Planning for your Special Day at the Southern NJ Shore
Fall 2024/ Winter 2025
Presented by
Photo by Shaun Reilly Photography
Find Your Beautiful
FOR YOUR BIG DAY AT FOR YOUR BIG DAY AT
Everyone deserves to feel their most beautiful and self-confident on their wedding day and we look forward to helping you achieve your goals!
Our Bridal Membership provides patients with access to special pricing on treatments as well as exclusive perks. We offer a wide array of beautyenhancing services, including dermal fillers, neuromodulators, medical-grade skincare, and many other state-of-the-art options for correcting aesthetic imperfections and achieving a stunning complexion.
Give yourself one less thing to worry about on your big day. Book your complimentary consultation today to start your wedding preparation!
Weddings at Steel Pier
Love on the Pier
Make a splash with your wedding events at Steel Pier!
Celebrate your love in style with breathtaking ocean views, endless charm, and a unique setting from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Steel Pier is the perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony, wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, or welcome reception.
Why Choose Steel Pier?
Stunning oceanfront views
Unique and versatile event spaces
Delicious catering options to suit any taste
Fun and memorable experiences for your guests
Create memories that will last a lifetime in a setting as unforgettable as your special day!
Book your tour today and discover why Steel Pier is the ultimate wedding destination!
Contact Sharon: 609-513-1690 or sharon@steelpier.com
2024 wedding trends: Modern romance meets tradition
By Sarah Fertsch
Everyone wants their big day to stand out. This year, couples are shaking things up with a mix of modern touches and classic traditions. From sustainable choices to bold fashion statements, here’s a look at the top wedding trends of 2024 that are making “I do” more fun than ever.
Sustainability takes center stage
Environmental consciousness is more than a buzzword for 2024 couples. Eco-friendly weddings are on the rise, with couples seeking ways
to reduce the environmental impact of their big day. From locally sourced flowers to upcycled wedding attire, sustainability is woven into every aspect. In fact, throwing rice is considered bad for wildlife, so expect to blow bubbles or light sparklers!
Micro weddings remain popular
Although large weddings have made a comeback postpandemic, micro weddings (50 guests or fewer) are still popular in 2024. Couples are choosing intimate ceremonies, focusing on quality over quantity. With smaller guest
lists, couples can create more personalized experi - Continued on 6
Trends - continued from 4 ences, invest in luxurious details and spend more time with their guests. This shift allows for more meaningful connections and less stress.
Bold and unique bridal fashion
While classic white gowns are still popular, more brides are stepping outside traditional expectations. Gowns with dramatic sleeves, sleek silhouettes and minimalistic designs are trending. Jumpsuits and two-piece outfits are also becoming mainstream for the modern bride.
Inclusive wedding experiences
Inclusivity is at the heart of wedding planning in 2024. Couples are making efforts to ensure their celebrations are
welcoming and reflective of all their guests. This includes offering diverse food options for dietary needs, providing gender-neutral facilities and incorporating inclusive language in ceremonies and signage. LGBTQ+ weddings are also inspiring a fresh take on traditions, with new approaches to attire, processions and roles within the ceremony.
Unique venues and destination weddings
From industrial warehouses and museums to b otanical gardens and rooftop terraces, the venue choice has become a focal point of personalization. For those opting for destination weddings, exotic locales are still popular, but there’s also a rising interest in domestic destinations that are easily
accessible, offering both intimacy and adventure.
Tech-infused weddings
Technology is seamlessly integrated into weddings now, enhancing both the planning process and the event itself. Live streaming ceremonies for distant guests, creating wedding websites for RSVP management and using drones for photography are just a few examples of how tech is elevating the modern wedding experience. Couples are also using AI-powered planning tools to streamline their wedding logistics, ensuring every detail is accounted for with minimal stress.
Personalized entertainment
2024 weddings are about entertainment that tells a story. Couples are ditching traditional wedding bands and DJs in favor of curated experiences that reflect their tastes and personalities. From live performers and cultural dances to personalized playlists, entertainment is becoming more immersive. Interactive photo booths, custom cocktail stations and even silent discos are ensuring guests are engaged and entertained throughout the night.
Food and drink with a twist
Couples are moving away from the standard threecourse meal in favor of creative culinary experiences. Food trucks, grazing tables and interactive food stations allow guests to sample a variety of cuisines in a relaxed atmosphere. Specialty cocktails, local wines and unique dessert bars (think doughnuts, pies or gourmet s’mores) are replacing the traditional cake cutting. Personalized menus also offer a glimpse into the couple’s favorite foods and drinks.
Experiential favors
Gone are the days of disposable wedding favors. In 2024, couples are opting for experiential favors that guests can use and remember. From DIY cocktail kits and personalized playlists to donations made to charities on behalf of guests, wedding favors are becoming more thoughtful and memorable. Whether it’s through a minimalist aesthetic, ecofriendly planning or an inclusive celebration, this year’s weddings are all about making the big day feel authentic, unique and memorable.
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CELEBRATIONS WEDDINGS
| CORPORATE | EVENTS
Cape May Convention Hall is a breathtaking venue on the water with a modern ballroom that has full-length windows, polished wooden flooring, high ceilings and ambient lighting. You can host ceremonies to indoor receptions ravished in stunning views.
The Sunset Pavilion, a fresh venue located at John F. Gaffney Green Tree Golf Course in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Showcasing a spacious pavilion with floor-to-ceiling windows. These windows provide a fantastic view of the lush surroundings, ensuring a delightful experience.
Lakeside Manor at Lake Lenape is a waterfront venue on Lake Lenape in Mays Landing, NJ.
Providing a picturesque beach setting for outdoor ceremonies and indoor receptions. Lake Lenape is 2,000 acres – featuring a historic lighthouse, a range of activities and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts and visitors.
Adding a social media element to your wedding day
Julia Train
n a world where social media has become a cornerstone of business strategy, two ntrepreneurs have added a wedding content creation service to their social media marketing agency.
Aimee Perry, 24, and Ariana Nguyen, 23, launched their business, AA Digital Studios, in April 2022, focusing initially on social media management for various businesses. Their services include content creation and editing, social media management and developing social media strategies tailored to individual brands.
Recently, they recognized a growing demand for immediate, engaging wedding content and decided to offer reels for the big day.
“We saw how wedding content creation was trending
and, fortunately, had a friend reach out to us who knew that we were doing social media management and she was like, ‘Hey, if you want to take a shot on me, you're more than welcome to do my wedding content creation,’” said Perry.
At the same time, Perry and Nguyen had a client reach out to create content during her engagement photo shoot and Perry’s brother was recently engaged and asked them to take videos for his wedding.
“So everything just kind of spiraled into place at one time. And then we were able to grow from there, like post our actual work,” she said.
Unlike traditional photography or videography, Perry and Nguyen use their iPhones to capture real-time moments throughout the wedding day. They both follow the couple around for
the entire day, documenting everything from the gettingready moments to the reception, according to Perry.
“We are so happy to be a part of some of these clients’ storylines, being able to create content for them [and]
bring their visions to life,” she said.
Their services include five to 10, about 15-30-second clips and raw footage, allowing couples to experience their wedding day as it unfolded. With packages ranging from eight to twelve hours of coverage, Perry and Nguyen ensure that they capture every detail, including behind-the-scenes moments often missed by professional photographers.
“We always say that it's best to have a wedding content creator in addition to a professional photographer,” said Perry.
One of the most rewarding aspects of their work, she says, is the relationships they build with their clients.
“It's so nice hearing from the couples that they're so excited to relive their entire
Fine Italian Cuisine
wedding day the next morning,” said Perry.
Their unique service provides couples with a fresh perspective on their big day.
Although Perry and Nguyen have only been offering wedding content creation services for three months, they’ve already built a solid portfolio. They’re also expanding their offerings to include content creation for various special events, such as bridal showers and bachelorette parties.
Their offerings resonate with couples looking for immediate, relatable content they can share on social media, allowing them to relive their special day instantly.
If you’re interested in Perry and Nguyen’s wedding content services, check out their website: aadigitalstudios.com
2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
Bridal Showers, Engagement Parties, Rehearsal Dinners
Admission
Sunday, November 3, 2024 @ 12:00 PM
Wildwoods Convention Center,* Wildwood, NJ
Sunday, December 8, 2024 @ 1:00 PM
Resorts Casino-Hotel,* Atlantic City, NJ
Sunday, January 19, 2025 @ 12:00 PM
Atlantic City Convention Center* Atlantic City, NJ
Sunday, February 23, 2025 @ 1:00 PM
Resorts Casino-Hotel,* Atlantic City, NJ
Harbor Pines Golf Club unveils spectacular new wedding and event space
Nestled amid picturesque greens and tranquil landscapes in Egg Harbor Township, Harbor Pines Golf Club has long been celebrated for its natural beauty, exceptional amenities, and unparalleled hospitality. Now, building upon its storied legacy, the esteemed venue proudly presents to the public its newly renovated wedding and event space, redefining the art of celebration in a setting that seamlessly blends sophistication with versatility.
At the heart of Harbor Pines Golf Club’s enchanting transformation lies the Saint Andrews Ballroom, a pinnacle of sophistication and style that has been meticulously renovated to offer a one-of-a-kind experience for weddings and events.
The ballroom, bathed in soft, natural light that filters through expansive windows, sets a serene and romantic ambiance. Adorned with contemporary accents and customizable lighting options, it serves as a versatile canvas where couples can bring their unique visions to life. From intimate gatherings to grand soirées, the Saint Andrews Ballroom can effortlessly transform to suit every style and preference.
The outdoor terrace, an extension of the ballroom’s allure, offers breathtaking views of manicured lawns
and the tranquil expanse of the gazebo, sitting at the water’s edge, where couples can exchange vows. It’s an ideal setting for ceremonies, cocktail receptions, or al fresco dining under the stars, adding an extra layer of enchantment to any event hosted at Harbor Pines Golf Club.
The Saint Andrews Ballroom stands as a testament to the club’s commitment to creating unforgettable moments. With its timeless allure and adaptability, it promises to be the stage where love stories unfold and memories are cherished for a lifetime.
The newly renovated bridal suite also plays a part in the captivating appeal of the Saint Andrews Ballroom, offering brides a sanctuary of luxury and sophistication. With the perfect natural lighting peeking through the windows, the suite is a haven where every bride’s dream day begins. From plush seating areas to elegant decor, every detail has been curated to ensure a serene and relaxing atmosphere. As brides prepare for their walk down the aisle, the suite becomes a space filled with anticipation and joy, setting the perfect tone for a day of unforgettable moments, and the Harbor Pines special events experts wanted to reflect that. Every element, from the ballroom to the bridal suite, is designed to turn dreams to reality.
Debbie Stevenson, a seasoned wedding planner and the Director of Sales & Marketing at Harbor Pines Golf Club, exudes enthusiasm as she unveils the intricacies of this breathtaking transformation. With over 30 years of event planning and management expertise, Stevenson is a true visionary in the industry, ensuring that every detail of your special day is nothing short of perfection.
“It’s an incredibly exciting time for us,” Stevenson remarks, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. “Our new wedding and event space is a testament to our commitment to providing unforgettable experiences. We’ve created a canvas that allows couples to turn their dreams into reality, where every nuance and personal touch is not just welcomed but celebrated, and that is so special to both me and my team.”
What sets Harbor Pines Golf Club apart is its unwavering dedication to flexibility. Stevenson reflects on nearly
two decades of witnessing the space transform into a myriad of looks, each reflecting the unique personalities and love stories of the couples it hosts. “There are no rules to a bride and groom’s perfect day,” she explains. “Every wedding is a reflection of the couple, and our space is designed to embrace and enhance that uniqueness.”
Samantha Miglorie, the adept and popular Food and Beverage executive leading Harbor Pines’ professional event team, adds her insights into the seamless execution of events at the venue. “Our team is passionate about curating exceptional experiences,” Miglorie states. “From exquisite culinary offerings to impeccable service, we take pride in bringing our clients’ visions to life.”
“We wanted to create a space that could evolve with the trends while remaining timeless,” Stevenson notes. “Our goal is to provide an experience that not only meets but exceeds every expectation.”
A unique present for brides
By Julia Train
Are you a bride looking for a unique present for your groom or do you want a painted portrait to capture this exciting era in your life for yourself?
Julie Bertonazzi has two options for you: painted portraits and boudoir photos.
Twenty-three years ago, Julie Bertonazzi was a stayat-home mother with three little boys, deciding if she wanted to go back to working in sales like she did before having kids.
Bertonazzi decided she didn’t want to return to her previous job when a friend mentioned to her that she should try being a photogra-
pher. Now, she has a studio in Haddon Heights dedicated to empowering women through intimate beauty photography and painted portraits.
Through teaching herself Photoshop and lighting techniques, and the help of other photographers giving her Photoshop and digital photography tips, she learned everything she needed for the art.
Bertonazzi turned her hobbies into a business. She had been taking photos as a hobby at family parties and of people she knew for as long as she could remember and she’d been painting since she was a child.
“If you look back at your hobbies, or what you loved to do when you were 7 or 8
years old… that's what you end up back at,” she said.
acrylics over it. The finished product is called mixed media.
Bertonazzi specializes in boudoir photography and painted portraits of women. She draws inspiration from the Italian artist Pino Daeni, who is known for his depictions of feminine, romantic women.
Before painting a portrait, Bertonazzi will first meet with the client privately and ask them a few questions to get to know them. She asks them who they are, how they want to be portrayed, pose ideas and any other questions that would help her create the perfect piece for her customer.
Bertonazzi then photographs the client, and after she and the client come to a final decision on which portrait they like and she knows what they're looking for, she digitally paints it on a Wacom tablet. During this step, she can change the background and add different elements.
She then prints it on Canvas and paints oils and
Bertonazzi has a vast range of clients, but says her average clientele consists of women around 55 years old, sizes 18 to 23 and often to either celebrate themselves after weight loss or surviving abuse or to remember their body before having a mastectomy
“The thing in common with both the painting and the boudoir is they're looking to fulfill a need… it's making them feel good, and it's doing something inside in a positive way,” said Bertonazzi.
Although her average customers are those who have gone through hardship, Bertonazzi’s portraits and photos can be a unique wedding gift given to the groom from the bride.
Interested in a portrait? Go to julesportrait.com
For those interested in boudoir photos, go to julessecret.com
12 months before:
● Determine budget
● Select venue (put down a deposit)
● Choose the date
● Celebrate at an engagement party
● Make social media announcement
11 months before:
● Select a caterer and meal options
● Hire a band or DJ
● Hire a photographer and take engagement photos
10 months before:
● Shop for a wedding dress
● Create the guest list
● Send out save-the-dates
9 months before:
● Hire a videographer
● Taste and order wedding cake
● Book a rehearsal dinner venue
8 months before:
● Create a wedding registry
● Meet with an officiant
● Shop for wedding party gifts and rehearsal dinner dress
7 months before:
● Book a makeup artist, nail esthetician and hairdresser
● Purchase wedding shoes
● Make dress alterations
● Shop for groom’s tuxedo
6 months before:
● Choose and notify the
bridal party
● Book a honeymoon destination
● Send out formal invitations
5 months before:
● Create seating arrangements
● Start premarital counseling
● Select wedding rings
● Order wedding favors
4 months before:
● Purchase bridesmaids’ dresses
● Purchase groomsmen’s suits
● Design floral arrangements
● Enjoy a bridal shower
3 months before:
● Apply for a marriage license
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Custom beauty solutions to simplify your daily routine
Nano , powder & combo brows
Lip blushing
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Facial Waxing Brow sculpt & lash curl Brow & lash shading Brow shaping Teeth whitening & tooth gems
● Book a flight for the honeymoon
● Consider transportation (for the wedding)
● Start hair and makeup trials
2 months before:
● Have fun at bachelor and bachelorette parties
● Finalize seating arrangements
● Confirm all vendors
● Book necessary hotel rooms
1 month before:
● Write vows
● Enjoy skin, hair, and nail appointments
● Buy ice, champagne, balloons, and decor
1 week before:
● Take dance lessons (if desired)
● Finalize vows
● Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts
● Pack for honeymoon
● Welcome guests from outof-town
1 day before:
● Coordinate bridal party and rehearsal dinner
● Shop for decor and a wedding guest book
● Complete premarital counseling
● Book an after-wedding brunch
2 weeks before:
● Have a final dress fitting
● Take pre-wedding photos
● Prepare bouquets
● Select playlists and songs
● Do some deep breathing
Day of Wedding:
● Give gifts to bridesmaids
● Take photos
● Say “I do!”
Wedding must be booked by March 30, 2024.
Enhance your special day with the following*:
•Complimentary Signature Drink – Butlered at Cocktail Hour
•Two Additional Butlered Hot Hors d'oeuvres
•$500 Off Ceremony Fee (Indoor Only)
•Complimentary Amenity for the bridal party (maximum ten people)
*Wedding must be hosted by 3/30/2025. Applies to new bookings only. Packages start at $99. Promotion applies to all wedding packages: Speakeasy, The Great Gatsby and the Boardwalk Empire Buffet.
Awedding day is filled with symbolic tradition, from varied religious customs to the never-ending circle reflected in the rings and the types of flowers accentuating the celebration. Even with all the traditional rituals to consider, nearly every bride and groom can find ways to give their special day some unique touches that reflect their personality and love.
Music sets the mood for every wedding, and it’s an easy place to put your own spin on the celebration. Whether you forgo the traditional bridal march entirely or simply look for an arrangement that gives an updated twist to the classic version,
Celebrate with a twist!
Credit: Steel Pier
let guests know this isn’t your average wedding by setting the festivities against a soundtrack that lets your true character shine.
The wedding party is intended to be a collection of those nearest and dearest to the bride and groom, who help ensure the day goes off without a hitch and who lead fellow revelers in celebrating the start of the new couple’s life together. That being said,
there’s no reason this group must be limited to women on her side and guys on his, or even that it’s limited to humans – a beloved pooch can make for an adorable ring-bearer, after all.
Photography is an essential element of your big day, but think beyond the images you’ll capture throughout the wedding and reception. Pho-
Continued on 22
This bridal party brought their A- game to Steel Pier with a water gun showdown!
Credit: Steel Pier
tos lend a personal touch, no matter what your color scheme or theme. Integrate photos of the two of you at various stages of life, together as a couple and with loved ones (perhaps even some you’re honoring in memoriam). You can display these at a table with the guest book, as part of the table centerpieces, or even on the gift table. Or take things digital and load all your images into a slide show set to music.
Make favors meaningful. Forgo more common items like bubbles and chocolate, and instead send a little of yourself home with your guests. Maybe it’s a memento from a place with special meaning to you both, or a bottle opener shaped like a bicycle to represent the way you met. Just think about the
moments and things that define you as a couple and do some searching online. You’ll probably be surprised by how quickly the options pile up.
Serve up a menu that shows guests more about your life together. Your loved ones can order basic beef or chicken anywhere. Instead, give them a glimpse into you. Make your main course the same food you enjoyed on your first date or during another monumental moment in your courtship. Or plan the entire menu around a region that you hold close to your heart.
Weddings are filled with traditions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put your own touches on the day for a special event filled with memories that are uniquely your own. Find more advice for life’s special moments at elivingtoday.com.
• Marry at the top of the light, Keeper’s Cottage, or on the 2 Acre Manicured Lawn
165
An award winning venue with a unique blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Getting a N.J. marriage license
If the bride is a resident of New Jersey, the marriage license should be obtained in the municipality where she lives. If groom is a state resident and the bride is not, the marriage license should be obtained in the municipality where he lives.
You can download and complete the marriage license application form from https://nj.gov/health/vital/ registration-vital/marriagelicenses/ or you can fill it out at the local registrar’s office. Make sure you don’t sign the marriage application form before going to the local registrar. You must sign the application while under oath, in the presence of the issuing authority.
Items to bring with you:
● Proof of identity by presenting your driver’s license, passport or state/federal ID
● Proof of your residency
● A witness, 18 years of age or older
● $28 application fee
After you apply, there is a 72-hour waiting period before
● Your Social Security card or Social Security number
the license can be issued. The application is valid for six months from the date it is filed. Once the license is picked up, it is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
Celebrate or say “I Do” at some of Cape May’s most beautiful historic destinations.
The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse and the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate are available to host your occasion.
Looking for local transportation for your wedding party or guests? Book one of Cape May’s iconic red trolleys for your special day.
For venue rentals, contact: CColson@CapeMayMAC.org
For trolley rentals, contact: SGibson@CapeMayMAC.org
Planning the perfect wedding is no easy task, but that’s where Plan It Expo shines! For over 30 years, we’ve been bringing couples and wedding professionals together, creating unforgettable wedding experiences across New Jersey and beyond. As the premier producer of bridal shows in the region, we take pride in connecting engaged couples with the best vendors, venues, and services to ensure their special day is flawless from start to finish. With a solid reputation built on trust, quality, and excellence, Plan It Expo has successfully produced more than 30 shows annually. Our events feature top-tier professionals who cover every aspect of a wedding – from photographers and florists to DJs, caterers, travel planners, and more. Whether couples are in the beginning stages of planning or finalizing the finishing touches, our shows are designed to be inspiring, fun, and informative.
Our upcoming South Jersey bridal expos are set to be some of the most exciting events of the year. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming next:
Wildwood Wedding Expo – November 3
Held at the Wildwoods Convention Center, this expo brings the magic of weddings to the beach.
Brides, grooms, and their families can explore a variety of wedding services and enjoy interactive exhibits, food samplings, live entertainment, and prizes, including our famous Cake Dive! With more than 60 local and regional vendors, this event is your one-stop shop to bring wedding dreams to life.
Resorts Hotel and Casino Wedding Expo – December 8
The energy and elegance of Atlantic City take center stage at our next event at the Resorts Hotel and Casino. This expo will feature vendors specializing in everything from wedding attire to luxury honeymoons. Guests will enjoy exclusive show discounts, door prizes, and the chance to meet with industry professionals in an upscale, vibrant setting. If you’re looking to blend luxury and style, this event is not to be missed!
The 16th Annual AC Wedding and Destination Travel MegaShow – January 19, 2025
Our signature event, the AC Wedding and Destination Travel
MegaShow, returns to the Atlantic City Convention Center with even more excitement. This spectacular event offers everything couples need to plan their dream wedding – and then some! From destination wedding ideas and travel packages to local vendors and honeymoon specialists, this MegaShow has it all. With more than 100 exhibitors, live fashion shows, entertainment, and over $50,000 in prizes, this show is the crown jewel of wedding expos in the region. Brides will also have the chance to participate in our famous Cake Dive to win big prizes like honeymoon getaways and diamond jewelry!
Plan It Expo prides itself on providing unmatched opportunities for couples and vendors alike. Our events are not only a chance for couples to meet with talented wedding professionals but also a valuable platform for local businesses to connect with their ideal clients. Whether you’re a couple looking to simplify the planning process or a wedding professional aiming to grow your business, Plan It Expo offers the perfect space for both.
At Plan It Expo, we believe every wedding should be unique, magical, and stress-free. That’s why we go the extra mile to make sure our shows offer a seamless experience for both couples and vendors. With decades of experience, countless happy clients, and some of the most highly attended shows in the industry, we are proud to be South Jersey’s leading wedding expo producers.
Make sure to mark your calendars and join us for our upcoming events! Let Plan It Expo guide you through every step of your wedding journey, helping you turn your vision into reality.
For more information and to secure your tickets, visit www.planitexpo.com. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!
Tips for choosing the right entertainer for your wedding:
When choosing a DJ-MC entertainer for your wedding, here are a few tips for couples who want peace of mind and a stress-free, fun experience.
First and foremost, seek out a wedding professional with the right credentials. Choose one who comes highly recommended by venues and other vendors as they know best! You also want to
be sure that you choose an entertainer who fits your style. You want to connect on both a personal and professional level as you’re essentially partnering with them in the planning and execution of the most important celebration you’ll ever host.
Couples often turn to social media for advice and that becomes a popularity contest, often resulting in poor advice from friends who have no expertise in what they’re recom-
mending. There are so many “side-hustle” DJs who are very affordable, and fine for a party or pub, but they often lack the experience, programming ability and proper equipment to effectively entertain at a wedding.
No two DJs are exactly alike and one who is great to one couple may not be the right fit for another. There are many different styles to consider. Do you want a traditional, open format DJ who will play to all ages? Do you lean more toward a conservative / professional approach or do you prefer a “hype man,” doing all the party dances and pulling guests out of their seats? Some couples love that, and others don’t! If your vision is more of a nightclub vibe with quick mixing and mashups, a great, but conservative DJ may not be the best fit for you. There are many great options, but be sure to choose wisely and ask lots of questions.
The role of the DJ-MC you choose is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding.
Once you’ve picked the right DJ for you, here’s your part.
If you want a full dance floor at your wedding, it’s important that you join in on the dance floor, especially early in the evening as dancing begins! Fun is contagious
and you’re the “rock stars” of the evening! Your participation early on will set the tone for a great night ahead! When the guests of honor are having fun, others will follow. Help lead them onto the dance floor for an amazing, high-energy celebration!
When a wedding seamlessly flows from one special moment to the next, it’s not by chance! A true professional who has the experience and one who invests their time into proper preparation will consistently deliver excellence.
Ken Schaffer is a life-long, dedicated wedding professional. He can also be heard on Wibbage FM 94.3. Ken’s DJ career began in Delaware County, PA as a teen who loved music and radio. From his humble beginnings hosting school dances, he went on to build one of the largest DJ entertainment companies in PA which still exists today. Ken now resides at the South Jersey Shore, and can be found entertaining regularly at weddings and corporate events. He’s been awarded the prestigious “Best of The Knot” designation for 8 consecutive years and he’s been awarded “Best DJ” in the Atlantic City Weekly Reader’s Choice Nightlife Awards. If you’d like to learn more, visit KenSchafferEntertainment. com or on most social media platforms.
Planning the perfect beach wedding
Our beaches offer a dramatic and romantic setting for your special day, allowing you to share your vows against the backdrop of breaking waves and Atlantic waters on the horizon. New Jersey offers a few beach settings, and you can marry along the shoreline even if you aren’t a New Jersey resident. While arranging a beach wedding isn’t overwhelming, it’s best to handle these tasks far in advance to give you the best chance of
securing your preferred site. Some towns, such as Cape May, allow you to hold your beach wedding without a permit, while others, such as Atlantic City, require you to purchase a permit.
Prep your guests
Make sure your guests know that the wedding is actually on the sand, so they can dress appropriately. This can be communicated with the invitation (included with the map/directions), on your wedding website and through word-of-mouth.
Feet: Some beachy couples are providing a “shoe valet” where guests can trade out their Ferragamo pumps for casual flip-flops. Another nice touch is to have a de-sanding station—Soft bristle paintbrushes are a fun way to wipe the sand from between your toes!
Eyes: Sunny days at the beach can be blinding, so make sure everyone knows to bring sunglasses, hats, or parasols—you don’t want them squinting at you the entire time!
Weather: Remind your
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Shaun Reilly
Shaun Reilly
guests to bring appropriate wraps, in case it gets chilly. It’s not a bad plan to have sweaters, shawls, sweatshirts or even blankets on hand, should Cousin Ann show up without her pashmina. Alternatively, if it’s a high noon ceremony in August, providing cool drinks (you can even order your own private-label bottled water!) and paper fans (we love them printed with wedding programs) would make guests more comfortable.
Dress code
A beach wedding is not the ideal setting for a formal ballgown or long train. Whether you opt for a tropical island sheath or a demure slip-dress, take advantage of the heaps of stylish fashions available to set a coastal mood. Light
fabrics, such as sheer silks and chiffons, have a nice fluid movement to them, yet still look dressy.
If you’re having a platform set up as a wedding aisle, then your satin pumps will be fine. Otherwise, consider sandals…or why not go barefoot? Find a pair of bejeweled
barefoot sandals and you’ll look both dressy and casual. You can save your high heels for the reception.
And don’t forget your own wrap—a filmy stole, lacy shawl or faux-fur capelet makes an elegant cover-up while keeping goosebumps at bay.
Loose, flowing hair may suit your free-spirited style, but if there is strong breeze, you could be battling strands in your face. Instead, select a wedding hairstyle that has at least the front part of your hair off your face. Loosely arranged updos are also a lovely choice.
Shaun Reilly
unlike anywhere else. From dining and decor to entertainment and more, our dedicated staff will work with you to ensure that every detail is exactly as you imagined it. Savor the moment among our breathtaking ocean views and delight in the one-of-a-kind touches our boardwalk location will bring to your celebration.
Why Resorts:
• Rich History – We bring the best of classic charm and modern amenities together.
• Full Destination Venue – Everything you need is right here, from luxury hotel rooms and themed restaurants to beautiful ballrooms and stunning beach views.
• Creative Cuisine – Discover chef-inspired menus to satisfy you and your guests’ every craving.
• Exceptional Service – Our talented, experienced wedding professionals are focused entirely on you.
Schedule a tour today! Call 680.340.6826.
Atlantic City, NJ | ResortsAC.com
