2021 Wedding Planner by Messenger-Inquirer

2021

wedding

planner

a special supplement of the Messenger-Inquirer

Contents

wedding

planner editorial Jodi Keen

advertising Angela Mayes Chad Thompson Holly Hayden Keeley Ham Lynn Saffran Shelby Mays

design

PHOTO COURTESY OF OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Maegan Saalwaechter

contributors Bret and Brandie Photography Green River Distilling Co. Home Builders Association of Owensboro Owensboro Convention Center White Chateau at Cecil Farms Willow & Pine Market

1 Safety Couples can forge ahead with precautions

6 12-month planner Try our timeline, task manager and tip sheet

12 Catering Keep guests satisfied by using these food tips

Owensboro, KY 42301 270-926-0123 (option 6) advertising@messenger-inquirer.com www.messenger-inquirer.com

2 Saving up 11 Outdoor wedding Devise a thorough plan Let Mother Nature to avoid financial hiccups host your nuptials

14 Florals Choose flowers by season,

budget and availability

on the cover Bret and Brandie Photography Dress: House of White

4 Cut costs Enjoy your wedding while also saving money

12 Registries Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trending in 2021 from a local shop owner

16 Venues Put a unique spin on your big day with local spots

Bouquet: Petal and Pine Hair and Makeup: Katie Yokum Planning: Vida Events

Couples planning to tie the knot in 2020 confronted a challenge in COVID-19 unlike any other they’ve likely had to face. And while vaccinations are underway and more safety procedures are being implemented, the virus will still affect gatherings, including weddings, throughout 2021. Nevertheless, couples can forge ahead with wedding preparations while also building COVID-related precautions into their big day. Editor’s Note: Always consult local laws and regulations regarding COVID-19 while planning your wedding, and be mindful that they may change by your wedding date.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE CHATEAU

COVID-19 precautions Confirm local COVID-19 regulations Restrictions related to COVID-19 differ greatly by region and even city; areas that are not hit hard by the virus may not have as many restrictions in place as those that are being roiled by the outbreak. The World Health Organization notes the importance of checking local guidelines prior to planning an event, and that’s especially important for couples who hope to get married in towns or cities where they don’t reside. Be sure to stay up-to-date with local safety regulations; with COVID case rates rising and falling, it’s possible that local regulations are different by the time your wedding arrives.

Keep your guests informed about precautions Include detailed information about the safety measures that will be implemented during the wedding on your wedding website. Include a card detailing this information in your invitation envelopes as well so all guests know what to expect when they accept your invitation. And be sure to remind guests of the safety precautions throughout your wedding day.

Provide sanitary supplies and guest guidance Make sure hand sanitizer, soap, water, and masks are readily available for all guests; some couples have even chosen to personalize such items with their monogram. Social distance markers also can be placed on the ground throughout the venue to make it easy for guests to stay six feet apart from one another.

Check for restrictions with your vendors Some businesses are excluded from COVID-related restrictions; others are not. It’s critical to communicate with all vendors — from the venues to the caterers, photographers to stylists — about the particular guidance they must follow so they don’t run afoul of any government mandates.

Choose an outdoor venue The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that COVID-19 spreads most easily through person-to-person contact and that the risk of spreading the virus is greater when spending time indoors. Mitigate some of that risk by tying the knot outdoors and then hosting an outdoor reception where tables are kept at least six feet apart. Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 1

The question has been popped; the engagement ring presented. What’s the next step on the road to the wedding? Saving up for your wedding. A wedding is a major financial undertaking, no matter who’s paying for it. According to a study conducted by The Knot, the average cost associated with a wedding in 2019 was nearly $40,000. And too often, couples budget too little for their big day. Devise a thorough financial plan and avoid unexpected expenses with this advice.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE CHATEAU

Save up for your wedding Get informed It’s impossible to budget for a wedding and ultimately save without knowledge of what services and items cost in the area where you plan to wed. A wedding in New York City, for example, can cost tens of thousands of dollars more than a ceremony in Mississippi. Dig into researching what photographers, florists, transportation providers, caterers, venues and wardrobe vendors charge for common services. The results may encourage you to move your wedding location to a less expensive area, or they may show you that your desired location is more affordable than you realized. Either way, get those numbers and compare them.

Flesh out your budget Once you have gathered estimates, you can then figure out a financial goal. This also is when you can determine where to rein in spending and where you might want to splurge. If having a video memory of the wedding is not a top priority, you can skip videography services. If you have a special flower that you like, you may want to budget more for that bloom if it isn’t in season. (See more cost-cutting tips on page 4.)

Set up a dedicated savings account One of the easiest ways to save for big-ticket items like a wedding is to use an automatic savings account, often available through your bank. An automatic savings plan will pull a set amount from a personal checking account into a savings account through auto-draft. Couples can link individual checking accounts to one savings account to contribute jointly.

Scale back everyday spending An analysis of your day-to-day spending habits will likely reveal areas where you can scale back so you can devote more funds to wedding savings. Do you need a takeout coffee in the morning or can you brew a pot at home? Might you be able to scale back on streaming services? Do you feel comfortable buying less expensive store brand groceries over name brands? Small, daily savings can quickly add up.

Add up gifts Factor in deduction of expenses that other people will commit to covering for wedding expenses, but only if you have concrete confirmation. A parent may host the rehearsal dinner. A relative may offer to pass down an antique wedding gown to wear. But rather than simply removing these funds from your savings calculations, keep them as a safety net to put toward unforeseen expenses. 2 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

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Although The Knot’s 2019 study put average wedding costs around $40,000, lots of little details come together to build up the price; according to the study, the reception venue alone averages $15,000. But with careful planning and culling, couples can slash costs and still enjoy the wedding of their dreams. Start with these tips.

them to contribute to a dessert bar at your reception. Entrusting tasks to skilled loved ones keeps their organization close while also lending a personal touch to the festivities. Something important to remember: With few exceptions, you should offer and expect to pay your loved ones for the time they put in (and definitely the materials they need) on your wedding’s behalf. They’re performing services, just like your contracted vendors, and should be compensated. Your loved ones may decline payment and offer their services to you as a gift, but that should be their choice. Regardless, budget for a small gift for each team member to thank them for their contributions. It’s also critical to communicate with your team and have people in place who you actually like and trust; if a task is handed to someone unpleasant or unreliable, only misery awaits.

ASSEMBLE A TALENTED CREW

LOOK FOR ALL-IN-ONE VENUES

Is your friend a graphic designer? Hire them to create custom invitations. Got a cousin who’s talented on the piano? Have them tickle the ivories while the bridal party marches down the aisle. Does your mother have an eye for design? Ask her to take charge of decorating. Do your aunts all have killer dessert recipes? Ask

All-in-one venues continue to rise in popularity. Staying onsite for your wedding and reception — and even your overnight accommodations — cuts down on transportation costs and saves valuable time between wedding prep, photos, the ceremony and reception. Reception venues often supply tables and chairs, and their preferred vendors list

4 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

PHOTOS COURTESY OF OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Cut costs with these tips

may get you additional services at a lesser price than if you contracted them yourself.

BE SMART WITH FLORALS Go for silk flowers versus fresh. Not only is the selection vastly larger — you won’t run into out-of-season blooms with silk flowers — but their longevity far outweighs fresh flowers, allowing them to be displayed as keepsakes or passed onto future generations of betrothed couples. For fresh flowers at a reasonable price, stick with in-season varieties, and accent them with greenery, which often costs less than blooms and yet gives bouquets a fuller look.

RENT INSTEAD OF BUY Nearly everything, from dinnerware to dresses, tablecloths to decorations, silverware to sound systems, can be rented for your big day. Men’s attire has long been temporarily procured for the day of, but dresses can be, too. Renting can be a way to ease the costs associated with bridesmaids and flower girl dresses, which are usually worn once and then discarded. For brides, don’t feel that you have to unload four-to-six figures for your perfect dress; often, sites such as Rent the Runway can supply a gorgeous gown at a reasonable price. Event rental stores are a one-stop

shop for rentals pertaining to dinnerware, decor and accents — think a chalkboard to display your dinner menu, a lantern to hold your gift envelopes, or a trellis to stage the backdrop for your “I do’s”. Rentals almost always require a deposit, and some stores may require cleaning of tablecloths, napkins or dresses before their return. If you plan to leave for your honeymoon soon after your wedding, be sure someone is available to return your rented items by their due date.

KEEP YOUR CATERING SIMPLE Keep the menu as simple as possible with one-to-two entrees, two-to-three sides, and up to three drinks. On your invitations, poll your guests to find out exactly how many have food sensitivities or dietary preferences, then order slightly more of that amount in food that meets their needs. Stay basic with most of your drinks — many guests enjoy water, iced tea and lemonade — but consider a custom drink or cocktail to add a personalized touch. And since alcohol will usually cost the most of anything on your drink list, invite your guests to BYOB. In lieu of a formal dessert or cake for all, consider a dessert table, cupcake tree or cookie bar, where guests can load up on small, inexpensive treats that cost significantly less than a three-tiered, fondant-laden cake. Many bakeries offer custom cookies and cupcakes in designs of the couple’s choice, so wedding treats can still be personalized. If you have your heart set on cutting a cake, opt for a small one with 4-6 servings, so you can share a bit and save the rest for your first-year anniversary.

OPT FOR FUSS-FREE MUSIC DJs and live bands have been a fun, traditional way to celebrate at a wedding reception, but they also can pile up the costs: The Knot’s 2019 study estimated that bands command an average of $4,247, while a DJ averages $1,292. While some elements of those prices are costeffective — bands and DJs often bring their own professional sound systems and light displays — a DIY approach can also be successfully applied. With only a laptop, a sound system from your own living room and a friend to hit “play” on a Spotify list, your reception can come alive for a fraction of the price — and no musicians going rogue and straying from

your preferred song list.

RETHINK WEDDING FAVORS Take-home favors have long been a wedding reception staple, but they also can inflate your budget. If you want to cut costs in this area, opt for something small, functional and fun: personalized seed packets of your favorite flower, miniature monogrammed photo frames, or heartshaped magnets. Look for items that can be bought in bulk, and hunt for a local artisan or supplier to avoid shipping costs.

PLAN DOMESTIC HONEYMOON, OR DELAY TRAVEL Honeymoon travel takes a big bite out of the overall wedding budget, but it can be trimmed with smart planning. The biggest solution is to stay nearby, or within driving distance or a direct flight. The further you go, the more travel costs increase. Big cities also command a higher price for overnight accommodations and parking, so consider staying in the outer metro area and taking public transportation into the city. Most international travel requires passports, visas, currency exchanges, and — in some countries — health screenings prior to your arrival. Each of those requirements has certain costs associated with it; if you’re traveling internationally, don’t forget to add them to your budget. Lots of simple maneuvers to cut costs are within reach: Check into your credit card reward points or airline miles, and see if they can be applied to an area of your honeymoon. Arrange your flights and accommodations on weekdays, which often cost less than weekends. Research your destination to see if any big events are taking place during your desired dates; that is almost certain to drive travel and hotel costs higher. If you belong to a travel club such as AAA, contact your local agency about travel arrangements and guidebooks that may be discounted or already are part of your membership. Like all-inclusive resorts, look for accommodations that offer stay-and-play deals, such as tickets to a sporting event or concert, dinner at a well-established restaurant, or personal tours of the area. Another big cost-saving option is to time your honeymoon during your destination’s off-peak season; accommodations and transportation are often much cheaper then. Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 5

CEREMONY SITE ADDRESS CONTACT

month

PHONE

CHAIR RENTAL FEE PARKING

12 months

HANDICAP ACCESIBLE?

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

......................................................................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................

HOURS OF WORK................................................................................................................................ PHOTOGRAPHY COST............................................................................................................... DEVELOPING COST......................................................................................................................... TRAVEL COST............................................................................................................................................... WEDDING ALBUMS.......................................................................................................................... ADDITIONAL PRINTS..................................................................................................................... ENGAGEMENT PHOTO............................................................................................................ WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT PHOTO..................................................... SPECIAL REQUESTS......................................................................................................................... WHO OWNS RIGHTS? DISC?......................................................................................... TOTAL COST OF PHOTOGRAPHY...................................................................... DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

............................................ ............................................

DATE ALBUM WILL BE READY....................................................................................

VIDEOGRAPHER

PHONE EMAIL

SONG DETAILS

..........................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................ ........................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

PHONE

...........................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

SETUP DATE/TIME

............................................................................................................................

RECEPTION TIME/LENGTH

............................................................................................

MINIMUM/MAXIMUM # GUESTS SIZE OF TABLES

CHINA/LINENS RENTAL FEE ........................

........................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................

TABLES/CHAIRS RENTAL FEE PARKING

HOURS OF WORK TRAVEL COST

.............................................................................................................................................

SPECIAL REQUESTS

.......................................................................................................................

WHO OWNS RIGHTS? DISC?......................................................................................... TOTAL COST OF VIDEO

........................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

............................................ ............................................

......................................................................................................

PHONE EMAIL

SPECIAL DANCES

PHONE EMAIL

.....................................................................................................................................................................

.........................................................................................................................................................................

PRE-WEDDING SESSION 1 ............................................................................................... PRE-WEDDING SESSION 2 ............................................................................................... PRE-WEDDING SESSION 3 ............................................................................................... REHEARSAL TIME/PLACE .................................................................................................... ARRIVAL TIME/PLACE HOURS OF WORK TRAVEL COST

SONGS TO NOT PLAY

EARRINGS

.............................................................

..................................................................

SHAPEWEAR

........................................................

TOTAL ACCESSORY COST

VEIL

...................................................................

SHOES

........................................................

NECKLACE SLIP

...............................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE ALTERATION NAME

........................................

...................................................................

............................................ ............................................

.......................................................................................................................

ALTERATION PHONE

..................................................................................................................

ALTERATION DROPOFF DATE ALTERATION PICKUP

..................................................................................

FLORALS FLORIST.................................................................................................................................................................... PHONE EMAIL

.....................................................................................................................................................................

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COLOR SCHEME FLOWERS

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................

ALTAR DECOR

...........................................................................................................................................

ATTENDANTS’ BOUQUETS............................................................................................... FLOWER GIRL BASKET

..............................................................................................................

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..........................................................................

FATHERS’ & GRANDFATHERS’ BOUTONNIERES MOTHERS’ & GRANDMOTHERS’ CORSAGES DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

.................

..........................

............................................ ............................................

FOOD AND BEVERAGE CATERER ................................................................................................................................................................ PHONE

.....................................................................................................................................................................

PRICE RANGE OF MENU MEATS

.....................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................................

SIDES ............................................................................................................................................................................. PRICE EACH CHILD PRICE

ALLOW REQUESTS? .......................................................................................................................

PUNCH AND SOFT BEVERAGES............................................................................

LAST DANCE TIME

HORS D’OEUVRES

..........................................................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF CEREMONY MUSIC

........................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................

BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

..............................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................................................................................

FIRST DANCE

.............................................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE

..........................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................

OFFICIANT

HEADPIECE

RINGBEARER(S) BOUTONNIERE

...................................................................................................................................

DATE VIDEO WILL BE READY.......................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

..........................................................................

GROOM’S ATTENDANTS’ BOUTONNIERE

.........................................................................................................................................................................

SONG DETAILS

GARTER

............................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

TIME OF ARRIVAL

TOTAL GOWN COST

GROOM’S BOUTONNIERE

.............................................................................................................................................................

HOURS OF PLAY

..................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................

............................................

CONTACT.............................................................................................................................................................

INTROS

OFFICIANT.........................................................................................................................................................

........................................

RECEPTION MUSIC BAND/DJ

...............................................................................................................................................

BRIDAL BOUQUET..............................................................................................................................

BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

TIME OF ARRIVAL

.....................................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................

HANDICAP ACCESIBLE?

RECORDED MUSIC

SIZE

PEW MARKERS...........................................................................................................................................

PHONE

.............................................................................................................................................................

COLOR

.....................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE

MEETING

TOTAL ALTERATION COST

VIDEOGRAPHER...................................................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................................................................................

............................................

.............................................................................................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF VENUE

.....................................................................................................................................................................

............................................

RECEPTION SITE CONTACT

STYLE

FITTING DATES

TOTAL COST OF CEREMONY MUSIC

ADDRESS

............................................ ............................................

6 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

.....................................................................................................................................................................

EXPECTED DATE

.........................................................................................................................................................................

TIME OF ARRIVAL

........................................................................................................................................................................

PHONE

ORDER DATE

.....................................................................................................................................................................

HOURS OF PLAY

THE GOWN STORE

............................................

CONTACT.............................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................

9 months

............................................

SOLOIST/GROUP...................................................................................................................................

TIME OF ARRIVAL ................................................................................................................................

........................................

......................................................................................................

CEREMONY MUSIC

.....................................................................................................................................................................

MEETING

........................

........................................................................

........................................................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF VENUE

RECORDED MUSIC

PHOTOGRAPHER

............................................................................................................................

MINIMUM/MAXIMUM # GUESTS

Use this handy guide to keep important notes as you decide the details of your event. Keep these notes for reference so no details are missed.

PHONE

...........................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

SETUP DATE/TIME

PLANNING GUIDE

PHOTOGRAPHER

.............................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF FOOD

.........................................................................................................

............................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE

............................................

BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

............................................ ............................................

READ THE FINE PRINT Some venue packages may seem like they cost significantly more, but check to see if they include chairs, linens, etc. Sometimes paying more for the venue will end up saving you.

ADULT BEVERAGES ALCOHOL

...........................................................................................................................................................

BARTENDER

..................................................................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

6 months

............................................ ............................................

TASK MANAGER

tracts If con ver co don’t , then ases the b sure make o. you d

BRIDAL ATTENDANTS STORE

........................................................................................................................................................................

CONTACT ADDRESS PHONE

........................................................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

FITTING DATE DRESS STYLE SIZES

Wedding planners and day-of coordinators know the ins and outs of a successful wedding day. If you don’t hire one then remember the small, yet important tasks that will need to be accomplished. Don’t tie down one family member to the point they cannot enjoy your day. Instead, ask multiple people to help with small tasks throughout the day.

............................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................

task

..........................................................................................................................................................................

who

when

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COLOR(S)

............................................................................................................................................................

FLOWERGIRL(S)

......................................................................................................................................

SIZES/COLORS........................................................................................................................................... HEADPIECE....................................................................................................................................................... SHOES......................................................................................................................................................................... GLOVES.................................................................................................................................................................... JEWELRY

..............................................................................................................................................................

ORDER DATE

...............................................................................................................................................

EXPECTED ARRIVAL FITTING DATES

......................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................

TOTAL ATTENDANT COST

..............................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................

CONTACT ADDRESS PHONE

........................................................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

FITTING DATE

............................................................................................................................................

RINGBEARER(S)

......................................................................................................................................

JACKET STYLE/COLOR SHIRT STYLE/COLOR

Disperse favors Coordinate wedding party Guest book/take it to reception Gather ceremony decorations

Pack up gifts Money/Card box Clean up after reception

...........................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................

CUMMERBUND/VEST STYLE/COLOR TIE STYLE/COLOR

Set up reception area

Cut and serve wedding cake

GROOM ATTENDANTS STORE

Transport decor/misc. to sites

........................................................

.............................................................................................................................

SHOE STYLE/COLOR SOCK STYLE/COLOR

TOTAL TUXEDO COST

.............................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

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BEAUTY MAKEUP ARTIST ADDRESS PHONE

...................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................

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PRACTICE DATE/TIME # OF PEOPLE

..............................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................

TIME OF ARRIVAL

..............................................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE HAIRDRESSER ADDRESS PHONE

............................................ ............................................

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.............................................................................................................................................................

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PRACTICE DATE/TIME # OF PEOPLE

..............................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................

TIME OF ARRIVAL

............................................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

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Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 7

6 months ...................................................................................................................................................................

CONTACT/PHONE SETUP DATE/TIME TIERS/SERVINGS

...................................................................................................................................

CAKE FLAVOR/SHAPE FILLING/ICING

...............................................................................................................

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DECORATION/TOP

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GROOM’S CAKE FLAVOR/SHAPE SERVINGS

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT CALL THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER AT 270-926-0123

CONTACT/PHONE

WEDDING CAKES BAKERY

TRANSPORTATION LIMOUSINE SERVICE

......................................................................

...........................................................................................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF CAKES

.......................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

MAKE/MODEL

HOURS NEEDED

BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

2 months

PASSPORT OR VISA NEEDED....................................................................................... DEPARTURE DATE & TIME RETURN DATE & TIME AIRLINE

................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

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FLIGHT #s

COST

..............................................................

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CREATE A SCHEDULE FOR VENDORS FINALIZE CEREMONY & RECEPTION TIMELINES APPOINT JOBS

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RING COSTS

..............................................................................................................................................

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WARRANTY COST

.............................................................................................................................

ALTERATION COST

.........................................................................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

HOTEL NAME

.............................................................................................................................................

RESERVATION # ADDRESS PHONE

COST

.....................................................................................................................................

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.....................................................................................................................................................................

MEALS INCLUDED

............................................................................................................................

SPENDING MONEY ESTIMATE

................................................................................

TOTAL COST OF HONEYMOON

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DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

............................................ ............................................

GIFT REGISTRY REGISTERED AT REGISTERED AT

.....................................................................................................................................

TOP ITEMS REGISTERED

.....................................................................................................

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CONTACT ADDRESS PHONE

...........................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................. ..............................................................................................................................

TOSSING BOUQUET

6 weeks

ANNOUNCEMENTS ........................................................................................................................ ENVELOPES

....................................................................................................................................................

THANK YOU CARDS PROGRAMS

HONEYMOON. IF YOU HAVE A GAP BETWEEN THE

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REHEARSAL DATE & TIME ADDRESS

SETTING A GOAL TO WRAP THOSE UP BEFORE YOU LEAVE.

LEAVE REVIEWS YOU CAN WRITE THESE BEFORE OR AFTER THE WEDDING. IF YOU WERE IMPRESSED WITH A

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MAIL REHEARSAL INVITES BY

WEDDING AND HONEYMOON DEPARTURE, TRY

..............................................................................

.................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

PRESERVED.

SEND THANK YOUS

SET DAY OF BREAKFAST PLAN SET DAY OF SNACK PLAN

RESPONSES

HAVING IT PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED AND

SEND THESE PROMPTLY AFTER THE WEDDING OR

REVIEW CEREMONY WITH OFFICIANT SET DAY OF LUNCH PLAN

............................................................................................................................

GOWN CARE HELP KEEP YOUR GOWN IN GOOD SHAPE BY

..................................................................................................................................................................

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ENCLOSURES................................................................................................................................................

TO ANNOUNCE YOUR WEDDING.

....................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................

INVITATION STYLE

after the wedding OR VISIT MESSENGER-INQUIRER.COM/BRIDAL/

BEVERAGE TABLE

OTHERS

PACK FOR HONEYMOON

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

...................................................................................................................

GUEST TABLES/NUMBER CAKE TABLE

SOCIAL MEDIA FILTER

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SWEETHEART TABLE FAVORS

FINALIZE SEATING ARRANGEMENTS

CALL THE MESSENGER-INQUIRER AT 270-926-0123

DELIVERY TIMES......................................................................................................................................

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SAVE THE DATES

............................................

CEREMONY

INVITATIONS AND PRINTING DESIGNER

HEAD TABLE

FOLLOW-UP ON UNACCOUNTED RSVP’S WRITE WEDDING VOWS

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GOING-AWAY CORSAGE

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RECEPTION DECOR ROOM/HALL

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REVIEW VENDOR CONTRACTS

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PICKUP DATE

MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLY FOR MARRIAGE LICENSE

SET ASIDE VENDOR PAYMENTS & TIPS

WEDDING BANDS SIZES

4 weeks

MISCELLANEOUS

CREATE SCHEDULE FOR WEDDING PARTY

BUDGET

TO ANNOUNCE YOUR ENGAGEMENT.

1-2 weeks

MAIL INVITATIONS

..............................................................

........................................................

............................................

OR VISIT MESSENGER-INQUIRER.COM/BRIDAL/

PICKUP DATE

ESTIMATED TAXI COST ............................................................................................................

CAR RENTAL

............................................

MISCELLANEOUS

TRAVEL AGENCY...................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE

HONEYMOON

DESTINATION

...................................................................................................................................

TOTAL TRANSPORTATION COST

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PHONE.......................................................................................................................................................................

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# OF VEHICLES/PASSENGERS.....................................................................................

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ADDRESS...............................................................................................................................................................

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CATERING/DINNER LOCATION

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CATERING/DINNER TIME ....................................................................................................

PARTICULAR STAFF MEMBER OR SITUATION, LEAVE A REVIEW WHILE IT IS FRESH ON YOUR MIND. BEFORE LEAVING A NEGATIVE REVIEW ALLOW TIME TO WORK OUT ISSUES. YOUR VENDORS WILL APPRECIATE THIS.

....................................................................................................................................................

CHANGE-OF-ADDRESS CARDS DATE ORDERED

.............................................................................

....................................................................................................................................

DATE EXPECTED.................................................................................................................................... TOTAL PRINTING COST TOTAL POSTAGE COST

DEPOSIT AMOUNT................................... DATE DUE BALANCE AMOUNT............................... DATE DUE

............................................ ............................................

8 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

TRAVEL MUST KNOW! Names on airline tickets and passports MUST match. Since those tickets are bought pre-wedding, order each under your maiden name. If your passport was issued less than a year ago, there is no fee to get the last name changed. If it was issued more than a year ago, then you need to apply for a passport renewal and pay the appropriate fee.

FREQUENTLY FORGOTTEN often come at discounted prices.

TIPS FOR TIPPING WEDDING VENDORS

BEAUTY

Unsure if you should tip or not?

• Never wait until the day or two prior to get hair colored, to

• Double check all contracts first and make note of which vendors will

tan, have lashes done or teeth whitened. If something goes

include gratuity.

wrong, allow time to correct it without inducing panic.

• Rather than including the tip on the final invoice, tip the employees

ACCOMODATIONS • Is your wedding out of town for a lot of family and friends? Consider blocking out rooms at a nearby hotel for them. These

RECEPTION • Some venues require you to obtain insurance for the event; others may only request it if bartenders will be serving the reception. Don’t forget to ask if insurance is included or not and budget accordingly.

who specifically worked the wedding. Small business owners are an exception to this. • Even if a tip is not expected, feel free to leave one when you’ve received extraordinary service. • Don’t forget to send thank you notes or reviews to all your vendors.

• Venues may require cleanup before the end of the night. Assign cleaning duties to the wedding party or others who are able to help prior to event. (Use our task manager on page 7)

Expected DELIVERY + SETUP

MAKEUP + HAIR

• Rental companies or venues may ask that tables and chairs

rate: $5-$10 per person

rate: 15-25%

be stacked and ready for pickup. Check with yours to see what

timing: after delivery

timing: upon completion

they require.

OFFICIANT

COORDINATOR/PLANNER

FOOD

rate: $50-$100

rate: $250-500

• Have plenty of water available.

timing: at the rehearsal

timing: end of reception

• Make sure plates, cutlery and napkins are available for food and cake tables, as well as something to cut and serve the cake. • Bring the cake topper if it wasn’t left with the cake baker.

Check contract

PETS

BARTENDERS

VENUE ATTENDANTS

• If your pet isn’t in or attending the wedding, remember to

rate: 10-20% of bill

rate: $1-2 per guest

have accommodations set for them.

timing: end of reception

timing: start of reception

CEREMONY • Don’t forget to bring the marriage license. • Have someone seated up front be in charge of prompting

CATERING STAFF

TRANSPORTATION

rate: 15-20%

timing: end of serving

timing: after last pickup

people to stand and sit at the proper times.

BRIDAL • Popular for bridal parties are emergency kits stocked with

Optional

extra bobby pins, pain relievers, no show socks, etc.

DJ/MUSICIANS

PHOTO BOOTH

rate: $50-$150

rate: $50-$100

timing: end of reception

OTHER • Tradition calls for the bride and groom to purchase gifts for their parents. • There are miscellaneous jobs that you can assign to family

FLORIST

PHOTO/VIDEOGRAPHER

rate: 15-20%

rate: $50-$100 per person

timing: after the wedding

timing: end of reception

and friends. (Use our task manager on page 7)

Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 9

PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE CHATEAU

10 Messenger-Inquirer â&#x20AC;¢ Wedding Planner 2021

Keep these things in mind for an outdoor wedding The choice of venue for a wedding is a significant decision, and many couples are turning to the great outdoors to host their big day. Nature also took center stage at weddings in 2020, as many couples moved their ceremonies outdoors to adhere to coronavirusrelated guidelines on social distancing and gathering. Whether your outdoor wedding is a dream come true or done out of necessity, be sure to keep these important points in mind.

Let your backdrop set the aesthetic An awe-inspiring backdrop, whether it’s the natural beauty of a mountaintop or a beach with the sound of ocean waves crashing into the shoreline, can make for great photos and a ceremony couples and their guests will never forget.

Have a Plan B You may work hard to ensure everything goes off without a hitch for your outdoor ceremony, but ultimately, the elements are in control. If you’re hoping to host an outdoor ceremony, always look for sites that have a readily accessible indoor option just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate. Many reception venues are capable of hosting indoor and outdoor ceremonies as well as dinners, so this might be the best option for couples who want to have outdoor weddings during times of the year when weather is typically inclement or unpredictable, such as winter, early spring or late fall. But even a mild day can turn rainy, so having a backup plan is recommended for any couple planning to wed outdoors.

Be mindful of lighting What’s awe-inspiring in person may be hard to capture on film, particularly if the lighting doesn’t compliment. Couples may want to bring their wedding photographers along as they search for outdoor ceremony sites. Photographers can help couples determine which sites will make for great photos and which ones might make it hard to capture the beauty of the site’s surroundings.

Choose accessibility It’s imperative to ensure that all your guests can easily maneuver about the ceremony. Before choosing an outdoor ceremony site, consider those guests who may have mobility issues and find out what they’d need to move about easily, such as ramps, accessible restrooms or shorter distances between destinations. Also critical is to consider your ceremony location itself — a midday hike up a mountain might be doable for many guests, but it may exclude others from witnessing the ceremony. Try to find an outdoor ceremony site that’s readily accessible to everyone. Also keep in mind that the more accessible a site is, the easier it is to get away and get indoors if the weather takes a sudden, unexpected turn for the worse.

Micro weddings can still pack a big punch Even once the coronavirus is tamed and it’s safe to resume regular-sized get-togethers, micro weddings will continue to be an inexpensive, intimate way to celebrate your nuptials.

Choose an intimate venue

Cater to a smaller crowd

Couples looking for one venue to hold their small ceremony and reception can find attractive options in bed-and-breakfasts, botanical gardens, or even a rented public outdoor space. Also consider a loved one’s or your own home, backyard or farm to host your ceremony and reception. Since micro weddings cater to a small group, such spaces won’t feel crowded.

Micro weddings cut down on the need for a big spread, which ups the freedom couples have when planning their wedding meals. Start searching for small-business caterers near your reception location who work out of their kitchens and arrange their own crew. They often offer delicious, home-cooked dinners for reduced-size groups at a fraction of the price offered by a restaurant. For a more intimate take on catering, invite attendees to partake in a potluck. Request an aunt make a beloved dish or a cousin supply a few bottles of their homemade fruit wines. Not only will the meal be personalized, but valued family traditions are often shared via meals, making the get-together all the more special.

Whittle down the wedding party If you’re not into freshly sprinkled rose petals in the aisles or a big group of friends surrounding you at the alter, then think about eschewing an overcrowded wedding party. Flower girls, ring bearers and ushers are all critical parts to larger weddings, but they may not be necessary if your ceremony is small. Even bridesmaids and groomsmen don’t have to make the cut, but it’s recommended to keep a matron of honor and best man to help you get ready and stay on schedule the day of.

Don’t skip the necessities As with larger weddings, always check vendors’ credentials, health inspection reports and liability insurance. Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 11

Registry Trends Registering for gifts is one of the more fun wedding activities for engaged couples. Although tastes change over the years, some registry items remain timeless. So what’s trending for 2021 wedding registries? We asked Anne Marie Higgins, owner of Willow & Pine Market in Owensboro.

Practical pieces

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WILLOW & PINE MARKET

“My brides-to-be are coming in with a pretty clear idea of what they want, and they want things that are practical and easy to care for, but are going to be long-lasting (and) good quality,” Anne says. “These young people are busy, and I think that’s where the need for the easy, practical items comes in.” Pieces like Mason Cash mixing bowls (as seen on “The Great British Bake Off”) and dinnerware are popular, Anne says, because “they’re affordable and practical, and they come in lots of colors.”

Entertaining staples Registrants “do a lot of casual entertainment — they have a lot of casual gatherings with friends and family,” Anne says. “They want fun things, like charcuterie boards and the accessories for that, or bourbon glasses and stemware.” Teakhaus chopping blocks and cutting boards double as practical kitchen items as well as bases for charcuterie boards, and lively patterned utensils from Island Bamboo inject fun into entertaining.

Catering cues for the big day Don’t let the beautiful decorations and fancy dresses distract you — food and drinks are a monumental part of planning a wedding. Whether a plated meal, a buffet spread or hors d’oeuvres, let your menu offer something satisfying and unique.

Support local businesses Local small business can always use support, but after the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, that’s true more than ever. Think of ways to fuse local elements into your wedding menu. For example, Owensboro’s famous Old Hickory Bar-B-Q offers many of its beloved meats, sides and sauces to go, meaning anything from mutton to ribs, barbecued bologna and even catfish can factor into your menu. The restaurant’s elite smoking team can also custom cook ham, turkey and deer, and the restaurant even has a banquet room that can host the rehearsal dinner. When it comes to drinks, lean on Green River Distilling Co. to craft a custom cocktail for your big day. The distillery’s collection of high-quality whiskeys serves as the perfect foundation for drinks specifically tailored to your reception. If buying in bulk, shop at Val-U Liquors to help keep drink costs down. 12 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

Kitchen organization Fun utensils and kitchen gadgets are big, and Anne says the pandemic has something to do with that. “Everybody’s spending more time at home and more time in the kitchen,” she says, so having an uncluttered, efficient kitchen storage system has been trending not just with engaged couples, but shoppers of all ages.

A few special pieces “They do want a few special pieces, like keepsakes,” Anne says. “Things like a cake stand or a serving platter — something they know is going to be in their family for the entire time they’re married and they will pass down someday.” Anne says “a little bit of china” still makes its way onto gift registries, and classic items such as a scalloped serving tray by Bella Bianca or the elegant Finezza Cream dinnerware by Arte Italica are perfect for when couples want to add a special touch to their at-home gatherings. Willow & Pine also carries a few pieces of timeless Polish pottery, a rare find these days for in-person shoppers.

3023 Highland Pointe Dr, Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-2555

Free Wedding Consultation

Tip: wedding party gifts

Case Discounts

New 2nd location! Val-U West on Hwy 60!

126 W. Second St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 478-1022 • willowandpinemarket.com

10% OFF BRIDAL CATERING

Implement charcuterie boards Charcuterie boards are trendy and cheerful, and the options are endless for customizing them. Love cheese? Get hunks of brie, goat cheese, and a soft cheese, and surround them with slices of kiwis, strawberries, grapes, mangoes, figs and peaches. Hosting a day-after brunch? Serve a board of pancakes surrounded by bacon, scrambled eggs, fresh fruit and toppings like chocolate chips or Nutella. Organizing hors d’oeuvres? Pair prosciutto with figs and blue cheese, and pomegranates with a cranberry cheese roll. Arranging appetizers for guests who eschew meat? Couple olives, hummus and nuts with jams, bruschettini and pita wedges.

Take it to go

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GER-INQU ENGER-INQ UIIR SSSSEN R

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2019

2020

A EA R ER

Looking for a novel take on the traditional wedding meal? Hire a food truck. Whether it’s snow cones, tapas or tiramisu, almost anything comes on wheels nowadays. One of the most popular food trucks in the area belongs to Real Hacienda. The Express food truck comes fully equipped to whip up the Mexican restaurant’s famous street tacos and arroz con pollo. Guest can enjoy their grub in a fun, socially distanced atmosphere and still feast on a delicious spread.

O I O IC CE E

Visit Willow & Pine Market

Kegs!

P L AT I N U M

As you build your registry, don’t overlook items that could make for fun gifts for your wedding party. Willow & Pine carries products from Clayton & Crume, a Louisville startup that specializes in fullgrain leather goods. The company makes everything from passport holders and wallets to belts, keychains and beer holders. A perfect wedding party gift is its leather-wrapped bourbon glasses, stamped with a customized monogram.

P L AT I N U M

3023 Highland Pte. (off Hwy 54), 270-684-5595 4820 Frederica St. 270-685-5950

Now order online! www.real-hacienda.com Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 13

PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE CHATEAU

A fresh take on florals

Floral arrangements are Establish your theme early on key components of wedding Floral arrangements will complement and enhance other elements of the wedding, themes, helping establish including the color scheme and even the wedding’s theme. If your wedding theme ties into a specific ambiance at a specific season, your florist will work to find blooms and other pieces that go with your both the ceremony and theme. For example, winter weddings with white, ice blue and silver color schemes may reception. Flowers can coordinate with white ranunculus flowers, dahlias, dusty miller foliage, and viburnum berries. easily help couples achieve a desired vibe, whether Bring swatches and photographs to your consultations that’s rustic, romantic, It’s easier to explain ideas and color palettes to a florist with examples in hand. Show your florist modern or even whimsical. the types of arrangements you prefer and have actual fabric swatches from bridesmaid gowns But they don’t come cheap: or groomsmen vests so that those established colors can be complemented by your flowers. A survey by The Knot of more than 27,000 couples who married in 2019 Create a list of desired floral arrangements found that the average Florists may sell items a la carte or have packages of common floral pieces for wedding cost of wedding flowers celebrations. Types of floral arrangements can include the bridal bouquet, bridesmaids’ bouquets, that year was $2,000. maid of honor bouquet, corsages for mothers and grandmothers, boutonnieres for groomsmen The cost, however, varies and fathers and grandfathers, flower girl headpieces, petals to sprinkle, table centerpieces, altar depending on the scope of arrangements, pew or chair decorations, and cake decorations. Some of these arrangements are the arrangements and your important to engaged couples; others aren’t. Decide what’s important to your vision. choice of flowers, including whether or not they’re in season. Go easy on fragrances How can you get the Tread lightly when selecting blooms that have strong aromas. They most floral bang for your may be beautiful, but many people are sensitive to smells. Your guests’ wedding buck? Enlist allergies also may be exacerbated by flowers with strong fragrances. the help of a skilled, knowledgable florist who Be clear about your budget can weave together your Research the average cost of floral arrangements and let the florist know what you vision and budget. Together can afford. This can help the florist narrow down options or make substitutions with your florist, dive into that fit your theme and your budget — or even help you realize that your vision is planning your wedding flowers with these tips. bigger than your budget and that you should pare down your expectations. 14 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

Reserve the Banquet Room for Receptions & Meetings Accommodates up to 150 people. 270.688.0353 www.hbao.com

NEW LOCATION!

COME VISIT OUR NEW STORE AT 126 WEST 2ND STREET

NOW OFFERING WEDDING REGISTRY!

WILLOW & PINE MARKET

TA B L E • K I T C H E N • H O M E www.willowandpinemarket.com

Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 15

Think outside the box for your wedding venue

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GREEN RIVER DISTILLING CO.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF OWENSBORO

Long gone are the days where wedding ceremonies only took place in churches and receptions were hosted in banquet halls. These days, everything from farms and public parks to bed and breakfasts, private residences and libraries can play host to wedding festivities. Here are some Owensboro-area venues to put a unique spin on your big day.

16 Messenger-Inquirer • Wedding Planner 2021

Home Builders Association of Owensboro The HBAO’s facilities are perfect for hosting affordable small-to-medium events in a comfortable setting. Kitchen facilities are available for onsite meal preparation, and its location just off Carter Road and U.S. 60 is easily accessible no matter which direction you’re traveling from.

Green River Distilling Co. Why not host your festivities in a place steeped in history — and whiskey? The site of the Green River Distilling Co. has been crafting whiskey off and on since 1885, and while many of the buildings are newer, its sense of tradition is as timeless as its recipes. With the distillery covering 28 acres, there is no shortage of spots that can host wedding ceremonies and receptions of any size. The main event space, known as the Bottling House, holds up to 300 people for seated dinners and live entertainment. The facility also comes with a 700-squarefoot, event-ready kitchen and private security for the duration of the event. And don’t forget the unique part that Green River’s bourbon can play in your event. As an active distillery, the site can host tours and tastings for wedding guests.

PHOTO COURTESY OF OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER

Owensboro Convention Center Almost nowhere in the area offers as stunning a view as the Owensboro Convention Center. The convention center remains one of Owensboro’s most elegant venues, capable of hosting weddings and receptions of all sizes. Perhaps hold a scenic wedding ceremony overlooking the Ohio River on the Kentucky Legend Pier, and then enjoy unparalleled riverfront views from window-lined walls while enjoying dinner in one of the facility’s ballrooms. The venue also offers everything from decorating services to catering, putting most of the event planning under one roof. A bonus: The convention center’s proximity to Owensboro’s bustling downtown makes it easy to access guest accommodations as well as the shops, restaurants and entertainment venues that Owensboro is famous for.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WHITE CHATEAU

White Chateau at Cecil Farms This French country-style facility west of Owensboro sits amongst rolling farmland and evokes timeless charm. The glamorous former barn provides a rustic-yet-classy aesthetic that can transcend any wedding vision and make it a dreamlike reality. The team at White Chateau helps couples plan their festivities, using their expert knowledge of the facility and farm to make each wedding unique. The team can handle everything from vendors to decor, catering to a backup plan. Employees also help decorate, flip rooms and restock restrooms during the event. White Chateau also goes a step further, offering the adjacent Robinette Farmhouse for overnights related to onsite weddings. The 2,000-squarefoot brick ranch has two baths, a full kitchen and a terrance, can sleep six and commands generous views of the surrounding farmland. The location is perfect for a bridesmaids’ sleepover or couple’s retreat, or to house wedding guests. Wedding Planner 2021 • Messenger-Inquirer 17

The

Perfect

Wedding may start with a building, but it carries through into every detail.

Start Your Story Here. Contact: events@whitechateau.com www.WhiteChateau.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.ShopCecilFarms.com @whitechateau @cecilfarmspd