, above all else, be sensitive to the situation.
Start by considering wedding traditions and anticipate ways to prevent any hurt feelings by keeping the lines of communication open with both parents right from the get-go. For instance, it’s tradition for the parent with whom you’ve lived the longest to issue the wedding invitations. This may not sit well if your parents are divorced so try to include both parent’s names on the invites.
Then there’s the escort question: Who will walk the bride down the aisle? When dealing with mixed families, the lines sometimes blur between the biological father and step-dad and the biological mother and step-mom. Again, throw tradition out the window and ask yourself, “Who deserves to walk me down the aisle?” It might be your dad, mom, both parents, a step-parent, two dads, two moms – that’s for you to decide. What matters in the end is that you choose the person or pair of people who have earned the honor of being your escort. Do your best to avoid hurting anyone by, again, keeping the lines of communication open. This same logic holds true for the traditional father/daughter and mother/son dance at the reception.
Featuring exquisite English gardens, scenic lakefront views and 10 acres of beautifully manicured grounds and historic buildings, the DeKoven Center is the perfect backdrop for your special day www.dekovencenter.org | (262)633-6401 ext. 108 | 600 Caron Butler Drive, Racine, WI
While following your heart to create the wedding of your dreams (and possibly shirking tradition in the process), stay sensitive to your family’s feelings and recognize when to be the bigger person. In an ideal world, you’d be able to explain your decisions to your divorced parents and each would be entirely supportive – but that’s not always the case. Remember that it might be within your power to ease tensions and keep everyone happy. Perhaps you’ll have to compromise on whose names appear on the invitation or who walks you down the aisle, but those are small sacrifices to make to keep your wedding day running smoothly.
Similarly, think about how the choices you make on this one day might affect the family dynamic for years to come. Your wedding day could result in tensions flaring up, or it could be a chance for forgiveness and healing. Talk to your
divorced parents about what this day symbolizes to you: the creation of a new family. Remind your parents and step-parents of this especially if there are any major points of contention between family members. Appeal to their rational side and encourage everyone to set aside their differences for this one day in celebration of this new family.
A few more practical ways to avoid any awkwardness: If one of your parents is remarried and the other is single, encourage the single parent to bring a guest to the wedding. Brief your wedding professionals on the family dynamics so they know who not to push together for a photo or special dance. You’ll also want to determine the ceremony and reception seating ahead of time. In the end, for every decision that affects you and your divorced parents or mixed family, ask yourself, “What’s right for me and my family?” and do just that. B
If you decide to have your wedding on a Friday or a Sunday, you’ll reap several rewards: both financial and otherwise. You’ll save time, you’ll probably save a significant amount of money, and you’ll find that your guests may appreciate having a Saturday free to spend time with you and the other guests they know.
the ceremony is followed immediately by dinner. This means that you will avoid the extra cost and hassle of a one-to-two-hour interim reception or cocktail party. Having the ceremony and reception back to back may ensure more people at the church ceremony.
Additionally, a Friday/Sunday wedding frees up at least one day of the weekend making your family, friends and guests more appreciative of the extra time, especially if they are traveling.
Planning for a Friday or a Sunday wedding makes it much more likely that you will be able to reserve the church, hall, music and other services on the date of your choice. Choosing a Friday or Sunday date allows you to avoid making several calls to numerous vendors, only to hear, “Sorry, we’re booked on that date.”
For Friday or Sunday weddings, the majority of banquet facilities, photographers, video producers, musicians/entertainers and limousine services are much more willing to negotiate in order to reach a price that suits your budget. Vendors tend to see Friday and Sunday as bonus days, a time when they can earn income. Savings on these services can really add up making this option a great way to save money without having to sacrifice the quality of your wedding.
On a Friday, you’ll probably have your wedding in the evening, which means, that
Restaurants are usually thrilled to have rehearsal dinners booked on Thursdays or other evenings during the week since those are typically their slower business days. You will find a more relaxed atmosphere and the staff will be more attentive to your party’s needs.
In selecting a Friday or Sunday date for your event, you’ll help both your budget and your odds of getting exactly the wedding you want while also allowing for more time dedicated to finalizing last minute details. You can use the extra day to catch your breath, and use the extra money to purchase something special. B
The beautiful thing about today’s wedding trends? Just about anything goes! Couples are leaning into what makes them unique: favorite colors, flowers, food and drink, and sentiments. They’re putting their time and money into the aspects that mean most to them, making each wedding as singular as every couple’s love story.
GIVE YOURSELF AMPLE TIME. Experts predict a wedding boom in 2023. Book vendors early and give yourself plenty of time for items that need to be shipped, including wedding attire and invitations.
In bridal fashion, nothing is off limits. Brides are embracing maximalism with showstopping fairytale ball gowns, dramatic silhouettes dripping with glamor, or punchy pops of color. While dress shopping, you may see fuller skirts, higher slits, and sheer fabrics. Necklines range from off-the-shoulder to mock-neck. And it’s not only gowns; mini party dresses and gorgeous suiting are also in style.
Whereas blush has been popular in years past, these days brides are putting their “something blue” front and center, choosing gowns in blue hues. Florals, both three dimensional and brightly patterned, are another design element we’re seeing lots of.
As for the bridesmaids, nearly anything goes. Wedding parties are mixing it up, though brides will certainly still have a say in what’s being worn. Dresses range from less-formal looks to the opulence of luxury fabrics to statementmaking patterns. Whether laid-back or fancy, the goal is to work in various coordinating cuts, colors, fabric types, and designs to let the personality and beauty of each bridesmaid shine through. Typically, there is a cohesive theme to tie everything together, such as a seasonal color story or type of pattern, such as floral.
As brides and bridesmaids embrace color and texture, so do the grooms. For the more daring fella, suits in sophisticated shades of blue, burgundy, brown, and green are taking the place of traditional black tuxedos. Shoes also reflect this colorful range. Further accessorizing with patterned shirts, ties, pocket squares, and socks lets the groom and groomsmen have some fun with their fashion, too.
While the classic wedding is always in style, couples are thinking outside the box when it comes to their ceremony and reception. From elegant ballrooms to rustic-chic barns, venues of all shapes and sizes are in fashion.
Couples are pushing the boundaries of wedding decor, opting for bold colors and personalized touches that are a true reflection of both their relationship and family traditions. Expect to see elaborate floral design, unique rental furniture, and a highly-personalized guest experience. It’s about celebrating with those nearest and dearest, and doing so with the utmost thought, care, and attention to detail.
A lot of couples seem to run with the notion of “go big or go home,” pulling out all the stops for their wedding day. Couples are splurging on wow-worthy installations and accent pieces to truly impress their guests and set an unforgettable scene. Artistic accents like balloon arches, greenery walls, neon signs, marquee letters, twinkle-light ceilings, and floral installations offer a picture-perfect Instagram moment. Photo booths have been given an upgrade too, with 360-degree video booths becoming a super-fun way to capture magical moments.
For wedding flower trends, we’re seeing everything from oversized installations to small blooms in thoughtful places. You may see a hanging installation or wall of flowers primed for a photo op, or a sprig of greenery to complete each place setting.
Flowers are used to frame the vows, too. Often there’s an arched or geometric frame, but florists also work with nature to create something sensational. For an outdoor wedding, a floral installation might use an existing tree as a base, with blooms crawling up the trunk or elegant fabric sweeping from branch to branch.
When it comes to the flowers themselves, some couples are turning to exotic blooms, while others work with their floral designer for bouquets full of locally-gathered foliage, keeping sustainability at the center. Sometimes, the flowers themselves are few. Some brides are opting for an abundance of greenery and branches instead. Color stories range from saturated brights to soft hues, depending on a wedding’s style or season.
Dried flowers are also finding their way into both statement-making decor and bridal attire. Brides can purchase hair combs trimmed with dried blooms, or even carry bouquets made of already-dried flowers.
The traditional sit-down, three- or fivecourse meal is enjoying a sort of revolution. While you’ll still see these formal dinners, many couples are turning dinner into something more relaxed and social, with some show-stopping moments. Consider a wall of drinks or a sprawling display of charcuterie.
Couples want their food and drinks to not only impress, but have meaning. They’ll work with caterers to create custom meals and craft cocktails that feature some of their favorite things. Dinners that feature sustainable
catering with locally-grown and in-season ingredients are also highly sought after. These more casual farm-to-table dinners go hand-in-hand with family-style dining to foster a comfortable, homey environment.
When it comes to desserts, some couples choose to have both a classic wedding cake alongside new favorites, like donuts, ice cream, or candy. The cake itself becomes an extension of your wedding theme, acting as a work of art as much as a delicious treat. Decorative cakes may be embellished with edible flowers, painterly watercolors, or bold hues to fit the colors of the day.
A series of small wedding cakes or cupcakes also lends a fanciful touch full of many flavors. And just as food trucks are popular, so are dessert “trucks” like gelato carts, gourmet popsicle stands, or fresh mini donuts.
Then there’s the late-night snack, a treat that many guests have almost come to expect nowadays. Couples can go for a crowd favorite like pizza or sliders, or offer a hometown specialty. Late-night snacks are not only yummy, they’re yet another opportunity for the bride and groom to get creative and show off their personality and style.
In all stages of the meal, couples are being increasingly conscious of food preferences and allergies. More and more people follow specialty diets nowadays, and if you aren’t one of them, odds are someone on your guest list lives a gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan life. Whether due to health reasons or a lifestyle choice, it’s important to accommodate those guests. Luckily, wedding and event caterers are keeping up with the times, offering plenty of scrumptious meals to suit all palates. B
H y a t t R e g e n c y i s k n o w n f o r o u r q u i r k y p e r s o n a l i t y , e x t r a o r d i n a r y s e r v i c e , a n d w e d d i n g s t h a t ✨ W O W ✨ .
P e r c h e d a t o p t h e h o t e l o n t h e 2 1 s t f l o o r , t h e o n l y r o o f t o p b a l l r o o m w i t h p a n o r a m i c v i e w s o f d o w n t o w n a n d L a k e M i c h i g a n . 2 5 - 1 5 0 g u e s t s
B r e a t h t a k i n g l y s p a c i o u s w i t h 1 4 ' c e i l i n g s f o r e x t r a v a g a n t d é c o r a n d p l e n t y o f r o o m t o g e t d o w n o n t h e d a n c e f l o o r 1 2 5 - 6 0 0 g u e s t s h y a
The gift options will vary widely depending on the age of the child, of course. Here are a variety of ideas to spark some creative shopping.
• First set of pearls, or some other piece of ‘nice’ jewelry appropriate for older girls
• Costume jewelry or play jewelry for younger kids
• Bridal Barbie
• Flower girl sparkle t-shirt
• Personalized t-shirts: “I bought t-shirts from a local craft store, one to fit each of my 3 flower girls and 2 ring bearers, and then bought transfer paper for ink jet printers. I then printed a picture of my fiancé and I, along with “Flower Girl” or “Ring Bearer” and the date of the wedding, and ironed them on the shirts!” ~ Jennifer, Atlanta, Georgia
Ballet slippers, sparkly and festive for the wedding celebration Jewelry box or music box
Photo with engraved frame
Gift certificates to toy or special store Child’s purse
Silver, personalized piggy bank (or train bank, or soccer ball bank, etc.)
Silver, personalized yo-yo
Personalized t-shirts (see above)
• Teddy bears or other stuffed animals
• Kid’s watch
• Disney video or video games
• Sports car alarm clock
• Personalized baseball bat
Also, a nice gift for the parents is to give them a framed photo of their child(ren) from the wedding. B
Most people think of sunshine when they picture a wedding day, but not every day fits that mold. Luckily, something as joyful as a wedding can be sunny even on the dreariest of days. As long as you take advantage of what your season has to offer, all four can provide beautiful accents to your big day.
Spring weddings are always popular, in part because of the parallels between new life blooming in the gardens and the new life of a married couple. Using flower bulbs instead of full-grown flowers also add to that feeling. For a spring-themed centerpiece that doubles as a favor, have multiple small, pastel-colored vases and encourage your guests to bring one home. Seeds and tiny monogrammed flowerpots are also a fun favor!
You could also try bringing a little Easter to your reception by having lilies as centerpieces or hiding wedding favors, especially if there will be children present.
For summer weddings, try a slightly more informal approach to your meal by offering the spread in picnic baskets or garden-party style! Mini picnic baskets or personalized blankets could then be given as a favor. Also, if you want to use bright, bold colors in your flowers or decorations, summer is the best time to do it.
A fall wedding has a more rustic feeling to it. Warm reds, oranges and yellows are best for decorations, and don’t be afraid to ditch some of the flowers for tasteful wheat stalks or gourds among the arrangements. A fun favor could be making homemade cider or jams with your initials on the jar for your guests to enjoy.
Many couples shy away from winter weddings, but it can actually be one of the most intimate seasons for a wedding because it provides such respite from the bitter cold. Deep purples, forest greens and ruby reds are perfect to set a cozy tone, while icy blues and
silver show off winter’s sparkle. Cinnamonscented pinecones with some holly or giant poinsettias make tasteful centerpieces.
Instead of bubbling champagne for the toast, why not embrace winter and raise a mug of hot chocolate or egg nog? It’s delicious and comforting in the cold.
If there will be kids at the reception, set up a table to make their own sparkling snowflakes to sprinkle on tables as decoration or as a souvenir for the kids! As for their parents, send them home with coffee mugs, spiced tea, or wintry-scented candles.
It doesn’t have to be 70 and sunny for the perfect wedding as long as you use Mother Nature to your advantage! B
With a little luck and a killer song list, your friends and family are sure to be dancing the night away at your wedding reception. Serving up a late-night snack is more than just a scrumptious treat—it’s party fuel! With a little creativity, you can make your late night eats something incredibly memorable. Have a group that’s prone to party until dawn? Planning a post-reception after party takes the late-night festivities to a whole new level.
Toward the end of your wedding reception, a late-night snack can serve to keep spirits up and the party going strong. Some folks might need a break from boogying, while others could use a little edible energy boost to sustain
their dancefloor frenzy. Either way, a late-night snack is a delicious way to top off your wedding menu, not to mention a nice way to promote a bit of extra mingling among wedding guests.
It’s a good idea to serve your late-night snack around 11pm, bearing in mind that whatever you choose should be able to be eaten quickly and easily, with little mess and without the hassle of proper plates and utensils. Typical late-night fare tends toward pizza, other comfort foods, childhood favorites with a twist, and bite-sized goodies like sliders, tacos, or popcorn.
With late-night snacks now being nearly as ubiquitous as cocktail hour appetizers, brides and grooms are looking for ways to take their
choice in catering up a notch. Sometimes this can mean going for gourmet or playing up the presentation. For instance, you could serve your favorite fried rice in Asian take-out containers, pair warm cookies with a perfectlysized shot of milk, or pour frothy mini espressos in adorable little glasses.
Still, late-night snacks don’t have to be fancy or doled out on a silver platter in order to be unforgettable. A nacho, poutine, hot dog, or baked potato bar with toppings galore would be yummy and interactive. You might also look to your favorite fast foods for inspiration, or ask your caterer to recreate that crazy-delicious State Fair treat you crave.
When in doubt, make your late-night snack a reflection of you as a couple. Friends and family are sure to love it, and laugh, if your late-night
snack is something like His and Hers favorite homemade sandwiches or bowls of breakfast cereal. Have fun with it!
Want to go really big for your late-night snack? Try asking your favorite food truck to park in front of your venue as a way to highlight some casual hometown cuisine. If you’re getting married on a warm day, it won’t be an issue to have guests step outside to place their orders. The food truck could even create a limited menu of just one or two items to keep the line moving swiftly.
Saying “I do” in a colder climate? You may want to bring the food truck feast indoors. Perhaps a local truck could still cater, or you might consider a smaller food stand rather than a full-on truck. Bottom line, if you have a favorite food truck in
town, your late-night snack is the perfect way to work their scrumptious eats into the day.
Want to keep the night going beyond a midnight snack? An after party gives you the chance to spend quality time with close friends who may be keen to let loose in a less formal environment. The easiest way to throw an after party is to pick a local bar for everyone to meet at. You might pick a place with some local flavor or a spot that holds meaning to you as a couple.
A fun way to approach the after party destination is choosing a scene that’s entirely different from your wedding reception. For instance, if you’re hosting a black tie reception, consider a nearby dive bar complete with pitchers of beer and dancing until dawn. Or say your winter wedding was the height of sophistication—you might take a trip to a tiki bar for a bit of tropical flavor.
If you want to take your after party to the next level, consider reserving a smaller private room at your reception venue or at a new location. You could even hire entertainment, charter a party barge, host a bonfire at your home, or scope out establishments with late-night bowling, karaoke, live music, or arcade games. Depending on your tastes, an after party can be as extravagant or easygoing as you like.
Wherever you choose to host your after party, make sure it’s a convenient distance from your reception venue. Tell folks via word of mouth or post the information to your wedding website. Even if you’re hoping for a small group of best friends, make sure all guests feel welcome. This way, your friends and family will end the evening with delicious food in their bellies and the chance to keep your wedding night alive a little longer. B
quirky, elegant and unforgettable
So you’ve found the guy, found the dress, but you really want your bridal look to scream YOU! Consider adding one or all of the following suggestions into your bridal look on your wedding day.
PERSONALIZE IT: Have a patch made, or even a piece of the gown embroidered with your custom monogram with your new initials and wedding day on it. Make the embroidery blue, so that you have the “something blue” covered. You can also add an image if you would like, instead of a monogram, like a heart or other picture that is special to you. Have the patch or other insignia added to the inside of your gown. This will be something that only you will see, but it adds that extra touch of you on your wedding day. Wearing a veil? Consider having the bottom of the veil embroidered with white or ivory thread. It is simply unforgettable.
HAVE A SURPRISE!: You might want to think about adding a fun layer of fabric under your gown. Have the fabric sewn on the inside of the gown, and get ready for a photo op! If your gown isn’t full enough, then you might consider having a crinoline dyed to your favorite color.
YOUR SHOES: Gone are the days of plain ivory heels, and enter a whole new world of shoes for your wedding day! From cowboy boots to bridal sandals, brides are finding shoes that appeal to them and that express their personality. Have fun with this one, and make sure you get shoes you can wear over and over again!
NOT JUST WHITE: You might be in love with the color pink so why don’t you wear a pink wedding gown? Color is very in-style right now, and you might consider wearing a dress in your favorite color. B
Custom signs add an artistic flourish, a photo op, and the chance to relay messages to guests in a creative fashion. Going DIY saves you money, but working with a professional saves you time and often results in a piece of art you can display in your home.
Chalkboards are perfect for weddings with a rustic vibe, and chalk markers are a game changer for creating gorgeous boards. These markers are designed to write easily and look bright and bold on all kinds of surfaces, not just chalkboards. Seek out hand-lettering artists near you for a flawless, professional piece of word art.
Want to try your own hand at hand-lettering? Make sure the surface is clean before you start writing. To erase, use a clean, damp cloth. If using chalk markers, remember that the ink takes a moment to dry completely, so be careful not to smudge wet ink.
Paint looks great on antique glass window panes, elegant mirrors, or earthy wood boards. Going for the traditional paint-on-canvas look is also lovely, as a hand-painted fabric banner is both boho and beautiful. Try a small “Just Married!” sign to hold between you for a photo op after the “I Do’s,” or have a larger sign painted to adorn the head table with a favorite romantic quote.
Felt boards with plastic lettering, marquee lights, and light boxes like you’d see at a movie
theater, these are all on trend nowadays. A felt board typically has a black backdrop with white uppercase lettering. Smaller boards are perfect for capturing little phrases for a photo op, while larger boards might relay the menu or a longer quote about love and marriage.
With light-up signs, that glorious glow is an added bonus indeed, bringing an extra eyecatching and memorable element to the décor. Marquee lights are best and more affordable when used for shorter phrases. A light box can hold a message with more characters.
Signs can welcome guests to the event, invite people to “pick a seat not a side,” communicate the wedding hashtag, or ask folks to kindly refrain from photography during the ceremony. Use signs for wayfinding, pointing to the direction of cocktail hour, dinner, and photo booth. Signs on the bar can highlight signature cocktails. A large sign can list table assignments for dinner, a time and money saving alternative to placecards. B
Whether you want to celebrate your memorable day with 20 or 600 people, Bartolotta Catering & Events offers the perfect space. Beautiful and unique venues throughout the greater Milwaukee area with incredible views of Lake Park, Lake Michigan, or the city’s skyline offer an excellent opportunity for:
Now that you’re engaged the wheels are turning in your mind and the possibilities for everything just seem endless and overwhelming. Before you get wrapped up in everything, the first thing on a newly engaged woman’s mind is the date. The date is important for the price factor, and determines the expenses to match the season especially if a holiday lands around your set wedding date. You don’t want to go over budget because you forgot Valentine’s Day is in February. Oops!
On average, a wedding costs roughly as much as a new car, and today it’s the bride and groom paying, not the parents. This is a huge financial burden to take on, especially when you are just starting out together. However, there are ways to get help with your wedding. It isn’t necessary to pay for absolutely everything yourself, usually the bride’s family will help with the dress and the groom’s family will help with something like catering. Just don’t depend on them for everything!
If you happen to know anyone in the bridal industry, such as a baker, seamstress, photographer, etc, now is the time to call in the favors. Usually if they’re your friends, they have no problem discounting their work for you or doing your wedding free of charge. If your friends give you a discount or work for free for you, keep this in mind and remember to get them a little something extra as a thank you. This could be anything from a present to a nicer hotel room when they come for your ceremony.
After your parents have helped you some and all your friends have been called up, its time to start crunching numbers. Figure out
At the wedding, the head table is where the bride & groom sit. Depending on the arrangement, some or all attendants & parents may join them. It is usually distinguished from the other tables with a floral arrangement or distinct centerpiece.
A table for just the bride & groom at the focal point of the room. Traditionally, the groom sits to the right of the bride.
A rectangular table at the focal point of the room for the bride, groom, maid of honor, & best man.
This arrangement honors the couple’s parents by sitting them at the head table along with the maid of honor and best man.
1139 S. 70th St. Milwaukee, WI 53214 414-367-7004 thegagemke.com
– Accommodates up to 300 guests
– Large paved parking lot (350+ stalls)
– On-site ceremony space
– Two private suites to get ready
– Double decker patio space with heaters
– Loft space
– Grand staircase
– Indoor lighting features
just how much you can afford without going overboard. Keep in mind you want to include your honeymoon in the budget so that you have somewhere nice to go after all has been said and done! We all want to have the Hollywood budget when it comes to our weddings but sadly we just can’t drop a million dollars when we decide to get married. Unless you win the lottery of course!
Since you probably don’t have a clue how much things actually cost, try looking up some price averages for venues, dresses, cakes, etc. This will give you a good idea of the price point you’re looking at. Next, make a list with these price points and start narrowing down your search in an area such as dresses. Look online for styles you like, then search stores in your area with similar dresses and check the prices. If they’re out of your budget, then find out when trunk shows
are and plan on going early in the morning. After all, to get a good deal you’ll be there most of the day! Since you don’t want to deplete your savings add up what you and your fiancé have collectively. Look at your average price point, then look at what you actually found locally and liked it and it’s price. Add up your rough estimate of your likes. If it’s an eye popping number, don’t freak out! Everyone starts off over budget at first Now that you know what you like and have an idea of all the things you want and need, start thinking of ways to cut corners. For example, if you like a certain flower arrangement and the florist wants and arm, a leg, and an eye, then go to a craft store and try to put together the same arrangement you liked. Usually do it yourself things cost you less overall. Just be prepared to put more time and effort into prepping for
your wedding! If you can copy the arrangement then you can buy the flowers and equipment needed and pre arrange them yourself. If you were set on having real flowers, then call local flower distributors and see if you can get a deal on them. Keep in mind that the flowers should be arranged the day before or the day of if they’re real to ensure that they will be fresh and un-wilted.
There are also many DIY tutorials and guides on the web for your wedding to give you cost saving ideas. For example, invitations and seating cards are a great way to save up! Practice your calligraphy or print invitations/cards yourself at home. Using commonplace items such as fruits, pine cones, vegetables, stones, etc are great ways to save money when it comes to seating cards. All you need to do is etch names directly into
the fruit! After your guests know where they are seated they can eat their seating card!
The reception will probably be one of the most costly events of your wedding. This is in part because of the food, the cake, the dj, the bar, and the place itself. Food is always expensive, so one way to avoid insane food costs is to reduce your amount of guests. Don’t invite everyone you know and their relatives. Invite the essentials such as your families, close friends, and a few others. This will also assure that your locations won’t need as much space and will cost less!
Obviously doing these things are just a taste of ways to save money. The possibilities are only as limited as your creativity! So have fun and let the creative juices flow, ladies!
What are some of your ideas for your wedding to keep your wallet fat and happy? B
Whether you’ve always dreamed of an intimate wedding or have come around to the idea due to the state of the world, micro weddings are a trend that seems poised to stand the test of time. So what is a micro wedding? It’s every bit as significant and special as a traditional wedding, but the guest count only ranges from about 5 to 50 people.
Micro weddings are popular for a number of reasons. On the heels of COVID, a smaller wedding may be a necessity for some. For others, a micro wedding may mean less spotlight and attention. It can also mean less stress, as planning an event for fewer people inevitably means less to keep track of and worry about.
Budget also comes into play, as some brides and grooms would rather not spend their dollars on a big wedding. Opting for a courthouse ceremony followed by a meal at home or at their favorite restaurant with just those nearest and dearest greatly lowers the cost.
On the flip side, some couples opt for a micro wedding so they can go all-out. Think about it: If you have a set budget, consider if you spent it on a party of 200 vs. a party of 50. The smaller party allows you to allocate more budget to doing every inch to the nines, giving those 50 lucky people an experience they’ll never forget.
The elements of a micro wedding will differ from couple to couple. There’s always a smaller guest list, but like we said, the price may vary — and so, too, may the experiences and vendors involved. Although a reception is optional, micro weddings will always need an officiant, witnesses, and a location for the ceremony. This could be someone’s backyard,
the courthouse, a park or garden — the list goes on. Almost always, micro-wedding couples still spring for a photographer.
There are even vendors taking the micro wedding and really running with it. Some venues offer packages for a set price that include use of their space, an officiant, a photographer, seasonal floral, and more.
The idea with these micro wedding packages is to keep it simple. The vendors have done the legwork of coordinating a beautiful little wedding — all the couple has to do is show up!
In the end, one of the best things about a micro wedding is the intimacy. With fewer people to make small talk with, you’re able to get actual quality time with your guests. After all, these are the people that mean the most and the ones you can’t imagine your wedding day without. At a micro wedding, you can enjoy their company — and your new spouse’s company! — without the sense of distraction that can sometimes come with a traditional wedding. Sound pretty heavenly? We think so too. B
With the main event just around the corner, here are some terrific guidelines for a smooth ceremony rehearsal. After that, most couples choose to spend some quality time with close family and friends during the rehearsal dinner. The details of how you do this - who, what, when, where - are up to you. We offer steps to help you pull it all fabulously together.
PICKING A LOCATION. Host your engagement party at a restaurant that caters to celebrations and ask whether they might give you a discount on catering, etc., if you also book your shower or rehearsal dinner with them at the same time.
tissue deodorant stress ball q-tips sunscreen hand sanitizer dental floss baby powder brush/comb lip balm hairspray lotion cologne tweezers nail clipper
What’s the point of rehearsing your marriage ceremony the night before the wedding? There’s so much more to a wedding ceremony than just taking a walk down the aisle. A rehearsal for the entire bridal party and anyone involved in the ceremony is a chance to set the stage and work out any bugs, and to bring your closest friends and relatives together in anticipation of the big day.
A rehearsal also allows you and your bridal party to get comfortable in the ceremony space. You’ll find out where you can all get ready the next day, which entrances to use, and where the bathrooms are — things that are often taken for granted. You’ll also learn any venue rules and get answers to pressing questions, such as, are music and mimosas allowed in the church bridal room? Yes, if you’re getting married in a church, then there are sure to be a few rules. There’s also a lot of symbolism in a religious ceremony, and the rehearsal is an opportunity for the officiant to walk you all through the various traditions and explain their meaning.
playing cards stain remover static-cling spray phone charger portable battery
water drink straws energy drinks protein snacks
nuts & chews candy gum/mints alcohol
BECAUSE IT’S BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN
nail file lint brush shoe polish shave gel aftershave shoe horn extra socks sewing kit safety pins boutonniere pins hem tape copy of vows SORRY
Before your rehearsal and ceremony, there are obvious things to think about such as who will walk the bride down the aisle. But you also have to think about who is escorting the mothers-of, pairing the bridesmaids and groomsman, and the order the couples will proceed down the aisle. The order will vary depending on if you have junior bridesmaids and flower girls and whether you want the groomsmen to escort the bridesmaids down the full length of the aisle or to meet them halfway. And in today’s wedding world, it’s not uncommon to see the bride and groom walking
It’s a lot of responsibility, planning a rehersal dinner, engagement party or day after brunch that promises to blast right by meh to a resounding Aww Yeah
Luckily Punch Bowl Social has a magical combination of elements that create a foodertainment experience and event unlike any other. Book your party now!
down the aisle together – a nice touch if you’re game to shake up tradition.
Once you have the procession order all set, there are still plenty of other details to hammer out. For example: will you need microphones during the ceremony? Is your venue wheelchairaccessible? Depending on your venue, these are the kinds of details that a site manager or a priest will help you consider ahead of time.
Rehearsals are quick, not comprehensive, and are meant to act as an overview so that everyone knows what happens when. Once the rehearsal starts, you won’t be reading through every word of the ceremony. Rather, you’ll be blocking out the words and actions: when the bouquet is handed off and taken back, when
you sit and when you stand, etc. The bride and groom are usually asked to say a few lines just to work out the pace and volume of their vows. If there are any readings, the reader will also rehearse a few lines.
If not all of your key players can be present at the rehearsal, it’s okay. In fact, it is standard practice for the musicians to be absent; if you’ve hired professional musicians or if the church provides a pianist or organist, they already know what to do. It’s also possible that the officiant might not be present at your rehearsal. If this happens, make sure they offer stage directions beforehand, or if the venue has another on-site coordinator, then that person might be able to step in and help. If members of the bridal party can’t make it to the rehearsal, don’t stress! Just
designate another member of the party to fill them in on all the details the next morning.
Be on time and organized. Most rehearsals are allotted just one hour and sometimes a venue has more than one rehearsal on a given night. Remember that everyone’s time is valuable and the rehearsal can’t start until everyone is present.
Practice patience and respect. Don’t get flustered or anxious if there are bugs to work out — after all, that’s why you’re having a rehearsal in the first place. Be sure to respect the venue, especially if it’s a religious establishment.
As you’re going through the stages of the ceremony, ask questions if you don’t know
what to do or if there’s something you don’t understand. Bottom line, don’t be afraid to ask!
After finishing up the ceremony rehearsal, it’s customary for the bride and groom and/or their parents to host a dinner for all involved. This is a fun pre-wedding event that kicks off the festive spirit and can be as simple or extravagant as you like. You could rent a party room at a nearby restaurant or just invite everyone back to your parents’ house for homemade eats. It’s up to you! Just have fun with it and keep it within your budget. After all, everyone has your fabulous wedding to look forward to the very next day! B
The Confetti Lounge 17700 W Capitol Dr., Brookfield 414-552-3880 theconfettilounge.com – 50
Eldr + Rime 2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa 414-867-9158 remmilwaukee.com 57 48
Hubbard Park Lodge, Riverclub & Beer Garden 3565 North Morris Blvd., Shorewood 414-273-8300 hubbardparklodge.com escapetomilwaukee.com 58 175
Maison La Belle 731 N. Lake Rd., Oconomowoc 262-236-7292 maisonlabelle.com 52 50
Maggiano’s 2500 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa 414-978-1000 maggianos.com 64 130
Mason Street Grill 425 E. Mason St, Milwaukee 414-298-3131 masonstreetgrill.com – 20-50
Milwaukee Chop House 633 North 5th St, Milwaukee 414-226-2467 chophouse411.com – 20-50
Pizza Man 2597 North Downer Ave., Milwaukee 11500 West Burleigh St., Wauwatosa
414-988-1554 414-988-1554 414-988-1554 pizzamanwi.com 66 See Website
Punch Bowl Social 1122 Vel R Phillips, Milwaukee 414-204-7544 punchbowlsocial.com 63 350+
Rodizio Grill 777 N. Water St., Milwaukee 407-319-0533 rodizio.com 65 50
Saz’s State House 5539 W. State St., Milwaukee 414-453-2410 sazs.com – 10-60
The attire of the groom, best man and ushers should complement the bride’s dress. The men need not dress identically. The groom’s selection will depend upon his coloring and build, while the bride and her attendant’s dress color and style, will depend upon the season, time of day and personal taste. Darker colors have a slimming effect. Ties, cummerbunds or suspenders that are the same color as the bridesmaid’s dresses will bring the entire wedding party together.
If the men in the wedding party are identically dressed, then you may wish to set the groom apart. A slightly different boutonniere or neckwear accomplishes this effectively.
Consult a menswear professional for ideas and to discuss what is available and most appropriate. Tuxedos should be reserved three months in
advance and all measurements taken at least three weeks prior to the wedding. Out-of-town groomsmen can have their measurements taken at a men’s formal wear store near them and then forward to the formal wear store where you have reserved your tuxedos.
Rented formal wear usually includes a jacket, vest or cummerbund, pants, suspenders, shirt, cufflinks, studs and a tie. Usually, shoes are rented from the same store to maintain consistency.
Find out when the tuxedos may be picked up and when they must be returned. Have all the men try them on a few days beforehand for last minute adjustments. The groom also has the option of purchasing his tuxedo or having it tailormade. Purchasing a tux gives the groom a suit of permanent pride for other formal occasions. B
You’ve said the “I do’s,” kissed the bride, and now it’s time to party!
You want your reception to be unforgettable. The venue itself, the food, the ambiance, and the overall guest experience determines just how your reception will be remembered for years to come. Where to host your reception is a huge, day-defining decision. There’s so much to consider. Luckily, we’re here to help!
SET THE MOOD. For a sensuous pause before a high-energy party, have a small jazz quartet set the tone with a wine and micro-beer tasting served with cheese selections.
• All Counties are by appointments only.
• Apply in County in which either is a resident. License may be used anywhere in the state.
• Both must apply in person. Certified birth certificate is required.
• Proof of residence is required. (drivers license, utility bill, etc.)
• Apply no later than 8 working days (Milwaukee County), 6 working days (Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Waukesha Counties) prior to wedding date — two weeks prior is recommended.
• Non-residents (both out-of-state) must apply in the county they will be married. License will only be valid in that county.
• Each party must provide the Clerk’s office with their social security card.
• License is valid 30 days from date issued.
• Legal age is 18. If younger, you must bring a certified consent form (available at the Office of the County Clerk) from both parents or legal guardian.
• If divorced, copy of judgement of divorce, court annulment or death certificate. 6 month waiting period.
• Most counties require name, address and phone number of the person performing the ceremony. Location and date may also be required.
• Some counties require documents not in English be translated and notarized.
Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. It is important that you verify all information before making any wedding or travel plans.
(CASH ONLY, NO REFUNDS)
Jefferson $110 Kenosha $100 Milwaukee $110 Ozaukee $100
JEFFERSON Office of the Clerk Courthouse
311 S. Center Ave., Rm 109 Jefferson, WI 53549 (920) 674-7140 co.jefferson.wi.us
KENOSHA County Admin. Bldg. 1010 56th St. Kenosha, WI 53140 (262) 653-2552 co.kenosha.wi.us
MILWAUKEE Courthouse 901 N. 9th St., Rm 105 Milwaukee, WI 53233 (414) 278-4070 milwaukee.org
OZAUKEE Administration Bldg. 121 W. Main St., Rm 128 Port Washington, WI 53074 (262) 284-8110 co.ozaukee.wi.us
Racine $100 Walworth $100 Washington $110 Waukesha $110
RACINE
Racine Courthouse
730 Wisconsin Ave., 1st Fl. Racine, WI 53403 (262) 636-3121 (800) 242-4202 co.racine.wi.us
WALWORTH Office of the Clerk Walworth Government Ctr. 100 W. Walworth St., Rm 101 Elkhorn, WI 53121 (262) 741-4241 co.walworth.wi.us
WASHINGTON Office of the Clerk
432 E. Washington St., Rm 2027 West Bend, WI 53095 (262) 335-4301 (262) 335-4735 co.washington.wi.us
WAUKESHA
1320 Pewaukee Rd., Rm 120 Administration Bldg. Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 548-7010 waukeshacounty.gov
Make sure you’re both on the same page regarding the type of wedding you both envision. The options for ceremony and reception locations have increased dramatically over the past decade. Here are examples.
• RUSTIC STYLE: Barns, farms, country inns, and ranches.
• TRADITIONAL/CLASSIC STYLE: Ballrooms, banquet halls, hotels, country clubs, or community centers. These are often all-inclusive!
• NATURAL/OPEN AIR STYLE: Waterfront, forest, vineyard, city park, or other locations where Mother Nature’s beauty shines. Also consider a Plan B for inclement weather.
• NON-TRADITIONAL STYLE: Museums, zoos, planetariums, and antique stores.
• URBAN/INDUSTRIAL STYLE: Downtown lofts, art galleries, and warehouses.
• INTIMATE STYLE: Unique spaces catered toward small weddings — historic homes, a small party room at your favorite restaurant, or a tent in your parents’ backyard (tented weddings can work for other styles, too).
Once you’ve settled on your reception’s aesthetic and the type of spaces you wish to explore, it’s time to get to work. Here are the first three factors to consider during your hunt.
GUEST COUNT AND BUDGET. These sound like two separate entities but you can only afford to host the number of people that your budget allows; therefore, your budget will determine your wedding’s headcount. That, or you need to increase your budget to accommodate more guests’. Once you finalize your budget and total number of potential guests, this will quickly eliminate any outlying reception venues: venues that are too expensive or too small.
WEDDING DATE. Being committed to a particular date - perhaps it’s your parents’ anniversary or a holiday weekend - this will also narrow down your options. If a reception site doesn’t have your date available, move on. If it does, know that nothing is final until you’ve signed a contract and made a deposit. Once your decision is made, it’s critical to officially secure the space as soon as possible. Some choice venues are booked one to two years in advance, particularly in popular months.
ON-SITE VS. OFF-SITE. Most on-site locations provide most of the goods and services needed for your reception: catering, beverages, tables, chairs, tableware, linens, and serving staff. Such locations are typically hotels, ballrooms, private clubs, restaurants and more, which usually have an experienced wedding coordinator on staff to assist. These facilities usually charge on a per-person basis and have a minimum guest requirement.
Off-site locations mostly offer the use of the reception space only. You supply the caterer, furnishings, décor, waitstaff and bartenders, and everything in between. Such locations range from open-concept urban lofts to tented receptions.
The responsibility of coordinating your own reception goods and services might sound like a headache to some brides, and to others, it’s an opportunity to fully personalize their day. Off-site venues are often a blank slate, allowing you to furnish and dress up the space as you like, along with more flexibility regarding food, beverages, and timing. Catering and rental providers may help with coordinating as well. There are pros and cons to both on- and off-site venues — what matters is what’s right for you and your wedding!
Below are seven details to consider as you visit and evaluate reception venues.
LOCATION. Will your wedding ceremony be at the same location as your reception? This option has become more common since it’s convenient and assures more guests at the ceremony. If so, does the property have a separate area for ceremonies? If not, how do they handle the turnaround? Is there an area for cocktails and appetizers in between to bridge the time?
Consider the distance between the ceremony and reception locations. Is it more than a 30-minute drive? That’s asking a lot of your guests. If the distance to your reception is lengthy, if the place is difficult to find, or if the spot is inconvenient (say, located near a baseball stadium on game day), transportation should be provided.
SIZE AND LAYOUT. You’ve already eliminated sites that are too small for your guest list, but you
should still make sure your friends and family have plenty of room to mix and mingle, rather than bump shoulders. Will the entire reception take place in one room, or will there be a separate space for cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing? As you look at spaces, think about where to situate the tables, dance floor, DJ, etc.
PRIVACY. Public spaces such as county parks won’t close for your reception. Bear in mind that a wandering local might stumble upon your party! Or if your venue has multiple event spaces (such as a hotel with several ballrooms), find out if there will be another party going on at the same time as yours. Make sure there is enough separation between the event spaces, so the two parties don’t interfere.
PARKING. Confirm that there is ample, welllighted, and convenient parking for your
From a large traditional wedding to a smaller intimate celebration, we’ve got a wedding package to bring your vision to life.
View our wedding packages at WHIRLYBALL.COM/WEDDINGS
guests. If there isn’t, find out if a valet or shuttle service is available.
TECHNICAL DETAILS. Whether you’re planning to have a DJ or live band, ask about possible restrictions on the type, volume, or duration of music. Confirm that there’s adequate power and electrical outlets for speakers, mixers, and amplifiers. Acoustics is another consideration. It’s not uncommon for a venue’s coordinator to invite future brides and grooms to stop by a scheduled wedding to get a feel for sound levels and acoustics. If this is a real concern for you, just ask if you can do a drop-in. Odds are the site coordinator will be welcoming.
ROOM DÉCOR. Sites can range from modern and dramatic to rather neutral. Pay attention to the permanent decorations and fixtures. Do the flooring, wall color, window treatments,
and artwork suit the style and season of your wedding? Is it a room with a view? If photography is of great importance to you, search online for professional photos from weddings staged in the space. Does it photograph well?
SERVICES OFFERED. With each site you visit, note what’s included in the rental price. Whether it’s big things like catering and waitstaff or details like candles and breath mints in the bathroom, it pays to get those details up front. Also bear in mind that the included services greatly impact whether a reception site fits within your budget. An affordable venue that doesn’t include any furnishings, for instance, might not be so affordable in the end.
Once your reception location and details are locked in, the remaining decisions will flow a bit easier. B
The United Stated Supreme Court announced in January 2015 that it will decide whether the Constitution mandates samesex marriage, and whether individual states are permitted to limit it. What does this mean? It’s possible that any remaining gay marriage bans might not be relevant much longer. U.S. citizens nationwide will be able to marry whoever they love, paving the way for lots of same-sex couples to finally celebrate a wedding day of their own. Here are some considerations for same-sex couples planning a wedding.
First, remember that there’s no right or wrong way to have a wedding. Create an experience that speaks to you, and don’t feel confined by the typical wedding’s structure and traditions. Some same-sex couples hold their ceremony in a church while others are married at their reception location. You’ll see two brides in gowns, two brides in suits, or a combination of the two. You might find two grooms walking down the aisle hand-in-hand or with their parents. It’s true that although the standards of certain wedding etiquette should be observed, gay marriages are a relatively new frontier for U.S. couples so there is unlimited room for creativity.
When it comes time to hire vendors for your wedding day, most foster an atmosphere of acceptance and love, adding to the happiness of the day. If for any reason, you’re not comfortable with a particular vendor, then move on. There are websites out there whose sole purpose is to link gay couples to gayfriendly wedding vendors. B
Recommended Seats: 6
Space per Person: Approx. 28”
Tablecloth Size: 90” Round (21” drop) 108” Round (to the floor)
Recommended Seats: 8
Space per Person: Approx. 25.5”
Tablecloth Size: 90” Round (15” drop) 120” Round (to the floor)
Recommended Seats: 10
Space per Person: Approx. 25.2”
Tablecloth Size: 108” Round (18” drop) 132” Round (to the floor)
Recommended Seats: 8
Space per Person: Approx. 25.5”
Tablecloth Size: 60” x 102” (15” drop) 90” x 132” (to the floor)
Recommended Seats: 10
Space per Person: Approx. 25.2”
Tablecloth Size: 60” x 102” (15” drop) 90” x 132” (to the floor)
Our fur babies can feel so much a part of the family, it’s natural to want to include them in your celebration of love. With well-behaved pups in particular, it can be tempting to bring them into the wedding day festivities, perhaps as an adorable ring bearer. But professionals in the industry would caution against putting Spot in the spotlight.
engagement session or wedding photos earlier in the day. If you feature your fur baby in your engagement pictures, you could use the photos of your little family either for your save-the-dates, on your wedding website, or displayed at your wedding reception. Some couples take their odes to their pets to an even more artistic level, commissioning a custom drawing or painting of their furry friends to frame at their reception in a fancy way.
It’s also easy to include your pet’s likeness on paper goods for the ceremony or reception. Think about how your pet might liven up your programs, seating chart, escort cards, or cocktail napkins. It doesn’t have to be a literal photo of your fur baby, rather it could be an elegant ink stamp or letterpress detail.
No matter how well-trained your dog may be at home or even at bigger family gatherings, a wedding is a whole other animal. When there are 100 or more guests involved, even the bestbehaved pets are likely to act in unpredictable ways. You also have to consider who would be in charge of your pet. It’s likely to be a friend or family member, and that person would be obligated to leave the wedding to drop your fur baby at home at some point. It’s a big responsibility. Ask the pros, and they’ll advise against pets playing an active role in your wedding day.
Instead, get smartly creative with how you include your pet in your wedding. Consider looping them in for photos only, whether it’s your
Another option is to get inspired by your pet when it comes to food, drink, party favors, or other fun extras. You might name a signature drink after your furry friend, hand out favors from your pet for guests to take home to their fur babies, or print paper masks of your pet’s face as a photobooth prop. Need a wedding cake topper? You could have one custom made to feature the two of you and your pet. Or say, for example, you have a beagle: track down a beagle cake topper.
You might also incorporate your pets into your fashion. Consider custom socks for the groom printed with your pet’s face, animal cufflinks, or an embroidered pocket square with your pet’s silhouette. For brides, you might attach a small photo, enamel pin, or charm to your bouquet that represents your pet, so it’s like they’re with you as you walk down the aisle. In the end, keeping your pet in your heart is the most important thing. B
Whether you’re framing the moment you say “I do,” giving guests a pretty spot to snap a photo, or sprucing up your reception space with something that’s more your style, backdrops might come into play at any number of times throughout your wedding day. Here are some ideas for backdrops both subtle and show-stopping.
BOTANICAL BEAUTIES – From black tie to boho, flowers and greenery go with any style of wedding. If your flower budget allows, incorporating lush botanicals into your wedding backdrop ensures a stunner. Consider a literal wall of flowers or a sculpted, sky-high hedge of greenery—the kind you’d find in a perfectlymanicured English garden. For slightly less
all-over wall coverage, a simple frame lined with vertically-hanging garland can be striking. Have a rustic wooden wall? See if you can attach strategically-placed planters for some leafy flair and dimension.
SHAPELY FRAMES – Metal or wooden, curved or squared-off, airy archways and on-trend hoops are more of a frame than a full-on backdrop. Yet they serve the same purpose: lending style and calling attention to special moments on your wedding day. Shapely frames are best-suited to ceremony vows and reception photo ops. Usually, they’re adorned with foliage and/or draped fabric. The nice thing about these frames: they allow you to save money on full-coverage flourishes, while still bringing a photogenic accent to the scene.
CRAFTY CREATIONS – Feeling crafty? Create a wall of paper flowers in various sizes and colors. Try your hand at weaving decorative macramé to hang from a plain wood frame. Enlist a professional to hand-letter your last name or a favorite phrase on a canvas, wooden, or chalkboard backdrop. These personal, handmade touches make for a wedding backdrop that’s truly one of a kind.
ILLUMINATED LOVELIES – Let there be light! A curtain of airy fabric looks ethereal and enchanting when mixed with strings of warm white fairy lights. Hanging marquee letters or a custom neon sign bring some boldness and electric edge. Having an outdoor wedding? Commandeer a tall tree and suspend bulbs from the branches for a romantic, natural photo op. You really can’t go wrong with a little bit of light.
WONDROUS WALLS – Look around. Does your ceremony or reception venue have a blank wall you could adorn, a spot with exposed brick, a fireplace and mantle you could decorate, or a special nook with gorgeous wallpaper or stained glass? Though this backdrop isn’t portable, it can still make for a marvelous kind of photo booth— one that you don’t even have to pay extra for.
PRETTY PROPS – Take stock of what you, your friends, and family have at home that could create a photo-worthy scene. A painted room divider, a series of reclaimed doors or windows, or a gorgeous tapestry are all imaginative ways to create an eye-catching backdrop for your big day. You might also create a photo-worthy vignette with furniture, lighting, and accessories that suit the style of your wedding. Dare to think outside the box for a backdrop worthy of being front and center. B
SEE PAGE CAPACITY NO. BANQUET ROOMS SEPARATE CEREMONY AREA OUTSIDE CATERERS PERMITTED OUTDOOR SPACE BRIDAL SUITE/GROOMS ROOM
DOWNTOWN
1903 Weddings
400 W. Canal St., Milwaukee 877-HD-MUSEUM 1903events.com 11 75450 3 • •
BacchusA Bartolotta Restaurant 925 E. Wells, Milwaukee 414-765-1166 bartolottas.com/weddings 54 25225 3 • •
Bartolotta
Catering & Events at Discovery World 500 Harbor Dr., Milwaukee 414-765-8610 bartolottas.com/weddings
Bartolotta
Catering & Events at The Grain Exchange 225 E. Michigan, Milwaukee 414-727-6980 bartolottas.com/weddings
Bartolotta Catering & Events at The Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St, Milwaukee 414-223-2800 bartolottas.com/weddings
Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro 3133 E. Newberry Blvd., Milwaukee 414-962-6300 bartolottas.com
Bradley Symphony Center
212 W Wisconsin Ave Milwaukee 414-226-7820 resonancefoodco.com
54 50800 4 • •
Charles Allis Art Museum
SEE PAGE CAPACITY NO. BANQUET
1801 N. Prospect Ave., Milwaukee 414-278-8295 charlesallis.org 21 120 1 • • •
The Cooperage 822 S Water St Milwaukee 414-763-4935 cooperagemke.com 20 200 1 • • •
Corvina Wine Company 6038 W. Lincoln Ave., West Allis 414-546-3407 corvinawinecompany.com 14 75 1 • • • •
The Factory on Barclay 1120 South Barclay St., Milwaukee 262-675-4734 thefactoryonbarclay.com 27 300 2 • • • •
54 325500 1
The Fitzgerald 1119 N. Marshall St., Milwaukee 414-242-8143 thefitzgeraldmke.com 71 200 3 • • •
54 301500 5 • •
The Gage 1139 S. 70th St., West Allis 414-367-7004 thegagemke.com 56 300 1 • • •
54 40300 4 • •
The George & Madcap Lounge Walker’s Point, Milwaukee 414-256-8765 Thegeorgemilwaukee.com
49 & 88-89 200 3 • •
Harbor House 550 N. Harbor Dr., Milwaukee 414-395-4900 bartolottas.com/weddings 54 45220 2 • •
29 300 2 • •
Hilton Milwaukee City Center 509 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee 414-390-3802 marcusweddings.com
SEE PAGE CAPACITY NO. BANQUET ROOMS SEPARATE CEREMONY AREA OUTSIDE CATERERS PERMITTED OUTDOOR SPACE BRIDAL SUITE/GROOMS ROOM
500 10 • •
Hyatt Regency 333 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee 414-276-1234 hyattregencymilwaukee.com 41 25-600 3 •
The Iron Horse Hotel 500 W. Florida St., Milwaukee 414-831-4600 theironhorsehotel.com 18 150 2 • • •
Jan Serr Studio 2155 N. Prospect Ave., Milwaukee 414-256-8765 janserrevents@sazs.com 88-89 450 1 • •
Loft on Broadway 177 N. Broadway, Milwaukee 262-675-4734 theloftonbroadway.com 27 200 1 • •
Marcus Center for the Performing Arts 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee 414-276-2030 sazamas.com
88-89 205,000 7 • •
Milwaukee Art Museum 700 N. Art Museum Dr., Milwaukee 414-224-3287 mam.org/wedding 53 450 4 •
Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee 414-256-5432 milwaukeezoo.org 39 550 1 • • •
The Pfister Hotel 424 E. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee 414-390-3802 marcusweddings.com 20-650 4 • •
Pizza Man - Milwaukee 2597 N. Downer Ave., Milwaukee 414-988-1554 pizzamanwi.com 66 75 4
Pizza Man - Wauwatosa 11500 W. Burleigh St., Wauwatosa 414-988-1554 pizzamanwi.com 66 75 5
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino 1721 W. Canal St., Milwaukee 414-847-8600 paysbig.com
Renaissance Milwaukee West 2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa 414-771-2300 renmilwaukee.com
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel 139 E Kilbourn Avenue Milwaukee 414-276-8686 saintkatesarts. com/weddings
Sonesta Milwaukee West 10499 Innovation Dr., Wauwatosa 414-475-9500 sonesta.com/us/wisconsin/ wauwatosa/sonestamilwaukee-west-wauwatosa
255 550 3 •
57 300 4 • • • •
30 300 2 • •
22 300 3 • • •
South Second 838 S. 2nd St., Milwaukee 414-256-8765 southsecondmke.com 88-89 250 2 • • •
Story Hill Firehouse 407 N Hawley Rd., Milwaukee 414-477-5813 storyhillfirehouse.com 76 150 2 • • • •
Tripoli Shrine Temple 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee 414-933-4700 tripolishrinecenter.com 10 50-450 2 • •
71 350 1 • • •
SEE PAGE CAPACITY NO. BANQUET ROOMS SEPARATE CEREMONY AREA OUTSIDE CATERERS PERMITTED OUTDOOR SPACE BRIDAL SUITE/GROOMS ROOM
Villa Terrace Art Museum 2220 N. Terrace Ave., Milwaukee 414-271-3656, ext 2 villaterrace.org 21 120 1 • • • •
War Memorial Center 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., Milwaukee 414-273-5533 warmemorialcenter.org 47 50-300 1 • • •
1896 Room 6996 Pennsylvania St., Oconomowoc 262-269-9095 160 1 • • •
Broadlands Golf Club 18 Augusta Way, North Prairie 262-392-6320 broadlandsgolfclub.com 32 50-250 1 • • •
The Carriage House at the Club at Lac La Belle 6996 Pennsylvania St., Oconomowoc 262-269-9095 carriagehouseatlaclabelle.com
79 240 1 • • •
Chivaree on Park N8345 Park St., Ixonia 262-354-4848 mychivaree.com 20 350 1 • • • •
The Cupola Barn N88 W35490 Mapleton Rd., Oconomowoc 262-617-4038 cupolabarn.com 19 200 1 • • • •
Delafield Brewhaus 3832 Hillside Dr., Delafield 262-646-7821 delafield-brewhaus.com 42 10-200 3 • •
Delafield Hotel 415 Genesee St., Delafield 262-333-0209 delafieldhotel.com
Inside Front Cover 70-300 2 • • •
fête 500 E. Summit Ave., Wales 262-528-3383 feteofwales.com 23 300 1 • • • •
Golden Mast W349 N5293 Lacy’s Lane, Okauchee 262-567-7047 goldenmastinn.com 75 300 2 • •
The Hay Loft W2765 East Gate Drive, Watertown 414-333-8511 hayloftbarn.com 21 300 2 • • •
Historic Courthouse 1893 916 N. East Ave., Downtown Waukesha 262-574-9170 courthouse1893.com 73 300 1 • •
The Ingleside Hotel 2810 Golf Rd., Pewaukee 262-547-0201 theinglesidehotel.com 13 500 7
Maison LaBelle 731 N. Lake Rd., Oconomowoc 262-236-7292 maisonlabelle.com 42 150 1
Milford Hills W5670 French Rd., Johnson Creek 920-699-2249 milfordhills.com 15 225 2
Oconomowoc Community Ctr 220 W. Wisconsin Ave., Oconomowoc 262-569-2190 oconomowoc-wi.gov/ communitycenter
81 230 4
Red Circle Inn N44 W33013 Watertown Plank Rd., Nashotah 262-367-4883 redcircleinn.com 18 240 2
Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield 375 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield 262-364-1100 SheratonMilwaukeeBrookfield.com
Tuscan Hall Venue & Catering
35 550 4
409 Delafield St., Waukesha 262-292-1322 tuscanhallwi.com 49 200 1
SEE PAGE CAPACITY NO. BANQUET ROOMS SEPARATE CEREMONY AREA OUTSIDE CATERERS PERMITTED OUTDOOR SPACE BRIDAL SUITE/GROOMS ROOM
Watertown Country Club 1340 N. Water St., Watertown 920-261-5009 watertowncc.com 50 200 1 •
Waukesha Parks: EB Shurts Building 810 W. College Ave., Waukesha 262-522-2953 ci.waukesha.wi.us
256 120200 1 •
Waukesha Parks: Rotary Building 1150 Baxter St., Waukesha 262-522-2953 ci.waukesha.wi.us 256 120200 1 • •
Weddings by Whirly Ball 185 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield 262-786-7777 whirlyball.com/weddings 74 250 1 •
Western Lakes Golf Club W287 N1963 Oakton Rd., Pewaukee 262-961-9796 sazs.com westernlakes.com
88-89 50-400 2
Bavarian Bierhaus 700 West Lexington Blvd., Glendale 414-914-1752 thebavarianbierhaus.com 43 350 6
Chandelier Ballroom 150 Jefferson Ave., Hartford 262-673-4946 chandelierballroom.com 223 500 2
Davian’s Catering & Events N56 W16300 Silver Spring Dr., Menomonee Falls. 262-781-3333 davians.com 44 300 2
Foundry 45 9480 US-45, Kewaskum 262-808-6844 foundry-45.com 81 350 1
Hubbard Park Lodge, Riverclub & Beer Garden 3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood 414-273-8300 hubbardparklodge.com escapetomilwaukee.com
58 175 2
Schauer Arts & Activities Center 147 N. Rural St., Hartford 262-670-0560 schauercenter.org/ourfacility 222 20-225 1 •
Terrace 167 3210 Hwy 167, Richfield 262-623-6588 terrace167.com 223 100350 1 • • •
Timmer’s Resort 5151 Timmer Bay Rd., West Bend 414-988-1554 fstreethospitality.com 250 3 • •
West Bend Country Club 5858 Highway Z, West Bend 262-334-9541 westbendcc.com 80 250 5
Creekside Conference Center 1900 W. Creekside Crossing Circle, Oak Creek 414-375-4640 creeksideconferencecenter.com
48 300 1 • • •
The DeKoven Center 600 Caron Butler Dr., Racine 262-633-6401 dekovencenter.org 33 225 2 • •
The Farm at Dover 26060 Washington Ave., Dover 773-802-6351 thefarmatdover.com 9 160 1 • •
Meyers Restaurant & Bar 4260 S. 76th St., Greenfield 414-321-4400 ext 1 meyers.restaurant/banquet 93 200 4 •
Polish Center of Wisconsin 6941 S. 68th St., Franklin 414-529-2140 polishcenterofwisconsin.org 50 300 1
GREATER LAKE GENEVA AREA
Beloit Club 2327 South Riverside Dr., Beloit 608-466-5397 beloitclub.com beloitweddings.com
82 250 1 • •
The Cove of Lake Geneva 111 Center Street., Lake Geneva 262-249-9460 coveoflakegeneva.com 159 200 2 • • •
Hawk’s View 7377 Krueger Road, Lake Geneva 877-429-5788 hawksviewgolfclub.com 165 350 3 • • •
Hotel Goodwin 500 Public Ave., Beloit 608-466-5397 hotelgoodwin.com beloitweddings.com 82 50 1 • • •
Ironworks Hotel 500 Pleasant St., Beloit 608-466-5397 ironworkshotelbeloit.com beloitweddings.com 82 200 1 • • •
Lake Geneva Cruise Line Rivera Docks 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva 262-248-6206 cruiselakegeneva.com 156 200 8 • • •
Lake Lawn Resort 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan 262-725-9218 lakelawnresort.com 163 400 3 • •
Pier 290 1 Liechty Dr., Williams Bay 262-245-2100 pier290.com/event-space/ 156 300 3 • •
The Treasury 303 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan 312-720-5185 thetreasurydelavan.com 160 185 1 • •
degrootfilmco.com
• May I see photographs of other receptions held here?
• Where will we have access? Are there restrictions?
• Is there ample parking for guests?
• Do you provide a sound system, AV or PA system?
• Are there any restrictions on decor, photography, videography, smoking or bar service?
• Will you provide valet, coat check, restroom, bar and door attendants?
• Is there an onsite caterer? Are we required to use him/her?
• Are there adequate restrooms that are handicap accessible?
• Are there adequate electrical outlets for the entertainer?
• Could other events be scheduled the same day?
• Is there a certain time when we must leave?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
Western Lakes Golf Club South Second
Katie Schubert Photography
Citrine Pine Photography
The George and Madcap Lounge
Last year’s trends haven’t gone away; they’re just pitched toward health & social responsibility. Luckily, catering services have raised the bar on every aspect of wedding cuisine creating personal, memorable, and delicious meals.
BUDGET WISELY. Don’t forget to include taxes and gratuities in your budget! It can be a large chunk of your food and beverage costs.
As couples get more adventurous with their cuisines, caterers are offering more bold flavors, meaningful meals, and interactive experiences. From grazing tables to lite bits to gourmet tacos, there are so many options for creativity and personalization
Ethnic cuisine is a great way to bring a little flavor to your reception. Take your guests around the world with a variety of food stations. Think about hosting each of your favorite meals. The more you embrace what makes you unique, the more memorable your wedding will be. Food trucks are another popular way to up the fun factor, and late-night snacks like popcorn, pizza, or grilled cheese sliders are a huge hit.
Add Mocktails to the Menu. Planners are seeing a trend that attendees are cutting back on cocktails. Serving zero-proof drinks that have the same fizz, color and flavor lets your guests still feel like they’re drinking something festive and can reduce the risk of intoxication.
In recent years, there’s also been an emphasis not only on unique meals, but locally sourced, quality ingredients. Couples like to support local purveyors in their community, as well as enjoy the freshness of a farm-to-table feast.
Once you secure a reception site, your catering search can begin. Some reception locations require that you use their in-house caterer or banquet services, which makes your choice simple. This usually applies to venues like hotels and country clubs. If your reception location allows you to bring in an independent caterer, you still might have to choose from a preapproved list.
As you call caterers, make sure to have as much information as possible - your wedding date, time, approximate number of guests, and whether you’d like a sit-down, family style, food stations or buffet-style meal. If you already have some ideas for your menu or any specific limitations (i.e. vegetarian or gluten free), let the caterer know. Ask to see sample wedding menus and references.
Now it’s time to factor in your wedding’s style and degree of formality. Think about the vibe your wedding — is it a classic ballroom affair or a rustic outdoor bash? Do you want the food to be posh or playful? Such details will help a caterer determine what they can offer that falls in line with your vision. Don’t be afraid to disclose your wedding budget as it will make the process easier.
When you finally narrow down your list of prospective caterers, it’s time for the fun part — tastings! Speak up during your tastings and don’t be afraid to ask if they can tweak something to your tastes. This is your day and your meal, and any good caterer will be pleased to work with your wishes as much as they can.
Gather inspiration from magazines and websites, think about weddings you’ve attended, and ask friends for favorites and failures. Consult your caterer and trust them. They’ve seen lots of weddings and know what works best for the number of people, time of day, and location, so take their professional advice to heart.
Facilities with in-house catering departments may have a minimum charge or set-up fee, while an independent caterer will usually work within any reasonable budget. Keep in mind that buffets are usually priced higher, since they’ll have to account for a little more per person.
Caterers usually require your final guest count one week before the wedding. This is the number of people you’ll actually be charged for. Include meals for wedding-related personnel, such as the DJ and photographer. If cost is an issue, ask your caterer about more casual meals for vendors.
Finally, make sure to ask what extras are included in the catering cost. Find out if your caterer will provide table linens, plates, glasses, crystal, silverware, and serving pieces.
Your caterer will give you their opinion, but a safe bet is one server for every 10 to 12 guests for sit-down, and two servers for every 50 guests for buffet. A full open bar will require more help, one bartender for every 60 guests.
Sign a contract with your caterer only after you have all the details spelled out: date, time, address of site, food items by course, beverages and bar guidelines, number of guests covered, provisions for special meals, time of cocktail hour, time meal is served, contact people, number of wait staff and bartenders, linens, terms of payment, and liability insurance. There will probably be an advance deposit when you sign the contract — and don’t forget to check the cancellation policy. B
• Specializing in Weddings, Fundraisers, Themed Events, Wine Tastings, and more.
• Quality, professional service from licensed bartenders.
• We work with any theme, occasion, or event in a casual or formal environment.
Are you incorporating this long-standing tradition into your wedding? A great new trend is to take elements of your mom’s wedding dress and create a custom robe for when you’re getting ready. A beautiful accent for photos and something special to hold onto and remind you of a woman that means so much to you!
You’ve hired professional photographers, caterers, musicians, and videographers to make your wedding day an unforgettable one. Don’t overlook everyone’s favorite pro: the bartender!
Not only can you count on knowledgeable, speedy drink service for your guests, but a professional bartender will handle the nitty gritty, like the bar’s inventory and shopping list. You won’t have to trouble yourself with glassware, ice, mixers, or garnishes — just sit back, relax, and enjoy your professionallypoured cocktail.
But it’s more than meticulous drink mixing: Like other wedding pros, bartenders are artists. Drinks are garnished just-so, and they’re able to craft cocktails based on individual guest’s preferences. You can also work with your bartender to create one or more signature drinks for your wedding.
Before hiring a professional bartender for your wedding, do your research. First, inquire with your venue and caterer. Some have restrictions on who’s allowed to serve alcohol on site. Others require that the venue or caterer provide the alcohol, as opposed to purchasing it off site.
How many bartenders do you need? Check your guest count. A general rule is 75 people per bartender. When budgeting, figure two to three drinks per person during cocktail hour and one drink per person, per hour, for the rest of the night.
To determine whether or not a professional bartender is the right fit for your wedding, meet with a professional near you! B
Typically
Typically serves 75% wine and 25% beer.
If you don’t have the budget to turn every guest’s place setting into a work of art, don’t hesitate to upgrade where it counts. Simplify your place settings for the majority of tables, but do your sweetheart table or king’s table up to the nines. After all, your table is the focus of not only your guests’ attention, but the vast majority of your photos. Don’t hesitate to go the extra mile for yourselves. After all the work you put into making this wedding a beautiful one, you deserve to dine at the table of your dreams.
abigailmiles.com amandaketterhagenphotography.com
Colored chargers are a great place to start. Chargers are larger plates not intended for food, rather the dinner plates sit on top of the chargers. Their main purpose is to add to the visual effect of the table. Two other easy ways to give your place setting a boost are napkins and glassware. Consider choosing a napkin color that reflects your wedding palette. Or, if you have the budget, swapping plain glasses for colorful vintage goblets is an easy way to bring some lovely life to your place settings.
First, what is a place setting? It’s the table-top set of plates, cutlery, glasses, napkin, and more provided to a guest at a meal. Why are place settings important? For starters, they hint at what’s to come. A salad plate indicates that greens are imminent, and a champagne glass lets guests know complimentary bubbles are on the menu.
Place settings also make a table look lush and elegant, especially when crafted with thoughtful consideration. There are lots of layers that can go into a place setting. It might be bare bones with just the necessary plates, forks, and glassware. Or you might take it to an artful level by mixing in paper goods and three-dimensional flourishes. Here are some ways to approach place settings for your wedding.
Make the most of your basics. Your caterer will have an inherent need for certain types of plates, cutlery, and glassware. These may be provided by your venue or by the caterer themselves. Ask to see a sample of the plates and glasses in question. If you’re not loving the style, ask about alternatives. It’s possible you could upgrade. Bring this same critical eye to your table cloths, since choosing a patterned or textured cloth can make a big difference.
Once you’ve curated all the basics of your place setting, it’s time to think about any extra-special touches. Things like sprigs of greenery, fresh blooms, or dried slices of citrus may not add anything functional to your place settings, but they add a dash of elegance and eye-catching beauty. You can also consider how your centerpieces mingle with your place settings, as floral arrangements, candles, and table numbers all add to the aesthetic of a table.
First, consider the basics: plates, napkins, and cutlery. You can display these items the traditional way with the napkin, fork, and knife to the right of the dinner plate, or you can get creative with it. You might tie the napkin into a pleasing shape and place it on top of the plate. If you have seating cards, you might place these on the plates as well for added visual depth. If you’re sharing other paper goods with your guests, such as printed menus, consider the placement of these as well.
sharoncoker.com
wildelegancewi.com
wildelegancewi.com
mahalimagery.com
The best gift couples can give each other is peace of mind while planning for their big day—and on the wedding day itself. The key to no worries? Hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to handle everything from the big picture to the tiny details.
LEAVE IT TO THE PROS. We always suggest hiring a professional over a family member or friend. Even the most-organized person can’t compare to the experience & expertise of an industry pro.
There are lots of titles used to describe your most-indispensable vendors. Whether a wedding coordinator, planner, consultant, or designer, they are here to make your day a success.
Some of these titles are used interchangeably, while others carry certain distinctions. They all have one thing in common: handling lots of timeconsuming and stress-inducing details, helping make the planning process enjoyable. After all, many brides say that planning a wedding feels like a full-time job. And the day itself? It’s a lot of work. Our advice? Hire someone whose job is to exclusively manage some, even all, of the planning.
Wedding planners are with you from the onset. They can handle all logistics like referring
vendors, negotiating contracts, keeping track of your budget, and even making payments. They can also be a big part of bringing your day-of vision to life, creating a detailed timeline to keep everything on track. It’s possible a wedding planner would also dabble in the aesthetics of the day. But if you’re looking for a professional that’s all about coordinating the style and look of your wedding, best to hire a wedding designer.
A wedding coordinator, on the other hand, will typically step in closer to the wedding, perhaps a month or so before the big day. This person will take care of day-of or last-minute needs, keeping your wedding day and all involved on schedule and stepping in if there’s an emergency. If for any reason you don’t work with a wedding coordinator, put someone else in charge of fielding day-of issues.
You may want to hire a planner if you don’t have time to devote to planning yourself. Planning can take about 5 hours per week, some estimate. If you’re unsure about what’s all involved in a wedding, a wedding planner will ensure nothing gets missed. If you have a short engagement or are planning a destination wedding, a planner is invaluable. A planner can also help mediate any sticky family dynamics, stepping in to help everyone compromise over wedding decisions. Lastly, if your wedding has you feeling like a fish out of water and you just want professional advice, a planner is the way to go.
Wedding planners and coordinators should be detail-oriented, organized, and reliable. They
should stay on top of their field and be in touch with trends and new offerings within the wedding industry. Many coordinators and planners belong to consultant groups or associations, and networking with local wedding vendors is crucial. This allows your planner to make recommendations if you need them, and also shows you can trust them to work well with your chosen vendors.
Here’s a handy checklist when looking for a wedding planner or coordinator:
1. Ask around to other brides, your vendors, or a trusted wedding publication like Premier Bride about recommendations for wedding planners and day-of coordinators in your area.
2. Read any reviews and look at photos of other weddings they have planned.
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• Are your fees based on total cost of wedding or an hourly or flat rate?
• Have you done weddings similar to mine?
• What cultures and traditions are you familiar with?
• Do you offer “day of the wedding” assistance?
• Will you be willing to work with the coordinator at my reception location?
• Can you provide me with special rates when working with various vendors?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
3. Meet in person and make sure your personalities click.
4. Come to your meeting with all your questions prepared. Confirm all the items your planner will handle, from sending invites to take down at the end of the reception. It’s important to lay out and agree upon all your expectations before hiring any vendor. Ask about what happens in case of emergency. Is there a backup planner? Even if you see reviews online, ask for some references.
The exact cost of wedding planning and coordination services varies greatly. Some charge an hourly rate, while others bill a flat rate or a percentage of the overall wedding budget. Still others take a fee or commission from the vendors they trust and use often. Know that the cost of hiring a wedding planner will be anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000 or more. The cost follows the hours put in; it’s said wedding planners typically spend anywhere from 80 to 250 hours planning a single wedding.
If you’re planning a destination wedding, don’t make another move without a trusted wedding planner with boots on the ground. Or, if you hire someone from home, they may even travel with you. A wedding consultant can offer important advice on locations that will or won’t work, as well as collaborate with local vendors and negotiate the best prices. However, if you go this route, know that it’s typical for couples to pay for their consultant’s airfare, food, and lodging during both the exploratory visit and actual wedding. In the end, the peace of mind will be worth every penny. B
As you start wedding planning, you might be surprised to learn that tables and chairs, eclectic decor, and even the dance floor aren’t typically stored in your venue’s basement. Whether it’s a glamorous reception hall or a tent in your own backyard, it’s extremely common to rent both necessities and fashion-forward extras for your wedding. Here are some of the basics to help you navigate the world of wedding rentals and event design.
BOOK THE BASICS. Don’t wait to secure your rentals. Book the basics right away — you can always add more items later.
Whether it’s a glamorous reception hall or a tent in your own backyard, it’s extremely common to rent both necessities and fashionforward extras for your wedding. Here are some of the basics to help you navigate the world of wedding rentals and event design.
Even if you’re working with a venue that already provides things like tables, chairs, linens, and place settings, rentals might still end up on your wedding checklist. Ask your site contact if you can see their items first hand, in case you want to switch up the look — for instance, springing for vintage tableware, textured linens, or shapely chairs.
Of course if you’re hosting a wedding where the venue isn’t outfitted with even the most basic furnishings, it’s up to you to procure every last item. If you love a DIY challenge, you could track down these goods yourself. But why stress? With
a trusted rental company by your side, you can borrow everything from your ceremony arch to your centerpieces.
The coordinator at your venue should be able to recommend a preferred rental company. You can also ask your other vendors or check local resources like Premier Bride. There are many different styles of rentals these days: traditional, rustic, vintage, modern, eclectic. Whichever companies you consider, visit their showroom so you can compare quality as well as price.
Your venue might include all the basics, or you may be looking to rent a 200-person tent and everything that goes inside it. In general, these
are the main furnishings you’ll need: tables, chairs, linens, plates, flatware, serving pieces, utensils, and glassware. Other large rentals might be a dance floor or a free-standing bar. Also consider any heating or cooling needs, depending on your venue and time of year.
Now let’s dig a little deeper into your most basic rentals, as these are, for the most part, nonnegotiable for all weddings.
At most weddings, you’ll see round tables, long family-style tables, or a mix. You may also need buffet tables, a sweethearts table, taller cocktail tables, and tables for things like cake and the guest book.
If you’re not planning to show off the tables themselves, tablecloths for dinner and cocktail
hour are a must — cloth napkins, too. If you have the choice between cotton and polyester fabric and the price is comparable, go for cotton; it lends a nicer, higher-quality feeling. Hosting a breezy outdoor reception? Make sure you have table weights, hidden tablecloth clips, and napkin rings.
You’ll need seating not just for dinner, but possibly the ceremony and cocktail hour, too. Have high chairs or booster seats for any little ones. Chair covers add color and texture to the space, however, stylish Chiavari chairs and fresh, white folding chairs work wonderfully, no covers necessary.
With all the delicious food at a wedding, you’ll need plates for cocktail hour, salad, dinner,
and dessert. Today, tables are often set with chargers, mixed silverware, and a lively array of colorful, metallic, even patterned plates for an eclectic table. Always order about a dozen extra place settings in case a plate drops or shows up chipped.
For glassware, you might need champagne flutes, glasses for water, beer, wine, cocktails, and cups for non-alcoholic drinks like coffee or tea. You need to keep the clean glassware coming, so either hire a dishwasher or work around it. Calculate three or four glasses per person, or make it clear that guests should reuse their one glass the entire evening.
If you have to place your rental order before your final guest count is confirmed, it’s best to round up. Thoroughly read your rental agreement and the itemized list of goods coming your way. Make sure the amounts and times of drop-off and pick-up are all correct, and understand the state in which goods are to be returned. Do dishes have to be washed? Chairs folded? Also be aware of added fees, such as a service charge, delivery charge, or tip. Ask for the company’s direct contact information for the day of your wedding.
Consider antiques, chandeliers, a disco ball, neon or marquee lighting, or gilded mirrors. Want fun on a bigger scale? Bring in fabulous furniture to act as both a lounge area and a backdrop for photos. Up the playfulness
• What items are available for rent?
• What is the rental fee? Do you have a price list?
• Have you worked at my reception location before?
• Do you provide delivery, set-up and pick-up? Is this included in the cost?
• When will the items be delivered and picked up?
• Will you move decorations from the ceremony to the reception site if needed?
• If tents are needed, do you recommend one large tent, or multiple smaller tents at my reception location?
• What is your policy on damaged or missing items?
• Who will be my contact on the day of the wedding?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
First, think about when you will have your wedding. Certain seasons suggest certain colors. For example, you don’t wear dark colors in the spring, and light colors in the fall, it just doesn’t work. Wearing bright colors in the spring and summer is typically the norm.
Next, think about where you will be getting married and about the colors that surround the area. Make sure that you aren’t clashing with the red carpet on the floor.
What are your favorite colors? Are you going for a more modern or vintage theme for your wedding? If your favorites are magenta and navy, then they are a perfect combination and work very well. If your colors don’t work well together, then consider getting some paint swatches or fabric samples to help you decide.
Think of the season and what flowers are going to be easily accessible. For example, if you know that gerbera daisies are in season, and they happen to be your favorite flower, then use them! If you love lilies of the valley, then make sure that you have them and incorporate those colors into your wedding color palette.
Finding inspiration can be easy. Think of your favorite china pattern, or even a printed dress you love. Your wedding colors will fall into place. Consider having your maid of honor in a printed dress while your other ladies in waiting are in a solid complimenting color. This creates contrast, and shows that your maid of honor is special! Also, create the same complimenting colors within your bouquets and florals around the wedding. This will make your wedding fragrant and beautiful! B
Whether soft and romantic or buzzing with electric energy, lighting makes all the difference at any celebration. Lighting not only creates a certain mood, but it can easily double as décor.
sheer fabric for a magical photo backdrop. Standalone lighting like candles, hanging lanterns, chandeliers, and paper luminaries each add unique romance.
You’ll want to work with a lighting professional. Ask your venue if they can recommend someone who has lit the space in the past, as that person will already be familiar with the layout and any problem areas. Also ask for photos of the space illuminated in various ways, so you can see just how transformative different types of lighting can be.
Next, plan a visit to your venue at the same time of day as your wedding, ideally with your lighting expert. Note how bright the sun is, where the fixed indoor lighting falls, and which corners of the space could use some help. If hosting an outdoor reception, definitely visit the site after dark to get a feel for the pitch black and how to combat it.
Lighting possibilities are endless. Spotlights or pin lights illuminate one detail, such as floral centerpieces. Color washes and uplighting might sweep across an entire wall, flooding the space with hues that pull from your wedding colors. Stenciled lights can project your newlywed monogram or a die-cut flourish. Twinkle or café lights might drape overhead or be swathed in
For a classic, more traditional wedding, venues such as hotel ballrooms, country clubs, and banquet halls have set light fixtures. There might be crystal chandeliers and wall sconces already in place, which means you just have to accent accordingly. For more vintage elegance, opt for tall candelabras. Floating candles can also lend a timeless feel, or take a modern turn, depending exactly what they’re floating in. For modern flair, shine a pin light on the room’s showpiece, whether it’s an ice sculpture or tiered wedding cake.
For a rustic affair, perhaps held in a barn, lodge, tent, or even under the stars, lighting that lends an air of enchantment is a lovely way to go. You might thread strings of twinkle lights or larger café bulbs among the rafters to give the place a festive vibe. Paper lanterns or luminaries add a charming, whimsical glow, while candles set in mason jars are cozy and homey. For a mix of rustic and glam, incorporating crystal chandeliers lends an undeniably dreamy feeling.
If you’re hosting a loft-style city wedding, urban-industrial lighting adds the perfect combo of grit and glow. Edison bulbs might dangle here and there throughout the space, or be clustered together for a retro-modern chandelier. Cast iron lanterns filled with candles or fairy string lights can double as centerpieces. Strategic uplighting sets key architectural features aglow, such as exposed brick or beams. Marquee lights emblazoned with your initials or words like”love” or “cheers” not only illuminate the space, but give the room a photo-op-worthy focal point. B
Picture your special day with a custom dance floor graphic. Luxurious look and feel, complete install included. Transforms your venue to match your look, theme, colors. Indoor our outdoor use. Design Assistance Available.
Event trends tend to follow interior design trends. For 2023 the colors are trending towards muted taupe with sea mist and sahara blush accents.
Gone are the days of being afraid of color for your big day. Bold accents are a stunning way to incorporate some of your personality; such as fuchsia, emerald and purple.
Blue is the color! Create a beautiful table scape with dusty blue as the featured color, accented with sage tones and textured white linens.
While boho is sticking around for the coming year, it is trending towards a more elevated vibe. Adding gold accents throughout your décor gives it that next level feel.
Lindsey Cole Photography Renee Breana Autumn Silva Photography *Photos, Trends and Linen Information Provided by Windy City Linen Front Room PhotographyThey’re the friends you have known for years or perhaps soon-to-be in-laws who you admire and cherish for their special words of love and laughter. Wedding attendants play a large part in weddings and it’s no surprise that brides often languish and toil over the perfect wedding attendant gift.
organists, attendants at your reception and even parents of important people who have helped your day come together in such a unique way.
A special gift is also in order and you might even want to present it to the attendants at the luncheon if you desire. More than anything, the gift is a thank you for all their hard work. Many times gifts are engraved and can range from a jewelry box to a key chain to a toasting flute.
Jewelry is another gift that just about any woman can appreciate, but be sure and remember not to give pierced earrings to friends who don’t have pierced ears or a lipstick case to a woman who does not wear makeup.
The rule when giving gifts is to make everything identical with the exception of your maid/matron honor and, for the man, his best man.
Weddings attendants include your maid or matron of honor, bridesmaids and flower girls. Each of these special friends will help to make your day complete, will not argue with you over the colors you choose and often will pay their own expense for the dress, transportation and beautiful transformation so that your day is special.
It’s no wonder that you want to give these special women (and sometimes men) a gift and long-term memory of how important they are in your life. If some of your attendants are traveling in from out of town, then how about holding a luncheon for them the day before the wedding? Local attendants can also be treated to a nice lunch, however in this case, you can do it several weeks before your big day.
In regards to the luncheon you might also want to include your mother, the groom’s mother and a few of the other participants who are helping to round out your day. This could include singers,
If it’s a destination wedding, then you might also opt to pay for your attendant’s airfare or hotel accommodations in order for them to be able to attend. While some of the attendants you choose to be part of your special day might be able to afford a trip to the South Pacific, others might have to say no if they can’t pay for the airfare. An excellent gift in this case is just offering to get them to the destination at no charge. Once there, it’s certain that your attendants will also be able to relax and enjoy your big day with you.
In many cases, the attendants might appreciate a discounted room rate if you are having a destination wedding. It wouldn’t be such a bad idea to offer to pay for the room altogether if you are still not sure what to give your friends. Whatever you decide, make sure it reflects the fact that these special attendants - be it the ushers, groomsmen, bridesmaids or junior attendants - all realize how much you appreciate their time and efforts spent on your behalf. B
Gown: Morilee Erin (12133)
After months of fittings, tastings, and planning down to the very last detail, the day you’ve always dreamed of will seem to come and go in a blur. That’s why quality photography is a must! You want to be able to preserve the day and look back on everything that happened.
Through pictures captured in a style that speaks to you, you can remember, relive, and cherish each moment for the rest of your lives.
DO A DRY RUN. Test a photographer for your engagement photos ensures you know and like their style before the busy wedding day.
From falling in love with a dreamy online portfolio to the nitty gritty of contracts, let’s look at the process of finding a photographer that’s your perfect match.
Wedding photography is more than just documenting the event. The right photographer for you will capture the spirit of you as a couple, as well as your day. While other factors come into play when choosing a photographer, determining a style that speaks to you is the first order of business. Below are a few styles you might encounter as you start your search.
DOCUMENTARY: Candid, spontaneous, not styled or posed. Capturing moments as they happen; shots of decorative details, action, and people. This style is currently trending, as couples
gravitate toward the effortless, unforced feel of documentary-style photos.
PORTRAIT: Classic and posed. Poses can be staged with traditional backdrops, such as a church alter, or more creative, holding hands in front of a vibrant city mural. Portrait doesn’t mean dull or dated, it just means the scenery and composition are thoughtfully arranged.
FINE ART OR EDGY & BOLD: Dramatic and dreamlike, with interesting angles and framing. Might use more muted tones for a film-like effect. These photos will represent the photographer’s vision, so if you love an artist’s unique style, fine art photography could be a great fit.
Many photographers can do a blend of these styles, so don’t worry so much about being pigeon-holed into one or another. In the end, worry less about what a photographer calls their
• Will you be taking the pictures? If not, can I meet him/her?
• How long have you been a wedding photographer?
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• What type of photography do you specialize in?
• Have you photographed at my ceremony or reception location before?
• How many other weddings do you have this night? How long can you stay?
• Do you offer online ordering for my guests?
• Can we purchase all of our images on disk?
• Can we order additional prints later?
• What happens if you are sick or have an emergency on my wedding day?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
WWW.WILDELEGANCEWI.COM
style and more about whether or not their work makes you happy.
Once you’ve established your target style, it’s time to shop around. Collect referrals from friends, review local wedding magazines and websites, and check out bridal shows near you. Browsing local photographers’ websites, blogs, Facebook pages, and Instagram feeds is the quickest way to get a feel for the talent in your area.
But beware of amateur photographers with limited real-world experience. Just because someone takes pretty iPhone photos, launches a website, and has a business card, that doesn’t make them a professional photographer. Choose someone with a strong portfolio of quality work, testimonials from happy clients, the right gear,
well-thought-out contingency plans, and a professional attitude.
Once you’ve made a shortlist of potential photographers that seem to check all your boxes, it’s time to meet. Don’t underestimate this step! Even if your artistic visions align, it’s just as important that your personalities click. Remember, this person is shadowing you on your wedding day!
First and foremost: Only meet with photographers within your budget. It’s disappointing to fall in love with a photographer’s work only to later discover their rates exceed your spending allowance. Do your research ahead of time and only meet with photographers you can afford.
At these meetings, ask to see a complete album of a wedding shot in a similar venue or with a style similar to yours. If you’re only gauging a photographer’s work off their online portfolio, you might be seeing a highlight reel. It’s best to get the whole picture.
Have a critical eye when assessing wedding albums: Did they capture all the shots you’re hoping for? Are the images clear? How’s the composition? Is the lighting blown out, too dark, or just right? Some photographers are more skilled at capturing low-light images, so consider the time, season, and location of your wedding and chose a professional whose talents suit your needs.
Photography packages vary from one professional to the next, so it’s critical to find out what’s included, as well as the cost of any add-ons. A photography package may or may not include the following: second shooters, additional hours, high-res jpgs, photo albums, or engagement sessions. Some photographers offer such services a-la-carte, so you can choose only what’s of value to you.
Speaking of files, ask any potential photographers how they back up your photos; if their answer doesn’t come swiftly and confidently, that can indicate a lack of professionalism. Also ask about their typical
timeline for delivering proofs and final photos. Bear in mind that faster isn’t always better. Some professionals shoot weddings nonstop during the high season, then spend the next six months of the low season processing photos flawlessly.
When you finally make your decision, get everything in writing. When is payment due? Will there be a backup camera? What’s the contingency plan should your photographer fall ill or have a family emergency? When will proofs be ready to view? Answering all of these questions up front will ease your mind and manage your expectations.
Nearly all photographers offer engagement shoots, either included in their wedding
package prices or a-la-carte. If you’re on the fence about engagement photos, our advice is to go for it. Think of it like a trial run for your wedding day. An engagement session is a chance to get comfortable both with your photographer and together in front of the camera.
If there are friends and family that you want to be sure to snap a photo with or a particular time in the ceremony or reception that you want captured, it helps to put that in writing as well to help keep you and your photographer on track. Download our Ultimate Planner online at premierbride.com where you’ll find a list of questions to ask your photographer and a checklist of can’t-miss moments. B
smokephotographywi.com 414.617.3625
@smokephotographyy @smokephotography_
As a bride-to-be, this might be the best time to try boudoir photography. Whether you’re still flirting with the idea, or ready to go for it, here are six things you should know that makes this session a little different than your family pictures.
ONCE IN A LIFETIME. For many women, this is a one-time event, so make the most of it. Plan your outfits and accessories well in advance. It’s a good idea to schedule a hair appointment too.
GET TO KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER. It’s okay to ask questions about your session and your photographer. Find out where the photo shoot will take place, and ask to speak to or meet your photographer. This will help you relax during the session.
KNOW WHAT YOU WANT. Are you looking for image files? A photo album? Most women don’t choose to display the images on the wall so there are less
options; check with your photographer to see what they offer.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT OUTFITS. There’s no right and wrong here; choose outfits that have the most meaning to you and your husband-to-be. Consider wearing his work clothes or incorporating hobbies. Pairing sexy and sporty gives you a great combination.
ACCESSORIZE. This is the fun part. Bring hats, scarves, shawls, jewelry, sunglasses, feathers, umbrellas or even his power tools! The options are endless, but choose items you enjoy most.
IT’S ALSO FOR YOU. Yes, this will be the best wedding gift ever (and you might have a hard time topping it in the future), but a boudoir session is also for you. Pick outfits you enjoy and are comfortable in, and remember to relax and enjoy your session. B
Wisconsin is one of best places to get married! The area offers so many different landscapes and backdrops to your big day. No matter what you are looking for, you can find it in Wisconsin!
$3 -$20+ PER INVITE
Invitations have many different options and formats. Your invitation budget will depend on the quantity, number of pieces to the invitation, using a calligrapher and postage. Calligraphy can range from $2 to $8 per invitation depending on the number of pieces you address, the RSVP’s, style of font and ink. Also, keep in mind, some invitations are more than 2 oz which requires more than one stamp!
$500 TO $4,000+
Cakes are often priced “per slice” or how many people it will feed. They are also priced on the level of décor difficulty.
$1,800 TO $7,000+
Factors that can affect the price; number of hours the photographer shots, number of photographers shooting the event, number of prints and photo album.
Factors that can affect the price; type of venue, choice of food, serving style, and number of servers. Alcohol is not included in price; this is figured on a per person basis too. Alcohol can be estimated at $20 to $50 per person depending on venue, length of open bar and alcohol choices.
$99 TO $15,000+
Most brides select a dress between $800 and $3,000. Please budget for alterations which can start at $125 and go up depending on the amount of work. More if it’s not done at the location of purchase.
$1,500 TO $6,000+
Factors that can affect the price; number of hours they film, number of videographers, length of wedding video, number of hours of editing
Limo buses or limos run on a hourly basis with a typical 4 hour minimum. Distance is also a factor. Minimum charges of $400 are typical and will increase based on size, time, and mileage.
$600+ – $3,500+
$300 TO $15,000+
Day of Coordination starting at $600+, Weekend or Month of starting at $1,500+ and FullService Planning starting at $3,500+. Factors that can affect the price are involvement in the wedding planning process, experience of the wedding coordinator, wedding budget, or number of wedding guests.
There are so many elements to this! Chairs can rent for $2 to $20+ per chair not including delivery and set up. Tables can rent for $6 to $75+ depending on style, size not including delivery and set up. Linens can rent for $6 to $75+ depending on style of linen. China, glasses and flat wear can rent for $0.75 to $10+ per setting depending on what you pick!
Flowers have so many variables and it is hard to give a range because it depends on the quantity of bouquets, center pieces and décor arrangements, the type of flowers, the season or time of year, and how many stems you use. Bridal bouquets could be $125 to $800+ and Bridesmaids from $60 to $250+ depending on what you pick! With flowers, talk to your florist about what you want and estimated budget to come up with a plan! Use
$250 TO $500+
A wedding officiate costs vary based on time location and time.
$50 TO $200+
Makeup can run $50 to $125 for a bridesmaid and $50 to $150+ for a bride. Hair can run $50 to $125 for a bridesmaid and $50 to $200+ for a brides’ hair style. Prices might not include hair extensions. There also might be a travel fee!
$750 TO $10,000+
A professional wedding DJ company will start around $750 and go up to $3,000+ depending on time, date, and experience. Ceremony musicians will start around $100 to $250+ per hour, per musician depending on experience and travel time. Wedding bands could range from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on how many members, time, and travel.
Through decades of evolving wedding traditions and styles, certain things remain constant like a bride’s white dress and gorgeous flowers to adorn the day. Though we think of flowers as an accent, they’re so much more at a wedding. Flowers help define a wedding’s colors, theme, and mood.
FLOWER PRESERVATION. After your wedding, look into ways to preserve your flowers via drying, pressing, painting, or resin.
Oconomowoc
AT MAYHOUSE COLLECTIONS
W359N5002 Brown St. Suite 106, Oconomowoc MagnoliaFloralShoppe.net 262-468-4255
If possible, you should book a florist 8 to 10 months before your wedding. You can find potential candidates in a print publication like this one, at a bridal show, online, or by asking friends and family for recommendations. Your goal is to find someone who is organized, professional, and whose style and personality meshes with your own. To start, create a flowers-only Pinterest board to gather images that you love, and maybe some that you don’t. It helps to have lots to show your potential florist. Have a budget in mind.
At your florist meetings, you should know your wedding colors and ceremony and reception locations. If you have a picture of your wedding dress and any fabric swatches from the bridesmaid dresses, bring those along as well. The right florist for you will take all of these
elements (your style, venue, and budget) and create something special just for you. Florists know which flowers will and won’t wilt in the sun, which are best for indoors, and which will work better in a centerpiece than in a bouquet.
You’ll first want to determine the look of your bridal bouquet. All other floral pieces will take their cue from this piece. This is the perfect opportunity to bring your style and personality to the forefront. Full, rounded bouquets are gorgeous, as are cascading bouquets which are a classic choice making a modern comeback. Today’s cascades are a loose, more natural style of bouquet. Also on trend are dried floral elements combined with fresh blooms for gorgeous texture and dimension.
Then there’s the wedding party flowers: Just as bridesmaids might mix-and-match dresses, you can also mix-and-match bouquets and boutonnieres. Remember to also consider corsages and boutonnieres for parents, grandparents, and other important people. These miniature arrangements have been updated in recent years. Corsages often take shape on metal cuff bracelets, while a spray of small flowers makes an easy pocket boutonniere.
If you’re having your ceremony in a place of worship, check with your officiant for any restrictions before finalizing the flowers. Consider aisle adornments and arrangements — such as an arch, swag, or spray — to frame your vows. Oftentimes
ceremony flowers can play double duty by adorning the ceremony as well as the reception hall.
There’s an endless array of options for floral reception centerpieces: elegant vases filled with cut flowers, footed pedestals brimming with blooms, glorious bunches of wildflowers, assorted small vases with single stems, natureinspired elements, and so much more. You may even think beyond the tabletops themselves in favor of hanging floral installations. Use your imagination to incorporate flowers into one-of-akind centerpieces and scene-setters that reflect your style and your wedding’s theme.
Keep in mind that the height of the arrangements shouldn’t get in the way of conversation. Florists can create centerpieces at
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• How can we make the most of our floral budget?
• Do you deliver the flowers? Is there a charge?
• Do you provide any other kinds of decorating?
• Do you rent or provide decorations and props?
• Will you come to the ceremony and reception site to plan out the decor?
• Do you set up at the ceremony and reception sites?
• Can you move the flowers from the ceremony to reception?
• Can you provide fresh flowers for the cake?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
a variety of heights: all high, all low, or half and half, usually with three different styles. The key is to either make the arrangements low enough to talk over or high enough to talk under. A riser or vase that is about 24 to 32 inches will elevate above the conversation as long as the vase is narrow enough to talk around.
If your bridal party bouquets are doubling as decoration at the reception, equally spacing the bouquets at the head table is a lovely way to go. Finish off the table with a garland of greenery laced with flowers for a gorgeous effect.
If your budget allows, consider adding floral flourishes throughout the reception hall to tie everything together. Thinking big, a gorgeous floral backdrop certainly makes for a fabulous photo-op. A ceremony arch could even double as a sort of floral photo booth during the reception. On a smaller scale, your florist might sprinkle flower petals on serving trays or trim the dessert table with an extra flourish. Simple greenery placed throughout the venue is also a lovely way to bring the outdoors in. Run any and all ideas past your florist so they can help you refine your vision, stay within your budget, and create a beautiful, memorable ambiance.
Seasonality plays an even bigger role when it comes to florals. One of the most important things for you and your florist to factor into your choice of flowers is the season in which your wedding falls. You’ll find flowers that bloom during the month of your wedding will be more affordable and will last longer than those that are out of season. Also keep in mind that around certain holidays, flowers will increase in price across the board. Let’s look at some popular flowers in each season to kickstart your search.
• WINTER: Amaryllis, Casablanca Lily, Freesia, Gerbera Daisy, Heather Holly, Narcissus, Poinsettia, Rose, Stephanotis.
• SPRING: Peony, Sweet Pea, Lilac, Ranunculus, Hydrangea, Tulip, Calla Lily, Magnolia.
• SUMMER: Anemone, Azalea, Camellia, Daffodil, French Tulip, Hyacinth, Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, Mimosa, Pansy, Primrose, Violet.
• FALL: Celosia (Cockscomb), Chinese Lantern, Chrysanthemum, Crosnia, Dahlia, Statice.
• YEAR-ROUND: Baby’s Breath, Calla Lilies, Carnation, Cattleman, Chrysanthemum, Cymbidium Orchid, Daisy, Dendrobium, Orchid, Freesia, Gardenia, Gerbera Daisy, Gladiolus, Hydrangeas, Iris, Lily, Rose, September Aster, Snapdragon, Stephanotis, Tuberose.
No doubt roses are the most widely used flower in wedding arrangements. These timeless blooms are available in three grades: fancy, extra fancy, and select. Florists rarely deal with fancy roses as they tend to wilt rapidly (they are most commonly found in supermarkets). Roses that are of top quality will last the longest. Traditional bouquets are all white and can combine an array of blossoms that are unique in shape and size. It’s also possible to have a vibrantly colored bouquet that still reflects classic styles and shapes.
Whatever your wedding’s theme and style, by collaborating with a professional florist, you’re sure to have the flowers of your dreams. Work together, but always remember to trust your florist’s expertise. In doing so, your wedding flowers will be the envy of all. B
bellefioriflorist.com
As possibly the single most important design detail of the ceremony, you don’t want to hide the specialness of your dress with the wrong bridal bouquet. A cascade bouquet could overwhelm a simple sheath dress, while a contemporary design won’t be a good match for a classically designed ball gown. Consider the size and style of flowers each type of bouquet calls for and ask your florist how it will work to compliment your dress.
A larger version of the Posy, this bouquet traditionally contains one or two types of flowers arranged in a perfect dome shape. Roses and hydrangea are the perfect flower to keep this uniform and symmetrical.
FLOWERS: BELLEFIORIFLORIST.COM
A very small tight bouquet of flowers without a lot of extra greenery. This petite, round bouquet can usually be held in one hand and is perfect for bridesmaids, mothers; in lieu of a corsage or an informal bridal bouquet for an elopement or trip to the courthouse.
PHOTO: CANVA.COM
Simplistic yet striking bouquet choice, a single stem. Make the most of this budget friendly option by choosing a large, full bloom, like a hydrangea or peony, especially for a large bridal party.
FLOWERS: SIMPLYFLORALSBYAMANDA.COM
PHOTO: ANGELFACEPHOTOGRAPHY.NET
Forward facing with a full top and narrowing vines that waterfall to the bottom. Can be more dramatic and highlights the overflow of beautiful blooms or a tiny handful fit for a royal princes. Perfect for a seasonal mix of garden flowers with beautiful greenery help to fill out this style of wedding bouquet.
FLOWERS: BELLEFIORIFLORIST.COM • PHOTO: DEGROOTFILMCO.COM
This style is intentionally asymmetrical and predominately horizontal. On trend with a bo-ho vibe this bouquet often features all types of botanical elements; fresh flowers, foliage, dried grasses, pods and even fruit).
FLOWERS: BELLEFIORIFLORIST.COM
PHOTO: GEORGIA-LLOYD.COM
There are many sites dedicated to wedding planning that offer a wealth of information at your fingertips. Coordinate with vendors, make and confirm reservations, create a Pinterest account to save your favorite images and ideas. (Visit our website at PremierBrideMKE.com for trusted local vendors).
DO create a separate email address and use it for everything you sign up for during the planning process. You’ll enjoy getting special offers and information but can delete the address after your wedding date.
DON’T forget to pamper yourself. Treat your mom and maids the day before the wedding with an afternoon at the spa. You’ll have the time of your life enjoying facials, massages, manicures and pedicures. It will make you feel more relaxed and beautiful. 4
DO contact the location where you will perform your ceremony and ask about any rules or guidelines regarding music. Some churches require that you use their organist.
remember your guests with small children. Ask your reception site manager if there is a small room or play area near the festivities that you can rent. Hire a professional babysitting service to take care of the kids. Parents will appreciate your consideration and be able to relax and enjoy your reception knowing they are close to their children.
DO remember when purchasing a gown to be realistic about your expectations for losing weight. A gown can always be taken in, but rarely can it be let out without leaving stitch marks for all to see.
DON’T forget to involve stepparents in your ceremony in some way; perhaps a reading during your ceremony or an invocation before dinner.
DO consider table visits during your reception. It is a grand display of appreciation and respect when the bride and groom spend a few moments visiting their guests at each table.
DON’T seat older guests near the band or the speakers as it may be hard for them to hear anything else.
10
DO consider renting unique chairs such as chiavari, acrylic, colored or rustic style chairs. You’ll transform an ordinary room or site and completely change the look of your reception. 11
DON’T forget to discuss black and white images with your photographer. This classic style is dramatic and remains popular. 12
DO remember that the hour of the ceremony is an indicator of the formality of the reception. 13
DO consider having your entire wedding at a full-service venue. The convenience of having the ceremony, reception and guest lodging in one place is incomparable, especially for a complicated event. 14
To get your skin in shape for your wedding day, DON’T forget to start one year to six months prior to your wedding and practice make-up techniques. 15
When renting transportation, DO remember that the maximum capacity of the vehicle will be lower when the bride’s gown and train and the bridesmaid’s dresses are factored in to the equation. 16
DON’T forget that the best way to let people know where you are registered is to have family and friends spread the word. Although it’s impolite to mention the registry on wedding invitations, a hostess may do so on shower invitations.
17
DO remember to return rental items on time and undamaged. 18
DO select the ceremony and reception locations nine to 12 months before your wedding. If you’re getting married in popular months, select these locations as soon as possible. 19
DO make finding the right caterer and baker a priority. Great food is critical to the wedding celebration. Interviews and tastings are a must. 20
DON’T waste time getting to your reception. Have photos of the wedding party taken before the ceremony. 21
DO reserve your photographer nine to 12 months before your wedding. Decide which shots you definitely want and which ones you can live without. 22
DON’T forget to send an invitation to your officiant and to all of your wedding party. 23
DO pick up your invitation envelopes as soon as possible so that you can begin addressing them. 24
DO consider having two bouquets, one to keep and one to throw. 25
DO check with your ceremony venue about their policies, especially regarding alcohol.
People always ask me how do I get the most of a lake Geneva Wedding? I grew up in this town, I got married to my wonderful wife in this town and I have attended more than 500 weddings in this town. I have some experience with lake Geneva Weddings.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE BEAUTIFUL SCENERY. Search out terraces, bridges and walkways along the lakefront that will make beautiful backdrops for your photos.
So here is my Answer. Start with the simple questions “WHY?” Why have you decided to have a Lake Geneva Wedding? There are a lot of great reasons to have a wedding in lake Geneva. Your reasons may vary but here are some good ones:
It’s Gorgeous. It is one of the most beautiful Lakes in North America. Geneva Lake is the second deepest lake in Wisconsin (5,500 acres, 152 feet deep, 21 miles around, 3 miles wide, and 9 miles long). An has many deep caves and is rumored to have a sea monster similar to Loch Ness living deep within.
It is the original Chicago destination and reminiscent of the roaring 20’s and GREAT events. It is and always has been one of the best party towns in the country… but comes
with an eloquence that is extremely unique. Hugh Hefner chose Lake Geneva as the home for the nationally acclaimed Playboy Club & Resort, now the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa.
If your into to a nautical theme, you can’t beat lake Geneva. The Geneva Lake area is the home of Buddy Melges, 1972 Olympic yachting gold medallist and helmsman of the winning America’s Cup team in 1992. There are several regatta’s throughout the summer.
It may be the best wedding your guests ever attend! Give them a vacation on the way to your wedding! Lake Geneva is hopping with boaters, swimmers, parasailers and paddleboarders. The shopping is incredible, the nightlife impeccable, and there are more
Set against the stunning shoreline of Geneva Lake, The Cove of Lake Geneva is the ideal place to say "I Do" Plan a celebration that you will cherish forever. 111 CENTER STREET LAKE GENEVA WI 53147 • COVEOFLAKEGENEVA.COM • (262) 249-9460
resorts and Bed and Breakfasts than you could probably visit in a year. Lake Geneva’s unique 26 mi shore path along with Boat Tours, Skiing, Horseback riding, hunting, fishing and all kinds of other activities make this one of the best gifts you could give back to your guests.
But more importantly in regard planning a wedding, it offers some of the best wedding resorts in the Midwest often at a fraction of the cost of a Downtown Chicago Venue. Finally the local Lake Geneva Wedding vendors know their town like no other. From wedding planners, officiants, photographers, and florists and more you will find some of the best customer service available and delivered with a smile and a warm welcoming handshake.
So how do you find the best? Well I think you have! Premiere Bride proudly displays the best Lake Geneva has to offer! So “why choose Lake Geneva?” There are so many great reasons to choose Lake Geneva, I think the better question is “why wouldn’t you choose Lake Geneva!” B
NO SECOND GUESSING. Once you’ve decided on something, stop looking! Trust your gut, check it off your list and move on. You'll drive yourself crazing sifting through all the options and Pinterest ideas you have.
At an unplugged wedding, the couple kindly asks that everyone present turn off cell phones, cameras, and other digital distractions during the ceremony and/or reception. A bride and groom might do this because they want their guests to be fully present, to avoid social media spoilers, and to eliminate competition on behalf of the professional photographer.
In our technology-crazed world, it’s become a habit to check our phones every few minutes, to post a constant stream of status updates to Twitter and Facebook, and to document any and everything on Instagram. In all this online connectedness, we’re viewing the world through our phone screens and camera lenses and missing out on true human connections. But people are starting to wake up and realize just how immersed we all are in our phones and tablets, and there’s a movement to change all that.
This movement has reached the wedding industry. Brides and grooms want to have face-to-face connections with their guests — especially during the ceremony — instead of staring out into a sea of electronics. If guests are experiencing your big day from behind a screen, are they truly experiencing it? Your wedding is comprised of some of the most important moments of your life; making it unplugged encourages guests to live in the moment with you. Simply put: it encourages your loved ones to be here now.
Imagine: You haven’t seen the groom all day and can’t wait for that “first look” moment. While you’re getting ready, the Maid of Honor snaps a photo of you in your dress and veil. She has a few minutes of down time, so she posts the photo on Instagram. The groom, also with a few minutes to spare, checks for Instagram updates out of habit — and the first look is spoiled. A first look via social media isn’t exactly the stuff of dreams! Brides and grooms are avoiding such spoilers altogether by declaring their wedding “unplugged.”
There are few things that annoy a professional photographer more than an amateur trying to do his/her job. Overly zealous uncles who jump in the aisle and cousins who stand on church pews can, at best, be an eyesore in your professional photos and can, at worst, completely ruin once-in-a-lifetime moments. Imagine your “kiss the bride” moment blocked by an uncle who stepped into the aisle to snap a photo. The professional photographer didn’t see it coming and his or her hands are tied. Nothing can bring that moment back — it’s lost to a grainy photo on Uncle Al’s smart phone.
Another issue is wandering eyes. When your professional photographer stages a group shot of your newly combined families and Uncle Al decides to take the photo too, eyes will wander, not knowing which camera to look at first. This makes the final professional photo just look silly! One way to avoid all of these problems is to have an unplugged wedding, or at least an unplugged ceremony.
yes no no LAKE GENEVA
Not sure who to invite? Use this quick guide to help you in that process!
Are they family?
Are they the immediate family or the spouse of your immediate family? (aunts & uncles, grandparents, etc)
First and foremost: ask nicely. The reason guests are busy on their phones and cameras during your wedding is because, for better or worse, they want to document your special day. So be kind and understanding when you ask them to refrain from technology during the ceremony and/or reception.
Friend?
Have you talked in the past 5 years?
Have you talked in the past 6 months?
Do you like them? Have you talked to them in the past 5 years? Would you be upset if they didn’t invite you to their wedding? Can you imagine your big day without them?
yes no yes no yes no yes no yes no yes no yes no yes no yes
Coworker? Do you spend time together outside of the office? Ex?
yes no yes no yes no Everyone else DON’T INVITE INVITE
You can include a message in your ceremony program, such as: “The bride and groom have asked that you share in their wedding fully and not through the lens of a camera or cell phone.” Or the officiant can say a few words at the beginning of the ceremony — it can have a spiritual message (“please honor the sanctity of this moment by turning off cell phones and cameras”) or an emotional one (“the professional photographer will capture how this moment looks — the bride and groom ask that you capture how it feels”). However you ask, make sure to stay true to yourselves as a couple.
You’ll also want to ease your guests’ minds by assuring them that they will have access to the professional photos within a timely manner. Again, the reason wedding guests take so many photos is so that they can remember and relive your wedding day and share it with others. Talk to your photographer and make sure that you can get a few professional shots available to your guests via email, website, or Facebook within a couple of days. It’s even increasingly common for professionals to share “sneak peek” photos either the day of or the day after a wedding on their own social media pages. Reassuring your guests that these photos will be available to them will be a great help! Another idea: order picture postcards to send to your guests in place of traditional thank you notes. B
Tie the knot at the Lake Geneva area’s premier lakefront destination ceremony venue. Convenient to Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison, Lake Lawn Resort sits on two miles of Delavan Lake shoreline and features rolling lawns, charming courtyards, and sweeping views.
LAKELAWNRESORT.COM | Call our wedding specialist today! 262.725.9218
It’s no secret that men and women are getting married more than once nowadays. However, with the decision to wed a second or a third time, there are also the common worries about tradition and proper etiquette.
Brides who are walking down the aisle for at least the second time tend to be more mature and ready to take on the world in a more sophisticated manner. Often, they are busy career women barely able to fit a wedding into their schedule. With commitments such as work, children and a personal life, it can be a tricky balancing act to plan a wedding during the prime of your life.
Many couples nowadays are choosing to have their children be part of the ceremony. For example, sons might play the part of an usher or even a ring bearer. Depending on the age of the children, the daughter can also take part in the ceremony as a flower girl or even a bride’s maid. The bride’s son or daughter might stand next to the bride in a show that the groom is not only marrying the mother, but also acknowledging he is taking the child as his own. This can be done visa versa as well and it is not uncommon
to have a son or daughter walk down the aisle with their mother. Since children will often have some issues with their parent getting remarried, it is a good idea to let them have a big part in the wedding so they can feel a sense of importance. Singing during the ceremony, lighting a unity candle or just incorporating a reading will also tie the family and the ceremony together in a special way.
Veils are not a good choice for second time brides as it reflects the innocence of the first time. However, white dresses are no longer taboo. The most important thing is to pick a dress, regardless of the color, that brings out the beauty of the bride. Hemlines are shorter and the colors are often soft and pastel. Overall, dresses tend to be less ornamental with better quality silk or silk satin and the train is not as long. Another trend for a second time bride is a hairstyle donning fresh flowers.
Wedding parties also tend to be pared down and attendants are usually allowed to pick their favorite cocktail dress that is within the brides color scheme or theme.
Smaller, intimate weddings are definitely the norm for second time couples. The receptions are different too; simple dinner parties or cocktail receptions are preferred over full-blown affairs. Often the bouquet and garter toss are replaced with an award to the longest married couple in the room.
Since most of the time the bride and groom will pay for the second wedding, the choices they make are their own this time around. However, if it is a first wedding for the bride or groom, parents might still get involved to pay for a part of the wedding. There are no rules in regards to how to handle this situation; often everyone helps with the budget to make it the most special day possible.
The wedding invitations are issued from the bride and groom, in third person, without titles. It would read as follows:
Enlisting the aid of family, friends and wedding professionals ensure an easy and enjoyable day where nerves stay relatively unfrazzled and the sophistication of the event is remembered for years to come.
Finally, remember that while you may have been married before, it was not to each other. Treat your special day as just that, and keep in mind it is the first day the two of you will spend your lives together. B
your
If you’re planning a wedding, you already know the Internet is a great resource. Pinterest is an easy way to organize your wedding inspiration and ideas. On pinterest.com, you can grab photos from around the web and pin them onto virtual inspiration boards named with categories of your choosing.
You can also browse other users’ boards, and there are seemingly endless weddingthemed boards to choose from! The photos are often accompanied with comments, and can include tips or instructions on how to create the look that was captured in the picture. Like wedding forums, you can interact with friends or strangers to get suggestions and ideas for your special day, but this time, it’s all centered around pictures of your choosing.
Pinterest certainly displays boards for all the biggies like the gown, décor, and food. But the site’s real strength is in highlighting the details. It’s here that you’ll find inspiration for handmade place cards, fun photography poses, or ideas for “something blue.” Those seemingly insignificant details will make your day truly unique.
But like many online wedding hotspots, Pinterest runs the risk of being overwhelming. To get the most out of the site, make sure to be specific when you’re scoping out ideas. In the search box in the top left hand corner of the page, use as many details as possible such as “fall DIY wedding décor” or “cream wedding pumps.”
You can also find lots of photos from real weddings. Try searching for keywords such as: whimsical, woodsy, DIY, rustic, vintage, elegant, chic, romantic, and couture. These are all popular words on Pinterest’s wedding pins, and even if you think those adjectives wouldn’t apply to your big day, type them in and browse. You might be pleasantly surprised!
If you’re serious about using suggestions from Pinterest, then do your homework. Each picture can be traced back to its original blog or website, so when you find something you like and think you could apply it to your wedding, click through and take notes or bookmark the page.
While Pinterest offers a gorgeous visual array of picture-perfection to all brides with a dream, this new Pinterest culture can cause some problems in the real world. Brides pin things like extravagant flower arrangements that far exceed their budget. They show their photographers images of a bride with her veil caught perfectly in a breeze - a lucky shot that surely can’t be recreated.
Pinterest can be a recipe for disappointed hopes if taken at face value. Always remember that only perfect, surprising, and unique images make the cut on Pinterest and most of what you see just isn’t realistic. Pinterest should only be used to ignite ideas and to capture the overall look and feel you’d like to aim for at your wedding. In the end, know that while Pinterestinspired touches are pretty for a day, saying “I do” to someone you love lasts a lifetime! B
Invitations seem like such a basic item but there’s a lot that goes into them and a lot that comes out of them! Invitations set the stage and build excitement, offering guests a peek at your wedding’s style. With creativity and proper etiquette, your invites will give a great first impression.
IS YOUR VENUE LIMITED FOR SPACE? Create an A-list and B-list. Send out the A-list eight to ten weeks in advance and use the B-list as alternates for those from the A-list that decline.
Traditional wedding invitations include so many tiny etiquette details from how to address each envelope to arranging the many parts and pieces. To keep it all straight, it’s best to find a qualified local professional to act as your go-to person for all paper goods and etiquette questions. If you choose to purchase invitations online, go with a reputable retailer. When possible, give yourself extra time in case there are any problems that require shipping back and forth. It’s also smart to test-drive an online retailer. Contact them via email and call the customer service center to gauge the timeliness and quality of their response, and of course, ask for paper samples before ordering all your invitations.
The sooner you start on invitations the more time you’ll have to research and thoroughly evaluate options. Before you can begin to choose a style of invitation, it’s crucial to know some of the broad themes of your wedding: casual vs. formal, bold colors vs. soft hues, rustic vs. black tie, etc. Knowing these key details will help you find or create invitations to reflect the style of your day.
If possible, order invitations and other wedding stationery six or more months before the big day to give yourself plenty of time for proofreading, printing, addressing and envelope stuffing. Formal invitations should be sent six to eight weeks before the wedding with save-the-dates going out months in advance. Save-the-date cards, or even an in-formal conversation with your guests, are especially important for outof-town guests. Plenty of advance notice gives traveling guests enough time to book flights and lodging with some flexibility.
While formal invitations, complete with calligraphy and foil-lined envelopes are never
out of style, the breadth of invite design options has grown immensely. The use of watercolor and illustrated elements is also growing to such an extent that many stationery companies now have a resident artist to accommodate those personalized, handmade touches. Beyond formal calligraphy, you might choose whimsical handlettering or even white ink on dark envelopes. Dress up your invites with a belt or sash wrapped around the middle. Hand-drawn embellishments, a chalkboard look, and vintage-inspired designs are also lovely if they work with the style of your wedding.
Wedding invitation suites typically consist of several parts: a ceremony card with the details of the ceremony (traditionally with a layer of tissue paper on top), a reception card explaining reception details, a response card with its stamped/addressed envelope (yes, it’s proper etiquette to provide return postage), a map or some other card with directions to the ceremony/ reception and hotel information for out-of-town guests, and an inner and outer envelope. The rules aren’t hard and fast, however, you can combine information on a single card, omit the tissue paper, or really think outside the box with your design if that suits the style of your wedding day. For example, your response card might be a simple postcard.
When it comes time to assemble the pieces, here’s the traditional way. Start with the ceremony invitation on the bottom (covered with tissue, if using), followed by the reception card, and the response card with the unsealed return envelope and map. Slide these items into the inner envelope, but do not seal it. Slide the inner envelope into the outer envelope with the
addressee’s name facing the back flap (this way their name will be the first thing they see upon opening the invitation).
Traditionally, whoever is hosting (read: paying for) the wedding will be listed first on the invitation. But it’s best to work this out on a case-by-case basis with open communication between the couple, the bride’s parents, and the groom’s parents. Some couples today who are paying for the majority of their wedding with help from mixed and blended families simply say, “Mary Bride and John Groom, together with their families, request the honor of your presence at their marriage.” An experienced professional will be able to assist you more with wording,
and online research is also a great way to get the wheels turning.
To address the envelopes, you can run them through your printer in a beautiful font, handwrite them yourself, or hire a hand-letterer to do the job for you. Hand lettering gives a beautiful first impression and can even act as a sort of frameable gift to your guests. Avoid using labels at all costs, even clear ones as they just don’t convey an elegance or special-ness that a wedding deserves.
If you want to keep things formal/classic, here are some tips for the etiquette of addresses. Street names, cities, and states should be written out completely (no abbreviations). To address a married couple, use “Mr. and Mrs. Tom Smith.”
• May I see samples of your work?
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• What kinds of products do you offer?
• How long will it take to have each order processed?
• Will we see a proof before the invites are printed?
• Do you offer discounts if we order other items at the same time such as thank you notes?
• Do you offer custom designs?
• Do you offer labels?
• Can you create a program for the ceremony?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
• Are you able to fill future orders such as monogrammed stationery or additional thank you notes?
These are not hard and fast rules (except for the thank you cards!), but they serve as a starting point.
Destination Weddings (D) Timeline is on the top, and Local Weddings (L) are on the bottom.
(D) 8-12 MONTHS
(L) 6-8 MONTHS
Save-the-dates give your guests a friendly headsup. They are not always necessary, but are never a bad idea. Your guests may decide to turn your destination wedding into a getaway trip, so those save-the-dates can be sent up to a year in advance.
(D) 3-4 MONTHS
(L) 4-8 WEEKS
There is such a thing as too early! Send invitations so that your guests’ maximum anticipation lines up with your big day. Invitations for destination weddings should be sent far enough in advance for your guests to make their travel plans.
(D) 3-5 WEEKS
(L) 2-3 WEEKS
Your RSVP Deadline will depend on how much lead time your wedding professionals need. The first one to consider is your caterer’s meal count. Check with each vendor to determine when they need a final number, and set the RSVP return date for a week before that.
For an unmarried couple living together, use “Mr. Tom Smith and Miss Judy Jones.” If every member of the family is invited, use “Mr. and Mrs. Tom Smith & Family.” If only older children are invited, write their names under the parents’ names, such as, “Miss Jane Smith.” Adult children no longer living with their parents should receive their own invitation. If you don’t want young children at your reception, politely say “adults only” somewhere in the invite and confirm this fact when you talk to your guests before the wedding.
Include your return address on the back of the envelope. Placing it on the back is less crowded and leaves room for the guest’s address to shine on the front. You can handwrite your return address, or in this case, printed labels are an acceptable shortcut. You’ll also want to
(D) IMMEDIATELY (L)
Believe it or not, you’ll start receiving gifts even before you walk down the aisle. Send thank you cards immediately. Once you’re back from your honeymoon, kick it into high gear to get them out no later than six weeks after the wedding.
make sure that the return address matches the primary host. If Mary Bride and John Groom are hosting (paying for) the bulk of the wedding, you’ll see their return address on the back. If Mary’s parents are hosting, you’ll see her parents’ names/address on the back.
One last critical tip: Before you send all your invites, take one to the post office. Have it weighed to confirm the postage cost in case it weighs more than the normal envelope or is an odd shape. The last thing you want is for all your invitations to be returned as “insufficient postage!” so stop at the post office, make absolutely sure all is right with your stamps, pop those gorgeous invitations in the mail, and take a deep breath. Your wedding is officially underway! B
There are few things we appreciate more than a gorgeous, visually stunning wedding cake or sweet table display. The hard part will be choosing from all the mouthwatering options available as choices. So why limit yourself to just one. Go ahead and indulge!
KEEP ‘EM DANCING. Hire a barista later in the evening for lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso drinks.
Imagine a picture-perfect wedding cake. You’d probably envision a tiered confection with elegant embellishments crowned with fresh flowers, a porcelain cake topper, or the bride and groom’s initials. While such classic cakes are never out of style, there are lots of ways to freshen up tradition or even stray from it entirely, while still serving a sweet that is timeless, delicious, and uniquely you.
A good place to start when deciding on your wedding cake or dessert is to consider the rest of your wedding. The look and feel of your sweet treat should match your day, whether that’s classic elegance, rustic romance, whimsical fun, or megawatt glam.
If your wedding is black tie, a traditional tiered wedding cake is probably the way to go — it will certainly make a statement as a centerpiece of the room. If your wedding is outdoors or in a barn trimmed with twinkle lights, a traditional cake or bunt cake, lattice-topped pies or cookies add ample charm to the scene. A candy buffet, ice cream sundaes or everyone’s favorite boost, a coffee bar, are fitting additions to any celebration.
As you style your dessert, think about what speaks to you as a couple. Are you both big movie buffs? Work your love of cinema into the cake with fondant rolls of film and famous characters perched on each tier. Did the groom propose in Paris? Find a baker who can craft a veritable Eiffel Tower of cupcakes, brimming with French romance. If you have a uniquely sweet idea, seek out a professional who can bring your vision to life.
Why go tiered? Tiered cakes are a timeless choice for a reason — they’re utterly impressive,
eye-catching, and make for a very pretty picture. You can even have each tier be a different flavor to up the tasty variety. The other nice thing about tiered cakes is that, though similar in shape, there’s no end to the myriad of styles you can apply to this classic design.
Tiers might be color blocked or adorned with textural elements for a cake with lots of delightful dimension. Ruffles are always pretty and look at home at a variety of weddings, from outdoor to ballroom. Cakes that glimmer with metallic luster are certainly growing in popularity. Edible sequins and gold leafing are a glamorous choice.
For more colorful weddings, consider a painted, illustrative, or ombre cake that draws out the color story of your wedding. Watercolor, geode, sculptural, or tile-inspired designs are modern showstoppers, while painted or fondant monogramming and lace details are a classic, elegant way to go.
While a lone tiered cake can be a stunner, there are lots of ways to feature your dessert table as décor. Instead of just one large wedding cake, consider three to five smaller tiered cakes, each in a different flavor to offer variety. These mini cakes can be displayed on staggered stands to add dimension. Cupcakes are another popular way to expand your wedding cake’s presence: Try showcasing the central cake surrounded by towers of matching cupcakes. You can even place a small cake at the center of each dinner table, so the dessert can double as a centerpiece.
Wedding dessert doesn’t have to stop at cake. In fact, many couples are embracing variety these days, to the delight of their guests. It’s not
WEDDING CAKE PIECES (1X2) PARTY CAKE PIECES (2X2)
uncommon to see a traditional cake paired with other sweets — think cookies (pretty macarons or homemade chocolate chip), truffles, or whole tables chock full of candy. Candy also makes a great favor, as you can give each guest a cute bag (personalized for your wedding day!) for filling with candies of their choice: chocolates, jellybeans, taffy, gummies, and more!
You can even think further outside the box to make your dessert experience an exceptionally memorable one. Having an outdoor wedding? Invite guests to roast marshmallows over an open fire, then stack their own s’mores. Build-your-own sundaes are a charming sweet for summer affairs, and a well-stocked stash of toppings will have the kid in every guest buzzing with excitement.
Feel free to get personal with your dessert selection, too, by serving your all-time favorite
WEDDING CAKE PIECES (1X2) PARTY CAKE PIECES (2X2)
sweets. Do you share a donut or chocolate chip cookie obsession? A display brimming with deepfried confections or loads of cookies can be fun and whimsical at a more laid-back wedding. Or choose two desserts — one for the bride and one for the groom. The bride’s dessert might be apple pie a la mode, and the groom’s dessert might be red velvet cake. Knowing these are your favorites will add a sweet, personal touch for your guests.
Who says dessert must be merely edible — why not drinkable, too? For winter weddings, hot chocolate bars are a cozy way for guests to warm up. Have help-yourself hot cocoa dispensers with an array of toppings: marshmallows, fresh whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and peppermint stirring sticks. A
coffee bar also makes a wonderful late-night treat. Consider hiring a barista for a portion of the evening to whip up lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso drinks to compliment pastries, biscotti, and specialty chocolates.
Whatever you decide on, take advantage of all food tastings. That shouldn’t be hard to do when desserts on the tasting menu! Go with your gut and choose the dessert you deem the tastiest, but also factor in the bakery’s efficiency and professionalism. The baker should return your calls and emails in a timely manner, be flexible with your needs, have some familiarity with your reception venue, and guarantee on-time delivery, set-up, serving, and clean-up (if needed).
Wedding cakes are typically priced by the slice, depending on the style, ingredients, size, and embellishments. Your reception site might also charge a plating fee, often per person, to cut and serve the cake. But ask about this; it might be negotiable.
The traditional cake cutting sounds like, well, a piece of cake! But it’s slightly more involved. Make sure you have a knife and lifter set to go; these might be engraved with your initials or decorated with ribbons in your wedding colors. Traditionally, the bride grasps the knife with her right hand and the groom covers her hand with his as they cut the cake together — and the crowd goes wild! B
In addition to offering their love and support, and perhaps a bit of the green stuff, your parents also play a big part in the celebration of your marriage. Their responsibilities are generally as follows, though you may want to customize this list for your personal situation.
• Parents formally announce your engagement in the newspaper in your hometown, your fiancé’s hometown and the town where you’ve chosen to make your home.
• Hosting the engagement party.
• Inviting the groom’s parents to their home.
• Assisting you with scheduling the rehearsal, ceremony and reception.
• Offering opinions and advice during the planning, but respecting your wishes.
• Preparing a list of restaurants should the groom’s parents ask for recommendations for the rehearsal dinner.
• Composing their portion of the guest list as early as possible. If needed, they may tactfully remind the groom’s mother that you need her list too.
• The mother of the bride should select a gown in a style and color that complements the bride’s gown, and inform the groom’s mother of her selection.
• Parents inform the groom’s family on a regular basis of all RSVPs from their list.
• The father of the bride should offer a toast to the newlyweds after the best man, groom and bride have shared their toasts. B
• Do you specialize in any certain styles or flavors?
• What do you recommend for an outdoor/seasonal reception?
• Can you customize a cake from a photo/idea?
• Can you match the cake colors to fabric swatches or flowers?
• Can you create individual cakes for wedding favors?
• Can you create specialized cakes for certain dietary needs?
• Do you offer a tasting?
• How long do you need to prepare the cake at the reception?
• Do you offer instruction on how to cut the cake?
• Will you supply a container to freeze the top of the cake?
• Will you charge for any supports or bases on the cake? May I return them for a refund?
• Do you provide a plateau or stand for the cake? If so, what is the charge? May I return it for a refund?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
• Great for Bachelor/ette parties
• Tours Walker’s Point & Historic Third Ward
• We provide the driver, you provide your own beer (canned only)
• Drink Specials
Milwaukee Pedal Tavern 414-250-8768 Book Online at PedalTavern.com
Accurate measurements and fit for maximum comfort and look. Voluptuous Secret’s has been accurately fitting women for 20 years.
• Bridal Corsettes
• Sizes 34B-50FF
• Everyday foundations
• Sexy or classic stylish lingerie & loungewear
It feels sooo good to be lifted!! 1740 N. Martin Luther King Dr. Milwaukee VoluptuousSecrets.com • 414-264-7776
• LushICE is a beautiful, hand-crafted, slow-melt ice product that adds a unique, elegant, WOW factor to your wedding events
• Wedding Reception, Engagement Party, Shower, Bachelor/ette Party, Rehearsal Dinner, Cocktail Hour, Signature Drinks, and more…
• Small, Large, Traditional and Virtual
• We can make anything! Contact us!
Ask about custom creations
RSVP to Christina at 920-287-1504 christina@luxurylushice.com
HOST YOUR NEXT BRIDAL, BACHELORETTE OR BACHELOR PARTY WITH THE OPTIONS OF GUIDED WINE OR WHISKEY TASTING, WITH NO RENTAL FEE!
• Intimate setting for you to enjoy 16 options on our glass pour list plus over 300 wines on the shelf and a selection of liquor, beer, cider, seltzer & non-alcoholic options.
• Cozy but sophisticated atmosphere for groups up to 50 people.
• Guided tastings of WI cheeses, mini cupcakes or flavored popcorn.
• Catering options also available.
Historic Third Ward • 219 E. Erie St., Milw. 414-277-8466 • vinothirdward.com
Browse through our gallery or let us help create a custom design. Call or visit our website for information 414-779-7000 • artbelowzero.com
1 Luke Combs Better Together
Ed Sheeran Perfect
Elvis Presley Can’t Help Falling In Love
Etta James At Last
Luke Combs Forever After All
Chris Stapleton Tennessee Whiskey
Restless Road Growing Old With You
Rascal Flatts My Wish
Phil Collins You’ll Be in My Heart
Tim McGraw Humble and Kind
Boyz II Men A Song for Mama
Lynyrd Skynyrd Simple Man
Louis Armstrong What a Wonderful World
Lee Ann Womack I Hope You Dance
Shania Twain Man! I Feel Like a Woman
Cyndi Lauper
Just Want to Have Fun
1 Ginuwine Pony 2 Def Leppard Pour Some Sugar on Me 3 Nelly Hot in Herre 4 Marvin Gaye Let’s Get It On 5 Queen Another One Bites the Dust
1 James Taylor How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) 2 Maroon 5 Sugar 3 DNCE Cake By the Ocean 4 Archies Sugar, Sugar 5 Four Tops I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
1 T.I. Feat. Jay-Z Bring ‘Em Out 2 Chris Brown Forever 3 Black Eyed Peas I Gotta Feeling 4 Daryl Hall & John Oates You Make My Dreams Come True 5 Beyonce Feat. Jay-Z Crazy in Love
1 Semisonic Closing Time 2 Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life 3 Journey Don’t Stop Believing 4 Neil Diamond Sweet Caroline 5 Donna Summer Last Dance
1 The Piano Guys A Thousand Years (Instrumental) 2 Haley Reinhart Can’t Help Falling in Love 3 Beatles Here Comes the Sun 4 Train Marry Me 5 Israel ‘Iz’ Kamakawiwo’ole Over the Rainbow
1 Natalie Cole This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) 2 Steve Wonder Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours
Bruno Mars Marry You
Daryl Hall & John Oates You Make My Dreams Come True
Queen Your My Best Friend
1 Natalie Cole This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)
Stevie Wonder Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours
Bruno Mars Marry You
Train Marry Me
Christina Perri A Thousand Years
Imagine a wedding without a soundtrack. Sounds crazy, right? From moving songs at the ceremony to classy cocktail hour tunes to the late-night dance jams, music does so much to set the tone at a wedding. Here are the many ways you might incorporate music into your wedding day, and some helpful tips for ensuring that your soundtrack goes off without a hitch.
VERSATILITY. Did you know DJs often provide lighting and audiovisual services, too? Ask about any perks they might offer!
What have you always envisioned for the soundtrack to your ceremony? A vocalist? String quartet? Solo pianist? When weighing your options for ceremony musicians, consider your vision, but also look to your wedding’s style and venue; make sure there is harmony between the location and the music you choose. Think back to past weddings you’ve attended. What did you like about the music for each ceremony? What didn’t work so well? Did you cry like a baby when friends of bride played a charming, acoustic tune? Did you cringe when the groom’s cousin, even with the best of intentions, sang entirely off-key? Your guests could likely react the same way, so choose wisely!
Once you and your fiancé have some ideas in mind, check out local musicians. Visit bridal shows, review bridal publications and online sources like premierbride.com, or ask for referrals from recently married friends or from your ceremony officiant. You could also work with an experienced talent or booking agency that offers convenient, one-stop-shopping for all your wedding music needs. Narrow down your options, and arrange meetings to hear your musicians and singers in person before signing any contracts.
After you’ve secured musicians for your ceremony, they can help you decide on what songs to include. Most musicians who specialize in weddings have a lot of valuable experience and will be a great resource for song suggestions. Your ceremony officiant will also be helpful in guiding your musical selections. Also, you may have to have the music approved by the officiant, depending on your ceremony location.
Background music is a must for bringing romance to the latter part of your wedding day. Conversation is key during cocktails and dinner, so the tunes should set the mood, but not intrude. You have three main options: use the musicians that played during your ceremony, use the band or DJ that will be playing at your reception, or hire entirely different musicians.
If you decide to have live music, some solid options include chamber music, classical or acoustic guitar, or a jazz ensemble. Each of these offers subtle entertainment without overpowering the scene of mixing and mingling. A seasoned pianist can also be a fun choice if he or she can play a wide range of musical styles and take requests!
If you go with your reception’s DJ or band, make sure they keep it on the softer side. You might even want to make a list of songs to be played during this time to keep the soundtrack on, well, track.
Dinner and dessert are over — it’s time to hit the dance floor! Let’s face it, this is one critical decision that can make or break an entire wedding. Fortunately, most musicians who specialize in weddings are talented professionals, and with the tips included here, you’ll be able to confidently select an excellent entertainer and selection of dance tunes for your big day. First and foremost, ask yourself: live band or DJ? While there are pros and cons to each, it always comes down to
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• May I see your references and a demo CD?
• May I see you perform at an event or bridal show?
• If I provide you with a list of songs, will you be able to play them?
• Can we control the volume of the music?
• How will you and other musicians be dressed?
• How long do you play with how many breaks?
• How long will you need to prepare or set up?
• Will you be able to act as master of ceremonies?
• When do you begin charging overtime?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
At Eventspark, we are proud to offer the best DJ’s in Milwaukee and are recognized as one of the youngest leaders in Milwaukee’s DJ and event production industry. Our services are modern, innovative, and customer friendly designed to simplify your planning process. 414.793.4779 eventsparkprod.com
personal taste and budget. Start researching musicians early in the wedding planning process. This way, once you find someone you like, availability is less likely to be an issue. Live music gives the evening a sort of festive energy and is a wonderful option if your budget allows. The key is finding a band that caters to weddings. These musicians offer versatility and will appeal to guests of all ages. Keep in mind that any live entertainment will require breaks, so find a solution that ensures music is always playing. If the band is large enough, it’s possible the band members can stagger their breaks so that someone is always playing. Or you can always configure a portable music-streaming and speaker hook-up to play some of your favorites that the band might not attempt.
In terms of expense, a live band will almost always cost more than a DJ. Keep this rule in mind: if you can’t afford a good wedding band, hire a DJ.
A DJ will be more cost-effective and can offer an almost infinite variety of music – truly something for everyone. Bonus: no breaks! Some keys to finding happiness in a DJ: 1) If possible, see them live before booking. 2) Consider personality. Are you looking for a crazy-fun, “put a ring on it” party animal or an upscale, keep-it-classy entertainer? 3) Ask for, and follow up on, several references. 4) Communicate. Clarify what songs and events (first dance, father & bride dance, bouquet & garter toss, etc.) you do or do not wish to include. Decide on the details ahead of time; make a “do not play” list of any songs you
simply can’t stand and a “must play” list of songs you don’t want to miss.
All things considered, whether you go for a band or a DJ, your dance party will be a guaranteed success as long as you treat your guests to a wide variety of music. From Frank Sinatra to Whitney Houston to Béyonce, diversity is key in playing a little something for everyone.
Consider your ceremony and reception site and how this might impact your choice of music and entertainment. Communicate with your site manager so you’re aware of any restrictions and so that he/she is aware of your plans ahead of time. If your entertainment has never performed at your chosen ceremony or reception site before, ask the site manager when they can visit the venue to make sure it meets their needs in terms of space, electricity, and lighting.
As with other wedding vendors, make sure the ins and outs of your agreement with your musicians is very clear and in writing. This includes payment, start and end times, fees for playing overtime, alternate plans if a musician is sick the day of your wedding, etc. If any of your vendors don’t use a contract, put all the details into a document and send one to the vendor and keep one for your records. Confirm all the details with your musicians about one week prior to your celebration.
Once you’ve done your homework, hired musicians for each stage of your wedding day, and worked out the details, you can rest easy. That is, until it’s time to start practicing your dance moves. B
SKIN TONE: Dark WEAR: Stark White, or almost any shade
SKIN TONE: Medium with yellow tones WEAR: Off-white or creamy ivory
SKIN TONE: Fair and pink-toned skin WEAR: Ivory
SKIN TONE: Medium with olive tones WEAR: Champagne or diamond white
You’re engaged – hooray! Now the fun begins (you think) of planning a lovely wedding - trying on wedding dresses, registering for gifts, choosing the perfect party favor… fun, fun, fun. Then reality sets in, and you discover that planning a wedding takes an incredible amount of work. It requires making countless decisions, handling thousands of details, juggling endless tasks and errands, and doing it all while also maintaining your relationships, job, life and sanity. What’s a stressed-out bride-to-be to do? We’ve got some suggestions for you!
Start early.
Obviously, the more time you have to plan, the more breathing room you have, and the more options you’ll have for wedding vendors. Give yourselves at least a year if possible, so that you can spread the work out over time, and have the most flexibility in securing your first-choice vendors.
Stay organized.
Here are the basics you’ll need to manage all the details, deadlines and duties. Have one large manila envelope to hold all contracts and receipts. Have another one on hand for all information, ideas, notes and resources. (This could also be a binder, or an accordion file… whatever works for you, just as long as it’s all in one place.) Keep all weddingrelated books, papers and other items in one place – the bookshelf in your home office, the corner of the guest bedroom – so that you always know where to find
something. And finally, write everything down. Keep a “wedding notebook” and a detailed calendar where you can put everything in writing. Don’t assume you’ll remember – 47 details later it may be gone!
Get help.
The very best thing you could do for a stress-free experience (and a relaxing, stress-free wedding DAY) is hire a wedding consultant. Many couples feel that this just ‘isn’t for them’ and yet, without question, it could make the critical difference between having a fun, enjoyable wedding experience, and having a grueling one. You can find a consultant for every budget, and every penny spent will have a priceless return.
Take breaks.
It’s easy to get so wrapped up in all things wedding that you forget to see movies, visit with friends on non-wedding topics, or to catch up on the world news. Take regular, restorative breaks from wedding planning where you don’t think about, talk about, or work on anything wedding-related. And remember, there is life beyond the wedding!
Cultivate gratitude.
When frustration or stress overwhelms you, take a moment to focus on everything going right, and everything in your life that is good. Write them down, or call a friend to share your ‘gratitude list.’ You’ll feel better in no time and regain your perspective. This is also a good time to take a break – see above! And, call your wedding consultant and let them help. B
Set Your Wedding Reception apart from the rest and make your dreams come true with our premier services!
Over Thirty Years Of Experience More than 1,900 Wedding Receptions Crafted For Our Delighted Clients!
w w w . t h e w e d d i n g d j a y . c o m
A wedding is just one day, so everyone knows photos are a great way of capturing the excitement and emotion for years to come. The professional photographer usually does a great job of snapping the couple, but pics of your friends and family members celebrating with you will be great mementos going forward.
MAKE A #HASHTAG FOR YOUR WEDDING. Make it easy for you and your guests to find and share all the images from your wedding on social media.
Whether you prefer an elegant formal reception or a casual picnic, all can be easily arranged and coordinated with the assistance of a professional rental consultant.
A good rental agent will work with you to personalize every detail of your special day. Take advantage of their expertise! You and your consultant work together in determining the location and tent size your wedding will require as well as the size of the dance floor and the size or placement of tables. Consider an outdoor wedding since its beauty and atmosphere will truly make your wedding an affair you and your guests will always remember. B
• What exactly is included in your package price? Props? Color choice? Personal message? Travel Charge?
• What does it look like, what are the space requirements and when should it be on?
• Will there be an attendant present the entire time?
• Do you use a high quality printer and photo paper?
• What are the payment and cancellation policies?
• Are there any current promotions or discounts available?
• When will you setup and breakdown?
• How many people can fit into the Photo Booth?
• Have you worked at my venue before? Do you provide references?
• Is there a limit on the number of pictures taken or printed?
• Is the Photo Booth handicap accessible?
• Do you offer any additional services or products such as a memory book/scrapbook?
On your wedding day, it’s all eyes on the bride. You’ll have that oncein-a-lifetime bridal glow, the groom’s jaw will drop, and swooning guests will whisper mid-ceremony, “Isn’t she lovely?” Combine your own unique sense of style with a few tricks of the beauty trade and you’ll be ready for adoring gazes and photos galore.
CONVENIENT BEAUTY. Hire makeup artists and hair stylists to come to you. It’s ideal for navigating any last-minute beauty emergencies.
What’s the difference between a makeup artist, cosmetologist, and esthetician? A makeup artist is the person a bride turns to on the day of her wedding, enhancing her own natural beauty. Cosmetologists do makeup, as well as, sometimes, skincare, nail care, and hair styling. Manicures and facials fall in the realm of cosmetology. Estheticians take things one step further. They perform services such as skincare treatments and hair removal that makeup artists and cosmetologists may not be licensed to.
Each of these beauty professionals — whether in the weeks and months leading up to your wedding, or on the wedding day itself — can help you look your best. Not only is it their job to help you become the most polished version of yourself, but it’s also one simple way to shorten your list of weddingday worries! A cosmetologist or esthetician can recommend the best pre-wedding treatments for you, and a makeup artist will know trade secrets not only for fashioning a longer-lasting look, but also for accentuating your features.
When it comes to hair, a great hairstylist can help you create a look that complements your facial features, headpiece, and veil — and do so in a way designed to stay set through the last dance. When you go pro, the end result is a relaxed, picture-perfect bride.
A great time to focus on healthy, glowing skin is when your wedding is still months away. If you’re concerned about the health and appearance of your skin, consider a visit to a dermatologist, for bigger problems, or an esthetician, for minor issues. Regular treatments result in refined pores, smoother facial lines, healed blemishes, and a more radiant complexion.
For full-body beautification, body waxing is a good place to start. This is one of the longestlasting forms of hair removal. Your legs will be smooth and free of razor stubble. If you’re of the opinion that a white gown’s best accessory is sunkissed skin, you’re not alone. But before hitting the tanning beds or getting a spray-tan, consider that it’s so easy to come away from the tanning salon looking either beet red or pumpkin orange. Proceed with caution.
When choosing a hairstyle, consider your gown, the formality of your wedding, your personal style, your hair type and texture, and your face shape. Generally speaking, if your gown is elaborate, opt for a simpler hairstyle to avoid looking overdone.
An updo is a classic way to go and is ideal for showing off a dramatic neckline. If you’re a trendy girl, try braids, hair extensions, or a tousled bohemian look. Just be cautious of overly-trendy styles, as you risk looking back at your photos and saying “What was I thinking?!”
If you’re considering any drastic changes to your hairstyle, make the change at least a couple of months before the wedding. That way, if you don’t like it, you have plenty of time to make changes or figure out how to style it to your best advantage.
Consult your hair stylist four to six weeks before the wedding to find the right look for you, and be sure to show the stylist a photo of your gown.
Whether you hire a pro to do your makeup, have a friend do it, or do it yourself, do a trial run before
1221 E Brady Street Milwaukee WI 53202 414.272.4256 www.halosalonmke.com
the wedding. In addition to looking in the mirror and getting feedback from close friends and family, take photos and evaluate. Now is the time to practice, not on the day of your wedding! Keep the makeup on throughout the trial day and see how it lasts. How does it look at two, five, and even eight hours later? Is it easy enough to touch up?
This is another time you want to be sure you look like you. Your partner fell in love with your beautiful face and would never want you to cover it up! But you can still have fun with it and pamper yourself. Define your eyebrows with a pencil and try fake eyelashes so that your eyes really pop in photos. Highlight key places, try a bold lip color, or use a primer under your foundation, lipstick, and eyeshadow so that it lasts longer. Whatever you do, wear waterproof mascara to fend off any streaks from tears of joy.
Regular manicures in the one or two months before your wedding day will get your nails in perfect shape. As a rule, it’s best to avoid really trendy nail polish colors. Play it safe and go with a classic, neutral color, so you’ll have no regrets years down the road.
Have your eyebrows professionally shaped at least two weeks before the wedding. If you’ve never done this before, you’ll be amazed at how different you look with wellgroomed brows! Some people may experience a red, rash-like reaction, so doing this early enough gives you time to recover if it happens to you.
In the end, always remember that a bride’s best beauty secret is her smile! B
the best man
• Assists groom with wedding details such as accommodations for out-of-town groomsmen and ushers.
• Sees that the groom is properly attired and at the church or synagogue on time. Ties bowties, provides drinks, if applicable and otherwise supports the To-Be-Wed.
• Gives the minister a sealed envelope with payment (from the groom) immediately following the ceremony.
• Signs the marriage license as a witness.
• Holds the bride’s ring during the ceremony.
• Coordinates the ushers and makes sure they are properly dressed and understand where to seat the guests.
• Sits to the bride’s right at the reception providing charming conversation throughout.
• May dance with the maid/matron of honor during the first dance.
• Proposes the first toast to the newlyweds.
• Holds luggage under lock and key until the bride and groom depart.
• Helps the groom change into going-away attire.
• Escorts the bride and groom to their limousine or drives them to the hotel or airport.
• Returns all formalwear rentals on time, and to the correct formalwear shop.
• Assists maid of honor in transporting gifts to the bride and groom’s home. B
• Assists the bride with pre-wedding tasks including smiling while making tiny favors out of birdseed, because that’s what she really wanted.
• Assists bride in setting a date to have bridesmaid’s dresses fitted and coordinates other bridesmaids to ensure they get to the proper location on time.
• Attends all pre-wedding parties and hosts a bridal shower with other bridesmaids.
• Arranges the bride’s veil and train before the grand walk down the aisle
• Holds the bride’s bouquet during the ring exchange.
• Holds the groom’s ring during the ceremony.
• Stands next to the groom in the receiving line and sits to his left at the head table.
• Signs the marriage certificate as a witness.
• May dance with the best man during the first dance.
• Helps the bride bustle her train, remove her headpiece and change into going-away outfit.
• Attends to the bride throughout the day such as running errands and tying up loose ends, calming nerves and otherwise ensuring the success of the wedding celebration.
• May assume responsibility for transporting the bride’s gown home or to the cleaners.
• May assist the best man with transporting gifts to the bride and groom’s home. B
YOUR MAKEUP STYLE IS AS IMPORTANT TO YOUR LOOK AS YOUR WEDDING DRESS.
Work with a professional makeup artist from our studio to design a look that is perfectly you, whether fresh and natural or runway glamorous. We will take the time to perfect what’s perfect for you and give a long lasting finish that will last from morning mimosas to the last dance!
Individually owned and operated for over 30 years by local businesswomen. Thank you for your support!
Please call or visit our websites for more information on pricing and availability.
MERLE NORMAN BROOKFIELD www.mnsalonbrookfield.com 262-782-4406
Makeup, Hair, Facials, Waxing, Lash/Brow
MERLE NORMAN HALES CORNERS www.mnhalescorners.com 414-421-3788
Makeup, Facials, Waxing, Brows
© 2022 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios have been independently owned and operated since 1931.
Whether you are standing in front or walking down the aisle as the ceremony begins, all eyes are on you. You deserve to look your best dressed in the perfect suit and tie for the most perfect day.
MIX & MATCH. No one said your attendants have to match in height or age. Feel free to pair bridesmaids and groomsmen as you think they would feel most comfortable - also feel free to throw in a loaner!
In warm weather, think lighter colors (tan, light grey, white). In all climates, darker colors (navy, charcoal, black) always look sharp. Ties, vests, and cummerbunds can match the wedding colors, or compliment them with neutrals. Add some personality with colored socks and suspenders, or unique boutonnieres.
If the bride’s gown is ivory, the men should wear ivory shirts, not white, to compliment her.
Semiformal and formal wedding styles vary, so a groom should work with a formalwear consultant to get the right look for his wedding’s level of formality. The most formal look is “white tie,” calling for a traditional black tux with tails, a vest, a white winged-collar shirt, and bow tie.
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• What formal wear is best with the time and style of my wedding?
• Are alterations, shoes, studs, vests and cuff links included in the rental fee?
• When should fitting appointments be made?
• Can tuxedos be tried on when they are picked up?
• When can the formal wear be returned?
• How can out-of-town guests send measurements?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
When shopping for formalwear, bring color swatches of the bridesmaids’ dresses and pictures of formalwear styles he likes. Nowadays, rental suits come in various fits: classic, modern, and slim. But buying your formalwear promises custom tailoring and the best fit. Fit is key to looking your best.
Out-of-town groomsmen can get measured at any formalwear store or local tailor’s near them, and send their measurements to the groom or to your formalwear store.
Someone should be designated to return all formalwear to the store on time in order to avoid late fees, which can get quite expensive adding up the per day, per outfit costs.
While there are etiquette guidelines for a groom’s attire, remember that men’s formalwear doesn’t have to be stuffy. B
Just a few minutes north of Milwaukee, Washington County a great alternative to the big city. Quaint downtowns with restaurants and shopping along with tremendous parks, trails and open green spaces galore. 4
From your home to the ceremony to photo locations to the reception and beyond, it’s fitting that the bride, groom, and bridal party travel in style. Some opt for limos and other luxury vehicles, others take a turn on the trolley, and some go by golf cart. There are lots of fun, fashionable ways to get from here to there on your wedding day. Here are some ideas.
HERE COMES THE RIDE! Consider setting up a personal event code through Uber or Lyft. Guests input the code when they order their ride, and the trip is charged to you. You only pay for the rides used!
Your search for transportation starts once you decide how many people you’ll be moving. Do you want just the bride and the groom or the entire wedding party? What about their spouses or dates? Due to safety and convenience concerns, it’s becoming more common for buses and trolleys to be used shuttling guests to and from wedding events.
A formal limousine seats four people. Stretch limos can allow for six to 10. Larger, sport utility models are often posh, with flashy lights and decorative interiors. A party bus or a luxury coach is also a great way to travel. These boast all the amenities and style of a luxury limousine and seat up to 10 people very comfortably. For even bigger parties, a passenger coach or a party bus can seat anywhere from 21 to 49 people.
For a more unique photo-ready option, consider a trolley which generally accommodates between 20 and 35 people. With their old-world charm, they’ll lend a timeless touch to this wedding day detail. Even more special? A horse-drawn carriage or vintage car lends ample romance.
Transportation could also be an opportunity to add a truly personal touch. Maybe you met at a Harley rally — rev up your twin Hogs! Or maybe you share a love of biking — wheel over on a tandem. If it’s possible to reflect your own personality in your wedding transportation, go for it!
BONUS TIPS:
• Customize your playlist and hook up to your transportation’s sound system.
• Have a point person — perhaps a close relative or groomsman — designated to coordinate with the chauffeur. B
• What types of transportation modes do you offer? What are their features and benefits?
• How many people does each option comfortably fit?
• What packages do you offer? What do they include?
• Are your charges based on time or distance?
• Do you have a minimum rental time? What are the charges after that time?
• What does your insurance cover?
• Can you guarantee a certain vehicle for the day of my wedding?
• How will the driver be dressed?
• Do you or can we do any decorating?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
Wedding reception games are a great way to keep your guests entertained while you are being photographed before the reception or as they wait for food! Some games are also a fun way for your guests to get to know you and your partner a little better!
Create a Mad Libs-style template for your guests to fill out at their tables for marriage and love advice. This is a wedding game guests can do alone, or the whole table can get in on the fun, sharing their tips on how to keep the romance alive, fun ideas for “married dates,” and other words of wisdom.
Create a list of trivia questions for each guest to fill out at the table. Have a member of the wedding party collect and read the cards to determine the winner. The guest with the most correct answers wins!
Place a disposable camera on each guest table with a list of special moments to capture. Each group will have a different shot from their perspective. Some examples could be the first dance, “cheers,” table selfie, or just let them choose! You won’t know what you end up with until you take the cameras to be developed!
If you think you know all about these traditional events, think again! Bachelor and bachelorette parties are about friends getting together, sharing old stories and, perhaps, creating some new memories. A weekend immersed in an outdoor adventure with plenty of time before and after for fine dining and visits to the local pubs is a great way to do just that!
Adventures include white water rafting, cattle drives, deep sea fishing, ATV desert rides, sky diving … well you get the idea. The adventure also can be adjusted to fit the skill level of the group.
The adventure bachelor parties give the best man, who didn’t take “Party Planning 101,” a chance to sign up the group and then relax. From the time the groomsmen arrive at the destination city until they depart, everything is
planned out, orchestrated and included in the modest pricing. Choosing a destination close to home, within driving distance, or at a mid point that is convenient to all members, is a plus. Too often out of town guys must make two costly trips to the wedding city. The same concepts and advantages apply for the gals.
questions you or your fiancé need to be thinking about are:
1. How many people are involved and where are they coming from?
2. What type of adventure is appropriate?
3. What is our price range, considering all the members of the group?
4. How much time is there to schedule the event?
5. How do I learn more? B
Both the bachelor and bachelorette parties celebrate the end of singlehood and include the wedding party and same-sex friends of the bride or groom.
Renting a room in a restaurant or hotel allows guests to fully enjoy themselves. It also makes planning easy since an experienced staff handles most of the food arrangements and cleanup. Bridal showers and bachelorette parties can also be combined into one event, especially if the same group of friends will be attending both. If a night of barhopping is the choice, treat yourself to a limousine ride for both elegance and safety. Consider having your bachelor(ette) party at a casino. A professional staff and dealers, gaming tables and equipment can even be brought to YOUR location. Casinos offer assistants to help plan your event. Professional staffs of waitresses, bartenders and anyone else you might need can even be provided.
A home party might feature diverse entertainment. For example, a comedy gram or some other entertainment is an option and it can be catered with prepared party trays. A bachelorette party can even take the form of a shower featuring lingerie, gag gifts or items to be used on the honeymoon.
Bachelor and bachelorette parties are best held a week before the wedding and not the night before. The most important thing is to be sure that the event suits the style of the guest of honor. Finally, remember to preserve the evening in pictures. You will want to have these memories long after the party is over. B
With the whirlwind of planning and parties behind you, it’s time to get away! From the planning stages to the trip itself, here are some of our best honeymoon ideas and advice.
IT’S ALL IN THE NAME. If your last name will change, book tickets in your maiden name and make the change official after the honeymoon.
ALTERNATIVES TO CHURCH ceremony
If you prefer to wed in a simple, yet religious atmosphere, a nondenominational chapel could be the answer. This is especially common if your religious backgrounds differ or if there are other complications such as annulment delays. The intimate setting of a chapel also allows for the freedom to add personal touches including unique music or personalized wedding vows.
Special services provided by the owners of such chapels can vary from tuxedo rental and decorations to photography and catering. Additionally, preserving a date at a chapel rather than at a church may be easier especially if you want to marry within a short time of the engagement.
The scene of a sentimental moment shared between the two of you can be turned into the place where you say, “I do.” Weddings are performed in parks, on cruise ships, under a temporary trellis in a backyard, or in the privacy of one’s home. Other options to explore are canopies, tents or gazebos set up outdoors or you can even exchange your marriage vows in the beauty of nature such as on a beach, in a field or in a forest.
Weather, shelter and the number of guests must obviously be taken into consideration, but many businesses cater to these unique circumstances and can assist you in planning your wild and wonderful outdoor event. B
Flight confirmation Hotel Confirmation ID (passport and driver's license)
Camera Sunglasses Lip balm Gum/Snacks Chargers Headphones
Bra/underwear/socks Bathing suit Shorts Tops Jeans Nice dinner dress Sundress Lingerie Pajamas
Boxers/socks Bathing suit Shorts Tops Jeans Nice shirt for dinner
Body wash Shampoo/conditioner
Toothpaste/toothbrush Razors
Contacts/solution Glasses
Vitamins/medication
Light jacket or cardigan Sandals Sneakers Heels Tampons/pads Makeup Skincare Jewelry Hair tools
Suit Belt Pajamas Flip Flops Sneakers Dress Shoes
Q-tips Hair ties Nail clippers/file Brush Deodorant First aid kit Sunscreen
Some of the world’s most beautiful wedding and reception venues, photo opportunities, and luxe accommodations can be found far from home, but destination weddings come with special planning challenges.
12 MONTHS BEFORE
• choose date & venue
• contact venue’s on-site wedding coordinator
• research airfare & room rates for your destination
• review legal marriage requirements
9 MONTHS BEFORE
• visit resort
• tour venue & guest rooms
• ask about group discounts
• send out save-the-dates & hotel info
6 MONTHS BEFORE
• reserve block of rooms
• book travel
• book officiant
• purchase travel & wedding insurance
• confirm cake, flowers, menu, & decor
3 MONTHS BEFORE
• send formal invitations
• create wedding day itinerary for your programs
1 MONTH BEFORE
• discuss final details with wedding coordinator
• finalize vows, music, & schedule
• release any extra rooms from your room blocks
• have programs printed & obtain additional wedding favors & ship to resort
2 WEEKS BEFORE
• make sure you have proper documentation to obtain marriage license
• collect all insurance related documents
1 WEEK BEFORE
• create a photo shot list for your photographer
• share contact info with wedding party
• final check with coordinator
More and more couples are planning destination weddings and combining their wedding celebration and honeymoon. Here are a few reasons why.
For anyone with a sense of adventure, there is no limit to the fun you can have when you choose a destination wedding. That’s why many brides and grooms are no longer taking the traditional church route, but instead looking for the perfect foreign country, distant mountain or secluded beach. From riding a camel across the desert to exchanging vows underwater in Mauritius, anything is possible with a destination wedding.
One reason that so many couples are choosing destination weddings nowadays is
because brides are busy. Most destination wedding resorts around the world have wedding planners who take care of the details so that you don’t have to.
Destination weddings allow couples to express themselves. Often, for the second or third time couple, it is about making a statement and expressing to family and friends an idea of how they see their future together.
Destination weddings can also be taken care of at once. Usually the wedding planner will handle the flowers, photographer, caterer, musicians and reception area, all with your input. In most cases, the wedding planner will take care of the marriage license too and all you have to do is send the necessary documents. B
A Caribbean Island with French Flair: where pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and French influence meet.
Saint-Barthélemy Island in the Caribbean, also known as St. Barts or St. Barths, blends vibrant blue waters, white sandy beaches, and all the elegance of Paris for an unmatched tropical destination. As on Overseas Collectivity of France with roots in French influence dating back hundreds of years, it’s little wonder that French is the official language and the Euro is the currency of St. Barts. However, English is also spoken fluently and American dollars are often accepted, making it incredibly easy on U.S. honeymooners.
At just 11 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, you could drive the whole of the island in about half an hour. Temperatures remain between the low 70s and low 90s year-round. The island draws the biggest crowds from December through May, and hotels are likely to close altogether during hurricane season.
There are no direct flights to St. Barts. The airport is small and the runway, even smaller. To get to St. Barts by plane, you’ll first have to fly to another Caribbean island, then take a small propeller plane to reach your destination. Many recommend flying into San Juan, Puerto Rico, for
ease of travel and clearing customs to and from the United States. Alternatively, there is a ferry you can take, but sources say it’s less reliable than flying, and choppy waters may start your honeymoon off on the wrong foot.
With its penchant for opulence, designer shopping, European influences, and celebrity sightings, St. Barts has been called the French Riviera of the Caribbean for good reason. Relative to the actual Riviera, St. Barts offers the best of both French sophistication and laid-back Caribbean vibes. Alongside stunning shorelines, you’ll find trendy beach clubs, gourmet restaurants, and luxury hotels. It’s truly a recipe for romance.
In the capital city of Gustavia, the harbor is lined with lavish yachts and sailboats in the midst of ample natural beauty and accessible outdoor activities, like hiking and water sports. Unlike other Caribbean islands, St. Barts isn’t about being confined to your resort. Rather, you’ll enjoy wandering the island, partaking in the nightlife, and sampling local eateries and worldclass shopping. It’s perfect for honeymooners in search of both beach life and total glamor.
To avoid crowds and perhaps snag a better price, it’s recommended to travel to St. Barts in November or June. You may find however, if you’re on a tight budget, that this luxurious little island may not be to your liking altogether. But consider this: it’s your honeymoon! You deserve a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That said, we’ll share some of the best ways to stay moneyconscious on a trip to St Barts.
As fancy restaurants and bars are a culprit of copious spending, start by considering your mealtime budget. Spend smartly by packing a picnic for your day at the beach instead of paying beaucoup bucks at a pricey beach club. You might start your morning by visiting a local bakery for breakfast pastries and sandwiches to take along for later. If you’re staying at an Airbnb or condo with a kitchen, cooking your own meals is another way to save.
Gouverneur beach looks like a postcard, with its white sand and turquoise waters. Its landscape is unique, it seems that Monbars the pirate has hidden his treasure there. saintbarth-tourisme.com
When planning your trip, give yourself ample time to look for special offers and compare high season rates to shoulder season. Be prepared to be flexible. When you get to St. Barts, make nature your primary source of entertainment. Miles of beaches, azure waters, and picturesque hikes are all yours for the taking, and at no charge.
Lastly, rent a car to ensure you have maximum freedom to explore the island. Cabs are expensive and hard to come by, and there’s no reason you should rely on a driver when St. Barts is so easy to navigate on your own. It’s truly impossible to get lost! In the end, our recommendation is to be conscious of spending and prioritize your wants and needs accordingly. Save in areas that are maybe more expendable in favor of splurging on what really matters to you and your partner. For example, you might choose to skip shopping, instead opting to spring for a nice dinner every night.
There are 22 public beaches to explore in St. Barts, but there are a handful that stand out from the rest. Saint-Jean Beach on the north coast is located minutes from the capital city of Gustavia. While the beach itself is quiet, the town of Saint-Jean is buzzing with hotels, shops, and restaurants. The airport is nearby, so the daily parade of small planes arriving to the island brings hours of endless entertainment. If you’re in the mood to imbibe beachside, the Nikki Beach Bar is a famous one here.
Even closer to Gustavia is Shell Beach, a mere 5-minute walk from the city center. Shell Beach rests at the bottom of a rocky cove and is lined with shells that are so finely crushed, they appear as white as sand. West facing, Shell Beach is a perfect spot to catch a sunset.
Also on the western side of the island is Colombier Beach, which takes some effort to get to but is totally worth it. This protected area of the island’s natural marine reserve is a halfhour trail walk, as there are no direct roads. Of course, for those with yachts, they will approach Colombier Beach by the water. So depending on the season, the cove may be filled with luxury boats, or it may feel rather private and secluded. A honeymooner’s dream! There’s also ample sealife to be spotted here, such as sea turtles, leopard rays, lobsters, and starfish.
Another beach for watching wildlife is Saline Beach, which CNN has ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. This seeminglyendless stretch of fine sand and turquoise water is located to the south-east. Compared to other beaches on St. Barts, this one feels more unexplored and less crowded.
Last on our short list, the east-facing Gouverneur Beach is situated on the southern cape and features pale sands against a lush backdrop. The beach is bookended with rocky formations that lend a sense of isolation and privacy for a peaceful, undisturbed setting.
Any island in the Caribbean will have you feeling spoiled for choice as far as gorgeous vistas and outdoor activities, and St. Barts is no exception. The landscape of St. Barts is a hilly one, so there are lots of hikes with pictureperfect views. The aforementioned Colombier Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a hike and beach in one. And all across the island, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from kite surfing to kayaking, paddle boarding to snorkeling and diving. If you and your partner don’t see eye-toeye on such activities, never feat. You can stay planted on a white-sand beach while they go adventuring.
If money is no object and you’re looking to experience something truly exceptional during your St. Barts honeymoon, there are two annual events to consider planning around. First is the St. Barts Bucket Regatta, which is an annual boat race that takes place over three days in March. Who is racing? Owners of superyachts, or yachts measuring over 100 feet. It’s an exhilarating race and impressive nautical event that’s not to be missed, particularly if you’re a sailing enthusiast.
Another event that you’ll treasure forever is New Year’s Eve on St. Barts. As the clock strikes twelve, fireworks fill the sky and yachts sound their foghorns in celebration. Festivities continue through the night, and there’s no shortage of glamor and glitterati. With all of the A-listers who return annually to ring in the new year on St. Barts, joining in these festivities may seem out of reach. But as it’s your honeymoon, we say: dare to dream. B
Imagine riding in a horse-drawn carriage through a vibrant autumn forest; snuggling in front of a cozy fire as snowflakes fall gently outside; discovering the first wildflowers of spring along a winding, wooded trail; or basking in the sun on a white sand beach as waves gently lap the shore. With over 300 miles of shoreline and its quiet, wooded landscape dotted with quaint harbor side villages and historic lighthouses; Door County provides an ideal backdrop for a romantic getaway.4
Sunrise at Baileys Harbor.
Photo courtesy Door County Visitor Bureau
The ten villages that make up Door County offer dozens of specialty shops, galleries and studios to browse through. Local restaurants feature everything from traditional Door County fish boils to candlelight gourmet dinners. Many newlyweds enjoy a winery tour or two at the five wineries in Door County. Others take in one of the many seasonal festivals or sample cultural offerings ranging from chamber music festivals and theater in the woods, to drive-in, double feature movies under the stars.
For couples who prefer to get away from it all, there are countless breathtaking views in Door County just waiting to be discovered. Cave Point, on Lake Michigan’s shore, is one popular spot for honeymooners, with its spectacular rock formations and pounding waves. And to many, nothing is more romantic than exploring the back roads on a bicycle built for two.
Some newlyweds enjoy Door County’s shoreline scenes from an elegant concert or dinner cruise, a snug little paddle-boat, a tranquil canoe, or even a picnic blanket on the shore. Others comb the waters of Lake Michigan in search of legendary shipwrecks. Even winter can’t put a damper on the romance in Door County, with its picturesque horse-drawn sleigh rides, serene cross-country skiing, snow-laden trees and cozy inns.
No matter what the season, budget or lifestyle, Door County is the perfect honeymoon destination. There is a magical lure to Door County that draws couples back again and again. Its closeness to home makes it ideal for romantic getaways long after the honeymoon is over, keeping the romantic spark alive for many years to come.
Contact the Door County Visitor Bureau at 800-527-3529 for personal assistance or visit DoorCounty.com. B
Get Out of Town!
Luckily, you don’t have to hop on a plane to get the wonderful benefits of a destination wedding or elopement. Often times, you can have it all right in your own backyard! By turning to a local destination like Door County, a spot just a few hours from your hometown, you can enjoy the thrill of a true get-away with all the convenience of being close to home.
Money on your mind? Costs may be lower outside of the city, or you might find you get more bang for your buck. Regardless, a local destination will always be more affordable than
It’s always ‘wedding season’ at Stone Harbor Resort, regardless of the time of year!
getting married in a place that’s a plane ride away. Plus, if most of your guests live within driving distance, it will be more convenient and cost-effective for them, too. A destination wedding that’s within a few hours of home allows busy guests, especially families with small children, to come and go as needed or desired. itself to a smaller affair. If you’re looking to invite only a small group of close family or friends, or even keep things family-only, a local destination opens up the possibility of an entire wedding weekend, as opposed to just one night. If you do invite guests to spend the weekend celebrating with you, be sure to consider entertainment along the way. Make a guide for them, or include information on your wedding website of places to go, things to eat, and sights to see.
December or May, big or small, afternoon or evening, traditional or decidedly not. Whatever your preference, the staff at Stone Harbor Resort will help you make your dream a reality.
wedding but don’t know where to start, begin by researching hotels and resorts near you. Everyone who travels to spend your wedding weekend with you will require a hotel stay anyway, so hosting the entire celebration at a hotel would be an easy way to approach the wedding planning. Chances are you’ll be able to find a hotel or resort that offers everything you need, right on site. Some resorts even have restaurants, spas, salons, and other amenities to keep you and your guests wedding ready, well fed, and plenty entertained.
Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center 107 North 1st Avenue • Sturgeon Bay (920) 746-0700
www.stoneharbor-resort.com
Door County? Check out our favorites on the preceding pages or visit premierbride.com for more information.
Minutes from the Village of Egg Harbor, the Landmark Resort is nestled within the natural forestry in the heart of Door County. With a panoramic view of the glistening bay below, celebrate your landmark moment with beauty and serenity.
Bridal shows can sometimes feel overwhelming but with a little planning, they can save you money, provide outstanding ideas and let you sample tasty treats. It can be a great one-stop-shopping experience if you go prepared. The vendors are local wedding professionals, and ready and willing to answer your questions.
DON’T GO TO A BRIDAL SHOW ALONE! You need others’ objective opinions and perhaps some physical help carrying around the many things you will inevitably pick up.
Wonderful World of Weddings
Milwaukee and Southeast Wisconsin (visit premierbridewisconsin.com/shows-events for most up-to-date listings)
JANUARY 15, 2023
WINTER WEDDING SHOW
Fete of Wales, 500 E Summit Ave. Wales Show Times: 10am-2pm 262-528-3383
JANUARY 21, 2023
LAKE GENEVA WINTER BRIDAL EXPO
The Riviera, 812 Wrigley Dr. Lake Geneva Show Times: 10am-3pm 262-298-0502 – lgwinterbridalexpo.com
JANUARY 29, 2023
WATERTOWN BRIDAL FAIRE
Turner Hall, 301 S 4th St., Watertown Show Times: 10am-2:30pm 920-261-7770
FEBRUARY 5, 2023
TERRACE 167 WINTER BRIDAL FAIR Richfield Show Times: 11am-2pm 262-623-6588 – Terrace167.com SEE PAGE 247
FEBRUARY 5, 2023
RACINE BRIDAL SHOWCASE
Fountain Banquet Hall 8505 Durand Ave., Sturtevant Show Times: 11am-2pm 262-656-6209
FEBRUARY 19,2023
KENOSHA BRIDAL SHOWCASE
The Stella Hotel & Ballroom 5706 8th Ave., Kenosha Show Times:11am-2pm 262-656-6209
February 5, 2023 Show Times: 11am-2pm
Terrace 167 Hwy 167, Richfield 262-623-6588 • Terrace167.com
MARCH 29, 2023
FEBRUARY 26, 2023
VETERAN’S TERRACE BRIDAL SHOW
Veteran’s Terrace, Burlington Show Times: 11am-2:30pm 262-763-9400 – veteransterrace.com
FEBRUARY 2023 WISDOM FROM THE WEDDING WHISPERS ringtunes@yahoo.com
FEBRUARY 5, 2023
BRIDAL SHOWCASE
Rosewood 2484 Cty Rd O South., Delavan Show Times: 11am-2pm 262-725-7286
MARCH 5, 2023
BRIDAL EXPO MILWAUKEE
Milwaukee Marriott West, Waukesha Doors Open: 10:30am-3pm For Free Tickets Call: 414-427-4325 bridalexpomilwaukee.com
SEE PG 25 & 246
MARCH 5, 2023
GENEVA LAKE BRIDAL SHOWCASE
The Ridge Hotel W4240 State Hwy 50, Lake Geneva Show Times: 11am-2pm 262-656-6209
MARCH 29, 2023
WEDMKE: A UNIQUE ENGAGEMENT
Turner Hall Ballroom, Milwaukee Show Times: 4pm – 8pm wedmke.com
SEE PG 247
MARCH 12, 2023
17TH ANNUAL WEDDING & QUINCEANERA EXPO Serb Hall, Milwaukee 10am – 5pm 414-383-1000 conquistadornews.com
SEE PG 250
APRIL 2, 2023
LAKE COUNTRY WEDDING SHOW
The Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee Show Times: 11am-3pm 262-547-0201 lakecountryweddingshow.com
SEE PG 250
APRIL 2, 2023
WISCONSIN’S LARGEST WEDDING RUMMAGE SALE
Presented by Rustic Manor 1848 Waukesha County Expo Center Show Times: 11am-2pm 262-224-0316 Rusticmanor1848.com
MAY 21, 2023
BRIDAL EXPO MILWAUKEE
Brookfield Sheraton Doors Open: 10:30am-3pm For Free Tickets Call: 414-427-4325 bridalexpomilwaukee.com
SEE PG 25 & 246
SPRING 2023
RISE-A FASHION SHOW
Historic Pritzlaff Bldg. 325 N Plankinton Ave, MKE 414-755-2900 missrubyboutique.com
SPRING 2023
“LOVE AT THE MEMORIAL” BRIDAL EXPO
The War Memorial Center, MKE Show Times: 11am-4pm 414-273-5533 ext 100
SEPTEMBER 17, 2023
BRIDAL EXPO MILWAUKEE Brookfield Sheraton Doors Open: 10:30am-3pm For Free Tickets Call: 414-427-4325 bridalexpomilwaukee.com
SEE PG 25 & 246
NOVEMBER 5, 2023 BRIDAL EXPO MILWAUKEE Brookfield Sheraton Doors Open: 10:30am-3pm For Free Tickets Call: 414-427-4325 bridalexpomilwaukee.com
SEE PG 25 & 246
DECEMBER 6, 2023 WEDMKE: A UNIQUE ENGAGEMENT
Turner Hall Ballroom, Milwaukee Show Times: 4-8pm – wedmke.com JANUARY 6 & 7, 2024 56TH ANNUAL WONDERFUL WORLD OF WEDDINGS Expo Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park, Milwaukee 262-367-5500 WisconsinWeddingShow.com SEE PG 249
• Will you perform the ceremony at a non-religious site such as a hotel or club ballroom?
• Can we write our own vows, select music and readings or is there a standard format?
• Will premarital counseling be required, and if so, what will that entail?
• If we have been previously married or belong to different faiths, will you marry us?
• If it is an interfaith marriage, will both officiants participate together?
• Are there any special rules or restrictions for the ceremony?
• Is there a ceremony fee?
• How far in advance must I book your services?
• What is your cancellation policy?
Planning little details comes with the territory of getting married, from what your dress will look like to what you eat. But, one of the biggest decisions to make is who do you all want to include on your wedding day. A big guest list or a small one, whichever you choose, there is a special reason you chose each and every person. Creating the perfect guest book is a great way to remember the night and everyone who attended. Long gone are the traditional books of just having the couple write their name, now you are able to create something that is special and fitting to your and your spouses’ personalities. From having guests sign a painting to display in your house to leaving you verbal messages, the possibilities are endless. Read on to get inspired by these guest book ideas.
What makes up your day more than the place you got married and the people who attended? Create a beautiful photo or painting of your wedding venue for guests to sign and hang in your home to reminisce on forever.
Have your guests snap a photo and write a special message in a beautiful journal. A great addition for the coffee table to open ad remember how the guests looked on your special night along with their meaningful wishes.
Are you and your sweetie more on the outdoorsy side? Have your guests sign the branches of a tree representing who all helped you grow in life.
These may be the only voicemails you’ll be excited to listen to. A fun new trend where guests are able to leave audio messages and wishes for the happy couple.
Is the rustic vibe a little more your style? Create a beautiful wood sign with your name and wedding date!
Do you have a favorite movie?
The guest book is a great way to incorporate something special that bonds you and your spouse.
• CATERING
• COSMETICS (See Makeup)
& FAVORS
• DANCE INSTRUCTION
• DÉCOR (Also see Rentals)
• DESTINATION WEDDINGS (See Travel Agencies)
• DOOR COUNTY WEDDINGS
• DRY CLEANING / GOWN Preservation
• EXCITING & DIFFERENT
• FAVORS & GIFTS
• FIREWORKS
• FLORISTS (and Rental Items)
• FORMALWEAR
• GOWNS, CUSTOM (See full listing of bridal salons online at premierbrideMKE.com/ bridal-salons)
• HAIR (See Beauty)
• HONEYMOON (See Travel Agencies & Door County Weddings)
• HOTELS/CLUB SUITES (Also see Banquets & Venues)
• ICE SCULPTURES
• INVITATIONS
• JEWELRY (CUSTOM)
• LIMOUSINES (See Transportation)
• LINGERIE
• LIVE PAINTER
• MAKEUP (Also See Beauty)
• MASSAGE (See Spas)
• MEDSPA & SPA
• MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
• MUSIC, SPECIALTY/LIVE
• ONLINE VENDOR RESOURCE
• PHOTOGRAPHY
• PHOTOGRAPHYBOUDOIR
• PHOTO BOOTHS
• PLANNERS/EVENT COORDINATORS
• REGISTRY
• REHEARSAL DINNER, CEREMONIES AND INTIMATE WEDDINGS
• RENTALS
• RESTROOMS (See Rentals)
• SIGNAGE
• TRANSPORTATION
• TRAVEL AGENCIES & HONEYMOONS
• VIDEOGRAPHY
Vino Third Ward
Historic Third Ward 219 E. Erie St., Milwaukee vinothirdward.com 414-277-8466
(See pg 183)
Whirly Brookfield, LLC. 185 South Moorland Rd. Brookfield whirlyball.com/brookfield 262-786-7777 (See pg 74)
1896 Room 6996 Pennsylvania Ave., Oconomowoc 262-269-9095 (See pg 85)
1903 Weddings
500 West Canal Street, Milwaukee 1903events.com 877-HD-MUSEUM (See pg 11)
Bartolotta’s
Bacchus – A Bartolotta Restaurant 414-765-1166 925 E. Wells, Milwaukee Bartolotta Catering & Events 414-765-8610 at Discovery World 500 Harbor Dr., Milwaukee Bartolotta Catering & Events 414-727-6980 at The Grain Exchange 225 E. Michigan St., Milwaukee Bartolotta Catering & Events 414-223-2800 at The Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee
Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro 414-962-6300 3133 E. Newberry Blvd., Milwaukee Harbor House 414-395-4900 550 N. Harbor, Milwaukee bartolottas.com/weddings bartolottascatering.com (See pg 54)
Bavarian Bierhaus
700 West Lexington Blvd., Glendale thebavarianbierhaus.com 414-914-1752 (See pg 43)
Beloit Club 2327 South Riverside Dr., Beloit beloitclub.com and beloitweddings.com 608-466-5397 (See pg 82)
Bradley Symphony Center 212 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee resonancefoodco.com 414-226-7813 (See pg 29)
Broadlands Golf Club 18 Augusta Way, North Prairie broadlandsgolfclub.com 262-392-6320 (See pg 32)
The Carriage House at the Club at Lac La Belle 6996 Pennsylvania Ave., Oconomowoc carriagehouseatlaclabelle.com 262-269-9095
(See pg 79)
Chandelier Ballroom 150 Jefferson Ave., Hartford chandelierballroom.com 262-673-4946 (See pg 223)
Charles Allis Art Museum 1801 N Prospect Ave, Milwaukee charlesallis.org (414) 278-8295 (See pg 21)
Chivaree on Park N8345 Park St., Ixonia mychivaree.com 262-354-4848 (See pg 20)
The Cooperage 822 S Water St, Milwaukee cooperagemke.com 414-763-4935 (See pg 20)
Corvina Wine Company 6038 W. Lincoln Ave., West Allis corvinawinecompany.com 414-546-3407 (See pg 14)
The Cove of Lake Geneva 111 Center St., Lake Geneva coveoflakegeneva.com 262-249-9460 (See pg 159)
Creekside Conference Center 1900 W. Creekside Crossing Circle, Oak Creek creeksideconferencecenter.com 414-375-4640 (See pg 48)
The Cupola Barn N88 W35490 Mapleton Rd., Oconomowoc cupolabarn.com 262-617-4038 (See pg 19)
Davians Catering & Events N56 W16300 Silver Spring Dr., Menomonee Falls davians.com 262-781-3333 (See pg 44)
The DeKoven Center 600 Caron Butler Dr., Racine dekovencenter.org 262-633-6401 ext 108 (See pg 33)
Delafield Brewhaus 3832 Hillside Dr., Delafield (Just off I-94 & Hwy 83) delafield-brewhaus.com 262-646-7821 (See pg 42)
Delafield Hotel 415 Genesee St., Delafield delafieldhotel.com 262-333-0209 (See Inside Front Cover)
The Factory on Barclay 1120 South Barclay St., Milwaukee thefactoryonbarclay.com 414-481-3337
(See pg 27)
The Farm at Dover 26060 Washington Avenue, Dover thefarmatdover.com 773-802-6351 (See pg 9)
fête 500 E. Sumit Ave., Wales feteofwales.com 262-528-3383 (See pg 23)
The Fitzgerald 1119 N. Marshall St., Milwaukee thefitzgeraldmke.com 414-242-8143 (See pg 71)
Foundry 45 9480 US-45, Kewaskum foundry-45.com 262-808-6844 or 262-808-6020 (See pg 81)
The Gage 1139 S. 70th Street, West Allis thegagemke.com 414-367-7004 (See pg 56)
The George & Madcap Lounge Walker’s Point, Milwaukee thegeorgemilwaukee.com and sazs.com 414-256-8765 (See pg 49, 88-89)
Golden Mast Inn on Okauchee Lake W349 N5253 Lacys Lane, Okauchee goldenmastinn.com 262-567-7047 (See pg 75)
Hawk’s View Golf Club 7377 Krueger Rd., Lake Geneva hawksviewgolfclub.com 262-348-9900 (See pg 165)
The Hay Loft W2765 East Gate Dr., Watertown hayloftbarn.com 414-333-8511 (See pg 21)
Hilton Milwaukee City Center 509 W. Wisc Ave., Milwaukee marcusweddings.com 414-390-3802 (See pg 83)
Historic Courthouse 1893 916 N. East Ave., Downtown Waukesha courthouse1893.com 262-574-9170 (See pg 73)
Hotel Goodwin 500 Public Ave., Beloit hotelgoodwin.com and beloitweddings.com 608-466-5397 (See pg 82)
Hubbard Park Lodge, Riverclub & Beer Garden 3565 N. Morris Blvd., Milwaukee hubbardparklodge.com / escapetomilwaukee.com 414-332-4207 (See pg 58)
Hyatt Regency 333 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee hyattregencymilwaukee.com 414-276-1234 (See pg 41)
The Ingleside Hotel 2810 Golf Rd., Pewaukee theinglesidehotel.com 262-547-0201
(See pg 13)
The Iron Horse Hotel 500 W. Florida St, Milwaukee theironhorsehotel.com 414-831-4600 (See pg 18)
Ironworks Hotel 500 Pleasant St., Beloit ironworkshotelbeloit.com and beloitweddings.com 608-466-5397 (See pg 82)
Jan Serr Studio 2155 N. Prospect Avenue, Milwaukee janserrevents@sazs.com • sazs.com 414-256-8765 (See pg 88-89)
Lake Geneva Cruise Lines-Gage Marine cruiselakegeneva.com 262-248-6206 (See pg 156)
Lake Lawn Resort 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan lakelawnresort.com 262-725-9218 (See pg 163)
The Loft on Broadway 177 N. Broadwaym Milwaukee theloftonbroadway.com 414-481-3337 (See pg 27)
Maison LaBelle 731 N. Lake Rd., Oconomowoc maisonlabelle.com 262-236-7292 (See pg 42)
Marcus Center for the Performing Arts sazs.com 414-276-2030
(See pg 88-89)
Meyers Restaurant and Bar 4260 South 76th St., Greenfield meyers.restaurant/banquets 414-321-4400 ext 1 (See pg 93)
Milford Hills W5670 French Rd, Johnson Creek milfordhills.com 920-699-2249
(See pg 15)
Milwaukee Art Museum 700 North Art Museum Dr., Milwaukee mam.org/wedding 414-224-3287 (event line) (See pg 53)
Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee milwaukeezoo.org 414-256-5432
(See pg 39)
Oconomowoc Community Center 220 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Oconomowoc oconomowoc-wi.gov/communitycenter 262-569-2199 (See pg 81)
The Pfister Hotel
424 E Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee marcusweddings.com 414-390-3802 (See pg 84)
Pier 290
1 Liechty Dr., Williams Bay pier290.com/event-space/ 262-245-2100
(See pg 156)
Pizza Man - Milwaukee 2597 North Downer Ave., Milwaukee pizzamanwi.com 414-988-1554 (See pg 66)
Pizza Man - Wauwatosa 11500 West Burleigh St., Wauwatosa pizzamanwi.com 414-988-1554 (See pg 66)
The Polish Center of Wisconsin 6941 S 68th St, Franklin polishcenterofwisconsin.org 414-529-2140 (See pg 50)
Sonesta Milwaukee West 10499 W. Innovation Drive, Wauwatosa sonesta.com/us/wisconsin/wauwatosa/sonestamilwaukee-west-wauwatosa 414-475-9500
(See pg 22)
South Second 838 S. 2nd St., Walker’s Point, Milwaukee southsecondmke.com and sazs.com 414-256-8765 (See pg 88-89)
Story Hill Firehouse 407 N. Hawley Rd., Milwaukee storyhillfirehouse.com 414-477-5813
(See pg 76)
Terrace 167 3210 Hwy 167, Richfield terrace167.com 262-623-6588 (See pg 223)
Timmer’s Resort 5151 Timmer Bay Rd., West Bend fstreethospitality.com 414-988-1554 (See pg 86)
The Treasury 303 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan thetreasurydelavan.com 312-720-5185 (See pg 160)
Tripoli Shrine Center 3000 W Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee tripolishrinecenter.com 414-933-4700
Turner Hall Ballroom 1040 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave., Milwaukee turnerhallballroomweddings.com 414-286-6164
(See pg 10)
(See pg 71)
Red Circle Inn N44 W33013 Watertown Plank Rd. Hwys 16 & C, Nashotah redcircleinn.com 262-367-4883
(See pg 18)
Renaissance Milwaukee West 2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa renmilwaukee.com 414-771-2300 (See pg 57)
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel 139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee saintkatesarts.com/weddings 414-276-8686
(See pg 30)
Schauer Arts & Activites Center 147 N Rural St., Hartford schauercenter.org 262-670-0560 ext 215 (See pg 222)
Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield Hotel 375 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield marriott.com/mkesi 262-364-1100 (See pg 35)
Tuscan Hall Venue & Catering 409 Delafield St., Waukesha tuscanhallwi.com 262-292-1322
Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum 2220 N. Terrace Ave., Milwaukee cavtmuseums.org 414-271-3656
War Memorial Center 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., Milwaukee warmemorialcenter.org 414-273-5533
Watertown Country Club 1340 N Water St., Watertown watertowncc.com 920-261-5009
(See pg 49)
(See pg 21)
(See pg 47)
(See pg 50)
~ 3 separate banquet facilities ~ Guest lists from 20 to 200 ~ Spectacular photographic grounds ~ Affordable rates ~ No catering requirements ~ Beautiful views of the Fox River
For more information: call 262-522-2953 or email prf@waukesha-wi.gov Visit waukesha-wi.gov/rentals
Weddings by Whirly Ball
185 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield whirlyball.com/weddings 262-796-7777 (See pg 74)
West Bend Country Club 5858 Hwy Z, West Bend westbendcc.com 262-334-9541 (See pg 80)
Western Lakes Golf Club W287 N1963 Oakton Rd., Pewaukee sazs.com 262-691-9796 (See pg 88-89)
Bar Stars Bartending barstarsbartending-mke.com 414-208-9500
Bartenders on the Go Serving SE-WI bartendonthego.com 414-899-6151 (See pg 96)
La Piccola Corvina Serving SE-WI corvinawinecompany.com 414-546-3407 (See pg 14)
(Also See Makeup)
halo
1221 E. Brady St., Milwaukee halosalonmke.com 414-272-4256 (See pg 215)
Illume Cosmetic Surgery & MedSpa 2826 W. Rawson Ave., Franklin 6002 North Port Washington Rd., Milwaukee N4W22370 Bluemound Rd., Waukesha illumemke.com 414-439-3000 (See pg 1 & 213)
Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios
Brookfield Square (exterior entrance)262-782-4406 mnsalonbrookfield.com 5300 S. 108th St., Hales Corners414-421-3788 mnhalescorners.com (See pg 217)
Neroli Salon & Spa
327 E St Paul Ave., Milwaukee 3885 N Brookfield Rd., Brookfield 200 W Silver Spring Dr., Glendale 1919 E Kenilworth Pl., Milwaukee 10902 N Port Washington Rd., Mequon, WI nerolisalonspa.com 414-227-2888
Skin Day Spa by Yoly 8405 West Forest Home Ave., Greenfield 414-241-3867 (See pg 212)
SknBar Rx
4005 N Downer Ave., Shorewood 145 W Wisconsin Ave., Pewaukee sknbarrx.com 414-488-7900 (See pg 214)
Wide Eyed Bride Serving SE-Wisconsin wideeyedbride.com 414-377-0540 (See pg 212)
Complete listing and information (See pg 244)
Greige Pâtisserie
408 West Florida St., Milwaukee greigemke.com 414-252-0143 (See pg 177)
Happy Dough Lucky
6300 West Mequon Rd., Unit 7, Mequon happydoughlucky.com 262-236-9907 (See pg 92 & Back Cover)
Poppy Cakes Patisserie
526 South Wells St., Lake Geneva poppycakeslg.com 262-729-4023 (See pg 161)
Simma’s 817 N. 68th St., Wauwatosa simmasbakery.com 414-257-0998 (See pg 179)
Sweet Perfections Bake Shoppe 1501 Paramount Dr., Waukesha sweetperfections.com 262-446-2253 (See pg 180)
Antigua Catering
6207 W. National Ave., West Allis weddingsbyantigua.com 414-321-5775
(See pg 94)
Saz’s Catering
201 W. Walker St., Milwaukee sazs.com 414-256-8765
(See pg 88-89)
Chef Jack’s
215 South St., Waukesha chefjacks.com 262-549-5558 (See pg 95)
Davians Catering & Conference Center N56 W16300 Silver Spring Dr., Menomonee Falls davians.com 262-781-3333 (See pg 44)
First Choice Catering 4260 South 76th St., Greenfield firstchoicecater.com 414-349-6248 (See pg 93)
Noble Catering 1134 N. 9th Street, Milwaukee, WI noblecateringco.com 414-988-1554
LUSH Ice
(See Back Cover)
Serving SE-WI luxurylushice.com 920-287-1504 (See pg 182)
Papa Luigi’s 3475 E Layton Ave., Cudahy papluigiscudahy.com 414-349-6248 (See pg 93)
Pizza Man Catering
Serving SE-WI pizzamanwi.com events@fstreetgroup.com (See pg 66)
Pizza Shuttle 1827 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee pizzashuttle.com 414-289-9993 (See pg 92)
Sazama’s Fine Catering
201 W. Walker St., Milwaukee sazamas.com 414-276-2030
(See pg 88-89)
Tuscan Hall Venue & Catering 409 Delafield St., Waukesha tuscanhallwi.com 262-292-1322 (See pg 49)
(See Makeup)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Brookfield 15760 W Capitol Dr. fredastaire.com/wisconsin 262-796-1121
(See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Greenfield 4868 S 74th St. fredastaire.com/wisconsin 414-281-9191
(See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Madison West 2727 W. Beltline Highway, Madison fredastaire.com/Madison-west 608-467-3333
(See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Menomonee Falls N87W17317 Main St. fredastaire.com/wisconsin (262) 251-2000
(See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Mequon 10934 N Port Washington Rd. fredastaire.com/wisconsin 262-241-1221 (See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Milwaukee 323 N Milwaukee St fredastaire.com/wisconsin 414-291-9999 (See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of New Berlin 15437 West National Avenue, New Berlin fredastaire.com/newberlin-wi 262-330-8685 (See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Oak Creek 2121 E Rawson Ave, Oak Creek fredastaire.com/wisconsin 414-304-8999 (See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Pewaukee 615 Ryan St, Suite 200 fredastaire.com/wisconsin 262-691-8181 (See pg 135)
Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Pleasant Prairie 9000 76th St., Unit B fredastaire.com/wisconsin 262-577-5859 (See pg 135)
(Also see Rentals)
Ambrosia Events 5110 W. Lincoln Ave., Milwaukee ambrosiaeventsmke.com 414-837-4925 (office) 414-546-2854 (mobile) (See pg 103)
Mandel Graphic Solutions 727 W Glendale Ave, Milwaukee mandelcompany.com 414-271-6970 (See pg 115)
(See Travel Agencies)
Landmark Resort 7643 Hillside Rd., Egg Harbor thelandmarkresort.com 920-868-3205
(See pg 243)
The Lodge at Leathem Smith 1640 Memorial Dr., Sturgeon Bay thelodgeatls.com 920-743-5555 (See pg 241)
Newport Resort at Main St. 7888 Church St., Egg Harbor newportresort.com 920-868-9900 or 800-468-6160 (See pg 241)
Stone Harbor, A Door County Resort & Conference Center
107 N. 1st Ave., Sturgeon Bay stoneharbor-resort.com 920-746-0700
(See pg 242)
The Specialist in Bridal Gowns Free Pickup & Delivery mymartinizing.com 262-521-9710
(See pg 216) Hartland 418 Merton Ave. 262-367-4508 Mequon 11106 N Port Washington Rd 262-241-3535
Milwaukee 233 W. Layton Ave. 414-747-1077 Oconomowoc 1300 Brown St. 262-560-9981 1320 Pabst Farm Circle 262-560-0666 Waukesha W229 N2494 Cty Rd F 262-521-9710 Wauwatosa 6737 Milwaukee Ave. 414-771-3331 Whitefish Bay 285 E Hampton Ave 414-964-4747
Art Below Zero artbelowzero.com 414-779-7000
Brad Geers – Live Wedding Painter
Serving SE-WI brad.geers@yahoo.com
(See pg 183)
(See pg 183)
LUSH Ice Serving SE-WI luxurylushice.com 920-287-1504 (See pg 182)
Milwaukee Pedal Tavern pedaltavern.com 414-250-8768 (See pg 182)
Vino Third Ward 219 E. Erie St., Milwaukee vinothirdward.com 414-277-8466 (See pg 183)
Voluptuous Secrets 1740 N. Martin Luther King Dr., Milwaukee voluptuoussecrets.com 414-264-7776 (See pg 182)
Bead IT LLC beadit-wi.com 262-366-5573 (See pg 110)
LUSH Ice Serving SE-WI luxurylushice.com 920-287-1504 (See pg 182)
Mayhouse Collection W359 N5002 Brown Street, Oconomowoc mayhousecollection.com 262-354-8100 (See pg 148)
Wolverine Fireworks Serving Wisconsin wolverinefireworks.com 262-968-4178 (See pg 40)
(and Rental Items)
Bank of Flowers
N88 W16723 Appleton Ave Menomonee Falls 262-253-9111 346 Oakton Ave Pewaukee 262-695-9911 bankofflowers.com (See pg 149)
Belle Fiori
2014 N. Farwell Ave., Milwaukee bellefioriflorist.com 414-272-2234 (See pg 151)
Magnolia Floral Market at Mayhouse Collection
W359 N5002 Brown Street, Oconomowoc magnoliafloralshoppe.net 262-468-4255 (See pg 148)
DuBois
1700 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield262-754-9296 822 N. 8th St., Sheboygan 920-458-1412 duboisformalwear.com (See pg 221)
(See full listing of bridal salons online at premierbrideMKE.com/bridal-salons)
(See Beauty)
(See Travel Agencies & Door County Weddings)
(Also see Banquets & Venues)
Homewood Suites Oak Creek Milwaukee
1900 W. Creekside Crossing Circle, Oak Creek creeksideconferencecenter.com 414-915-6660 (See pg 48)
Sybaris Pool Suites 10240 N. Cedarburg Rd., Mequon sybaris.com 888-805-7665 (See pg 235)
Art Below Zero Call or visit our website for info artbelowzero.com 414-779-7000 (See pg 183)
Hours by appointment paperwhites-invitations.com 262-370-0465
(See pg 171)
Bead IT LLC beadit-wi.com 262-366-5573 (See pg 110)
(See Transportation)
Voluptuous Secrets
1740 N. Martin Luther King Dr., Milwaukee voluptuoussecrets.com 414-264-7776 (See pg 182)
Brad Geers – Live Wedding Painter Serving SE-WI brad.geers@yahoo.com (See pg 183)
(Also See Beauty)
262-781-4848
Neroli Salon & Spa
327 E St Paul Ave., Milwaukee 3885 N Brookfield Rd., Brookfield 200 W Silver Spring Dr., Glendale 1919 E Kenilworth Pl., Milwaukee 10902 N Port Washington Rd., Mequon, WI nerolisalonspa.com 414-227-2888
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
705 Larry Ct., Waukesha acaentertainment.com 262-790-0060 (See pg 200)
Big Sand Productions
Serving SE-WI bigsandproductions.com 952-486-3196 (See pg 205)
Brad Geers – Live Wedding Painter
Serving SE-WI brad.geers@yahoo.com (See pg 183)
Complete Weddings & Events of Milwaukee completemilwaukee.com 414-751-6886 (See pg 206)
Independent Beauty Consultants
262-336-7920 CELL marykay.com/tehrett
Brookfield Square (exterior entrance)262-782-4406 mnsalonbrookfield.com 5300 S. 108th St., Hales Corners414-421-3788 mnhalescorners.com (See pg 217)
MASSAGE
MEDSPA & SPA
2826 W. Rawson Ave., Franklin 6002 North Port Washington Rd., Milwaukee N4W22370 Bluemound Rd., Waukesha illumecosmeticsurgery.com 414-439-3000 (See pg 1 & 213)
SknBar Rx
4005 N Downer Ave., Shorewood 145 W Wisconsin Ave., Pewaukee sknbarrx.com 414-488-7900 (See pg 214)
DJ Express djexpressfun.com 262-306-1138 (See pg 223)
DJ Felix Entertainment djfelixentertainment.com 262-749-4367
(See pg 164 & 207)
Eventspark Productions LLC Serving SE-WI eventsparkprod.com 414-793-4779 (See pg 203)
Ring Tunes ringtunesdj.com 414-807-2648 (See pg 201)
The Wedding Djay
Serving Milwaukee and Most of Wisconsin theweddingdjay.com 800-901-1007
(See pg 207)
Wolverine Fireworks Serving Wisconsin wolverinefireworks.com 262-968-4178 (See pg 40)
MUSIC, SPECIALTY/LIVE
PremierBrideMKE.com PREMIER BRIDE • 261
Premier Bride premierbridemke.com 414-416-8368
Allysha Noelle Photography Serving SE-WI allyshanoellephotography.com 262-337-0352
Complete Weddings & Events of Milwaukee completemilwaukee.com 414-751-6886 (See pg 140)
SB Photography and Design 2727 N Grandview Blvd., Suite 101, Waukesha sbphotoanddesign.com 414-220-0022 (See pg 140)
Smoke Photography Serving SE-WI smokephotographywi.com 414-617-3625 (See pg 143)
Wild Elegance Serving SE-WI wildelegancewi.com 262-309-2240 (See pg 139)
SB Photography and Design
2727 N Grandview Blvd., Suite 101, Waukesha sbphotoanddesign.com 414-220-0022 (See pg 140)
Complete Weddings & Events of Milwaukee completemilwaukee.com 414-751-6886 (See pg 206)
The Photo Booth Serving Milwaukee and Most of Wisconsin 920photo.com 800-901-1007 (See pg 209)
414-671-1512 (See pg 141)
Ideal Impressions idealimpressions.com 262-729-3192 (See pg 158)
JC Designs LLC jcdesignswi.com 414-507-2192
Ring Tunes ringtunesdj.com 414-807-2648 (See pg 201)
Ambrosia Events 5110 W. Lincoln Ave., Milwaukee ambrosiaeventsmke.com 414-837-4925 (office) 414-546-2854 (mobile) (See pg 103)
Event Daydreaming
Serving SE-WI eventdaydreaming.com 847-347-5197
Rosewood Serving SE-Wisconsin rosewoodwed.com 262-496-9832 (See pg 105)
Timeless Events Serving SE-WI timelesseventsllc.com 262-751-6355
Mayhouse Collection
W359 N5002 Brown Street, Oconomowoc mayhousecollection.com 262-354-8100 (See pg 148)
The Confetti Lounge 17700 W Capitol Dr., Brookfield theconfettilounge.com 414-552-3880
Eldr+Rime
2300 North Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa renmilwaukee.com 414-867-9158 (See pg 57)
Hubbard Park Beer Garden
3565 North Morris Blvd., Shorewood hubbardparkbeergarden.com 414-332-4207 (See pg 58)
Maggiano’s
2500 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa maggianos.com/banquets 414-978-1000 (See pg 64)
Mason Street Grill 425 E. Mason St, Milwaukee (located at the Hilton) masonstreetgrill.com 414-298-3131
Meyers Restaurant and Bar 4260 South 76th St., Greenfield meyers.restaurant/banquets 414-349-6248 (See pg 93)
Milwaukee Chop House
633 North 5th St, Milwaukee chophouse411.com 414-226-2467
Pizza Man - Milwaukee 2597 North Downer Ave., Milwaukee pizzamanwi.com 414-988-1554 (See pg 66)
Pizza Man - Wauwatosa 11500 West Burleigh St., Wauwatosa pizzamanwi.com 414-988-1554 (See pg 66)
Punch Bowl Social 1122 Vel R Phillips Avenue, Milwaukee punchbowlsocial.com 414-204-7544 (See pg 63)
Riverwalk Boat Tours & Rentals at Pere Marquette Park (on Old World Third St, between State and Kilbourn) riverwalkboats.com 414-283-9999
(See pg 229)
Rodizio Grill - Milwaukee 777 N. Water St., Milwaukee rodizio.com 407-319-0533
Saz’s State House Restaurant 5539 W. State St., Milwaukee sazs.com 414-453-2410
All Star Rentals
S167 W16262 Loomis Dr, Muskego allstarrentals.net 414-427-9951
(See pg 65)
(See pg 110)
Ambrosia Events 5110 W. Lincoln Ave., Milwaukee ambrosiaeventsmke.com 414-837-4925 (office) 414-546-2854 (mobile) (See pg 103)
Archangel Services LLC Serving SE-WI archangel-service.com 414-219-0700
Area Rental & Sales Co. Corporate Office 262-827-1444 17000 W. Cleveland Avenue, New Berlin Delafield Location 262-646-4444 3430 Hillside Road, Delafield 262-827-1444
Arnold’s Environmental Services Inc. 3031 Hwy 33, Saukville arnoldsenvironmental.com 262-675-2497
Brookfield Party Rental 12630 Robin Ln. Suite 200, Brookfield madfoxparty.com 262-786-2666
Celebrations Tent & Party Rentals
Div. of Equipment Rentals Inc. 2001 Decorah Rd., West Bend 630 Grand Ave., Hartford eqrents.com 1-877-362-TENT
Gertrude & Evelyn Vintage Rentals
Serving SE-WI gertrudeandevelynvintage.com 262-716-6676
(See pg 108)
(See pg 113)
(See pg 112)
(See pg 223)
La Piccola Corvina
Serving SE-WI corvinawinecompany.com/private-events 414-546-3407 (See pg 14)
Well Dressed Tables by Arena Americas 10861 S. Howell Ave., Oak Creek welldressedtables.com 414-831-7000 (See pg 109)
CTS Travel Specializing in Destination Weddings & Honeymoons ctstravelpros.com 414-276-3388 (See pg 232)
LovinAway Luxury Romance Travel lovinaway.com 844-568-2929 (See pg 230)
Complete Weddings & Events of Milwaukee completemilwaukee.com 414-751-6886
(See pg 140)
(See Rentals)
SIGNAGE
Mandel Graphic Solutions 727 W Glendale Ave, Milwaukee mandelcompany.com 414-271-6970
(See pg 115)
414-671-1512 (See pg 141)
Ideal Impressions idealimpressions.com 262-729-3192 (See pg 158)
JC Designs LLC jcdesignswi.com 414-507-2192
Wild Elegance
Serving SE-WI wildelegancewi.com 262-309-2240
(See pg 139)
Now that you’ve said “yes!” it’s time to get organized! Use our checklist as a guideline to help you through the wedding planning process.
TWELVE MONTHS
z Choose the date & time
z Plan the budget
z Reserve ceremony site
z Start your guest list
z Hire a wedding consultant
z Meet with officiant to discuss premarital counseling
z Visit reception sites & reserve one
z Choose your attendants
z Shop for gown and arrange alterations
z Order wedding dress, veil & accessories
z Take engagement pictures
z Select dress for bridal attendants
z Decide wedding styleformal, casual, etc.
z Interview & book photographer, videographer, caterer, & florist
z Discuss honeymoon plans (get passport if needed)
z Choose reception music
z Send Save-the-Date cards
SIX MONTHS
z Reserve rental equipment
z Choose your baker & order your wedding cake & groom’s cake
z Finalize guest list
z Register for gifts
z Order invitations, stationery, & thank you cards
z Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests
z Finalize honeymoon plans
z Choose favors
z Choose ceremony music
z Order men’s formal wear
z Reserve rehearsal dinner location
z Book stylist or salon for bridal party hair, nails, & makeup
z Discuss menu with caterer
z Order wedding bands
z Meet with premarital counselor
z Purchase mothers’ dresses
z Address & mail invitations
z Plan hair & makeup trial
z Confirm ceremony details
z Arrange rehearsal dinner plans
z Complete proper documents for changing your name
z Confirm delivery date of gown
z Announce engagement in your local newspaper
z Obtain marriage license
z Arrange final gown fittings
z Buy gifts for the wedding party
z Make reservations for bridesmaids’ luncheon
z Purchase wedding accessories (guest book, unity candle, cake knife)
z Start reception seating chart & place cards
z Confirm rehearsal dinner plans
z Contact guests who didn’t RSVP
z Break in wedding shoes
z Write rehearsal dinner & wedding toasts
z Meet with photographer & videographer & submit a list of must-take shots
z Confirm honeymoon plans
ONE WEEK
z Pick up your gown
z Pack for honeymoon
z Confirm transportation details
z Give caterer final head count
z Review timetables & details with vendors
z Put fees in wedding day envelopes
z Deliver gift baskets to hotels
z Host bridesmaids’ luncheon
z Have manicure and pedicure
z Attend ceremony rehearsal
z Hold rehearsal dinner & hand-out special gifts to wedding party
z Prepare tip envelopes & arrange for someone to distribute them
z Eat breakfast
z Arrange to get checked in & have luggage delivered to your hotel
z Get hair & makeup done
z Relax! You’re getting married!!!
A checklist of things every bride should have on hand for her wedding day. Be prepared! Check off items as you assemble your kit.
z Airline tickets (note flight number & departure/ arrival time)
z Cruise tickets (note cabin number & departure/ arrival time)
z Resort/Hotel phone & confirmation number z Passports/Visas
z Camera, SD cards & charger z Credit cards
z Traveler’s checks z Sewing kit z Medicines/Prescriptions
z Extra contact lenses or glasses z Toiletries
z Electrical plug adapters z Hair dryer
z Auto Registration z Bank & Credit Card Accounts
z Car Insurance Policy z Credit Reporting Agencies z Deeds/Titles z Driver’s License z Employee Records z Investment Accounts z Life Insurance Policy z Medical/Dental Records z Memberships z Passport
z Post Office Records z Social Security Records z Stock Certificates
z Tax Agency Records z Voter Registration Records z Wills/Trusts
z Phone numbers for wedding party, wedding coordinator & vendors
z Sewing kit (thread, needle, safety pins & scissors)
z Personal emergency kit (including Shout wipes, tampons, & a small snack)
z Skin care (cleansers, moisturizers & lotion)
z Hair care (hair dryer, curling iron, curlers, brush, comb, hair spray, hair gel, bobby pins, hair elastics, barrettes)
z Nail polish, nail file & polish remover (in shade worn & clear to stop runs in nylons)
z Makeup & makeup remover
z Double stick tape
z Extra pair of nylons
z Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss & mouthwash
z Steamer or iron
z Hand mirror, tweezers & small grooming scissors
z Tissues & disposable wipes
z Anti-cling spray
z Deodorant, perfume & baby powder
z Cotton balls, cotton swabs
z Headband or clips for pulling hair back while applying makeup
z Small hand towel
z Lint brush
z Breath mints
z Cash
z Checks
z Something old, new, borrowed & blue
for her:
z Gown z Headpiece & veil
z Lingerie (bra, bustier, slip) z Hosiery & garter z Shoes z Jewelry & accessories z Wrap/jacket z Gloves for him: z Coat, shirt, vest, trousers z Cummerbund z Neckwear z Cufflinks z Socks & shoes
z Rings & marriage license
z Ring bearer pillow
z Flower girl basket z Wedding programs z Cake knife & server z Toasting flutes z Favors
z Guest book & pen z Unity candle, kiddush cup z Pay officiant & vendors z Assign person to collect gifts
SPRING
Cherry Blossom Daffodil Dogwood Forsythia Hellebore Hyacinth Lilac Lily of the Valley Muscari Peony Quince Rose Sweet Pea Tulip Viburnum
SUMMER
Anemone Astilbe Azalea Calla Lily Camellia Cosmos Daffodil Dahlia Daisy Delphinium French Tulip Hollyhock Hyacinth Hydrangea Jasmine Lady's Mantle Larkspur Lilac Lily of the Valley Marigold Mimosa Pansy Peony Primrose Ranunculus
FALL Autumn Leaves Celosia (cockscomb)
BOUTONNIERE
CORSAGE
CASCADE
HAND TIED
Chinese Lantern Chrysanthemum Crosnia Dahlia Hydrangea Seasonal Berries Statice Sunflower Yarrow
WINTER Amaryllis Anemone Casablanca Lily Evergreen Forced Bulbs Freesia Gerber Daisy Heather Narcissus Holly (ilex) Paper-white Poinsettia Rose Stephanot
YEAR ‘ROUND
Baby’s Breath Calla Lily Carnation Cattleman Chrysanthemum Daisy Freesia Gardenia Gerber Daisy Gladiolus Iris Lily Orchid Protea Ranunculus Rose September Aster Snapdragon Stephanotis Tuberoses
HELPERS
Cake Cutting Attendant
Guest Book Attendant Officiant
Soloists & Musicians
WEDDING PARTY
Bride’s Bouquet
Bride’s Toss Bouquet
Bride’s Attendants’ Bouquets
Flower Girl’s Headpiece / Basket
Groom’s Boutonnière Groom’s Attendants’ Boutonnière Ushers’ Boutonnière
Ring Bearer’s Boutonnière
Mothers’ & Grandmothers’ Corsages
Fathers’ & Grandfathers’ Boutonnières
Blossoms & greenery in teardrop shape
Willingness and ability should always be taken into account when negotiating who pays for each expense. Use these traditional guidelines for some basic guidance, but don’t be afraid to break the “rules!” Everyone should be comfortable with their share and nothing is ever set in stone.
BRIDE
z Groom’s Wedding Ring z Wedding Gift for Groom z Gifts for Bridesmaids z Gift for Parents z Gowns for Bridesmaids (optional) z Accommodations for Out-ofTown Attendants (optional) z Informal Stationery
BRIDE’S FAMILY
z Engagement Party z Bride’s Wedding Attire z Bride’s Parents’ Wedding Attire z Wedding Gift for Newlyweds z Invitations, Announcements, Thank You Notes, Postage z Engagement & Wedding Photographs z Wedding Ceremony Programs z Wedding Reception z Flowers for Ceremony & Reception z Bridal Party Bouquets & Flowers for Flower Girl z Transportation for Wedding Party to Ceremony & Reception z Videographer z Musicians/Vocalists z Security & Insurance for Gifts z Welcome Party for Out-of-Town Guests
z Bride’s Engagement & Wedding Ring
z Bride’s Bouquet z Mothers' Corsages z Wedding Gift for Bride z Gifts for Groomsmen & Ushers z Gift for Parents (optional) z Formal wear for Groomsmen (optional) z Accommodations for Out-ofTown Attendants (optional) z Marriage License z Honeymoon z Fee for Officiant
GROOM’S FAMILY
z Engagement Party (optional; following party by bride’s parents)
z Groom’s Wedding Attire
z Groom’s Parents’ Wedding Attire z Wedding Gift for Newlyweds z Rehearsal Dinner
z Shipment of Wedding Gifts to Couple’s Home z Welcome Party for Out-of-Town Guests (optional)
z Bridal Shower for Bride z Bachelor(ette) Party z Accommodations for Self z Wedding Attire & Shoes
Ceremony
Favors & Accessories
Flowers Gifts
Music Photography Reception Rings
Stationery
Transportation Videography Wedding Attire
