South Beach Bride Magazine

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

Summer 2009

South Beach Bride

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

Features 8 Your Dream Wedding

Your likes, dislikes, and guilty pleasures are your guidebook for living life. So why should your wedding day be any different?

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Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

While choosing an engagement ring can be an exciting experience, it can also be fairly overwhelming, especially for men with little diamond know-how.

46 Our Feature Wedding Shannon and Justin Schaffer, Fort Myers 70 Green Weddings

Your wedding is not about how much money you spend or how big it is—it’s about how you envision your dreams, beliefs and ¬values.

Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

71 Candy Bars

Having a fabulous bar at your wedding reception is nothing new. But what about one stocked not with liquor but instead with scrumptious treats that guests of all ages can enjoy?

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Choosing Your Wedding Cake Photo by Amorous Photo Studio

Summer 2009

Once you decide to get married your life becomes filled with an endless list of things to do and one of those things is choosing the perfect wedding cake.

South Beach Bride

South Beach Bride 80 SW 8th Street Ste 2000 Miami, FL 33130 Phone: (800) 675-.7088 Fax: (305) 731-2121 admin@southbeachbride.com www.SouthBeachBride.com

Editor in Chief Nancy Davis Assistant Editor Susan Lazaro Jr. Editor Elizabeth Holmes Director of Sales Kate Miller Account Executive Alli Stone Account Executive Marie Sanchez Account Manager Tia Anderson Sr. Contributor James Lopez Contributor Nolan Sloap Contributor Kristen Manieri Contributor Marissa Foglia Graphics Director Steve Clarke Graphic Artist John Christy Graphic Artist Ana Perkins Graphic Artist Melanie Swift Accounting Director Sharon Jacobs Technical Director Bernard Price South Beach Bride is available free of charge via direct mail, through our vendors, or at local wedding registries. South Beach Bride is also available in a digital format which can be seen on the home page of our website, www.SouthBeachBride.com. All requests for a free copy can be done either through a mail request or directly on our website. South Beach Bride is published quarterly in March, June, September, and December.

The ads, opinions, advice and views expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily the opinion of the editors or publishers. South Beach Bride does not guarantee the services provided by advertisers, it is up to you, the reader, to research vendors. South Beach Bride is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, manuscripts, press releases, etc.

South Beach Bride© All Rights Reserved.

Reproductions or use, without express permission, of editorial or graphic content is prohibited.

Dear Bride-To-Be: Congratulations on your engagement!

You’ve found the love of your life, and now the excitement of planning what may be the most important day of your life is upon you. During this time of anticipation and expectation, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the multitude of projects involved with planning your wedding. South Beach Bride is here to help you make this exciting time in your life much easier!

In an eclectic area like South Florida, there is never enough time to visit every reception site, flip through every photographer’s portfolio or hear every band and DJ. Relax and browse through South Beach Bride while you get a pedicure or sit on the beach. We offer you valuable information to plan your perfect wedding. We are here to help you find the perfect components to make your wedding day flow smoothly.

You will find a complete Wedding Planner Guide available both in our magazine and on our website, www.SouthBeachBride.com to assist you with every aspect of your planning. There are guides available and well as important questions to ask each vendor.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to invite you to take advantage of our online Wedding Resource Center. This area of our website provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for some of South Florida’s finest wedding vendors to introduce their services to you. Here, you can read an in depth view of each vendor as well as ask them questions or advice.

View our website, www.SouthBeachBride.com for updates and more information, and find links that go directly to the websites of the wedding experts and venues featured in South Beach Bride magazine.

Lastly, remember we love to hear from our readers for suggestion and comments. We would love to feature your wedding in our magazine! You can email me directly at editor@SouthBeachBride.com.

Best wishes for efficient fun wedding planning and a blissful marriage!

Nancy Davis Editor in Chief South Beach Bride Magazine www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

Contents Gowns & Accessories Photo by Cal Landau Photography

12 Daisy Tarsi 16 King Jewelers 18 WeddingSparkles.com

The Beautiful Bride 20 Isagenix 24 Makeup and Hair Artistry 26 South Florida Spray Tan 28 Goddess Spa on Wheels

Planners Photo by Sean Michael Photography

30 Posh Event Creations 31 Balmelli Creative 32 Beautiful Kreations 33 Carmen Becerra 34 Elizabeth Stinson 35 My Wedding Reception Ideas.com 36 Platinum Florida Wedding Co. 37 Ask Me About Destination Weddings 38 A Social Butterflies Events 40 WhereBridesGo.com 41 A Unique Event by Bri

Invitations & Stationery 42 Paper Visions Invitations &Calligraphy 43 These Handmade Memories 44 Wedding Paper Divas

Photographers Photo by Jason Diaz Photography

52 Amorous Photo Studio 53 Cal Landau Photography 54 Brett Tyler Photography 56 Elegant Occasions 57 Jason Diaz Photography 58 Jonathan Scott Photography 59 MagicalPhotos.com 60 Picture This & Red Door Studio 61 Sean Michael Photography 62 Upscale Photo

Photo by MagiicalPhotos.com

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South Beach Bride

Contents 63 Millenium Limo

Decorate Your Space 64 Soirée Event Rentals 65 Floral Designs by Yamir 66 Balloon Affairs 67 Sophie’s Keepsakes 68 South Florida White Doves 69 Uplyte & whiteSPACE 70 The Wedding Flower Designs

DJ’s & Music 74 75 76 78 80 81 82

Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

Jose Mejia Monster Sound Productions MB Entertainment Paramount Ballroom Simone Vitale Band Seaside Strings Romantic Strings Harp & Violin

Food & Cakes 88 Café Ala Carte 89 A Piece of Cake by Elena 90 Chocolate Fountains ofSouth Florida 91 Heaven Lee Cakes 92 Divine Delicacies Custom Cakes 94 Olde Naples Chocolate 95 Irresistible Confections 96 Risqué Cakes 97 Tender Loving Chocolates 98 The Cookie Bandit, Inc

Photo by Red Door Studios

Photo by MgicalPhotos.com

Photo by Cal Landau Photography

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Summer 2009

Your Dream Wedding

Your M

aybe you’re the type of woman who matches her purse to her shoes everyday, or maybe your idea of a fancy updo for your hair is a pony tail. Are you sporty or sassy?

Is your personality shy or over-the-top? Here’s the bottom line – you know who you are and how to define your style.

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South Beach Bride

Your likes, dislikes, and guilty pleasures (chocolate, anyone?) are your guidebook for living life. You want to live your life, your way. So why should your wedding day be any different?

Finding your wedding day style is essential. It’s the common thread that helps guide your day. Your ceremony, reception, and everything in between is one coordinated affair, and it requires a very cohesive plan. Your style is at the center of the party and you want to make a fabulous impression.

Style Inspiration Finding your inspiration can be tough. But here’s one way to gauge your style. Is your ideal wedding shoe a flip flop? Flats? Sandals? Or to-die-for heels? Your answer is a clue to your style.

“Your wedding style extends beyond color. It’s all about your greater vision for the big day.”

Flip flops are often a choice for the casual bride who wants to dance to every song at the reception. The bride wearing flats or sandals could be more interested in a small, intimate ceremony focusing on simple elegance than in a large wedding. And those fancy heels may indicate a bride who wants to be the center of attention at the party of the year.

There are other ways to find your

style. One of the easiest ways to figure out your style is to ask yourself this question: “What reminds me of my most romantic moment?”

Are you inspired by a trip to Italy? A family gathering in the mountains? A BBQ with friends? A day at the beach?

Brides and grooms need to be true to their tastes and look for a style that captures the essence of the couple.

You should try to tie all the ideas and creativity together and make one unique event.

thing to be happy about, so celebrate with a sunny yellow cake.

Or honor your heritage by incorporating your cultural elements like Celtic knots on a cake for an Irish wedding, or featuring East Indian looks like the color gold and the lotus flower on the cake.

“Finding your inspiration can be tough. Is your ideal wedding shoe a flip flop? Flats? Sandals?

Or to-die-for heels?

Your answer is a clue to your style.”

Color Code Color is an obvious style choice.

Nearly every wedding has some color scheme. Sure the bride traditionally wears white and the groom wears black, but there’s still a lot of room for other hues. Current trendy wedding colors include chocolate brown, pink, celadon, and baby blue.

No matter what color you choose, use your shade of choice to color everything from the invitations and table linens, to your attendant’s gowns and accessories.

Color is a surefire way to add pizzazz to the wedding.

If you think your cake needs to be white and delicate, think again; cakes now feature a palette of colors including lavender, tan, and robin’s egg blue. A lot of cakes are now colored. It makes the cake stand out — it’s more unusual.

Choose a color to match your personality. Your marriage is a

Are you looking for another place to add color and style? Your wedding stationery. The invitations are seen by all your guests before the big day, so they give a sneak peak of your style before the main event. From save-the-date cards, to invitations and thank you notes, this is a great way to showcase your style.

If your nuptials are formal, select something traditional like crisp white or ivory cardstock featuring cursive writing and delicate accents. For a funky wedding, go for a color like bold rose and use a creative font to keep the tone unconventional.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

Photo by Magical Photos

Wedding Vision Your wedding style extends beyond color. It’s all about your greater vision for the big day.

Find your inspiration and make the most of it. A themed wedding is full of style and sophistication.

Place and Time Place and time can contribute significantly to your wedding style. An outdoor wedding may be more casual or rustic than an indoor wedding. The style at a barefoot beach wedding, for example, is often very laid back, while a country club wedding may be more formal. Attire, favors, and even food will reflect the mood of the day.

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The day of the week and the time of the year can make a big style difference, too. A Friday night wedding might be more rowdy like a fun, happy-hour atmosphere rather than an elegant, daytime affair like a Sunday brunch reception.

Compare a daytime wedding to a nighttime wedding and you’ll see a few differences. The menu might be a lighter fare for a daytime event; the dress code can be more formal for an evening wedding.

Both examples are ways your style can vary. So decide whether or not you want a party vibe, a beach party, or a garden party.

Seasonal Style For seasonal style, choose fabrics, colors, and flowers that repre-

South Beach Bride

sent the time of year. When planning a summer wedding, choose lightweight fabrics in light colors and bring in summer elements like fresh fruits and blooms.

You can choose pastels in spring and rich hues in fall, but don’t feel you have to let the season dictate your style. If you love hunter green and you don’t want a winter wedding, who says you can’t have a spring or summer wedding with a winter color? Remember, there’s no set wedding style. Your big day is all about your preferences.

Your wedding day style should match your personality and your vision for the big day. So whether the party’s artistic and edgy, sleek and sassy, or graceful and simple, be true to yourself and go with a style that epitomizes you and your groom.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

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Gowns & Accessories Daisy Tarsi

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nce a yes is uttered from quivering lips and the ring is slipped gently onto a shaking finger, it’s never long before the happy bride-to-be begins her quest to find the perfect dress for her dream day. Such a search often leads brides to one of Miami’s favorite luxury shopping locales, Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, where the famed Daisy Tarsi bridal boutique has been elegantly outfitting brides for more the thirty years.

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As one of the most respected bridal stores in the country and Miami’s most popular purveyor of classic bridal gowns, Daisy Tarsi houses today’s most sought after designers such as Digna Yero, Alvina Valenta, Enzoani, Nicole Miller, and St. Pucchi Sposa.

“...what truly distinguishes this exceptional bridal boutique is the years of unparalleled service...”

If you can’t find the perfect dress, and have your own design in mind, Maryellen will offer her custom design experience to create the gown of your dreams.

Not only do they outfit brides from head to toe with everything from tiaras to shoes, Daisy Tarsi also offers sophisticated attire for bridesmaids by Vera Wang,

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Alvina Valenta, Love by Enzoani, Occasions by Jim Hjelm, Lazaro, Bari Jay and Amsale. Daisy Tarsi also offers a plethora of choices for flowers girl dress by Us Angels and mother of the bride attire.

While selection and style are surely some of Daisy Tarsi’s pillars of success, what truly distinguishes this exceptional bridal boutique is the years of unparalleled service its team provides for the perfect wedding.

On your wedding day, you should look and feel like a princess…and princesses shop at Daisy Tarsi.

Daisy Tarsi 311 Miracle Mile Coral Gables, FL 33134 305-441-6796 www.daisytarsi.com daisytarsi@bellsouth.net

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South Beach Bride

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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King Jewelers

hen it comes to South Florida’s jewelers, few players come close to being in the same league as King Jewelers. A name synonymous with sophistication and class, this family owned business has operated in South Florida since 1912 under the careful hands of five generations of jewelers baring the surname King.

For nearly a century, brides and their future grooms have relied on King Jewelers for unsurpassed expertise, quality, value, and first-class service. “Serving brides is the best part of our business,” says Jonathan King, co-owner. “It’s so nice to see the whole process unfold from the engagement ring to the wedding bands to a lifetime of anniversary gifts.”

Shopping at King Jewelers is always a pleasure.

With a glass of champagne or sparkling water in hand, a member of the King family or one of their expert team members will use decades of experience to guide you in your selections.

King Jewelers prides itself on having the area’s large selection of one-of-a- kind pieces and are the exclusive US carriers of many of Europe’s finest, trend-setting

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jewelry designers. They also have a vast selection of stones from half carrot to fifteen carrots, in every shape, color and size.

Before the big day, come in to choose a gift for your groom to be. King’s carries more than 35 luxury watch brands from Harry Winston to Cartier. Or perhaps choose a set of diamonds studs or a tennis bracelet to complement your wedding day ensemble. King’s also offers a wide range of groomsmen gifts from money clips to cufflinks with custom engraving completed onsite.

Beyond selection and quality, King Jewelers prides itself on exceptional customer service and the warm, friendly environment it provides. With a quality and integrity that is unparalleled, it’s clear to see why King Jewelers is the popular choice for South Florida brides.

18265 Biscayne Blvd Aventura, FL 33160 (305) 935-4900 www.kings1912.com

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Summer 2009

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WeddingSparkles.com

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very bride wants to look like a million bucks as she makes her way down the aisle, but highquality wedding day jewelry can often be a budget breaker. This problem can be easily avoided if you shop at the right place, and WeddingSparkles.com has been providing beautiful, high-quality wedding sets and accessories for over 12 years.

sets outsold all of her other items hands-down, and soon after launched her site with enough wedding sets that fit in a shoe box. After years of building of her side business, she retired from piano teaching to work fulltime on her jewelry site and now has help from three employees.

WeddingSparkles. com still maintains the focus on customer service and high-quality products that helped Caren stand out when she first started selling online.

“We carry only high quality custom jewelry at great prices, and we provide clear, enlarged pictures of all of our products.”

“One thing that I found when I was first starting off was that most sites had very high prices and terrible pictures,” says Caren. “We carry only highquality custom jewelry at great prices, and we provide clear, enlarged pictures of all of our products.”

WeddingSparkles. com offers an immense selection of wedding accessories, including wedding sets, bridesmaids crystal necklace sets, rhinestone necklace and choker sets, tiaras and other hair accessories, bracelets, chandelier earrings, crystal rings, toe-rings, anklets, purses, hats, gifts and more.

But the large site had humble beginnings. Caren Hanson started selling jewelry over the internet in 1997 on Ebay during its infancy. Being a single mother at the time and struggling to make ends meet, Caren taught piano lessons while trying her hand at online sales on the side. She quickly noticed that wedding 18

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Since the selection at WeddingSparkles.com is so vast and varied, you can visit them at www.WeddingSparkles.com to really get a sense of their service, standards, and selection.

WeddingSparkles.com (951) 894-2236 Toll Free: 1-877-693-3390 www.WeddingSparkles.com

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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The Beautiful Bride

Isagenix

I

t’s estimated that more than seventy percent of brides will engage in some sort of diet or weight loss program in the months and weeks before their big day.

Sadly, most of these fad diets will leave brides feeling sluggish and cranky and the majority of brides will likely put the weight back on shortly after the honeymoon. After spending thousands of dollars on hair, make-up, attire and accessories, it makes sense that women desire to be at their physical peek on their wedding day. But does it have to come at the cost of their overall sense of wellbeing? Not anymore… thanks to Isagenix.

pride. “After motherhood, my metabolism went haywire and I couldn’t seem to drop below 190. It was awful. I felt horrible all the time.” It was right around this time that she reunited with her old friend Isabel. “Isabel told me I could lose all the weight in a natural, healthy way without wor-

In recent years, the medical community has begun to more fully understand the link between the toxins in our bodies and the amount of fat on our bodies. In a nutshell, the more toxins your body is carrying, the more fat your body will create to insulate itself from their harmful effects. Say ‘adios’ to the toxins and the fat hits the highway as well.

Seems too good to be true, right?

That’s just what Marie Garcia was thinking when she first heard of Isagenix three years ago from her long-time friend, Isabel Gelo C... “Before becoming a mother, I had always weighed a healthy 102 pounds,” confesses Marie with Marie before Isagenix

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rying about rebounding and feeling crappy all the time. I had to see it to believe it. I tried the Isagenix 9-day cleanse and lost 15 pounds right away. The second time I did the 9-day cleanse, I lost another 12 pounds. I’ve maintained my desired weight now for three years and best of all, I feel fabulous.”

The reason for such dramatic results without the negative side effects is that Isagenix is an all-natural, nutrient-rich system that works on your body at the cellular level. Isagenix Cleanses saturate your

body with pure nutrition which allows your body to hold onto all the good stuff that makes you feel healthy, while releasing all the toxins that make you feel sick. The result is dramatic weight loss that lasts without sacrificing vitality.

“You really can’t find a more ideal weight loss program for brides than Isagenix,” explains Isabel.

“Firstly, the weight will fall of effortlessly without you having to spend hours at the gym. What bride has time for that anyway? Although it’s recommended you exercise for your health benefit otherwise! Second, the detoxifying effects of the Cleanse will not only help you shed pounds, but you’ll notice the effects everywhere else.

“You will look and feel like the Princess you’ve always dreamed of on your wedding day!”

Your skin will be clear and radiant. Your nails will be long and strong. And your hair will be shinier and thicker than ever. Even if a bride doesn’t need to lose weight, with these products she will have more energy, feel healthier and sparkle even more.” On a day when all eyes will be on you, these are side effects you are sure to welcome with open arms.

When you meet Isabel and Marie, independent consultants for Isagenix, their enthusiasm and belief in the Isagenix products are not only convincing, but downMarie after Isagenix

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right infectious. “Isagenix is such a great business because these products literally sell themselves,” says Isabel. “There’s no caffeine and no stimulants, additives nor preservatives in the products whatsoever, as the products are all natural and also don’t interfere with medication. You get loads of vitamins and minerals and feel better than you’ve ever felt. And the results are dramatic. Plus, Isagenix has one of the most generous, easy to understand compensation plans in the business.” And she would know…

Isabel has been a consultant for Isagenix for seven years and has made it her full-time job.

Isabel and Marie suggest that brides opt for a 30-day supply of the Isagenix Cleansing and Fat Burning System. “It’s effective without robbing you of much needed energy.

Plus, it’s easy to follow without being super strict.” If your wedding day is right around the corner, the 9-day cleanse is a great option too. Best of all, your body will be tight and you’ll feel fit and energetic.”

As per Marie, “You will look and feel like the Princess you’ve Isabel before Isagenix always dreamed of on your wedding day!”

The promise of the Isagenix products is to “Cleanse, replenish and revitalize.” Sounds like the perfect prescription for the soon-to-be bride who desires to not only look fabulous, but feel it as well.

Marie Garcia (786) 326-4823 www.voggab69.isagenix.com Isabel Gelo C. (718) 880-7686 www.Weightlossbycleansing.com Isabel after Isagenix

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Makeup and Hair Artistry

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eddings are so memorable because they are lavishly beautiful. From carefully decorated reception halls to colorful floral arrangements and an artful cake, a lot of work goes into making your big day a treat for the eyes. Amidst all of that splendor, it is the bride that still manages to stand out and captivate the guests with her beauty. To make sure that you look your absolute best when you walk down the aisle, you should seek out Makeup and Hair Artistry by Christy Immke.

Christy is a seasoned expert when it comes to making you the shining star of your event.

When not beautifying brides-tobe, Christy manages a day spa. This means that she is constantly in an environment where she can keep up with all the current trends, styles, and products in the realm of beauty and wellness.

You can visit her website at www. southfloridamakeupartist.com and take a look at her online portfolio.

Once you see the amazing impact her makeup and hair artistry can have on an event, you can call or email her immediately to set up an appointment.

Makeup and Hair Artistry by Christy Immke www.southfloridamakeupartist.com 954-882-3593 christyogden252@hotmail.com

“It’s the most important day for a lot of people,” says Christy, “and I like making them look the best that they’re ever going to look.” Christy has been involved in the beauty and wellness industry for 10 years, and she specializes in bringing her esthetic talents to brides all over Florida. With weddings comprising roughly 80% of her business, 24

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South Florida Spray Tan tanning company in the South Florida area, and her first distinguishing decision was to bring the tanning machines to the customer, rather than the more traditional storefront approach.

“We will actually go to the bridal suite a day before to tan the wedding party. We can also do a bachelorette party in the hotel room or just come to your location for a girl’s night out,” says Goldman. You can always schedule a solo session, but in the event of a tanning party with five or more people, the host gets a complimentary spray tan.

Using the best products in the business was Jill’s next important decision.

S

ince whites and pinks are the norm for the average bridal party, nobody wants to look washed out at a South Florida wedding. If you don’t want to risk the strength of the Florida sun to get you a beautiful, bronzed look that will set off the white of your dress, then you should schedule an appointment with South Florida Spray Tan. By now, it’s no secret that the UV rays utilized by tanning beds can be harmful to your skin. South Florida Spray Tan brings their state-ofthe-art machines directly to you in 26

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order to provide a safe, fun, and natural-looking tanning solution.

“We will actually go to the bridal suite a day before to tan the wedding party.”

The company is owned and operated by Jill Goldman, a licensed esthetician who has parlayed her experience in the industry to launch her own tanning service. Jill’s goal was to start up a different kind of

South Beach Bride

“Our machine is really a wonderful product,” says Goldman.

“It’s the same product that is used for Dancing with the Stars.”

On the South Florida Spray Tan website, the tanning machines are described as having absolute no overspray, which means virtually no cleanup after a quick tan.

If you’d prefer to get your sunkissed look in the privacy of your own home as opposed to in a busy tanning salon, then you can start by visiting South Florida Spray Tan’s website at www.southfloridaspraytan.com.

South Florida Spray Tan www.southfloridaspraytan.com (954) 610-7212

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Goddess Spa on Wheels

e perfectly pampered and spectacularly spoiled on and before your wedding day without leaving the comfort of your home or hotel room thanks to Linda Tical from Goddess Spa on Wheels. Becoming wedding day fabulous doesn’t happen over night. In fact, today’s brides begin the process weeks before, beginning with detoxifying and clarifying facials and peels that let your natural beauty shine through.

A few days before your wedding, Linda will apply your Minx Nails, the hottest fashion trend to hit the Miami area and the best way to add major glam to your wedding day look. Minx nails are flexible film strips that come in foils, sparkly metallics, and photo-quality designs plus they won’t chip or smudge. Unlike toxic nail polish, Minx is applied with a heat procedure so there are no chemicals used for the application or the removal. Best of all, Minx Nails strengthens your nails and are applied faster with no drying time. Try them and you’ll quickly see why Minx Nails are adored by celebrities like Beyoncé, Victoria Beckam, and Mariah Carey.

After your nails are complete, Linda will then apply your Goddess Lashes, eyelash extensions that will make your eyes pop and take years off your face. Natural, light-weight, and much more durable and lasting than fake lashes, eyelash extensions will give you that alluring and sophisticated look that will perfectly complement your wedding day make-up application, also thanks to Linda. Lash extensions are even waterproof so you don’t have to give them another thought when you’re taking a dip with your sweetie on your honeymoon.

All of these services and more are completely mobile, which means no traffic and no loud and buys salons. While the rest of your day is sure to be a little zany, you’ll appreciate that Zen-like bliss Goddess Spa on Wheels supplies as you beatify.

(786) 326-6463 www.goddessspaonwheels.com www.minxmiami.com www.goddesslashes.com 28

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Planners

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Posh Event Creations

troll down the aisle, share your first dance, and cut the cake without giving a second thought to the details of your wedding day… this is Posh Event Creations’ promise to every bride they work with. With nearly a decade of experience under their belts, the coordinators at Posh Event Creations plan

embarrassment) to their careful transportation of special items to the ceremony and reception, Posh Event Creations will have your back every step of the way.

Ask any of their previous brides and they’ll surely tell you to simply relax and enjoy… Posh Event Creations is on the scene.

(786) 493-2930 www.PoshEventCreations.com

spectacular events that leave brides speechless, not breathless.

“We are, without a doubt, the re ason why so many brides in South Florida have thoroughly enjoyed their wedding day without a care or worry in the world,” says Maricarmen Bandin, owner of Posh Event Creations and a certified, professional wedding planner

by The Wedding Planning Institute. “It’s because we really listen to what our brides want so they can enjoy their special day knowing that we fully appreciate and understand their hopes and desires.”

Specializing in day of coordination, Posh Event Creations offers a variety of affordable packages to suit the needs and budgets of any bride. Their Gold Coordination Package, for example, is priced at just $675 and includes review and confirmation of all vendor contracts, assistance in developing the wedding day itinerary, timeline, and seating chart, distribution of personal flowers at the church, and much, much more.

From their Wedding Day 911 Kit (which has saved more than a few brides from major inconvenience and 30

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Balmelli Creative

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hese days, every bride wants a wedding that is as unique as they are. With meticulous attention to detail, Balmelli Creative has been wowing South Florida with personally designed and individually tailored events that typify the unique tastes and personalities of the brides they have the pleasure to serve.

As an event design company, Balmelli Creative has a hand in nearly every aspect of the wedding. Beginning with the selection of colors and themes, Balmelli Creative ties the entire occasion together by harmonizing lighting, floral design, décor, graphics, and staging.

Even the tiniest detail like the wedding logo is folded into the overall wedding ‘look’. Step by step, starting months in advance, the planning, design, coordination and execution of your wedding day will be expertly carried out with painstaking care.

While Balmelli Creative is certainly sensitive to budgets and current economic conditions, their primary concern is quality. Their events are in a class of their own and brides are consistently blown away by the work that they do. “With Balmelli Creative, you’re gaining access to a tremendous amount of expertise, knowledge and experience,” says Judy Kim, VP of Operations at Balmelli Creative. A full production company that prides itself on creativity and service, Balmelli Creative will create a one-of-a-kind event you’ll remember all your life.

786-242-3458 www.BalmelliCreativeEvents.com

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Beautiful Kreations

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t sounds corny, but the truth is, your wedding day really should be perfect. It ought to represent your individual personality and unique sense of style, and it should be fun and memorable not only for your guests, but for you as well. No one understands this better than Beautiful Kreations, an event planning and floral design company that gives highly personalized and detailed attention to every couple they have the privilege to serve.

Beautiful Kreations prides themselves on their ability to capture all the little details that make a wedding special. From favorite foods to cherished family traditions, every element of your life together will be incorporated to make your wedding event so ‘YOU’. From fifty to fivehundred, no event is too small or too large. Beautiful Kreations will work with you every step of the way or, if you like, handle the day of coordination exclusively.

Have a special theme or motif in mind? By all means let them know – your team at Beautiful Kreations is eager to cater to your every whim.

The details of your wedding need only be limited by your imagination.

Give them a call today and find out why South Florida brides have been praising Beautiful Kreations for their professionalism, pricing and responsiveness.

6666 NW 57 Street Tamarac, FL 33319 (954) 933-7530 events@beautifulkreations.com www.beautifulkreations.com 32

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Carmen Becerra

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ry as you might, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a more experienced wedding planner and coordinator in South Florida than Carmen Becerra.

After nearly twenty years in the bridal business, Carmen has been the behind-the-scenes master at literally hundreds of South Florida weddings.

With the help of her two other wedding coordinators, who also happen to be her son and daughter, Carmen begins the work of pulling together all the details that make

each wedding uniquely special to each bride. Your initial consultation will help you determine important elements such as your budget, theme, and location. Planning a destination wedding? Not a problem. Carmen and her team have traveled from NY to Puerto Rico and are willing to journey to any destination in service of their brides.

In these zany economic times, never before has budget been such an issue; more than ever, it’s important to work with an experienced wedding coordinator. Count on Carmen to assist you in choosing your most af-

fordable options, finding the most economical vendors, and ensuring that you are receiving everything that you are paying for. This is the advantage of having a seasoned wedding coordinator in your corner.

Whether you work with Carmen, her son Miguel, or her daughter Michelle, you are guaranteed to have a partner that is nearly as excited about your wedding day as you are. “The best part of my work is that I make it easy for brides to enjoy their day,” says Carmen with a smile. “I love what I do.”

Carmen Becerra Wedding Planner/Cooordinator (305) 382-3812

Photo by Sean Michael Photography

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Elizabeth Stinson

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lizabeth Stinson is quickly carving out a niche in the South Florida area as a creative wedding planner. Since obtaining her certification from the Wedding Planning Institute two years ago, this rising star has blazed a trail through weddings all over Florida and beyond.

“My goal is to make every wedding more amazing than the last,” says Stinson, who takes pride in continuing to expand her services to fit weddings of every size, style, and budget. One of Elizabeth’s specialties is making low-budget wed-

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dings look like high-budget events.

Not one to fall back on tradition, Stinson often employs a more direct approach to getting the most out of a limited budget. She knows how to take an arts-and-crafts route to putting together some serenely beautiful props and decorations for your big day at a fraction of the cost of ordering them from separate vendors. Elizabeth is also an ordained non-denomination minister, so she is able to officiate weddings as well.

While most of Elizabeth’s business has been in South Florida,

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she is also available for weddings on a national level. She even does destination weddings! You can view a gallery of Elizabeth’s past events on her website at www. elizabethstinson.com, and once you’re convinced, you can contact her via phone or email to set up an appointment. Elizabeth Stinson wants to help “make dreams come true one event at a time.” Give her a call to have your dream wedding realized. www.elizabethstinson.com info@elizabethstinson.com (786) 525-5286

My Wedding Reception Ideas.com

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ne of the most time-consuming aspects of planning a wedding is seeking out and purchasing all of the favors, accessories, and other little touches that come together to form the overall presentation of the event.

My Wedding Reception Ideas.com makes that process easier and more affordable by offering a wealth of quality products through their online store. By focusing on customer service first and foremost, My Wedding Reception Ideas.com stands out amongst other online stores.

“We work hard day-in and

day-out because we are dealing with someone’s major life event,” says the owner, Ray Miller. “We’re contributing to a major event in someone’s life, and we take great pride in that.” When designing the site, wedding couples were asked what they wanted in an online store, and My Wedding Reception Ideas.com was designed accordingly. The online store is stocked full of high quality products and packages, all of which are categorized neatly and arranged by theme and color. More importantly, nearly all of their favors and party accessories are customizable to complement your wedding’s theme.

“One thing that we excel in is personalization,” says Miller. “This results in an intimate relationship with our customers, which is unique for an online business.”

Really, it would be impossible to accurately convey the broad selection that My Wedding Reception Ideas.com provides to wedding couples and planners. They also offer rush orders for those lastminute purchases. To start browsing their immense catalog, visit www.myweddingreceptionideas. com.

www.myweddingreceptionideas.com (800) 605-3415

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Platinum Florida Wedding Co. B

y the time your wedding day arrives, chances are you’ll be working with at least a dozen different vendors. The DJ, the florist, the minister, the caterer, the photographer… etc, etc. Imagine if you could work with just one team who would coordinate every aspect of your entire affair. Can you think of anything more blissful? Hence the thinking behind Platinum Florida Wedding Company, a one-stop-shop for absolutely all your wedding needs.

From understated beach weddings to extravagant Country Club affairs, Platinum Florida Wedding Company expertly handles each and every detail. Only a $40 deposit begins this exciting process towards the day you will never forget.

“Platinum Florida Wedding Company sets the benchmark for allowing people to create their own packages based on their needs and budget,” says Susan Voelkel of Platinum. “And the best part… the bride need only make one phone call.”

This seamless process begins with a thorough consultation where your requests and preferences for your dream wedding are meticulously noted. Then, Platinum sets to work coordinating every detail, negotiating the highest quality service for the best price with a myriad of subcontractors. With relationships built with some of the best wedding vendors in the industry, you rest assured knowing that the best option has been selected for your special day. Platinum handles all the contracts, follow-up, and finalization while you simply sit back and look forward to your day. In the end, they’ll be just one bill to settle up rather than a stack

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(239) 410-7910 www.FloridaWeddingCompany.com

Ask Me About Destination Weddings

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estination weddings are often exciting and exotic, but sometimes the stress that comes along with planning them can overshadow their natural allure. In order to help engaged couples plan the destination wedding of their dreams, Ask Me About Destination Weddings utilize their expertise and venue networking to take all of the worry out of planning your wedding vacation. Ask Me offers venues in dozens of locations all over the globe, and their professionally “Ask Me Romance Experts” help tailor the wedding plans exactly to the wishes of the bride and groom.

You can start planning your destination wedding by contacting any one of the Ask Me experts listed on their website, where you will get your first taste of Ask Me’s personalized service. Whether you’re looking for a low-key, beachside chapel ceremony or a more extravagant event, Ask Me has venues and hotel partners to suit your vision.

If you are wondering how much Ask Me charges for

their services on top of all of the hotel fees and others miscellaneous costs, the answer is: nothing. Since Ask Me provides business to their hotel partners in the form of your wedding festivities, your package price amounts to what everything would have cost had you planned it yourself! That is, of course, before taking into account Ask Me’s numerous hotel discounts and specials that are listed on their site.

Ask Me About Destination Weddings can work closely with the bride, travel agent, or any combination of the two to plan your dream destination wedding, and their agents offer their expertise and advice every step of the way. The value is really a no-brainer, so if you dream of a destination wedding but don’t know where to start, you can begin by heading over to www.askmeaboutdestinationweddings.com and learn more about their incredible packages and services. www.askmeaboutdestinationweddings.com (305) 665-9460 (877) 44-ASK ME

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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A Social Butterflies Events

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lanning a wedding is always an event in and of itself, which is why it’s important to hire a reputable Wedding/Event Planner for your special day. A Social Butterflies Events, headed by Marling Obando, is a Miami-based Wedding/Social Event Planning company that has made quite a name for itself in the South Florida region. While A Social Butterflies Events is known for its distinctive and lavish tea parties, corporate events, Sweet Fifteens and everything in between, their

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specialty are weddings and so they offer an array of wedding ceremony and reception packages for the utmost discriminating bride.

“We design and manage spectacular and unforgettable affairs from start to finish,” Marling Obando says. “We cater to our clients with distinction and style and give them a lavish experience that represents their day according

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to their personalities.”

When you hire A Social Butterflies Events for your wedding, you are getting the full package.

Not only will they assist in planning your wedding every step of the way, but they will also be there on the day of the event to ensure

everything runs smoothly. Want to have an event that meets your desires and budget? A Social Butterflies Events negotiates with highend vendors to obtain high quality products at affordable prices.

A Social Butterflies Events also specializes in planning destination weddings. As it turns out, destination weddings can actually be thousands of dollars less than traditional ones, and A Social Butterflies Events will efficiently manage and plan your vacation wedding.

You can find out more about A Social Butterflies Events distinctive services at www. asocialbutterfliesevents.com.

1-305-924-3262 info@asocialbutterfliesevents.com www.asocialbutterfliesevents.com

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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WhereBridesGo.com

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ne of the most important things to consider when preparing for your wedding is to keep all of your planning as stress free as possible.

Staying organized and making sure that every detail is finely polished before the big day, really is as easy as it sounds. With all of the resources available for brides-to-be, it is always helpful to hone in on websites that cater to all of your needs...a one stop wedding shop. WhereBridesGo.com proudly reigns as the ultimate wedding store.

Starting from the moment you accept his proposal, WhereBridesGo.com happily offers you everything you may need from the ceremony to the reception and everything in between. With novelty and personalized items available, using WhereBridesGo.com is sure to offer an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests. You can also visit links to local wedding portals through the Where Brides Go® Network, putting you in touch with specialists in your area.

Keeping convenience in mind, WhereBridesGo.com offers its clients the opportunity to build a Wish List, as well as a variety of purchasing and shipping methods. You can phone, fax, or mail in your order by following a few, simple steps.

When it comes to planning your wedding, WhereBridesGo.com knows the importance of accuracy and timeliness combined with only the highest quality customer service. Visit WhereBridesGo.com today and let the planning begin! www.WhereBridesGo.com Sandra Waggett (866) 515-9385

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A Unique Event by Bri

s planning begins for the big day, it never takes long before most brides realize how much time, energy, creativity, and talent it takes to plan a posh party. It could really be a full-time job.

Thankfully, for some people it is… they’re called wedding planners and every bride should have one in their corner.

ible attention to detail and unparalleled organization skills, what brides love most about working with Anette is her ‘outside of the box’ creativity.

“There’s always a new and exciting way to do things and it’s my mission to find it so your event is special and unique to you.” That creativity extends to the planning of bridal showers and destination weddings too.

With more than twenty years of experience of event planning to offer, Anette Alvarez of A Unique Event

by Bri still gets a thrill out of every event she expertly executes, whether large or small. “I’ve organized some of Miami’s biggest galas,” says Anette with pride.

“But nothing makes me happier than planning someone’s wedding. I get to help make someone’s dream come true. That’s very special.”

While Anette can be relied upon to have an incred-

Working with a wedding planner isn’t a luxury these days, for many it’s a necessity. Have neither the time nor inclination to take on the enormous task of planning your wedding? Leave it up to professionals like A Unique Event by Bri and simply sit back and enjoy.

Anette Alvarez Event Planner and Owner (786) 942-4402 www.auniqueventbybri.com www.partyconnectionmiami.com

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Invitations & Stationery

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Paper Visions Invitations & Calligraphy

very bride deserves a stress-free wedding planning experience… the key is choosing vendors that excel at eliminating worry and overcoming hassles. Topping the list of such skillful vendors is Paper Visions Invitations & Calligraphy, a turn-key solution for all your wedding stationery needs.

“Have books, will travel” is a motto you’ll often hear from Barbara Rado, owner of Paper Visions Invitations & Calligraphy. For nearly twenty years, Barbara and her dozen or so invitation books have traveled throughout the Miami area where she meets with future brides and grooms at their home or office and meticulously takes them through the process of choosing and customizing the perfect stationery for their perfect day.

The one-on-one attention she gives to each and every client has become her hallmark. “Choosing the wedding stationery involves making some big decisions; I set aside as much time as it takes to help you find and customize everything from invitations to place cards to programs,” says Barbara. “I pride myself on giving more personalized attention than you’ll ever get going to a printer.”

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Once invitations are ordered, there’s no need to start painstakingly assembling, hand addressing, and mailing each one. When you work with Paper Visions Invitations & Calligraphy, all these steps are already taken care of. Barbara addresses each envelope us-

ing a state-of-the-art calligraphy machine with results that are identical to hand calligraphy but much more affordable. And with 200 calligraphy styles and over 200,000 font colors at her fingertips, there has yet to be a request she couldn’t accommodate. Call Barbara today and at least one aspect of your wedding plans will be worry-free, guaranteed.

(305) 864-9301 www.papervisionsinvitations.com papervisions@aol.com

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These Handmade Memories

et your unique personality and taste shine with custom, handmade wedding invitations that pop with color and texture. With a flair for art and artistry, C. Aisha Thompson of These Handmade Memories personalizes each tailored collection so that no two invitation selections are alike; you won’t get that option from a book of invitations. “My invitations are unique, funky and contemporary… just like today’s bride,” says C. Aisha who’s famous for her trademark styles using vivid colors and playful contrast.

be completely customized to harmonize with your wedding theme and colors. Tailored and unique to you, These Handmade Memories will create one-ofa-kind works of art for your special day.

C. Aisha Thompson (305) 342-5314 aisha@TheseHandmadeMemories.com www.TheseHandmadeMemories.com

Each of your invitations will be assembled by hand using a combination of ribbon, raffia, burlap and high-end specialty papers. Layered and textured, these invitations are a sensory experience for your guests and foreshadow an unforgettable event to come.

Beach brides love C. Aisha’s signature ‘message in a bottle’ invitations.

These delightful invites come rolled in a small, glass bottle filled with sand and shells. Visit www.TheseHandmadeMemories.com and you’ll be amazed by what These Handmade Memories can do. Of course, all invitations can www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Wedding Paper Divas

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rom invitations to thankyou cards, your wedding stationery will reflect your unique taste and set the tone for all the events surrounding your wedding day. A leading online retailer of premium, personalized wedding stationery, Wedding Paper Divas delivers superior paper products, exclusive designs that cannot be found anywhere else online or offline, and an outstanding online ordering system that ensures your customized stationery will be in your hands more quickly and affordably than most local wedding retailers can promise.

Wedding Paper Divas prides itself on their innovative online shopping experience which features automated etiquette templates so you can quickly select the wording for your wedding invitations, then design your invitation from a vari-

ety of text and layout templates and over 50 fonts and custom colors.

Recently, Wedding Paper Divas launched its first-ever Thermography Collection printed by renowned fine stationer William Arthur, one of the world’s finest producers of luxury stationery.

These designs simulate the refined look of engraving and literally leap off the printed page.

“The addition of Thermography to our printing methods will give you access to even more beautiful and contemporary stationery products that are not only luxurious, but also economical,” said Laura Ching, VP of Merchandising at Wedding Paper Divas.

The best part… the convenience

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of online shopping doesn’t mean you’ll sacrifice service. Providing that extra personal touch, client specialists are available to answer any design or etiquette questions via phone, email, even live chat.

Visit www.weddingpaperdivas.com today and discover how much fun choosing and designing your wedding stationery can be. www.weddingpaperdivas.com (866) 594-1226

Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring While choosing an engagement ring can be an exciting experience, it can also be fairly overwhelming, especially for men with little diamond know-how. Thanks to King Jewelers, engagement ring purchases have become a seamless and enjoyable process. For nearly a century, future grooms have relied on King Jewelers for unsurpassed expertise, quality, value, and firstclass service.

“What sets us apart is that we have a true passion for teaching buyers how to choose the perfect stone, cut and setting,” says Jonathon King, fifth generation co-owner of this family business. The team at King Jewelers always begins by educating buyers on the four C’s of diamonds. They’ll give a professional recommendations based on what’s popular and what holds value, giving the client lots of product knowledge to make the best choice.

range. Your budget will dictate a lot of your choices, but thanks to a variety of stones and cuts, there is a ring to accommodate nearly any budget.

It also helps if you can take note of your girlfriend’s overall style. Is she conservative or edgy?

Think too how you may like to customize the ring such as adding baguettes to the side of the band or a cluster of diamonds around the stone. Don’t worry; they have hundreds of examples to show

you. You won’t be flying solo on this mission.

Since rings can be perfectly sized after you’ve proposed, it’s not necessary to know your girlfriend’s ring size. However, if it’s important to you, try to bring one of her current rings in with you. Everything they sell is guaranteed and you can bring back the stone within 10 days for a full refund, if need be. Not that she won’t say yes when you present her with such a spectacular ring.

When you first visit King Jewelers, it’s best to know your spending Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Our Feature Wedding Shannon and Justin Schaffer, Fort Myers

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hen Justin first met Shannon in December 2007, they both watched as his truck was hauled away for illegally parking. Neither knew that his heart would be similarly towed less than a year later when Shannon said yes to his proposal of marriage. On a warm June day in 2008, with one knee sunk into the sugary sands of Captiva Island, Justin slipped a ring on Shannon’s finger and so began the process of coordinating a whirlwind wedding.

“We set our wedding date for No-

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vember 1st 2008 which meant we had less than six months to plan it,” remembers Shannon cheerfully. “It was crazy but with the help of our mothers and my four aunts, we got it done.” Justin and Shannon were married at the Gulf Coast Church of Christ and chose the Pelican Preserve Country Club in Fort Myers for their wedding reception. “We picked the Pelican Preserve because it was so picturesque,” Shannon says. “There are lakes, ponds, fountains, and pretty bridges everywhere. It was so pretty.”

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Other than the chaos of planning her 200-guest wedding, what Shannon remembers most about her wedding day is seeing Justin’s face as she confidently strode down the aisle with her dad. At the front of the church, eight bridesmaids and seven groomsmen stood, all dressed in black and hot pink, a color scheme that made its way over to the reception where chairs were covered in black fabric and sported big hot pink bows. From the centerpieces to the boxes of truffles on the table, black and hot pink were the hues of the evening.

While Shannon remembers her day happily, she would change only one thing: “I should have used a wedding planner. It would have made my day so much less stress-

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ful.” Nevertheless, Shannon and Justin remember that their big day as the best day of their lives so far.

And like the lyrics say in Justin

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and Shannon’s wedding song, (“It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill) now they are stronger than ever, happy and free.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Photography: Picture This Downtown of Fort Myers (239) 985-0602

CiCi’s Boutique 727-823-1761

“The photographers were so professional and they listened to what was important to me. All of my pictures turned out so perfect that it was hard to decide which ones were our favorites.”

Pelican Preserve (239) 985-1707 “Vanessa at Pelican Preserve altered the menu to what we wanted. She made sure everything ran perfectly the day of our wedding! “ Eventz (239) 415-2581 “The people at Eventz were great! My bouquet was PERFECT!!! It was the ideal size and shape. They helped me deiced exactly what I wanted.”

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“The women at CiCi’s brought all of the dresses to me! Once I found my perfect gown, we all toasted with champagne in celebration of finding the perfect dress!!

For years, I will remember how these women really strive to take the stress off the bride.”

Videography: Naples Original Video Productions (239) 594-5588 “John at NOVP caught every single minute of my special day on video! My favorite moment on our DVD was when my father saw me for the first time. The look on his face was priceless and I am so glad that John and his crew were there to capture that moment.”

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Irresistible Confections (239) 425-2606 “The favor boxes were the perfect addition to the table setting!.

They were such a great gift for my guests to take home. Everyone complemented on how pretty the box was, but more importantly how great the chocolate tasted!”

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Photographers

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Amorous Photo Studio

s a bride-to-be, you’re most likely looking for a photographer who is talented, affable, creative, and affordable. With the help of Amorous Photo Studio, now you can capture your day without cutting corners or breaking the bank.

“We’re definitely one of the most flexible and affordable photo studios in town,” says Dana Lynn, Co-Owner and Senior Photographer as well as one of the Art Institute of Miami’s most talented graduates.

Dana has been shooting for more than eight years, and while she definitely has a flair for beach weddings, she and her team are willing to cater to any wedding in any South Florida location. When asked what makes her studio so special, Dana tells us that “brides just feel comfortable with me. I have the ability to make them feel calm and at ease on such an insane day.”

After attending your wedding, Dana will head back to the studio to digitally enhance and touch-up your photographs before providing you with proofs in color, black and white, and sepia. When it comes to ordering, brides can choose from a variety of sophisticated albums or can opt to receive all their shots on CD for as low as $199. Make your appointment to visit Amorous Photo Studio to flip through wedding albums and discuss your engagement and wedding day desires.

2065 NE 163rd Street N. Miami Beach, FL 33162 (305) 944-1313 www.amorousphotos.com danalynnphotos@yahoo.com 52

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Cal Landau Photography

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iring a wedding photographer is often only the first step in the process of making your wedding memories permanent. Typically, the pictures need to be outsourced to another company to be compiled into an album, book, or some other collective showpiece. If you would like to skip the extra hassle and hire a photographer who offers a truly fullservice package, then Cal Landau Photography is the perfect solution for your event.

Cal Landau is an internationally acclaimed and award-winning photographer who has had his work published in countless wedding and photojournalism publications.

Cal was an early adopter of digital photography before it became the standard, and he further demonstrated his drive to stay ahead of the curve by designing The Landau Design Group Album, which is a Fine Art album that is produced

by Kambara and sold to photographers. Cal Landau Photography

offers that sort of innovation and all-encompassing service to weddings all over the country.

“We do nearly all of the work,” says Landau. “We do not farm out the production at all. We handle everything from production to printing, and we use the best archival-quality products available.”

Producing wedding albums inhouse is part of Cal Landau Photography’s full-service approach, but they offer more than just pictures and prints.

Cal operates his photography business alongside his wife, Marty Landau, who also happens to be an award-winning hair stylist. Cal and Marty have double-teamed multiple

weddings in which they handled both the photography and hair-styling for the entire event.

Most importantly, Cal and Marty want to be more than just your one-time photographers. They are committed to forming relationships with their clients, and they love being part of the process of preserving memories artfully. You can take a look at their online galleries at www.callandau.com, and you can either call or contact them via their website to discuss your plans and their services. Cal Landau Photography looks forward to bringing their creativity, professionalism, and warmth to your most magnificent occasion. www.callandau.com (412) 956-7400

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Brett Tyler Photography

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lorida weddings are always beautiful thanks to our yearround sunshine and wide selection of venues, and it is important to hire a skilled photographer who can capture every special moment of your wedding. Brett Tyler is an award-winning, internationally recognized photographer whose experience spans nearly three decades of professional photography. Luckily for brides-to-be, Brett now focuses most of his craft on wedding photography.

quality prints to be delivered to your home. They also offer Wedding Books, which tell the story of your wedding day through pictures.

These books are handmade and printed on fine-art linen paper by Graphistudio in Italy, and they are considered to be some of the most artful wedding mementos ever produced. Brett and Cindy Tyler are digital photographers, so your pictures can be easily and professionally appropriated for all sorts of formats and purposes. Once you see the high-level quality of Brett Tyler’s wedding pictures, you will know exactly who to call for all of your future photography needs.

With past clients including Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Vera Wang, Brett is a proven name within the industry, but don’t feel intimidated by his impressive portfolio. Brett Tyler Photography is a family affair. Brett’s second photographer and business partner is his wife, Cindy, and they manage to raise three wonderful children while sharing their art with families all over Florida.

Brett Tyler Photography to shoot your wedding, you are signing up for a full package. The Tyler’s see wedding photography as an integral part of the planning process, and they make every client feel comfortable by working with them every step of the way.

“We take care of our clients,” says Brett, “and we make sure we nurture them through the whole creative process.” When you enlist

After your wedding has concluded, you and your friends and family can visit Brett Tyler’s website at www.bretttyler.com to order high-

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Be sure to look at his website to view an extensive gallery as well as a detailed list of his services. If you don’t have time to view the website online right now, then you can take a look at the cover of this issue for a sample of Brett’s work. The fabulous cover photo is courtesy of Brett Tyler! www.bretttyler.com (954) 385-5666

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Elegant Occasions

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asy, seamless, worry-free… just a few words to describe how every bride hopes their wedding day will turn out. So, when it comes to choosing your photographer, videographer and entertainment, why not go with South Florida’s Masters of simplicity and ease? For more than two decades, Elegant Occasions has wowed brides with a trio of services delivered with an uncompromised and unparalleled level of quality and integrity, translating into thousands of brides who have peacefully enjoyed their day and loved how all their special moments were captured forever.

a multitude of photo albums and preview a variety of wedding videos; you’ll find a broad range of styles to cater to every bride’s likes and dislikes. From artsy

Working with a company that provides photography, videography and entertainers all under one roof offers a variety of advantages for brides besides the obvious convenience factor. With all three elements in-house, Elegant Occasions is able to control as many of the steps in the process as possible, meaning all staff adheres to consistent standards, participates in identical training, and all go through the same certification process resulting in an experience that’s difficult to match. Best of all, your event team will be working together to ensure that every special moment of your wedding day is flawlessly executed and captured. The DJs, musicians and entertainers on staff will provide the entertainment for your special day that will be remembered by your guests for years to come.

With over 300 events each year, it’s easy to see that Elegant Occasions is definitely the local favorite, and the Knot.com would agree. Elegant Occasions is the only company in the United States to win Best of the Knot in all three categories.

Elegant Occasions understands that these are tough times, which is why they’ve recently launched a new in-house financing option to help brides have their perfect wedding. With options as low as 0%, no bank approval is needed to spread your payments out over the months following your wedding day. The wedding of your dreams is now a reality.

Take a trip over to their main office to flip through 56

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and edgy to classic and traditional, Elegant Occasions is committed to ensuring that you get exactly what you’re hoping for and more. Thanks to their in-house photo and video editing studio, you can be assured great quality every step of the way. www.eoep.com 6435 W Commercial Blvd Tamarac, FL 33319 (954) 722-2223

Jason Diaz Photography

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hen looking for a photographer to document and preserve the story of your wedding day, it is always a safe bet to go with an expert in the field. Jason Diaz has been doing wedding photography since 1964, and he has been committed to improving and mastering his craft ever since he first got into the business.

In order to keep in step with all of the newest techniques and trends in wedding photography, Jason regularly attends seminars

and conventions to hone his skills. When you hire Jason Diaz Photography for your event, you will be impressed by his balanced style. By mixing traditional and candid pictures with a touch of photojournalism, Jason Diaz captures the story of your big day elegantly from every angle; no detail goes undocumented.

Jason Diaz Photography is currently based out of Miami, where weddings often take place in venues unlike anywhere else. “There are some beautiful places in Miami that you can’t find anywhere else,” says Diaz. “And the beautiful scenery helps with our photography.”

To complement his commitment to workmanship and high-quality shooting techniques, Jason Diaz is also a master computer artist. You can rest easy knowing that Jason will personally retouch and optimize all of your wedding photos himself, and then you can have him compile them all into an elegantly designed album.

You can visit the Jason Diaz Photography website at www.jasondiazphotography.com to take a look at all of their services, and when you are ready to discuss photography plans, you can call to set up an appointment for a private consultation. www.jasondiazphotography.com (305) 262-7766

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Jonathan Scott Photography

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hoosing the right wedding photographer is important, mainly because he or she will be responsible for telling the story of your big day through elegantly framed snapshots of the festivities. Jonathan Scott has been providing his unique “intuitive” and “personalitydriven” style of photojournalistic photography to weddings for the past six years, and his pictures capture the rhythm and melody of a bride’s best day by allowing the events of the day to unfold naturally.

“A lot of wedding photographers were trained as portrait photographers,” says Jonathan. “I trained as a photojournalist. I was trained to shoot live-action events, capturing them without set-up. My style allows me to define the moment.”

Weddings Pick” in the photographer category by The Knot Magazine readers.

After capturing the love and magic of your wedding day, Jonathan will work closely with you to design an album that suits your tastes and style. If you’re interested in Jonathan Scott’s naturally artistic and unobtrusive approach to wedding photography, you can visit his website at www.jspstudio.com. There, you can read more about their services and start getting ideas for how you want your special day to be remembered. www.jspstudio.com (561) 750-7006

Having lived in Florida for 25 years, Jonathan Scott was originally a financial advisor for 15 years before deciding to finally pursue his true passion: photography. Since making that decision, Jonathan has nurtured and perfected his craft. In 2007, Jonathan Scott Photography was chosen as “The Knot Best of 58

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MagicalPhotos.com

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ho better to make you feel (and look) like a celebrity on your wedding day than Mitchell Zachs of Magical Photos, photographer of the stars.

Since 1981, Mitchell has been mastering the art of what he’s dubbed emotion photography. Rather than a glitzy ‘photo shoot’ look, Mitchell aims to capture every loving

moment on your wedding day from heartfelt tears and belly laughs to tender kisses and loving hugs.

very reliable and I always aim to under-promise and over-deliver.”

In most cases, brides will receive their ‘modern day negatives’ on picture CDs by the time they get back from their honeymoon. And Mitchell is more than happy to provide multiple CD copies to share with friends and family as well for free. With the latest and greatest digital software at his fingertips, Mitchell’s finished product is evidence of why he receives so much repeat and referral business. Fun loving and playful, talented and perceptive, Mitchell will capture the best moments of your day and immortalize them forever.

“My gift is that I have a real knack for capturing love on film,” Mitchell proudly confesses. “The most wonderful thing about photographing weddings is that there is so much love between people. I float through the day capturing every loving gesture I can see.”

Mitchell Zachs (786) 423-5433 www.MagicalPhotos.com mzachs@MagicalPhotos.com

While Mitchell has traveled all throughout the US as a photographer, he calls South Florida home and it’s the place where most of his bridal clients choose to tie the knot. On the other hand, Mitchell will gladly travel to destination weddings for brides that don’t want to take a chance with a ‘resort photographer’.

“I think the best thing about my service is that I am www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Picture This & Red Door Studio

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ight clubs and spa visits for bachelorette parties are so last year; just like her wedding day, today’s bride wants her special night out with the girls to be unique and distinctive. That’s why Red Door Boudoir Parties have become such a sensation, inviting brides and their closest group of up to ten married or engaged friends to partake in an evening of fun and sexy ‘hot momma’ pictures.

“Picture This & RED DOOR Studios offers the ultimate girl’s night out,” says co-owner Michelle Weaver. “We provide hors d’oeuvres and wine, great mood music and lighting while bridesmaids beautify the bride and outfit her in elegant lingerie

before she steps behind the red door for her private, sexy photo shoot. A few weeks later, she returns to select the photos that will grace the pages of her private boudoir book or box she’ll present to her husband-to-be.”

Of course, bridesmaids are also welcome to take a turn behind the red door to create their own boudoir books. “The best part of this experience is that the women who participate leave with a new-found sense of freedom, liberation, and empowerment,” Michelle confesses.

For those brides who may be a little too shy to enjoy a Boudoir Party, Picture This & RED DOOR Studios offers private mini-sessions with coowner and photographer Marie Kamp. “My sister, Marie, and I started Red Door because we wanted to do something that celebrated the sexy side of marriage.

Our photographs are sensual yet very tasteful.” Packages for this ‘No Boys Allowed” evening starts at $250.

2070 McGregor Blvd #5 Fort Myers FL 33901 (239) 985-0602 www.reddoor.me www.picturethisdowntown.com

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Sean Michael Photography

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our wedding photography shouldn’t merely capture faces and poses; great photography captures personality and emotions that leap off the page and bring you back to your wedding day for years to come. Few photographers understand this, the way Sean Michael does. Flip through his online wedding gallery and you’ll be blown away by his talent for immortalizing these beautiful occasions with unique angles and viewpoints that produce photos that look more like they belong in the pages of Vogue than in a wedding

album.

For more than seven years, Sean has sharpened his talent for photo journalistic shots, a talent that has him very much in demand across South Florida, South Carolina and beyond. He’s lost count of how many weddings he’s shot but judging from the stellar feedback in the ‘RAVE’ section of his website; he’s left a lot of happy brides in his wake.

“Brides tell me all the time that I’m a very calming influence on a very crazy day,” Sean confesses gleefully. “I’m great at helping people relax and have fun.”

And it shows; his photos exude warmth and joy without even a hint of anxiety. To make the wedding even less stressful, Sean is now offering $50 off any of his packages as well as an easy payment schedule option that allows brides to make smaller payments in advance.

Easy to work with, affordable, and incredibly gifted, Sean Michael will have your proofs back to you within two to three weeks of your wedding day. Take a look at his exceptional work at www.SeanMichaelPhoto.com today.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Sean Michael (877) 476-7468 or (772) 919-5428 www.seanmichaelphoto.com

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Upscale Photo

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loriously happy and flawlessly beautiful… just a few ways to describe how you’ll feel on your wedding day.

Don’t chance these once-in-a-lifetime moments to just any photographer. Galina Vitols of Upscale Photo puts more than twenty years of experience behind her lens.

With a Master’s degree in Fashion Design and the thumbs up from the

New York Institute of Photography, Galina’s brings skill and artistry to every wedding she eagerly shoots.

“Brides absolutely love my shooting style because it’s candid and almost never posed,” Galina confesses with a smile. “Weddings in South Florida offer some of the best location backdrops in the country. My job is the make the bride and groom look just as stunning as their surroundings.” Check out her bridal shots at Vizcaya and you’ll see exactly what we mean.

Preview Galina’s online gallery

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and it’s easy to see why she’s so in demand. Natural and artistic wedding photos have been a passion that has earned her a place as one of South Florida’s most soughtafter wedding photographers. Her Stunning images and artful masterpieces have earned her a place in the hearts of brides all over the country.

Galina Vitols, Artist and Photographer (305) 331-0230 info@upscalephoto.com www.upscalephoto.com

Millenium Limo

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resentation is paramount in South Florida weddings, and nothing makes an entrance quite like rolling up to your event in a long, elegant ride. Millenium Limo has quickly become a premier limo service in Florida, and from its inception, Millenium has focused on innovation in their field.

Millenium Limo offers a wide assortment of classy vehicles for your event, ranging from stretch Hummers and Bentleys to party buses and Escalades. Arnaldo P. Ricciulli, the company’s owner, asserts that they place importance on class, affordability, excitement, and safety. Keeping in line with their emphasis on innovation, Millenium believes that limos should be able to be fun for the whole family. They

offer limos that include such luxuries as gaming systems, karaoke, flat-screen televisions, poker tables, wet bars, and slot machines.

Millenium’s unique attention to service earned them a nomination for Most Improved Customer Service for 2008 in the state of Florida.

If you would like to make one of Millenium’s rides your wedding carriage, start by looking through their gallery at www.millenium-

Photo by Jason Diaz Photography

limo.com. Once you’ve picked out your favorite car, give Millenium a call to learn more about their options and services.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

www.milleniumlimo.com (800) 808-2062

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Decorate Your Space

Soirée Event Rentals

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h, the endless details of planning a wedding. Wouldn’t you love to hand over a dozen or so to a trusty professional?

Thanks to Soirée Event Rentals, lightening your load and breathing a sigh of relief just became much easier. From beaches to bistros, Soirée has you covered with all your necessary rental items at any location in South Florida…. even in the Florida Keys.

While most rental companies are sure to offer tables, chairs, linens and silverware, Soirée offers a myriad of stylish lounge pieces and interesting accent items as well. Round plates are fine, but why not choose their square plates to add a chic feel to your event. They’ll deliver and set-up, working seamlessly with your caterer to ensure that every aspect of your event is perfect.

One service of Soirée’s that brides absolutely love is the mock set-ups they’ll do ahead of time at your wedding location. These trial sessions allow brides to see first-hand how their chosen colors and décor will look in their wedding setting.

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Many brides need to stick to a tight budget these days, but Soirée believes that great weddings are still possible and commit to working with brides to find the most economical way to achieve their desires. Known for reliability and service, Soirée Event Rentals is the best choice for today’s busy bride.

(305) 691-9590 info@Soireerentals.com www.Soireerentals.com

Floral Designs by Yamir

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lowers breathe life into weddings and add a simple beauty that’s matched only by the bride herself. For more than twenty years, Floral Designs by Yamir has specialized in adding floral and décor accents to extravagant affairs and simple beach weddings across South Florida.

“I baby my brides,” says Yamir.

“I work one-on-one with each special gal to make sure she gets exactly what she wants.” And that includes catering to any and every budget. “The great thing about flowers is that you can create a very pretty event with only a small amount of flowers.” These days, Yamir finds that most modern

brides are opting for minimalist décor with simple centerpieces blended with flickering candles.

Contemporary brides are also asking for tulips and orchids, flowers which Yamir makes sure to keep well stocked.

Beyond flowers, Yamir also provides elegant candelabras, ten different styles of gazebos and chuppahs, as well as the largest selection of aisle runners in South Florida from 25 to 300 feet long and six feet wide. And if you’re hoping to request her famous twinkling winter wonderland trees, you’re best to reserve soon; they book up fast.

Beach weddings are Yamir’s specialty. Using bamboo, gauzy draping, candles, and cylinders filled with sea shells lining the aisle, Yamir can turn any beach into a tropical paradise.

At Yamir’s cozy showroom and ample warehouse, brides begin the pleasurable task of planning their dream wedding. Make flowers and décor the easiest part of your undertaking by working with Yamir.

“No matter what your budget or taste, I’m sure we can come up with something you’ll like.”

www.SouthBeachBride.com

(305) 818-2939 www.floraldesignsbyyamir.com

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Balloon Affairs

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hen it comes to parties, nothing epitomizes celebrations like balloons.

These international symbols of revelry complement every event under the sun from sophisticated affairs to lighthearted gatherings. When the balloon business first emerged more than thirty years ago, there was just one lone pioneer serving the South Florida area. And while competition may have heated up through the years, there still remains one master and that is Emilie Little of Balloon Affairs.

“I started in the balloon business 27 years ago,” Emilie proudly admits. “And I’ve done every sort

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of balloon arrangement you can imagine.” From elegant archways to festive balloon drops, Balloon Affairs has left its mark on more than a thousand weddings.

There really is no limit to what Emilie can create with balloons.

She’s done palm trees, canopies, columns, centerpieces, and the list goes on and on. Her arrangements have decorated sophisticated country clubs, elegant yachts, and chic nightclubs. And with thousands of colors at her fingertips, Emilie’s arrangements harmonize with any color scheme and any theme.

Tailored to suit your special day

South Beach Bride

with just the right ribbons and ensembles, these delightful arrangements can be employed throughout your event or in just a few key spots such as your gift table. From ostentatious arrangements to small bouquets, balloons from Balloon Affairs bring effervescence and joie de vivre to your wedding in so many ways.

Emilie Little (561) 734-4921

Sophie’s Keepsakes

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magine the utter convenience and pleasure of online shopping for absolutely every gift you need for your wedding including favors and bridal party gifts. With over 2,000 items at the touch of a mouse, Sophie’s Keepsakes is making gift shopping the easiest part of your wedding planning experience.

Begin by selecting the perfect wedding favor from hundreds of delightful options such as their famed Martini Glass gel candle, a miniature martini glass with one little “olive” bobbing delicately in the center. Regardless of your theme, Sophie’s Keepsakes is guaranteed to have the ideal little gift for your guests.

Has searching for that ‘just right’ bridal party gift got you stumped?

You’ll love Sophie’s selection of exclusive gifts that express your gratitude in fun and funky ways.

You’ll find toiletry bags, friendship bracelets, laptop bags, tote bags, and travel mugs… all individually

monogrammed for each special person in your party.

Sophie’s Keepsakes also stocks a bevy of fabulous wedding accessories that add a little touch of elegance and originality to every aspect of your day.

Beach brides love Sophie’s Beach Unity Candle & Tapers Set as well as the Beach Ring Pillow featuring Swarovski crystals, glass pearls, a satin bow and real Starfish.

“What sets us apart is not only our fabulous selection, but also our exceptional customer service,” asserts Vanessa Rocha, owner of Sophie’s Keepsakes. “We work with our brides every step of the way from choosing the items to customizing to assembly and delivery.

We never leave their side.”

The best part… this Miamibased online retailer allows brides to peruse their options, shop, and customize 24 hours a day from the comfort of their homes.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Vanessa Rocha (305) 527-3289 www.sophieskeepsakes.com

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South Florida White Doves

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egend has it that if you see a pair of white doves on your wedding day; your marriage will last forever. South Florida White Doves is the area expert when it comes to orchestrating wedding dove releases with either a pair or a flock of these snow-white love birds. On the steps of the church or on the sugary sands of the beach, the doves present a picture-perfect photo opportunity.

your groom kisses his bride. Herbie will also provide you with a lovely poem about the dove’s release for your minister or member of your wedding party to read.

“After their release, all the doves gracefully fly back home to Herbie’s house where they are well fed and cared for. ”

Like the commitment you’ll make on your momentous day, doves mate for a lifetime. Symbolizing love, hope, peace and fidelity, the releasing of white doves after you’ve both said “I do” will be a breathtaking moment you’ll remember for a lifetime.

“Doves make that perfect moment that much more memorable and romantic,” says owner and handler Herbie Tomas. Herbie will either delicately hand a pair of doves to the happy couple or he’ll remotely release the dove’s basket so they’ll burst into the sky just as

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Doves are healthy and are never harmed in their service. After their release, all the doves gracefully fly back home to Herbie’s house where they are well fed and cared for.

Herbie Tomas (305) 778-2232 herbietomas@comcast.net www.southfloridawhitedoves.com

Uplyte & whiteSPACE

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Ask any seasoned event planner, production guru or photographer what is the single-most important element in delivering a memorable and alluring event environment, and unanimously they will agree that lighting makes or breaks an event and can also break the bank.”

This expert counsel comes from Alexandra Agostini, owner of UPLYTE and an expert in the field of creative, quality lighting solutions for your wedding day.

While most brides have traditionally considered event lighting to be an unattainable extravagance reserved merely for the affluent, these days lighting from LED’s and pin spots to monograms and gobos have become a lot more affordable than one might think. Starting at just $499, UPLYTE provides a luxurious service that everyone can afford.

This chic and affordable venue just might be your ideal spot to tie the knot and celebrate the night away.

Alexandra Agostini (954) 926-5840 alex@uplyte.com www.uplyte.com

“Lighting doesn’t have to be expensive but it definitely should look expensive,” Alexandra explains. “Our unique, custom lighting system delivers the air and mood of pricey lighting at a fraction of the cost.”

With 12+ years of A-list celebrity and highend corporate event experience and expertise, UPLYTE, has been revolutionizing the event lighting industry and creating events that take your breath away.

Alexandra is also pleased to announce the opening of Broward County’s first NYC loftstyle space, an event venue she has dubbed ‘whiteSPACE’. www.SouthBeachBride.com

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The Wedding Flower Designs

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rom elegant and contemporary to artful and funky, options for wedding décor are endless. These days, the lines between floral design and art are often crossed and the result is unforgettable floral accents that will take your breath away. For over a decade, Wedding Flower Designs has been creating floral designs that are leaving brides and their guests absolutely awestruck. Peruse their online gallery and you’ll immediately begin to see how gorgeous your event could be.

“Our mission is to help our clients discover their vision and style, while promoting a passion for floral art in an exciting atmosphere inspired by nature,” explains co-owner Iyanu Quiroga. “Our creativity and attention to detail allow us to create and produce glamorous weddings and spectacular themed events.”

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When you imagine what floral design entails, think far beyond basic centerpieces and bouquets.

Wedding Flower Designs will infuse every aspect of your event with floral decadence including your aisle, archway, and cake. No matter your budget, Iyanu and Marisela will always find creative, budget-conscious solutions.

Your first step is to meet with Iyanu and Marisela and begin flipping through hundreds of examples of the masterpieces they’ve created. Then, let them weave their magic through your event and add the distinctive beauty that every wedding deserves.

Iyanu Quiroga www.theweddingflowerdesigns.com (954) 240 7405

Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

Candy Bars

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aving a fabulous bar at your wedding reception is nothing new. But what about one stocked not with liquor but instead with scrumptious treats that guests of all ages can enjoy?

Dessert bars are an exciting way to get your guests out of their chairs and interacting with one another.

They can fill candy bags, watch as bananas foster are flambéed, or decorate their own cupcakes.

Other options are creating their own candy apples, choosing sweet fillings for crepes, or dipping luscious strawberries in molten chocolate and other toppings. Whatever you choose should say something about you two as a couple. The bar needs to be focused around the bride and groom. Great ideas

start by thinking about your shared stories and favorite desserts. If one of your best-loved memories is the time he sweetly but unsuccessfully attempted to bake you a birthday cake, then miniature devil’s food cakes that guests can personally decorate could strike the right note.

If you share a love for travel, you may want to serve a popular dessert from a favorite destination, whether it’s key lime pie or cotton candy. Make sure to write a fun description of why you chose your particular dessert and place it in a small frame on the table - knowing the story is sure to increase your guest’s enjoyment. Whatever you decide, remember to have fun! The greatest thing about dessert bars is their ability to get guests laughing

and mingling, so be sure to have a good time planning this part of your wedding.

A “candy bar” - a dessert bar offering a wide assortment of bitesize sweets - is a hot trend because it allows couples to be imaginative and eclectic. One couple might crave a retro version with old-fashioned hard candies, while another may want a couture truffle bar complete with chocolate liqueur cordials. Follow your sweet tooth to come up with the candy bar of your dreams, and don’t forget to think about presentation - greatlooking vintage glass jars and metal scoops add lots of charm, and boxes or bags tempt guests to pack a little something for that trip home.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Green Weddings

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our wedding is not about how much money you spend or how big it is—it’s about how you envision your dreams, beliefs and ¬values. More and more brides who value the health of our planet are choosing to express themselves by making sustainable wedding choices—seeking out local and organic food, dresses made with organic fabrics, flowers that are seasonal, and more. And with 2.5 million weddings in the U.S. each year, if each bride made just one green choice, it would make a big difference. In this article, you’ll find lots of ideas for a greener wedding. Pick what works for you—and feel good about it!

Green Attire One way to reduce your wedding’s burden on the planet is by avoiding unnecessary one-time purchases. Rather than specifying a particular bridesmaid dress, “give them a color palette and let them pick a dress they’ll want to wear again. If you, the bride, want a cou-

ture gown, look for samples or even a previously worn dress. Another option is buying a ¬vintage dress and having a talented seamstress personalize it. And if you buy new, there are lots of amazing designers working with sustainable fabrics like hemp and organic cotton. After the ¬wedding, think about donating your dress rather than preserving it in a closet or cold storage. While that may seem a shocking idea to some, this is a way to recycle.

some spots and other imperfections—that’s natural. On the other hand, they do tend to last longer.

You may want to look at flower alternatives, such as paper and ¬fabric flowers, or building centerpieces around reusable or recycled components instead—think evergreen topiaries or other live plants, river stones, or fruit in vintage containers, for example.

Green Flowers

Did you know that the average American wedding produces 800 pounds of garbage? Brides should think about the recyclable wedding and see how many things from your wedding can be used again.

If you’re buying fabric for tables or other decor, think about colors and patterns you can use in your home later, refashioned as curtains or pillowcases, for example. The three “R’s”-Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, should always be considered. Rentals are also, of course, a form of recycling—the big issue is ensuring that the rental provider cleans linens and other items in a sustainable way after the event.

Instead of imported blooms, substitute local, seasonal flowers whenever possible. Choosing a South Florida wedding, means there are likely to be tons of seasonal blooms you can use that are grown within a few miles of your wedding venue. Talk to your florist about what you can get locally, and be flexible—conditions may require some last-minute substitutions. And be aware that if you go with organic flowers, there may be

Green Decor

Green Cuisine

Photo by Jonathan Scott Photography

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More and more wedding caterers are using fresh, local ingredients in the food they prepare. And it’s not just a question of reducing environmental impact, but of maximizing flavor. ¬Local food simply tastes fresher and looks nicer than items that have made a long journey to the kitchen and the table. When it

comes to selecting a caterer and a menu, ask about relationships with ¬local farmers and the sourcing of ingredients. As with your ¬florist, give your caterer some leeway to make adjustments—¬precise harvest times can be hard to predict.

Think not only about what you’re serving, but also about how much you’re serving. Having too much is wasteful—and expensive. Go heavy on less-costly appetizers and serve a ¬lighter dinner. And your main course doesn’t have to include beef—¬free-range chicken is a great alternative—or not any meat at all. Also consider what you’re ¬serving food on—there are more options than ever in plates, cups, and cutlery made of renewable and biodegradable materials. And don’t forget one of the most significant choices you can make: skipping the bottled water and opting for pitchers instead.

Green Cakes Sustainable choices at your dessert table can have an outsize impact. In addition to the environmental considerations, the way that items like sugar, chocolate, and ¬coffee are produced can have farreaching consequences for cultures and economies around the world.

Talk with your caterer about ¬serving Fair Trade coffee, a responsible move that really makes a statement.

Look for a baker who specializes in organic or “green” ¬wedding cakes—many local markets have at least a few. If you can’t find one in your area, talk with cake makers you like to see if they can use Fair Trade chocolate and organic sugar, eggs, and flour in your cake.

These are simple substitutions that shouldn’t cost much more. And re-

Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

member that for beauty and ¬flavor, few things can compare with fresh fruit and berries in ¬season—use them abundantly!

want to purchase carbon offsets from ¬providers like Brighter Planet or Native Energy, which help to support the development of sustainable energy projects.

Some Tips for a Greener Wedding

Having the ceremony and reception in the same place also helps reduce emissions, cutting the total car trips for guests and vendors.

If that’s not an option, renting an electric bus to shuttle people between sites reduces hassles for your guests as well as polluting fumes.

In this day and age, there is really no need to bulk up an invitation with lots of information you could just as easily ¬convey online. Save the paper and include ¬directions, hotel information, and the like on your wedding website instead, where it’s more accessible. For the invitation itself, recycled paper, cotton, and soy ink are all options that have an environ¬mental impact.

Location, location, location.

Choosing a venue that’s convenient for a majority of your guests is one of the biggest ways you can reduce your wedding’s overall carbon footprint.

If there’s no way to get around long-¬distance travel, consider setting up a carpooling section on your wedding ¬website to help coordinate rides. You might also

Informing your guests about the green ¬elements of your wedding is a great way to raise awareness of the issues. Whether it’s a little note in your wedding program or a recycled paper ¬symbol on your invitations, there are lots of opportunities to show that a wedding can be eco-friendly and elegant at the same time.

Think beyond the wedding, too.

Instead of, or in addition to, a traditional gift ¬registry, you could set up an “experience” registry— where guests can contribute to a honeymoon travel fund, for example—or even a charity registry.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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DJ’s & Music

Jose Mejia

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very bride wants her first dance with her new husband to look elegant and professional, so wouldn’t it be great to have a former ViceWorld Salsa and Ballroom Champion choreograph it for you? Jose Mejia is a Miami-based choreographer with seven years of dance training who has represented the United States in competitions worldwide. Fortunately for South Florida brides, Jose wants to lend his renowned talents to your wedding-day waltz.

The first dance is a classic tradition for newlyweds, and Jose Mejia can help you and your husband-to-be look like you have been Ballroom dancing for years.

That is not to say that Ballroom is Jose’s only style.

“A lot of brides in South Florida like utilizing a dance that matches the scene of their wedding,” Jose says. “For waterfront or beach weddings, that usually

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means doing a dance that is more sensual. In this case, the Tango is very popular.”

Jose also offers private dancing lessons for any event or occasion, but he has been teaching engaged couples how to impress their wedding guests with his expertly choreographed dances for the last three years. Most importantly, Jose wants to make sure that you are having fun while you learn.

“I love what I do,” says Jose. “It makes a lot of people’s dreams come true, as far as their wedding plans are concerned.” You can call Jose at (305) 244-4626 to find out more about his services and take the first step towards a more beautiful dance at your wedding.

305-244-4626 www.myspace.com/choreographer_josemejia

Monster Sound Productions

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killer sound system can make or break a wedding reception’s musical impact, and Monster Sound Productions specializes in providing top-notch audio and visual equipment for your event.

Monster Sound Productions is based in South Florida & services the entire state of Florida. Whether you need an audio setup for a bachelor or bachelorette party, wedding ceremony, or wedding reception, Monster Sound has equipment for every event.

However, the sound system alone won’t do you any good without some music to go with it. Whether you are using a live band or a DJ for your big day, Monster Sound has you covered there as well. Their Wedding Packages includes a full DJ, Audio and intelligent-lighting along with an MC to host your event.

If you want your wedding reception to be a feast for the eyes and ears, then you should check out Monster Sound’s website at www.monstersoundpro.com.

Their website features an elegant gallery of their work and a full list of their services.

Alex Valcarcel monstersoundpro.com (305) 613-7780

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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MB Entertainment

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kimp on décor, cut back on flowers, but for heaven’s sake, hire only the best when it comes to the music and entertainment for your wedding. While few guests will remember the salad you served or the flavor of your cake, everyone is sure to remember your DJ and emcee. For events that are as unique as you are, MB Entertainment, a mobile DJ and Entertainment Company, will adhere to your wishes, and allow you to create your custom playlist from the ceremony to the cocktail hour to the reception. Do you have to pick every song? No, the knowledgeable staff at MB Entertainment will help you with the rest.

Winner of the 2009 Bride’s Choice Award, MB Entertainment is beloved for the careful customization and personalization that’s gone into each and every wedding they’ve done over the last fifteen years. “My arms are wide open to picky brides who have very specific likes and dislikes.” “Some people call these women Bridezillas; I think the public has mislabeled these women. I find these women amazing, with unique ideas and awesome insight on what they want their day to be” says owner Mike Berrios. With a huge library of both music and videos at his fingertips, Mike assures his brides that the Chicken Dance and Macarena will not be heard on their special night.

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personalization page. Anytime you wish, you can logon and tailor your event by adding songs to your playlist and do not play list, adjusting your timelines, and adding special details about your wedding party.

With a few clicks of your mouse and taps on your keyboard, your event will be designed right before your eyes and all the information will immediately be passed on to your team at MB Entertainment.

“We are a no-cheese entertainment company,” says Mike with a chuckle. “We will control the flow of the entire evening, so our clients can enjoy their, guests and their special day.” “Our weddings are fun but also very elegant and tasteful.” For a memorable event that your guests will be talking about for years, hire a company that truly prioritizes your preferences and aims to let your personality shine, not theirs.

Michael Berrios (954) 316-2149 www.mbentdjs.com

Photo by Magical Photos

South Beach Bride

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Paramount Ballroom

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ho knows… maybe it’s the wild popularity of the television show Dancing with the Stars, but today’s couples seem to take their wedding dance much more seriously than ever before. And so they should; the first wedding dance as a married couple is a significant wedding ritual and one that’s witnessed by hundreds of onlookers. Why not

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make it perfect?

Palm Beach.

Couples that concur are now realizing just how easy and enjoyable it is to learn some basic dance steps that create a polished, memorable moment. “There is just no need for the dreaded eighth grade sway when learning a few graceful steps is so effortless,” says Alec Lazo, owner of Paramount Ballroom in

With more than 30 years in the business including 18 years of competition on the pro circuit, Alec has taught hundreds of couples everything from basic steps to fully choreographed performances that leave their wedding guests in awe.

Although he could be traveling the world as a coach or judge, he stays

South Beach Bride

in South Florida where he fuels his true passion for working with beginners and wedding couples.

Paramount Ballroom offers several wedding dance packages (including an introductory package of five lessons for just $99) that promise to be painless. In fact, Paramount Ballroom’s couples love their lessons and use them as a way to escape the wedding planning and truly connect before their big day. Offering every style of dance from Salsa to Swing, the expert instructors at Paramount Ballroom will help you create a smooth and polished performance for not just you and your groom but for your entire wedding party, if you choose.

“Your first dance together will be remembered for a lifetime,” says Alec and few would argue

with him. Paramount Ballroom is a studio that’s setting a new standard in their field. With bubbling fountains and twinkling chandeliers, the studio is not only a beautiful place to learn to dance, it’s also a tranquil

locale to unwind in.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

211 Royal Poinciana Way Palm Beach, FL 33480 (561) 832-2141 www.paramountballroom.com paramountdance@aol.com

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Simone Vitale Band

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othing livens up a wedding like a live band, and the Simone Vitale Band knows that getting everyone involved in the music is the key to a stylish, successful reception. The Michigan-based Simone Vitale Band is a 15piece band comprised of some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the business.

When the band does a wedding event, they perform lively, contemporary music spanning several genres and decades of hits. Don’t be surprised to hear current chart-toppers by the likes of Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera covered in their unique style. Their song selection is so broad and varied that they generally have clients tell them what not to play.

Simone Vitale, the band’s founder, says that they really go all-out to make sure that everything is highenergy and fun, playing songs that suit the crowd and occasion. The Simone Vitale Band makes it a priority to stay abreast of all the newest wedding and music trends, and they offer some of the most personable service one can find. If requested, Simone Vitale will meet with the bride in person to prepare for the festivities, rather than simply communicating over the phone.

The Simone Vitale Band plays anywhere in the country, and their website can be found at www.simonevitale.com. You can find more about their services there, and then you can call them directly to take the first step towards a more interactive, musical wedding.

Simone Vitale promises that his band will do everything possible to make sure that you have the best time, because they only have one chance to make your wedding a truly memorable event.

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Seaside Strings

usic – it is the final layer of detail that makes your wedding’s big moments even more memorable. And when you choose live musicians, it makes those moments that much more precious. Seaside Strings has been providing live music at weddings in Southwest Florida since 2003.

They offer a myriad of qualities that make them unique, starting with versatility. In these tough economic times, brides need a variety of options to suit their budgets.

Seaside Strings offers a wide selection of ensembles, from quartets to trios to soloists.

Seaside Strings is also very flexible and can perform anywhere from the church to the beach. Dur-

ing your initial consultation with Vivian Aiello, owner of Seaside Strings, you’ll choose from a vast repertoire of music. They’ll perform all the traditional classics as well as many modern love songs like Fergie’s “Finally” and “Kissing You” by Desiree. Have a special request? Vivian and her team of skillful musicians would love to arrange your special song for you.

The combination of violin, viola, cello, and flute will be heavenly.

After 25 years of performing and teaching music, Vivian has settled into her dream job on Florida’s Southwest coast. “I love what I do,” exclaims Vivian. “It’s just so wonderful adding our special touch to such an exceptional occasion.”

Vivian works with four other extraordinary musicians who have been playing together for more than five years. Having an established group at your ceremony and reception makes a huge difference since they’ll be practiced in timing the music perfectly to momentous moments like your walk down the aisle and your first dance. Get started by visiting www.SeasideStrings.net and listening to some musical samples. You can also request a sample CD which will include the most popular wedding favorites you’ll most likely desire for your wedding day.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Vivian Aiello www.SeasideStrings.net (239) 348-7314

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Romantic Strings Harp & Violin

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achelbel’s Canon in D, Schubert’s Ava Maria, and Mendelssohn’s Wedding March… just a few classics that traditionally accompany brides as they gracefully and elatedly make their debut down the aisle. While recordings of such songs are certainly suitable for the occasion, nothing compares to having these notes played by skillful musicians on your wedding day.

Ana Maria Bolivar and Fidel Garcia of Romantic Strings Harp & Violin have played at hundreds of weddings since they started their business ten years ago. A husband and wife team, Ana Maria and Fidel play a variety of musical styles from classical to pop to Latin at ceremonies, cocktail hours, and wedding receptions throughout South Florida.

At first thought, brides often think that hiring live musicians is a splurge beyond the reach of most wed-

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ding budgets. However, rates are actually very reasonable and Ana Maria invites you to call to discuss the affordable ways she and Fidel can infuse your event with memorable instrumental moments.

“We just love playing at weddings, especially the ceremonies. We feel so honored to be providing the music during such a significant milestone in your life.”

Few events in your life will compare to your walk down the aisle towards your soon-to-be husband; let Romantic Strings Harp & Violin make this moment even more perfect and unforgettable than it already will be.

Ana Maria (786) 253-2041 or (305) 386-5172

Choosing Your Wedding Cake

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nce you decide to get married your life becomes filled with an endless list of things to do. And one of those things is choosing the perfect wedding cake. A wedding cake is an edible work of art and the centerpiece of any wedding reception. Intended for the enjoyment of your guests, your wedding cake is a perfect reflection of your unique style, taste and personality. A beautiful cake makes a wonderful first impression, but it is the flavor and quality that your guests will remember for years to come.

Many couples wait until all the other planning is completed before they start thinking about the cake. But the longer you wait, the harder it will be to find a really good cake decorator or designer. Many book months to a year in advance. Many specialty cake decorators limit the number of wedding cakes they do each week, while bakeries have a larger staff and can do a larger quantity of cakes. So start searching for the perfect cake decorator well in advance of your wedding date.

to go in and see their design and skill levels of the decorators. Ask prospective cake artists if samples of the cake flavors will be available for you to taste when you visit. Don’t be surprised when your

decorator asks you for a substantial deposit that may be up to 50 percent of the total price to reserve the date for you. The remainder to be paid 2 weeks to 3 months before your wedding date. This protects

Please consider that Wednesday through Saturday are very hectic for baking, decorating and delivering weekend wedding cakes, so please call well ahead of your wedding day.

Call cake decorators and bakeries in your area to check for their availability for your wedding date. If you date is available, make an appointment www.SouthBeachBride.com

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both of you, the cake decorator knows her costs will be covered and you know that your cake will be ready on your wedding date.

Also be aware that you will often be required to leave a deposit on any equipment that belongs to the cake artist. If you don’t return

plates, fountains, etc., they’ll have to be replaced at the decorators cost and time. Be sure that you are clear about these polices.

Choosing Your Design

Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

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Today’s bride has more options than ever before. Bridal magazines show some wonderful stylish, unique and creative wedding cakes. Take pictures of the cakes that you like to show the decorator the styles you are interested in. The decorator should have books, magazines and photo albums for you to see. If you get your heart set on one particular beautiful cake, you may find it difficult to fine a decorator in your area who can duplicate that specific cake, particularly if you have a limited budget.

There are wonderful individual sugar artists around the country who have their own styles and creative ways of decorating a cake. They might even have a cake design you like better than the one you found in the magazine, or be able to adapt the design to something that works for both of you. If you find the design you want is to complicated for the decorator, they may be able to refer you to someone else.

The Taste of Cake You have picked a beautiful design for your wedding cake. You don’t want to be surprised by a bland, coarse or dry cake at your

wedding. You want a cake that is flavorful, moist and delicious to eat. Ask friends who have attended recent weddings about how the wedding cake tasted. Then ask prospective cake artists or bakeries

if samples of the cake flavor will be available for you to taste when you visit. If not, consider purchasing a birthday cake from the individual or bakery before you hire them to make your special wedding cake. Some decorators offer monthly cake tasting. There is usually a small charge for this. Check to see what is available in your area.

Be considerate of your guests. Things like seeds and coconut in fruit fillings can be difficult for some people to eat.

Choosing Your Icing Choices for covering your wedding cake are numerous. Each icing has its own special qualities. The most popular icing for wedding cakes in the United States is buttercream. Buttercream icing is made with butter or shortening or a butter and shortening base. It has a very sweet taste and can be used for covering, filling and decorating cakes, and is therefore a very versatile icing. Another type of buttercream is Cream Cheese Buttercream, it is basically the same with cream cheese replacing some of the shortening.

Another type of icing that is being used more and more often is rolled fondant.

This is a smooth icing that is rolled out and draped Photo by Brett Tyler Photography

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over the cake. It is then smoothed so that it conforms to the shape of the cake. The fondant covering the cake can be embossed with designs. Rolled fondant can also be used to make pressed and molded decorations for cakes. Usually white but also comes in chocolate.

It can be blended with color or painted. While the outside of this icing will crust, the inside normally stays fairly soft when used to cover a cake. Rolled fondant is usually laid over a buttercream.

gumpaste or chocolate. You can choose fresh or silk flowers.

Buttercream flowers can be piped right onto the cake or made ahead of time. This type of flower allows for easy cutting of the cake.

Royal Icing works better for deeply cupped flowers and may be a better choice if you are having many different types of flowers on your cake, since royal flowers can be made in advance. When dry they are light and crunchy and work

well for cascades and top borders.

Gumpaste flowers can be quite beautiful and very realistic. If you choose to use gumpaste flowers be prepared to pay for the time it takes to make these exquisite work-of-art flowers. Gumpaste is sugar clay from which the flowers are hand formed, rolled, shaped, ruffled, and veined for realistic, porcelain like results. Then after the flowers are dry they are hand painted with food colors. This is a very time consuming process. Many sugar flowers

A wedding cake is an edible work of art and the centerpiece of any wedding reception.

There are many other types of icings. For a less sweet, buttery flavor you could choose Swiss Meringue. There is also Rolled Buttercream, it is softer than rolled fondant. There is also French Buttercream, Ganache and others.

Depending on the look and taste you prefer, your decorator will be able to advise you on which icing will be appropriate for your cake design. Keep an open mind – some designs are simply incompatible with certain icings and or conditions.

Choosing Your Flowers Choosing the right flowers for your wedding cake. There are many types, styles and techniques to choose from. Flowers can be made from buttercream, royal icing, Cake by Divine Delicacies

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are made on wires or toothpicks to achieve the desired look and arrangements so although the gumpaste itself is edible, the wires make the flowers dangerous to eat. Those wired and flowers with toothpicks MUST therefore be removed from the cake before it it’s served. Besides the realism, the advantage to using the gumpaste flowers is that after the wedding you can keep the flowers for a keepsake in an airtight container.

Silk flowers can be a wonderful way to decorate your wedding cake. They can be wired into sprays and arranged on the cake, or they can be arranged around the bottom of the cake. They work well for out-of-season flowers.

an extra fee if you do want him or her to arrange the fresh flowers for you. If you choose to have the florist arrange those flowers on your cake, than you must inform the cake decorator of that decision.

Cost of Your Cake Be prepared to pay for the decorator’s time. The more time involved and more complicated the cake design, the more you should be prepared to pay. Know your budget ahead of time. That will enable the decorator to help you choose wisely from his or

her designs. Many cake decorators charge per serving and calculate the ingredients used and labor involved into that cost. Therefore, the more people your cake serves, the more expensive the cake will be. A dummy cake will usually cost the same amount to decorate as a cake that will be eaten because of the time involve in decorating it.

Complicated designs, some lace patterns, gumpaste flowers etc. can make your cake more costly. However, the cost is often worthwhile, because having the perfect cake means both that you will be happy and that everyone at your reception will forever remember your cake.

Fresh flowers on the wedding cake are becoming increasingly popular. They can be coordinated to match the wedding flowers and can be arranged in floral foam or wired into sprays and placed on the cake. Wired fresh flowers can also be draped down the side of the cake. If you are using fresh flowers on your wedding cake, consider that they have possibly been treated with insecticides and or preservative chemicals. Also, some flowers and greenery are naturally harmful if ingested, so select carefully. If you decide to use fresh flowers, know who is going to put those flowers on your cake and be sure they know about toxicity concerns.

Don’t assume that you can just have the florist leave the flowers for the cake decorator. Many cake decorators have a very tight delivery schedule and simply do not have the extra time to do those flowers for you. You must ask for that service. You should also be prepared to pay the cake decorator www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Food & Cakes

Café Ala Carte

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ho doesn’t enjoy a rich and frothy gourmet coffee? Bringing coffee creations and expert baristas to wedding celebrations for the last fifteen years, Café Ala Carte is wowing wedding guests now more than ever. “These days, budgetminded people are denying themselves these little daily morning pleasures,” says Bonnie Fimiano, owner of Café Ala Carte.

“Café Ala Carte is such a hit with wedding guests today because people really miss their gourmet coffees which have become a way of life.”

Made with Italian-imported machines and topped with beautiful frothed milk and fresh cinnamon, Café Ala Carte’s cappuccinos are made with finest beans, roasted daily and freshly ground at your event. Your guest’s dreamy coffee experience is expertly enhanced with the addition of assorted gourmet cookies and biscotti wedges available in a variety of delectable flavors.

No doubt, these fullystocked coffee carts will be the talk of your event. Whipping up every scrumptious hot beverage from cappuccinos to lattes to espressos and beyond, Café Ala Carte’s impressive assortment of non alcoholic flavored syrups and coffee accompaniments will ensure every guest receives a tailor-made treat they won’t soon forget. And with the help of your caterer or venue, Café Ala Carte can also create a delicious array of specialty coffees overflowing with rich liqueurs like Bailey’s and Amaretto.

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Café Ala Carte also offers a variety of specialty teas for your non-coffee drinking guests. Whether you’re planning for an intimate group of sixty or six thousand, let Café Ala Carte be one of the most memorable highlights of your special day.

It is truly the finishing touch!

(954) 349-1030 www.cafealacarte.com

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A Piece of Cake by Elena

hen looking for a custom wedding cake designer for your South Florida wedding, you can’t go wrong by going to the source. A Piece of Cake by Elena has been in business for nearly 25 years now, and it was the first ever cake specialty shop in South Florida when it opened in 1984.

A Piece of Cake is owned and operated by Elena Warens, who is a trained cake decorator with 37 years of experience. But Elena doesn’t do it all alone. According to her, what makes a successful business is a great partnership. In keeping with that belief, Elena’s husband, Efrain, works right along

side her in running the business.

“I consider myself a cake artist and a cake designer,” says Warens, “and my training is very different.

I am an old-school decorator with new ideas.” A Piece of Cake currently has two locations – one in Miami and one in Stuart – and they are on the verge of opening a third.

Whichever location you choose will maintain their standard of never-frozen, made-to-order cakes for your event.

Elena’s classic training allows her to utilize techniques that escape even some of the best modern cake decorators. “We love to do the crazier decorations, but many of

today’s decorators can’t do freehand scrollwork.” A Piece of Cake receives a lot of scrollwork requests from brides looking for that certain, elegant touch, and Elena Warens is happy to put her specialty to good use.

You can browse through A Piece of Cake’s online gallery by visiting www.apocbyelena.com. Once you are adequately impressed, you can call them and set up a consultation.

A Piece of Cake also delivers anywhere in the state of Florida.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

(305) 558-9142 www.apocbyelena.com

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Chocolate Fountains of South Florida

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ew elements of your wedding will be as memorable as your giant cascading chocolate fountain. Adding a sophisticated yet festive touch to your occasion, chocolate fountains create interactive fun for your guests.

On such an occasion, only the best will do, which is why Chocolate Fountains of South Florida only uses the finest Belgium chocolate, never liquid chocolate or chocolate diluted with oil. “All chocolate fountains are not created equal” says Bonnie Fimiano, owner of Chocolate Fountains of South Florida. “We use only the highest quality chocolate, fruits and desserts for your day. One taste and you’ll instantly know the difference.”

Imagine a delicate curtain of warm chocolate gracefully enfolding colorful fruits and decadent desserts.

Your dipping options are endless; strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, and pound cake (just to name a few). Make sure to request cream puffs, the crowd favorite owing to its cool, creamy center that perfectly harmonizes with the warm, silky chocolate. Chocolate

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fountains are available in dark, milk, or even white chocolate that can be colored to match your event’s color scheme and décor.

Every aspect of your chocolate fountain experience will be absolutely seamless; Chocolate Fountains of South Florida will deliver, set up, maintain, and dismantle your fountain as well as provide a professional chocolatier to ensure your fountain remains pristine and your dipping items well stocked.

You simply can’t go wrong with chocolate fountains; they’re always the big hit that your wedding guests will be talking about for years to come. For brides that are not willing to sacrifice quality or compromise on taste, Chocolate Fountains of South Florida is eager to provide your guests with the “fastest way to enjoy heaven on earth!.” Visit www.chocolatefountainsofsouthflorida.com to view a gallery of event photos and lists of delectable dipping items.

(954) 452-2005 www.chocolatefountainsofsouthflorida.com

Heaven Lee Cakes

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here is often a lot of deliberation that goes into picking the perfect wedding cake, so it is important to have someone who is personable and experienced designing your showpiece. Heaven Lee Cakes is owned and operated

by Mara Tirado out of Miami, Florida, and they take pride in putting special care into the wedding cake design process.

“Every wedding cake is a cooperation between me and my clients,” Mara says. When you go to Heaven Lee Cakes to determine the look of your big cake, you will have the constant support of experts like Mara. You can find a gallery of their cakes on their website at www.HeavenLeeCakes.com, but

you can always go the custom route to make sure your cake turns out just the way you want it.

“I have a wedding-cake design program that allows me to sit down with the bride and map out how the cake will look,” Mara says. Then, once you’ve nailed down your cake’s overall design, you can still look forward to testing and tasting sessions along the way to your cake’s big debut at your wedding.

If you are still wondering how your wedding cake should look, then you should give Heaven Lee Cakes a call to schedule a consultation.

When you see their freshly baked creation displayed for all of your guests at the reception, you will be able to look back fondly on taking part in the creation process.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

(786) 693-9368 www.HeavenLeeCakes.com

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Divine Delicacies Custom Cakes

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n South Florida, there is no shortage of cake specialty shops, so a custom cakes business needs a special something to stand out in the crowd. For Miami-based Divine Delicacies Custom Cakes, their trademark comes in the way of the uniquely delicious vanilla rum cake.

The origins of Custom Cakes can be traced back to 1985 in Havana, Cuba, where Jorge Rodriguez and Iliana Lombardero started baking cakes in their kitchen for their friends and family.

In 1996, the two bakers brought their talents over to the Sunshine State when they moved to Miami. It was after the move that they created their signature vanilla rum cake flavor. In 2001, Jorge and Iliana started their business under the name “Divine Delights,” which would eventually be renamed in 2004 to Divine Delicacies Custom Cakes.

Their journey has resulted in a cake business that still focuses on quality and service, and their efforts have netted Divine Delicacies numerous accolades. They have been voted Best of Weddings from The Knot for 2007, 2008, and 2009, and they are also the preferred baker for David’s Bridal.

The business has also remained a family affair, with Jorge and Iliana’s two daughters – Leysi and Laura – occupying the Director of Finance and Director of Sales positions respectively.

Aside from their unique flavors, Divine Delicacies also offers nice touches like miniature cakes that can be used as favors, and they deliver anywhere in the state of Florida. You can find out more about Divine Delicacies by visiting www.ddcakes.com, and then you can call for a free cake tasting before they guide you through the cake designing process.

(305) 554-4446 www.ddcakes.com

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www.SouthBeachBride.com

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Olde Naples Chocolate

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ne of the highlights of weddings has always been the desserts, and while the cake might often steal the spotlight, it is sometimes the smaller table favors that win the guests over. If chocolate is your thing, then Olde Naples Chocolate can provide you with some eye-catching and delicious sweets for your soiree.

add that special touch to your wedding favors, Olde Naples Chocolate should be one of the first places you call.

945 5th Ave N Naples FL 34102 (239) 262-3975 www.oldenapleschocolate.com info@oldenapleschocolate.com

could imagine. Beach weddings can be perfectly complemented by some chocolate seashells or flamingos for your guests to admire and devour.

Based out of Naples, Florida, Olde Naples Chocolate has been specializing in custom gourmet chocolates since its opening in 2003. The chocolate shop and delivery service is headed up by Laurie Rose, who says that their beach-themed chocolates seem to be the most popular choice for weddings. Olde Naples Chocolate offers a huge selection of chocolates in the shape of anything you 94

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While the company is based out of Naples, they will ship their chocolates anywhere. You can view their huge selection of chocolate designs on their website at www.oldenapleschocolate.com. You are not limited to what you see there, however, as they can also create custom molds based on your order. If you want to

South Beach Bride

Irresistible Confections

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ew favors will delight your wedding guests quite the way gourmet chocolates do, especially when they open up their colorful little box to find handmade truffles. Since 2004, Irresistible Confections has been whipping up delicious custom wedding favors for South Florida weddings using only the best chocolates blended with unique and festive flavors like key lime and champagne.

“We can infuse your event with chocolate in several ways,” says Owner and Chocolatier, Justin Schaffer. Besides decadent wedding favors, Justin also creates lavish chocolate buffets. Imagine

a three-tiered platter piled with every chocolate delight under the sun including chocolate covered popcorn, bear claws, almond bark, and chocolate covered strawberries. Add one of Justin’s bubbling chocolate fountains to the mix and you’ve got a full-scale chocolate mania on your hands.

There’s little Irresistible Confections can’t do with chocolate; Justin has made chocolate pieces that replicate sea shells for beach weddings, boxes and ribbons can be custom designed, and white chocolate can be dyed to match your wedding colors. Justin is also pleased to unveil his latest excit-

ing creation, chocolate margaritas.

Rich sipping chocolate is delicately poured into sugar rimmed margarita glasses for a scrumptious dessert indulgence your guests will never expect. And for that extra something special for your out of town guests, have Irresistible Confections deliver a gift basket filled with yummy treats. Whichever delectable chocolate option you choose, your guests are sure to be elated.

www.SouthBeachBride.com

Justin Schaffer Owner/Chocolatier (239) 425-2606 www.irresistibleconfections.com

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Risqué Cakes

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achelor and bachelorette parties are always memorable, and nothing caps off a night of lighthearted debauchery like an adult-themed cake. Risqué Cakes is a great source for your naughty confectionary needs.

Founded by Pastry Chef Mara Tirado of Miami, Risqué Cakes specializes in festive and suggestive cakes for events that have a more “adult” theme like bachelor and or batchelorette parties.

“We’re a lot of fun,” says Mara.

Risqué Cakes’ selection of cakes, which can be viewed on their website, stretches all the way across the spectrum of adult themes. If your naughty mind can think it up, you can probably bet Risqué Cakes has a cake suitable for the occasion. Cakes are not their only specialty, however; “We also do cupcakes,” Mara says. “We have a line of “Risqué Bites”, which are little cupcakes with naughty bits on them. We also have “Ain’t Yo Mama’s cookies”, which feature cute, cartoony, edible images with double entendres on them.”

Risqué Cakes has options for whatever type of suggestive or festive cake you need for your party, and they make everything fresh to order before it goes out the door. Looking through the gallery of decadent cakes is half the fun, and you can go online at www.risquebusinessbakeryandcafe.com to begin your selection process.

Once you’ve decided what part of the human anatomy suits your event best, you can rest easy knowing that a freshly made masterpiece will be the hit of your party.

12345 NE 6th Avenue North Miami Beach, FL (786) 693-9368 RisqueCakes@aol.com www.risquebusinessbakeryandcafe.com 96

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Tender Loving Chocolates

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stablished in 1980, with a “by-appointment only” showroom, Tender Loving Chocolates has provided Weddings, Bridal Showers and other events throughout the world with elaborately decorated chocolate favors for 29 years. The company is known for using only the most select embellishments on their finished creations, including the finest ribbons and flowers that are custom hand-made in

their favorite chocolate vendor, www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/favorite-chocolate-vendors-1.

Thailand. Each order is either previewed in the showroom or on their website, www.tenderlovingchocolates.com. Each favor is individually created to enhance the ambiance of the event or favorite colors and theme for the “special someone” in your life.

Tender Loving Chocolates can print color photographs, initials, custom monograms, etc. with custom molds or edible powders and ink directly on the surface of the chocolate creations. Bridal Showers and Wedding Favors are TLC’s specialty and have been featured in those of many celebrities and “well-known’s”, including the personal Wedding of the Editor of Martha Stewart Weddings magazine. Darcy Miller......who has mentioned the company in “Good Things” section several times and also lists them on their website as

Tender Loving Chocolates has approximately 7,000 items in stock and is looking forward to creating #7,001 just for you!

(305) 653-5000 www.tenderlovingchocolates.com We Ship Worldwide

www.SouthBeachBride.com

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The Cookie Bandit, Inc

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ookies are always a hit with any crowd, any time. Try as you might, but you’d be hard pressed to find anyone at your wedding who doesn’t love a delightfully decorated sugar cookie. This was the thinking behind the creation of The Cookie Bandit, the brainchild of owner Lisa Dominguez whose vibrantly colorful and artful treats look more like something you’d hang on a wall than eat.

When Lisa launched The Cookie Bandit, she started with just sugar and drop cookies. These days, she’s now offering cupcakes, brownies, and chocolate dipped treats such as rice krispy squares and pretzels. “We’re certainly not just a cookie company anymore,” Lisa

says with enthusiasm. “We can do so much more that you’d even imagine.” What she means is that Lisa’s cookies are highly customizable and can be tailored to suit any event, any theme, and any color scheme.

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white photo of you and your hubby on each cookie. With the help of edible ink, anything is possible.

Lisa has even reproduced the wedding invitation onto a cookie. “The sky really is the limit when it comes to what we can do with your cookies. We

have over a thousand molds to choose from, any color under the sun, and thousands of clips art images that can be printed directly on each cookie.”

South Beach Bride

Cookies can be used as favors, placed on the dessert table for munching during your wedding, even delivered to guest’s hotel rooms with a bottle of champagne to express gratitude to guests who have traveled.

No matter where or when you present The Cookie Bandit’s scrumptious creations, they are sure to be met with a grin.

(305) 450-5692 www.thecookiebandit.com

Bride:

Engagement Date:

Groom:

Wedding Date:

CONTENTS CHARTS AND LISTS

TOPIC WORKSHEETS

09 03 08 04 07 10 43 21 08 11

29 27 20 32 18 12 15 35 30 33 34 41 43 37 29 30 12 22 16 44 40 36 26

Bridal Party Duties Bridal Show Checklist Budget Planner Countdown Contact List Guest & Gift List Honeymoon Packing Registry Checklist Tip Chart Wedding Party Gifts

WEDDING DAY INFORMATION 12 14 06 25 19 06

Ceremony Details Ceremony Formations Itinerary Photos - Must Have Seating Arrangements Survival Kit

Beauty Salon Bridal Attire Bridal Registry Cake Catering Ceremony Consultants Decorations DJs Favors Flowers Guest Accommodations Honeymoon/Travel Itinerary Invitations Jewelry Musicians Officiants Photography Receptions Rehearsal Dinner Transportation Tuxedos Videography

BRIDAL SHOWS

Bridal Show Survival Guide W

hether you’re a first timer or a seasoned veteran, the following tips will help make your bridal show experience both productive and enjoyable. Have a great time at the show!

Be prepared to wait in line to register. Please be patient! Pre-registration on-line is offered by many Bridal Show promoters, who usually give you a discounted ticket price pre-show.

Ask your fiancé to come with you to the show. It is much more likely that you will be able to make a decision and book a vendor, if accompanied.

The groom’s participation in wedding planning is growing.

Bring along bridal show buddies. There’s plenty of territory to cover, between you and your friends, you’ll be able to locate the hottest booths and the best deals.

Make sure all members of your entourage have cell phones with them in case you get split up.

Make sure their cell numbers are in your cell phone’s phonebook!

Plan to spend a minimum of three to four hours in order to see all the exhibits and the fashion show.

Wear comfortable shoes. For the better part of the day you’ll be standing and talking to vendors. The only opportunity to sit down is during the fashion show, and even then, seating is limited.

Be prepared to wear a “Bride-To-Be” or “Groom” sticker to receive special attention from the vendors.

Remember to bring a pen and notebook to take notes and make certain to write clearly. Bring

preprinted self-adhesive address labels if you have them. You will be asked for your name, address, phone number, email and wedding date countless times before the show is over. This will save you time and it will allow you to sign up for many of the prizes that will be given away.

When filling out forms make sure to print VERY clearly. You’d hate to miss out on a door prize or lose track of someone you like because they couldn’t read your handwriting!

If there is room, the best place to write notes about a vendor is right on the literature he or she gives you. It will help you after the show to keep the vendors from melding into one another.

If organization is your strong suit, bring a binder with envelopes and file tabs for each kind of vendor (caterer, photographer, florist, etc.).

Before you leave a vendor’s booth, file the business cards and brochures. This will save you lots of time later.

Bring along a Palm or appointment book to record meetings you set up with vendors. A lightweight tote will work well to carry all your goodies. Some Bridal Shows provide Brides with bags specifically for collecting information.

Come with an open mind. One of the best things about a bridal show is that it gives you an opportunity to see what’s new and exciting, things you may not have thought of or considered.

Don’t be embarrassed to ask lots of questions.

Professionals are happy to share what they know with you.

When speaking to a vendor, save time. Your first question to a vendor should be: Are you available on this date? If you get a “NO”, move on.

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

Collect information from every vendor. Take it home to look over when you have some quiet time. With all the planning you have to do you may not have thought you wanted certain things, like a harpist or freeze drying your wedding bouquet.

Don’t expect to walk away from the show with signed contracts in your hand. A show is a place where you make appointments to discuss your wedding in depth. Bring along color swatches.

They may prove helpful in getting suggestions from vendors, such as bakers, florists, balloonists, decorators, etc.

If you are out of town, send your mother or a friend to collect information on services you need.

The bridal fashion show is often the highlight of a show. Make certain to arrive early enough to get a really good seat. If you have already selected your wedding attire, you may wish to skip the fashion show in order to spend more time with the vendors.

Avoid bringing small children to the show.

While it may be tempting to bring your flower girl along to see all the neat wedding stuff, they are sure to tire quickly and detract from your mission of finding vendors and ideas for your wedding.

Don’t wait for the end of the show to pick up the free bridal magazines. There are usually many more attendees than there are magazines, so don’t get left out!

Most importantly, have fun! This is the most exciting time of your life - enjoy it!

3

WEDDING COUNTDOWN

A MINIMUM TWELVE MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING Coordinate wedding date with ceremony location.

Choose officiant or wedding celebrant, if applicable, & investigate any consultations.

Interview wedding consultants, & decide on their degree of involvement.

Decide the style, formality & size of celebration.

Begin invitation guest lists for both families.

Decide on a wedding budget (and stick with it!), & who will contribute.

Interview, inspect & compare several reception facilities personally.

Interview, inspect & compare several licensed catering & beverage companies, if applicable.

Interview, review work & compare professional photographers personally before choosing one.

Interview, review style & compare professional videographers.

Begin process of choosing wedding gown that you feel best in (not what others think you should wear!)

NINE TO TWELVE MONTHS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Begin process of choosing bridesmaid attire that looks best on everyone.

Interview floral decorators/designers & decide on in-season f flowers.

Interview, inspect & compare several reception entertainment companies (bands or disc jockeys.)

Begin process of selecting appropriate ceremony music & musicians.

Order wedding gown, bridesmaid dresses & schedule fittings for alterations.

Hire ceremony musicians & reception entertainment companies.

Interview, taste test & compare licensed wedding cake companies.

Decide on additional decorating ideas involving balloons, ice sculptures, special lighting, etc.

Begin process of selecting wedding rings.

Send engagement announcement & photograph to local & hometown newspapers.

Begin process of choosing appropriate invitations.

Investigate wedding gift registries at department stores, boutiques, specialty stores, travel agents, etc.

Interview, inspect & compare several licensed transportation companies.

Interview, inspect & decide on a rehearsal site.

SIX TO NINE MONTHS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Send ‘save the date’ cards to guest list.

4

Choose wedding cake company or bakery.

Finalize guest list.

Order wedding invitations & personalize stationery.

Choose wedding day transportation for bridal party & out-of-town guests.

Finalize wedding gift registries.

Choose accessories to wedding gown including veil, shoes, jewelry, lingerie, etc.

Begin process of formalwear attire for groom, groomsmen & fathers.

Investigate honeymoon options with travel agent.

THREE TO SIX MONTHS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Take a complete wedding invitation to post office to be weighed for proper postage.

Finalize honeymoon plans & arrange time off from work.

Make final decision & buy wedding rings.

Shop for wedding guests favors.

Contract with equipment rental company for any needed items or supplies for ceremony or reception.

Finalize selected tuxedo styles for groom, groomsmen, father & ringbearer.

Discuss music selections for both ceremony & reception with hired companies.

Instruct mothers to select their formalwear gowns.

Reserve a block of rooms for out-of-town guests.

Apply for passport (Now required for any travel outside of the U.S.) ONE TO THREE MONTHS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Mail invitations to guests.

Set appointment with hair stylist to practice different styles with veil.

Discuss ceremony plans, include readings & vows, with officiant & complete premarital consultations.

Book rehearsal at ceremony site & invite photographer & videographer to review setup locations.

Shop for rehearsal dinner site at a local restaurant or have catered event at home.

Inquire about marriage license requirements with county courthouse.

Review details & arrangements with all companies involved, discuss last minute emergency options.

Order correct length aisle runner from florist or equipment rental company.

Order wedding accessories, guest book, pen, unity candle, ring bearer’s pillow, programs, garter, etc.

Have wedding gown & bridesmaid dresses pressed and/or steamed.

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING COUNTDOWN

Select groom’s & bridal party gifts.

Order wedding favors.

TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Contact guests that failed to respond to invitations.

Give final “head count” to reception facility or caterer.

Reconfirm rehearsal time & dates & be sure to share with bridal party.

Ask a family member or friend to be the guest book attendant at ceremony site.

Discuss with photographer & videographer a list of special people or events to be captured.

Make an appointment at a spa for a massage, facial, manicure & pedicure.

Begin packing for honeymoon (If leaving the country, you need a passport or original birth certificate.)

Reconfirm with travel agent about honeymoon plans.

If applicable, begin name & address change on all official documents.

Make arrangements to pick up or have your gown delivered.

Confirm tuxedo rental order & set fitting appointment for the men.

Catch up on writing thank you cards for wedding gifts received thus far.

Choose final makeup & hair style for wedding day & set appointment with salon for your wedding day.

Have bachelor & bachelorette parties prior to rehearsal & definitely not the night before the wedding.

ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE WEDDING Relax... you’re almost there!

Make sure you have your marriage license.

Write check(s) for officiant’s fee, ceremony musicians or soloists.

Confirm balance due with each company involved & transfer funds into account to cover final payments.

Finish packing for honeymoon.

Order travelers checks from travel agent or bank.

Finalize seating plan & place cards for reception.

Review wedding day details with wedding coordinator/ consultant.

Meet with entertainer(s) & review proper pronunciation of names & finalize reception sequence.

Prepare wedding day itinerary with times & locations for the wedding party, family members, & wedding vendors.

Confirm transportation & review wedding day schedule with times & location with driver.

Hold rehearsal of wedding ceremony & attend rehearsal dinner.

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

Have bridal party gifts ready to be given away at rehearsal dinner.

Send wedding announcement & photograph to local newspapers.

Go home early after the rehearsal dinner & get a good night sleep... you’re going to need it!

YOUR WEDDING DAY Sleep in & relax... all your months of planning is about to pay off.

Enjoy a good breakfast & take the time to reflect upon your new adventure that is about to begin.

Have someone take a completed invitation to the post office & have it stamped with your wedding date as a keepsake.

Go to the salon for your makeover & hair styling at least three to four hours before the ceremony.

Be sure everyone is dressed about two hours before the ceremony & ready for photographs to be taken.

Have groomsmen at church at least one hour prior to the ceremony to start seating guests as they arrive.

Begin your music thirty minutes before the ceremony.

Send a love note to your fiance before the wedding begins.

The groom’s parents are second to the last people to be seated before the ceremony.

The bride’s mother is the last to be seated, just a few moments before the ceremony begins.

Have two ushers or groomsman roll out the aisle runner.

Take your position with whomever is giving you away.

DON’T FORGET...

SOMETHING OLD: ____________________________________ SOMETHING NEW: ___________________________________ SOMETHING BORROWED: _____________________________ SOMETHING BLUE: ____________________________________ AFTER THE WEDDING Open gifts while keeping a gift record.

Have gown cleaned & preserved.

Write thank you notes.

Check with photographer & videographer.

Have bridal bouquet & other wedding mementos preserved.

Freeze top layer of wedding cake to be eaten at your first anniversary celebration.

Make sure all vendor bills have been paid in full.

Apply for a name change, beginning with Social Security card and driver’s license, and then bank accounts, credit cards, employee records, etc.

5

WEDDING DAY ITINERARY WEDDING DAY

It’s a good idea to follow an overall timetable for your actual wedding celebration beginning with the rehearsal dinner through the end of the reception. Just fill in the approximate times you expect these events to take place.

REHEARSAL Rehearsal: _____________________

Rehearsal Dinner: _________________

WEDDING DAY Hairdresser: ____________________

Manicurist:_______________________

Facial/Make-up: ________________ TIME OF ARRIVAL AT BRIDE’S HOME Attendants: _____________________

Photographer: ____________________

Videographer: __________________

Limousines: ______________________

Florist: _________________________

Departing Time: __________________

ARRIVAL AT CHURCH Ushers: ________________________

Groomsmen: _____________________

Best Man: ______________________

Groom:__________________________

Groom’s Parents:________________

Bride’s Mother: ___________________

Bridesmaids: ___________________

Maid of Honor: ___________________

Bride’s Father: __________________

Bride: ___________________________

Guest Bk Attendant: _____________

Florist:___________________________

Rental Items:____________________

Photographer: ____________________

Videographer: _________________

Musicians: _______________________

Officiant: ______________________

Other:___________________________

CEREMONY Music Begins: __________________

Ceremony Begins: ________________

ARRIVAL AT RECEPTION LOCATION Caterer: _______________________

Rental Items: _____________________

Baker: _________________________

Musicians: _______________________

Florist: ________________________

Photographer: ____________________

Videographer: _________________

Guests: __________________________

Bride & Groom:_________________ TIMING OF

6

Cocktails: _____________________

Hors d’oeurvres: __________________

Blessing: ______________________

Toast: ___________________________

Dinner: ________________________

Dessert: _________________________

Start of Music: _________________

First Dance: ______________________

Parent Dances: _________________

Special Dances: __________________

Cutting of Cake: ________________

Bouquet Toss:_____________________

Garter Toss: ____________________

Departure of Bride & Groom: _______

Function Ending: _______________

Overtime Available Until: __________

Other: _________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: _________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: _________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: ________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: ________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: _________________________

Other:___________________________

Other: _________________________

Other:___________________________

SURVIVAL KIT FOR THE BRIDE Make-up Kit Make-up Remover Make-up Brushes Perfume Toothbrush/toothpaste Dental Floss Lip Balm Breath Mints/Gum Toothpicks Mirror Tissues Tweezers Cotton Balls/Q-tips Contact Lenses & Solution Eye Drops Hand Lotion Nail Polish - to match yours Nail Polish - clear to stop hosiery runs Nail Polish Remover Nail Glue Small scissors Nail File Hair Spray & Gel Brush Comb Hairdryer Straightener Curling Iron Hair Pins Clear Deodorant Tampons/Panty Liners Razor Shaving Cream Stockings/Pantyhose Bath Robe Chalk (to cover small stains!)

Stain Remover Spray Shout Wipes(for stains) Sunscreen Insect Repellent

Glue Sewing Needle Thread (black, white & color to match bridesmaid dresses) Safety Pins Masking Tape Stapler Lint Remover Static Guard Iron Band-Aid’s Antibiotic Ointment Tums Smelling Salts Aspirin/Tylenol Benadryl Something to eat (cheese/crackers/granola bar) Bottled Water Pack of matches, disposable lighter Pen and Pad of Paper Bridal Gown Weddings Shoes and comfy shoes 2 - Garters (1 to keep and 1 to toss) Change of clothing for after reception Groom’s Ring Extra socks for the Groom/Groomsmen Cash/Credit Cards Driver’s License Cell Phone/PDA Raincoat Umbrella Wedding Vendors - Phone Numbers Bridal Party - Phone Numbers Instant Shoe Shine Buff

FOR THE GROOM Tuxedo or suit Cufflinks Handkerchief Shoes and socks Comb or/and brush Hair gel/other products Breath mints Toothpaste/brush

Razor, shaving cream Deodorant Aftershave Money, credit card Drivers license Any medications Present for the bride

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING CONTACT SHEET WEDDING VENDORS

BRIDAL PARTY

Baker: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Maid of Honor: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Beauty Salon: Tel: _____________________ Cell: _________________________

Best Man: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridal Salon/Seamstress: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Caterer: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

DJ/Entertainment: Tel: _____________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Florist:

Bridesmaid:

Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Hotel: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Jeweler: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Musician/Soloist: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Bridesmaid: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Officiant: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Flower Girl: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Photographer: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Reception Hall: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Rehearsal DInner: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Rental Company: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Transportation Service: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Travel Agent: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Groomsman: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Tuxedo Rental:

Groomsman:

Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Videographer: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Guest Book Attendant: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Wedding Consultant: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

Ring Bearer: Tel:______________________ Cell: _________________________

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

7

BUDGET PLANNER

TIP CHART CATEGORIES

Bridal Party Gifts Bride’s Attire Ceremony

BUDGETED

ACTUAL COST

DEPOSIT

BALANCE

BALANCE DUE DATE

No bridal budget is complete until nominal tipping charges are factored into the overall wedding costs. Although not required (nor expected), by every wedding vendor, small gratuity gifts for ‘a job well done’ by certain service or delivery personnel are a gracious way of showing your appreciation in making your wedding run more smoothly.

Important: Be sure to inquire if products or services you have already contracted for include a gratuity or service charge built into your price.

Consultant Decorations, Flowers & Rental Equipment Entertainment Favors Groom’s Attire Health & Beauty Invitations/Postage Photography Reception, Caterer & Beverages Rings/Wedding Bands

OFFICIANT/CLERGY $75 - $100 ‘donations’ are appropriate.

Mayors, judges or other public servants may not be able to accept gratuities.

CEREMONY SITE STAFF (soloist, organist, church staff, etc.) $20 to $30 per person, depending on amount of service DELIVERY/SETUP PERSONNEL (decorators, floral, cake, etc.) $10 each if just dropping items off, $20 each if dropping off and setting up to great extent.

TRANSPORTATION DRIVER(S) 15% - 20% on top of contracted fee paid to driver.

RECEPTION WAIT STAFF $20 to $40 each, depending upon quality of service.

BARTENDERS 15% - 20%. If not on the spot tipping, then add an additional 10%.

Transportation

RECEPTION SITE MANAGER 15% to 20% of entire bill for the reception.

Videography

DJ / BAND: 15% to 20% of the bill should be given to the bandleader or D.J, more if they exceeded expectations.

Wedding Cakes Other

PARKING ATTENDANTS: $1 - $2 per car if they are not taking tips from guests.

Grand Totals

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

BRIDAL PARTY DUTIES GROOM Help select a date and reception hall.

Choose your best man, groomsmen and ushers.

Meet with officiant, master of ceremony.

Help build a guest list as soon as possible.

Research band and/or disc jockeys, and know the budget you have.

Shop for wedding rings Check requirements for blood tests and marriage license Get the transportation to the ceremony and reception handled.

Select tuxes for groomsmen Organize honeymoon and make all travel arrangements Help with details and finalizing as requested by the bride.

The groom’s parents typically cover and plan the rehearsal dinner. Decide how this will work and help by planning with parents.

Buy the bride a memorable wedding gift.

Make sure all business and legal affairs are handled. This includes name changes, medical plans, checking accounts, etc.

Be sure to double check tuxedo orders and fittings. Make sure all groomsmen know when and where final fittings are.

File for your marriage license with your bride-to-be.

If moving get a change of address card to the Post Office.

Pick out the groomsmen gifts. These men will be doing a lot of work for you on wedding day. Make sure you get them something they might enjoy.

Pick up your wedding rings and check the engraving to see if everything spelled correct.

Go over the final details with fiancée.

Pick up the tux, try it on and check yourself out.

Make sure best man & ushers get their wedding attire.

Reconfirm all honeymoon reservations. If flying, make sure you have airline tickets & passports.

Have your hair cut.

Make sure your attendants are at the rehearsal, and know their duties.

Make sure your ushers are aware of any special seating arrangements.

Attend rehearsal dinner - relax and enjoy yourself!

Bring your wedding license to the official at rehearsal, be sure it is filled out properly so it can be signed and returned to you after your wedding.

Give the best man the brides wedding ring.

Prepare the officiant fee or gift in an envelope, and give it to the best man so he can present it after the ceremony.

Decide where you are going to dress and hang your suit, ready for the wedding day.

On the wedding day, make sure your luggage is in the car or hotel where you will stay your first night.

Pack all other items safely and securely into a travel bag and ensure that the wedding rings are safe.

MAID/MATRON OF HONOR Help select bridal gown and help address invitations.

Plan bridal shower for bride.

Optional: Plan a night out for the girls, based on what the bride would like.

Arrange the bride’s veil and gown before the processional and recessional.

May need to carefully situate train or veil during ceremony.

Hold bride’s bouquet and groom’s ring, if no ring bearer, during the ceremony.

Sign marriage license with best man as witness.

Keep bride on wedding day itinerary.

Dance with best man during the bridal party dance.

Help bride change into her going away clothes.

Mail wedding announcements after the wedding.

Plan speech/toast.

BEST MAN Help with tux shopping.

Organize bachelor party.

Attend rehearsal.

Sign marriage license with maid/matron of honor as witnesses.

If requested, get payments to the officiant, musicians, church; tip the DJ or

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

help finalize other bills.

Keep groom on schedule.

Know directions from the ceremony to the reception hall in advance.

Drive groom to ceremony.

Welcome guests and recognize the parents.

Have a prepared toast.

Dance with bride and the bridesmaids. Be available for activities on the dance floor.

Help the groom collect tuxes the next morning and offer to drop them all off.

BRIDESMAIDS Purchase dress and accessories as part of the wedding party.

Assist maid/matron of honor in planning bridal shower.

Assist bride with errands and addressing invitations.

Participate in all pre-wedding parties.

Arrive at dressing site according to time chosen by bride.

Participate in photographs.

Walk behind ushers in order of height during the processional, either in pairs or in single file.

Sit at the head table.

Dance with ushers, groomsmen and other important guests.

Encourage single women to participate in the bouquet-tossing ceremony.

GROOMSMEN/USHERS Purchase tux and accessories as part of the wedding party.

Assist best man with any parties or plans.

Assist best man with any errands.

Participate in all pre-wedding parties.

Arrive at dressing site according to time chosen by groom.

Participate in photographs.

Be a part of the processional.

Sit at the head table.

Dance with bridesmaids or other guests.

Encourage single men to participate in garter toss.

Help best man with bachelor party.

Arrive dressed at ceremony site according to bride’s schedule for the wedding for photographs and getting organized.

Seat guests as they arrive at the ceremony. Check with bride for timing.

Light any candles before the ceremony, if asked.

See that programs/service booklets are prepared before the ceremony.

Make sure all ceremonial items are ready.

Help direct musicians and check that microphones are working.

Distribute wedding programs and maps to the reception as guests arrive.

Two ushers may roll runner down the aisle after both mothers are seated.

At ceremony’s closing, escort guests out of the church.

Stay in the church until all guests have exited.

If pew ribbons are used, loosen them one row at a time after the ceremony.

Direct guests to the reception site.

Be prepared to participate in pictures.

MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE Main confidant and be there to support your daughter.

Help your daughter select her wedding gown and accessories.

Assist in selecting the ceremony and reception facilities and any other wedding selections she needs help with.

Arrange a get together for you to meet the groom’s parents.

Select your gown and accessories and let the groom’s mother know what you are wearing.

Plan the wedding budget and what you can contribute.

Plan the number of guests and your guest list.

Reserve hotel accommodations for the out-of-town guests Spread the word about the bridal registries.

Attend the wedding shower and rehearsal dinner.

Hostess at the wedding and reception - make sure all guest are comfortable.

Participating in receiving line.

Assist the bride in greeting all her guests.

Help your daughter when ever possible in planning this important day.

9

GUEST AND GIFT LIST

Use this list to compile all of the names and addresses of your guests for the wedding and bridal shower(s).

Keep track of gifts, RSVPs, and thank you notes sent. Photocopy extra pages as needed and insert into binder.

Send invitation for: ____ Shower ____ Ceremony ____ Reception Name ___________________________________________________ RSVP _________ # Attending _______ Address _____________________________ City _______________________ State ________ Zip ________ Shower Gift ______________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Wedding Gift _____________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Send invitation for: ____ Shower ____ Ceremony ____ Reception Name ___________________________________________________ RSVP _________ # Attending _______ Address _____________________________ City _______________________ State ________ Zip ________ Shower Gift ______________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Wedding Gift _____________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Send invitation for: ____ Shower ____ Ceremony ____ Reception Name ___________________________________________________ RSVP _________ # Attending _______ Address _____________________________ City _______________________ State ________ Zip ________ Shower Gift ______________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Wedding Gift _____________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Send invitation for: ____ Shower ____ Ceremony ____ Reception Name ___________________________________________________ RSVP _________ # Attending _______ Address _____________________________ City _______________________ State ________ Zip ________ Shower Gift ______________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Wedding Gift _____________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Send invitation for: ____ Shower ____ Ceremony ____ Reception Name ___________________________________________________ RSVP _________ # Attending _______ Address _____________________________ City _______________________ State ________ Zip ________ Shower Gift ______________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________ Wedding Gift _____________________________ Date Rec’d _____________ Thank You Sent ___________

10

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING PARTY GIFTS Groom’s Gift _________________________________________________________________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date ___________________Store ____________________________ Price __________________ Maid of Honor’s Gift _________________________________________________________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date ___________________Store ____________________________ Price __________________ Bridesmaids’ Gift _________________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Jr. Bridesmaids’ Gift ______________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Flowergirls’ Gift __________________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Best Man’s Gift ______________________________________________________________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date ___________________Store ____________________________ Price __________________ Usher’s Gift _______________________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Ringbearer’s Gift _________________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Reader/Greeter’s Gift ____________________________________ Store ____________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date __________________Quantity _________ Price Each __________ Total ______________ Guest Book Attendant’s Gift _________________________________________________________________ Engraving (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________ Pick Up Date ___________________Store ____________________________ Price __________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

11

CEREMONY

CEREMONY SITE

Location #1

Location #2

Location #3

Site Name Contact Name Address Telephone Website E-Mail Is there time allotted before and/or after the ceremony for photographs?

Are there any restrictions for decorating or wedding vendors?

Do you have a bridal room?

Do you have a list of packages?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

What else should we know about your site?

MY CEREMONY SITE IS: Location: _________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ____________________ Restrictions: Video ___________________ Photo _________________ Flower _______________________ Unity Candle: ____________ Aisle Runner: ___________ Attire: ____________ Music: _____________

OFFICIANT

Officiant #1

Officiant #2

Officiant #3

Site Name Contact Name Address Telephone Website E-Mail How many years of wedding experience?

Do you have sample wordings?

Can you include religious or personal touches to the ceremony?

How do you charge for your services?

Do you contact my ceremony musicians to discuss timing?

12

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

CEREMONY

Do you attend the rehearsal?

Do you require pre-martial counseling?

Do you like to attend the reception as well?

Do you submit the marriage license to the county courthouse?

Can you provide references?

Do you have a cancellation policy?

MY OFFICIANT IS: Name: ____________________________ Fee: __________ Due Date: _________ Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ____________________

CEREMONY MUSIC

Soloist/Group #1

Soloist/Group #2

Soloist/Group #3

Site Name Contact Name Address Telephone Website E-Mail How many years of professional experience do you have?

What percentage of your business is dedicated to weddings?

What type of music do you specialize in?

What instrument(s) do you offer?

How would you dress for my wedding?

Do you have liability insurance?

What fees are included in your service?

What is your payment and/or cancellation policy?

CEREMONY MUSIC:

____________________________________

Contact: ______________________

Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ____________________ SOLOIST: Name: _____________________________________ Phone: ___________________________ Address: _____________________________________________

Fee: _________ Due Date: _________

Email: _________________________________________ Website: _______________________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

13

CEREMONY FORMATIONS Ceremony formations will vary greatly depending upon your religion, the formality of your wedding, and other necessary considerations. Shown below are two samples, which illustrate a basic formation and a sample processional and recessional order. Although formations can be confusing at times, your officiant will always be able to advise you on the proper requirements for your wedding.

Receiving Line Formations The receiving line may occur immediately after the ceremony in the back of the church, or weather permitting, outside. You may choose to have it at the reception site. This is a time for all of your guests to express their congratulations and best wishes to you, as well as meeting your parents and friends.

Traditionally the reception host (the bride’s mother) leads the reception line. Usually, the male attendants and child participants do not stand in the line. Each person should introduce themselves, and the person next to them in line if needed.

Following are some examples. You can use one of these, or do whatever best suits your situation.

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

CONSULTANTS

Company Name

Consultant #1

Consultant #2

Consultant #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How long have you been planning events?

Do you have a business license?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

Do you have formal consultant training?

How many weddings do you plan a year?

Do you provide on-site coordinating services on the wedding day?

Do you plan more than one wedding per day?

Do you have assistants to help on the wedding day?

Can you negotiate special rates with other wedding vendors?

Can you help establish & manage a budget?

Do you have a portfolio of weddings you have planned?

Do you have an emergency wedding day kit?

Do you coordinate delivery, arrival, and set-up times with vendors?

How do you charge for your services?

Is there an extra charge for travel?

When do you arrive on my wedding day and when do you leave?

Is there anything you won’t do?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Will I save money using a consultant?

Are there any additional fees?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Can you provide three references?

MY CONSULTANT IS: Name: _________________________ Fee: __________ Due Date: _________ Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ____________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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RECEPTIONS & CATERING

Company Name

Location #1

Location #2

Location #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website E-Mail

How long have you been in business?

How long have you hosted weddings?

Do you have a business license?

Do you have liquor license?

Have you won any awards?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

How far in advance should I book your facility?

Are there discounts for Friday night or Sunday afternoon receptions?

Are there “off season� savings (Nov-April)?

Is the catering office staffed during the entire reception?

Do you have a wedding consultant? If so, what are her qualifications?

Which rooms are available for receptions?

What is the room max. & min. capacity?

Are outside caterers allowed or is there a preferred list of caterers?

How do you coordinate with other wedding services (musicians/florist/etc)?

Is there a dance floor, and if so how large?

Can the dance floor be placed anywhere?

Is there a stage for the musicians?

Can you customize a menu?

Is there a taste test available for the menu selected? Is there a charge?

Do they provide seated service, buffet, family style or food stations?

For a buffet, do you charge per person or per plate?

For a buffet, are the portions fixed or can guests have as much as they want?

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

RECEPTIONS & CATERING

Company Name

Location #1

Location #2

Location #3

What is the server to guest ratio?

What do the servers wear during the reception?

Can you provide special dietary meals?

What is your standard bar package & cost?

Is top shelf or house brand liquor served?

Do you charge by the drink or by bottle?

Is there an extra charge for bartenders?

How many bartenders? What about tipping?

Is a champagne toast included?

Does the bar close during meal service?

Do you provide a directional map to put with invitations?

(For hotels) Do you have a special package for overnight accommodations?

Do you have outdoor location for photos?

Is the facility smoking or nonsmoking?

Do you provide cake cutting service, and if so, is there an extra charge?

Do you provide specialty bars, i.e. martini or coffee?

Do you provide any special accommodations for children?

Are meals for wedding vendors specially priced?

Is there a coat check?

Is there a valet service?

Is there ample parking?

Is there a fee for parking?

Do you provide security?

Is there a bridal room?

How many restrooms do you have?

Is the facility handicapped accessible?

Is clean up included?

Do you have ample electrical outlets?

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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RECEPTIONS & CATERING

Location #1

Location #2

Location #3

How many hours is the typical reception?

How soon before the reception can we get into the room for decorating/set-up?

What are your decorating guidelines?

If the reception runs longer than contracted, are there penalties?

Will there be another event before or after ours? If so what is the time frame?

When is final head count due?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have liability insurance?

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

MY RECEPTION SITE IS: Facility: ___________________________ Contact: ______________________ Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Hours: __________ Email: ___________________________________ Website: _____________________ Arrival Time:_____ Departure Time: _____ Room Capacity: _____ # to Attend: ______Extra Costs: _____ Clean-up Requirements: __________________________Decoration Limitations:_______________________ Available Services: U Bar/Bartenders U Dance Floor U Security U Chairs U Parking U Tables U Decorations U Bridal Room U Table Linens U Coat Check U Restrooms U Caterer U Kitchen U Valet

MY CATERER IS: Company: ________________________________ Contact: ______________________ Address: __________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Hours: __________ Email: ___________________________________ Website: _____________________ Final Course: _________Due Date:_________ Payment Schedule __________________________________ Reception Style: U Buffett U Sit-Down U Family Style U Food Stations U Hors d’oeuvres U Cake & Punch Extras: U Glasses U China U Silverware U Chair Covers U Linens U Cake Cutting & Serving U Bartenders Beverages: U Beer U Wine U Liqour U Champagne U Mixed Drinks U Coffee/Tea U Soft Drinks U Other

BRIDAL PLANNING TIP Consider allocating 5% of your budget to a “just in case” fund. This will help cover unforseen closing costs. You’ll be covered if something breaks last minute, an extra guest needs to be added, or if you forgot to order a corsage for an additional family member.

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

SEATING ARRANGEMENTS

FOLLOWING ARE EXAMPLES OF POPULAR SEATING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE BRIDAL PARTY AND PARENTS AT THE RECEPTION. YOU MAY USE ONE OF THESE, HOWEVER, THERE ARE NO SET RULES THAT SAY YOU MUST DO IT THIS WAY. YOUR ATTENDANTS’ SPOUSES MAY BE SEATED WITH THEM AT THE HEAD TABLE, OR JUST INCLUDE THE ACTUAL WEDDING PARTY.

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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BRIDAL REGISTRY

Store Name

Store #1

Store #2

Store #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail

Do you have a registry consultant?

When do you suggest we start our wedding registry?

How do you handle possible discontinued and/or out-of-stock items on my registry?

How can I update my registry?

Can I add/delete items from my registry at any time?

Do you have an online registry?

Is gift wrapping included?

Is there a discount to complete my place settings after the wedding? If so, how much and for how long?

What are your shipping standards and procedures?

Are the taxes included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

What is your return policy?

MY REGISTRIES ARE: Store: ________________________________________________ Contact: __________________________ Address (if applicable): _________________________________ Phone: ____________________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ______________________ Store: ________________________________________________ Contact: __________________________ Address (if applicable): _________________________________ Phone: ____________________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ______________________ Store: ________________________________________________ Contact: __________________________ Address (if applicable): _________________________________ Phone: ____________________________ Hours: __________ Email: __________________________________ Website: ______________________ 20

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

REGISTRY CHECKLIST

SHEETS AND COMFORTERS __ Flat Sheets __ Fitted Sheets __ Pillow Cases __ Pillow Shams __ Comforter __ Blankets __ Dust Ruffle __ Quilt/Coverlet __ Throw Blankets DUVET COVERS __ Duvet Cover __ Dust Ruffle __ Pillow Shams PILLOWS AND PADS __ Pillows __ Pillow Protectors __ Mattress Pad __ Featherbed TOWELS __ Bath Towels __ Hand Towels __ Wash Cloths __ Fingertip Towels __ Bath Sheets __ Tubmats __ Bathrobes/Slippers SHOWER CURTAINS __ Shower Curtain __ Curtain Liner __ Shower Curtain Rings RUGS __ Bath Rugs __ Decorative Area Rugs BATH ACCESSORIES __ Bath Scale __ Shower Heads/Massagers __ Wastebasket __ Soap Dish __ Tissue Holder __ Toothbrush Holder __ Tumbler __ Lotion Dispenser __ Cosmetic Mirror __ Hamper __ Towel Racks __ His/Her Shavers __ Hair Dryer __ Electric Toothbrush __ Bath Oil/Potpourri/Soap TABLE SETTINGS __ Casual/Formal Dinnerware __ Casual/Formal Completer Set __ China Savers __ Mugs __ Pasta Set __ Platters __ Salad Set __ Salt & Pepper Set __ Sugar & Creamer __ Butter Dish __ Teapot __ Gravy Boat

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Cake Plate Thermal Carafe Casual/Formal Flatware Casual/Formal Hostess Set Wine Cooler Wine Glasses Wine Rack Water Goblets Champagne/Flutes Juice Glasses Brandy Snifters Pilsners/Beer Mugs Cordials Double Old-Fashioneds Highballs Margarita Glasses Martini Glasses Cocktail Shaker Ice Bucket/Tongs Pitchers Wine Saver

KITCHEN LINENS __ Casual/Formal __ Casual/Formal __ Casual/Formal __ Table Runner __ Casual/Formal __ Apron __ Dish Towels __ Oven Mitts __ Kitchen Rug

Placemats Napkins Napkin Rings Tablecloth

SMALL APPLIANCES __ Coffeemaker/Grinder __ Espresso Machine __ Hand/Stand Mixers __ Juice Extractor __ Blender __ Bread Machine __ Can Opener __ Food Processor __ Crock Pot __ Popcorn Popper __ Rice Cooker/Steamer __ Toaster/Toaster Oven __ Waffle Iron __ Microwave __ Knife Sharpener COOKWARE __ Cookware Set __ Sauce Pans __ Sauté Pans __ Fry/Omelette Pans __ Double Boiler __ Dutch Oven __ Griddle __ Grill Pan __ Roasting Pan __ Roasting Rack __ Steamer Insert __ Stock Pot __ Casserole __ Wok/Stir Fry __ Pot Rack __ Tea Kettle __ Multi Cooker/Pasta Cooker __ Fondue Set __ Chef’s Knife

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Carving/Slicing Knife Paring Knife Cleaver Boning Knife Bread Knife Utility Knife Kitchen Shears Sharpening Steel Steak Knives Knife Block Knife Block Set Bundt Pan Cake Pans Pie Plates Casserole Cookie Sheets Jelly Roll Pan Loaf Pans Muffin Pans Pizza Pan/Stone Quiche Pan Spring Form Pan Tart Pan Soufflé Dish

DECORATIVE ITEMS __ CD Rack __ Clock __ Magazine Rack __ Bakers Rack __ Telephone/Answering Machine __ Microwave Cart __ Armoire __ TV Stand __ Wall Art __ Vases __ Lamp/Lamp Shade __ Candles/Candle Holder CLOSET ACCESSORIES __ Closet Organizer System __ Drawer Organizers __ Garment Bags/Racks __ Hangers __ Storage Boxes __ Shoe Racks __ Smoke Detector/Carbon Monoxide Detector KITCHEN GAGDETS __ Baster/Basting Brush __ Bottle Opener __ Can Opener __ Canister Set __ Citrus Set __ Citrus Reamer/Zester __ Coasters __ Coffee Press __ Colanders __ Corkscrew __ Cutting Boards __ Food Storage Containers __ Garlic Press __ Ice Cream Scoop __ Measuring Cups/Spoons __ Mixing Bowls __ Napkin Holder __ Pastry Brush __ Rolling Pin

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Salt/Peppermill Salad Spinner Flour Sifter Spatulas/Ladles Spice Rack Spoon Rest Stainless/Wooden Spoons Thermometer Kitchen Timer Trivets Tongs Utensil Jar Vegetable Peeler Water Filtration System Whisks

PHOTO ACCESSORIES __ Photo Albums __ Photo Storage Boxes __ Frames WINDOW ACCESSORIES __ Drapery Panels __ Decorative Rods and Finials __ Holdbacks/Tiebacks __ Valances __ Sheers __ Scarf Valances __ Kitchen Tiers CLEANING __ Vacuum __ Hand Vac __ Wet/Dry Vac __ Broom/Dust Pan __ Buckets/Mops __ Garbage Cans __ Step Stool __ Iron/Ironing Board __ Laundry Baskets __ Humidifier __ Air Purifier SPORTS & RECREATION ___ Exercise Equipment ___ Fishing Gear ___ Hiking Gear ___ Camping Equipment ___ Cooler ___ Binoculars ___ Golf Clubs ___ Tennis Rackets ___ Bicycles ___ Bicycle Rack ___ Bicycle Helmets ___ In-line Skates & Pads ___ Other Sporting Equipment TRAVEL ___ Luggage ___ Wheeled Carry-on ___ Carry-on Tote ___ Garment Bag ___ Duffel Bag ___ Luggage Cart ___ Travel Iron ___ Travel Steamer ___ Travel Alarm Clock ___ Travel Kits

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Company Name

Photographer #1

Photographer #2

Photographer #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How many years of experience do you have?

Do you have a business license?

Have you won any awards?

Do you belong to any national or local photography associations?

Who will actually be photographing my wedding?

Will there be an assistant on hand to help as well?

Do you have a standard shot/set up list?

Can I see samples from the photographer shooting my wedding?

Have you shot a wedding at my ceremony and/or reception location before?

How will you coordinate with the musician/videographer/reception facility?

Approximately how many pictures will you take during the day?

How many of those pictures will be in my proof album?

How many hours prior to the ceremony will you arrive?

How will you dress for the day?

What type of camera do you use?

How many cameras do you bring? Will there be a backup?

How new is the equipment?

Do you offer online photo showcasing & ordering?

How long does it take to get your proofs back after the wedding?

How long does it take it get final album after wedding?

How long are negatives stored after the wedding?

Can the negatives be purchased?

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer #1

Company Name

Photographer #2

Photographer #3

Is there an extra charge to shoot photos at a different location?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

What are your office hours?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a price list?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there overtime charges? If so, how much?

Is dinner expected for the photographer at the reception?

Are there any additional fees?

Is there a cancellation & refund policy?

What makes your services better or different from your competitors?

What else should I know about your service?

MY PHOTOGRAPHER IS:

Studio: ___________________ Photographer: ______________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Rehearsal - Arrival Time: _______ Ceremony - Arrival Time: ________ Reception - Arrival Time: _______ Rehearsal - Departure Time: _______ Ceremony - Departure Time: _______ Reception - Departure Time:_______ Special Arrangements or Location: _____________________________________________________________________ Special Photos: U Newspaper U Announcements

U Engagements Portraits

U Wedding Portraits

U Other

BRIDAL PLANNING TIP This guide will work best if mailed to wedding party with rehearsal dinner information, or passed out at rehearsal. Also, it helps to decide necessary means of transportation for all involved. Share this schedule with all of your vendors to ensure their involvement. Usually the day’s events will not work out exactly as you plan, but understanding the flow of your day helps you determine the details and time between activities. Assign bridesmaids or groomsmen the extras‌breakfast, snacks, refreshments, etc. along the way.

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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PORTRAIT WORKSHEET

Engagement Portrait Engagement Sitting Date ________________________ Location ________________________________ Sizes/Quantities/Package Description ______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Proofs Available on _______________ Finals Available On _______________Price _________________ Formal Wedding Portrait Formal Wedding Portrait Date ____________________ Location ________________________________ Sizes/Quantities/Package Description ______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Proofs Available on _______________ Finals Available On _______________Price _________________ Wedding Album Album Cover Style ______________________________ Color ___________________________________ Sizes/Quantities/Package Description ______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Price ___________________ Proofs/Viewing Available on _____________________ Completed Album on ______________________ Enlargements Ordered _____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ Available on______________Price _________________ Slide/Video Presentation Photos Needed __________________________________________________________________________ Music Selections _________________________________________________________________________ Shown At __________________________________________________ Price ________________________ Parents’ Albums Sizes/Quantities/Package Description ______________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Available on __________________ Price Each _________________ Number Needed ___________________ Total Price ________________ Additional Items Disposable Cameras - Price Each ___________ Number Needed ___________Total Price __________ Photo Invitations, Thank You Notes _________________________________________________________ Price Each ____________________ Number Needed __________________ Total Price ______________ Total _________________________ Deposit Paid ______________________ Date ___________________

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

PHOTOGRAPHY CHECKLIST

Must-Have Photos

On your wedding day, you’ll want to make sure your photographer captures those essential details you worked so hard on. To help him or her out, provide a list of “must-take” wedding photography shots. Check off your essentials below, and add any of your own creative ones. But don’t check off too many – you’ll want the photographer to have some time for creative license.

Wedding Photography Shots BEFORE THE CEREMONY ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

Wedding dress lying over a chair Zipping up or buttoning the wedding dress Mother of the bride fastening the bride’s necklace The bride’s garter The bride’s veil A close up of the bride’s shoes peeking out from under the dress Bride looking into a mirror Bride looking out window Bride and bridesmaids putting on makeup Bride pinning corsage/boutonniere on mother/father Bride hugging parents Bride touching up Bride and parents leaving for ceremony Groom tying tie Groom looking into mirror Bride looking out window Groom pinning corsage/boutonniere on mother/father Groom hugging parents Bride and parents leaving for ceremony

Wedding Photography Shots AT THE CEREMONY ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

Outside of ceremony site Guests walking into ceremony site Bride and father entering ceremony site Parents being seated Grandparents being seated Maid of honor walking down the aisle Bridesmaids walking down the aisle Flower girl and ring bearer walking down aisle Groom waiting for bride Ceremony musicians Officiant Altar or canopy during ceremony Close up of bride, just before she makes her entrance Bride and father walking down aisle Groom seeing bride for first time The back of bride and father walking down the aisle Bride’s father and Bride hugging at end of aisle Shot of the audience from the bride and groom’s point of view The unity ceremony Close up of bride and groom saying the vows Wide shot of bride and groom saying the vows Exchanging the rings Close up of hands The kiss Bride & Groom walking up the aisle Receiving line Bride & Groom outside on steps Guests throwing confetti/rose petals/birdseed Bride & Groom hugging guests, laughing, getting congratulations Bride & Groom getting in car Bride & Groom in back seat

Posed Wedding Photography BEFORE THE RECEPTION ___ Bride alone (full length) ___ Bride with Maid of Honor ___ Bride with bridesmaids

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

Groom with bridesmaids Bride with parents Bride & Groom together Bride & Groom with parents Bride & Groom with families Bride & Groom with entire wedding party Bride & Groom with flower girl and ringbearer Groom with parents Groom with best man Groom with groomsmen Bride with groomsmen

DURING THE RECEPTION ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___

Outside of reception site Bride & Groom arriving Bride & Groom greeting guests Table centerpieces Table setting Bride & Groom’s table (head table) Musicians or DJ Guest book Place card table Closeup of bride and groom’s place card Wedding cake Groom’s cake Gift table Decorations (specify which _________________________) A shot of bride & groom with guests at each table Bride with college alums Groom with college alums The buffet or, if having table service, a dinner serving Bride & Groom’s first dance Bride & Father dancing Groom & Mother dancing Guests dancing Bride & Groom cutting the cake Bride & Groom feeding each other cake Toasts (specify who is giving them: ____________________) Bride & Groom drinking champagne Signing the marriage license Bride throwing bouquet Groom retrieving garter Groom tossing garter Garter/Bouquet dance The getaway car Bride & Groom leaving party Bride & Groom driving away

Guests the photographer shouldn’t miss: (provide your photographer with a seating chart so that he can easily identify them) ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

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VIDEOGRAPHY

Company Name

Videographer #1

Videographer #2

Videographer #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail

How many years of wedding experience?

Have you won any awards?

Do you belong to any national or local professional videography associations?

Who will actually be videotaping my wedding?

Will there be an assistant on hand to help as well?

What form will the final video be in (DVD, VHS?) Is a case provided?

Do you have a standard scene/setup list?

Can I see samples of the videographer’s work who is shooting my wedding?

Will you interview the wedding party and guests during the reception?

Have you taped a wedding at my ceremony and/or reception location before?

How will you coordinate with the other wedding services?

How many hours prior to the ceremony will you arrive?

How will you dress for the day?

What type of camera do you use?

How many cameras do you bring? Will there be a backup?

How new is the equipment?

Do you provide one or two camera coverage?

What is the average length (time) of the final video?

Can we purchase a complete unedited version?

When is the deposit and final payment due?

How long does it take it get final video after wedding?

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

VIDEOGRAPHY

Company Name

Videographer #1

Videographer #2

Videographer #3

When is the deposit & final payment due?

What are your office hours?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a price list?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there overtime charges? If so, how much?

Is dinner expected for the videographer at the reception?

Are there any additional fees?

Is there a cancellation & refund policy?

What makes your services better or different from your competitors?

What else should I know about your service?

MY VIDEOGRAPHER IS:

Studio: ____________________ Videographer: ______________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Rehearsal - Arrival Time: _______ Ceremony - Arrival Time: ________ Reception - Arrival Time: _______ Rehearsal - Departure Time: _______ Ceremony - Departure Time: _______ Reception - Departure Time:_______ Special Arrangements or Location: _____________________________________________________________________

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Store Name

Bridal Salon #1

Bridal Salon #2

Bridal Salon #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How long have you been in business?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

Is the owner on-premise to help if needed?

Can I purchase the gown off the rack or order only?

How long does it take for an ordered gown to arrive?

Do you have on-site alterations?

How long do alterations take? How many fittings?

Can extra fabric be ordered if needed?

Is a garment bag & steaming included?

Are you an authorized dealer for the gown designers you sell?

Will I have the same gown consultant each time I come in?

Are there discounts for the bridal party?

Will my bridesmaid’s dress be pressed before pickup?

Do you sell flower girl and mother-of dresses as well?

Can you dye my bridesmaid’s and flower girl shoes?

What accessories do you sell? (slip, veil, shoes, jewelry, etc.)

MY BRIDAL SALON IS: Company: ___________________________ Contact: ____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: ____________ Email: ________________________ Website: ______________________________ Gown Style: _______________________ Size: _________ Color: ___________ Headpiece: ___________________ Order Date: ______________ Approx. Delivery Date: _________________ Alterations: ________________________ Accessories: U Necklace U Shoes U Earrings U Gloves U Purse U Hosiery U Lingerie U Slip U 2 Garters 28

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

BRIDAL ATTIRE

Bridal Salon #1

Company Name

Bridal Salon #2

Bridal Salon #3

Do you provide gown preservation and cleaning?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

What are your hours?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have any packages?

Are the taxes included in the price?

What are the alteration charges?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

What makes your services better or different from your competitors?

What else should we know about your services?

BRIDESMAID/FLOWER GIRL ATTIRE: Company: ____________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Gown Style #: _______________________ Cost: ___________________________ Color: _____________________ Flowergirl Dress Style #: _______________ Cost: _________________________ Color: _______________________ Accessories: U Jewelry U Shoes JEWELRY:

U Hosiery

U Gloves

U Purse

Company: ______________________________________ Contact: _____________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Her Size: ____________ Appraisal: ________________ His Size: _____________ Appraisal:__________________ Are your rings insured?: U yes U no MY BEAUTY SALON IS: Salon: ____________________________ Beauty Professional: _________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Email: ____________________________________ Website: _______________________________________ Appointment Date: ___________________ Time: _________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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MUSICIANS & DJs

Company Name

Musician/DJ #1

Musician/DJ #2

Musician/DJ #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail

How many years of wedding experience do you have?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

Do you have a business license?

Do you have liability insurance?

Who will actually be performing at my wedding?

Are we able to meet with the musician/DJ that will be performing at our wedding?

If the musician we selected no longer works for you, what do you do?

Will there be an assistant to help as well?

Do you have a demo for review?

Do you provide auditions? If so, is there a charge?

Do you have a standard music list?

How many songs do you have in your music library?

Will you provide special music upon request?

Have you performed a wedding at my ceremony and/or reception location before?

How do they coordinate with other wedding vendors?

When will you arrive?

What setup requirements to you have?

How much space do you require?

How many minutes per hour do you require for breaks?

Will there be recorded music during the breaks?

Does the musician emcee the reception?

How does the musician dress?

What format is the music? (tapes, CD’s, etc.)

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

MUSICIANS & DJs

Company Name

Musician/DJ #1

Musician/DJ #2

Musician/DJ #3

How new is the equipment?

What is your backup equipment policy?

Do you have a wireless microphone for speeches and toasts?

What type of lighting do you have available?

What types of special effects can you provide?

Are there additional charges for travel time and/or setup?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a list of packages?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any overtime charges? If so, how much?

Is dinner expected for the musician(s) at the reception?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

What else should we know about your services?

RECEPTION MUSIC: Company/Band: ________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Names of DJs/Musicians: ___________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Arrival time: ________________ Departure time: _______________ Last Song Time: __________________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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WEDDING CAKES

Company Name

Bakery #1

Bakery #2

Bakery #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How long have you been in business?

How many years of wedding experience?

Do you have a business license?

Are you licensed by the State Health Department?

Have you won any awards?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

How far in advance should I book your bakery?

How do you coordinate with the other wedding services?

Is there a taste test available for the cake flavors? Is there a charge for this?

Do you have a display or photographs of your wedding cakes to view?

Do you have set styles to choose from or can you customize?

How far in advance are the cakes prepared?

Are the cakes ever frozen?

How many cakes do you prepare in a weekend?

Can you match the color of the cake to a fabric swatch?

What flavors of cake and fillings do you offer?

Who handles the decorating, and when will it be done?

Do you provide cake cutting service - is this an extra charge?

Do you have cake toppers and cake knifes?

Do you provide the box and wrapping for the top tier to be stored after our wedding?

Do you sell cookie trays?

Do you sell favors?

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

WEDDING CAKES

Company Name

Bakery #1

Bakery #2

Bakery #3

When is final head count due?

How early before the reception will the cake be delivered and setup?

Is there a delivery or setup charge?

Are cakes priced by the slice?

Are different flavors or fillings priced differently?

What rental fees are required for pillars, fountains, etc.?

When would these items need to be returned?

Any discounts for Friday night or Sunday afternoon receptions?

Are there savings for having an “off season� reception (Nov-April)?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a list of packages?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

MY BAKERY IS: Company: __________________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Wedding Cake: # of Servings: _____________________________# of Tiers: _______Shape(s): _______________ Flavor(s): _________________________________________________________________________________________ Filling(s): ____________ Icing Flavor: _____________ Delivery Time: _____________ Extra Cost: _____________ Extras: U Cookies/Parties U Cake Topper U Box for Top Tier U Fountain U Cake Server U Mints/Nuts/Candies U Grooms Cake

FAVORS/CANDIES:

Company: ____________________________ Contact: _____________________

Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Syle: ________________ Colors: ___________________ Favors: ______________ Quantity: ___________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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FLOWERS & DECORATIONS

Company Name

Company #1

Company #2

Company #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How long have you been in business?

How many years of wedding experience?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

How far in advance should I commit?

How do you coordinate with the other wedding services?

How many weddings do you do per day?

How large is your staff and who will work with my wedding?

Can you work with fresh & silk flowers?

Do you have photographs or live examples of your wedding bouquets?

What type of design do you specialize in?

What type of flowers would you recommend for me at my location, time of year and wedding colors?

What is your flower substitution policy, if my chosen flowers are not available?

Who would be doing the decorating?

Can you decorate my cake with flowers?

When will you deliver to the ceremony and/or reception?

Is there a delivery or setup charge?

When do items need to be returned?

What is your policy for lost and/or damaged items?

Will you stay at the ceremony for arranging and distributing the bouquets?

Will you transfer the arrangements to the reception site after the ceremony?

Have you done weddings before at my ceremony and/or reception site?

Any discounts for Friday night or Sunday afternoon receptions?

Are there savings, having an “off season� reception (Nov-April)?

34

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

FLOWERS & DECORATIONS

Company Name

Company #1

Company #2

Company #3

Will you visit my ceremony and/or reception site for ideas?

What other wedding accessories do you sell and/or rent?

Do you provide flower preservation services?

How soon after the wedding should I preserve my bouquet?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a list of packages?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

What else should we know about your services?

MY FLORIST IS: Company: __________________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Delivery Time (Ceremony): ________________________ Delivery Time (Reception): __________________________ Ceremony Flowers: U Pew Decorations U Grandparents’ Flowers U Groom’s Boutonniere U Parents’ Flowers U Groomsmen’s Boutonnieres U Altar Arrangements U Flower Girl’s Basket U Bridesmaids’ Bouquets U Bridal Bouquet U Ring Bearer’s Pillow U Special Helpers U Musician U Mother’s Roses U Officiant U Other ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Reception Flowers: U Head Table U Cake Table U Buffet Table U Toss Bouquet U Room Arrangements U Centerpieces U Gift Tables

Wedding Colors: _______________________________________Wedding Flowers:______________________________________

RENTAL/DECORATING: Company: _________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Ceremony Selections: _______________________________________________________________________________ Reception Selections: _______________________________________________________________________________ Delivery Date: ___________________________________ Pickup Date: _____________________________________ MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

35

TUXEDOS

Tuxedo Shop #1

Company Name

Tuxedo Shop #2

Tuxedo Shop #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail Do you sell tuxedos or rent only?

How long does it take for an ordered tuxedo to arrive?

Are rental tuxedos in stock?

Do you offer on-site alterations?

How long do alterations take? How many fittings?

Are there discounts for the wedding party?

How can out-of-town groomsmen get fitted?

Do you rent ringbearer and father-of tuxedos as well?

What accessories do you sell or rent?

What are your measurement polices? (when, where, etc.)

What does your complete tuxedo ensemble include?

When will the tuxedos be ready for pickup?

What happens if a tuxedo doesn’t fit when it’s picked up?

When do the tuxedos have to be returned?

Do you have optional insurance to cover damage to the tuxedos?

What is your policy in regards to damage and/or loss of the tuxedo?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

MY FORMALWEAR SHOP IS: ______________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Groom’s Attire: Coat Style/Color: _____________ Pant Style/Color: ______________ Shirt Style/Color: ______________ Vest/Cumberbund Style/Color: ____________ Tie Style/Color: _____________Shoes Style/Color: _____________ Accessories: ____________________________ Pickup Date: _________________Return Date: ___________________ U Groomsmen

36

U Fathers

U Godfathers

U Ring Bearer

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

INVITATIONS

Company Name

Stationer #1

Stationer #2

Stationer #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail How long have you been in business?

Can you recommend a calligrapher?

Will you guide us in selecting appropriate verses?

Do you offer a discount? If so, how much?

Will you instruct us on how to assemble the invitations?

How far in advance should I order?

Do you provide envelope addressing guidelines?

Is there a delivery or setup charge?

What would the postage be for invitations I’m interested in?

What is the cost to order extra’s later?

Do you sell “save-the-date” cards?

Who is responsible for errors?

How long will it take to receive my invitations?

What other wedding accessories do you sell and/or rent?

Should I order extra outer and inner envelopes?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

MY STATIONER IS: Company: _______________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Order Date: ___________Approx. Delivery Date:___________ Invitation Book Name: ___________ Page #: ___________ Paper Color: ____________________Ink Color: ______________________ Lettering Style:______________________ #of Stamps Needed: _____________________________ Total Cost: _______________________________________ Quantity Needed: _____ Invitations _____ Lined Envelopes _____ Return Address _____ Extra Envelopes _____ Return Cards _____ Map Cards _____ Response Cards _____ Accommodation Cards _____ Place Cards _____ Menu Cards _____ Informal/Thank Yous _____ Programs _____ Shower/Rehearsal Invitations Acccessories: _____ Napkins _____ Matches/Match Books _____ Cake/Candy Boxes

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

37

INVITATIONS

INVITATION WORDING ASSISTANCE It’s an ageless question: How exactly do I word my invitations? As most newly engaged couples know, this can be a tricky subject because what’s read between the lines is who’s hosting (in other words, paying for) the wedding. Fortunately, many of today’s etiquette rules are versatile. But before you can tweak the rules to meet your unique wording needs, you first have to understand the rules. The following pages will guide through the basics of a traditionally-worded invite.

FROM BRIDE’S PARENTS (in a house of worship) (Bride’s Parents) request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter (Bride First & Middle) to (Groom First, Middle & Last) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) FROM BRIDE’S PARENTS (in a house of worship) (Bride’s Parents) invite you to share in the joy of the marriage uniting their daughter (Bride First & Middle) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) -- OR -(Bride’s Parents) request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter (Bride First & Middle) to (Groom First, Middle & Last) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) WITH MENTION OF GROOM’S PARENTS (Bride’s Parents) request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter (Bride First & Middle) to (Groom First & Middle) son of (Groom’s Parents) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) FROM BOTH PARENTS (Bride’s Parents) and (Groom’s Parents) request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their children

38

(Bride First & Middle) and (Groom First & Middle) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) FROM COUPLE & PARENTS (without parent’s names) Together with their parents (Bride First, Middle & Last) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) request the honour of your presence at their marriage celebration (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) FROM COUPLE & PARENTS (with parent’s names) (Bride First, Middle & Last) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) together with their parents (Parents) and (Parents) request the honour of your presence at their marriage celebration (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) FROM BRIDE & GROOM (Bride First, Middle & Last) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) request the honour of your presence at their marriage (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State) –OR– The pleasure of your company is requested at the marriage of (Bride First, Middle & Last) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) (Day), the (Month) of (date) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State)

ENVELOPE ADDRESSING EXPLAINED When addressing your invitation envelopes use your most elegant penmanship; or try hiring a professional calligrapher to pen the names of your invited guests. If you’re trying your own hand at the task, know the proper procedure.

ADDRESS YOUR ENVELOPES ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING ETIQUETTE:

the Outer Envelope This is where you write the recipients’ full names, official titles, first names, and the rest. It’s where tradition is upheld, decorum celebrated; that means no cutting corners with abbreviations like Dr., NY, or St. (Mrs., Mr., Ms., and Jr. are the only acceptable shorthands).

Here’s a complete set of rules: UĂŠ/ÂˆĂŒÂ?iĂƒĂŠĂƒĂ•VÂ…ĂŠ>ĂƒĂŠ ÂœVĂŒÂœĂ€]ĂŠ,iĂ›iĂ€i˜`]ĂŠ >ÂŤĂŒ>ˆ˜]ĂŠiĂŒV°Ê>Ă€iĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠ abbreviated unless lack of space necessitates it.

UĂŠ ÂˆĂƒĂŒiÀÊ>˜`ĂŠ ÂˆĂƒĂƒiĂƒĂŠĂƒÂ…ÂœĂ•Â?`ĂŠLiĂŠ>LLĂ€iĂ›Âˆ>ĂŒi`Ê­ À°Ê>˜`ĂŠ Ă€ĂƒÂ°ÂŽÂ° UĂŠ ÂœĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠĂ•ĂƒiĂŠÂˆÂ˜ÂˆĂŒÂˆ>Â?ĂƒĂŠÂœĂ€ĂŠÂ˜ÂˆVŽ˜>“iĂƒĂ†ĂŠĂ•ĂƒiĂŠvĂ•Â?Â?ĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒÂ° UĂŠ vĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠĂ•Â˜Â“>Ă€Ă€Âˆi`ĂŠVÂœĂ•ÂŤÂ?iĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂƒ>“iĂŠÂ…ÂœĂ•ĂƒiĂŠĂŒÂ…iÂˆĂ€ĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒĂŠĂŠ should be on separate lines, woman are always listed first.

UĂŠ ÂœĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠ>``ĂŠÂş>˜`ĂŠv>“ˆÂ?ޝÆÊV…ˆÂ?`Ă€iÂ˜Â˝ĂƒĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒĂŠ>Ă€iĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂƒĂŒi`ĂŠÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂŠĂŠ inner envelope.

UĂŠ7Ă€ÂˆĂŒiĂŠÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂœÂœĂ€`ĂŠÂş>˜`ÆÊ`ÂœĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠĂ•ĂƒiĂŠĂƒĂžÂ“LÂœÂ?ĂƒÂ° UĂŠ-Ă•vwĂ?iĂƒĂŠ>Ă€iĂŠ>Â?Â?ĂŠÂŤĂ€ÂœÂŤiĂ€Â?ĂžĂŠÂŤĂ€ÂœVii`i`ĂŠLÞÊ>ĂŠVœ““>]ĂŠÂˆÂ˜VÂ?Ă•`ˆ˜}ĂŠ Roman numerals.

UĂŠ Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠĂƒiÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠV>Â˜ĂŠLiĂŠĂƒÂŤiÂ?Â?i`ĂŠÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠÂ­Â?Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠÂœĂ€ĂŠĂƒiÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠÂ‡ĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠ capitalized) or abbreviated (Jr. or Sr. - capitalized) use whichever style you prefer.

UĂŠ7Â…iÂ˜ĂŠ>``Ă€iĂƒĂƒÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂœĂ•ĂŒiÀÊiÂ˜Ă›iÂ?ÂœÂŤiĂŠĂœĂ€ÂˆĂŒiĂŠÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠ-ĂŒĂ€iiĂŒ]ĂŠ Ă›iÂ˜Ă•i]ĂŠĂŠ or Boulevard.

UĂŠ ÂœÂ“ÂŤÂ?iĂŒiÂ?ĂžĂŠĂƒÂŤiÂ?Â?ĂŠÂœĂ•ĂŒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂƒĂŒ>ĂŒiĂŠÂ˜>“i° UĂŠ ÂœĂ€ĂŒÂ…ĂŠ>˜`ĂŠ-ÂœĂ•ĂŒÂ…ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂœĂ€ÂˆĂŒĂŒiÂ˜ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠvĂ•Â?Â?ĂŠÂˆvĂŠÂˆĂŒĂŠÂŤĂ€ÂœVii`ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂƒĂŒĂ€iiĂŒĂŠÂ˜>“iĂŠĂŠ (123 South Main Street); a comma is added after the street name and an abbreviation is used if it comes after the address (123 Cherry Street, N.W.).

the Inner Envelope Formal invitations are slipped into an unsealed inner envelope to be placed inside the outer envelope. They are addressed in a more informal fashion -- typically only title abbreviations and last name -- and include the names of all invitees at the address, including children.

Here are some general guidelines.

UĂŠ Ă?VÂ?Ă•`iĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠwĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂ€iVÂˆÂŤÂˆiÂ˜ĂŒĂƒÂ° UĂŠ7Ă€ÂˆĂŒiĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠwĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠV…ˆÂ?`Ă€iÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠLiĂŠÂˆÂ˜Ă›ÂˆĂŒi`ĂŠLiÂ?ÂœĂœĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ parents’ name in order of age, oldest first.

UĂŠ …ˆÂ?`Ă€iÂ˜ĂŠÂœĂ›iĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ>}iĂŠÂœvĂŠÂŁnĂŠĂƒÂ…ÂœĂ•Â?`ĂŠĂ€iViÂˆĂ›iĂŠĂŒÂ…iÂˆĂ€ĂŠÂœĂœÂ˜ĂŠÂˆÂ˜Ă›ÂˆĂŒ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Â° UĂŠ"Â“ÂˆĂŒĂŠV…ˆÂ?`Ă€iÂ˜Â˝ĂƒĂŠÂ˜>“iĂƒĂŠÂˆvĂŠĂŒÂ…iÞÊ>Ă€iĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ}Ă•iĂƒĂŒĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂƒĂŒÂ° UĂŠ vĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠÂˆÂ˜Ă›ÂˆĂŒ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>ĂŠĂƒÂˆÂ˜}Â?iĂŠ}Ă•iĂƒĂŒĂŠiĂ?ĂŒi˜`ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠĂ•Â˜ÂŽÂ˜ÂœĂœÂ˜ĂŠiĂƒVÂœĂ€ĂŒ]ĂŠĂŠ address the inner envelope with your friend’s name followed by “and guestâ€? (guest should not be capitalized, it is not a proper noun)

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

INVITATIONS

DIVORCED PARENTS Divorced parents should not be listed on the same line. Women are listed first:

FEEL OVERWHELMED BY THE THOUGHT OF HAVING TO ADDRESS ALL YOUR ENVELOPES? REFERENCE THE FOLLOWING FORMATS TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS WITH EASE:

(Bride’s mother/stepfather) (Bride’s father/stepmother) request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter (Bride First & Middle) to (Groom First, Middle & Last) son of (Bride’s mother/stepfather) (Bride’s father/stepmother) (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State)

MARRIED COUPLE Outer Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Smith

MARRIED COUPLE

RECEPTION ONLY

UNMARRIED COUPLE

BROTHERS

Outer Envelope: Ms. Michele Janson Mr. Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Ms. Janson Mr. Smith

Outer Envelope: Messrs. Joseph and Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: The Messrs. Davis

(same as household)

(with children under 18 living at home)

Outer Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Smith Abby and Joseph

(Bride First, Middle & Last) and (Groom First, Middle & Last) were united in marriage on (Day), the (date) of (Month) (year) The pleasure of your company is requested at a Reception (Day), the (date) of (Month) at (time) (Location) (Address) (City, State)

SISTERS

(same residence over 18 years)

Outer Envelope: Misses Abby and Anne Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: The Misses Smith

RESPONSE VERSES The favour of a reply is requested before (date) M_________________________ Number attending __ Unable to attend __

MARRIED COUPLE

– OR –

(woman is a doctor)

We look forward to celebrating with you Please respond by (date) Name __________________________ __ accepts __ regrets Please indicate number of each: ___ (entree) ___ (entree) -- or begin with -Please reply by

Outer Envelope: Doctor Michele Janson Smith Mr. Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Doctor and Mr. Smith

– OR – Kindly respond on or before

(same residence over 18 years)

MARRIED COUPLE (both are doctors)

WIDOW Outer Envelope: Mrs. Steven Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Mrs. Smith

Outer Envelope: The Doctors Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: The Doctors Smith

SINGLE PERSON (with unknown guest)

MARRIED COUPLE

(with children under 18, outer envelope only)

Single Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Smith Abby and Joseph 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345

"6 ,Ê£nÊ 6 Ê7 / Ê PARENTS Outer Envelope: Miss (or Ms.) Abby Smith Mr. Joseph Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Miss (or Ms.) Smith Mr. Smith

Outer Envelope: Ms. Michele Smith 123 E. Main St. Anytown, State 12345 Inner Envelope: Ms. Smith and guest

DIVORCED WOMAN

(maiden name or first name followed by married name)

Outer Envelope: Mrs. Janson Smith or Ms. Michelle Smith Inner Envelope: Mrs. Smith or Ms. Smith

VERSE ETIQUETTE UÊÊ“request the honour or your presence” is used on an invitation to a wedding that is located in a house of worship UÊ“request the pleasure of your company” is used on an invitation that is located outside a house of worship; it is also used on the reception invitation UÊÌ iÊLÀ `iÊ> `Ê}À ½ÃÊ `` iÊ > iÃÊ>Ài included, however, their parents’ middle names are not necessary UÊ > vÊ ÕÀÃÊ>ÀiÊÜÀ ÌÌi Ê>Ãʺ > vÊ>vÌiÀÊv ÕÀÊ ½V V »

UʺiÛi }»ÊLi} ÃÊ>ÌÊà ÝÊ ½V V UÊ>ÌÊwÛiÊ ½V V Ê ÊÌ iÊ>vÌiÀ UÊ>ÌÊà ÝÊ ½V V Ê ÊÌ iÊiÛi } UÊÌ iÊÞi>ÀÊÃ Õ `Ê ÌÊLiÊV>« Ì> âi`]Ê ÜiÛiÀ]Ê ÌÊ ÃÊÊ commonly shown that way UÊâ «ÊV `iÃÊ>ÀiÊ ÌÊ V Õ`i`Ê ÊÌ iÊ Û Ì>Ì Ê ÀÊ reception card UÊ«Õ VÌÕ>Ì Ê ÃÊ ÌÊÕÃi`ÊiÝVi«ÌÊv ÀÊ>LLÀiÛ >Ì ÃÊ such as “Mr. or Mrs.” and for separating a phrase UÊ ÃÌiÀÊ­ À°®Ê> `Ê ÃÃiÃÊ­ Àð®Ê>ÀiÊ>LLÀiÛ >Ìi`]Ê however, Doctor, Reverend, and Captain should

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

be written in full UÊ ÀÌ Ê> `Ê- ÕÌ Ê ÃÊÜÀ ÌÌi Ê ÊvÕ Ê vÊ ÌÊ«ÀiVi`iÃÊ the street name (123 South Main Street); a comma is added after the street name and an abbreviation is used if it comes after the address (123 Main Street, N.W.) UÊ Õ LiÀÃÊ>ÀiÊÜÀ ÌÌi Ê ÕÌÊiÝVi«ÌÊv ÀÊÌ iÊÃÌÀiiÌÊÊ address; the number is written out if the number is less than 10 UÊ> Ê Û Ì>Ì ÊÌ ÊÌ iÊViÀi ÞÊ> iÊ` iÃÊ ÌÊ require a response card

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TRANSPORTATION

Company Name

Company #1

Company #2

Company #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail

How long have you been in business?

Do you have a business license?

Do you have a livery sticker on the limousines? (proof of insurance) Belong to any national or local professional associations?

How far in advance should I book?

How many weddings do you book per day?

What is your vehicle substitution policy?

Do you own your own vehicles?

What year, make, colors & models of limousines do you have available?

What is your backup plan, if the car breaks down?

What decorating can we do?

Is there a smoking policy?

Who will be the chauffeur? Will their personal cell phone be available in case of emergency?

What is the dress attire of the chauffeur?

How many people will comfortably fit in the vehicle?

Can we eat and drink alcohol in the car?

What type of music players are in the car?

(CD, DVD, etc.)

Is there a minimum number of hours required to book your service?

Any discounts for Friday night or Sunday afternoon receptions?

Are there savings for an “off season� wedding (April-Nov)?

What extra amenities are includes in the price? (champagne, sign, decorations, etc.)

Do you offer other transportation options for guests (shuttling to/from hotel, etc.)?

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MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

TRANSPORTATION

Company Name

Company #1

Company #2

Company #3

Can I see the actual car that we will be renting?

What if we need the car longer than anticipated, what is the overtime charge?

For horse carriages, do you have retractable tops and windows for bad weather?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have a written contract?

What is your guarantee?

Do you have a list of packages?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

What else should we know about your services?

MY TRANSPORTATION IS: Company: _________________________________ Contact: ______________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ Rate: ___________Hours Rented: ____________ Driver: ____________________Vehicle ID#: ___________

OUT-OF-TOWN GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS: Company: ______________________________________ Contact: _________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Email: ________________________________ Website: ___________________________________________ Contact: ________Rate: ____________________ # of Rooms Reserved: _____________________________ Deadline to book rooms: ____________________________________________________________________

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

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HONEYMOON

Company Name

Travel Agency #1

Travel Agency #2

Tuxedo Shop #3

Contact Name Address Telephone Website/E-Mail

How long have you been in business?

Belong to any national or local professional associations?

How far in advance should I book our honeymoon?

Do you recommend one property or resort over another? If so, why?

Do you charge a booking fee?

Does my honeymoon destination offer special package deals?

Can you provide customized trips?

What travel services can you book? (air, cars, hotel, excursions, etc.)

Are you available in case of an emergency during our trip?

Do you specialize in leisure travel or business travel?

Do you have a honeymoon registry?

Why should I book with you vs. the Internet?

When is the deposit & final payment due?

Do you have a written contract?

Do you provide currency change and/or traveler’s checks?

Do you offer travel insurance?

Are taxes & gratuity included in the price?

Are there any additional fees?

Cancellation and refund policy?

Can you provide three references?

MY TRAVEL AGENCY IS: Company:__________________________ Contact: _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Hours: _____________Email: ___________________________ Website: ___________________________ 42

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

HONEYMOON

TRAVEL ITINERARY WEDDING NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS: Location: ___________________________ Address: ___________________________ Contact: ___________________________ Phone:_____________________________ Website: ___________________________ E-mail: _____________________________ IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER U Passport U Visa U Photo ID U Vaccinations U Travelers Cheques U Tickets U Itinerary HONEYMOON: Destination: ________________________ Date of Departure: __________________ Date of Return:______________________ Airline: ____________________________ Departing From: ____________________ Arrive At: __________________________

CARRY ON BAGGAGE: Names and phone numbers of people to contact in case of an emergency.

Cash, credit cards and traveler’s checks Small US currency for tipping Passport/visa and/or driver’s license Travelers checks’ serial numbers Complete travel itinerary with addresses, phones #’s and confirmation numbers Airline tickets Photocopies of all the above items as well credit card contact phone numbers to keep in hotel safe Thank you notes Prescription medication Medical cards and physicians phone numbers Phone numbers to the local US embassy Overnight toiletries and one casual outfit Camera Cell phone and charger iPod/MP3 player Maps Antibacterial wipes Currency converter chart or pocket calculator Foreign language dictionary Travel guide book Reading material Eyeglasses/sunglasses/contact lenses Gum and/breath mints Motion sickness medicine CHECKED BAGGAGE/COSMETIC BAG:

HOTEL/RESORT: Confirmation #: ____________________ Address: ___________________________ Phone:_____________________________ Website: ___________________________ E-mail: _____________________________ CAR RENTAL: Address: ___________________________ Phone:_____________________________ Website: ___________________________ E-mail: _____________________________

Basic toiletries (shampoo, deodorant, razors, etc.)

Makeup bag Perfume Insect repellent and anti-itch cream Band aids Aspirin Vitamins Sunscreen lotions and aloe vera Chap stick Antacid Antihistamine Diarrhea medicine Birth control Feminine hygiene products CLOTHING:

Dressy shorts/pants/top/dresses Jackets/blazers/ties Outdoor jackets/sweaters Sweatshirts/sweatsuits Belts Socks/hosiery Shoes Underwear/panties & bras Walking shoes/sandals/loafers Athletic shorts/tops & athletic shoes Swim suits, swim suit cover-up Sun hat or baseball cap Accessories/jewelry Pajamas OTHER ITEMS: Backpack and/or beach bag and purse Honeymoon gift for your spouse Extra tote bag for bringing home new items Extra film and camera batteries Shout wipes (instant stain remover towelettes) Plastic trash bags for dirty laundry Small sewing kit and safety pins Electrical converter/adapter Travel alarm clock and iron Umbrella Video camera and tapes DOCUMENTS TO LEAVE with a trusted contact person: Complete travel itinerary with addresses, phones #’s and confirmation numbers Copy of credit cards numbers, travelers check numbers and passport/drivers license Copy of your wills, life insurance-policy numbers, and pertinent financial info NEED TO DO BEFORE LEAVING: Get passport and travel documents Stop mail collection Stop newspaper and other deliveries Leave contact information with neighbors Coordinate pet care Water plants Set light timers Clean out refrigerator Empty garbage containers Lock all doors and windows Set security alarm

Casual shorts/pants/tops

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER

43

REHEARSAL DINNER

Rehearsal Rehearsal Date ______________________ Location _____________________________________________ Time _______________________________Approxiimate Length of Rehearsal _______________________ Directions to Rehearsal Site _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Rehearsal Dinner Rehearsal Dinner Facility _____________________________________________Phone ________________ Address ____________________________________________________State ___________Zip__________ Consultant __________________________________________________Business Hours________________ Website __________________________________ E-mail Address _________________________________ Rehearsal Dinner Date ___________________________Location ___________________________ Time___________________________________________Formal/Informal ____________________ Menu to Include ____________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Cash or Open Bar__________________________________________________________________ Price per Person_________________________________Total Pice __________________________ Guest List _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Total # of Adults_______________________ Total # of Children ____________________________ Total ____________________________ Deposit Paid _______________ Date __________________ Balance Due_____________________ Balance Due on or Before __________________________ Make Checks Payable To: ___________________________________________________________ Cancellations Policies & Notes _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 44

MY COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNER