Premier Weddings of Chicago Spring 2019 by Premier Weddings

Premier

weddings Spring 2019

of Chicago

Kristina & Kevin Cover Feature on Page 10

PUBLISHER Premier Weddings Magazine ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Email Nick Thiele at nick@premierweddings.com CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW TO REQUEST A MEDIA KIT

LETTER FROM THE

Premier Weddings Magazine is all about inspiring couples planning their weddings, and showcasing the work ALL vendors in your area - big and small! As you plan one of the most sacred events of your life, we hope that you not only flip through these pages to be inspired, but to get great exposure to the actual work of some of Chicago’s incredible wedding vendors!

2019 Media Kit

editor

WHO ARE, AND WHY THAT MATTERS TO

you!

It’s our focus on making sure you’re exposed to ALL the amazing vendors in Chicago - big and small! It’s important to understand that other wedding magazines charge thousands of dollars to advertise with them. This makes it extremely difficult for smaller (yet amazing) vendors to be able to promote their services. This is a problem. Just because vendors choose to run a smaller operation and can’t afford to spend $3,000 or more on an advertisement, doesn’t mean they’re not incredibly talented and worth considering. They may be the very best choice to turn your dreams into a reality! We collaborate with our advertisers so that not only is it affordable for virtually all vendors to showcase their work, but we can hand-pick those vendors that we believe will provide couples with the absolute best service and overall experience! We hope that you’re as inspired by this issue as we are, and thanks for reading!

ABOUT THE COVER Photographer: Layla Eloa Photography Venue: Rockwell on the River

Happy Planning,

The Premier Weddings Team!

Photo Credit: AMA Photography & Cinema

EXQUISITE SHOT

Contents Page 10

Kristina & Kevin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Rehearsal Dinners 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Jackie & Liam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Brittany & Bradley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Choosing a Wedding Cake . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Catherine & Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Page 16

Jocelyn & Kody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Questions to Ask a Caterer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Dana & Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Caitlin & Travis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Wedding Dress Shopping Tips . . . . . . . . . . 50 Kelly & Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Page 20

Michelle & BrIan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Styled Shoot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Page 30

Page 32

Credits Page 40

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS FOR REAL WEDDINGS IN THIS ISSUE Caitlin Lisa Photography Elite Photo Emilia Jane Photography Inspired Eye Photography Jill Tiongco Photography Layla Eloa Photography Leah Moyers Photography Meghan McCarthy Photography

Page 44

Page 54

Page 58

Page 60

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS FOR CONTENT FEATURES Alexander Cross Photography Ama Photography & Cinema C. Baron Photography CamillaRain Photography CHARD Photography Ellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography Frances Photography Ivy Weddings Jonathan Ivy Photography Kaley Elaine Photography Krista Lee Photography Kristyn Hogan Photography Lacy Dagerath Photography Mark Thomas Photography Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers SD Photography

COVER FEATURE

KRISTINA & KEVIN PHOT OGR A P HE R : L AY L A EL O A P H O T O G RAP H Y

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / LAYLA ELOA PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / ROCKWELL ON THE RIVER

other local vendors: Jake Spade Tuxedo · Sarah Seven · Anjelica Bannos Artistry · Siren Salon · Carol Sarlas Orchestra · Life in Bloom · Sweet Mandy B’s · D’Absolute Catering · Clementine Custom Events

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Rehearsal Dinners

Rehearsal Dinners 101: Choosing the Perfect Venue The rehearsal dinner is a casual or formal gathering for the wedding party before the wedding that provides an opportunity for both families to get to know one another in a fun, relaxed environment. It’s a time to mingle, do a gift exchange, offer toasts, and provide some last-minute instruction about the actual wedding details. Rehearsal dinners vary as much as the wedding itself. They can be formal banquets or garden parties, casual picnics, or even a BBQ.

WHO TO INVITE Turn the dinner into a fabulous welcome party - if your wedding is mostly local

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

friends and family but a few key people traveled far to come to your wedding, extend the invitation to them as a thank you for their extra effort. If you’re throwing a destination wedding or a party where at least half of the guests are from out of town, show your appreciation by inviting everyone to some kind of night-before festivity.

WHERE TO HAVE IT A sit-down dinner at a hotel ballroom or nice restaurant is the norm, but there’s no right or wrong when you plan your rehearsal dinner. Restaurants are ideal for

many because couples can focus on the more meaningful details - knowing that the food is taken care of! However, relaxing in a nice backyard, at an art museum, or even on the beach are perfectly acceptable locations. It just depends on your style and budget.

SOME POINTERS

from the pros!

WHEN TO INVITE YOUR GUESTS To help your guests manage their schedules, send out invitations with, or shortly after, your wedidng invitations. This will not only help your guests plan their travel, but ensure timely RSVPs.

HOW TO INVITE YOUR GUESTS If your rehearsal dinner will be at a high end restaurant, hotel ballroom, etc., you should send formal invitations. If, on the other hand, your rehearsal dinner will be more casual, such as an intimate gathering at your future in-laws home, then you can be more casual with your invitations. You can send e-vites or send DIY invites. Make sure it’s clear to your guests where they need to be and when. Your guests will want to dress appropriately, so details are important!

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3 Don’t wait to book your venue 3 Use a seating chart 3 Don’t forget the bridal party gifts 3 Delegate responsibilities 3 Stick with your wedding theme 3 Have fun, but don’t stay out too late

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THE WEDDING OF

JACKIE & LIAM P HOT OGR A P HE R : CAI T L I N L I S A P H O T O G RAP H Y

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / CAITLIN LISA PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / GERMANIA PLACE

other local vendors: Brooke and the Nice Things · Formally Modern Tuxedo · Weddington Way · Louvienne by Lovely Bride · Kenmare Catering · Sweet Mandy B’s · Chicago Flower Company · Nika Vaughan Bridal Artists · Minted

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THE WEDDING OF

BRITTANY & BRADLEY P HOT OGR AP H ER: EL I T E P H O T O

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / ELITE PHOTO

venue / WHITE EAGLE GOLF CLUB

other local vendors: Patty McGuire Hair & Makeup Artists · Urban Beauty · Sweet Creations by Tracey · Mens Wearhouse · David’s Bridal · Floral Events

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

Wedding Cakes

6 Things to Consider When

Choosing a Wedding Cake!

CHECK WITH THE VENUE Some wedding venues don’t allow you to bring in an outside cake. It’s important to check with your wedding venue first, and find out if there’s a fee for not getting your cake through them. You’d be surprised how much it can cost per slice to make arrangements to bring in your own cake.

SIZE IT CAREFULLY You should have a good idea of how many guests you expect at your reception. Let your cake decorator know that, as well as how confident you are in that number. You want to avoid getting more cake than you need, but you also don’t want to be short handed. Take the advice of your cake decorator on this topic. They do this for a living!

outside layer of buttercream or ganache, providing a perfectly smooth surface with a stronger structure, more heat resistance, & a whole new world of decorating options. Without a smooth layer of frosting underneath, fondant won’t stick to the cake properly & will show every imperfection. Fondant does not affect the taste or the inside of the cake at all, so design the outside of the cake to your heart’s content. A good baker will have several generous layers of buttercream filling between the cake layers as well as on the outside underneath the fondant. Very few weddingsized cake slices even touch the outside of the cake, so it’s important that the inside has a nice cake-to-buttercream ratio. With cakes, as with people, it’s what’s INSIDE that counts!

WEATHER & LOCATION SHOP IT AROUND Wedding cakes are an important part of your wedding, and like everything else, you should shop around for the best service. The best service isn’t always just who has the lowest price. You want to know how easy it is to communicate with the cake decorator. You’ll also want to read ample reviews to know how others feel about their experiences.

THE FROSTING Fondant does NOT replace buttercream on cakes. It is a beautiful ‘skin’ placed over the

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

Your options may be limited based on if you’re having an indoor or outdoor wedding.If you’re having your reception in July at a outdoor wedding venue, then you’ll need to avoid buttercream or whipped cream frosting. Nothing is worse than an icky mess that doesn’t hold up in warmer weather.

VENDOR COLLABORATION Many couples choose to put fresh flowers on their wedding cakes. If this is the case, you need to make sure your florist and cake decorator are able to communicate. Make sure you know whether it’s the florist or the cake decorator that’s going to add these final touches.

Wedding Photo Checklist With the Bride q Bride alone – close up and full-length q Bride touching up makeup and hair q Bride with mother q Bride with father q Bride with both parents q Bride with grandparents q Bride with siblings q Bride with maid/matron of honor q Bride with groom’s sister(s) q Bride with all bridesmaids q Bride with flower girls q Bride with entire immediate family q Bride with father waiting to walk down the aisle

With the Groom q Groom alone – close up and full length q Groom with mother q Groom with father q Groom with both parents q Groom with Brothers q Groom with bride’s brothers q Groom with best man q Groom with all groomsman q Groom with ring bearer q Groom with entire immediate family

At the Ceremony Venue q Officiant q Groomsmen seating guests q Registry attendants & greeters

Photo Credit: Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers

q Seating of grandmothers q Seating of mothers q Lighting of unity candle by parents q Groom waiting at alter with best man q Processional of wedding party q Maid/Matron of honor walking down the aisle q Ring bearer walking down aisle q Bride and father before walking down the aisle q Bride walking down aisle with father q Bride being given away q Entire ceremony scene once everyone is present q Bride and groom at the alter q Exchanging of rings q Exchanging of vows q Lighting of the unity candle q Exchanging of the kiss q Announcement of Mr. and Mrs. q Recessional

After the Ceremony q Bride with register attendants q Bride and groom with greeters q Bride and groom with readers q Bride and groom q Bride and groom with wedding party q Bride and groom with bride’s parents q Bride and groom with groom’s parents q Bride and groom with bride’s family q Bride and groom with groom’s family

PHOTOGRAPHY

During the Ceremony

Wedding Photo Checklist Reception Photos q Bride and Groom’s entrance to reception q Bride and groom’s first dance – full length q Bride and groom’s first dance – close up q Bride dancing with father q Groom dancing with mother q Bride and groom talking with guests q Toasting q Bride and groom cutting cake q Bride tossing bouquet q Groom taking off garter q Bride with all girlfriends q Groom with all best friends q Candid reception photos q Guests preparing for bride and groom’s “going away” q Bride and groom leaving reception

Miscellaneous q Wedding cake q Food table q Decorations q Musicians q Gift table q Decorated car q Bride’s bouquet

Photo Credit: Krystyn Hogan Photography

Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography

THE WEDDING OF

CATHERINE & ALEXANDER PHOT OGR A P HE R : EM I L I A J AN E P H O T O G RAP H Y

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

PREMIER VENDORS photographer / EMILIA JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / THE MURPHY CHICAGO

other local vendors: Luxe Brides By Nicci · After Six · Hickey Freeman · Tiffany & Co. · Stuart Weitzman · Rosa Clara · Charlie Hilbrant Films · Makeup by Stephanie Perez · Larry King Orchestra · Alliance Bakery · HMR Designs · Limelight Catering · Big City Bride

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THE WEDDING OF

JOCELYN & KODY PH OT OGR A P HE R : I N S P I RED EY E P H O T O G RAP H Y

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / INSPIRED EYE PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / HYATT LODGE

other local vendors: The Wedding Rev · Genevieve’s Bridal Couture · Salon G · Lezza Spumoni & Desserts · Fourth Estate Audio · Stemming From Love

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

You’ve made a commitment. So have we. We’ll help you create a once-in-a-lifetime wedding at Hyatt Lodge. With sophisticated ballrooms adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lush grounds, Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook can be the location for you to say “I do!” to the love of your life. Our wedding planners and culinary team will help you design the perfect celebration. You have our commitment to make your wedding day one-of-a-kind, with no detail left out.

Please visit thelodge.hyatt.com or call us at (630) 581-6620 for 2019-2020 availability.

2815 Jorie Boulevard, Oak Brook, IL 60523 P: (630) 581-6620 thelodge.hyatt.com

Catering

8 Essential Questions to Ask Your Caterer! Every bride wants to be a good hostess and provide enough tasty food and drink to keep their guests in good spirits. Therefore, the most critical decision you will make for your wedding is the caterer. They can make your wedding reception a dream or a nightmare. A good caterer can easily handle the preparation, service and clean up of the meal seamlessly. Many caterers also provide the rentals such as linens, dishes, and even tables and chairs as a service to their brides. Some even provide bartenders and cut and serve the cake. This one stop shopping experience can be valuable on saving time and money. First, contact your venue for a list of approved caterers. Some venues require you to use one on the list. Ask who they recommend. If your venue does allow outside caterers, begin asking for recommendations from friends and family. If you use a caterer that has never worked at that venue before, request a list of the requirements they have to meet in order to work on their property. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sign on the dotted line until you have had a tasting. Once you have found

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

one that makes your tastebuds happy, ask these 8 questions to finalize the details.

What is the ratio of servers to guests, and how will the servers be dressed? The service and atmosphere of the dinner hour is just as important as how the food tastes. Ask your caterer about the number servers they plan to provide for for your guest list. If you are having a buffet, you need one server for approximately every 20 guests. If you are having a plated meal, you can have one server for every 15 guests. Also, be sure their attire will match your atmosphere. You may assume the servers will be in black tie only to have them show up in the company polo.

Talk cocktails and cake. This is where you will need to do some logistical work among your venue, cake bakery and caterer. You will want to make sure you (and your vendors) are clear on who is doing what. You do not want to pay double for both vendors planning to serve cake and cocktails or worse, no vendor planning to do so. Bartending and

cake service may be options your caterer provides. If you choose to utilize them, discuss each of these services and have your final decisions specified in your contract.

How is your pricing broken down (e.g. food, bar, tax, gratuity)? A caterer should be upfront and clear about exactly what is included in their quote. If you are unsure, ask for an itemized quote. Many brides have blown their budget at the end of the wedding when they find that service and tax were not included in their pricing. For a large wedding, those two items could be several thousand dollars.

What is your payment policy? While on the subject of pricing, discuss when and how you are to pay. Most caterers will require some sort of deposit when you sign your contract. You havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t truly booked your caterer until this payment is received. It is also important to avoid late fees.

When is my final count date? The final count date is the last day to tell your caterer how many to prepare for. It will save you money and stress to have this number as accurate as possible. Make sure you are clear on this day so you can give the caterer the number.

What is your cancellation policy?

QUESTIONS TO ASK

the caterer

There are a number of things that could come up that could cause you to cancel your caterer even if you are not calling off the wedding. Make sure you know the cancellation policy when you sign the contract. Think of it as Murphy’s Law wedding repellant.

What if my event runs over? Have this conversation with your caterer before all your guests are stuck in traffic. Again, no one plans for their wedding to run behind and the odds are, it won’t. But, just to be safe, ask about their policy just in case. Review question #6 for further explanation.

What is your policy on cleanup? This is probably the last thing every bride thinks of in wedding planning. First, have a discussion on exactly what is considered clean up and who will be responsible for this service. Then, clarify who will clean up and when the cleanup will occur. While you’re at it, discuss what to do with the leftovers.

3 What is the ratio of servers to guests? 3 Who is doing what (cake, bartending)? 3 How is your pricing broken down? 3 What is your payment policy? 3 When is my final count date? 3 What is your cancellation policy? 3 What if my event runs over? 3 What is your cleanup policy?

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

THE WEDDING OF

DANA & JOE P HOT OGR A P HE R : J I L L T I O N G CO P H O T O G RAP H Y

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / JILL TIONGCO PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / ARTIFACT EVENTS

florals / STEMLINE CREATIVE other local vendors: Calla Blanche · Dessy · Black Tux · Arch Apothecary · Andrea Secara · Robbie and Ryan · Alliance Bakery · Elite DJs · Steracle Press · Food For Thought · Fretless Music · Chicago Trolley

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THE WEDDING OF

CAITLIN & TRAVIS P HOT OGR A P HE R : L EAH M O Y ERS P H O T O G RAP H Y

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / LEAH MOYERS PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / FISHERMEN’S INN

videographer / ELAN CINEMA other local vendors: Matthew Christopher Bridal · Makeup by Francesca · Floral Wonders · Two Wild Seeds Baking Company · Mode Events · Zazu Salon · GQ Formal Ware · Wolsfelt’s Bridal · Christopher Callip · Arthur Murray Dance Studio

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Photo Credit: Ellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography

EXQUISITE SHOT

Wedding Dresses

The DOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ts of shopping

for a wedding dress

Bridal dress shopping can be the ultimate girl time or a stressful experience. Even if you are a seasoned shopping aficionado, shopping for a wedding dress is a completely different experience. Fortunately, your bridal appointment will be successful if you remember these shopping tips.

DO: YOUR RESEARCH Build your confidence before shopping by gathering basic knowledge of wedding dresses. Do some simple research on dress styles and silhouettes, designers whose aesthetic matches yours and the colors you like best (yes, there are actually many shades of white). If you can communicate with your sales rep in her language, your appointment will be more successful.

DO: START SHOPPING EARLY Some brides will not start shopping until they have lost 10 more pounds. This is a mistake! The process can be stressful, and the added pressure of a tight deadline adds unnecessary drama. Try to begin shopping 9-12 months before your wedding. Pro Tip: If you are worried about a swing in weight, find a corset style gown.

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DO: BRING A STRAPLESS BRA & PAIR OF HEELS If you want to see exactly how the dress will look, have these items handy. Some dresses will look completely differently with a good foundation or when they are lifted just an inch or two with a pair of heels.

DO: TRY ON DIFFERENT STYLES

DO: START SHOPPING EARLY

You have always dreamed of a ball gown, but may be pleasantly surprised at how elegant you feel in a mermaid or A-line. Trust your bridal consultants and try on anything they suggest. Your dream dress may be homely on the hanger but gorgeous on you.

Some brides will not start shopping until they have lost 10 more pounds. This is a mistake! The process can be stressful, and the added pressure of a tight deadline adds unnecessary drama. Try to begin shopping 9-12 months before your wedding. Pro Tip: If you are worried about a swing in weight, find a corset style gown.

DO: YOUR RESEARCH DON’T: GET HUNG UP ON SIZE Build your confidence before shopping by gathering basic knowledge of wedding dresses. Do some simple research on dress styles and silhouettes, designers whose aesthetic matches yours and the colors you like best (yes, there are actually many shades of white). If you can communicate with your sales rep in her language, your appointment will be more successful.

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It is just a number. Wedding dresses do not run the same as your typical clothing sizes. Don’t let a tiny number in the tag stand between you and your dream dress. Remember your dress will probably require some alterations. It’s about the fit, never about the number.

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DON’T: BRING YOUR ENTOURAGE Bring your trusted advisors--your friends and family that are encouraging yet honest. Do not bring a huge entourage because you do not want to hurt feelings. In this case, the appointment usually leads to confusion and conflicting opinions. It will be hard to focus on your true feelings on each dress.

DON’T: TRY ON A DRESS YOU CAN’T AFFORD It is worth repeating. Do not try on a dress that is outside of your budget, even if it is just to get a feel for a style or size. A $2,000 dress will never be able to compete with a $7,000 dress. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Stick to your price range. Pro Tip: If you are working with a low budget, go for a more simple gown and glam it up with a quality beaded sash or accessory.

DON’T: FORGET ABOUT ACCESSORIES & ALTERATIONS Invest some time in choosing just the right accessories to complement your ensemble and of course, don’t forget to budget for them. Some brides put so much time and energy finding just the right dress and the rest of the details are just an afterthought. You may want a veil, ower crown or hair piece, jewelry, and a pretty sash or belt. Don’t forget about your shoes! You will de nitely need cute and comfy shoes! Your best experience will happen at the best bridal shop. Ask for suggestion to find a shop that offers a great selection in your price range, and helpful bridal consultants.

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Photo Credit: Lacy Dagerath Photography

THE WEDDING OF

KELLY & AUSTIN P HOT OGR A P HE R : J I L L T I O N G CO P H O T O G RAP H Y

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PREMIER VENDORS photographer / JILL TIONGCO PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / THEATER ON THE LAKE

other local vendors: Essence of Australia · The Crystal Bride · Brideside Chicago · Suit Supply · Tamara Make-Up and Hair Artistry · LOLA Event Productions · Smiling Toad Productions · Exquisite Designs · Food for Thought · The Gold Coast All Stars · Steracle Press · St. Michael’s in Old Town · Garrett Popcorn Shops

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THE WEDDING OF

MICHELLE & BRIAN P HOT OGR A P HE R : J I L L T I O N G CO P H O T O G RAP H Y

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

PREMIER VENDORS photographer / JILL TIONGCO PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / LONDONHOUSE

other local vendors: Lovely Bride Chicago · Winnie Couture Chicago · BHLDN · The Dress Doctor Chicago · Brideside Chicago · Formally Modern Tuxedo · Gia Tovar · Joanna B. Artistry · The Simply Elegant Group · FortyOne Films · Steve’s Flower Market · Bittersweet · Amplified Events · Meg Kowieski · Alice Millar Chapel · Windy City Limousine

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STYLED SHOOT P H OT OGR A P HE R : M E G H AN M CCART H Y P H O T O G RAP H Y

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

PREMIER VENDORS photographer / MEGHAN MCCARTHY PHOTOGRAPHY

venue / GALLERY 1500

other local vendors: Calihan Catering · The Groomsman Suit · MelJoy Creations · Vanessa’s Modern Bride · Iulia Burci · Vanessa’s Modern Bride · Halls Rental · Emery Ann Design · BBJ Linens · Gather Vintage Tablescapes · Chicago Custom Cakes · Aysel Cristian Floral Atelier · Savvy Rose Events

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Important Questions

to Ask a Venue

SCHEDULING AND ACCOMMODATIONS 1. Is my wedding date available? 2. How many other weddings are scheduled that day? 3. How many people can the venue accommodate? 4. How long will I have use of the event space(s) 5. I reserve? Is there an overtime fee if I stay longer? 6. Can I hold my ceremony here, too? If so, is there an additional charge? 7. Is there a bride’s changing area? 8. How much time is allocated for the rehearsal? 9. Is there room for a band and/or dancing? 10. Are there adequate bathroom facilities? 11. Is there a coat check? 12. Is the site handicap accessible? 13. Is there parking on site? If so, is it complimentary? Do you offer valet parking?

MONEY MATTERS 1. What is the venue fee and what is included in that price? 2. Is there a discount for booking an off-season date or Sunday through Friday? 3. How much is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable? 4. What’s the cancellation policy? 5. What’s the payment plan for the entire bill?

GENERAL QUESTIONS 1. Is there a backup plan for rain or inclement weather? 2. Who is responsible for setting up and tearing down the decor, and when will it be completed? 3. Does the venue have liability insurance? 4. Will there be security guards on site, or do I need to make my own arrangements?

Photo Credit: C. Baron Photography

VENDORS AND SETUP 1. Must I use in-house caterers, or choose from a preferred vendor list? 2. If I hire my own caterer, are kitchen facilities available for them? 3. Can I bring in a cake from an outside cake maker or must I use a cake made on the premises? Is there a cake-cutting fee? If I use a cake made on site is the fee waived? Do you provide special cake-cutting utensils? 4. When can my vendors arrive for setup? 5. Are there any decoration limitations? 6. Are candles permitted? 7. Are tables, linens, chairs, plates, silverware and glassware provided? If so, is there an additional charge? 8. Can I move things around and decorate to suit my purposes, or do I have to leave everything as is? 9. Does the venue own sound equipment, or do I need to rent my own?

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 1. Are you licensed to provide alcohol service? If so, is alcohol priced per person? 2. By consumption? Are there additional charges for bar staff? 3. What is the food & beverage cost on a per-person basis? What is the tax and service charge? 4. Can I bring my own wine, beer or champagne, and is there a corkage fee if I do? 5. Can I bring in other alcohol?

Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography

Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

Photo Credit: Mark Thomas Photography

Available in our digital issue only!

PLANNING GUIDE

Advice from the pros to help you plan your perfect day!

WEDDING TIMELINE CHECKLIST YOU’RE ENGAGED!

q Determine Budget

q Start Compiling Guest List q Determine Possible Dates q Research Wedding Venues q Create a Wedding Website

12 MONTHS

q Hire a Photographer

q Begin shopping for wedding dresses q Choose your bridal party q Finalize date after considering venue and photographer availability q Book a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests

11 MONTHS q Plan wedding decor q Research floral design & book florist q Book caterer q Choose stationary vendor q Consider hiring a wedding planner

10 MONTHS

q Finalize guest list q Register for gifts

q Choose an officiant

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

q Compile music list for ceremony & reception

9 MONTHS

q Order wedding dress

q Order Save the Dates!

8 MONTHS

q Order accessories

q Plan and book honeymoon (for international excursions)

7 MONTHS

q Choose and order wedding invites q Hair and makeup trial q Order bridesmaids dresses q Send out Save the Dates

6 MONTHS

q Order rental items (tables, chairs, etc.) q Arrange for additional sound equipment, if necessary

5 MONTHS

q Choose groom’s attire

q Purchase shoes, lingerie, and garter q Plan and book honeymoon (local excursions)

q Book wedding night accommodations!

2 MONTHS

q Mail Wedding Invitations q Finalize catering menu (donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the alcohol)

6 WEEKS

q Purchase wedding bands q Confirm # of bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres

2 WEEKS

q Obtain marriage license q Create a wedding day itinerary to give to vendors and attendants q Give final head count to caterer q Finalize seating chart q Confirm vendor arrival times

THE COUNTDOWN!

3 MONTHS

PHOTO/VIDEO

ATTIRE

RECEPTION

WEDDING BUDGET

Photo Credit: Ama Photography & Cinema

Venue & Rentals Catering Beverages Cake Miscellaneous

Gown & Alterations Headpiece & Veil Bridal Accessories Hair & Makeup Groom’s Tux/Suit Groom’s Accessories Children’s Apparel Miscellaneous

Photography Videography Additional Prints Miscellaneous

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

Florals for Ceremony Bride’s Bouquet Bridesmaid’s Bouquets Boutonnieres Corsages Reception Decor Lighting Miscellaneous

Site Fee Officiant Flower Girl’s Basket Ring Pillow Miscellaneous

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

BUDGET

MUSIC FLOWERS & DECOR CEREMONY

Ceremony Musicians Cocktail Hour Music Reception DJ/Band Sound System or Dance Floor Rental Miscellaneous

ESTIMATE

TRANSPORTATION

RINGS

STATIONARY/GIFTS

WEDDING BUDGET

Photo Credit: Jessica Strickland Photography

Save the Date Cards Invitations & RSVPs Seating & Place Cards Menu Cards Thank You Notes Postage Bridal Party Gifts Favors Miscellaneous

Bride’s Ring Groom’s Ring

Limousine for Bride and Groom Limousine for Bridal Party Transportation for Out-of-Town Guests Valet Parking Miscellaneous

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

Marriage License Wedding Coordinator Bridesmaidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luncheon Hotel for Guests Manicure/Pedicure for Attendants Security Other

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

BUDGET

REHEARSAL DINNER MISCELLANEOUS

Catering Bartender Liquor Rentals Decor Music Servers Miscellaneous

ESTIMATE

GUEST LIST Guest

Sent Invite

Attending

How Many

Gift

Thank You

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

_________________________

Yes q No q

_____

____________

Premier Weddings of Chicago // Spring 2019

‘‘

“Determine your overall budget first and allocate your dollars per category. This will help determine the max number of guests that you can afford to entertain.” “Nix plus ones for your friends who are in casual dating relationships. If your bridesmaid begins dating someone a couple months prior to the wedding and you approve of the guy then invite him for cocktails and dancing after dinner.” -- NATALIE DAWLEY - Houston, TX “Weddings are an investment. Your guest on your guest list should be invested in your relationship as a couple and supportive in starting your new life together. If people end up on the guest list because you were invited to their wedding, or they go to your church, that is not a good enough reason.” -- ANGELA PROFFITT - Nashville, TN “Couples should know the approximate number of guest before settling on a venue. Be selective with your guest list because cost per guest will most likely be one of your biggest expenses. ” -- SHARON PEOPLES, Houston, TX

THE GUEST LIST

Tips from the Pros on How to Compile Your Guest List!

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