Today's Bride 2018-2019 Akron/Canton

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Hilton Akron/Fairlawn Hotel and Suites

Love At First Sight

NORTHEAST OHIO’S MOST ELEGANT BALLROOM One look at our stunning Grand Ballroom and we think you will instantly fall in love with its three crystal chandeliers, 18 ft. ceilings and gorgeous patterned carpet. You’ve already found the perfect person and now the perfect place. We understand the big day and realize that love is in the details. Let our staff of professionals take care of all the details and you just take care of each other. Contact one of our Wedding Professionals at 330-867-5000 or email breighann.donald@hilton.com to schedule a tour of our elegant facilities.

Visit us at www.hiltonreceptions.com Located on the Hilton Campus in Fairlawn 3180 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44333


Expert Alterations

Anytime You Need It. Expert Tailors + Seamstresses O P E N S I X D AY S A W E E K Professional Fittings No Appointment Needed Monday -Friday 8am-7pm Saturdays 8am-6pm

Clothing Care Specialists. Expert Dry Cleaning. Akron/Fairlawn

2965 West Market Street near Talbots® 1/4 mile south of Summit Mall 330-836-0004

North Canton

4410 Belden Village Street across from Westfield Mall next to CiCi’s Pizza® 330-493-8701

Mayfield Heights

Wedding Gown Preservation. Woodmere

6570 Mayfield Road former Mattress Firm® building, near Walmart® 440-460-1073

27083 Chagrin Blvd. Village Square near Whole Foods® Corky & Lenny’s® 216-896-9331

Strongsville

North Olmsted

NEWEST LOCATION

17240 Royalton Road across from Southpark Mall near Panera Bread® next to Men’s Wearhouse® 440-846-1744

23420 Lorain Road near Starbucks® at the corner of Clague Road 440-801-1240

Austintown

Boardman

Niles

Also in Pittsburgh

5513 Mahoning Avenue Weston Center near Panera Bread® 330-792-4255

6285 Yo.-Warren Rd. Gentry Plaza Route 422 @ Route 46 across from Marc’s® 330-544-0012

845 Boardman-Poland Rd. Route 224 near South Ave. next to Olive Garden® 330-758-1075

- Bridgeville - East Liberty - North Hills - Warrendale

Fast. Professional. And Affordable. Visit our website for maps and locator @ www.alterations-express.com


Let’s get married in

akron/canton

H

2019

table of contents

Being engaged is supposed to be one of the most ex-

Bachelorette Parties . . . . . . . . 132 n

citing phases in your life. But we know that sometimes

Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 n

planning your wedding can get a bit stressful. That’s

Bridal Gowns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 n

why my wife and I started Today’s Bride 29 years ago.

Bridal Showers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 n

When planning our own wedding, we realized that

Bridesmaid Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 n

there were a lack of resources to find inspiration and

Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 n

vendors in Northeast Ohio. Though our format and de-

Catering & Bar Service . . . . . . . . 44 n

sign has drastically changed over the years, our mis-

Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 n

sion has stayed the same: to make wedding planning

Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 n

easier for engaged couples.

Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 n

With this edition, we’ve structured each section in

Favors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 n

order, based on your planning timeline:

Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 n Guest Accommodations . . . . 136 n

Green for 12+ months Pink for 8-12 months Orange for 3-8 months Blue for 0-3 months

Honeymoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 n Front Cover & Tab le of Contents Photos by: Emily Wren Photogra phy

Local Loves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 n Marriage License . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 n Men’s Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 n

Our hope is that you’ll take advantage of every resource in these pages to make your

Mother-of Dresses . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 n

wedding dreams come true. Though the checklists and articles are helpful, the amaz-

Photo Booth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 n

ing experts inside each page are who you’ll rely on to get you through this exciting and

Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 n

overwhelming time.

Real Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 n

From all of us here at Today’s Bride, Congratulations on your engagement, and happy

Rehearsals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 n

planning!

Superstitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 n Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 n

All the best,

Vendor Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 n Venues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 n Venue Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 n Videography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 n

Jim Frericks, Editor editorial@todaysbride.com

Vows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 n

ils and Grab your colored pens yoor uper ncplanning! color your way through Publisher: Jadlyn Incorporated

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1930 N. ClevelandMassillon Road Akron, Ohio 44333 330-670-9545 216-393-5677 FAX: 330-670-9546

Chief Marketing Officer: James J. Frericks

Director of Sales & Bridal Marketing: Rachel Yagl

Chief Operating Officer: Denise L. Frericks

admin@TodaysBride.com www.TodaysBride.com

Vice President: Jennifer Judy Fyffe

Bridal Marketing Account Managers: Whitney Miller Abby Zerull

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

Office Manager: Colleen Ahern

Wayne County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 n Wedding Planners . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 n Wedding Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 n Wedding Stationery . . . . . . . . . . 76 n

Creative Director: Kate Wolfram Social Media Stylist: Jordan Thi Content & Marketing Stylist: Taylor Jarvis

Today’s Bride planner is published annually in both the Greater Akron/Canton area (November) covering Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne, and Medina counties and in the Greater Cleveland area (July) covering Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain counties. All articles and advertisements are property of Jadlyn Incorporated and may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Jadlyn Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any errors, misprints, misquotes or omissions. Copyright © 2018-19. All rights reserved. Today’s Bride is not responsible for unsolicited editorial material unless a self-addressed stamped return envelope is included. Advertisement in this publication does not imply the endorsement of Today’s Bride, Jadlyn Inc. or any of its representatives. For further information call our offices at 330.670.9545 or 216.393.5677. Printed in the USA.



MASTER 12+ MONTHS

A lot of planning goes into throwing a wedding. Make sure you don’t forget a thing by consulting our Master Checklist as your planning progresses!

8-12 MONTHS

Discuss your budget and who is contributing to it Budget, p.10

Hire a Caterer Catering, p. 44 Bar Service, p. 48

Create a Pinterest account and start a wedding board

Shop for men's attire Men's Attire, p. 52

Check the Wedding Show schedule at TodaysBride.com A wedding show offers you the opportunity to meet with local wedding professionals while admiring all the latest bridal trends. Wedding Shows, p. 94.

Establish fitness and skin care routines Beauty, p. 56

Make a wedding email, binder, and/or spreadsheet You need a place to compile all of your thoughts, vendor handouts, contracts, and details. Choose your wedding party Bridesmaid Attire, p. 26 Begin compiling a guest list Create an A and B list. Wedding Stationery, p. 76 Choose your wedding date Hire a Wedding Planner Wedding Planners, p. 12 Start shopping for bridal, bridesmaid, and mother-of attire Bridal Attire, p. 14 Mother-of Gowns, p. 24 Bridesmaid Attire, p. 26 Book your Ceremony and Reception Venues Ceremony, p. 34 Venues, p. 38 Book the Officiant Ceremony, p. 34

Hire a Photographer and Videographer and have an engagement shoot This is a great way to get to know your potential Photographer, and may be included in your package! Videography, p. 62 Photography, p. 66 Book your Entertainment including: DJ, Band, Ceremony Musicians, and Photo Booth Company Entertainment, p. 70 Photo Booth, p. 74 Order and send save-the-dates and shop for your invitations Wedding Stationery, p. 76 Finalize guest list The final list should be a compromise between your list, your fiancé’s list, and your parents’ lists. Wedding Stationery, p. 76 Purchase wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses It takes time to order and get alterations. Bridal Attire, p. 14 Bridesmaid Attire, p. 26 Create a wedding website Hire a Travel Agent Honeymoon, p. 82

We

3-8 MONTHS Hire a Florist Flowers, p. 106 Buy or rent men's attire Men’s Attire, p. 52 Purchase wedding bands Hire a Transportation Company Transportation, p. 126 Reserve decor rentals Purchase or rent: toasting flutes, serving utensils, guest book, flower basket, and ring bearer pillow. Rental Equipment, p. 112 Ice Scuptures, p. 113 Linens, p. 114 Lighting, p. 118 Choose bridal & bridesmaid accessories Choose a Bakery and order your cake Cakes, p. 120 Have a tasting with a Caterer and finalize the menu Catering, p. 44 Book your honeymoon Make sure to give an itinerary to your family, apply for a passport, and find someone to collect mail, watch pets, and water plants. Honeymoon, p. 82 Remind mothers to order mother-of attire Mother-of Gowns, p. 24 Finalize playlists with DJ/Band/ Musicians Entertainment, p. 70 Find and book Hair and Makeup Stylist(s) Beauty, p. 56 Have final fittings for your wedding party and parents Order invitations Wedding Stationery, p. 76

printables! Organize all of your details in a wedding binder thanks to our pretty printable pages, free on TodaysBride.com 4

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

Shop for favors Wedding Favors, p. 102

0-3 MONTHS Set up/update your gift registry Gift Registry, p. 132 Have a bridal shower Bridal Shower, p. 131 Reserve Guest Accommodations Guest Accommodations, p. 136 Purchase postage, send wedding invitations, and record RSVPs Wedding Stationery, p. 76 Purchase gifts for bridal party, groom, and out-of-town guests Apply for your Marriage License Marriage License, p. 140 Write your vows and review ceremony details with Officiant Vows, p. 134 Finalize wedding day-of timeline and details with your Wedding Planner and Venues Day-of Details, p. 144 Plan ceremony and reception seating arrangements Book your rehearsal dinner space and send invitations Rehearsal Dinner, p. 138

2 WEEKS - THE BIG DAY Pack for your honeymoon Honeymoon, p. 82 Review wedding day details with a Wedding Planner Day-of Details, p. 144 Follow up with guests who have not RSVPd Give a final guest count to Caterer Catering, p. 44 Break-in wedding shoes Have a final dress fitting Delegate wedding day duties i.e. guest book and ushering Send directions to wedding day Transportation Driver Transportation, p. 126 Get Married! Day-of Details, p. 144



Where to

start... So you are

Choose a date. Decide which season you want to get married in and then choose a month. Be flexible with the dates inside which month you choose, as your venues may be booked on that specific date.

! d e g a g n e

LMAC Photography

Create a budget. At the start of each section, you’ll see an average price range for different services. Though we’ve researched and interviewed Northeast Ohio vendors to come up with these ranges, we encourage you to remember that they are not set in stone. Use these estimates to guide you in creating a realistic budget so you feel prepared when you meet with potential vendors! Create a wedding email. Over the next few months to a year, you’ll be meeting a lot of people while collecting tons of information. It’s super convenient to have everything stored in one inbox. Ask your wedding party. Take our quiz on page 28 to find out who you should ask! Our advice: don’t ask someone to be in the party just because you feel obligated to.

OH Snap! Photography

Sabrina Hall Photography

Choose a theme. Take our test on page 8 to see which wedding theme fits your style best! Natural, vintage, contemporary, or romantic this planner is filled with inspiration to fit your theme. Just look for the symbol!

3

WHERE TO FIND

Cut through the clutter. Find local vendors at TodaysBride..com

Magazines:

One of the best resources you can use to plan your wedding is a bridal magazine. They share all the new trends, give you advice and planning tips, and are full of gorgeous pictures to inspire! Plus, if you use a local magazine, you can find credible local vendors.

Oh, look at that. You've got one in your hand!

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

How lucky! We host shows throughout the Northeast Ohio area! Check out page 94 for dates.

Wedding Shows: Websites:

What would we do without the internet? With everything from wedding planning blogs, Pinterest photos, printables, vendor reviews, and websites, you can spend hours sorting through all the ideas and inspiration! Visit TodaysBride.com for access to all this and more!

Wedding Shows are onestop wedding shopping events. Meet vendors, see the latest trends, and take advantage of show discounts… what could be better?! Wedding shows are perfect for the just-engaged bride or someone who’s a week away!


Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K These often overlooked questions are vital when it comes to booking each and every vendor. Here’s what you should find out before signing any agreements or placing a deposit. Remember to ask all your vendors: 1. Am I your only client that day?

Yes

2. Will you be working my wedding?

No Yes

No

Who will: 3. Do you have insurance options?

Yes

No

4. How many years of experience do you have? 5. Are there additional fees?

Yes

No Fees:

6. Can I get a contract in writing? 7. Is gratuity included?

Yes

Yes

No

No

8. How far in advance should I book you?

9. Will your staff require a meal? 10. Can I customize a package?

Yes Yes

No

Never make a deposit without a written contract.

No

Other things to discuss: Dress Code

Payment Plans/Due Dates

Cancellation/Refund Policy

Arrival/Departure Times

quipment, who will be E providing it, and if there are any additional fees

Emergency plans

Notes:

Visit TodaysBride.com/plan for wedding planning tips & resources.

As you decide on which vendors you will be using, keep track of their contact information on the Master Vendor List on Page 146.

Quick tips TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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7


FIND

Look for these symbols to help plan your wedding theme.

1. What feature do you want in your wedding dress?

3. Which shoes will you wear on your wedding day?

A. Sleeves

A. Moccasins or barefoot

A. A private cabana in Maldives

B. Full skirt

B. Ballerina flats

C. Sheer bodice

C. Stilettos

B. Paris, New York, Dubai, London…. some big city!

D. Long train

D. Ankle boots

2. What trend do you want on your cake? A. Gold leaf foil

A. We visited the zoo or a local event

B. Hand-painted

B. We went on a hike

C. Fresh flowers

C. W e played games at an arcade or carnival

Martha’s Vineyard SCORING: 1. A=1, B=2, C=3, D= 4 2. A=3, B=2, C=1, D= 4 3. A=1, B=4, C=2, D= 3 4. A=3, B=1, C=4, D=2 5. A=2, B=3, C=1, D=4

You should have a Natural Wedding Theme! You love being outside and find beauty in nature. Watching the sunset, walking barefoot in the grass, and playing with animals are when you’re at your happiest. Incorporate a lot of natural wood, greenery, and flowers in your wedding.

VINTAGE

Bold Americana

CONTEMPORARY

17-20 POINTS

Marisa Albrecht Photography

ROMANTIC

13-16 POINTS

Alicia Lucia Photography

9-12 POINTS

Trin Jensen Photography

NATURAL

D. A secluded bed and breakfast on

D. We watched a play, movie, or comedy show

5-8 POINTS

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C. S outh America to explore ancient ruins

4. Where was your first date with your fiancé?

D. Cursive script

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5. Where would you choose to go on your honeymoon?

You should have a You should have a You should have a Romantic Wedding Theme! Contemporary Wedding Theme! Vintage Wedding Theme! As a child, you dreamed of You believe that less is more, You have an old soul, and you finding your prince charming, you love visiting art museums, love shopping in antique shops and The Notebook is your favorite and your Instagram game is on and at flea markets. You probably movie. Words like ethereal and point. You prefer clean lines own a record player and your first dreamy come to mind when you and open spaces in your home. dance will be to “Can’t Help Fallimagine your wedding. IncorpoCarry that into your wedding ing in Love” by Elvis. Old suitcases, rate lots of chiffon, flowers, and with muted colors, simple lace, and antique china are bistro lights into your decor. decor, and geometric shapes. musts for your wedding!

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE



BUDGET

YOUR BUDGET Bridal Attire Estimate

Alteratio5ns00+ could cost $

Groom’s Attire Actual Cost

Estimate

Paid

Bridal Gown

Formalwear

Alterations

Alterations

Accessories

Accessories

Undergarments

Shoes

Shoes

Grooming

Hair

Rings & Gifts Estimate

Stationery Actual Cost

Paid

Estimate

Bride’s Rings

Save-the-Dates

Groom’s Ring

Invitations

Party Gifts

Thank You Notes

Tips

Ceremony

Planners & Memorabilia Estimate

Actual Cost

Paid

Estimate

Site

Planner

Officiant

Photography

Music Flowers Rentals Transportation

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Paid

Postage

Consider taking out insurance for your rings, rentals, the venue, and your honeymoon.

10

Actual Cost

Invitations Programs often weigh more, which Miscellaneous means they'll i.e. menu, seating cards, escort cards, table number cards, etc. cost more.

Insurance

Remember, you need to get to the ceremony, reception, and hotel.

Paid

Your man will want a close shave and fresh cut for the big day, too!

Makeup

Find out who you need to tip on page 11.

Actual Cost

Rehearsal Dinner

TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

They can save you money and stress!

Actual Cost

Videography Photo Booth Marriage License Honeymoon

A travel agent is free and can find you the best deals.

Paid


Quick tips

Although not required by every wedding vendor, small gratuity gifts for a job well done are a gracious way of showing your appreciation. Be sure to assign someone to hand out the tips at the end of the event.

OFFICIANT/CLERGY

BUDGET

TIPPING POINTS

DJ/BAND

$75 - $100 ‘donations’ are appropriate

15% - 20% given to the band leader or DJ

CEREMONY SITE STAFF

(soloist, organist, church staff, etc.) $20 - $30 per person

RECEPTION WAIT STAFF

$20 - $40 per person

DELIVERY/SET-UP PERSONNEL

BARTENDERS

(decorators, floral, cake, etc.) $10 each if dropping items off $20 each if dropping off and setting up

15% - 20% of entire bill for the bar

LIMOUSINE DRIVER(S)

15% - 20% of entire bill

PHOTO BOOTH ATTENDANT

$1 - $2 per car if they are not taking tips from guests

RECEPTION SITE MANAGER

15% - 20% paid to driver

PARKING ATTENDANTS

$20 - $50 per person

Reception Estimate

Actual Cost

Paid

Venue Catering

Your vendors will need meals, too.

Bar Service Cake/Dessert Rentals Favors Flowers Linens Music/DJ Lighting/Decor

Ask your DJ and other vendors about overtime fees. Miscellaneous

Consider allocating a "just in case" fund. This will help cover unforeseen costs.

5% of your budget to

These costs could include hotel accommodations, special features like an ice sculpture, and any additional gifts.

Category

Estimate

Actual Cost

Paid

TOTAL: Prefer to work digitally? Join TodaysBride.com and download our budget Excel file.

Find it under printables! TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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WEDDING PLANNER

Planner Package Cost Range*: $500 to $3,500+

g n i d d We

* Packages vary by company

What does a

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K A Wedding Planner works to ensure that your vision is properly (and perfectly!) executed. So, it’s important for you to get to know them! Ask these questions: 1. H ow long have you been planning events?

2. How many weddings do you plan per year?

3. Do you have a portfolio and a list of references?

Yes

No

4. C an you negotiate special rates with other vendors? No

5. Will you handle every aspect of the planning?

Yes

No

6. What kind of packages do you offer?

7. How often will we talk/meet?

8. W ill you be there the day-of?

No

Notes:

LOCAL WEDDING PLANNERS Creative Transformations Styling & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Elegant Events by Maria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Sirpilla Soirees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 12

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Financial Advisor Wedding Planners have years of experience. From the numerous weddings they’ve planned, they’ve met various local vendors to connect you with. Whether you’re trying to stay on budget, are looking for a specific style, or want the best of the best, your Wedding Planner will be able to recommend some vendors. They may even be able to get you discounts, help you avoid costly mistakes, and advise you on budgeting. Fairy Godmother You have more important things to do than negotiate packages with vendors. You have a full-time job, a home to take care of, a social life to uphold, and a fiancé to adore. Planning your special day is your wedding planner’s full-time job! They will dedicate all their time, ideas, and experi* Packages vary by company

Yes

TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

?

do

Planning a wedding is stressful. Finding and meeting with vendors, staying on top of payments, mastering DIY decor, and dealing with family drama is a full time job! If you could use some help, advice, or guidance, you may want to hire a Wedding Planner. Just check out some of the roles they can play!

PLANNING PACKAGES

Yes

r e n n Pla

ence to make sure no detail is overlooked. They know the latest wedding trends, etiquette and tradition, what works and what doesn’t, and will ensure that your wedding vision is made a reality. Stress Reliever Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event. You want to be relaxed, excited, and fully present on your wedding day – not rushing around perfecting final details and taking calls from your caterer! Likewise, hiring a wedding planner will give you free time to appreciate your engagement instead of stressing over napkin colors or menu options. Plus, he or she will ensure that everything gets done on time and according to your vision, will handle any crises, and will keep you and your wedding party on schedule on the wedding day.

Full-Service

Partial

Day-Of

Initial consultation

3

Idea generation

3

Budget creation

3

Vendor suggestions

3

Site tours

3

Vendor selection

3

Contracting

3

Available for questions

3

3

Etiquette knowledge

3

3

Timeline development

3

3

Vendor confirmation

3

3

Direction of the rehearsal

3

3

3

Distribution of timeline

3

3

3

Day-of coordination

3

3

3

Power Hour

3

3

3

3



BRIDAL ATTIRE

Dress Cost Range*: -$700 to $8,000+ * Does not reflect discounts, sales, or trunk shows.

Dress the

When you start shopping...

Bring someone you trust. Though you do

Rebecca Ingram - Deon

not want your team to swoon over every dress you try on – that’s not helpful when it comes to making a decision – having the support of people who know exactly what you want will make your decision easier. Bring 3-4 people who are honest but not harsh, know your vision, and will support your decision.

Don’t bring too many people. Avoid bringFind out what these symbols mean on page 8.

ing your entire entourage. When shopping, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the contrasting opinions. You’ll get confused and question what styles you actually like. You never want to settle for a dress you don’t love just because everyone in your entourage loves it.

Keep an open mind. Your consultant has years of experience and knows what they’re doing. Trust that he or she knows what styles will look good on you, and be open to trying on dresses that don't necessarily fit your vision! You never know what you might fall in love with, and it won’t hurt your consultant’s feelings if you hate it.

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


TRENDS WE

What kind of dress?

q

This chart will give you an idea of what silhouettes to look at when shopping! If you love a style outside of your results, try it on anyway. It's your wedding day!

Bows

Square

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

SHEATH

Whether cinching your waist or adding volume to your booty, this trend adds a touch of romance to even the most formal wedding dress!

EMPIRE

David's Bridal VW351432

Triangle

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

EMPIRE

Jumpsuits

Hourglass

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

SHEATH

EMPIRE

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

EMPIRE

MERMAID

MERMAID

Not a fan of dresses? With this trend, you don’t have to compromise! With a chic jumpsuit, you can feel both comfortable AND glamorous!

INVERTED

Triangle

Haley Paige - 1863

Circle

R KNOW THE LINGO R

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

Basque waistline – Crosses the body below your natural waistline and dips in the center forming a v-shape. Blusher – A loose veil worn over the face during the ceremony, then pulled back for the first kiss.

Bustle – Gathering and pinning up the fabric of your skirt and train using buttons, hooks, or ribbons. This process allows for easier maneuvering during the reception. Chiffon – A lightweight, sheer fabric typically combined or layered over other fabrics. Best for A-line and ballgowns as it is loose-fitting and flowing.

EMPIRE

Empire waist – This waistline has a fitted bodice and ends right below the bust, then flows out a little. Godet train – A triangular piece of fabric that is usually sewn into the hem of the dress to add fullness.

This popular trend is sexy without being provocative. With nude cups or lining, you can feel confidently covered without losing the effect.

Illusion – Transparent fabric made of tulle, lace, or net. Used to create the look of sleeves, a high neckline, or back. Sabrina neckline – Also referred to as a boat neck or bateau neck, it runs horizontally across the collarbone from front to back. Sweetheart neckline – This neckline dips down between the breast to look like a heart.

Learn more Bridal Gown terms at www.TodaysBride.com/glossary.

Sheer Bodice

Haley Paige - 6550

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Calla Blanche - 18107 available at The Dress Bridal Boutique

Hayley Paige - Decklyn available at Nordstrom Wedding Boutique

David's Bridal 8CWG780 available at David's Bridal

Casablanca Bridal - Tori available at Lavender Bridal Salon

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


BRIDAL ATTIRE

Let's Shop!

Lillian West - 6512 available at Doreen Leaf Designs

You’ve probably spent at least one afternoon binge-watching a marathon of "Say Yes to the Dress" and feel fully prepared for your dress shopping appointment. However, your scheduled appointment time will fly by quickly, and the last thing you want is to leave the store disappointed, discouraged, and empty handed. We have a few tips to prepare you for this experience and ensure you find the dress of your dreams! Start looking 12+ months before your wedding day. It generally takes six months to receive your gown and you should allow for at least two fittings to ensure a perfect fit. However, allowing too much time between falling in love with your gown and walking down the aisle in it can lead to questioning your decision, FOMO, and nerves about it fitting properly. Twelve months will allow for enough time to find the gown, have it ordered, shipped, and fitted.

Limit your store selection to two or three. If you try to stop by every bridal shop in the area, you’ll end up forgetting what dresses you tried on, which dresses you loved, where you want to return, etc. Research beforehand to choose shops that offer different designers. This will make it easier to remember which store had the dress you loved and will allow you to see different styles rather than the same dress again and again. Allure Bridal - 9511 available at Henri's Cloud Nine

Bring heels similar in height to your wedding shoes. If you find the dress, the Consultant and alterations staff will take your measurements to order your custom gown. It’s important to wear shoes similar in height to your wedding shoes so there are minimal alteration changes to be made when the dress arrives.

Wear nude underwear and a strapless bra. Remember, you will have a Consultant who will help you get dressed and undressed. If you don’t want to be completely exposed, we recommend not wearing a thong and wearing a strapless bra to the salon. Strapless or sticky bras are the best, as you’ll be trying on countless strapless gowns. They also have the least amount of padding, and since some of the dresses come with builtin padding, it will give you the best idea of how the dress will look and feel on your wedding day. Avoid wearing any bright colored underwear. It may show through the gown, ruining the impression of a dress you may have otherwise loved.

Mikaella - 2200 available at The Dress Bridal Boutique

Sophia Tolli - Y11875 available at The Winner

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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17


BRIDAL ATTIRE

Bring photos of gowns you love!

Hint, this magazine has tons!

Research beforehand to get an idea of what kind of dress you’re looking for. Do you like a lot of beading or vintage lace? Do you prefer a tight bodice or loose-flowing? What type of materials are you drawn to? Is there a designer you absolutely love? Coming to your appointment with details like these can help narrow down your selection quickly and make it easier to find your gown.

Incorporate alteration costs into your budget beforehand.

Maggie Sottero Lynette available at Doreen Leaf Designs

You should absolutely have an idea of how much you want to spend before going to your first appointment. One hidden cost that most brides don’t account for when coming up with their wedding dress budget is the cost of alterations. Alterations can cost anywhere between $200-$1,000. If you don’t account for that within your dress estimate, you’ll end up going over budget because of the alterations.

Don’t try on dresses outside of your budget. It’s a common downfall to many bridal budgets. While falling in love with a dress that is a few hundred dollars over your budget can work for some brides, you’ll have to decide on your priorities. Where can you shift dollars and spend less in order for you to afford this dress? If it’s worth it to you, feel free to stretch your budget! But if you want to stick to a specific number, avoid trying on dresses you can’t afford.

Don’t lose too much weight or order your dress in a size too small. Some brides order a dress in a smaller size to motivate them to lose weight. It’s a lot easier to remove fabric than it is to add more fabric in, so it’s smarter to order a dress in your current size and fit it to your new body after weight-loss. However, it can also be scary to lose too much weight and end up with a dress that’s too big only weeks before your wedding. Have a realistic goal of how much you want to lose, and talk to your Consultant and alterations team to decide what size would be best to order.

When you have your “moment,” stop. Don’t keep looking for something better. Shopping is addicting, and you will always wonder if there is something better out there just waiting for you to find it. Trust that the dress you love is "the one" and that you’ll look beautiful walking down the aisle. Is there a dress out there that you’d love more? Probably. But as long as this dress makes you feel absolutely perfect and gorgeous, stop looking for something better. Otherwise, you’ll never stop shopping.

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"



BRIDAL ATTIRE

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Maggie Sottero - Brinkley available at Lavender Bridal Salon

There are some opinions that you value above any other – maybe your mom’s, your best friend’s, or even your own. But when it comes to wedding dress shopping, you should trust that your Consultant knows best. You may go into the appointment knowing exactly which dress you want and end up leaving the salon having bought a completely different silhouette. This trust is built by being completely honest with each other about budget, likes and dislikes, timeline, and extra costs. Questions to ask: 1. I found this dress; can I get it through you?

Yes

2. Can I purchase a gown off the rack?

No

Yes

No

3. How long does it take to order a dress?

4. W ill I have the same Consultant every time I visit? Yes

No

Consultant's Name: 5. Do you do alterations?

Yes

No

6. How many fittings will I have? 7. What is included? Essense of Australia - D2532 available at The Dress Bridal Boutique

Garment bag

Steaming

Dress Storage (prior to wedding) 8. Do you provide gown cleaning and preservation? Yes

No

Bridal Attire Shopping list: Dress

Bridesmaid Dresses

Slips

Mother-Of Dresses

Accessories/ Jewelry

Flower Girl Dresses

Shoes Other:

Notes:

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"



BRIDAL ATTIRE

Must-Have

Hayley Paige - Lumi available at Nordstrom Wedding Boutique

ACCESSORIES After you put on your dress and do your hair and makeup, you may find that there’s something missing. These must-have accessories will take your look from wow to WHOA! Veil The veil is one of the most iconic pieces to creating your bridal day look. Any woman can wear a white dress, but a veil makes you undoubtedly a bride. Whether you choose a cathedral length train or a blusher over your face, add a personal touch to it with lace appliques and embroidery. Though some modern brides have chosen to forgo this accessory, we still think it’s a vital piece to creating that classic look.

Undergarments You probably got some lingerie at your bachelorette party that’s perfect for your wedding night, but they’re not practical to wear throughout the wedding festivities! When choosing which undergarments you’ll wear during the day, consider the features of your dress. If your gown has an exposed back, you’ll need to go braless or wear a sticky bra. If your bodice offers no support, consider wearing a padded strapless bra. If you decide to wear a garter, you’ll need to purchase two – one to wear and one to toss – and slip on the second one right before the garter toss.

Jewelry It’s important to choose pieces that complement, but don’t detract attention from, the dress. Dangling earrings are great for sweetheart necklines, but you should wear studs with an illusion neck. Bracelets should be worn with strapless or halter gowns, but not with offthe-shoulder gowns. Try on different jewelry options while shopping or at a fitting to see which work best with your dress.

Shoes

Sophia Tolli - Y21834 available at The Winner

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Deciding what shoes to wear on your wedding day can be difficult. You want to find a pair that is both fashionable and comfortable enough to dance in all night long. You may want to consider wearing heels to the ceremony and bringing flats to dance in at your reception. We suggest breaking in your shoes about 2 weeks before the wedding and adding gel or foam inserts. Don’t forget to bring your shoes with you when shopping or to a fitting to ensure that the length of your gown is just right!


BRIDAL ATTIRE

Calla Blanche - Marketa available at Henri's Cloud Nine

White by Vera Wang - VW351456 available at David's Bridal

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Casablanca Bridal 2234 available at The Flawless Bride

Stella York - 6701 available at Lavender Bridal Salon

Willowby - Corella available at Nordstrom Wedding Boutique

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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23


MOTHER-OF ATTIRE

Mom

Shopping for

Ivonne D by Mon Cheri 218D31 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

Moms are there for so much: to ease our

tears on the first day of kindergarten, to

slap a Band-Aid on that bruised knee, to remind us that our homework still isn’t done, and of course, to celebrate with us. And at this stage, you’re there to celebrate one of life’s biggest occasions: your son or daughter’s wedding day! Choosing a Color When looking for a dress for the wedding, you’ll want to choose a color that is similar to the wedding party, but doesn’t match exactly. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing lavender, you can accent them with a plum gown. You should also keep in mind the location, time of day, and formality of the wedding itself. For formal, elegant celebrations, you should avoid colors like ivory, champagne, black, or red and wear a long gown. For a more casual, outdoor get-together, bright colors and fun prints on a tea or knee length dress are perfectly acceptable!

Montage by Mon Cheri 218917 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

Coordinating Outfits Typically, the mother-of-the-bride picks out her dress first, setting the tone for what the mother-of-the-groom will wear. You and your future in-law don’t have to match, but you should make sure your looks don’t clash, either. Be sure to discuss sleeve and hem lengths, necklines, colors, and styles with each other before shopping. If you already get along well, you may even want to go shopping together!

Where to Shop Now that you’ve got an idea in your head of what to look for, it’s time to shop! Plan to visit department stores, special occasion shops, and bridal shops. If a bridal shop doesn’t sell mother-of gowns, look at the bridesmaid dresses they carry! Oftentimes, these double perfectly as a moth-

Special Occasions by Mon Cheri - 218816 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

Ivonne D by Mon Cheri 218D21

available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

er-of gown without forcing you to look or feel matronly. If you find a dress you love that needs to be ordered in a different size or color, we recommend doing so no later than 3-5 months before the wedding. Your child’s wedding day may be just as big of a moment for you as it is for them. All of your hard work at raising a wonderful person has paid off, and they’re ready to start a family of their own. Take pride in your accomplishment by finding a dress that will showcase your beauty!

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


MOTHER-OF ATTIRE

MOTHER-OF CHECKLIST As a mom, you’ve already mastered the most important skills needed during the wedding planning process: to be a warm listener, chief cheerleader, and a source of support for your son or daughter. Though you will be there to help the couple make decisions every step of the way, there are a few tasks you’ll be responsible for. MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE:

MOTHER-OF-THE-GROOM:

elp plan, host, and pay for the H engagement party.

Help plan, host, and pay for the rehearsal dinner.

Help the bride find the wedding dress of her dreams, as well as other wedding attire & accessories.

If there’s a mother/son dance, help choose a song for it and dance with your son at the wedding.

Possibly escort the bride down the aisle and participate in other parts of the ceremony, such as unity ceremonies, when needed.

articipate in parts of the cerP emony, such as unity ceremonies, when needed.

ct as hostess at the wedding A and reception, ensuring guests are comfortable. This also includes standing in the receiving line (if applicable), sitting at the parents’ table, and making sure the bride has greeted all her guests.

BOTH: Assist in communicating with vendors and booking hotel blocks for guests. elp spread the word about where H the couple is registered. iscuss the wedding budget with the couple, including what you D are willing to pay for, and the ideal total number of guests. raw up the guest list for your side of the family. About 3-4 weeks D before the wedding, call any of your guests who have not responded. The mother-of-the-bride chooses her dress first. Share details about the dress with the mother-of-the-groom.

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25


BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE

Allure Bridal - 1556-1570-1560 available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Cost Range of Being a Bridesmaid: $700 to $1,500+

s d i a m s e d i Br YOUR

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a huge honor but also a massive commitment. A lot of time, money,

and patience are required to make your best friend’s wedding absolutely perfect – not to mention all the responsibilities! Here are just a few things you should be prepared to tackle as a dutiful bridesmaid.

BRIDESMAID RESPONSIBILITIES:

P lanning and hosting parties. The bridal party is in charge of planning

and throwing both the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. This means you should brainstorm game ideas, research locations, help decorate, and assist with hosting duties, and chip in on the cost of decor, food, and prizes.

S hopping for bridesmaid dresses. The bride may ask you to help her narrow down or choose bridesmaid dresses. She values your opinion, so don’t be afraid to let her know your thoughts about silhouette, color, and budget. Tread lightly, though. Ultimately, the decision is the bride’s – not yours. H elping the bride with planning tasks. Though this may not be asked of you, you should be prepared and willing to help the bride with any wedding planning tasks, like attending wedding dress shopping trips and fittings, and helping with any DIY projects. A ttending pre-wedding events. These include: shopping trips, engage-

Share this list of expectations with your bridesmaids! 26

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ment party, bridal shower, bachelorette party, ceremony rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner. Being a bridesmaid is a huge time commitment, but you should try your best to appear at each event.

K eeping the bride sane. As the bride’s best friend, you’re going to have to deal with some bridezilla moments. Listening to some screaming or comforting an inconsolable bride is part of the job description, and it’s your responsibility to step in and make sure the bride remembers what really matters – marrying her fiancé.

TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

TOP 3 THINGS YOU'LL SPEND MONEY ON

Your wedding day look

Quick tips

– While you probably already accounted for buying a bridesmaid dress, you’ll also need to buy shoes and jewelry, plus pay for your hair and makeup to be done.

Gifts – As a bridesmaid, you should be prepared to

buy gifts for the engagement party, bridal shower, and bachelorette party. For the bridal shower, feel free to ask the other bridesmaids if they want to go in on a gift together!

Parties – Not only will you help plan the bridal

shower and bachelorette party, but you’ll also be expected to help finance these events, whether you bring a cookie tray, pay for DIY supplies, or chip in toward a rental fee.



BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE

Should _______ be a Bridesmaid? (FILL IN NAME)

It can be really hard to choose who should be a bridesmaid, and sometimes you just can't decide! This quiz will help you determine which of your friends are bridesmaid-worthy.

David's Bridal F19743 available at David's Bridal

1. How long have you known her?

Morilee - 21585 available at Doreen Leaf Designs

A. We’ve been best friends forever.

4. Will your friendship suffer if you don't ask her? A. She would be so upset.

B. She’s friends with my fiancé.

B. I really don’t think she would mind.

C. We are family.

C. She’d probably be relieved.

2. When was the last time you hung out?

5. Does she get along with the other bridesmaids?

A. We don’t always hangout, but we talk all the time.

A. Not all of them.

B. Sometime in the past 12 months.

C. N o, but she wouldn't cause drama.

C. We hangout almost every week.

B. Yeah, she’s very likeable.

3. She’s most likely to...?

6. Do you see yourself being friends with her 10 years from now?

A. cancel plans.

A. Absolutely!

B. be on time, if not early.

B. W e've grown apart already.

C. show up late.

C. I ’m sure we’ll still be in touch.

SCORING: 1. A=3, B=1, C=2 2. A=2, B=1, C=3 3. A=1, B=3, C=2 4. A=3, B=2, C=1 5. A=1, B=2, C=1 6. A=3, B=1, C=2 7-12 Points

0-6 Points

This person is an obvious bridesmaid.

Extend an invite to the wedding but not as a bridesmaid.

YES!

Allure Bridesmaids1566, 1556 available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

NO.

Bridesmaid's Day-Of Checklist:

Morilee - 21596 available at The Winner

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Sorella Vita 8718 available at The Dress Bridal Boutique

TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Dress Shoes Heel Inserts & Band-Aids Jewelry A Clutch Undergarments Double-Stick Tape Small Sewing Kit Instant Stain Remover Loose Tank Top or Button-Up Shirt Makeup Hair Tools Tissues & Makeup Remover Wipes Contact Solution/Eye Drops Deodorant Mini Perfume Spray Photo of Desired Hairstyle

Hairspray Bobby Pins Lint Roller Nail Clippers & Emery Board Compact Mirror Hand Sanitizer & Lotion Breath Mints Medicine Feminine Products Mini Water Bottles A Small Snack Mini Umbrella Your Wedding Gift or Card Printed Itinerary Copy of Your Speech Phone Charger A more detailed list is available on TodaysBride.com/maids.



BRIDESMAIDS BRIDESMAID ATTIRE ATTIRE

Jenny Yoo - Cassie available at Nordstrom Wedding Boutique

SHOPPING FOR YOUR

Bridesmaids

Christina Wu 40135 available at Henri's Cloud Nine

Choosing who will stand beside you as you say “I Do” can be difficult, but what’s even more challenging is finding a dress that fits all of their figures, styles, and budgets!

The Budget Though it’s not the most glamorous of topics, determining your bridal party members’ budget is certainly one of the most important. Don’t put off having this conversation with each bridesmaid individually, as it will enable you to search for gowns that fall in the right price range. If you have your heart set on a style that some bridesmaids can’t afford, see if there are some other costs such as hair, makeup, or shoes – that you can pick up to help alleviate their financial obligation.

Christina Wu Celebration 22782, 22789, 22784, 22800 available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Start Early Your search for the perfect bridesmaid gowns should start about twelve months before your wedding. When you first begin, take a small party consisting of your maid-of-honor, mom, and possibly your motherin-law to narrow down your choices.

Once you’ve chosen your favorites, you can invite the entire gang! We suggest having just a few try on and model the gowns for the others to avoid any chaos or disagreements. Your bridesmaids should order their gowns no later than four months before your wedding date to allow for shipping and alterations.

Shopping Online vs. In-Store Odds are, at one point or another you’ve ordered an item of clothing online that did not fit properly and had to return it. With bridesmaid dresses, you don’t get that option. We’ve heard one too many horror stories of dresses that came in and needed heavy alterations to match the silhouette you saw online, which only drives the cost up! Save yourself some stress and money; buy from a local bridal shop. Find them on page 32.

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Most likely, your bridesmaids are spending a lot of money on these dresses! Make sure they know what they’re paying for and what they should expect by asking these important questions.

Allure Bridesmaids - 1562, 1569 available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Remember to ask: 1. How long does it take to order a dress? 2. Can bridesmaid dresses be altered?

Yes

No

3. How many fittings will they have? 4. W ill the dresses be pressed before pick-up? 5. Do you offer a discount to my bridesmaids if I buy my dress from you? Yes No

Notes:

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Yes

No



BRIDAL ATTIRE

Morilee - 8275

available at Doreen Leaf Designs

Where to shop American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Henri's Cloud Nine

The Dress Bridal Boutique

Some designers they carry: Morilee, Allure, Dessy, Christina Wu, Bill Levkoff

Some designers they carry: Morilee, Calla Blanche, Allure Bridals, Lo'Adoro by Rachel Allan, Adrianna Papell

Some designers they carry: Essense of Australia, Martina Liana, Mikaella, Sottero & Midgley, Calla Blanche

David’s Bridal

Lavender Bridal Salon

ww.davidsbridal.com w See ad on page 134

ww.lavenderbridalsalon.com w See ad on page 19

Some designers they carry: David’s Bridal Collection, Oleg Cassini, Jewel, Galina, White by Vera Wang

Some designers they carry: Stella York, Maggie Sottero, Casablanca, Moonlight Bridal, Simply Val Stefani

Doreen Leaf Designs

Nordstrom Wedding Suite

www.acdress.com See ad on page 27

OTHER BRIDAL ATTIRE VENDORS Alterations Express . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Unbox the Dress . . . . . . . . . . . 149

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Visit each store’s website for a full list of designers, store hours and locations, and to set up your appointment!

www.henris.com See ad on page 32

ww.doreenleafdesigns.com w See ad on page 63

www.nordstrom.com See ad on page 25

Some designers they carry: Lillian West, Essense of Australia, Chic Nostalgia, Morilee, Maggie Sottero

Some designers they carry: Hayley Paige, Blush By Hayley Paige, Watters, Willowby, Bliss Monique Lhuillier

TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

www.thedressbridalboutique.com See ad on page 64

The Winner

www.thewinneroutlet.com See ad on page 36 Some designers they carry: Morilee, Martin Thornburg by Mon Cheri, Sophia Tolli, House of Wu, Enzoani

Vera’s Ladies Apparel www.verasapparel.com See ad on page 152

Some designers they carry: Cameron Blake, Daymour Couture, Jovani, MGNY by Morilee, Montage by Mon Cheri


Content Provided by Alterations Express


CEREMONY

Ceremony PLANNING YOUR

Ceremony Cost Range: $100 to $2,500+

FINDING AN OFFICIANT

The ceremony is the most meaningful part of the wedding. Make sure it’s sentimental – and more importantly, legal! – by finding the perfect Officiant. LEGALITY The most important step in choosing an Officiant is making sure they’re legally allowed to marry you. In Ohio, ministers ordained online must register with the Secretary of State’s office for a marriage to be legally performed. It’s important to ask to see both proof of ordainment and registration. Some religious leaders are willing to conduct weddings outside of the church. Ask him or her what their regulations are and if they’re willing and available. A PERSONAL TOUCH You should choose an Officiant you feel comfortable around and who is a good public speaker. Someone who knows you well is always best, as they can add personal touches that a stranger can’t. You should also consider asking someone you admire. Whether they have a successful 25 year marriage or a strong moral compass, they’ll be able to impart great advice. GATHER OPINIONS You can search reputable sources, check out magazines, visit bridal shows, and ask family and friends for referrals to find your Officiant. Ask to see videos of previous weddings and talk to anyone you know who has been to a wedding where this person officiated. POINTS TO DISCUSS Go over sample wordings and the order of the ceremony, such unity ceremonies, readings, and musical interludes. Ask if they have suggestions for readings and any sample vows you can refer to when writing your own. OH Snap! Photography

FIND A LOCAL CEREMONY VENUE ON PAGE 40

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


Find out who should come before "Here Comes the Bride"

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Make sure that every detail of your ceremony is planned and executed to unforgettable perfection by asking these important questions.

1

Questions to ask Officiants:

Officiant

Grandparents

(Escorted by ushers)

2

3

Parents-ofthe-Groom 4

Mother-of-the-Bride (Escorted by ushers)

5

Groom

4. Is there a dress code?

1. Will you give a speech/sermon?

Yes

2. Will we be able to read it before the ceremony? Yes

No

3. Can we choose the readings?

Yes

No

Groomsmen and Bridesmaids 7

Ring Bearer

8 and Flower Girl

Questions to ask Musicians: 1. Can I choose my songs?

5. Do you have sample vow wordings? Yes No

2. What instruments do you offer?

7. Will you attend the rehearsal?

Yes

No

Questions to ask ceremony venues:

2. Do you have a bridal suite?

Yes

Yes

Know the guidelines before buying your dress.

No

3. Will you be the performer the day-of? Yes

No

4. H ow far in advance should I book?

1. May we bring in our own Officiant? Yes No

Best Man and Maid-of-Honor

No

4. Will you perform the marriage at the venue of our choice? Yes No

6. Do you require pre-marital counseling? Yes No

6

Yes

No

Notes: No

3. Are there any restrictions for decorations, vendors, or music? Yes No

9

Bride and Fatherof-the-Bride

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35

CEREMONY

ORDER OF PROCESSION


CEREMONY

Black Dog Photo Co.

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Ceremony CHECKLIST You’ve probably spent a lot of time planning your reception, but

don’t forget about the ceremony! From pretty to practical, there are a lot of details to consider! Refer to this list and don’t forget a thing. Seating Aisle runner Pew adornments Altar flowers Reserved seating signage Signage Arch, backdrop, chuppah, or mandap Ring bearer pillow and flower girl basket Flower girl petals Readings and song choices

Gowns from top designers / Sizes 2 to 32 / Full line of bridal accessories including jewelry, crowns, and veils / Mothers’ dresses and bridesmaid dresses / Flower girl dresses and ring bearer attire / Appointment required on weekends / No appointment needed on weekdays / Layaway available

WHY SHOP ANYWHERE ELSE?

Rice, bubbles, lavender, confetti, or whatever else you plan to use for your exit Vow book Programs Guestbook Items needed for religious, cultural, familial, or unity ceremonies Rings

Don’t worry, birds won’t explode if you throw rice, but check with your venue.

TOP 10 SONGS TO WALK DOWN THE AISLE TO

Walking down the aisle is the moment every little girl dreams of. Whether you choose the traditional Wedding March or romantic lyrics, your song choice should reflect your relationship. Here are my top 10 favorite songs to walk down the aisle to: 1. W edding March by Mendelssohn 2. B ridal Chorus by Wagner 3. C anon in D by Pachelbel 4. A Thousand Years by Christina Perri

Listen to these songs on our Spotify Playlist at TodaysBride.com/songs

5. C an’t Help Falling in Love by Kina Grannis

BRIDALCENCHANTMENT

6. H istory in the Making by Darius Rucker 7. All You Need is Love by Beatles 8. Moon River by Audrey Hepburn

M-F: 10A - 9P / SAT: 10A - 6P / SUN: 11A - 5P

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

10. I Was Made For Loving You by Tori Kelly & Ed Sheeran

rv

Ja

36

9. This Is It by Scotty McCreery

lor Tay

32 W. STATE ST. / SHARON, PA / 724-346-9466 / GOWN-TOWN.COM

is ,

Tod ay

’s Bride


CEREMONY

TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR

# H A S H TAG

While creating my hashtag came naturally – #ThiTheKnot was just too perfect creating your own hashtag can be more difficult than you’d expect! While some may prefer the generic and easy-to-remember – like combining your names, using your new last name, or including your wedding date – others like to come up with a creative pun or wordplay. I love the idea of having a small get-together with your wedding party and brainstorming possibilities! Provide appetizers and drinks, plan a game or two, and start shouting out ideas! Not only will you end up an

for members of your party to get to know each other!

d Jor

with a fun and creative hashtag, but it’s a great way

Th i

,T oda y’s Bride

# WORKSHEET Start with your names (first, last, or nicknames) X Think of things that rhyme with your names:

Think of wedding sayings:

Meant to be Say I do To have and to hold

Hashtag Ideas:

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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37


VENUES

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Venue Cost Range*: $3,000 to $10,000+

It’s important to visit each venue in-person to get a real feel for what they offer. Getting a sense of the style, imagining your reception in that space, and meeting the staff are key factors to making an informed decision. You should have an idea of your wedding date, guest count, and reception activities – like a dance floor, photo booth, yard games, etc. – when visiting different sites.

* hYowoumshaounyldbaathlsoroonomtes

Ask these questions:

are available and the size of the parking lot.

1. H ow far in advance should I book?

2. What is the room's capacity?

3. Is there a facility rental fee?

*cost range can vary due to location, and the number of guests. Also, some venues include catering and bar service.

Yes

No Fee:

4. I s there a fee if the reception runs long? Fee: 5. Do you have a ceremony space?

Yes

6. Will I be the only wedding that day?

No Yes

7. Is there a Venue Coordinator available? 8. Do you provide security?

Yes

No

Yes

No

No

9. Is there valet service or a parking fee? Valet

Parking Fee:

10. Do you have a: Bridal Suite

Stage

Dance Floor

Coat Check

11. Do you offer/rent: Catering

Bar Service

Tables

Linens

Centerpieces

Chairs

12. Do you work with: Preferred Vendors

Outside Vendors

13. What are your decorating guidelines?

Venue FINDING YOUR RECEPTION

LMAC Photography

RECEPTION TIMELINE

LMAC Photography

help you *YourstayDJonwillschedule.

Nothing is set in stone! Use this as a guide to schedule your own reception!

14. Do you have in-house decorators?

Yes

No

15. How early can we access the space to decorate?

16. Do you have outdoor locations for photos?

5:00PM Cocktail Hour 6:15PM Introduction of the wedding party and newlyweds

6:20PM First dance 6:25PM Toasts 6:40PM Blessing over the meal (optional)

6:45PM

Notes:

Visit TodaysBride.com/venues for printables, Venue Review, and more!

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TODAY'S BRIDE +12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Dinner service begins

7:30PM Father-daughter dance & mother-son dance

7:40PM 7:50PM 8:30PM 9:55PM 10:00PM 10:01PM

Bouquet & garter tosses Dance ’til you drop! Cake-cutting Grand exit Reception ends Vendors breakdown


With all of the gorgeous venue spaces in Northeast Ohio, it’s nearly impossible to choose just one! Though we can’t pick your reception venue for you, we can help narrow down your options. This quiz is designed to guide you toward a venue style that fits your vision best!

Between May & October

Marisa Albrecht Photography

Concrete

I’d prefer to stay indoors

. Co

ar

ulie gJ lin

t

Ph

o

D

ot

ee Tr

GREENHOUSE

Black Do g

SJA Studios &

GARDEN

Drip Cake

Everyone we know!

Bo oju

m

Wedding Tattoos

BALLROOM

WAREHOUSE

yM

ret Smith P arag ho to gr a

y ph

Concrete’s clean lines, textured surface, and neutral color makes it the perfect, versatile accent to make your decor more dynamic and eye-catching.

Choose a new trend:

Who are you inviting?

Close friends & family only

ar

Alicia Lucia Photography

M

Spring and summer are beautiful in Ohio! Take advantage of the rare sunshine, blue skies, and blooming trees. Consider a tent as a backup, add some bistro lighting, a lounge, and lots of flowers to complement the space.

Laura Goldenberger Photography

Soft, classy, and luxurious, this fabric will have your reception oozing modern elegance. Not ready to commit to a tablecloth? Try a runner!

How do you feel about an outdoor wedding?

We’re all for it!

q

Velvet Linens

When are you getting married? Between November & May

TRENDS WE

This venue has quickly become a wedding trend because of its floor-to-ceiling views! Letting in so much light and making any weather pattern look beautiful, it’s no wonder that this venue is the perfect canvas for any wedding theme.

For a chic and classy wedding, consider a ballroom. You could not ask for a more glamorous setting! Look for a ballroom that showcases features you love – like an amazing view – to leave a impression with your guests!

Warehouses have grown in popularity because of their edgy vibe. Find an open space with exposed brick and hardwood flooring! Flowy white drapes, tropical flowers, and macramé tapestries all look great in this industrial space.

Backdrops

Whether it’s the focal piece at the ceremony or sets the scene for your photo booth, backdrops add even more beauty to your wedding photos!

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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39


VENUES

Local Venues

Choosing a reception venue can be nerve-wracking and overwhelming. Use this directory to quickly compare venues in the area to see which one is the best fit for you. Remember, you should always visit a site in-person before booking! # = See Ad on this Page

= Indoor Facility = Outdoor Facility

= Ceremony Space Available

CANTON 330-477-8588 | www.aaexecutivecatering.com

73

350

330-376-9186 | www.akronartmuseum.org

11

WOOSTER College Of Wooster Dining & Conference Center 330-263-2106 | www.wooster.edu/dining

104

600

330-305-0500 | www.akroncantonairport.embassysuites.com

137

250

330-374-7598 | www.greystonehall.org

133 40

200 |

300

Columbia Woodlands

844-681-7500 | www.columbiawoodlands.com

57

= Call for Details

175

Firestone Country Club

330-644-8441 | www.firestonecountryclub.com

5

300

Banquet Center at The Galaxy

330-334-3663 | www.galaxyrestaurant.com

138

330-867-5000 | www.hiltonreceptions.com

1

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

450

450

AKRON Blu Jazz+/Blu Plate

330-252-1170 | bluejazzakron.com

41

170

YOUNGSTOWN

AKRON DoubleTree by Hilton Akron-Fairlawn

Doubletree by Hilton Youngstown Downtown

153

143

330-869-9000 | www.doubletreeakron.com

200

330-259-1708 | www.doubletree3.hilton.com

CANTON Gervasi Vineyard

330-497-1000 | www.gervasivineyard.com

75

AKRON Hilton Akron/Fairlawn Hotel & Suites

Information is subject to change. Please call to verify before making any decisions.

WADSWORTH

AKRON

AKRON Greystone Hall

= Bar Service Available

DOVER

NORTH CANTON Embassy Suites Akron-Canton

= Capacity

AKRON Akron Art Museum

AA Executive Event Center

= Catering Available

300

CANTON Glenmoor Country Club

330-966-3600 | www.glenmoorcc.com

61

300

KENT

NORTH CANTON

Kent State Hotel and Conference Center

Holiday Inn Canton

330-494-2770 | www.hicanton.com

140

175

225

330-346-0100 | www.kentstatehotel.com

37

250


VENUES

Book now for 2019

For more information, visit facebook.com/blutiquehotelakron

JJ the

Trailhead

J

akron, ohio

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41


VENUES La Pizzaria

330-477-4700 | www.lapizzaria.com

31

900

Lake Anna Hall

330-745-9901 | www.lakeannahall.com

29

200

CANTON Metropolitan Event Centre

330-289-6673 | www.facebook.com/themetropolitancentre

136

300

Musica

330-374-1114 | www.liveatmusica.com

41

135

250

330-920-7505 | www.sheratonakronweddings.com

300

154

300

330-733-7666 | www.springlakepartycenter.com

84

300

St. George Fellowship Centre

330-666-7132 | www.tlccateringinc.com

63

330-458-3097 | www.historiconesto.com

21 42

320 |

230

550

The Little Red Barn

330-749-4501 | www.thelittleredbarn.net

145

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

300

CANTON McKinley Grand Hotel

330-454-5000 | www.mckinleygrandhotel.com

51

AKRON Nuevo

330-762-8000 | www.nuevomodmex.com

128

200

450

NEW FRANKLIN Occassions Party Centre

330-882-5113 | www.occasionspartycentre.com

69

350

SILVER LAKE

WOOSTER Silver Lake Country Club

Shisler Conference Center

330-263-5501 | www.shislercenter.com

105

300

330-689-7402 | www.silverlakeclub.com

71

220

WILMOT

AKRON The Amish Door Village

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

330-359-5464 | www.amishdoor.com

330-315-3210 | www.stanhywet.org

134

N. LAWRENCE

CANTON The Historic Onesto Event Center

49

AKRON

LAKEMORE SpringLake Party Center

419-994-3427 | www.landollsmohicancastle.com

CUYAHOGA FALLS Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls

330-688-4653 | www.rosesrun.com

Landoll's Mohican Castle

AKRON

STOW Roses Run Country Club

LOUDONVILLE

BARBERTON

CANTON

200

142

ROOTSTOWN

CHIPPEWA LAKE The Oaks Lakeside Restaurant & Event Center

The New Center at NEOMED

330-325-6173 | www.newcenterevents.com/weddings

122

350

400

330-769-2601 | www.theoakslakeside.com

7

200


VENUES

The Stables at Arrowhead Lake

The Vintage Barn at Creekbend Ranch

Todaro’s Party Center

330-624-7205 | www.vintagebarnatcreekbend.com

330-929-3377 | www.todaros.com

127

115

147

OTHER VENUES

to consider for your ceremony, rehearsal, shower, or bachelorette parties 750ml . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127, 141 Caro’s Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Cellar 59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Debonne Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Exploration Gateway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 High Voltage Indoor Karting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129, 132 Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Michael Angelo’s Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Newman Creek Cellars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 The Wine Mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

St . George Romanian Orthodox Canton, Ohio (330) 492-4592 www.stgeorgecanton.org

Indoor

Banquet Hall

Both

400

400

85

Hotel

Indoor

300

300

86

Banquet Hall

Both

300

300

87

Country Club

Both

225

250

88

Banquet Hall

Both

300

300

89

Mansion/ Historic Site

Both

175

200

90

Banquet Hall

Both

750

300

91

Historic Site/Mansion

Both

200

250

92

Historic Ballroom/ Hotel

Indoor

320

320

93

Wine Bar

Both

90

94

Private Club

Indoor

250

375

Venue Review

North Royalton, Ohio (216) 251-2131 www.brennanscatering.com

Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio (330) 920-7505 www.sheratonakron.com

®

Shisler Conference Center Wooster, Ohio (330) 263-5501 www.shislercenter.com

Silver Lake Country Club Silver Lake, Ohio (330) 689-7402 www.silverlakeclub.com

SpringLake Party Center Lakemore, Ohio (330) 733-7666 www.springlakepartycenter.com

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Akron, Ohio (330) 836-5533 www.stanhywet.org

Todaro’s Party Center Akron, Ohio (330) 929-3377 www.todaros.com

The Trailhead Akron, Ohio (330) 957-0006 www.trailheadevents.com

Tudor Arms - A Doubletree Hotel Cleveland, Ohio (216) 456-2691 www.tudorarmsevents.com

Uncorked Wine Bar Akron, Ohio (330) 374-1850 www.akronuncorked.com

The Union Club Cleveland, Ohio (216) 621-4230 www.theunionclub.org

250

108

SPONSORED

BY THE NEW

CENTER AT

ThornCreek Winery & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Tozzi’s on 12th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Troutman Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Unity Chapel of Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Walsh University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Williams on the Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Winery at Wolf Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

Bridal Suite

Banquet Hall

84

St . Paul’s Hellenic Center

Join Today's Bride for access to our complete Northeast Ohio Venue Review! Get more details about the venues in this magazine and much more!

83

On-Site Coordinator

the perfect place to start

Overnight Accommodations

take place so you can note traffic patterns and natural lighting.

Facility Rental Fee

It can also help to visit around the time of day your reception will

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE? Special Diet Options

than 6) and try to schedule your visits in one weekend so everything is fresh in your mind. Then visit your top 2 for a second time.

300

Bar Service Included

visiting it in-person first. Narrow your list down to a top 3 (no more

103

350

Outside Alcohol Allowed

that are important to you. You should never book a site without

87

330-466-6484 | www.willowhavenfarm.com

Catering Provided

This information is subject to change, so be sure to call any venue you’re interested in to make sure they offer the amenities

Willow Haven Farm

330-875-0100 | www.watersedgeweddings.com

Ceremony Capacity

90

Waters Edge Vineyard

Outside Caterers Allowed

41

WOOSTER

Indoor/Outdoor

250

330-374-1850 | www.akronuncorked.com

LOUISVILLE

Reception Capacity

65

Uncorked Wine Bar

200

Page No .

330-644-1728 | www.tudorhouseonportagelakes.com

41

700

AKRON

NEW FRANKLIN Tudor House on the Portage Lakes Waterfront

150

330-957-0006 | www.trailheadevents.com

Venue Style

150

Trailhead at Cascade Lofts

Venue Name

330-551-3660 | facebook.com/thestablesatarrowheadlake

AKRON

AKRON

BURBANK

MILLERSBURG

NEOMED

1

When you Join Today's Bride you will have access to exclusive content like the Venue Review, Look Books, and printables!

.com TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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43


CATERING

Catering Cost Range*: $15 to $100+ per person *May be included in the price of your venue.

Catering

OH Snap! Photography

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K

When you first meet with your Caterer, you’ll probably only care about the way the food tastes. While that is certainly important, there are a few other details you should ask before booking.

by the numbers

Sometimes, leftovers are even better than the meal, but if you leave for your honeymoon right after your reception, you won’t get to enjoy them! Ordering just the right amount of food will ensure that you don’t miss out on any leftovers (and that your fridge won’t be stuffed when you return).

Questions to ask: 1. H ow do you charge? 2. Do you offer special dietary options? 3. For buffets, are the portions fixed? 4. Is clean-up included?

Yes

No

5. Can you customize a menu?

Yes

6. Do you offer free taste testings?

Yes Yes

No No

ENTRÉE

No Yes

APPETIZERS

No

}

7. What kind of services are available? Seated

Family Style

Food Station

Buffet

Food Truck

Other:

8. What is the server-to-guest ratio? 9. Do you offer cake-cutting services?

Yes

Notes:

No

SIDE DISHES

}

6 pieces per guest

1.5 servings per guest

}

1.5 servings per guest

Visit TodaysBride.com/food for more info on catering. LOCAL CATERING & BAR SEVICES VENDORS ACME Fresh Market Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 A Taste of Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Buehler's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Corkscrew Johnny’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Old Carolina Barbecue Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Robert J. Events & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46,47 Rosie Camper Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Village Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


Let Us Plan YOUR EVENT! Wedding Receptions

Rehearsal Dinners • Showers

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today! CALL: 330-645-6222 • EMAIL: acme_catering@acmestores.com


CATERING

CATERING MISTAKES

|

5. Serving too much food at the cocktail hour. The cocktail hour is meant to be an appetizers only. You should have a limited amount of food to be served so that guests don’t ruin their appetites for dinner.

2. Thinking a buffet is cheaper. With a seated meal, there is a set amount of food prepared and served; you are only charged for those meals. With a buffet, caterers often cook too much food and welcome guests to seconds, which can cost you more money.

6. Requesting out-of-season dishes. Ordering side dishes or ingredients that aren’t in season can do some major damage to your budget.

3. Not thinking about the kids. Offer options like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, or pizza to satisfy the children at your wedding (and their parents).

OH Snap! Photography

46

1. Not having a budget in mind. Your caterer should be able to work with you to come up with a menu that pleases your taste buds and your budget.

TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

4. Not offering a filling vegetarian dish. Your RSVP should include a space for you guest to mark any dietary restrictions they have. Be sure to offer at least one hearty dish that isn’t meat-based. Serving soup or pasta will fill up your vegetarian guests without breaking the budget.

7. Ordering too much dessert. Not every guest will eat cake but we recommend ordering at least one piece of cake for each guest. If you opt to have a dessert station with cookies, cupcakes, candies, and other treats, you can offer less cake. 8. Not planning for leftovers. Brainstorm some ideas for what you can do with any leftovers. If you’re having a buffet service, ask your caterer if they’re responsible for disposing of the extra food. If you’ve already paid for it, you should take advantage of the extra food by passing out any leftovers to your guests, wedding party, donating it, or freezing it for yourself.


Choose the phrase that describes the feel of your wedding.

Glamorous and chic

Traditional and formal

The more the merrier!

How do you feel about leftovers?

Casual get-together

They’ll sit in the fridge. Yes

Will there be kids at the reception? No

Choose your favorite meal.

Salad, steak, and potatoes

Pizza. No, sushi! No, burgers!

Seated Meals

Food Stations

CATERING

What kind of dinner should you have?

Buffet Buffet lines allow your guests to choose which foods they want and skip over those that would just get wasted. Elegant and classy, a seated dinner ensures that you have just the right amount of food. We suggest offering two different entreés for guests to choose from – one vegetarian and one meat.

Offer a wide selection of favorites, like sliders, pizza, and tacos. Perfect for both large gatherings and small, food stations will add a wow factor to your reception.

OH Snap! Photography

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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47


BAR SERVICE

Bar Service Cost Range: $1,000 to $8,000+

PLANNING YOUR BAR Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K There are a lot of variables and unknowns when it comes to bar service. What drink options should be provided? Who will be providing them? Is alcohol allowed at your venue? Will you have a champagne toast for everyone, or just the wedding party?

Black Dog Photo Co.

Ask these questions: 1. Are we charged by the glass or by the bottle? Glass

Bottle

How long should service be available?

Other

2. Do you offer top-shelf liquor ?

Yes

No

3. I f there are any bottles leftover, will we be refunded? Yes No Take the leftovers home 4. Is there a corkage charge? Yes

No Fees:

Corkage is a fee to open wine that you supply

5. How many bartenders will there be? How much for additional bartenders? 6. Do you supply other beverages? Water Coffee Tea Soda

Juice

7. I s gratuity included in the package?

Yes

Other No

How much? 8. Is a champagne toast included? Yes, for all guests Yes, bridal party only 9. Do you close during meal service?

Yes

Notes:

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

No No

Be sure to arrange for bar service that lasts as long as the reception itself (the average wedding reception lasts between four to six hours). Customarily, the bar will close during dinner service, which will save you money. Alcohol service should end an hour before the end of your reception, but you should make provisions for non-alcoholic beverages to be served until the reception is over. What are my drink options? You have a lot of options when it comes to your beverages! You can choose to have a full bar or simply serve wine and beer as a more cost-effective option. If you want to include liquor as an option but don’t want the cost of a full bar, consider concocting a signature cocktail! If you’re holding a dry wedding, you can have more options than just water, soda, and tea. Try mixing things up with a mocktail! Pink lemonade spritzer, dry pomegranate cosmos, and virgin daiquiris are all great options to offer your guests! How much alcohol do I need? Remember that only your guests that are 21 or older will be drinking alcohol and that each guest will have on average 1 drink per hour. If you’re having 100 guests over the age of 21, you can assume that 50% of them will drink wine, 20% will drink beer, and 30% will have liquor of some kind. These numbers are flexible, though, and vary depending on your guests’ preferences. Once you have your final guest list, use the calculator on page 50 to find out how much you need!



numbers

BAR SERVICE

BAR BY THE

This bar calculator will offer you an idea of how much alcohol you should expect to serve at your reception, but keep in mind that these numbers may change according to your guest list! If your friends and family typically favor beer over wine, you’ll need to adjust the proportions accordingly so as not to run out of the most popular drink! We also suggest using the total guest list count in order to calculate the amounts. Though guests under 21 won’t be drinking alcoholic beverages, it’s better to have too much than too little – just in case some guests drink more than one drink an hour.

+ Number of Guests

Number of Hours

=

Total Drinks

AVERAGE SPLIT

Liquor

30%

Beer

+ Total Drinks

+ Total Drinks

+ Total Drinks

20%

Wine

.3

=

.2

=

.5

=

50%

Servings of Liquor

Servings of Beer

Servings of Wine

ONE BOTTLE OF....

Yes, we know a keg isn't a bottle.. LIQUOR

WINE

KEG

18 SERVINGS

165 SERVINGS

4 SERVINGS

Servings of Liquor

Servings of Beer

Servings of Wine

÷ =

18

Bottles of Liquor

÷ =

165 Kegs of Beer

÷ =

4

Bottles of Wine

DON'T FORGET THE CHAMPAGNE TOAST!

÷

8 SERVINGS

Number of Guests Over 21

8

=

Number of Bottles

Hate math? Download an Excel file to help you figure out your bar numbers at TodaysBride.com/drinks

50

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE


BAR SERVICE

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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51


MEN'S ATTIRE

Men's Attire Cost Range: $75 to $1,000+

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Choosing exactly what you’ll be wearing on your wedding day is one of the most important tasks you’ll be given as a groom. Tackle it like a pro by asking your Consultant these questions! Here are questions you should ask: 1. Do you carry: 2. Do you:

Sell

Tuxedos

LMAC Photography

Suits

FIT TIPS

Rent

3. Do you sell accessories?

Yes

No

4. A re items in stock or do you have to order them? In stock

Y our tie should end just above your trousers.

Order When to order:

5. Do you do alterations?

Yes

No

T here should not be a gap between your shirt collar and jacket collar.

6. How do out-of-town groomsmen get fitted?

7. How many fittings will I have? 8. Do you have any discounts?

Yes

W hen you slip your hand between your shirt and buttoned jacket, it should fit but be snug.

No

Men's Attire Shopping List: B utton-Down Shirt U ndershirt Tie Tie Clip Cuff Links Jacket

M atch the width of your tie to the width of your lapel.

Vest

Suspenders

Belt Trousers Shoes Socks Pocket Square

Notes:

Ask your Consultant how to fold your pocket square.

our shirt cuffs should surpass Y your jacket sleeves by about half an inch. Y our socks should be long enough to cover your ankles and legs when you sit down. For more information on men's attire visit TodaysBride.com/Groom

T he hem of your jacket should cover your pants’ zipper. W ith a double-button jacket, the top button should fall at or just above your navel. T he top button of a double-button jacket should never be clasped. I f you’re wearing a vest, don’t button the bottom button.

Always unbutton your jacket before you sit down.

Sabrina Hall Photography

LOCAL MEN'S ATTIRE VENDORS American Commodore Tuxedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Boumadi's Clothier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Men's Wearhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


How to tie a bow tie

trenDs WE

The perfect fit for any style wedding, we’ve made tying your bow tie a rather easy process with just 10 steps!

q

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Patterned Vest

A

POP POP

Colored Suits

Chris J Evans Photography

tion, add a pop of color with playful socks or a pocket square.

Confidence is a must-have accessory if you plan to wear a colored suit. If it’s done right, this trend will wow guests and make a statement.

Another way to add your style and personality to your overall look is with patterns! Checkered, flo- ral, chevron, striped, or geometric patterns add interest and dimension to your tie or vest. The result will be a bold and adventurous ensemble that is sure to ic ks , T attract attention. od e Jim

Fr

er

As a fashion-forward, frequently complimented man, I like to think of myself as a style expert. I owe that success to color. Color is one easy way to make a statement with your suit or tux. Instead of black or gray, look for an emerald, blue, or mauve suit. If you want to add color without sacrificing tradi-

ay’s Brid

Hats

Ties.com

Use a vest to add drama and color! Play with a bold pattern or graphic to draw the eye and separate the groom from the groomsmen!

Emily Wren Photography

OF PERSONALITY Men often get forgotten or overlooked when it comes to fashion, especially standing next to a bride. If you want to feel confident and stylish at your wedding, it’s important to find an ensemble that will turn some heads. Besides securing the perfect fit – no groom wants too-long pants or a baggy jacket – the most important aspect in an eye-catching look is to add your personality to the details!

Photography34

Ties.com

Ties.com

Emily Delamater Photography

No need to sacrifice your go-to accessory for your wedding. We recommend staying away from ball caps, but consider flat caps, Fedoras, or Panama hats. 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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MEN'S ATTIRE

LMAC Photography

OH Snap! Photography

Sabrina Hall Photography

Anna Delores Photography

Sabrina Hall Photography

DAY-OF CHECKLIST According to tradition, the groom isn’t allowed to see the bride on the morning of their wedding. That means she won’t be able to remind you what needs to be done. From packing your suitcase to tipping the staff, there are a lot of things you’ll be responsible for. Here are a few of the things you should be prepared to tackle.

Black Dog Photo, Co.

Print off the itinerary

Get a close shave

B ring a gift or heartfelt letter for the bride

ang your suit or tux so it doesn’t H wrinkle

Bring the signed Marriage License

ring a steamer or iron for any lastB minute touch-ups

B ring wedding bands and pass them off to the Best Man right before the ceremony Present groomsmen with gifts M ake sure there are snacks and water in the groom’s suite

OH Snap! Photography

C reate tip envelopes and assign a groomsman or your parents to hand them out

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

rop off yours and your bride’s lugD gage in the car or hotel room where you’ll be staying et portraits of you and your groomsG men before the ceremony to save time for family photos between the ceremony and reception ave a good breakfast and keep hyH drated

M ake sure ushers are aware of any special seating arrangements M eet with Officiant, Musicians, Transportation Driver, and any other vendors for any last-minute changes or questions

For a worry-free and stress-free wedding, it’s crucial to be prepared! Carry this checklist with you to ensure that every detail is taken care of.



Sabrina Hall Photography

BEAUTY & HEALTH

Coloring is a great stress reliever. Hair & Makeup Cost Range*: $50 to $200+ *Depending on the services you book.

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K You may consider doing your own hair and makeup, but trust

BECOMING PICTURE PERFECT

us, hiring a professional is your best option. They will ensure that every strand is in place and make your skin glow for pictures.

BEAUTY TIMELINE

Questions to ask: 1. Do you provide on-location services? 2. Is there a travel fee?

Yes

Yes

No

No Fees:

3. How long will it take to do my hair and/or makeup?

4. Do you conceal tattoos?

Yes

No

5. What is included in a trial?

6. When should I schedule my trial?

7. How much does a trial run cost?

8. Will you be my stylist the day-of?

Yes

9. What size party can you accommodate?

Notes:

No

6-9 months

Continue this once every three months.

• Decide on a hair color. If you’re going to experiment with new shades (like trying out blonde for the first time) now is the time to do it so you can tweak or fix anything you don’t like. • Schedule a conditioning hair treatment. • If you plan to lose weight, book a personal trainer or come up with a fitness and diet routine. • Meet with a dermatologist if you have severe skin issues you want to address. • Develop a skin regimen.

3-5 months • Find hair and makeup stylist(s). •H ave your first hair and makeup trial appointment. • Start using whitening toothpaste, strips, rinses, or schedule a consultation with a dentist.

1-2 months • If you’re planning on using self-tanning lotion, begin use once a week. • If you’re planning on using tanning beds, visit a salon once a week for 10 minute increments. • Get a facial. 56

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Tanning beds can be harmful to your skin, Use with caution.

2 weeks • Get final highlights. •H ave a final trial hair and makeup appointment to finalize your look.

Use your own lipstick so you can reapply as often as necessary the day-of!

Bring your veil and accessories to make sure they work with your 'do!

•G et a final trim, but don’t experiment with new styles or cuts.

Week-of • Get a manicure and pedicure. •U se your self-tanning lotion or visit the tanning salon twice this week. • Get a full body massage. • Get a facial. Make sure to schedule at least one other facial before this one. You don’t want to have an allergic reaction the week of your wedding!

• Schedule a bikini, eyebrow, and under arm wax, and shave (or wax) your legs.

LOCAL BEAUTY & HEALTH VENDORS Carol Martin Salon Spa . . . . . . . . . 57 A White Pond Paradise Salon & Day Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Trillium Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com


BEAUTY & HEALTH

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inspiration

BEAUTY & HEALTH

HAIR

Finding the perfect hairdo for your wedding is hard work! You have to consider the venue, your dress, any hairpieces you plan to wear, and the overall theme of your wedding. Will you be getting married outdoors? If so, you may want more of an updo to avoid any wind-related catastrophes. Do you have a backless dress? You may not want to wear your hair down so you can show off this feature! Use these trendy ‘dos as inspiration, but remember to choose a look that works well with your veil or hairpiece!

Carol Martin Salon Spa

Caitlyn Meyer and Marlayna Photography

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Caitlyn Meyer and Coral Dove Photography

Alicia Lucia Photography

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Isabella Jane Hairstyling

Kurt Boomer Photography


BEAUTY & HEALTH Alicia Lucia Photography

Carol Martin Salon Spa

Caitlyn Meyer and Michael & Carina Photography

Isabella Jane Hairstyling

Carol Martin Salon Spa

Isabella Jane Hairstyling

Nate Veal Photography

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BEAUTY & HEALTH

We all want to be healthy year-round, but it’s especially important on your wedding day. Make sure you create a health and beauty routine so you can enjoy every moment of your wedding knowing you look and feel your best. SKIN

TEETH

DO rinse your face in warm water before cleansing and cold water after. The warm water will open your pores, allowing the cleanser to get inside and banish all that unwanted bacteria and the cold water will close them back up, ensuring that no dirt or oil can get in!

DISCOVERING THE

BEST YOU

DON’T assume everyone’s skin regimen is the same. Everyone’s skin is different, so it will take a little experimenting and some trial and error before you find the right regimen for you.

DO switch your cotton pillowcases to silk to avoid breakouts. DON’T touch your face, as oil and bacteria from your hands can transfer into your pores.

HAIR

DO schedule monthly conditioning appointments with your salon and a trial 1-3 months before your wedding.

Tamiz Photography

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DON’T use a blow dryer to dry your hair. Instead, use microfiber towels. They are more absorbent and will soak up extra moisture quicker.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

DO look for toothpaste with baking soda as a main ingredient. DON’T drink beverages like coffee, tea, and pop, as they can stain your teeth. No bride wants to wear a dress that’s whiter than her teeth. DO consult with a dentist or specialist for extreme whitening procedures that last.

MENTAL WELLNESS

DO adopt a hobby – like crocheting, painting, reading, meditating, or exercising – to relieve stress. DON’T exercise for the wrong reasons. We’re big supporters of loving your body exactly the way it is. However, it does have great benefits like boosting energy levels, mood, motivation, and sleep! DO make sure you’re getting 8 hours of sleep or more each night. Looking beautiful is easy for you! No matter what you do with your hair or makeup, whether you have a small zit or split ends, your spouse-to-be is going to be completely enchanted by your beauty when they first see you walk down the aisle.

Learn more about health & beauty at www.TodaysBride.com/beauty


BEAUTY & HEALTH

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VIDEOGRAPHY

Videography Cost Range: $1,000 to $8,000+

Videography

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K

There is so much going on the day of your wedding that you won't get to see. Make sure you don't miss a second of the fun by hiring a Videographer.

Sabrina Hall Photography

Questions you should ask: 1. H ave you shot at my ceremony and reception locations before? Yes

WHY YOU WANT A VIDEOGRAPHER

No

4. W ill there be an assistant on-hand to help?

Yes

No

Your wedding day goes by so quickly that you’ll miss a lot and may not remember a good amount of it. A Videographer will ensure that the moments that mean the most are captured for you to relive and cherish for years to come.

5. Will there be an additional Videographer?

Yes

No

Relive the moment in real time.

2. How many cameras will you use? 3. Will you be the Videographer the day-of?

Your wedding day will go by so fast and you’ll be so nervous at first that you may not remember the details! Videography allows you to relive each beautiful moment of your wedding day in a crystal clear way that photography can’t.

6. How will I receive my video? 7. When will I receive my video? 8. H ow long will my video be?

9. Will you interview my guests?

It offers a different perspective. Yes

You only enjoyed your wedding through your point-of-view, but with a videographer, you can relive it through dozens of different perspectives! Seeing such emotional moments through the eyes of your loved ones and guests will allow you to draw a different meaning every time you watch it.

No

10. What shots would you recommend?

You can share your day with loved ones over and over again.

11. Do you offer a highlight reel that I can share on social media?

Yes

Notes:

No

Having a short video of the festivities allows you to share it on social media with family or friends that couldn’t make it. You’ll be able to watch your special day on your 50th anniversary and with future generations of your family. Find local videographers at TodaysBride.com

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VIDEOGRAPHY

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VIDEOGRAPHY

Should You Hire a Videographer? Videography may seem like an unnecessary and unwelcome added cost. But keep in mind that once your wedding ends, there’s no going back. You can’t relive it…unless you hire a videographer to capture it all on film. Take our quiz to help you decide whether or not a videographer is worth it!

1. What are your plans after your wedding?

A. W atching episodes of Say Yes to the Dress, wishing I could relive my wedding. B. Scrolling through Facebook to see who has gotten engaged so I can go to another wedding.

C. Wearing “Wifey” shirts, showing off my ring, and telling anyone and everyone that I just got married. 2. What are you looking for-

ward to at your wedding?

A. Hearing my Maid-of-Honor’s toast. I know it’s going to be hilarious!

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B. Walking down the aisle to my fiancé.

C. S eeing relatives who live out-of-state.

TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

3. How many guests are you

6. What’s on your wedding

A. Less than 100

A. A go-pro for our honeymoon excursions.

inviting?

B. 100-200 C. Everyone we know! The more the merrier! 4. Are you utilizing social me-

dia in your wedding?

A. We’re having an unplugged ceremony. B. Of course! We have our own hashtag! C. I assume people will post photos, but we’re not encouraging it. 5. Are you more nervous or excited for the big day? A. So nervous! B. I can’t wait! It’s so exciting! C. There’s definitely a mixture of both.

registry?

B. A 75” TV for the man cave. C. A fun activity like cooking classes or art lessons. SCORING: 1. A=1, B=2, C=3 2. A=2, B=1, C=3 3. A=3, B=2, C=1 4. A=1, B=3, C=2 5. A=2, B=3, C=1 6. A=3, B=1, C=2

6-18 Points

HIRE A VIDEOGRAPHER!

One of the biggest regrets newlyweds have is not hiring a videographer. This priceless keepsake will serve as a precious reminder of the most beautiful day of your life. Plus, you’ll get to relive moments you’ve forgotten, see relatives who have passed, and share this special day with the next generation. Take our advice and hire a videographer!


VIDEOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY

DOS AND DON’TS OF HIRING A PHOTOGRAPHER

Photography Cost Range: $1,500 to $5,000+

DO ask to see a real wedding album. Because a Photographer’s samples represent his or her best work, it’s never a bad idea to ask to see actual wedding albums and get references from brides who have used their services.

DON’T

hire a Photographer solely based on price. If someone’s prices are drastically lower than most, ask yourself why. Typically, it’s because the quality of the photo isn’t as good. These images will be displayed and shared with generations of family; if you splurge on anything, this is the service to do so.

DO hire someone who specializes in weddings. Some Photographers prefer to shoot landscapes, family portraits, or work solely in a studio. A Photographer with experience in weddings will know how to pose the bridal party to create natural, candid-looking shots and how to make the bride feel comfortable and beautiful all day long.

DON’T

hire a family member or friend. Your loved ones should be able to truly enjoy your day, not work it. You don’t want to look back at your album 10 years from now and regret not having cousin Susie in the photos because she’s taking them. Plus, a professional will have a written contract to protect your investment and ensure you’re getting exactly what you want.

y h p a r g o t o h

P

DO

choose someone who you get along well with. Your Photographer will be up close and personal with you all day long. Hire someone who you feel comfortable around.

DON’T

Sabrina Hall Photography

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

assume you own your wedding photos. Most Photographers include an album, USB, or CD of photos in their packages, but ask your Photographer if you’ll have the rights to print, download, and share your photos online after the wedding or if that will be an extra fee.


PHOTOGRAPHY

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K The images your Photographer captures will become a permanent reminder of your day, so choose wisely! Use the questions below to help you. Questions you should ask: 1. What is your style of photography?

First Look Shot, or not?

OH Snap! Photography

2. What sets you apart from others?

3. Have you shot at my ceremony and/or reception location before?

6. Will there be a second-shooter?

1. Are you wearing a veil?

10. How many hours will I have?

B. No, I’m thinking a flower crown or sparkly clip.

2. Which describes how you feel about your wedding?

A. Nervous.

5. Are you an Early Bird or a Night Owl? A. Early Bird. B. Night Owl. SCORING: 1. A=1, B=2 2. A=2, B=1 3. A=1, B=2 4. A=1, B=2, 5. A=2, B=1

6-10 Points

YES!

B. Excited!

3. Are you having personal vows or traditional vows? A. Traditional.

A first look is perfect for you! You’ll still have a dramatic reveal and the photos captured are priceless. Plus, spending time with your fiancé will eliminate those nerves!

1-5 Points

4. Did your fiancé help you dress shop? A. No way! I can’t wait to see his reaction. B. He had some input.

NO.

You don’t want to take away from your grand entrance, are a bit superstitious, and believe in traditions. Skip the first look and stick with the aisle reveal!

Learn more about first looks and photography www.TodaysBride.com/photos

Yes

8. D o you have a standard shot list?

No

Yes

No

No

Yes

9. I s there a fee for additional locations? Fee:

No Yes

No

11. When will you arrive? 12. Do you have a back-up plan if things go wrong? Yes No 13. Can I customize a package?

Yes

No

14. Do you do engagement photos? Included in package Add-on service

No

15. When can I expect to receive my images?

16. How will my photos be given to me? CD

B. Personal.

Yes

5. Will there be an assistant on-hand to help?

7. When do I need to book you by?

A. A bsolutely! Probably my mom’s or grandma’s.

No

4. Will you be the Photographer the day-of?

They may not be traditional, but first look photos are becoming super popular! It’s entirely up to you whether you want to uphold the superstition that the couple should not see each other until they meet at the altar or be rebellious and meet at a first look, but if you need help deciding, take this quiz:

Yes

USB

FTP

Printed

Other

17. What is your copyright policy ?

18. H ow long do you keep my photos?

19. Do you offer photo albums? Included in package

Add-on service

No

Notes:

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Black Dog Photo Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ken Love Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 LMAC Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 OH Snap! Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Sabrina Hall Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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Sabrina Hall Photography

Black Dog Photo Co.

PHOTOGRAPHY

ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

OH Snap! Photography

RR

KNOW THE

LINGO

Bridal Session – This session is taken with the bride on the wedding day before the ceremony. They’re typically close-up portrait shots that capture the details of her gown, bouquet, makeup, and hair.

Alicia Lu ci a

Ph oto gr ap hy

Boudoir – These glamour shots are a sexy tribute to pin-up models, typically taken of the bride in lingerie or sleepwear. While the bride may be wearing little to no clothing, the posing and angles of the photos are very discreet and artistic. First Look – A first look is a photo shoot shared between the couple before the wedding ceremony. Not only do you get great photos of the groom’s reaction, but you can save a lot of photo time between the ceremony and reception by taking portrait shots at the first look. Fisheye Lens – This is an ultra-wide lens that provides a panoramic view, where the image is distorted to make the center look closer to the lens and the edges seem farther away. Second-Shooter – Some Photographers will include a second-shooter in their photography package. Just as it sounds, this is a second Photographer who will also capture photos on your wedding day to get more angles and a diverse selection of photos.

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LMAC Photography

Black Dog Photo Co.

If your photography package doesn’t include engagement photos and you don’t think they’re worth the extra cost, we’re about to convince you otherwise. 1. Get to know your Photographer. Your Photographer is the one vendor you will spend every minute of your wedding day with. They’re going to get up close and personal, be front and center for intimate moments, and will follow and document every move you make. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you get along. An engagement shoot allows you to learn how your Photographer works, get used to his or her style and rhythm, and will help you bond! 2. Become comfortable in front of the camera. Posing for photos can be awkward. Spending a few hours with your photographer at your engagement shoot will make you more comfortable with posing and smiling for the camera. Plus, both you and your Photographer will learn your best angles to ensure you end up with gorgeous wedding photos. 3. Use the photos for save-the-dates, your guest book, or wedding website. Instead of a generic save-the-date card, send a photo of you and

your fiancé holding a chalkboard with your wedding date. You could also create a scrapbook of well wishes and advice from your guests next to your engagement photos to flip through after your wedding! It’s true that engagement photos aren’t necessary to create either of these, but they add such a unique and personal touch! 4. Have professional photos of you and your fiancé. The majority of the photos you and your fiancé have together are probably selfies. There may be the occasional group shot with friends or on a vacation, but this is your chance to have professional, quality photos taken of you! These sessions can capture playful, flirtatious, romantic, intimate, and candid moments shared between you and your fiancé. They show real emotion and are beautiful representations of your relationship. 5. Make memories with your fiancé. Planning your wedding can be such a hectic and chaotic time that you don’t get to enjoy a quiet moment with your fiancé! Having an engagement session will allow you to enjoy being engaged. You’ll get to have fun being goofy and romantic, and will create happy memories together. When you look back, do you want to remember how stressed you were, or the laughs and smiles you shared with your fiancé during your engagement shoot?


PHOTOGRAPHY

Local Photo Ops

Akron may be known as the home of LeBron James, but it’s also home to hundreds of scenic views, impressive architecture, and some of the most gorgeous backdrops for photos! Check out this list of picturesque locations to take your engagement or wedding photos.

LMAC Photography

ons Some of thesisseiolonca. Btie sure require adm ahead! to call

Akron Akron Art Museum Akron Civic Theatre Brandywine Falls Canal Park Copley Circle Gorge Metro Park Everett Road Covered Bridge Hale Farm and Village Lock 3 Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens The University of Akron Canton Canton Garden Center Canton Palace Theater Gervasi Vineyard McKinley Monument National First Ladies’ Library Pro Football Hall of Fame

Look your best in PHOTOS Everyone can be photogenic! By learning what your best angles are, smiling naturally, and using these tips, you’ll look stunning in your engagement and wedding photos! • Push your tongue against the roof of your mouth to elongate and slim the look of your neck. • Angle your body about 30-45 degrees from the camera for a more body-slimming look. • Your “sun-kissed bronze” may photograph more orange than tan. Lay off the self-tanner a few days before photos to avoid an oompa loompa effect. • Eliminate a double chin by pushing your neck forward a bit and tilting your chin upward. • Posture makes a huge difference in photographs. Stand up straight and pull your shoulders back and down. er nif Jen

• Don’t forget to smile with your eyes.

Fy

ffe

, T oday’s Bride

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ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment Cost Range*: $800 to $10,000+ *Depends on the kind of Entertainment you hire

RECEPTION

t n e m n i a t Enter

Sabrina Hall Photography

Contract Points

Equipment

• Ask about and confirm deposit requirements, payment plans, and final deadlines. • Make sure a cancellation/refund policy is included. If something happens to a musician who’s not under contract, you could end up without wedding music. • Find out about any hidden fees or extra costs you might have.

•F igure out what the equipment requirements are, such as power outlets, space needed, speakers, and any equipment that you may be expected to supply. •A sk your reception site whether the facility has any restrictions on the number of musicians and pieces of equipment you may bring in. You should also ask about electrical power supply and noise limitations.

Attire guidelines • Let your performers know the dress code beforehand so they dress appropriately.

Timing •C onfirm arrival times. You should expect them to arrive at least an hour in advance and plan on contracting them for at least four hours.

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K From playing the perfect entrance song to keeping your guests dancing, your DJ, Band, or Musician will make sure everyone is having a good time. Be sure to ask these questions: 1. Who will be performing? 2. How can I see you perform prior to my wedding? 3. Have you performed at my venue before?

Yes

4. W ill there be an assistant to help?

No

Yes

5. How much space will you need? 6. How many hours will I have? 7. Do you require breaks?

Yes

No

8. W ill you have music playing during breaks? 9. Do you emcee the reception?

Yes

No

Introductions

10. Will you help structure the timeline?

• Inform your DJ or bandleader before the reception on how to properly pronounce the names of your bridal party and their relationship to the newlyweds (Maid-of-Honor, parents of the bride, etc.).

11. Do you provide a microphone for speeches and toasts? Yes No

LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT VENDORS Cipriano Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Dusk Till Dawn DJs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Russell Sound Lab Wedding DJs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Silver & Strings Trio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Super Sound DJ & Photo Booth Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Today’s Wedding Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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Yes

No Yes

TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

No

12. What if the reception runs long? 13. Do you have a standard music list?

Yes

14. Will you take requests during the reception?

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No

Notes:

No Yes

No


ENTERTAINMENT

Songs We Love We all love a good Twist and Shout or Cotton-Eye Joe, but when it comes to your reception, there are some songs that you’ll remember forever. Choosing these songs can be intimidating, so we’ve chosen our top five faves for each.

Entrance

Mother-Son Dance

• Raise your Glass by P!nk • Signed, Sealed, Delivered

• 93 Million Miles by Jason Mraz • You’ll Be in My Heart by Phil Collins • Have I Told You Lately

by Stevie Wonder

• Stuck Like Glue by Sugarland • Happy by Pharrell Williams • Crazy in Love by Beyonce

First Dance • Still Fallin' by Hunter Hayes • Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton

• Everything Has Changed

by Van Morrison

• Woman, Amen by Dierks Bentley • Never Grow Up by Taylor Swift

Getting Ready: • Wannabe by Spice Girls • Man! I Feel Like a Woman by Shania Twain

• How Sweet It Is

• Power by Little Mix • Dear Future Husband

• Come to Me by Goo Goo Dolls

• Walking on Sunshine

Father-Daughter Dance

Last Dance:

by Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran by James Taylor

• Stand by Me by Ben E King • Not All Heroes Wear Capes by Owl City

• My Girl by The Temptations • My Little Girl by Tim McGraw • Butterfly Fly Away by Miley Cyrus

by Meghan Trainor

by Katrina & The Waves

• Last Dance by Donna Summer • Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

• Bye, Bye, Bye by NSYNC • (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

• You Shook Me All Night Long by ACDC

Must-Haves:

Do-Not-Play:

SPOTIFY In the months leading up to your wedding, save a list of your favorite songs – both old and new to a Must-Play list on Spotify so you don’t forget! Check out our Spotify lists for song ideas and helpful playlists! TodaysBride.com/songs

Quick tips

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ENTERTAINMENT

Band or DJ? Do you want to play mostly...

Current hits Do you have a lot of space available or is space limited?

Plenty of space

Not much room

Do you like line dances like the Electric Slide?

They’re fine

How do you feel about concerts?

Love them!

Classics & oldies

A good mix

Love them

Black Dog Photo Co.

Will you have other activities like a photo booth?

Yes

S trict

Alternatives

No, Just Dancing

What's Your Budget?

They're overrated

DANCE

How long will your reception last?

Flexible 1-3 hours

4-6 hours

Your wedding should be the way you want it to be, right? If you or your fiancé aren’t big fans of dancing, then come up with a different way to celebrate! Here’s a list of some of my favorite alternative reception ideas. • A morning ceremony with a celebratory brunch is a great way to enjoy time with your friends and family. • Offering yard games like beanbag toss, ladder golf, giant Jenga, bocce ball, and croquet are fun and unique options to entertain your guests. • Consider renting old arcade games like Pac Man or a pinball machine, or set up a gaming console for Fortnite battles, Guitar Hero tournaments, and epic Mario Kart racing. • A murder mystery dinner party, karaoke night, or a luau barbeque are all great ways to celebrate with your loved ones while keeping things a little more casual.

Rock The House Entertainment

Band

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

DJ

A DJ can cater their music to your tastes and ensure your guests have a good time!

ey itn Wh

For a one-of-a-kind concert of all your favorite songs, choose a Live Band!

M

ill er

, To day’s Bride


ENTERTAINMENT

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PHOTO BOOTH

Photo Booth Cost Range: $500 to $1,500+ *Depends on equipment rentals, customization, printing packages, and length of rental.

Photo Booths Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Photo booths are a fun way to offer your guests a great souvenir. Sincere or silly, it's impossible to not have fun posing with your loved ones! Remember to ask these questions: 1. What is the standard number of hours? 2. How much space do you need? 3. H ave you worked at my venue before?

Yes

No

4. Will you have a staff member working at the wedding? Yes

No

5. Do guests get copies of the photos? 6. Will I get copies of the photos? 7. D o you provide a scrapbook?

Yes Yes

Yes

No

No No

8. C an the photos be posted to social media?

Yes

No

9. Is there a limit on how many photos can be taken? Yes

No Limit:

10. W ill the photos be posted on your website to download? Yes

No Timeline:

11. W hat customization can you offer?

12. Do you provide props?

Yes

13. Will you close during dinner?

No Yes

No

Notes:

Photo booths are such a fun addition to your reception entertainment! They serve as the perfect guest book or party favor, and your guests will have so much fun posing. There are so many features, from props to backdrops and new technologies. We’ve laid out out all the details you need to know before booking a photo booth. OPEN-AIR LOUNGE OR PRIVATE BOOTH? When you imagine a photo booth, odds are you think of a small, enclosed space with a bench seat and a black curtain. What’s great about these kiosks are that they allow for privacy. Guests can make funny faces and strike silly poses without worrying about an audience watching them. The downside to the classic booth is that there’s a limit on how many people can fit into one shot. With an open-air lounge, guests can pose in small or large groups. They have more freedom to pose, but they may feel self-conscious with others watching. DIGITAL GREEN SCREEN, BACKDROP, OR PROPS? If you’ve decided to have an open air photo booth, you can have a custommade backdrop (like a balloon wall, twinkly lights under white linen, or your initials monogrammed on vinyl) or you can offer a green screen where your guests can choose their own background. Your guests could have photo ops with celebrities or landmarks! Don’t forget about good old-fashioned props. Just imagine your guests dressing up in a cowboy hat and a feather boa. Perfect for an enclosed kiosk or photo lounge, props add an element of playfulness and personalization to your photos. Go silly with feather boas, tiaras, and oversized

sunglasses or more sophisticated with chalkboards for guests to write their own message. PHOTO ALBUM OR SOCIAL MEDIA SHARING? Both you and your guests will most likely want to share these fun photos on social media. Luckily, this option is included in many packages or can be easily added as an add-on with most photo booth companies! Traditionally, memory albums are a common way to collect and view all of the photos taken in the booth. Imagine flipping through these memories on your 20th wedding anniversary! Before booking your photo booth, ask your rental company if they provide either or both of these options. If they do provide a memory album, be sure that two sets of photos are printed: one for your album and one for the guest. OTHER OPTIONS: Other options that may be available are GIF or video photo booths. While these photos can only be shared and collected digitally, they are a great way for guests to leave you a message or advice! In the world of selfies, mirror photo booths are becoming more and more popular at weddings, too! With a mirror photo booth, guests can see what the photo will look like before it’s taken, because they’re quite literally posing in front of a mirror!

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WEDDING STATIONERY

Cost Range*: $250 to $5,000+

g n i d d We y r e n o i Stat

Let out-of-town guests know where to stay.

*Cost range can vary due to number of guests

This card can include directions or your wedding website.

Invitations have become so

much more than the stand-

ard “who,” “what,” “where,” and

“when.” As the first indication of your wedding’s style, they set the tone for your guests’ expectations!

If you're having a seated meal, include dinner options.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Your Save-the-Dates and Wedding Invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your wedding: formal or casual, traditional or modern. Let your invites make a statement louder than words.

Yes

2. Do you offer handwritten calligraphy?

No Yes

3. Can you help us with wording our invites? 4. Do you also offer: Programs Place cards

Menus

Bridal Shower thank you cards

Guest Info card & Other Information card (2)

No Yes

No

Thank you cards

5. How far in advance should I order?

RSVP card (3)

Outer envelope (5) Yes

Notes:

No

AT THE WEDDING Ceremony program Pew cards or “reserved” seating cards Escort cards Place cards Table number cards Menu cards Favor tags AFTER THE WEDDING Thank you cards

Envelope to return RSVP Inner envelope (4)

6. What does it cost to order more? 7. Can I order extra envelopes?

Save-the-Date cards

THE WEDDING INVITATION Invitation card (1)

Remember to ask these questions: 1. Do you offer custom design?

GET STARTED WITH Engagement Party invitations

Envelope liner (6)

Don't forget Postage! Pre-addressing is convenient for guests.

Belly band (7)

LOCAL WEDDING STATIONERY DESIGNERS Brittney Nichole Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Invitations By Kate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Pink Tomato Creative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com 76

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


trenDs WE

Addressing your envelopes Like most aspects of planning your wedding, addressing your invitations has traditions and guidelines to adhere to. When hosting a formal wedding celebration, use these tips to address your envelopes.

Abbreviating Mister and Misses to Mr. and Mrs. is acceptable. North, South, East, West is written in full if it proceeds the street name. Do not abbreviate titles like Doctor or Reverand.

Use full names only, like

Miss Rachel Johnson, not Miss Johnson.

Johnson Akron Ms. Rachel

q

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Photography 34 Penn and Pap

Folds

erie

We guarantee that when your guests receive these in the mail, they’ll expect to have a fun, playful, memorable night at your wedding.

123 South Main Stre et Ohio 44333

Miller Akron

Doctor John

et, N.W. e r t S Y R R E H C 123 Ohio 44333

Rock Paper Scissors, Easton Events, Eric Kelly Photography

A comma is added after the street name and an abbreviation for North, South, East, West is used if it comes after the address.

Wax Seals

Whether you use a stamp engraved with your initials or stick on imitation stickers, your guests will appreciate the personal touch you put into the assembly of each invitation.

Find more tips on your invitations at TodaysBride.com/invitations

GET IT STRAIGHT!

TheLet

terMat e.com

Labels are a major faux pas when it comes to addressing your wedding invitations, but writing out all those addresses can be painful! Split the work between yourself and your fiancé, and ask your wedding party and family if they’d be willing to help. Using this handy little tool from TheLetterMate.com will ensure your lines are straight and perfectly spaced! Still worried about your handwriting? Ask your stationery expert if they offer calligraphy services!

Quick tips

Antique Edges

Plume Calligraphy

Why have straight clean lines like every other invitation when you can have the one-of-akind design of a torn, antique edge?

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WEDDING STATIONERY

Be Our Guest! Or not? One of the more stressful parts of a wedding can be deciding on the guest list. We know you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but you also don’t have an unlimited budget. Here is a quick and easy quiz to help you decide who gets an invite and who will have to see your stunning dress via Facebook.

1. How do you know them?

A. I don’t—my mom knows them.

5. Would you invite them over for dinner?

B. They’re a friend.

A. If I was forced.

C. They’re a colleague.

B. Absolutely!

2. W hen was the last time you spoke with them?

C. Yes, but I would make something quick to eat.

A. Within the last few months. B. Last week or sooner.

6. Do you talk about your wedding a lot in front of this person?

C. Hmm...good question.

A. They’ve heard every single detail.

3. Have they met your fiancé?

B. They probably don’t even know I’m engaged.

A. Yes, a bunch of times! B. Never. C. I think once or twice.

4. Were you invited to their wedding? A. I was in the wedding party. B. I was invited. C. I was not invited.

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C. They’ve heard me talking about it in the office.

7. Will you still talk to this person in five years? A. Yes, most likely. B. Absolutely not. C. I don’t really know.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

SCORING: 1. A=1, B=3, C=2 2. A=2, B=3, C=1 3. A=3, B=1, C=2 4. A=3, B=2, C=1 5. A=1, B=3, C=2 6. A=3, B=1, C=2 7. A=3, B=1, C=2

10-14 Points

YES!

Of course this person should be invited! Why are you even taking this quiz? You clearly care about them and want them to be a part of your special day. Stop questioning it and send that save-the-date already!

7-9 Points

ADD THEM TO B-LIST

Send out your first round of save-the-dates to your “A-List.” If people start to inform you they can’t make it, send out the “B-List” invitations. This way you canmake sure everyone you really want to celebrate your wedding day with has top priority.

0-6 Points

NO.

Skip the invite and just let them enjoy the pictures when you blow up social media with them. You obviously aren’t very close with them, so they shouldn’t be offended—or surprised—that they didn’t get invited. They might actually be a bit relieved.


WEDDING STATIONERY

CREATE A GUEST LIST You, your fiancé, and both sets of parents should sit down to start compiling a guest list about 12 months before your wedding date and finalize it around 6-7 months out. Deciding whether or not to invite children and who should get a plus-one can be sticky subjects. There are exceptions to every rule, but traditionally, everyone over the age of 18 should get a plus-one – especially if they’re married, engaged, or in a long-term relationship. You should never put “No Children” on the invitation. Instead, pre-write the invited guests' names on their RSVP card so they’ll know exactly who is invited and you’ll know who is attending. Make copies of this invitation tracker or use the information to make your own tracker. Rather record things digitally? Visit TodaysBride.com/guestlist for an Excel spreadsheet with the same info for you to use! Perfect for keeping you on track of who you sent which invite to and whether or not you received an RSVP, this sheet will keep you organized and ensure that no one on your list is forgotten!

Name:

Address:

City: Sent:

State: Save-the-Date

Ceremony

Number of people invited: Date Mailed:

Zip:

Reception

#Attending

RSVPed: Shower Gift: Thank you sent Wedding Gift: Thank you sent

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WEDDING STATIONERY

Alicia Lucia Photography

Looks weLove Brittney Nichole Designs

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Plume Calligraphy

Sabrina Hall Photography, Invitations by Kate

Penn and Paperie

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Sabrina Hall Photography, Pink Tomato Creative


WEDDING STATIONERY

It’s in the mail 1 year Begin guest list

10-12 months Brittney Nichole Designs

Begin shopping and order Savethe-Date cards 9 months

Invitation

Etiquette

DON’T dictate dress code.

Mail save-the-dates Note: Do not send a save-the date to anyone who you might not extend an invite to.

6-9 months Finalize guest list

Include this information on your wedding website or spread the news via word-of-mouth.

4-6 months

DO grant a plus-one to any guests over the age of 18. Exceptions can be made for any wedding party members who aren't in a committed relationship. OH Snap! Photography, Pink Tomato Creative

Sabrina Hall Photography, Invitations by Kate

DON’T state that you’re having a child-free wedding. Your invitation addresses who is invited to the wedding and, by omission, who is not.

Order invitations

8 weeks Mail invitations to out-of-town guests 6 weeks Mail invitations to local guests

DO put numbers in the corner of RSVP cards that correspond to a numbered list. This makes it easy to track who’s responded and who hasn’t.

DON’T

include registry information on a wedding invitation. This should be included in bridal shower invites or on your wedding website only.

DO collaborate with your fiancé

2 weeks Call guests who have not RSVPed Emphasis on call: A phone call is the polite way to obtain a response from your guest. Avoid using text or email.

THE BIG DAY!

4 weeks Mail thank you notes

and parents to come up with a final guest list.

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HONEYMOON

Cost Range*: -$1,000 to $5,000+ *cost range can vary due to destination, length of time, and excursions.

Honeymoon PLAN YOUR

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Between passports, travel arrangements, and packing lists, you are sure to get overwhelmed. Trust us when we say "hire a travel agent." Besides making your life easier, they offer discounted booking rates typically at no cost! 1. Do you charge a booking fee?

Yes

No

2. What kind of special package deals can you offer? 3. Can you provide customized trips?

Yes

4. W hat travel services can you book? Cruises Flights Car Rental

Hotel

No Excursions

5. How far in advance should we book? 6. Do you recommend one property or resort over another? If so, why? 7. If we have questions during our trip, are you available? Yes No 8. Do you have a honeymoon registry?

Yes

9. Do you provide:

Currency exchange

Travel insurance

Notes:

No

Why You Should Hire a Travel Agent When it comes to travel agents, a lot of people don’t realize that they don’t charge for their services! Because they work directly with the resorts, they can get you the best deals, discounts, and packages at no cost to you! Plus, they have experience traveling to different destinations, and know the in’s-and-out’s of the area and customs. Because of these experiences, they can recommend hidden gems and fun excursions you might not find on your own, as well as advise you on dialect, customs, travel restrictions, visas, and more. If you’ve ever made travel arrangements before, you know that it can be stressful and overwhelming – especially if you’ve never visited the destination before. Between your job and the stresses of planning the perfect wedding, you don’t have time to research resorts, book transportation, and schedule excursions. Handing all of that responsibility over to a travel agent will free you up to focus on other wedding details. They’ll organize all of the confirmations, arrangements, activities, and details so that all you have to do is relax and enjoy your vacation.

LOCAL HOME, TRAVEL & LODGING VENDORS AAA Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Donna's Premier Lodging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 J Sullivan Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 M. C. Robinson & Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Sebring Mansion Inn & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 UnlimitedTrips.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com 82

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"


Marriage is an adventure, so start it off right! When planned correctly, your honeymoon will be an escape for you and your new spouse to relax, make new and lasting memories, experience the culture and excursions of any destination, and create your own adventures. UnlimitedTrips can do all that for you, no matter your budget! With our access to exclusive discounts and packages, deals you won’t find online, and a wealth of knowledge of various locations and resorts, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your only job is to soak up the sun! kotor bay - Montenegro

santorini island - greece

Bali Island – Indonesia

So what are you waiting for?

Bora Bora - French Polynesia

Venice - Italy Call for your FREE Honeymoon or Destination Wedding consultation ($100 value). Mention Promo code TB19.

(330) 940-4321 UnlimitedTrips.com /unlimitedtrips


HONEYMOON

Where Should you Honeymoon?

Your honeymoon will be the most romantic and relaxing getaway of your life. It’s the first vacation you’ll have as newlyweds, and after planning the event of the century, you deserve to de-stress and unwind! Take a deep breath and pull out your travel guide…this flow chart is designed to help you choose between an international and domestic trip!

How long do you want your trip to be?

7

+ days

Do you plan on buying a lot of souvenirs?

no

yes

-

6days Would you like to stay close to home?

no

yes

Are you interested in learning a new language?

yes

no

Do you have a Passport?

yes

no Do you have at least 4 months before your honeymoon to get a passport?

yes

International

International travel is a great experience for any couple, but it has a lot of requirements before you jet off! Be prepared and consult with a travel agent to have a honeymoon you will never forget!

no

Domestic

Domestic travel offers the variety of international places without the extra prep time. There is also less travel time, so you get the most out of your vacation days when you spend them in the United States!

Sponsored by UnlimitedTrips.com

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BEFORE 4 months 3 weeks Apply for passport It could take 4-8 weeks for your passport to be processed. Four months will cover you if you need to apply a second time.

Get Marriage License

Wedding

2 weeks

Celebrate!

Apply for a name change

What you need to get a passport: If you already have a passport, make sure it is valid for longer than 6 months past your honeymoon date. Some countries may refuse you entrance if your passport expires sooner than 6 months.

Passport

U.S. State Department's Form DS-11 (application) pptform.state.gov

roof of citizenship (original Certified P

Birth Certificate, naturalization records, citizenship records, previous passport) Proof of identity (driver’s license, military id, social security card)

”x2” passport photograph. Some post 2

offices will do this for you or you can go to a drug store to get a photo taken.

AFTER 4-6 weeks

NEW TSA RULE

Submit your passport amendment application

HONEYMOON

When to get your

10 years Renew your passport

Quick tips

Starting October 1, 2020, any Ohio state driver’s licenses issued before July 2, 2018 will not be accepted by the TSA for both domestic and international flyers. Before this date, you will either have to obtain and bring identity documents approved by the TSA when you fly or acquire a Compliant state ID. To receive your new license, you’ll need to bring proof of these things to your BMV: · Your full legal name – make sure your license and passport match · Date of Birth

· Social Security Number · 2 copies of proof of Ohio Residency · Proof of Legal Presence

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HONEYMOON

Top 5 Travel Tips 1• P ack each suitcase half with your clothes and half with your spouse’s. That way, if one of the bags gets lost, you both have enough to get by! 2• A rrange for a house-sitter. Make sure you ask someone to collect your mail, water your plants, and care for your pets.

Destination Weddings

Both a Wedding Planner and a Travel Agent play a big role in making sure your destination wedding goes off without a hitch, and neither should be expected to handle it on their own. While a travel agent does a lot of the planning, a wedding planner will handle the execution! Here are some reasons why you should hire both vendors for your destination wedding:

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TODAY'S BRIDE 8-12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

5• U se a travel agent. They will tell you about travel advisories, cultural differences to be aware of, and whether or not you need a travel visa.

l he

86

When it comes to questions about customs, religious ceremonies, and legality, your Wedding Planner and Travel Agent will work together to make sure you’re prepared! From researching marriage licenses and visas to speaking with Officiants and Customs Officers, your vendors will take care of all the tiny details so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

4• B ook your reservations using the name on your passport. The name on your passport must match your flight and hotel reservations. It’s easiest to use your maiden name to book all of this so they all match and then change your name when you get home.

Rac

You’ll need a Travel Agent to help find the perfect destination for your wedding to happen! Oceanfront, cliffside, or cruise ship, they’ll recommend and book different venues. Once you’ve chosen where to say your “I Dos,” your Wedding Planner will organize the logistics of making it happen!

A Travel Agent will ensure that all of your guests’ travel arrangements are booked on budget. A Wedding Planner will handle guest accommodations, making sure their rooms are satisfactory, the activities are scheduled, and handle any crises that may arise.

3• G et noticeable luggage. My husband and I have black luggage, so I bought us bright pink luggage tags. Whether you use a ribbon, eye-catching luggage tags, or buy colorful luggage, make sure it stands out.

Ya gl , T oda y’s Bride


HONEYMOON

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COVER FEATURE

We’re always amazed by what imagination and a little bit of love can accomplish. In the following Real Weddings, keep in mind that these couples started out just like you – with a ring and a vision. With the help of Northeast Ohio vendors – and inspiration from magazines just like this – they brought that vision to life. We hope that their weddings will inspire you to do the same.

l a Re

s g n i d d e W CONTRIBUTORS: Tyler Gardens | Open Aire Affairs, Emily Wren Photography, Michele Wilderman, Arielle Fera Events, Faye and Renee, Erin Cole, The Black Tux, Golden Hour Paper, Clara’s Groovy Deliciousness, L.Priori, Trousseau Style, Hello, Bird

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Alexa & Luke

SEPTEMBER 8 • CANTON PHOTOGRAPHY:

SABRINA HALL PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridal Gown: The Dress Bridal Boutique Bridesmaids’ Gowns: David’s Bridal Cake: Tiffany’s Bakery Entertainment: Cleveland Music Group Flowers: Nikki’s Perfect Petal Designs Venue & Catering: Gervasi Vineyard Videography: Elite Entertainment Wedding Planner & Rentals: reInspired Bride

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TODAY'S BRIDE


Kelley & Quinn JUNE 30 • AKRON PHOTOGRAPHY:

BLACK DOG PHOTO, CO. Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridesmaids’ Gowns: David’s Bridal Cake: West Side Bakery Ceremony Location: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Guest Accommodations: Hilton Akron Fairlawn Hotel Linens: L’Nique Specialty Linen Rental Photo Booth: Clear Choice Photobooth Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse Wedding Planner: Creative Transformations Styling & Events

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Rachel & Nick MAY 19 • CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY:

LMAC PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridal Gown: The Dress Bridal Boutique Lighting & Reception Entertainment: Cleveland Music Group Linens: L’Nique Specialty Linen Rental Transportation: Statement Limousine Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse

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TODAY'S BRIDE


Sarah & Brian JULY 14 • NORTH CANTON PHOTOGRAPHY:

OH SNAP! PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Doreen Leaf Designs Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Tuxedos: Tuxedo Junction

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WE DO. We bring the best of Northeast Ohio wedding vendors directly to you, all UnDER ONE ROOF!

Want FREE tickets to ALL the shows? Take our survey and receive 2 tickets to each of our upcoming shows www.TodaysBride.com/AKR19 Participant will be mailed a reusable ticket for admission to 5 Today’s Bride Shows within 2-4 weeks.


TO DO. I DO. See The fashions • Taste the cakes Be inspired • Meet local wedding vendors Plan your wedding!

We make saying "I Do" easY. From finding A dress to booking A honeymoon and everything in between!

®

WEDDING SHOWS June 9, 2019

AUGUST 25, 2019

JANUARY 12, 2020

JANUARY 25 & 26, 2020

I-X Center Cleveland

John S. Knight Center Downtown Akron

John S. Knight Center Downtown Akron

I-X Center Cleveland

VISIT TODAYSBRIDE.COM FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS AND MORE DATES.


WAYNE COUNTY

Weddings in

WAYNE County

Wedding Pros Standout in NE Ohio

Where in the world is Wayne County?

Wayne County is a scenic, countryesque region of Northeast Ohio that is home to cities like Wooster and Orrville. Best known for JM Smuckers Company, The College of Wooster, and the original Buehler’s, Wayne County exudes a sense of familiarity and comfort. Visiting this welcoming area is like coming home… no matter how far you’ve traveled!

Ohio has some of the most beautiful locations to throw the perfect wedding. From sleek city skylines to rustic country barns, scenic rolling hills, and grand historic buildings, Ohio offers every bride her ideal backdrop. Wayne County is right in the center of it all! Located just a short drive away from the bustle of Akron, Canton, Youngstown, and Cleveland, Wayne County is the perfect spot to search for wedding inspiration and vendors!

From Akron to Wooster 35 miles (45 minutes)

When planning any wedding, the most important aspect is to cater every detail to reflect your personality. Wayne County wedding vendors have been practicing this modern philosophy for years! Marrying small-town charm with modern trends, Wayne County has the facilities and professionals to make even the most trendsetting, Pinterest-worthy weddings a reality. The professionals here are some of the best in the industry! Constantly researching and perfecting the latest and greatest trends, these wedding experts can cater to any bride’s vision! No matter where you plan to marry in Northeast Ohio, count on Wayne County wedding vendors to combine tradition and style to make a beautiful marriage.

From Dover to Wooster 35 miles (53 minutes)

From Youngstown to Wooster 82 miles (1 hour & 30 minutes) From Massillon to Wooster 27 miles (33 minutes)

From Canton to Wooster 33 miles (40 minutes) From Kent to Wooster 46 miles (1 hour & 4 minutes) From Cleveland to Wooster 61 miles (1 hour & 10 minutes) (According to Google Map Results)

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In case you don't know!



WAYNE COUNTY


Whether fall, spring, summer, or winter, peach is the

perfect color for any wedding, no matter the season! We love how versatile and complementary it is, as it can blend with almost any color scheme or set the

entire theme as it does in this styled shoot! Using hues of blush and gold to bring out it’s many shades – plus adding accents of its fruit namesake – we think every aspect of this wedding is “just peachy.” Completely

imagined and designed by some of the area’s best, this impressive styled shoot showcases the elegance, talent, collaboration, and professionalism you can expect from Wayne County’s wedding vendors.

CONTRIBUTORS: Bar Service: Rosie Camper Bar Bridal Attire & Accessories: Lavender Bridal Salon Cake & Catering: Buehler’s Bakery Floral Design: The Bouquet Shop Furniture, Decor, and Lighting: All Events Rental Photography: OH Snap! Photography Stationery: Pink Tomato Creative Venue: Shisler Conference Center

WAYNE COUNTY

Peach PRETTY AS A


WAYNE COUNTY

inspired! WAYNE COUNTY

From a boho-chic farm wedding to a sophisticated and elegant garden party, a colorful and casual barn celebration or a romantic ballroom soiree, these themes were inspired by the natural beauty and innovative professionals found in Wayne County. Visit for yourself to discover what inspires you!

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Trin Jensen Photography

Rebekah J Murray Photography

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OH Snap! Photography

Alicia Lucia Photography


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WAYNE COUNTY

FANTASTIC

Favors

If you don’t want to waste money on favors that get left behind, be sure to choose awesome gifts! We have a few suggestions of popular, crowd-pleasing favors your guests are sure to love. GIVE THIS: Photo Booth Strips The best part about this favor is that guests can opt in or out. If they want a fun souvenir to remember your wedding, it’s perfect to frame! If they’re busy dancing, they don’t have to feel bad for not partaking. NOT THAT: Matches While “The perfect match” is a cute quote for these favors, this gift can often get left behind. Thanks to lighters, why does a guest need a box of matches with your names and wedding date?

Abby Caldwell Photography

GIVE THIS: Jam or Jelly When getting married so close to J.M. Smuckers, how can you resist offering jelly-filled pastries or personalized small jars of fresh preserves with “Spread the Love” labels? NOT THAT: Mints If you want your wedding to stand out, forgo the mints. This would be the umpteenth wedding at which your guests received them as favors, and the umpteenth wedding where they get left on the table.

Evermine

GIVE THIS: Succulents Succulents are nearly impossible to kill; they just need a bit of water and light – even if it’s fluorescent! Whether your guest is a gardener or forgets to water his/her plants each day, their succulent will continue to thrive, reminding them of your wedding. NOT THAT: Seeds Unlike succulents, plants take a lot of work in order to bloom and stay alive. Unless your guests have a green thumb, these favors will most likely end up lost in the garage.

GIVE THIS: S’mores This sweet treat is the perfect way to end the evening. Guests can gather around a bonfire to roast their marshmallows or take it home and save it for later. They’ll be begging for s’more (get it?!) and the quote “Sending you S’more Love” is just too cute to pass up. NOT THAT: Coasters Most people like to choose their own home decor. Unless your favors are local, hand-painted, or ceramic coasters, they'll end up forgotten in junk drawers, never to be used. GIVE THIS: Late-Night Snack Soft pretzels from a food truck, hand-cut French fries, or bags of popcorn – whatever you choose, a salty late-night snack is just what your guests will need after dancing the night away. Make sure to have extras. This is a favor your guests will want seconds of! NOT THAT: Bottle Openers Most of your guests already have a collection of bottle openers, even though they have a trusty go-to they use every time. A more unique favor will ensure that you don’t waste money on just one of many. GIVE THIS: Candy Apples Candy or caramel apples wrapped in cellophane with the words “’Appily Ever After” stamped on them are adorable, and make for the perfect late-night treat. Your guests will love indulging in them on the way back home! NOT THAT: Jordan Almonds While candied almonds come in pretty pastel colors, these 1920s candies should stay at your grandparents’ house.

Favors are a considerate way to show your appreciation and gratitude for your guests’ presence at your wedding. From the gifts they’ve purchased to the parties and showers they’ve attended to dedicating an entire day to celebrating your marriage, your guests have invested a lot of time and money in your wedding. Gifting a small token is the least you can do to say thank you!

LOCAL FAVOR AND GIFTS VENDORS Candyapple & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 D Marie Design Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Mel’s Sweet Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Sabrina Hall Photography

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WAYNE COUNTY

RUSTIC TO REFINED

Barn weddings are super popular in Northeast Ohio because of the picturesque scenery, indoor and outdoor spaces, and the blank canvas that allows couples to decorate however they please! But because these spaces have been in vogue for so many years now, much of the rustic decor has come to be expected and unoriginal. Shake things up at your barn wedding by substituting some of these common rustic wedding features with up-and-coming must-haves!

Little Cherry Cake Company

India Earl Photography

Instead of: Naked Cakes

Do: Textured Buttercream

Correct us if we’re wrong, but everyone’s favorite part of a cake is the icing! Give your guests what they want by opting for a tiered cake with textured buttercream. Whether your baker uses paint strokes, swirls, or piped pearls, your cake will look just as pretty and taste even better.

Marisa Albrecht Photography

Instead of: Burlap

Do: White Chiffon

Burlap is brown, scratchy, and used to carry potatoes. It’s not meant to play a prominent role in one of the most elegant and memorable events in your life. Drape white chiffon from the ceiling beams, use it as a table runner, or tie it back at the entrance to elevate your barn’s atmosphere without breaking the budget.

AXIOO BALI

Instead of: Baby’s Breath

Do: Boxwood

Monochromatic wedding bouquets are trending, but adding texture and diversity to your bouquet is important for an eye-catching arrangement! While we’re not opposed to using baby’s breath sparingly, consider using wax flowers, eucalyptus leaves, or boxwood as a filler, instead. 104

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FLOWERS

Flowers Cost Range: $500 to $7,000+ *Prices will vary depending on type of flowers, season, and quantity

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K With the different varieties and colors, choosing just one bouquet to fit your style and theme is nearly impossible! Choos-

s r e w o l F

ing the right Wedding Florist will ensure that your flowers are consistent, in-season, and exactly how you imagined. Questions to ask: 1. When do I need to order flowers?

2. Do you have a portfolio?

Yes

No

3. Have you ever done wedding flowers before?

Yes

4. What floral decor options do you offer? Vases

Candle Holders

Ceremony

Arches

Cake

Centerpieces

Pedestals

Crown

O ther:

5. Do you work with:

Fresh Flowers

Silk Flowers

6. What kind of flowers do you recommend?

7. What is your substitution policy?

8. I s there a charge for delivery?

Yes

No

9. Who will set up the day of my wedding?

10. Will you stay at the ceremony for arranging and distributing the flowers?

Yes

No

11. Will you transfer the flowers between the venues? Yes

No

12. When do decor items need to be returned? Sofia Ferreira, André Teixeira, & Brancoprata

13. What is your policy for lost or damaged items?

14. Do you do floral preservation?

LOCAL FLORAL DESIGNERS ACME Fresh Market Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Buehler's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Kelli’s Blossom Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Nikki’s Perfect Petal Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 The Bouquet Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 the Garden by the Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Timeless Moments Flower Preservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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No

Yes

15. When should I preserve my bouquet?

Notes:

No


CUSTOM DESIGNED

WeddingFLOWERS

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today! CALL: 330-644-9224

FREE Toss Bouquet with Wedding Flower Order! ($25 Value / Minimum Order of $250)


FLOWERS

Emily Delamater Photography

Sabrina Hall Photogrphy

Bouquets Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Amy Arrington Photography

BEAUTIFUL

Feather and Twine

Black Dog Photo Co. OH Snap! Photography

LMAC Photography

Tec Petaja Photography

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Flowers by Season

One way to save money on your wedding is to request flowers that are in-season. No matter when you get married, there is a wide variety of gorgeous flowers to choose from. Even if your favorite flower isn’t in season, you can still have it in your bouquet! It just may cost a little more. Here are a few of our favorite stems that are available and budget – friendly for each season!

trenDs WE

q

Sunflower

Tulip

Zinnia

Peony

Aster

Ranunculus

Ranunculus

Lilac

Delphinium

Lisianthus Calla Lily

Lisianthus

Spring

Summer

Dahlias are only available in select seasons but we love the giant impact this oversized flower has on a bouquet.

Carnation

Cosmos

Dana Cubbage Weddings

Gardenia

Asiatic Lily

Orchid

Dahlia

Lily

Chrysanthemum

Bright Colors

Camellia

Delphinium

Fall

Giant Dahlia

Calla Lily

Ameris Photogr aphy

Instead of a bouquet that blends in to your white dress, select colorful flowers to add brightness and drama to your look.

Anemone

Winter

FLOWERS AND THEIR MEANINGS Choosing your wedding flowers can be difficult, especially in the spring and summer when so many are in season. To narrow your selection, consider the meanings behind each flower and create a bouquet that tells your love story. No single flower will cover all the emotions that will come up on your wedding day, so choose a few that are perfect for you! Daisy = Innocence

Protea = Courage and diversity Rose: Red = Love White = Innocence Yellow = Joy Sunflower = Dedicated love

Asymmetric he

A

Peony = A happy marriage

n

Hydrangea = Perseverance and heartfelt emotion

Orchid = Refinement and charm

lee Col

Daffodil = New beginnings

Magnolia = Nobility and dignity

rn ,

Shea Christine Photography

This trend is all about creating a flawless bouquet by embracing the beauty of nature’s imperfections. Tod ay’s Bride

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FLOWERS

inspiration LOCAL

As one of the more visual aspects of a wedding, flowers bring color, texture, and dimension to a theme. No matter what your wedding’s color scheme is, local florists have used the beauty of jewels to come up with gorgeous bouquets to inspire your own! See their cake counterparts on page 124. Photos by: OH Snap! Photography

Sapphire

CREATED BY: ACME FRESH MARKET Thought to be a reflection of the heavens, sapphires symbolize joy and prosperity. This arrangement combines blue hydrangeas, calla lilies, and white roses symbolizing marriage and new beginnings for one sentimental and beautiful wedding bouquet.

Emerald

CREATED BY: ACME FRESH MARKET Emeralds symbolize hope for the future and are known as the stone of successful love – perfect sentiments for your wedding bouquet! Add lemon leaves, eucalyptus, and bracken fern to a bouquet of white roses and hydrangeas for a touch of emerald.

Amethyst

CREATED BY: THE BOUQUET SHOP As Pantone’s color of the year is Ultraviolet, Amethyst is the perfect jewel tone for your bouquet! Luckily, many types of flowers bloom in purple. Combine varying shades of lisianthus, roses, zinnias, anemone, dahlias, and even kale for a dynamic arrangement.

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FLOWERS

Topaz

CREATED BY: BUEHLER’S Those who possess a topaz stone will find true love and affection. Carry a topaz bouquet at your wedding to show its promise has come true! Its yellowy orange color is perfect for a fall wedding, so use flowers like mums, zinnia, celosia, black eyed Susan, and Queen Anne’s lace.

Diamond CREATED BY: BUEHLER’S

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend! They are also the most common stone used for engagement rings. To reflect your bling without detracting from it, create a bouquet of white orchids, ranunculuses, roses, and hydrangeas, then secure the stems with white fabric and crystals.

Morganite CREATED BY: NIKKI’S PERFECT PETAL DESIGNS

Morganite is the perfect stone for those who love rose gold. It is the crystal of divine love, bringing about compassion. Embrace the Millennial Pink trend with a gorgeous blush bouquet made up of roses, succulents, lemon leaves, and the ever-popular protea.

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DECOR

Decor Adore we

Anna Delores Photography

PLANNING YOUR DECOR How do I go about choosing my theme/style?

t forget * Don’ to take our

When considering a theme, try not to overthink it; instead, choose something that you and your partner both love in everyday life. Do you travel often? Think about using a map for your seating plan.

quiz on page 8

If you choose not to have a theme, your wedding can center around a color scheme. To choose your colors, it’s important to know what season you’ll be getting married in. Bright, vibrant colors are great for summer; pastels are perfect for spring; neutrals work well for fall; and winter is perfect for muted shades.

How much pinning is too much? The best way to avoid getting overwhelmed by all your ideas is to set a date when you’ll stop looking for decor inspiration. Before deciding whether or not to incorporate a piece into your wedding, ask yourself these two questions: Does this item make me excited or happy? Does it match the overall theme of my wedding? If either of these answers is “no” then move on.

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Should I rent or buy decor? We’re huge supporters of renting decor! Not only is renting often a more economical solution, it also helps eliminate hours of searching, stress, and potential storage issues. And let’s be real – are all 50 of those vintage lanterns or geometric centerpieces going to do anything besides collect dust in your basement? You can also use rental companies as a source for ideas. Renting materials gives you access to the latest styles in decor, table settings, linens, chair covers, and more!

DECOR TO CONSIDER Linens

Dishes

Lighting

Furniture

Flowers

Ice Sculptures

Candles

Tents

Signage

Dance Floor

LOCAL DECOR & RENTAL COMPANIES

How can I pinch pennies while still making a big impact?

All Events Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

First, pick a venue that already has a chic ambiance of its own. When visiting, be sure to take in the details. Towering pillars, fine Persian rugs on the floors, or an amazing crystal chandelier as the room’s focal point will add something extra to your reception.

Elegant Ice Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

You’ll also want to invest in elements that will have the biggest impact. Dramatic uplighting, a dance floor gobo, or a pillar of flowers is sure to set the scene and create the effect you want.

Sitting Pretty Linens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Canton Chair Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Event Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116, 117 L’Nique Specialty Linen Rentals . . . . . . . 115 Miller's Party Rental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Reliable Onsite – Restroom Trailers . . . . 149 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . 119 Sully’s All Occasions Party Rental . . . . . 131 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com


DECOR

More decor to explore

Decor doesn’t just mean colorful accent pieces and gorgeous floral arrangements. You can decorate your venue with so much more! Check out some of our favorite elements to bring your style and theme into every aspect of your reception space. Tents If you’re having an outdoor wedding, protect your investment by renting a tent. Not only will the roof and walls keep you dry if it rains, but you can add air conditioners or heaters! A tent offers you year-round outdoor access to beautiful Ohio scenery, and is a blank canvas for you to decorate according to your theme!

Signage Not only are wedding signs a huge trend right now, but they’re also practical! Give your guests some direction on where to sit at your ceremony, remind them to share pics on social media using your hashtag, and let them know what’s on the menu! You can even add a sentimental touch with romantic quotes, lyrics, or poems in calligraphy.

Furniture Whether you create a lounge space, host a cocktail hour, or simply dress up your dinner tables, you’ll need to rent furniture! Decide what theme you’re going for and choose seats, tables, ottomans, couches, and rugs that fit your theme! Choose a loveseat for you and your fiancé at your sweetheart table and chiavari chairs for your dinner tables! Or, add a photo booth lounge with Victorian couches or wooden swings!

Dance Floor Odds are, your guests will spend the majority of your reception on the dance floor. Make it the focal piece of the night by adding a gobo light – stenciled with your initials or a funky design – or by adding your own flooring! Not only does this designate the dance area, but it can be quite helpful for outdoor weddings so your shoes don’t sink into the ground. Rent a checker-patterned floor, lay down rugs, design a custom acrylic sticker, or create a raised platform to serve as a stage!

ICE, ICE... BABY! If you want to stand out and elevate your wedding to the next level, an ice sculpture is the way to do it! An ice sculpture can add that special touch of glamour to your reception. You can make this decor element even more memorable by having the sculptor carve it throughout the reception! Have your guests guess what he or she is carving and give away prizes to the best guess.

ru l

e

Z by Ab

Some ice sculpture ideas are: • A monogram of your initials • A sculpture of an anchor, intertwining rings, swans, hearts, etc. • A display of flowers in an ice block • A wine holder (keep your drinks chilled!) • A food bar for seafood • An alcohol luge • A bar top

l,

Tod ay’s Bride

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DECOR

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K covers that match or complement your color scheme. Questions to ask: 1. Do you offer? Sashes Chair Covers Napkins

Tablecloths

Other

2. Have you worked with my venue before?

Yes

No

3. H ow much do you charge for your linens?

4. Do you have samples or a showroom of your linens? Yes

No

5. How do you clean and press your linens?

6. Will you:

Dress the tables/chairs

Show me how

7. W ill you come collect your linens after the reception? Yes

No

LINENS YOU MAY NEED Napkins

Chair sash

Tablecloth

Table skirts

able liner (for sheer T tablecloths)

Pew drapes

Table runner

Drapery for decor or backdrops

Chair cover

Notes:

Sabrina Hall Photography

Tie everything together with tablecloths, napkins, and chair

Linens Cost Range: $500 to $5,000+

LovelyLinens Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Linens play an important role in creating the basis to a consistent look throughout your reception space. White linens are more commonly used for weddings because of their clean lines and blank canvas, but we love the idea of adding some color or texture. Try mixing things up by using an array of shades within your color scheme, adding a printed table runner across white linens, or placing colorful, folded napkins on each plate! Dressing your chairs in covers or sashes will create a more unified look and a touch of elegance. There are a variety of ways to tie knots and sashes on chairs. After perusing through rental warehouses or online galleries, ask your rental company if they’ll be setting up the linens or if they can teach you how to properly execute the look! Finally, well-placed drapes can create an ethereal or elegant atmosphere. A solid, opaque linen is the perfect backdrop for a cake display, but somewhat sheer drapes tied to wooden pil-

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lars will add an effortlessly chic look to your venue. Your guests will spend a lot of time at their tables. Make sure they have something worth looking at by choosing lovely linens!

OH Snap! Photography

Megan Clouse Photography


DECOR

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DECOR

Lighting Cost Range: $500 to $7,000+

lighting Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K

From a dimly lit, romantic feel to a bright and colorful disco, the lighting will create the perfect atmosphere for your celebration. Questions to ask:

LMAC Phototgraphy

1. What kind of lighting options do you offer?

2. Will you help with the design options?

Yes

3. Can you match the lighting to our colors? 4. H ave you worked at my venue before?

No Yes

Yes

5. Will you visit my venue to get some ideas?

Yes

No No No

6. What kind of requirements do you need from my venue?

7. Do you own your own equipment?

Yes

8. How much space do you need?

9. How do you hide cables?

Notes:

No

Wedding lighting is not just about illuminating a room. The lighting design you choose will shape your event and set the right tone like no other element there. No matter what your theme, we’ve come up with an option to light your venue and keep the party going, even after dark. Chandeliers Chandeliers can add an air of class and elegance to any venue. Wrap some fabric around the base to cover up any unsightly chains or cords. For a whimsical, romantic feel, drape fabric, greenery, flowers, or crystals from the chandelier. You could also collect chandeliers of different sizes, metals, bulbs, and styles to create a bohemian, eclectic space. Candles Candles are the ultimate “mood lighting.” The flickering flame creates a warm, cozy, romantic ambiance. Combine shapes, sizes, and heights for a centerpiece, use them to light up your cake table, or place them along the aisle of your ceremony! Use candles that are fragrance-free, so you don’t create an overwhelmingly perfumed environment. Lanterns Hang antique lanterns at different levels to create an enchanting ceiling display, or line the path to your venue with vintage or paper lanterns to guide the way. Hang round paper lanterns from a tree or arch behind you while you say your “I Dos.” You can even have a helium paper lantern release at your reception departure! Bistro Lighting Bistro lighting is a favorite at weddings because of its versatility! String them above your venue space or dance floor. Hang them from your table or wall and cover with fabric for a muted backdrop. Wrap them around trees or pillars. The possibilities are endless! Edison Bulbs An Edison light bulb is transparent, with visible winding filaments. They may be uniquely-shaped or have a sepia, antique-like tint to the glass. Hang bulbs individ-

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DECOR

ually or in a bundle. The vintage tone will cast an inviting and warm hue at your reception. LED Dance Floor Bring some life to your reception with an LED dance floor! These floors turn any venue into a nightclub and are guaranteed to keep guests dancing all night long. They can pulse, create patterns, and even become interactive with your guests’ movements. Uplighting True to their name, these lights are directed upward, highlighting walls, pillars, cakes, centerpieces, and more. You can even place them under tablecloths, curtains, and drapery to add a colorful glow. These lights come in a variety of colors, so you can choose a look that complements your color scheme or venue. Gobo Lights Gobo lights are stencils put over a spotlight that can be projected onto

Natalie Landrum Photography, Sirpilla Soirees

floors, walls, ceilings, or even fabric! Create a custom monogram of your name to light up the wall behind the head table or project a design onto the dance floor! Fluorescent lights aren’t flattering to anyone. If you want wedding photos that don’t wash you out, you’ll want to incorporate some atmospheric lighting. Consult with an expert to get their ideas of what works best at your venue.

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CAKES

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Cake Cost Range: $1.50 per slice to $10+ per slice

e c e i P e k a c f o

From layers of heavenly flavors to crumbly cookies, your sweet confections are sure to leave your guests satisfied. Questions you should ask: 1. Do you have a cake portfolio?

Yes

2. Are your designs customizable? 3. Can you match my colors?

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

4. W hat flavors do you offer?

5. Can I do a taste test of the flavors? Yes

No Fee:

6. How far in advance are the cakes prepared?

7. Do you provide cake-cutting services? Yes

No Fee:

8. A re cakes charged by the slice or tier? 9. Do you offer cake accessories?

Slice

Cake Topper

Sometimes your caterer will offer this service. Tier

Knife

10. Do you offer other options? Cookies

Pastries

Cupcakes

Other

11. Can you provide a box/wrapping for the top of the cake? Yes No 12. When do I need to order? 13. Is there a delivery or set-up charge? Yes

No Fee:

14. When will the cake be delivered/set up? 15. Are you familiar with my venue?

Yes

No

Notes:

LOCAL CAKE & DESSERTS VENDORS

Flour & Flourish Jessica White Photography

ACME Fresh Market Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . 123 A Cupcake a Day . . . . . . . 129 Buehler’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

Candyapple & Co. . . . . . . 137 Dancing Desserts . . . . . . 129

Mel’s Sweet Shop . . 129, 133 Reeves Cake Shop . . . . . . 135 Something’s Popping . . 129 Tiffany’s Bakery . . . . . . . . 142 West Side Bakery . . . . . . . 136

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How big of a cake do I need? Trying to figure out how much cake to serve your guests is a puzzle! How much cake will your guests eat and how many tiers should you have? Keep in mind that your guests will eat about 1.5 servings if you don't have a dessert bar. If you're trying to make a grand statement with a tall cake by adding fake layers of styrofoam, you'll be disappointed to find out that the cost isn't all that much cheaper! Opt for a layer of cake instead - it's always better to have too much than not enough. Use the diagram to the side to figure out how much cake you'll need!

trenDs WE 6" 8" 10" 12" 14"

q

+10 GUESTS 10 TOTAL SERVINGS

+12-14 GUESTS 22-24 TOTAL SERVINGS

+24-26 GUESTS 46-48 TOTAL SERVINGS

Groom’s Cake

+38-40 GUESTS 84-86 TOTAL SERVINGS

+54-56 GUESTS 138-142 TOTAL SERVINGS

Baked Custom Cakes

In a day that’s mostly centered around the bride, it’s nice to show the groom a little love. Surprise him by collaborating with your bakery to design a groom’s cake to serve at the rehearsal dinner!

Photography by Lahna Marie

Script

Whether stenciled, hand-painted, or printed onto fondant, cursive script adds a romantic touch to your wedding cake.

Autumn Nomad, Anne Skidmore Photography

Dollybird Bakes

Top 5 Things to Know 1. P lan 1.5 servings of cake for each guest. If you're having a dessert bar, order less cake.

Autumn Nomad, Cait Bourgault Photography

shops may provide a box or wrapping for the top tier, so be sure to ask if this is included or an extra cost.

2. Fondant is a type of icing that is perfect for creating sculptures and adornments, and is often draped over the cake for a smooth finish. However, its clay-like consistency doesn’t agree with every couple’s taste.

4. You should start researching bakers in your area 8 months before your wedding and try to place the order about 3 months before.

3. T raditionally, the top tier of your wedding cake is kept frozen and eaten as a celebration on your first anniversary. Some cake

5. Most bakeries will be willing to host a taste test for you and your fiancé, though some may charge a fee or limit the number of flavor samples.

Textured Buttercream

India Ea

rl Phot ograph y

Buttercream is a tastier option for wedding cake icing. With buttercream, you can smooth imperfections, or add petals, swirls, or lines.

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Sabrina Hall Photography

CAKES

Sweet! Soooo

Since many couples are choosing to have non-traditional wedding celebrations, it only makes sense that they would opt for sweet treats that also stray from the norm. Although you might choose to serve these confectionary favorites in addition to a more traditional wedding cake, these desserts can also hold their own.

1. Cupcakes or Cake Pops – Adorable, customizable, and so much fun to eat, miniature cakes are the perfect compromise of tradition and originality. 2. Donuts – Who doesn’t love a fluffy glazed donut? This universally loved treat is the perfect party favor and can be stacked in a tier to resemble a cake. 3. Macarons – Macarons are a tasty treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth! With an array of flavors – ranging from tart lemon to sweet raspberry to rich tiramisu – you'll want to have plenty of these, as your guests won’t be able to get enough! 4. Candy or Mini-Dessert Table – Whether you display an array of your favorite candy, offer up mini cheesecake bites, or serve a combination of the two, these scrumptious desserts are sure to be a hit with your guests. 5. Assortment of Pies – Pies could very well be the comfort food of the dessert realm! In fact, it’s quite possible your guests won’t remember cake was even an option once they get their hands on a slice of apple crumb pie!

WHAT IS THAT FROSTING? The cake is one aspect of your wedding that guests will anticipate both seeing and tasting! Make sure you choose the right frosting for your design and taste. Here’s my take on the difference between wedding cake frostings: ondant – This modeling-clay-like frosting has a thick consistency F but a smooth finish. It’s typically used to create fancier designs, figurines, and flowers. Buttercream – Buttercream is a more common frosting with a creamy and rich flavor. You can texturize the buttercream for a dramatic finish or smooth it out for clean lines.

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Marzipan – This frosting is similar to fondant except that it is made with almond paste. This paste gives it more elasticity and a nutty flavor.

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HANDMADE & GOURMET DECORATED

WeddingCAKES

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today! CALL: 330-645-0303 • EMAIL: bakery@acmestores.com

Visit Our Gallery of Amazing Cakes! www.acmestores.com


CAKES

inspiration LOCAL

Wedding cakes should be just as pretty as they are tasty.

There’s nothing as beautiful as colorful, unique stones, so lo-

cal cake artists used jewels to inspire these original, on-trend designs. See page 110 for their bouquet counterparts. Photos by: OH Snap! Photography

Aquamarine CREATED BY: ACME FRESH MARKET

The raw, un-cut edges of the crystalline indentation contrasts the clean and smooth lines of the fondant tiers. The pastel shade of Aquamarine stones is perfect for a spring, summer, or winter wedding!

Amethyst CREATED BY: BUEHLER’S

This cake combines the popular geode, ombre, and Ultraviolet trends. The white, green, and gold buttercream makes the Amethyst color more striking, creating a design so pretty, you won’t want to cut into it!

Emerald

CREATED BY: TIFFANY’S BAKERY This formal wedding cake proves that when it comes to color, less can sometimes be more. The Emerald crystal sprinkles make the color scheme obvious without compromising the traditional design.

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CAKES

Opal

CREATED BY: BUEHLER’S Every Opal stone is unique! When the light strikes it, you’ll see different reflections of pink, blue, purple, red, and yellow. Similarly, the marble fondant is truly one-of-a-kind and reflects the rainbow of colors you see in the gem.

Onyx

CREATED BY: WEST SIDE BAKERY Though black isn’t common at weddings, the elegance of this cake is undeniable! The crystals, pebbles, and drip technique adds texture while the bottom tier’s bands represent the imperfections found in most Onyx stones.

Morganite CREATED BY: MEL’S SWEET SHOP

Each layer of this cake varies in shape, height, and design, and yet together, it maintains a consistent, modern style that fits perfectly with a blush wedding and pays tribute to the Morganite stone.

Diamond

CREATED BY: ACME FRESH MARKET

In order to personify the favorite wedding stone, diamond, a cake has to be flawless and sparkling. From each crystal on the second tier to the sparkling brooches used in every flower, this cake exudes class and luxury.

3-8 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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TRANSPORTATION

Transportation Cost Range: $400 to $2,000+

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K

Transportation Find out what these symbols mean on page 8.

OH Snap! Photography

Need a ride?

You want a dramatic getaway, but there are a lot more details to consider when booking your transportation! Driving to the Ceremony. Ride to your ceremony with friends or parents so you don’t have to worry about picking your car up from the ceremony site the next morning. Don't forget about the wedding party. If your party rides with you in a bus or limo, you may realize they have no way to get home at the end of the night. Provide a shuttle service to the hotel or hire the party bus long enough to get them back to their cars. Your wedding gifts need a ride home. Since you didn’t drive to

the reception, you won’t have a car to take all your gifts home. Assign a family member or close friend to gather your gifts and drop them off at your house. Don’t leave your guests to fend for themselves. It’s considerate to provide shuttle service for your guests, both to the reception and to the hotel. Your last impression. This is your guests’ last impression of you! Don’t make your grand getaway in your 2001 Honda Civic…make it count by having a unique or fun car!

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROFESSIONALS BVIP Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Moonlite Limo Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com 126

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TODAY'S BRIDE 3-8 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

From limos to classic cars, you can be sure that you'll arrive to your wedding in style. Questions to ask: 1. Are you registered with the Department of Transportation? Yes

No

2. What kind of vehicles do you have?

3. Can we see the actual vehicle we’re renting? Yes

No

4. W hat is your vehicle substitution policy?

5. Who will be the chauffeur?

6. How far in advance should I book?

7. What does your insurance cover?

8. W hat is the minimum number of hours? 9. Is there an overtime fee?

Yes

No

10. What kind of decorating can we do?

11. What is your policy on eating and drinking?

12. What type of music players are in the vehicle?

Notes:


TRANSPORTATION

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TRANSPORTATION

Ask yourself...

When you imagine your grand getaway, do you envision a sleek classic car or a formal stretch limo? Maybe you’ve always dreamt of escaping on the back of a scooter or horse-drawn carriage! Whatever your vision, there are a few questions you need to keep in mind before booking.

Who is riding with you? Ceremony departures and reception departures sometimes happen hours apart, and you may have two different visions of these getaways in mind. Most newlywed couples leave before the reception is officially over, but if your wedding party rode in a party bus with you, they’ll be stuck with no way back to their cars. If you want to celebrate with your wedding party after the ceremony, but share an intimate moment with your new spouse after the reception, you may need to hire two different vehicles.

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CM

MY

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CMY

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How far are you traveling? When choosing a vehicle, consider the distance between your ceremony location and your reception site and the route you’ll take. If they’re more than 10 minutes apart or you have to get on a highway, vehicles like a vintage bike or a horse drawn carriage aren’t practical. Figuring out the details for your wedding transportation and planning an itinerary is key to making sure that everyone is where they need to be, when they need to be there, safely.

You should start looking for transportation companies about 4-6 months before your wedding and reserve your vehicle no later than 3 months ahead of time. Before signing a contract, keep these things in mind: 1. Make sure your transportation company is registered with the Department of Transportation and has all the required insurance. 2. Your contract should specify the details of the vehicle you’ve chosen, including the make, model, and license plate number. 3. Demand for limos goes up around prom season, so consider choosing an alternative vehicle if you’re having a spring wedding. ol eW Kat

FOLCatering Ad

How long should you hire the service for? If you plan to use the same vehicle for your ceremony and reception departures, you’ll need to hire a service for Ross Harvey 4-6 hours. This will ensure you have Today's Bride.pdf 1 9/17/18 10:54 AM

enough time to get from the ceremony to the reception and the hotel after. Note that if you plan to go to a separate photo location you’ll have to add at least another hour and a half to the contract.

Tips to Remember

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, T oday’s Bride


‘I DO’

Medina

A CUPCAKE A DAY 115 W. Liberty St. • Medina (330)389-1247 acupcakeaday.com

COUNTY

CARO’S PARTY CENTER 2777 Pearl Rd. • Medina (330)722-8541 www.carospartycenter.net

MEL’S SWEET SHOP

SOMETHING’S POPPING GOURMET POPCORN EVENT CATERER

THE VINTAGE BARN AT CREEKBEND RANCH

807 Pearl Rd. • Brunswick (330)273-2985 www.melssweetshop.com

47 Public Square • Medina (330)722-3088 www.somethingspopping.net

8154 Garman Rd • Burbank (330)624-7205 www.vintagebarnatcreekbend.com

WILLIAMS ON THE LAKE

THE OAKS LAKESIDE

787 Lafayette Rd. • Medina (330)722-6766 www.williamsonthelake.com

5878 Longacre Lane • Chippewa Lake (330)769-2601 www.theoakslakeside.com

HIGH VOLTAGE INDOOR KARTING

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

333 Foundry St. • Medina (330)333-9000 www.highvoltagekarting.com

32 Public Square • Medina (330)722-5502 | (800)860-2943 www.visitmedinacounty.com

MEDINA COUNTY

DANCING DESSERTS By Appointment Only (330)591-5372 www.dancingdesserts.com

Request a FREE Visitor Guide at

www.visitmedinacounty.com


WHAT’S LEFT

Almost There... You’ve spent the past several months planning the event of your life, and the day is almost here! With three months or less left to finalize every detail, you may be freaking out a little – that’s normal! – or you may be cool, calm, collected, and totally prepared for your wedding. Either way, there are a few last minute details that you’ll need to check off your list before saying "I Do." Check out Venues on page 40 and find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

What’s Left.. Have a bridal shower

Apply for a Marriage License

H ave a bachelor/ bachelorette party

Plan seating arrangements

Mail wedding invitations

Ceremony Reception

Collect RSVPs

Plan rehearsal dinner

B uy gifts

G ive final guest count to Caterer

Bridal Party Groom/Bride Out-of-Town Guests Write your vows inalize wedding day-of F timeline and details with your: Wedding Planner Venues Officiant Decide on

Break-in wedding shoes Have a final dress fitting H ave your final hair and makeup trial D elegate wedding day duties S end directions to wedding day Transportation Driver P amper yourself

Something Old

Massage

Something New

Facial

Something Borrowed

Mani/Pedi

Something Blue

Waxing P ack for honeymoon

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Bridal Shower Who Should Host Typically, the bridesmaids and Maidof-Honor plan and host the bridal shower, but duties can be taken over by other friends or family members, too. Location It is common to hold the bridal shower at a restaurant, winery, park, the host's house, or a banquet hall. If you plan on hosting the bridal shower somewhere other than your house, make the reservations as soon as possible. The last thing you want is to pick the perfect venue and find out it’s booked. Timeline Bridal showers are typically held about three months prior to the wedding. However, confer with the bride so she can make sure there are no scheduling conflicts. Guest list You never want to send an invite to the bridal shower if that person won’t

* Passonthisto yourguide

BRIDAL SHOWERS

Your

Maid-of-Honor or bridesmaids!

be invited to the wedding. Be sure to double check your final list against the bride’s wedding guest list before sending the invitations. Menu Consider the time of day the shower will be held and your budget. If you are on a tight budget and the party is mid-afternoon, you may want to serve appetizers only. If you’re throwing an early evening bash, you could simply serve a spread of desserts. Be careful of hosting the party around meal times – like lunch or dinner – as guests may expect there to be a full meal rather than snacks. Games Shower games can really liven up the party and can be a great way for guests to find out more about the couple. Remember, not all games have to have a winner or encourage competition. The more fun you have planning it, the more fun the games will be!

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BACHELORETTE PARTY

Share this with your bridesmaids!

BACHELORETTE

Keep the Bride’s Interests in Mind

BRIDAL REGISTRY SHOPPING FOR GIFTS

At this point, your wedding registry should be available and updated for bridal shower guests to access. We recommend going to at least three different stores to register, but no more than six. Shopping for your home can be an exciting experience to share with your fiancé, but it should be catered to what you need. If you already have new pots and pans and microfiber towels but want a Bluetooth speaker or Wine of the Month subscription, then register for the items you need and want, not what’s expected of you. Some stores may require a store asso-

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ciate to accompany you to offer ideas and suggestions. Take advantage of their knowledge by asking about quality brands and warranties. It’s considerate to include items of different price ranges on your registry so guests can choose a gift within their budget. If you and your fiancé already live together and have the necessities to build your dream home, you may want to consider having a honeymoon registry. This is a great option where guests can gift you with room enhancements, excursions, or spending money!

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Bar crawls, jet setting to Vegas, a weekend glamping trip, or a spa getaway – bachelorette party possibilities are endless! The Maid-of-Honor and bridal party should ask themselves one important question when planning the festivities: What would the bride really want?

Get the Guest List from the Bride The bride doesn’t have many responsibilities when it comes to planning the bachelorette party. Just be sure to get a guest list from her of people she’ll feel comfortable “letting loose” with. Sorority sisters? Yes! Her boss? Probably not. If there are concerns about inviting someone, it’s best to leave them off the list and enjoy their presence on the wedding day. If someone is invited to celebrate the bachelorette party, make sure they are invited to the wedding, too!

Timing is Everything The bachelorette party should be on an evening close to the big day, but it definitely should not fall on the night before the wedding. Consider scheduling it for the weekend before the wedding date.

Take Budget into Account Just like it’s important to take the bride’s wishes into account, the host(s) should also consider the budget of the girls who are attending. If you’ll be staying overnight somewhere, going to dinner, and/or renting transportation, be sure to include the price when extending an invitation.

The Element of Surprise Given all the planning the couple has put into their wedding, it’s safe to say it’d be a welcomed surprise to not have to make decisions for another event! Ask the bride to trust you to know her expectations and then take the reins!


BACHELORETTE PARTY

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Vows

VOWS

writing your

1. Write down a list of words that immediately come to mind when you think about your partner. Use those words as inspiration when you get stuck. 2. D on’t take it too seriously or stress out about making it perfect. They should reflect your relationship! Working too hard to find the perfect adjective or making your words sound poetic will come across as insincere, so just speak from your heart! 3. I f you get stuck, walk away from it to clear your head. 4. P ractice makes perfect! Read your vows out loud at least 3 times to make sure it sounds smooth but not rehearsed and that you’re not talking too fast. ©2017 DAVID’S BRIDAL

VOW TEMPLATE , from the day I met you I knew YOUR PARTNER’S NAME

. FUN FACT ABOUT YOUR FIANCÉ

The more I got to know you and your

ways, the more ADJECTIVE

I realized

. DIFFERENT FUN FACT ABOUT YOUR FIANCÉ

You are the most

,

and

ADJECTIVE

ADJECTIVE

ADJECTIVE

person I have ever met. You bring out all my best qualities, and that is why I couldn’t imagine my life without you. I promise to always be

, ADJECTIVE

, and

.

ADJECTIVE

ADJECTIVE

I promise to stand by your side and support PARTNER'S INTEREST

and even

the adventure begins

. I promise to love you unconditionally

PARTNER'S GOOFY INTEREST

and without hesitation, even when you

. FUNNY THING YOUR PARTNER DOES

But above all, I promise to choose you every day of our lives. I can't wait to build a family and a

Make it a day to remember. Visit davidsbridal.com or call 877.923.2743 for an appointment.

home where ADJECTIVE

our child(ren) will learn what

and ADJECTIVE

really look like. You make me feel EMOTION

wait to feel that way for the rest of my life. 134

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1703051_Todays_Bride_Magazine_Ad_Print_Signage.indd 1

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ADJECTIVE

, and I can’t


VOWS

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GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

Taking care of your guests WITH GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS If you’re expecting out-of-town guests to attend your wedding, you’ll need to book a block of hotel rooms for their overnight stays. Reserving a block of rooms doesn’t mean that you’ll have a specific area for your guests to stay; it simply means that you have reserved a set number of rooms at agreed upon rates for your guests to book. You’ll want to look for hotels that offer Open/Courtesy Blocks. This means that you won’t have to pay upfront and won’t be charged for any unused rooms. Start out by booking a smaller number and adding more as you go. A typical rule of thumb is to count how many out-of-

town guests you have and divide it in half. If that seems like a small number, consider that some guests may make other arrangements or decide to drive home. Ask your hotel about any amenities they have – like complimentary brunch, shuttle service, or welcome bag deliveries. It’s considerate to leave a goodie bag in each guest room. They can be filled with local sweets, toiletries, or wedding weekend necessities! Most importantly, double check that everything you’ve agreed upon is on your contract and ask about their cancellation policy before signing.

Start your search for the perfect Guest Accommodations on page 40.

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Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Extend your out-of-town guests' visit by reserving nearby Guest Accommodations. Questions you should ask: 1. How early should I block hotel rooms?

2. What is the minimum number of rooms that I can block?

3. How much do the rooms cost?

4. What does the rate include?

5. When do you release the rooms?

6. Do we have to pay for unused rooms?

Yes

7. C an we put gift bags in our guests’ rooms? 8. D o you have a honeymoon suite?

Yes

No Yes

No

9. Do you provide a shuttle? Ceremony Site

Reception Site

10. What amenities do you offer?

Airport

No


GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

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REHEARSAL DINNER

Rehearsal THE

When does the ceremony rehearsal and dinner take place? The ceremony rehearsal traditionally takes place the day before the wedding. You can host the meal prior to or after the ceremony rehearsal, or you can hold both on an entirely different day. Who should we invite? Everyone involved in the ceremony should attend the rehearsal including: bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, flower girl & ring bearer, Officiant, readers, and musicians. It’s considerate to invite the spouse or significant other of each attendant, also.

Regarding the dinner, the guest list can be as simple as including your immediate family, the wedding party, and their significant others, though it’s becoming more popular to make it a larger event for out-of-town guests. If you prefer an intimate gathering but don’t want to exclude other guests, consider hosting the rehearsal dinner two nights before the wedding day and having a welcome party for out-of-town guests the night before the wedding.

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Where should we hold the dinner? The rehearsal dinner should be held near or at the ceremony site. It’s considerate and fun to vary the dinner options from the wedding meal — such as offering steak or seafood if you’re having an Italian menu at your reception — so guests can have different experiences! Where you decide to have the rehearsal dinner depends on the budget of whoever is throwing it (traditionally the groom's parents), who is in attendance, and what kind of party the host envisions. Most commonly, rehearsal dinners are held at local restaurants, though you can use a banquet hall or your reception venue, too. What takes place at the rehearsal dinner? Traditionally, the Best Man offers a toast to the soonto-be spouses. The groom then follows with a toast to his bride and her parents. You should make sure that

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

all guests are introduced to one another, either by formal introductions or through mingling. A special touch would be to introduce your wedding party and say something personal about each one, like how you met or why you asked them to be in your wedding. Keep in mind, though, that this party is meant to be thrown to honor you and your fiancé. If you’d rather have a more relaxed and casual atmosphere with no formal speeches, that’s not required! The rehearsal dinner is a great time to relax with your family and friends without worrying too much about tradition.


REHEARSAL DINNER

Q U E S T I O N S TO A S K Erase any wedding day nerves by planning a ceremony and dinner rehearsal. Ask your Ceremony Venue: 1. What time will the rehearsal begin? 2. How long will the rehearsal take? 3. Who should come to the rehearsal?

Ask you Rehearsal Dinner Venue: 1. How many can you seat? 2. Do you have a special menu for rehearsal dinners? Yes

No

3. How many servers will you provide?

4. Can you accommodate special dietary needs? 5. Is there a bar?

Full

Limited

Yes

No

No

6. How many hours do we have?

Notes:

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LMAC Photography

MARRIAGE LICENSE

ASHTABULA COUNTY • 440-576-3453 25 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson • Hours: 8am-4pm M-F • Fee: $45 cash, money order

LORAIN COUNTY • 440-329-5175 225 Court St., Room 611, 6th Floor, Elyria Hours: 8am-3:15pm M-F • Fee: $57 cash only

COLUMBIANA COUNTY • 330-424-9516 105 S. Market St., Lisbon Hours: 8am-3pm M-F Fee: $55 cash only

MAHONING COUNTY • 330-740-2314 120 Market St., Youngstown Hours: 8am-4pm M-F • Fee: $43 cash only MEDINA COUNTY • 330-725-9703 93 Public Square, Medina Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $62 cash only

CUYAHOGA COUNTY • 216-443-8922 1 Lakeside Ave., Room 146, Cleveland Hours: 8:30am-4pm M-F Fee: $60 cash, credit w/$2.95 fee, money order

PORTAGE COUNTY • 330-297-3871 203 W. Main St., Ravenna Hours: 8am-3:30pm M-F • Fee: $57 cash, money order

ERIE COUNTY • 419-627-7750 323 Columbus Ave., Sandusky Hours: 8am-4pm M-F • Fee: $43 cash only

Marriage License Basics You should apply for your marriage license in the county you live in, not the county in which you’ll be getting married. Because some counties have a waiting period or slow turn-around, you should apply a few weeks early. Not too early, though; if a license is not used within 60 days, it will expire. Once both of you have signed your license, your Officiant will sign as a witness and send it to the Marriage License Bureau to be authorized. You should request at least three certified copies (raised seal) to change your name.

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To apply for your license, you and your fiancé will need: Birth Certificate Photo ID

STARK COUNTY • 330-451-7759 110 Central Plaza South, Suite 502, Canton Hours: 8:30am-4:15pm M-F • Fee: $42 cash only

GEAUGA COUNTY • 440-279-1830 231 Main St., Suite 200, Chardon Hours: 8am-4:15pm M-F Fee: $73 cash, cashier's check money order HURON COUNTY • 419-668-4383 2 E. Main St., Room 106, Norwalk Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $57 cash only LAKE COUNTY • 440-350-2168 25 North Park Pl., W., Painesville Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $62 cash only

SUMMIT COUNTY • 330-643-2346 209 S. High St., Akron • Hours: 8am-4pm M-F Fee: $50 cash, credit w/ 3% fee, check TRUMBULL COUNTY • 330-675-2521 161 High St. NW, Warren Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $44 cash only WAYNE COUNTY • 330-287-5577 107 W. Liberty St., Wooster • Hours: 8am-4pm M-F Fee: $72 cash, credit, check, money order

NOTE: Information is subject to change; please call to verify.

PLACES YOU’LL NEED TO CHANGE YOUR NAME:

Proof of Citizenship/Residency

Social Security Card

Doctors

D eath Certificate if widowed

Driver's License

Insurance

Bank Accounts

Social Media

D ivorce Decree if divorced P ayment for fees – accepted form of payments vary from county to county

TODAY'S BRIDE 0-3 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"

Mail Subscriptions Voter Registration Employer Records Utilities

Passport* *Passports take about 4-8 weeks to process and the names on your plane ticket and passport must match. Learn more about passports on page 85.

sure to * Make request a few

certified copies of your marriage license.


WINE WEDDINGS

Debonne Vineyards

Winery at Wolf Creek

NORTHEAST OHIO’S WINERY VENUES

www.debonne.com

www.wineryatwolfcreek.com

440-466-3485

330-666-9285

Troutman Vineyards

The Wine Mill

ThornCreek Winery & Gardens

www.troutmanvineyards.com

www.thewinemill.com

www.thorncreekwinery.com

330-263-4345

234-571-2594

330-562-9245

Newman Creek Cellars

750ml

Cellar 59

www.newmancreekcellars.com

www.750mlwines.com

www.cellar59wine.com

330-904-3546

330-794-5754

330-688-2684

Gervasi Vineyard

Michael Angelo’s Winery

www.gervasivineyard.com

www.michaelangelosbakery.com

330-497-1000

440-552-2815

Visit these fine wineries for your Wedding, Rehearsal Dinners, bridal shower, engagement and bachelorette parties!


SUPERSTITIONS

Superstitions

Have you ever wondered where some of those crazy wedding superstitions come from? Like, why is rain on your wedding day good luck and can your fiancé really not see you in your dress beforehand? We’ve scoured historical records (or…you know…Google) to find out where wedding superstitions originated and why. Why can’t a groom see his bride in her wedding dress? The origins of this superstition are actually as un-romantic as you can get. When arranged marriages were the norm, the father-of-the-bride would forbid the couple from seeing each other before the wedding day because he was afraid the groom would break off the arrangement if the bride wasn’t attractive enough. Similarly, brides would wear veils down the aisle and throughout the ceremony until the first kiss in order to blur her features and make her appear more ethereal and angelic. LMAC Photography

Why do we wear rings on the “ring finger”? The reason brides and grooms wear their engagement ring and wedding band on the fourth finger is because it was believed to be the only finger that has a vein that connects directly to the heart. But why the left hand instead of the right? Years and years ago, it was believed that a diamond paired with gold worn on the left hand would drive away the devil and any evil spirits; therefore, brides traditionally wore a gold and diamond engagement ring on the fourth finger of their left hand. Black Dog Photo Co.

Is rain on your wedding day really good luck? Yes! Tradition says that rain on your wedding day symbolizes fertility and unity. Because rain brings life to plants, it is said that rain on your wedding day means that you’ll have many children. It’s also said that rain on your wedding day can strengthen your marriage and devotion to your husband or wife because getting married is often considered “tying the knot,” and a wet knot is always harder to untie. OH Snap! Photography

Many wedding superstitions aren’t something that brides and grooms seem to invest a lot of belief into, but they have become a part of wedding tradition that newlyweds like to honor. While they by no means affect the way your marriage will turn out, sometimes indulging in these time-cherished traditions can add a sentimental aspect to your planning. Read more about Superstitions at TodaysBride.com 142

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SUPERSTITIONS

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DAY-OF DETAILS

Planning makes perfect! Skip the stress and chaos on your wedding day by using our Day-Of Details sheet to keep you organized and on task.

DAY-OF DETAILS

TIMELINE

WEDDING DAY PREP Hair Time:

Length of time:

Manicure Time:

Length of time:

Makeup Time:

Length of time:

Getting Dressed Time:

Length of time:

Other Time:

Length of time:

ARRIVAL TIMES Bride & Bridesmaids: Groom & Groomsmen: Parents: Planner:

Bride's Checklist FACE/MAKEUP Makeup Face Wash & Moisturizer Makeup Remover Brushes Perfume Mirror Tissues Tweezers Cotton Balls & Swabs Lip Balm & Lipstick HAIR Hair Spray & Gel Brush/Comb Hair Dryer Straightener/Curling Iron Hair Pins Bridal Accessories TEETH Toothbrush & Toothpaste Dental Floss Breath Mints/Gum

HANDS Hand Lotion Nail Polish (to match yours) Nail Polish - clear Nail Polish Remover Small Scissors/Clippers Nail File

FIRST AID Bandages Antibiotic Ointment Tums Aspirin Allergy Medicine Eye Drops

SHOES Weddings Shoes Comfy Shoes

OTHER Cash/Credit Cards License Phone & Charger Clear Deodorant Razor Shaving Cream Sunscreen Insect Repellent Umbrella

CLOTHING Bridal Gown Undergarments 2 Garters (keep 1 & toss 1) Change of Clothing Stockings Bath Robe Stain Remover Body Tape Sewing Needle & Thread Safety Pins Lint Remover Static Guard Iron Rain Coat

IMPORTANT Something to eat/drink Phone Numbers (see below)

Groom's Ring Present for the Groom A more detailed list is available on TodaysBride.com/printables

Photographer: Videographer: Officiant: Ceremony Musicians: Reception access: Caterer: Bartenders: Cake: Rentals: Photo Booth: Florist: DJ/Band/Musicians: Guests: Other: Other:

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Join Today’s Bride and get organized with our Wedding Planner!

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DAY-OF DETAILS

THE LITTLE RED BARN NORTHEAST OHIO’S NEWEST VENUE

OPENING IN 2019 The Little Red Barn is a year-round venue perfect for weddings, showers, and private events. Accommodating up to 300 guests, The Little Red Barn offers a Bridal Room, Catering Prep Area, DJ Booth, Bar Area and a private porch area to watch the sunset by the pond.

THE LITTLE

RED BARN

17520 Huprick Rd. N. Lawrence, OH 44666

330-749-9855

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MASTER VENDOR LIST

As you make your final decisions and book each vendor, it can be helpful to record their contact information in one place. This way you know exactly who to ask for and what extension to use when you have a last-minute question or change.

MASTER VENDOR LIST Contact Name

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Phone Number

Email

Bridal Attire

Cake & Desserts

Caterer

Ceremony Musician

Ceremony Site

Decor/Rental Company

DJ, Band, & Musicians

Florist

Guest Accommodations

Health & Beauty

Linen Rentals

Lighting

Men's Attire

Officiant

Photo Booth

Photographer

Reception Venue

Rehearsal Dinner Venue

Transportation

Travel Agent

Videographer

Wedding Planner

Wedding Stationery

Other

TODAY'S BRIDE 0-3 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO"



Ken Love Photography Ohio is for lovers! Wedding experts in Northeast Ohio can offer you the best service, attention, and quality — all right here in your backyard!

www.KenLovePhotography.com 330-329-8575 We offer original photojournalistic wedding photography. Contact Ken Love to capture the extraordinary moments of your life forever.

Corkscrew Johnny’s

www.corkscrewjohnnys.com 330-659-4447 Let us handle the planning, logistics, and delivery for your special event. Services include Weddings, Wine/Beer Delivery, Wine Tastings, and More!

Moonlite Limo Service

Exploration Gateway

the Garden by the Gate

A reputable, five-star company that has been awarded “Best in the City” the past seven years, Moonlite Limo Service rents 6, 8, and 10 passenger stretch limousines at reasonable rates.

A natural setting for ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, and receptions, your guests will enjoy scenic views at Exploration Gateway in Sippo Park.

Your dream wedding comes to life in flowers from the Garden by the Gate. We listen to your ideas and create floral decor that expresses your vision for your special day.

Unity Chapel of Light

Silver & Strings Trio

www.silverandstringstrio.com 330-244-9210

Walsh University

www.unitychapeloflight.org/go/weddings 330-928-2108 Yes, we will marry you! All welcome. Personalized ceremonies. Private bride’s room, beautiful sanctuary seats 220. Gazebo. Handicap accessible building.

Providing indoor or outdoor ceremony and reception music since 1985. Classical, Popular, or Jazz Standards with piano and amplification provided. Music samples at www.silverandstringstrio.com.

On-site catering, all-inclusive, affordable pricing… with two beautiful settings inside or out, Walsh University has everything you need for your special day.

www.MoonLiteLimoService.com 330-990-0634

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www.starkpartyhall.com 330-409-8096

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

www.gardenbythegate.com 330-904-5338

www.walsh.edu/wedding-venue 330-490-7117


Creative Transformations Styling & Events M. C. Robinson & Associates, Inc. www.ctstyling.com 330-618-0421

www.mcrinsurance.com 330-854-9300

Reliable Onsite – Restroom Trailers

Creative Transformations Styling & Events is a full-service event and wedding planning business, offering Engagement Planning, Full-Service Wedding Planning, Destination Wedding Planning and more.

We have you covered for your special day and beyond. Protect the day – and life – you’ve always dreamed of.

We offer the most modern and beautifully appointed luxury restroom trailers for your outdoor wedding reception.

Tozzi’s on 12th

Unbox the Dress

www.Tozzison12th.com 330-477-7515

www.unboxthedress.com 330-203-1256

A 4th generation family-run restaurant where elegance, affordability and excellence is our standard. Seating up to 300 guests plus amenities that will make your reception or rehearsal dinner most enjoyable!

Include your Mom’s wedding dress on your special day! Redesign her wedding dress into your “I Do Getting Ready Robe”, Veil, Bouquet Wrap and more! It’s the perfect “something borrowed”.

BVIP Limousine Service

Russell Sound Lab Wedding DJs

BVIP Limousine can accommodate any size party and is backed by years of experience! We service over 350 weddings per year. We have sedans, limousines, SUVs, party buses, and shuttle buses.

We are a one stop shop for wedding reception DJs, Photo Booths, and Uplighting! We offer reception planning with attention to detail and great communication.

www.bviplimo.com 330-725-3108

www.superiorportables.com/weddings-parties 330-733-9000

www.RussellSoundLab.com 330-494-9317

CHECK TODAYSBRIDE.COM FOR ADDITIONAL DATES & DISCOUNTED TICKETS

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VENDOR INDEX Beauty & Health A White Pond Paradise Salon & Day Spa . . . . . . 60 Carol Martin Salon Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Trillium Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Bridal Attire Alterations Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 American Commodore Dress Shoppe . . . . . . . . . 27 David’s Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Doreen Leaf Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Henri's Cloud Nine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Lavender Bridal Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Nordstrom Wedding Suite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Dress Bridal Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 The Winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Unbox the Dress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Vera’s Ladies Apparel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Cakes & Favors

Sabrina Hall Photography

A Cupcake a Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

ACME Fresh Market Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Buehler's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Candyapple & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Dancing Desserts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 D Marie Design Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Mel’s Sweet Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129, 132 Reeves Cake Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Something’s Popping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Tiffany’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 West Side Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Catering & Bar Service

Flowers

A Taste of Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

ACME Fresh Market Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

ACME Fresh Market Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Buehler's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Buehler's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Kelli’s Blossom Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Corkscrew Johnny’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Nikki’s Perfect Petal Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Old Carolina Barbecue Company . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

The Bouquet Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Robert J. Events & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 47

the Garden by the Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Rosie Camper Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Timeless Moments Flower Preservation . . . . . . . 131

Village Catering Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Decor & Rentals

Honeymoon, Travel, & Lodging

All Events Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

AAA Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Canton Chair Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Donna's Premier Lodging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Event Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116, 117

J Sullivan Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

L’Nique Specialty Linen Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Sebring Mansion Inn & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Miller's Party Rental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

UnlimitedTrips.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Reliable Onsite – Restroom Trailers . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Sitting Pretty Linens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Sully’s All Occasions Party Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Entertainment Cipriano Productions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Dusk Till Dawn DJs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Russell Sound Lab Wedding DJs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Silver & Strings Trio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Super Sound DJ & Photo Booth Rental . . . . . . . . 85 LMAC Photography

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Today’s Wedding Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

Black Dog Photo Co.


Home & Finance M. C. Robinson & Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Ice Sculptures Elegant Ice Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Men’s Attire American Commodore Tuxedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Boumadi's Clothier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Men's Wearhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Photography Black Dog Photo Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ken Love Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 LMAC Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 OH Snap! Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Sabrina Hall Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ken Love Photography

Transportation BVIP Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Venues - Ceremony, Reception, Rehearsals, Showers & Bachelorette Party

Moonlite Limo Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

750ml . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127, 141

Nuevo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

AA Executive Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Occasions Party Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Akron Art Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Roses Run Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Creative Transformations Styling & Events . . . 149

Blu Jazz+/Blu Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Sheraton Suites Akron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Elegant Events by Maria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Caro’s Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Shisler Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Sirpilla Soirees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Cellar 59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Silver Lake Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Wedding Stationery

College Of Wooster Dining & Conference . . . . . 104

SpringLake Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Columbia Woodlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

St. George Fellowship Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Debonne Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

DoubleTree Hotel Akron/Fairlawn . . . . Inside Back Cover

The Amish Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

DoubleTree by Hilton Youngstown . . . . . . . . . . . 143

The Historic Onesto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Embassy Suites Akron-Canton Airport . . . . . . . . 137

The Little Red Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Exploration Gateway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

The New Center at NEOMED University . . . . . . 122

Firestone Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

The Oaks Lakeside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7, 129

Galaxy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

The Stables at Arrowhead Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Gervasi Vineyard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75, 141

The Vintage Barn at Creekbend . . . . . . . . . . 115, 129

Glenmoor Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

The Wine Mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Greystone Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

ThornCreek Winery & Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

High Voltage Indoor Karting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129, 132

Todaro’s Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Hilton Akron/Fairlawn Hotel & Suites . Inside Front Cover

Tozzi’s on 12th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Holiday Inn Canton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Trailhead at Cascade Lofts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Kent State Hotel and Conference Center . . . . . . 37

Troutman Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

La Pizzaria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Tudor House on the Portage Lakes Waterfront . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Wedding Planners

Brittney Nichole Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Invitations By Kate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Pink Tomato Creative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Lake Anna Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Landoll’s Mohican Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 McKinley Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau 129 Metropolitan Event Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 Michael Angelo’s Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 OH Snap! Phtography

Musica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Newman Creek Cellars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Uncorked Wine Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Unity Chapel of Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Walsh University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Waters Edge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Williams on the Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 Willow Haven Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Winery at Wolf Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

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DoubleTree by Hilton Akron-Fairlawn

Marriage

A Perfect

ALL FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE FOR YOUR RECEPTION PROVIDED BY CAFÉ BRICCO. 3 1 5 0 W . M A R K E T S T R E E T, A K R O N , O H 4 4 3 3 3

P: 330.869.9000

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PLEASE VISIT US AT WWW.DOUBLETREEAKRON.COM & WWW.CAFEBRICCO.COM


Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls

Where the Perfect Wedding…

Falls

Magically into Place

Our inclusive wedding packages are personalized to meet every bride and groom’s wedding dreams...from traditional ceremonies and receptions to extraordinary celebrations. With the picturesque Cuyahoga River as your backdrop, let us help create a magical wedding day.

Contact Cathy Dixon, Wedding Specialist 330-920-7505 | cdixon@sheratonakron.com Visit us at www.sheratonakronweddings.com 1989 Front Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221


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