Today's Bride 2018-2019 Cleveland

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Local Real Weddings

WINTER WEDDINGS ClePhoto

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C L E V E L A N D 2 0 18 - 2019 C

letter from the

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editor

You told us what you want, and we listened. You need a wedding resource filled with the necessities to plan your wedding. That’s what you’ll find in this planner – the latest trends, monthly checklists, local vendors, planning tips, and so much more! We even color-coded each section to match the stages of your planning process:

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

Local Real Weddings

WINTER WEDDINGS

ClePhoto

OPS Front Cover & Tab le of Contents Photos by: Allure Bridal

Our hope is that this planner will make your wedding journey easy and enjoyable. The local vendors you find in these pages are talented experts who have the experience and knowledge you’re looking for. They are some of the best in the industry, and are committed to making your vision a reality. They’re waiting for your call to start creating your dream wedding! Feel free to let us know if you have any questions or if anything is missing from the planner. We’d love to hear from you.

Jim Frericks, Editor editorial@todaysbride.com

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contents

Bachelorette Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Men’s Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Mother-Of Dresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Bridal Gowns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Photo Booth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Bridal Showers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Bridesmaid Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Real Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Rehearsals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Catering & Bar Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Superstitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Cleveland Photo Ops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Vendor Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Venues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Venue Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Favors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Videography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Vows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Guest Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Wedding Planners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Honeymoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Wedding Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Local Loves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Wedding Stationery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Marriage License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Winter Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

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TODAY'S BRIDE

1930 N. Cleveland-Massillon Road Akron, Ohio 44333 330-670-9545 • 216-393-5677 FAX: 330-670-9546 admin@TodaysBride.com www.TodaysBride.com

Chief Marketing Officer: James J. Frericks Chief Operating Officer: Denise L. Frericks Vice President: Jennifer Judy Fyffe Director of Sales & Bridal Marketing: Rachel Yagl Bridal Marketing Account Managers: Whitney Miller Joan Maley

All the best,

table of

Publisher: Jadlyn Incorporated

Office Manager: Colleen Ahern Creative Director: Kate Wolfram Social Media Stylist: Jordan Thi Content & Marketing Stylist: Taylor Jarvis Design Intern: Alicia Sloan Content Interns: Linda Stocum Jordyn Austin 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 (June) 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.

We’re beyond thrilled that you’ve found someone you want to spend the rest of your life with. Now let’s start planning your special day!

! e e e e h w You're engaged, now what?

Celebrate! An engagement party should be thrown no more than a month after the proposal, but if you’re getting married in less than a year, you can forgo the engagement party and just announce the good news via social media or save-the-dates.

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 the specific date you choose.

Create a wedding email. Over the next few months to a year, you’ll

Get a free email at Gmail or Yahoo!

be meeting a lot of people while collecting tons of information. It’s super convenient to have everything stored in one inbox; easy to organize and find.

Ask your wedding party. Choosing who will stand beside you when you say "I Do" can be one of the hardest decisions in the wedding planning process! Our advice: don’t ask someone to be in the party just because you feel obligated to.

Attend a Today’s Bride Show! Wedding shows are one of the greatest ways to get wedding inspiration and meet with local vendors.

You can attend a fashion show, buy your dream dress, see new trends in-person, and book wedding services all under one roof!

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TODAY'S BRIDE

Average Wedding Cost:

$27,441

Now that you’ve gotten past the initial sticker shock, let’s talk budget.

Weddings aren’t cheap, and you don’t want to start a marriage in debt.

When you’re coming up with an overall budget, it can help to break each category down into individual budgets. 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!

Visit TodaysBride.com to start planning!

A lot of planning goes into throwing a memorable wedding.

Make sure you don’t forget a thing by checking off our Master Checklist as your planning progresses!

MASTER CHECKLIST 12+ MONTHS Discuss your budget and who is contributing to it Budget, p.12

8-12 MONTHS Hire a Caterer

Shop for men's attire

Check the Wedding Show schedule at TodaysBride.com

Establish fitness and skin care routines

Make a wedding email, binder, and/or spreadsheet

You a need place to compile all of your thoughts, vendor handouts, contracts, and details.

Choose your wedding party Bridesmaid Attire, p. 28

Begin compiling a guest list

Purchase wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses

Cakes, p. 120

Mother-Of Gowns. p. 26

Finalize playlists with DJ/ Band/Musicians Entertainment, p. 74

Find and book Hair and Makeup Stylist(s) Beauty, p. 58

Have final fittings for your wedding party and parents

Honeymoon, p. 86

| TODAY'S BRIDE

Choose a Bakery and order your cake

Remind mothers to order mother-of attire

Hire a Travel Agent

6

Choose bridal & bridesmaid accessories

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. 86

Create a wedding website

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

Purchase or rent: toasting flutes, serving utensils, guest book, flower basket, and ring bearer pillow Decor, p. 114

Book your honeymoon

It takes time to order and get alterations.

Bridal Attire, p. 16 Bridesmaid Attire, p. 28

We DPrintables!

Reserve decor rentals

Catering, p. 46

Finalize guest list

Book your Ceremony and Reception Venues

Transportation, p. 126

Have a tasting with a Caterer and finalize the menu

Wedding Stationery, p. 80

Bridal Attire, p. 16 Mother-Of Gowns, p. 26 Bridesmaid Attire, p. 28

Ceremony, p. 36

Hire a Transportation Company

Book your Entertainment including: DJ, Band, Ceremony Musicians, and Photo Booth Company

The final list should be a compromise between your list, your fiancé’s list, and your parents’ lists.

Wedding Stationery, p. 80

Book the Officiant

Purchase wedding bands

This is a great way to get to know your potential Photographer, and may be included in your package!

Videography, p. 64 Photography, p. 68

Shop for your invitations and order and send savethe-dates

Ceremony, p. 36 Venues, p. 40

Men’s Attire, p. 52

Hire a Photographer and Videographer and have an engagement shoot

Choose your wedding date

Start shopping for bridal, bridesmaid, and mother-of attire

Buy or rent men's attire

Beauty, p. 58

Entertainment, p. 74 Photo Booth, p. 78

Wedding Planners, p. 14

Flowers, p. 110

Men's Attire, p. 52

Create an A and B list.

Wedding Stationery, p. 80

Hire a Wedding Planner

Hire a Florist

Catering, p. 46 Bar Service, p. 50

Create a Pinterest account and start a wedding board

A wedding show offers you the opportunity to meet with local wedding professionals while admiring all the latest bridal trends Wedding Show, p. 104.

3-8 MONTHS

}

0-3 MONTHS Set up/update your gift registry Gift Registry, p. 134

Have a bridal shower Bridal Shower, p. 132

Reserve Guest Accommodations

Guest Accommodations, p. 138

Purchase postage, send wedding invitations, and record RSVPs

Wedding Stationery, p. 80

Purchase gifts for bridal party, groom, and out-oftown guests Apply for your Marriage License

Marriage License, p. 142

Write your vows and review ceremony details with Officiant Vows, p. 136

Finalize wedding day-of timeline and details with your Wedding Planner and Venues Day-of Details, p. 146

Plan ceremony and reception seating arrangements Book your rehearsal dinner space and send invitations Rehearsal Dinner, p. 140

2 WEEKS - THE BIG DAY Review wedding day details with a Wedding Planner Day-of Details, p. 146

Follow up with guests who have not RSVPd Give a final guest count to Caterer Catering, p. 46

Break-in wedding shoes

Order invitations

Have a final dress fitting

Shop for favors

Delegate wedding day duties i.e. guest book and

Wedding Stationery, p. 80 Wedding Favors, p. 130

ushering

Send directions to wedding day Transportation Driver Transportation, p. 126

Get Married!

Day-of Details, p. 146

TODAY’S BRIDE

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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

Catering

Ceremony Musician

Ceremony Site

Decor/Rental Company

DJ, Band, & Musicians

Flowers

Guest Accommodations

Health & Beauty

Linen Rentals

Lighting

Men's Attire

Officiant

Photo Booth

Photographer

Reception Venue

Rehearsal Dinner

Transportation

Travel Agent

Videographer

Wedding Planner

Wedding Stationery

Other

TODAY'S BRIDE

• A unique and memorable venue • Professional event planning services • Modern, upscale catering • Beautiful locations throughout the Zoo for wedding photos • On-site transportation • Upgrade to include animal encounters • Patio overlooking Waterfowl Lake

Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/weddings or call 216-635-3304.

©Registered trademark of Cleveland Metroparks.

TODAY’S BRIDE

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WHAT YOU

NEED TO KNOW

?

ALL VENDORS

Questions It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of picking vendors, brainstorming decor details, and still finding time to enjoy being engaged. That’s why we’re here! We’ve listed all the best questions to ask your vendors to make the planning process as easy as possible! 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

No

2. Will you be working my wedding?

Yes

What, When, & Who? There are so many parties to plan before your wedding day!

This pre-wedding party outline is based on tradition, but keep in mind that you can cater any detail to your liking.

No, a staff member will

3. Do you have insurance options?

Yes

No

Engagement Party

Bridal Shower

Bachelorette Party

Rehearsal Dinner

Who throws it?

Parents of the bride

Maid-of-Honor & bridesmaids

Maid-of-Honor

Parents of the groom

Who’s invited?

It can be as intimate or elaborate as you want! Invite just your closest friends and family, or use this party as a way to establish the basis of your wedding guest list!

If you’re having a female only party, invite the women from both sides of the family (bride and groom’s) and friends. Don’t invite anyone who won’t get an invite to the wedding!

The bride’s sorority sister?

Yes! Her boss?

Probably not. Get a list of people the bride is comfortable letting loose with!

The bridal party and their significant others, anyone in the ceremony (flower girl, ring bearer, Officiant), and immediate family. Out-oftown guests may be included.

When should it happen?

As soon as you get engaged. This serves as your announcement!

3 months before the wedding.

Typically the weekend before the wedding, but no more than a month away.

The weekend of the wedding, usually the night before.

6-8 weeks before the bridal shower date.

The Maid-ofHonor can send invites, email, or call one month before the date of the party.

These are typically sent 2-3 weeks before the dinner.

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. I s gratuity included?

Yes

Yes 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

No

Other things to discuss: Dress Code Cancellation/Refund Policy quipment, who will be providing it, E and if there are any additional fees Payment Plans and Due Dates Arrival and Departure Times Emergency plans

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

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TODAY'S BRIDE

When should invites be sent?

This is typically a very casual get together, so it’s acceptable to call or text invites.

HOW TO

FIND VENDORS 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!

Cut through the clutter.

Find local vendors at TodaysBride.com 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:

Wedding Shows are one-stop wedding shopping events. You can hire all of your vendors, see a fashion show, check out the latest designs in cakes, flowers, and reception tables, and take advantage of exclusive show discounts… what could be better?! Wedding shows are perfect for the just-engaged bride or someone who’s a week away!

How lucky! We host 5 shows a year throughout the Northeast Ohio area!

Check out page 104 for dates.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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BUDGET

We all wish we had unlimited funds to create our dream wedding, but sadly that isn't always possible. This budget planner will help you decide how much you’re willing to spend on what’s most important.

YOUR BUDGET Bridal Attire Estimate

Groom’s Attire Actual Cost

Paid

Estimate

Bridal Gown

Formalwear

Alterations

Alterations

Accessories

Accessories

Undergarments

Shoes

Shoes

Grooming

Makeup

Rings & Gifts Estimate

Stationery Actual Cost

Paid

Estimate

Bride’s Rings

Save-the-Dates

Groom’s Ring

Invitations

Party Gifts

Thank You Notes

Tips

Invitations often weigh more, which means they'll cost more.

Insurance

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

Ceremony

Programs Miscellaneous i.e. menu, seating cards, escort cards, table number cards, etc.

Actual Cost

Paid

Estimate Planner

Officiant

Photography

Flowers Rentals Transportation

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Paid

Postage

Site

Music

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Actual Cost

Planners & Memorabilia Estimate

Remember, you need to get to the ceremony, reception, and home again.

Paid

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

Hair

Find out wh you need to tipo on page 13.

Actual Cost

Rehearsal Dinner

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

They can help 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

BUDGET

Reception Estimate

Actual Cost

Paid

Venue Catering Bar Service

Your vendors will need meals, too.

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 featureslike 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.

TIPPING POINTS 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

$75 - $100 ‘donations’ are appropriate

CEREMONY SITE STAFF

BARTENDERS

15% - 20% of entire bill for the bar

RECEPTION SITE MANAGER

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

15% - 20% of entire bill

DELIVERY/SET-UP PERSONNEL

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

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

LIMOUSINE DRIVER(S)

DJ/BAND

PARKING ATTENDANTS

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

15% - 20% paid to driver

RECEPTION WAIT STAFF

$20 - $40 per person

NOTE: Some contracts include a gratuity built into your price, so be sure to check!

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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WEDDING PLANNER

Planner Package Cost Range*: $500 to $3,500+ * Packages vary by company

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

I nitial consultation

3

and experience 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.

Idea generation

3

Budget creation

3

Stress Reliever

Vendor suggestions

3

Site tours

3

Vendor selection

3

Contracting

3

ccess A to planner for questions

3

3

Answers for etiquette questions

3

3

imeline T 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

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.

?

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,

WEDDING PLANNER

Questions Get the conversation going with these questions: 1. How long have you been planning events?

2. How many weddings do you plan per year?

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!

6. What kind of packages do you offer?

Full-Service

Partial Planning

Day-Of

Power Hour

7. How often will we talk/meet?

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

3. D o you have a portfolio and a list of references?

Yes

No

4. Can you negotiate special rates with other vendors?

Yes

No

5. Will you handle every aspect of the planning?

Yes

No

Yes

No

Power Hour

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!

Full-Service

WEDDING PLANNER DO?

Day-Of

WHAT DOES A

Partial

PLANNING PACKAGES*

3

3

3

3

Notes:

LOCAL WEDDING

PLANNERS Always Eventful...

Events by Tricia Dever . . p. 149 Dream Weddings & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131 Elegant Events

by Maria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 140 Miraj International . . . . . . . p. 15

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

BRIDAL ATTIRE

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

The

Allure Bridal - 3100

available at Galleria Gowns

Dress When you start shopping...

Bring someone you trust. Though you do 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 bringing 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"

BRIDAL ATTIRE

What kind of dress?

Trend ForEcast

Essense of Australia - D2275

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!

Black Accents

Square

Triangle

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

SHEATH

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

EMPIRE

If you want to make a statement at your wedding, this is the trend for you! Fresh, bold, and just a little bit edgy.

EMPIRE

Hourglass

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

SHEATH

EMPIRE

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

EMPIRE

MERMAID

MERMAID

Madil

Long Sleeves When a dress is so beautiful, why end it at the shoulders? Long sleeves are perfect for traditional or trend-setting brides!

Triangle

Martina Liana – Style 909

INVERTED

Over Skirts

R KNOW THE LINGO R

BALLGOWN

A-LINE

EMPIRE

Basque waistline – Crosses the body below your natural waistline and dips in the center forming a v-shape.

Illusion – Transparent fabric made of tulle, lace, or net. Used to create the look of sleeves, a high neckline, or back.

Bell sleeves – These can either be long or short sleeves, ending anywhere from the elbow to the wrist. It fits closely to your arm at the top, then gradually flares out.

Point d’esprit – Fabric, usually tulle, with oval or square dots woven in a random pattern.

Blouson – The effect of the fabric when the waistline is cinched with a belt or drawstring, creating a loose-fitting, voluminous effect above the waist.

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.

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.

Can’t decide between a voluminous or figure-flattering dress? Over skirts combine the best of both gowns for added drama!

Allure Bridal - Wilderly 9523 & CP27

Circle

Capes & Caplets Looking for modesty in a modern, trendy way? Add an intricate cape or caplet to your wedding day ensemble!

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Sottero & Midgley - Allen Maggie Sottero Brinkley

available at Lola's Bridal Boutique

available at Lavender Bridal Salon

Casablanca Bridal - 2290C available at Koda Bridal

Casablanca Bridal - 2324

available at Galleria Gowns

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

BRIDAL ATTIRE

Let'sShop!

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 without a dress. We have a few tips to prepare you for this experience and ensure you find the dress of your dreams!

Sincerity by Justin Alexander - 44047 available at Liliana Bridal House

Start looking 12+ months before your wedding day.

It generally takes six months to produce your gown and you should allow for at least two fittings to ensure a perfect fit. Therefore, we suggest you start shopping before the six month mark.

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.

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.

David's Bridal - MS251173 available at David's Bridal

Allure Bridal - 9103 available at The Flawless Bride

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. You may see it through the dress, and not get a true feel of what the gown will actually look like.

Lillian West - 6478

available at CLE Bride

by Expressions

TODAY’S BRIDE

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Show-off 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 like 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.

Allure Couture - C485 available at Galleria Gowns

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 everything you’ve ever imagined and more and that you’ll look beautiful in it 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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BRIDAL ATTIRE

?

BRIDAL ATTIRE

Questions

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.

Allure Bridal W417 available at Koda Bridal

Before saying yes to the dress, there are a few questions you should ask your Consultant: 1. I found this dress; can I get it through you?

Yes

No

2. Can I purchase a gown off the rack?

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?

Steaming

Garment bag

Dress Storage (prior to wedding)

8. D o you provide gown cleaning and preservation?

Yes

No

BRIDAL ATTIRE SHOPPING LIST: The Dress

Shoes

Slips

Bridesmaid Dresses

Veil

Mother-Of Dresses

Accessories/ Jewelry

Flower Girl Dresses

Other:

Notes:

Lillian West - 6530 available at Doreen Leaf Designs

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

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BRIDAL ATTIRE

Must-Have

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 bring 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 bra-less 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 Stella York - 6541

available at CLE Bride

by Expressions

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 Mori Lee - 6887

available at Doreen Leaf Designs

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

Casablanca Bridal - 2284

available at The Flawless Bride

Stella York - 6391

available at Lavender Bridal Salon

Casablanca Bridal 2234 available at The Flawless Bride

Martin Thornburg

by Mon Cheri - 117282 available at Liliana Bridal House

Sottero & Midgley Orianna available at Lola's Bridal Boutique

TODAY’S BRIDE

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25

MOTHER-OF GOWNS

SHOPPING FOR

Mom

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

Rina diMontella - 2621 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

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!

Daymor Couture - 350 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

Montage by Mon Cheri - 118961

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 motherof-the-groom will wear. You and your future inlaw 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

Daymor Couture- 771 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

Now that you’ve got an idea in your head of what to look for, it’s time to shop! Plan to visit local department stores 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 mother-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 GOWNS

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.

Ivonne D by MonCheri - 116D25

available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE: elp plan, host, and pay for the engageH ment party. elp the bride find the wedding dress of H her dreams, as well as other wedding attire & accessories. ossibly escort the bride down the aisle P and participate in other parts of the ceremony, such as unity ceremonies, when needed. ct as hostess at the wedding and recepA tion, 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.

MOTHER-OF-THE-GROOM: elp plan, host, and pay for the rehearsal H dinner.

I f there’s a mother/son dance, help choose a song for it and dance with your son at the wedding. articipate in parts of the ceremony, such P as unity ceremonies, when needed.

Daymor Couture - 761 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

BOTH: ssist in communicating with vendors A and booking hotel blocks for guests. elp spread the word about where the H couple is registered.

Rina diMontella - 2605 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

iscuss the wedding budget with the D couple, including what you are willing to pay for, and the ideal total number of guests. raw up the guest list for your side of the D family. About 3-4 weeks before the wedding, call any of your guests who have not responded.

Rina diMontella - 2602 available at Vera's Ladies Apparel

The mother-of-the-bride chooses her dress first. Share details about the dress with the mother-of-the-groom.

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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BRIDESMAID ATTIRE

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

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

Share this list of responsibilities and expectations with your bridesmaids!

BRIDESMAID RESPONSIBILITIES: Planning 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, chip in on the cost of decor, food, and prizes, help decorate, and assist with hosting duties.

s d i a m s e d i Br YOUR

Christina Wu - 22817

available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Shopping 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.

Helping 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.

Attending pre-wedding events. These include: shopping trips, engagement 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.

Keeping 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.

Top 3 Things You’ll Spend Money On Your wedding day look – 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.

You may also have to pay for your own transportation and lodging if you go out-of-town to celebrate.

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BRIDESMAID 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.

1. H ow long have you known her?

4. Will your friendship suffer if you don't ask her?

A. She would be so upset.

A. W e’ve been best friends forever.

B. S he’s friends with my fiancé.

C. W e are family.

2. When was the last time you hung out?

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

B. S ometime in the past 12 months.

C. W e hangout almost every week.

3. She’s most likely to...?

A. cancel plans.

B. b e on time, if not early.

C. s how up late.

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

C. She’d probably be relieved.

5. Does she get along with the other bridesmaids?

A. Not all of them.

B. Yeah, she’s very likeable.

C. No, but she wouldn't cause drama.

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

A. Absolutely!

B. We've grown apart already.

C. I’m sure we’ll still be in touch.

SCORING: 1. A=0, B=1, C=2 2. A=1, B=0, C=2 3. A=0, B=2, C=1 4. A=2, B=1, C=0 5. A=0, B=2, C=1 6. A=2, B=0, C=1 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 Bridesmaids1562,1568,1567

Bridesmaid's Day-Of Checklist:

available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Allure Bridesmaids - 1508 available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Christina Wu Celebration - 22790

available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

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TODAY'S BRIDE

NO.

Dress Shoes Heel Inserts & Band-Aids Jewelry A Clutch Undergarments Double-Stick Tape A Small Sewing Kit An Instant Stain Remover A 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.

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BRIDESMAID BRIDESMAIDATTIRE ATTIRE

SHOPPING FOR YOUR

Bridesmaids

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.

Christina Wu Celebration 22782, 22789, 22784, 22800

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.

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 maidof-honor, mom, and possibly your mother-in-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.

BRIDESMAID GOWNS

?

Questions

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.

1. H ow 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?

Yes

5. D o you offer a discount to my bridesmaids if I buy my dress from you?

Notes:

Christina Wu Celebration - 22779

available at American Commodore Dress Shoppe

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

Yes

No

No

BRIDAL SHOPS

Where to shop Visit each store’s website for a full list of designers, store hours and locations, inspirational photos of gowns you can buy, and to set up your appointment!

Simply ValStephani S2085 available at Lavender Bridal Salon

American Commodore Dress Shoppe

Galleria Gowns

Some designers they carry: Adrianna Papell, Christina Wu, Allure, Bill Levkoff, MoriLee* (*at select locations)

Some designers they carry: Allure Bridal, Bill Levkoff, Casablanca Bridal, Justin Alexander, Maggie Sottero

CLE Bride by Expressions

Koda Bridal

Some designers they carry: Jasmine, Lillian West, Mori Lee, Stella York, Sincerity by Justin Alexander

Some designers they carry: Allure Bridal, Casablanca, Jasmine, Moonlight, Ursula

www.acdress.com See ad on page 29

www.clebride.com See ad on page 31

David's Bridal

www.davidsbridal.com See ad on page 131 Some designers they carry: David's Bridal Collection, Galina, Melissa Sweet, Oleg Cassini, White by Vera Wang

Doreen Leaf Designs

www.doreenleafdesigns.com See ad on page 38 Some designers they carry: Essense of Australia, Lillian West, MoriLee, Maggie Sottero, Justin Alexander

www.galleriagowns.net See ad on page 13

www.kodabridal.com See ad on page 91

Lavender Bridal Salon

www.ohioweddingdress.com See ad on page 21 Some designers they carry: Adrianna Papell, Casablanca Bridal, Maggie Sottero, Simply ValStefani, Stella York

Liliana Bridal House www.lilianabridal.com See ad on page 23

Some designers they carry: Christina Wu, Enchanting by Mon Cheri, Martin Thornburg by Mon Cheri, Sincerity by Justin Alexander

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com 34

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

Lola's Bridal Boutique

www.lolabridalboutique.com See ad on page 81 Some designers they carry: AloNuko, Christina Wu, Eaden Myles Designs, Joan's Bridal Couture, Maggie Sottero

The Flawless Bride

www.shoptheflawlessbride.com See ad on page 85 Some designers they carry: Allure Bridal, Casablanca, EddyK

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

Some designers they carry: Cameron Blake, Ivonne D by Mon Cheri, Jovani, MGNY, Montage

by Mon Cheri

LOCAL ALTERATION & PRESERVATION BUSINESSES Alterations Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 1 Cleveland Wedding Gown Preservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 145

Content Provided by Alterations Express

CEREMONY

PLANNING YOUR

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

?

Questions CEREMONY

Make sure that every detail of your ceremony is planned and executed to unforgettable perfection by asking these important questions.

Questions to ask Officiants:

1. W ill you give a speech/sermon?

Yes

No

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

Yes

No

3. C an we choose the readings?

Yes

No

4. W ill you perform the marriage at the venue of our choice?

Yes

No

5. D o you have sample vow wordings?

Yes

No

6. Do you require pre-marital counseling?

Yes

No

7. Will you attend the rehearsal?

Yes

No

Questions to ask ceremony venues: 1. M ay we bring in our own Officiant?

Black Dog Photo, Co.

Yes

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, 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.

make sure you know of any guidelines before purchasing your dress.

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.

FIND A LOCAL CEREMONY VENUE ON PAGE 42 Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com 36

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

No

2. Do you have a bridal suite?

Yes

No

3. Are there any restrictions for decorations, vendors, or music?

Yes

4. I s there a dress code?

No

Yes

No

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

Yes

No

2. W hat instruments do you offer?

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

Yes

No

4. H ow far in advance should I book?

Notes:

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

CEREMONY

order of procession

REASONS TO HAVE AN

Unplugged Ceremony • You paid a lot of money for the photog- • You don’t want someone’s

1

Officiant

Grandparents

(Escorted by ushers)

2

3

Parents-ofthe-Groom

rapher to get good shots and you don’t

phone to blare “Eye of the

want someone’s head or iPhone messing

Tiger” halfway through

them up.

your vows.

• You don’t want to be blinded by flashes • If anyone’s sharing photos on social media when you are walking down the aisle.

4

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

• You want your guests to be in the moment — not documenting it.

to all those frenemies who didn’t get an invite, it should be you – with professional quality photos – not your second cousin.

5

TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR

Groom 6

Ring Bearer 8 and Flower Girl 9

Bride and Fatherof-the-Bride

While creating my hashtag came naturally –

I love the idea of having

#ThiTheKnot was just too perfect - creating your

a small get-together with

own hashtag can be more difficult than you’d

your wedding party and brain-

expect! While some may prefer the generic and

storming possibilities! Provide appe-

easy-to-remember – like combining your names,

tizers and drinks, plan a game or two, and start

using your new last name, or including your wed-

shouting out ideas! Not only will you end up with

ding date – others like to come up with a creative

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

pun or wordplay.

members of your party to get to know each other!

an

7

Best Man and Maid-of-Honor

#HASH TA G

d Jor

Groomsmen and Bridesmaids

Th i

,T oda y’s Bride

– TAYLOR JARVIS, TODAY’S BRIDE

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LMAC Photography

CEREMONY

Ceremony Decor CHECKLIST

Odds are, your Pinterest board is filled with reception decor ideas, but have you thought about your ceremony decor? Ask your venue about any restrictions and use this checklist to get started!

Seating Arches Aisle runner Pew adornments Altar flowers Reserved seating signage Directional signage

Some of our favorites: • “Ceremony here, Reception there, Love everywhere!”

• “Pick a seat, not a side, you’re loved by both the groom and bride.”

Things to think about: • Check with your venue before you plan your decor. Some venues, like churches, limit what you can decorate with.

• How do you plan to transport the decor to the reception site, or where do you plan to store it during the reception?

• Often, altar flowers are donated to the church after the ceremony.

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. Wedding March by Mendelssohn 2. Bridal Chorus by Wagner 3. Canon in D by Pachelbel

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

4. A Thousand Years by Christina Perri 5. Marry Me by Train 6. Turning Page by Sleeping at Last 7. Crazy Love by Van Morrison 8. Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat

l he

10. Can’t Help Falling in Love by Ingrid Michaelson

Rac

9. Somewhere Only We Know by Lily Allen

Ya gl , T oda y’s Bride

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CEREMONY

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39

VENUES

Venue Cost Range*: $3,000 to $10,000+ *cost range can vary due to location, and the number of guests. Also, some venues include catering and bar service.

Venue

FINDING YOUR RECEPTION

The Cleveland Photographic Co

6-10 POINTS

PLAYFUL & FREE-SPIRITED

What venue fits your style?

Your personal style is hard to define and varies with each day. How can you showcase your personality throughout your wedding? By choosing a venue with the right features and finding the perfect accent decor, you’ll create a wedding day style that is 100% you!

1. What kind of dress do you like?

4. What kind of shoes do you most often wear?

A. Flowy and simple B. Fit for a princess C. Super untraditional, i.e. jumpsuit

A. Sandals or barefoot B. Pumps C. Anything that makes a statement

2. What dessert do you plan on serving?

5. What kind of food will you have?

A. Donuts B. Dessert Bar C. Wedding Cake

A. Appetizers only B. 3 course meal C. Comfort food

3. What’s your favorite flower?

6. What kind of hairpiece will you wear?

A. Rose B. Peony C. Sunflower

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

Koman Photography

10-14 POINTS

CHIC & DRAMATIC

You love to wow people, and that’s no exception when it comes to your wedding!

Find an over-the-top venue with dramatic features like an extravagant ballroom or a panoramic view.

Rising Star Photography

14-18-POINTS

ARTISTIC & CREATIVE

You are the first to try new trends and aren’t afraid to stand out in a crowd.

Unique venues like rooftops, theaters, and museums are the perfect match for your one-of-a-kind style!

A. Flower crown B. Tiara C. Birdcage veil

SCORING: 1. A=1, B=2, C=3 2. A=3, B=1, C=2 3. A=2, B=3, C=1 4. A=1, B=2, C=3 5. A=3, B=2, C=1 6. A=3, B=1, C=2 40

You don’t take things too seriously and you want your reception to be fun and lively. Outdoor venues are perfect for you! Think estate lawns, gardens, greenhouses, tents, and barns!

The Heartlanders Co.

Trend ForEcast

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

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

* will help

Your DJ you stay on schedule.

7:40PM Bouquet & garter tosses 7:50PM Dance ’til you drop!

8:30PM Cake-cutting 9:55PM The grand exit 10:00PM Reception ends 10:01PM Vendors breakdown

Copper

?

Questions VENUES

From place settings to centerpieces, cake designs to invitations, copper is versatile and diverse.

*manYoyu bashthouroldomals soarnoe teavaiholawble

JazzyMae Photography

and the size of the parking lot.

It’s important to visit each site 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.

12. D o you work with:

Here are some questions to ask Venues: 1. How far in advance should I book?

Preferred Vendors

Gideon Photography

& mother-son dance

Singler Photography

party and newlyweds

6:20PM First dance 6:25PM Toasts 6:40PM Blessing over the meal (optional) 6:45PM Dinner service begins 7:30PM Father-daughter dance

Lounges A cozy seating area encourages guests to mingle and offers their feet some relief after dancing!

Outside Vendors 2. What is the room's capacity?

13. W hat are your decorating guidelines?

Yes

No Fee:

4. Is there a fee if the reception runs long?

Yes

No Fee:

No

7. Is there a Venue Coordinator available?

Yes

No

15. H ow early can we access the space to

No

6. Will I be the only wedding that day?

Yes

14. D o you have in-house decorators?

Yes

5. Do you have a ceremony space?

Yes

Genevieve Nisly Photography

3. Is there a facility rental fee?

decorate?

16. D o you have outdoor locations for photos?

Hedges Whether free-standing or adorned with flowers, boxwood hedges are guaranteed to make a statement.

No

8. Do you provide security?

Yes

No

Notes:

9. I s there valet service or a parking fee?

Parking Fee: Westlund Photography

Valet

10. Do you have a: Bridal Suite

Dance Floor

Stage

Coat Check

Acrylic

11. Do you offer/rent: Catering

Bar Service

Tables

Linens

Centerpieces

Chairs

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

This translucent trend is taking over wedding decor, probably because it fits with any theme, from modern to traditional!

+12 MONTHS UNTIL "I DO" TODAY’S BRIDE

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41

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

440-646-1777 | www.700beta.com

109

350

330-995-7627 | www.thebertraminn.com

89

400

39

500

3

400

Country Lakes Party Center

330-576-2161 | clubmotorestates.com/weddings

440-526-0216 | www.countrylakesohio.com

410

CLEVELAND

ELYRIA

Doubletree Hotel Cleveland - Lakeside

Elegant Assets Historical Event Center

216-928-3232 | www.doubletree3.hilton.com

111

42

350 |

440-458-1563 | www.elegantassetseventcenter.com

139

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

300

250

39

CLEVELAND 216-251-2131 | www.brennanspartycenter.com

85

BROADVIEW HTS.

145

Ariel Pearl Center

Brennan's Catering & Banquet Center

330-520-8511 | www.bookblueheron.com

CLEVELAND

216-344-9447 | www.arielinternationalcenter.com 216-246-0721 | www.arielpearlcenter.com

MEDINA Blue Heron Event Center

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

CLEVELAND

142

Club Motor Estates Event Center

425

= Call for Details

Ariel International Center

440-933-7500 | www.aherncatering.com

BROADVIEW HTS.

87

= Bar Service Available

Ahern Catering & Banquet Center

AURORA Bertram Inn & Conference Center

= Capacity

AVON LAKE

MAYFIELD VILLAGE 700 Beta Banquet & Conference Center

= Catering Available

400

CLEVELAND Cleveland Metroparks Zoo - Stillwater Place

216-635-3304 | clevelandmetroparks.com/weddings

9

CLEVELAND Crop Bistro

300

CLEVELAND Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square

216-696-2767 | www.cropbistro.com

57

200

216-615-3325 | crowneplaza.com/clvplayhousesq

200

48

250

BEACHWOOD

AVON

Emerald Event Center at the Residence Inn Embassy Suites - Beachwood 440-937-0909 | www.emeraldeventcenter.com

37

350

216-255-3157 | www.embassybeachwood.com

79

350

VENUES

INDEPENDENCE Embassy Suites Cleveland – Rockside

Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland Airport

216-986-9900 | www.embassysuites3.hilton.com

216-252-7700 | www.fourpointsclevelandairport.com 330-723-4653 | www.foxmeadowcc.com

103

123

800

200

Fox Meadow Country Club

154

300

CLEVELAND

CANTON

Great Lakes Science Center

Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown

330-966-3600 | www.glenmoorcc.com

216-696-4941 | www.greatscience.com

216-658-6400 | www.hgiclevelandweddings.com

300

131

250

La-Vera Party Center

LaCentre Conference & Banquet Facility

440-943-0087 | www.la-vera.com

440-250-2000 | www.lacentre.com

7

340

154

CLEVELAND Nautica Queen

128

WESTLAKE

WILLOUGHBY HILLS

700

300

CLEVELAND Hofbrauhaus Cleveland 216-621-2337 | www.hofbrauhauscleveland.com

75

100

GENEVA-ON-THE-LAKE Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva-on-the-Lake 440-415-1527 | www.thelodgeatgeneva.com

55

230

47

Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar

136

127

250

300

NORTH LAWRENCE

CLEVELAND

143

PAINESVILLE

300

800-291-5001 | www.landollsmohicancastle.com

440-526-3357 | www.neworleanspartycenter.com 216-737-1000 | www.nuevomodmex.com

270

83

Landoll's Mohican Castle

800-837-0604 | www.nauticaqueen.com

270

330-497-1000 | www.gervasivineyard.com

LOUDONVILLE

BRECKSVILLE New Orleans Party Center

Gervasi Vineyard

CLEVELAND

Glenmoor Country Club

91

CANTON

MEDINA

CLEVELAND

Peacock Ridge 330-936-1266 | www.peacockridge.com

77

SOLON

MEDINA

CLEVELAND

200

Quail Hollow Resort

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum

Rustic Hills Country Club

Signature of Solon

440-497-1100 | www.quailhollowresort.com

216-515-1205 | www.rockhall.com/rent-the-rock

330-725-4281 | www.rustichills.com

440-498-8888 | www.signatureofsoloncc.com

140

153

44

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TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

500

67

275

154

500

VENUES

CLEVELAND

GENEVA-ON-THE-LAKE

NORTH CANTON

CLEVELAND

The Cleveland Agora

The Historic Onesto Event Center

The Lakehouse Inn & Winery

The Metropolitan at the 9

216-881-2221 | www.agoracleveland.com

330-458-3097 | www.historiconesto.com

440-466-8668 | www.thelakehouseinn.com

216-331-6306 | www.the9cleveland.com

500

CLEVELAND The Union Club 216-621-4230 | www.theunionclub.org

63

250

33

Jason Thomas Crocker Photography

92

320

59

50

43

BROADVIEW HTS.

MEDINA

CLEVELAND

250

Woodside Event Center at St. Michael's

Tudor Arms - A Doubletree Hotel

Weymouth Country Club

216-456-2691 | www.tudorarmsevents.com

330-725-6297 | www.weymouthcc.com

440-526-9696 | www.stmichaelswoodside.com

154

49

65

320

OTHER VENUES TO CONSIDER Coastal Taco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 119 Mallorca Restaurant /Brasa Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 The Hotel at Oberlin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com This information is subject to change, so be sure to call any venue you’re interested in to make sure they offer the amenities that are important to you. You should never book a site without visiting it in-person first. Narrow your list down to a top 3 (no more 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. It can also help to visit around the time of day your reception will take place so you can note traffic patterns and natural lighting.

Have this information ready when calling venues: Date Option #1: Date Option #2: Date Option #3:

500

400

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE? the perfect place to start Join Today's Bride for access to our complete Northeast Ohio Venue Review!

Number of guests: Must-haves:

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

Be sure to set an appointment to see the venue!

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

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45

CATERING

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

Eats +Drinks

8

CATERING MISTAKES

1. Not having a budget in mind. Go into your initial meeting with a budget already set in your mind and ask about options that fit within that number. Your caterer should be able to work with you to come up with a menu that pleases your taste buds and your budget.

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.

3. Not thinking about the kids. If your menu consists of courses like shrimp scampi or risotto, kids probably won’t be apt to try it.

Offer options like mac and cheese, chicken

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

tenders, or pizza to satisfy the children at your wedding (and their parents).

4. Not offering a filling vegetarian dish.

Your RSVP card should include a space for guests to mark any dietary restrictions they have. However, many guests may prefer a vegetarian option, but don’t mark it down as a dietary need. 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.

5. Serving too much food at the cocktail hour. The cocktail hour is meant to be an appetizer and hors d’oeuvres course, not a main course. You should have a limited amount of food to be served so that guests don’t ruin their appetites for dinner.

6. Requesting out-of-season dishes. Ordering side dishes or ingredients that aren’t in season can do some major damage to your budget. Talk to your caterer to see what other options they recommend or similar tasting recipes.

The Heartlanders Co.

7. Ordering too much dessert. Not every guest will eat cake as they’ll be busy out on the dance floor. Though 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. Before your wedding day arrives, 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 or if you can keep it. 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.

LOCAL WEDDING

CATERERS Catering by Verba's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 135 Famous Dave's Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143 Old Carolina Barbecue Company . . . p. 137

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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.

CATERING BY THE

numbers

CATERING

?

Questions CATERING

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!

When speaking with your Caterer, be sure to ask:

Ordering just the right amount of food will ensure that you don’t miss out

1. How do you charge?

on any leftovers (and that your fridge won’t be stuffed when you return!).

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. D o you offer free taste testings?

Yes

Yes

No

No

APPETIZERS

No Yes

}

6 pieces per guest

No

7. What kind of services are available?

Seated

Buffet

Food stations

Family style

Food truck

Other

ENTRÉE

}

1.5 servings per guest

8. What is the server-to-guest ratio?

9. Do you offer cake-cutting services?

Yes

No

SIDE DISHES

Notes:

}

1.5 servings per guest

Visit TodaysBride.com/food for more info on catering.

toast to the perfect pairing Standing majestically along the Lake Erie shore and nestled in the heart of Ohio’s Wine Country, The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers a signature Ohio wedding location. Say “I do” in one of Ohio’s most picturesque places. Start planning your big day today.

TheLodgeAtGeneva.com | 866.387.5710 Located off I-90 on SR 534 North Hospitality by Delaware North. ©2018 DNC Parks & Resorts at Geneva State Park, LLC.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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47

CATERING

What kind of dinner should you have?

Choose the phrase that describes the feel of your wedding.

Glamorous and chic

How do you feel about leftovers?

Casual get-together

Traditional and formal

The more the merrier!

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 Genevieve Nisly Photography

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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.

BAR SERVICE

PICKING THE PERFECT

Signature Drink

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

Signature cocktails are a great way to set your wedding apart from the rest. Offering a unique selection that people associate with your wedding is a great way to ensure that your big day will be remembered.

1. What season are you getting married?

3. What will you be doing on your honeymoon?

A. Exploring the city B. Road trip C. Cuddling in the snowy mountains D. Relaxing on the beach

A. Spring B. Summer C. Fall D. Winter

2. What best describes the food you will be serving?

4. What is your go-to on a Friday night?

A. Comfort food B. A ppetizers and finger foods only C. T raditional chicken, fish, beef options D. Brunch

A. Martini B. Shots C. Wine D. Fruity cocktail

SCORING: 1. A=2, B=1, C=3, D=4 2. A=1, B=3, C=4, D=2 3. A=2, B=2, C=4, D=1 4. A=4, B=1, C=2, C=3

?

Moscow Mule Margarita

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Questions BAR SERVICE

Ask yourself and your vendors

1. How long should bar service be available?

Be sure to arrange for bar service that lasts as long as the reception (the average reception lasts between four and six hours). Customarily, the bar will close during dinner, 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.

2. What are my drink options?

You can choose to have a full bar or serve wine and beer as a more cost-effective option. If you want liquor but don’t want the cost of a full bar, consider 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!

Glass

Bottle

Other

4. Do you offer top-shelf liquor ?

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

No

9-12 Points

13-16 Points

5. If there are any bottles leftover, will we be refunded?

Yes

No

Corkage is a fee to open wine that you supply

Take the leftovers home

6. Is there a corkage charge?

Yes

No Fee:

7. H ow many bartenders will there be?

How much for additional bartenders?

8. D o you supply other beverages?

Water

Coffee

Tea

Soda

Juice

Other

9. I s gratuity included in the package?

Yes

No

How much?

10. I s a champagne toast included?

Yes, for all guests

Yes, bridal party only

11. D o you close during meal service?

Notes:

Yes

5-8 Points

Irish Coffee

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?

these questions before booking:

3. Are we charged by the glass or by the bottle?

1-4 Points

Cosmo

Yes

No No

BAR SERVICE

numbers 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.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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51

?

MEN'S ATTIRE

Ken Love Photography

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:

Tuxedos

Sell

Suits

Rent

3. D o you sell accessories?

Yes

No

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

Stock

Order

When to order: 5. D o you do alterations?

Yes

No

6. H ow do out-of-town groomsmen get fitted?

7. How many fittings will I have?

8. D o you have any discounts?

Yes

No

MEN'S ATTIRE SHOPPING LIST: Jacket

Undershirt

Vest

Tie

Suspenders

Tie Clip

Belt

Cuff Links

Trousers

Pocket Square

Shoes

Ask your consultant how to fold your pocket square.

LOCAL MEN'S

ATTIRE VENDORS American Commodore Tuxedo . . . . . . . . . .

Button-Down Shirt

Inside Front Cover

Boumadi's Clothiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 51 Men's Wearhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 90

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

Notes:

Ken Love Photography

MEN'S ATTIRE

e r i tt A s ' n e Questions M Men's Attire Cost Range: $75 to $1,000+

Socks

ADDING

PERSONALIT Y

Your wedding day attire should reflect your personal style. Even if you don’t typically put a lot of thought into what you’re wearing, consider your favorite outfits.

Is there a color you love to wear? Is there a specific flower you get for your fiancé on special occasions?

Incorporate personal touches like these into your ensemble! Wear cuff links that have a quote from your favorite movie or a tie clip your grandpa passed down to you. Sport a bow-tie to show off your playful personality or Lebron James’ shoes to represent your love for the Cavs. Whether you opt for formal or casual attire, adding a touch of your personality will ensure you’re comfortable.

Left to right: B. Frohman Imaging + Design, Black Dog Photo, Co., Rising Star Photography, Black Dog Photo, Co., B. Frohman Imaging + Design, Black Dog Photo, Co,, Black Dog Photo, Co., Orchard Photography, B. Frohman Imaging + Design

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. While the result is bold and adventurous, it’s not obtrusive and won’t

tie should end just above your trousers.

✓ There should not be a gap be-

tween your shirt collar and jacket collar.

✓ When

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

✓ The hem of your jacket should

ble-button jacket should never be clasped.

Always unbutton your jacket before you sit down.

✓ I f you’re wearing a vest, don’t butThe most common ways to incorporate a bit of color are with your socks, pocket square, or tie. If you’re feeling really bold, you can try a colored suit, wear a pastel

matter the event or the look, the best accesso-

ic

er

fidence.

✓ Y our

shirt cuffs should surpass your jacket sleeves by about half an inch. socks should be long enough to cover your ankles and legs when you sit down.

ed tie! Remember: no

ry to any outfit is con-

ton the bottom button.

✓ Y our

button-down, or a print-

Fr

cummerbund do.

✓ Your

✓ The top button of a dou-

Jim

hinder your movement the way coat tails or a

width of your lapel.

a double-button jacket, the top button should fall at or just above your navel.

it comes to fashion, especially when stand-

some color! As a fashion-forward, frequently

✓ Match the width of your tie to the

✓ With

Men often get forgotten or overlooked when

some heads with this one suggestion: add

FIT TIPS

cover your pants’ zipper.

POP A POP OF COLOR ing next to a bride. You’re guaranteed to turn

Genevieve Nisly Photography

ks ,

Tod ay’s Bride

For more information on men's attire visit TodaysBride.com/Groom.

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

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53

MEN'S ATTIRE

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.

The Cleveland Photographic Co.

Print off the itinerary ring a gift or heartfelt letter for B the bride Bring the signed Marriage License ring wedding bands and pass B them off to the Best Man right before the ceremony Present groomsmen with gifts ake sure there are snacks and M water in the groom’s suite reate tip envelopes and assign C a groomsman or your parents to hand them out LMAC Photography

ake sure ushers are aware of any M special seating arrangements

The Heartlanders Co.

eet with Officiant, Musicians, M Transportation Driver, and any other vendors for any last-minute changes or questions Get a close shave ang your suit or tux so it doesn’t H wrinkle ring a steamer or iron for any B last-minute touch-ups rop off yours and your bride’s D luggage in the car or hotel room where you’ll be staying G et portraits of you and your groomsmen before the ceremony to save time for family photos between the ceremony and reception

Black Dog Photo, Co.

ave a good breakfast and keep H hydrated

JazzyMae Photography

Genevieve Nisly Photography

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.

MEN'S ATTIRE

D

Trends we

Love

It's the groom's day, too! Though all eyes will be on the bride, these trends will ensure you're feeling stylish and confident.

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Black Dog Photo Co.

Statement Rings – Bling isn’t just for the brides anymore! And why should it be? When talking about a piece of jewelry you’ll wear for the rest of your life, grooms have started to choose more stylish and comfortable wedding bands. Not only do you have options when it comes to materials – like gold, silver, platinum, or even wood – but you can also consider adding an inlay for dimension like meteorite, ivory, diamonds, or a texturized metal.

Kelly Maughan Fine Art + Photography

Mismatched Groomsmen – Letting your groomsmen choose their own outfit for your wedding day may be scary. Though you may have to provide a few guidelines, this freedom embraces their personality and style! Different fabrics and textures, shades and colors, patterns and prints will bring diversity and dimension to your photos. As long as there’s a consistent theme and the groom stands out, mismatching your groomsmen’s attire can be a fun way to spice up your wedding party!

Catherine Hall Studios

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Checked Suit – Also known as plaid or tartan, this textured material is a nod to the 1920s. Making its way among modern trends, the checked suit is bringing with it all the air of confidence, wealth, and ambition that came with that age. The groom or groomsmen are sure to feel sophisticated and fashion-forward wearing this pattern.

BEAUTY

Beauty Hair & Makeup Cost Range*: $50 to $200+ *Depending on the services you book.

6-9 months

Continue this once every three months.

•D ecide 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.

•S chedule a conditioning hair treatment.

• I f you plan to lose weight, book a personal trainer or come up with a fitness and diet routine.

•M eet 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.

•S tart using whitening toothpaste, strips, rinses, or schedule a consultation with a dentist.

1-2 months • I f you’re planning on using self-tanning lotion, begin use once a week.

• I f you’re planning on using tanning beds, visit a salon once a week for 10 minute increments.

• Get a facial.

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

• Get final highlights.

•H ave a final trial hair and makeup appointment to finalize your look.

Questions you should ask:

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!

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

BEAUTY

You may consider doing your own hair and makeup, but trust us, hiring a professional is your best option. They will ensure that every strand is in place and make your skin glow for pictures.

2 weeks

?

Questions

BECOMING PICTURE PERFECT

BEAUTY TIMELINE

Artistic Photography Inc

1. D o you provide on-location services?

Yes

No

2. Is there a travel fee?

Yes

No Fee:

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

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.

•G et a facial.

5. What is included in a trial?

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

7. How much does a trial run cost?

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!

LOCAL

HEALTH & BEAUTY Cleveland Fitness Club . . . . . . . . p. 148

4. Do you conceal tattoos?

WOW Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 59

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

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

No

6. When should I schedule my trial?

8. W ill you be my stylist the day-of?

Yes

9. What size party can you accommodate?

jodidoeshair.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 92 Manifest Beauty Bar . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139

Yes

Notes:

No

BEAUTY

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BEAUTY

HAIR INSPIRATION 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!

Christine Chia

Hair and Makeup by Steph

The Heartlanders Co.

Karen Menyhart Photography

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Christine Chia

Whitney Burkhart

BEAUTY JazzyMae Photography

Whitney Burkhart

Koman Photography

Whitney Burkhart

Melissa Gidney Photography

Whitney Burkhart

Whitney Burkhart

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JazzyMae Photography

BEAUTY

DISCOVERING THE

BEST YOU

We all want to be healthy year-round, but it’s especially important on your wedding day. You don’t want to wake up to find a pimple on your chin or have a stuffy nose as you say your vows. Make sure you create a health and beauty routine in the months leading up to your wedding day so you can enjoy every moment knowing you look and feel your best.

SKIN 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!

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. This is especially important when you have a breakout! We know it’s tempting, but no popping!

HAIR

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

DON’T use straighteners, blow dryers, or curling irons. Instead, use microfiber towels. They are more absorbent and will soak up extra moisture quicker.

TEETH

DO look for toothpaste with baking soda as a main ingredient and that advertises enamel strengthening.

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. Stress takes a toll on your body and can be seen in the form of bloating, baggy eyes, acne, pale complexion, and more.

DON’T exercise for the wrong reasons. We’re big supporters of loving your body exactly the way it is. After all, your fiancé fell in love with you as you are! 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. When you don’t sleep enough, your skin looks thin and drawn, you get dark circles under your eyes, and your mind and body don’t work their best.

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 spouseto-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.

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BEAUTY

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VIDEOGRAPHY

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

Videography WHY YOU WANT A VIDEOGRAPHER

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.

Relive the moment in real time.

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.

?

Questions VIDEOGRAPHY

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.

Questions you should ask:

1. H ave you shot at my ceremony and reception locations before?

Yes

No

2. H ow many cameras will you use?

3. Will you be the Videographer the day-of?

Yes

No

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

Yes

No

5. W ill there be an additional Videographer?

Yes

No

6. How will I receive my video?

7. When will I receive my video?

8. W ill you interview my guests?

Yes

No

9. What shots would you recommend?

It offers a different perspective.

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.

10. H ow long will my video be?

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

Yes

No

Notes:

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

Orchard Photography

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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.

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

LOCAL

VIDEOGRAPHERS

A Crystal Clear Sound, Video, Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 142 BCR Studios by Brad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p 56 Black Dog Photo, Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 116 Elite Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 65

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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. Watching 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-

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ward to at your wedding?

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

B. Walking down the aisle to my fiancé.

C. Seeing relatives who live out-of-state.

TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE

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. E veryone we know! The more the merrier!

4. Are you utilizing social me-

dia in your wedding?

A. W e’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. T here’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

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

y h p a r g o hot

P

DOS AND DON’TS OF HIRING A PHOTOGRAPHER

LOCAL

PHOTOGRAPHERS A Crystal Clear Sound, Video, Photo . . p. 142 Artistic Photography Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 133 B. Frohman Imaging + Design . . . . . . . . . p. 71 BCR Studios by Brad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 56 BellaLegacy Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143 Black Dog Photo Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 116 Cirino Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 135 Courtney Marie Photography . . . . . . . . . . p. 141 Genevieve Nisly Photography . . . . . . . . . p. 63 Jadie Foto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 103 JazzyMae Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149 Karen Menyhart Photography . . . . . . . . . p. 67 Ken Love Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 LMAC Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 123 Made to Create Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131 McNair Photographic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 145 Orchard Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 79 Pulsart Media Photography . . . . . . . . . . p. 137 Rising Ashes Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139 Rising Star Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149 The Cleveland Photographic Co. . . . . . p. 109 The Heartlanders Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148

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Ken Love Photography

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 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 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.

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 can be comfortable around.

DON’T 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

ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS 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!

Karen Menyhart Photography

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.

Nikia Williams Photography

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

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Questions PHOTOGRAPHY

Questions you should ask:

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 will 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 Karen Menyhart shoot?

Photography Learn more about photography at www.TodaysBride.com/photos.

The images your Photographer captures will become a permanent reminder of your day, so choose wisely! Use the questions below to help you.

8. D o you have a standard shot list?

Yes

1. What is your style of photography?

selfies. There may be the occasional group shot with friends or family or arms around each other 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.

15. H ow will my photos be given to me?

No

CD Printed

9. I s there a fee for additional locations?

2. What sets you apart from others?

Yes

No Fee:

USB

FTP

Other

16. W hat is your copyright policy ?

10. H ow many hours will I have?

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

Yes

No

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

Yes

No

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

Yes

No

6. Will there be a second-shooter?

Yes

No

7. When do I need to book you by?

11. Do you have a back-up plan if things go wrong?

Yes

No

12. C an I customize a package?

Yes

17. H ow long do you keep my photos?

18. D o you offer photo albums?

No

Included in package Add-on service

13. D o you do engagement photos?

Included in package Add-on service

No

Notes:

No

14. W hen can I expect to receive my images?

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PHOTOGRAPHY

boudoir

Photos by: B, Frohman Imaging + Design

Q+A

Q. What is a boudoir shoot?

A. A boudoir shoot is an intimate and personal session where the Photographer captures the female body in a positive and sensual way.

Q. What do I wear?

A. A boudoir shoot may be outside of your comfort zone. That being said, it’s important to feel comfortable! These photos are meant to make you feel beautiful and glamorous in your skin.

Wear whatever makes you feel confident and sexy, whether that’s a dressing robe, lingerie, your wedding veil, or even nude.

You can get creative by wearing your partner’s favorite sports jersey, leather jacket, work tie, or posing with a prop, like a guitar!

Q. What if I’m self-conscious?

A. The Photographer poses you

in a way that captures the features you love most and hides the areas you’re not as confident about. They’ll direct you to arch, bend, and twist in a way that’s like yoga to add roundness to your booty and chest while making your stomach look toned and your legs look long and lean. Using lighting and shooting from different angles to enhance your beauty, the Photographer will ensure that you are showcasing your best self!

Q. What are the details of the shoot itself?

A. Typically, the Photographer has a studio and props to use for

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and confident – all the things you want to feel on your wedding day! Though brides often gift these photos to their groom, they’re even more so a gift for YOU! They’re designed to make you feel gorgeous, whether you’re about to say “I Do,” are celebrating a milestone, or just want to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

These shoots aren’t only for size-2 models. Whether you’re light skinned or dark, plus-size, ethnic, LGBTQ or straight, male or female, a boudoir shoot will leave you feeling self-assured, fearless, and invincible.

Special thanks to B. Frohman Imaging + Design for lending us her expertise.

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.

• Don’t forget to smile with your eyes.

er nif Jen

this shoot, though it can be done in your own home. The shoot itself can take anywhere from 60-90 minutes, not including prep-time. Some Photographers may have a makeup and hair stylist included in their package, or may expect you to arrive ready to shoot. Most wedding photography packages don’t include a boudoir shoot, though some Photographers may be willing to replace the engagement shoot with this. Ask your Photographer about different options and review the details and expectations before signing a contract. Your investment can be anywhere between $500-$2,000 based on hair and makeup, length of the shoot, and keepsake options.

Q. What else should I know?

A. After having boudoir photos taken, you’ll feel beautiful, empowered, sexy,

Fy

ffe

, T oday’s Bride

101

Before signing a contract, discuss with your Photographer how you’ll be receiving your photos.

Here are some of the most common ways:

Print – Wedding albums are a beautiful keepsake to show to future generations, but unless you scan and upload each photo to your computer, you can’t share them online. Plus, you run the risk of losing them!

CD – CDs are one way to store your photos so that you can have the best of both worlds – digital uploading capabilities and printing rights. The downside is that they can easily get scratched or damaged.

USB – A USB, like a CD, allows you to print copies of your photos as well as upload them to social media, but they’re more commonly used because of their versatile storage sizes. Though they’re much harder to destroy, the small stick can easily be misplaced.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) – FTP has become one of the most popular ways to share files. With sites like Dropbox, your Photographer can upload his or her edited photos to a folder that only you have a username and password to. Then, you can download these files to your own computer, send them to a printer, or share them on social media. However, the Photographer does have the ability to turn off your access.

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO FILES

R KNOW THE LINGO R 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.

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.

Fine Art Style – Creative lighting, unique angles, an artistic point of view, and quality post-production editing are important aspects in a fine art style photograph. The Photographer will look at everything within the frame and choose aesthetically pleasing backdrops to create the perfect composition.

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.

Photojournalistic Style – There is minimal involvement or direction from the Photographer with this style. Candid and documentary-style, you’ll end up with photos that tell a story.

Second-Shooter – Some Photographers will include a secondshooter 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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PHOTOGRAPHY

Artistic Photography Inc.

Genevieve Nisly Photography

BCR Studios by Brad

CLEVELAND PHOTO OPS

Genevieve Nisly Photography

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

Karen Menyhart Photography

Cleveland is full of amazing parks, architecture, and scenic backdrops. From the chandelier at Playhouse Square to the new Cleveland sign installations, and 4th Street to the Ohio City murals, there are so many gorgeous destinations for your wedding pictures!

As with every aspect of wedding planning, if you decide to make a pit stop around Cleveland to take advantage of its epic backdrops, you should be considerate of time, traffic conditions, parking, and pedestrians. You should also research beforehand to see if the site charges for admittance or photography rites. For more freedom and flexibility, you may want to consider having engagement photos taken at these fun locales, instead. This gives you much more time to travel, work out poses, find angles you like, and discover new photo destinations!

Karen Menyhart Photography

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PHOTOGRAPHY

BCR Studios by Brad

Genevieve Nisly Photography

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Black Dog Photo, Co.

LMAC Photography

Orchard Photography

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ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment Cost Range*: $800 to $10,000+

?

*Depends on the kind of Entertainment you hire

Questions ENTERTAINMENT

RECEPTION

t n e m n i a t Enter

Genevieve Nisly 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 • Confirm arrival times. You should expect them to arrive at least an hour in advance and plan on contracting them for at least four hours.

LOCAL

1. W ho will be performing?

2. How can I see you perform prior to my wedding?

3. Have you performed at my venue before?

Yes

No

4. Will there be an assistant to help?

Yes

6. How many hours will I have?

7. Do you require breaks?

Yes

No

8. Will you have music playing during breaks?

Yes

No

• 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.).

10. W ill you help structure the timeline?

ENTERTAINMENT VENDORS Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 5

Absolutely Unbelievable Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 137

Selective Sound Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 134

Celestial Strings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 141

Special Productions . . . . . . . . . . . p. 138

Cleveland Music Group . . . . . . . . . p. 66 Cleveland Sound & Visual . . . . . p. 145

Steven Vance Electric Violin & DJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 65

LO-KEY Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . p. 11

The Cavor Music Group . . . . . . . . p. 148

Marino Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 133

Today's Wedding Party . . . . . . . . p. 143

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

No

5. H ow much space will you need?

9. Do you emcee the reception?

A Crystal Clear Sound, Video, Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 142

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Be sure to ask these questions:

Introductions

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From making sure you have the perfect entrance song to keeping your guests dancing, your DJ, Band, or Musician will make sure everyone is having a good time.

Yes

No Yes

No

11. D o you provide a microphone for speeches and toasts?

Yes

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?

Yes Notes:

No

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 4 songs that you’ll remember forever. Choosing these sentimental songs can be intimidating, so we’ve chosen our top five faves for each.

Entrance

Father-Daughter Dance

• Can’t Stop the Feeling

• Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle • Stealing Cinderella by Chuck

by Justin Timberlake

• I Got a Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas

• The Way You Make Me Feel

by Michael Jackson

• Walk This Way by Aerosmith • Shut Up and Dance

by Walk the Moon

Wicks

• I Loved Her First by Heartland • Isn’t She Lovely by Stevie Wonder • Count on Me by Bruno Mars

Mother-Son Dance • Wind Beneath my Wings

by Bette Midler

First Dance • Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis

• Stand by Me by Ben E. King • Perfect by Ed Sheeran • Die a Happy Man by Thomas Rhett • Never Stop by SafetySuit

Must-Haves:

• My Wish by Rascal Flatts • A Song for Mama by Boyz II Men • I Will Always Love You

by Whitney Houston

• You Are the Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder

Do-Not-Play:

Alternatives

DANCE

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 bean-bag 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.

ey itn Wh

• 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.

M

ill er

, To day’s Bride

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ENTERTAINMENT

Band or DJ?

Make sure your dance floor is filled by choosing the right music. But first, who should play it?

Do you want to play mostly...

Current hits

A Good Mix

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

Do you like line dances like the Electric Slide?

Plenty of space

Not much room

They’re fine

The Heartlanders Co.

Classics& Oldies

Love them

SETTING THE

MOOd

Will you have other activities like a photo booth?

Yes

No, Just Dancing

The music you choose will set the entire mood of your reception. We’ve compiled lists of crowd-pleasing favorites from each genre to start planning your playlist with your DJ or Musician.

TRADITIONAL The Twist by Chubby Checker Shout by Otis Day and the Knights

How do you feel about concerts?

Love them!

What's Your Budget?

They're overRated

Unlimited

Strict

I Wanna Dance with Somebody

by Whitney Houston

How long will your reception last?

Celebration by Kool and the Gang Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey COUNTRY Cruise by Florida Georgia Line Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker or Old Crow Medicine Show

Flexible

Country Girl (Shake It For Me)

by Luke Bryan

1-3 hours

4-6 hours

You’re Still the One by Shania Twain Redneck Woman

by Gretchen Wilson

POP Single Ladies by Beyoncé Happy by Pharrell Williams Baby Got Back by Sir Mix-a-Lot I Want it That Way

by Backstreet Boys

Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars Orchard Photography

Band

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

Orchard Photography

DJ

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

ROCK You Shook Me All Night Long

by ACDC

White Wedding by Billy Idol Sweet Child O’ Mine

by Guns N' Roses

Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne Everything I Do by Bryan Adams

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ENTERTAINMENT

Our wedding and banquet venue accommodates up to 200 people

Let us help you celebrate your journey...

3249 Alabama Ave. North Lawrence, OH 44666 ph: 330.936.1266 peacockridge.com

PeacockRidgeAd_2018TodaysBrideAkron_halfpg.indd 1

4/20/18 12:18 PM

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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.

The ooth B o t o Ph 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 custom-made 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

?

Questions PHOTO BOOTH

Yes Yes

No

4. W ill you have a staff member working at the wedding?

No

5. Do guests get copies of the photos?

6. W ill I get copies of the photos?

7. D o you provide a scrapbook?

Yes Yes

Yes

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PHOTO BOOTHS

inFocus Photo Booth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 138 Tap Snap Photo Entertainment . . . . . . . p. 122

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

No Limit:

11. W hat customization can you offer?

Yes

13. W ill you close during dinner?

Notes:

No Yes

No Timeline:

12. D o you provide props?

No

No

8. Can the photos be posted to social media?

LOCAL

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

2. How much space do you need?

Yes

OTHER OPTIONS: Other options that may be available are GIF or video photo booths. While these photo 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!

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

1. What is the standard number of hours?

Yes

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 at no extra cost: one for your album and one for the guest.

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:

3. Have you worked at my venue before?

Orchard Photography

No

No Yes

No

PHOTO BOOTH

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WEDDING STATIONERY

y r e n o i t a t S g n i d d e W Cost Range*: $250 to $5,000+

*Cost range can vary due to number of guests

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

This card can include directions or your wedding website.

Invitations have become so much more than the standard “who,” “what,” “where,” and “when.” As the first indication of your wedding’s style, they set the tone for your guests’ expectations!

WHAT YOU WILL NEED GET STARTED WITH Engagement Party invitations Save-the-Date cards Bridal Shower thank you cards THE WEDDING INVITATION Invitation card

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

Guest Info card & Other Information card RSVP card Envelope to return RSVP

The inner envelope is a traditional way to bind all the elements of your invitation.

For a modern approach, use a belly band, instead!

Outer envelope Envelope liner

{

Inner envelope Belly band

AT THE WEDDING Ceremony program

Don't forget Postage!

Pre-addressing is convenient for guests.

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

?

Questions STATIONERY

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.

1. D o you offer custom design?

Yes

No

2. Do you offer handwritten calligraphy?

Yes

3. Can you help us with wording our invites?

STATIONERY DESIGNERS Paper Trails of Rocky River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 136 StreamlineCLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149

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

No

4. Do you also offer: Programs

Place cards

Menus

Thank you cards

5. H ow far in advance should I order?

LOCAL WEDDING

Yes

No

6. What does it cost to order more?

7. Can I order extra envelopes?

Notes:

Yes

No

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 guest‘s names on their RSVP card so they’ll know exactly who is invited and you’ll know who is attending.

Make copies of the invitation tracker below or use the information to make your own tracker. Rather record things digitally? Visit TodaysBride.com/guestlist for an excel sheet 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 a RSVP, this sheet will keep you organized and ensure that no one on your list is forgotten!

Name: Address:

City:

State:

Sent:

Save-the-Date

Number of people invited:

Ceremony

Zip: Reception

#Attending

Date Mailed: RSVPd: Shower Gift: Thank you sent Wedding Gift: Thank you sent

Invitation Etiquette DON’T dictate dress code. Include this information on your wedding website or spread the news via word-of-mouth.

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.

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.

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 and parents to come up with a final guest list.

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123 South Main Stre et

Impress your guests as soon as they open your invitation with a chic envelope liner!

Whether you choose a more casual plaid, glitter stripes, or metallic florals, this new trend will catch every guest’s eye.

pi te r

&

Ju

Ohio 44333

no

Ms. Rachel

Odie

Ju

Johnson Akron A comma is r e added after the Mill street name and an abbreviation For North, South, East, West is used n o r k if it comes after A the address.

North, South, East, West is written in full if it proceeds the street name.

Do not abbreviate titles like Doctor or Reverand.

Pushing the envelope + Pa

e

Use full names only, like Miss Rachel Johnson, not Miss Johnson.

rtne

Bo n

Abbreviating Mister and Misses to Mr. and Mrs. is acceptable.

rs

Bl iss &

WEDDING STATIONERY

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.

Doctor John

N.W. , t e e r t S Y R R 123 CHE Ohio 44333

Find more tips on your invitations on TodaysBride.com/Invitations!

br an

co p

rat a

Get it straight!

TheLet

aC Dan

terMat e.com

It’s in the mail 9 months Mail save-the-dates

1 year Begin guest list

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

6 weeks 4-6 months Order invitations

Mail invitations to local guests

10-12 months

6-9 months

8 weeks

Begin shopping and order Save-the-Date cards

Finalize guest list

Mail invitations to out-of-town guests

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

Oak & Orchid

Still worried about your handwriting?

Ask your stationery expert if they offer calligraphy services!

ag ubb

edd eW

ing

s

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!

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

4 weeks Mail thank you notes

SCORING: 1. A=0, B=2, C=1 2. A=1, B=2, C=0 3. A=2, B=0, C=1 4. A=2, B=1, C=0 5. A=0, B=2, C=1 6. A=2, B=0, C=1 7. A=2, B=0 C=1

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.

10-14 Points

YES!

5. Would you invite them over for dinner?

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!

B. They’re a friend.

A. If I was forced.

C. They’re a colleague.

B. Absolutely!

2. When 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. 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.

Celebrate Romance!

C. I was not invited.

C. I don’t really know.

WEDDING STATIONERY

Be Our Guest! Or not?

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.

AT GERVASI VINEYARD ™

Be United!

the perfect setting for both outdoor and indoor weddings Choose from a stunning outdoor Pavilion with breathtaking vineyard and lake views, or an elegant ballroom in the Villa Grande for smaller intimate weddings.

Lakeside Ceremonies • Wedding Receptions Private Events & Parties Overnight Stays in Tuscan-Inspired Villa Suites

G V Destinations

G E RVA S I V I N E YA R D . CO M • C A N TO N , O H

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WEDDING STATIONERY

Looks weLove

Pink Umbrella

Pink Umbrella

Jeneze Designs Wedding Invitation

Blanche Paperie

Pink Umbrella

Paper Trails of Rocky River

Need more inspiration for your wedding stationery? Visit TodaysBride.com/invitations 84

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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

?

Questions HONEYMOON

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

No

4. What travel services can you book?

Cruises

Flights

Car Rental

Hotel

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?

Notes:

Currency exchange

Travel insurance

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

TRAVEL EXPERTS

Don’t Forget The List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 J Sullivan Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 88

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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HONEYMOON

DON'T FORGET TO PACK There’s nothing worse than forgetting something essential after traveling hundreds of miles from home. Here are a few things you might not have thought to pack, but definitely should! dapters for outlets if A you’re traveling abroad Currency Passport Language dictionary Guidebook Contraception I nternational phone plan

edicine like antacid, M pain relievers, motion sickness prevention, antihistamine lastic bags for dirty or P wet clothes

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?

ackpack for day exB cursions

7days

Reusable water bottle

+

Feminine products

Do you plan on buying a lot of souvenirs?

lor Tay

rv

Ja

Whatever you do, don’t wait until the last minute to pack. Having everything organized and ready to go is just one more thing you can check off your to-do list and will be a huge relief to you.

is ,

Tod ay

’s Bride

no

yes

6

days

or less

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!

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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!

HONEYMOON

Passport

When to get your before

4 months

3 weeks

Wedding

2 weeks

4-6 weeks

Apply for passport

Get Marriage License

Celebrate!

Apply for a name change

Submit your passport amendment application

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.

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.

after

U .S. State Department's Form DS-11 (application) pptform.state.gov P roof of citizenship (original Certified Birth Certificate, naturalization records, citizenship records, previous passport) P roof of identity (driver’s license, military id, social security card) 2 ”x2” passport photograph. Some post offices will do this for you or you can go to a drug store to get a photo taken.

10 years Renew your passport

Do you need a Visa?

While a US passport allows you to leave and re-enter the United States, some countries require a tourist visa to enter their country.

You are required to submit your visa application to the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you’ll be traveling to 10-14 days before your departure date.

Note that applications must be submitted in-person or via a travel or visa service as mailed applications are not accepted. Not sure if you need a visa to travel to your destination? Your travel agent should be able to tell you about any necessary travel documents or check the list of popular destinations below.

POPULAR DESTINATIONS THAT REQUIRE A VISA: Australia • Brazil • China • Egypt • India • Indonesia Kenya • Russia • Thailand • Turkey • Venezuela • Vietnam

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HONEYMOON

Destination Weddings

Planning a destination wedding? It’s important to arm yourself with a team who is experienced in planning from afar. That means a destination wedding planner and a travel agent! They both play a big role in making sure your 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: 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. From the flights and hotels to transportation to and from the wedding, you’ll feel safe knowing your guests are taken care of. A wedding planner will handle guest accommodations, making sure their rooms are satisfactory, the activities are scheduled, and handle any crises that may arise.

Courtney Marie Photography

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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!

HONEYMOON

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Real Weddings Orchard Photography

Before you dive into these stunning Real Weddings, we’d like to remind you that they all began with a couple, their love, and a vision. Use these love stories, the artistic photography, and the beautiful inspiration as a guide to creating the wedding of your dreams.

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Anna & Fady SEPTEMBER 30 • CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY:

ORCHARD PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Catering, Guest Accommodations, & Reception Location: Renaissance Cleveland Entertainment: Cleveland Music Group Invitations: Paper Trails of Rocky River Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Rentals: Party Décor Tuxedos: Jos. A. Bank Clothier Videography: Just Perfect Video

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Ellie & Mark APRIL 1 • CANTON PHOTOGRAPHY:

GENEVIEVE NISLY PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Catering, Ceremony Location, & Reception Location: Glenmoor Country Club Ceremony & Reception Entertainment: Cleveland Music Group Guest Accommodations: Bertram Inn at Glenmoor Country Club Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Rentals: L'Nique Specialty Linen Rental, Sitting Pretty Linens Wedding Planner: Always Eventful...Events by Tricia Dever

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Erica & Kimberly NOVEMBER 18 • CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY:

KAREN MENYHART PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridal Gowns, Bridesmaids' Gowns, & Alterations: David's Bridal Entertainment: Cleveland Music Group Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Transportation: A-1 Mr.Limo Tuxedos: Men's Wearhouse

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Alecia & David SEPTEMBER 30 • ROOTSTOWN PHOTOGRAPHY:

JADIE FOTO

Local vendors who made it happen:

Caterer & Reception Location: The NEW Center at NEOMED University Ceremony Location: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Guest Accommodations: Kent State Hotel & Conference Center Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Tuxedos: Men's Wearhouse Videography: Elite Entertainment

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Lindsey & David MAY 28 • EASTLAKE PHOTOGRAPHY:

THE CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHIC CO. Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridal Gowns: The Winner Entertainment & Photo Booth: Marino Brothers Transportation: A-1 Mr. Limo Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond

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Jessica &Jimmy SEPTEMBER 16 • WILLOUGHBY PHOTOGRAPHY:

BCR STUDIOS BY BRAD Local vendors who made it happen:

Alterations & Bridal Gown: Galleria Gowns Entertainment: Billy J Full Spectrum Entertainment Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Transportation: A-1 Mr.Limo Tuxedos: American Commodore Tuxedo Videography & Photo Booth: BCR Studios by Brad

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Allison & Jacob AUGUST 12 • CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY:

LMAC PHOTOGRAPHY Local vendors who made it happen:

Catering, Decor, Guest Accommodations, & Reception Location: Crowne Plaza at Cleveland Playhouse Square Alterations: Liliana Bridal House Bridal Gown: Radiant Bride Bridesmaids' Gowns: CLE Bride by Expressions Invitations: RSVP and Company Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Tuxedos: Jos. A Bank & Clothiers

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Stephanie & Gordon AUGUST 26 • CLEVELAND PHOTOGRAPHY:

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

Alterations, Accessories, Bridal Gown, Bridesmaids’ Gowns, & Wedding Dress Preservation: David’s Bridal Registry: Bed Bath & Beyond Transportation, Travel Agent, & Tuxedos: Roy's Travel, Tux, and Limo

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Amanda & Scott MAY 20 • AKRON PHOTOGRAPHY:

B. FROHMAN IMAGING & DESIGN Local vendors who made it happen:

Bridal Gown: Doreen Leaf Designs Ceremony Location: Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Guest Accommodations: Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls Reception Location: Portage Country Club Tuxedos: Jos. A Bank Clothiers

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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/Cle18 Participant will get access to 5 Today’s Bride shows from the time of survey submission.

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 AUGUST 26, 2018

OCTOBER 14, 2018

JANUARY 13, 2019

JANUARY 26 & 27, 2019

John S. Knight Center Downtown Akron

Embassy Suites – Rockside Independence

John S. Knight Center Downtown Akron

I-X Center Cleveland

VISIT TODAYSBRIDE.COM FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS AND MORE DATES.

WINTER

WINTER Weddings

Winter weddings get a bad reputation. It’s the time of staying inside, snuggling up by a fire, and refusing to watch anything other than Hallmark.

But winter is also full of wonderful holidays and reasons to celebrate. Why not add your wedding to the list? Just like snowflakes, every love story is one-of-a-kind. What better time to celebrate your unique love than in winter? It may not seem like the most obvious choice, but with winter being the most dominant season in Ohio, why not embrace it? These benefits will have you believing in the magic of winter weddings.

Karen Menyhart Photography

Cory Ryan Photography

The Heartlanders Co.

Rising Star Photography

Cory Ryan Photography

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jadie foto

Genevieve Nisly Photography

WINTER

Genevieve Nisly Photography

Artistic Photography Inc.

Rising Star Photography

The Heartlanders Co.

Cory Ryan Photography

Karen Menyhart Photography

The Heartlanders Co.

The Heartlanders Co.

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WINTER

• Your date is more likely to be available. When you’re looking at venues, it can be nerve-wracking finding out whether or not your preferred date is available. If you don’t book a year or so in advance, you may have to choose another day or even month! Because winter weddings aren’t as popular, you won’t have to fight against another couple over dates.

• Off-season typically means lower rates. Most wedding vendors aren’t too busy November through February and are looking to fill their dates. Oftentimes, they’ll lower their rates during the winter months in order to garner more interest. Take advantage of these savings with a winter wedding.

Karen Menyhart Photography

Genevieve Nisly Photography

• It’s a great time to see your family. Your family may already be in town for the holidays. By hosting a winter wedding, you’ll be saving them an extra trip! If they didn’t plan on visiting for Christmas, New Year’s, or Valentine’s Day, your wedding will give them a reason to.

• Save money on decor. If you choose to get married around Christmas or New Years, you may not have to worry about – or spend much money on – decor! Most venues will have decorations up – we’re talking pine trees with twinkly lights, wreaths, poinsettias, garland, crackling fires, and more. Dress your table in white, red, or gold linens, add a centerpiece, and voila! Your decor is complete.

The Heartlanders Co.

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Karen Menyhart Photography

• You’ll end up with stunning photos. Working with – or should we say against – the sun can be quite difficult for Photographers. A cloudy winter day offers the perfect muted light for photos. Plus, with snowcapped trees and a freshly blanketed ground, your pictures will stand out among the dozens of spring/summer weddings. And after looking through this spread of photos, you really can’t deny how gorgeous winter weddings can be.

WINTER

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?

FLOWERS

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

Questions FLOWERS

With the different varieties and colors, choosing just one bouquet to fit your style and theme is nearly impossible! Choosing the right Wedding Florist will ensure that your flowers are consistent, in-season, and exactly how you imagined.

Questions to ask:

1. W hen do I need to order flowers?

2. Do you have a portfolio?

Yes

No

3. H ave you ever done wedding flowers before?

Yes

No

4. What flower decor options do you offer?

Vases

Candle Holders

Ceremony

Arches

Cake

Centerpieces

Pedestals

Crown

Other: 5. D o you work with:

Fresh Flowers

Silk Flowers

6. What kind of flowers do you recommend?

7. What is your substitution policy?

8. Is there a charge for delivery?

Yes

No

9. W ho will set up the day of my wedding?

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

Yes

No

11. W ill you transfer the flowers between the venues?

Yes

No

12. When do decor items need to be returned?

13. W hat is your policy for lost or damaged items?

The Heartlanders Co.

14. D o you do floral preservation?

Yes

15. W hen should I preserve my bouquet?

Notes:

LOCAL

FLORAL DESIGNERS

Forest Woods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139 Timeless Moments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 141

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No

FLOWERS

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FLOWERS

Ken Love Photography

Alison Conklin Photogrphy

Bouquets Nikia Williams Photogrphy

BEAUTIFUL

Georgia de Lotz–Unsplash

Black Dog Photo Co. Brklyn View Photography

Daniel Lee – Unsplash

Genevieve Nisly Photography

FLOWERS BY SEASON

Shea Christine Photography

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!

Sunflower

Peony

Moss

Zinnia

Ranunculus

Aster

Lilac

Step aside, greenery. Moss is taking over!

The vibrant green of this plant matches any theme and is the perfect addition to your ceremony or reception decor!

Ranunculus

Lisianthus

FLOWERS

Trend ForEcast

Delphinium

Tulip

Calla Lily

Calla Lily

Spring

Feather and Twine Photography

Lisianthus

Summer Wreaths/Hoops Draped across the bride and groom’s chairs, hanging at the entrance to the reception, or held by the bridesmaids, wreaths aren’t just for December anymore.

Carnation

Asiatic Lily

Gardenia

Chrysanthemum Delphinium Cosmos

Orchid Lilies Camellia Anemone

FALL

Rustic White Phtography

Dahlia

Protea

WINTER

This tropical flower is the center-of-attention in any summer bouquet! If you want a show-stopping, dramatic arrangement, add this Hawaiian favorite.

Flowers and Their Meanings

Daisy = Innocence

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

Monochrome

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

Brklyn View Photography

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!

rn ,

Tod ay’s Bride

While a bit of color adds dimension, the impact of a single-color bouquet is quite impressive. White flowers with greenery has taken the lead as a favorite because of it’s versatility.

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DECOR

Decor Adore we

Genevieve Nisly Photography

FINDING YOUR STYLE How do I go about choosing my theme/style?

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. If you both love to read, you could incorporate books into your centerpieces.

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 where 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!

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

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.

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.

DECOR TO CONSIDER Linens

Dishes

Lighting

Furniture

Flowers

Ice Sculptures

Candles

Tents

Signage

Dance Floor

Notes:

LOCAL DECOR

& RENTAL COMPANIES AAble Rents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 All Occasions Party Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 87 Elegant Ice Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 117 L'Nique Specialty Linen Rentals . . . . . . . . . . p. 111 Nonna's Little Secret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 134 Reliable Onsite Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . p. 119

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

DECOR Bob&Dawn Photography

Genevieve Nisly Photography

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

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.

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

BCR Studios by Brad

a nM

ICE, ICE... BABY!

J oa

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!

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

Black Dog Photo, Co.

le y,

Tod ay’s Bride

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DECOR

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

LovelyLinens Rising Star Photography

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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!

sashes on chairs. After perusing through rental warehouses or online galleries, ask your rental company if they’ll be setting the linens up or if they can teach you how to properly execute the look!

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

Your guests will spend a lot of time at their tables. Make sure they have something worth looking at by choosing lovely linens!

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 pillars will add an effortlessly chic look to your venue.

DECOR

?

Questions LINEN

Tie everything together with tablecloths, napkins, and chair covers that match or complement your color scheme.

Questions to ask: 1. Do you offer?

Sashes

Chair Covers

Napkins

Other

Tablecloths

2. Have you worked with my venue before?

Yes

No

3. How 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. Will 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

rapery for decor or D backdrops

Chair cover

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DECOR

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

lighting DECORATING WITH

?

Questions LIGHTING

Studio Impressions Photography

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:

1. What kind of lighting options do you offer?

2. Will you help with the design options?

3. Can you match the lighting to our colors?

4. Have you worked at my venue before?

Yes Yes Yes

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

Yes

No No No No

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

7. Do you own your own equipment?

8. How much space do you need?

9. How do you hide cables?

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Yes

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

Genevieve Nisly Photography

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 individually or in a bundle.

The vintage tone will cast an inviting and warm hue at your reception.

DECOR

cover with fabric for a muted backdrop. Wrap them around trees or pillars. The possibilities are endless!

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 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

Cake Cost Range: $1.50 per slice to $10+ per slice

! e k a c t a e s ' t e L 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.

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.

3. Traditionally, the top tier of your wedding cake is kept frozen and eaten as a celebration on your first anniversary. Some cake shops may provide a box or wrapping for the top tier, so be sure to ask if this is included or an extra cost.

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

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.

LOCAL

BAKERIES

Colozza's Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 135 Nothing Bundt Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 Rito's Italian Bakery & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 122 Cake Ink

Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

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3. Can you match my colors?

46-48 TOTAL SERVINGS

?

84-86 TOTAL SERVINGS

+54-56 GUESTS 84-86 TOTAL SERVINGS

Fresh Flowers

From layers of heavenly flavors to crumbly cookies, your sweet confections are sure to leave your guests satisfied.

For a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, add fresh flowers! Ask your florist to coordinate with your baker so the design matches your bouquet!

Slice

Tier

9. Do you offer cake accessories?

Cake Topper

Decorative Knife

10. D o you offer other options?

Yes

No

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

Cookies

Pastries

Cupcakes

Other 11. C an you provide a box/wrapping for the Yes

No

12. W hen do I need to order?

Foil Whether artistically placed or covering an entire tier, edible foil makes any traditional cake modern! Choose from silver, gold, rose gold, or copper.

No Fee:

prepared?

7. Do you provide cake-cutting services?

13. I s there a delivery or set-up charge?

Yes

No Fee:

14. W hen will the cake be delivered/set up?

Just Iced & J Wells Photography

6. How far in advance are the cakes

Notes:

Cake Ink

+38-40 GUESTS

top of the cake?

Yes

For a one-of-a-kind cake, opt for a hand-painted fondant. Watercolor, florals, and abstract metallic strokes are some of our favorite designs!

8. A re cakes charged by the slice or tier?

4. What flavors do you offer?

Yes

Hand-Painted

Cake Ink

No

+24-26 GUESTS

14"

2. Are your designs customizable?

Yes

22-24 TOTAL SERVINGS

12"

1. Do you have a cake portfolio?

No

+12-14 GUESTS

10"

Here are questions you should ask:

Yes

10 TOTAL SERVINGS

8"

Questions CAKE

+10 GUESTS

6"

JazzyMae Photography

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 serve 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!

No Fee:

Sometimes your caterer will offer this service.

15. A re you familiar with my venue?

Yes

No

Torn Paper This creative new trend is abstract and oh-so-romantic! The layered, raw edges make this the perfect design for a vintage or whimsical wedding theme!

CAKES

Trend ForEcast

How big of a cake do I need?

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CAKES

Rising Star Photography

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

! t e e w S 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.

Rising Star Photography

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.

Genevieve Nisly Photography

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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!

CAKES

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CAKES

inspiration CAKE

De la Creme Creative Studio Heidi Moore Holmon Photography

Kake by Darci Julia Marie Cakes

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CAKES

De la Creme Creative Studio Heidi Moore Holmon Photography

Cake Ink

Kake by Darci

Rebekah Naomi Cake Design

Tyler Branch Photography

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 but a smooth F 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.

er

Fr

Cake Ink

is e Den

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.

ic ks ,

Today Bride ’s

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TRANSPORTATION

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

TRANSPORTATION

?

Questions TRANSPORTATION

Ken Love Photography

Need a ride?

Though you want a dramatic getaway, there are a lot more details to consider when booking your transportation!

From limos to classic cars, you can be sure that you'll arrive to your wedding in style.

Questions to ask:

1. A re 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?

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.

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 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.

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.

6. How far in advance should I book?

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!

8. W hat is the minimum number of hours?

Your wedding gifts need a ride home. Since you didn’t drive to the

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

PROFESSIONALS

BVIP Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149

Yes

4. W hat is your vehicle substitution policy?

5. W ho will be the chauffeur?

7. What does your insurance cover?

9. Is there an overtime fee?

Statement Limousine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 127 Western Reserve Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 62

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Yes

No

10. W hat kind of decorating can we do?

11. W hat is your policy on eating and drinking?

12. W hat type of music players are in the vehicle?

Lake Erie Limo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 77 Shima Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 108

No

Notes:

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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? Note that the ceremony departure and the reception departure 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 or hotel. You’ve probably also had numerous visions of you and your new spouse riding off in the backseat of a vintage car or driving a sleek sports car. 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 want to hire two different vehicles.

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 4-6 hours. This will ensure you have enough time to get from the ceremony to the reception, enjoy dinner and dancing, and depart your reception.

Note that if you plan to go to a separate photo location between the ceremony and reception, you’ll have to add at least another hour and a half to the contract.

Ross Harvey

How far are you traveling?

When choosing a vehicle, consider the distance between your ceremony location and your reception site. If they’re more than 10 minutes apart or you have to get on a highway, quaint vehicles like a vintage bike or a horse drawn carriage aren’t practical. You should also consider the path you’ll take, as serpentine roads and party bus dancing are ingredients for a disaster.

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.

Tips to Remember 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, here are a few things you should keep 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.

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ol eW Kat

3. Demands for limos go up around prom season, so consider choosing an alternative vehicle if you’re having a spring wedding.

fr am

, T oday’s Bride

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FAVORS

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: Caricature 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 is often left behind. Thanks to lighters, why does a guest need a box of matches with your names and wedding date?

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

GIVE THIS: Hangover Kit Put together small packages including items like Advil, water bottles, saltine crackers, Pepto Bismol, and Vitamin B. While this is only useful to the adults at your reception, they’ll definitely appreciate this favor come morning.

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.

Black Dog Photo, Co.

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 has a green thumb 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: Late-Night Snack Soft-pretzels from a food truck, handcut French fries, or containers 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: Coasters Unless your favors are local, hand-painted, or ceramic coasters, your favors will end up forgotten in junk drawers, never to be used.

GIVE THIS: Luggage Tags The success of this favor depends on how you personalize it. Instead of putting your name, hashtag, or wedding date, put a romantic quote like “And so the adventure begins” or “Veni Vidi Amavi – We came, We saw, We loved” – generic enough for all your guests to love and use!

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: Cookies A sugar cookie personalized to look like a bride and groom or intertwining hearts is not only cute, but delicious!

Another option, let your guests choose their own toppings with a cookie bar!

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 CREATORS

Favors For You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 MK Sweets Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 BCR Studios by Brad

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Find more local vendors at TodaysBride.com

FAVORS

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PRE-WEDDING PARTIES

! e r e h t t os m l A What’s Left...

Have a bridal shower

You’ve spent the past several months planning the event of your life, and the day is almost here! With less than three months 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."

BUSINESSES FOR PRE-WEDDING PARTIES LOCAL

Coastal Taco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 119 Crop Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 57 Nautica Queen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143 Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 127 Check out other Venues on page 42.

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H ave a bachelor/ bachelorette party

Mail wedding invitations Collect RSVPs B uy gifts Bridal Party Groom Out-of-Town Guests

pply for your Marriage A License

Plan seating arrangements Ceremony Reception Plan rehearsal dinner G ive final guest count to Caterer Break-in wedding shoes

Write your vows

Have a final dress fitting

inalize wedding day-of F timeline and details with your:

H ave your final hair and makeup trial

Wedding Planner Venues Officiant Decide on

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

PRE-WEDDING PARTIES

Your 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

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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PRE-WEDDING PARTIES

Share this with your bridesmaids!

BACHELORETTE

Party Keep the Bride’s Interests in Mind

Timing is Everything

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 ceremony and reception, too!

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 invite.

The Element of Surprise Given all the planning the couple has put into the details of 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!

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 associate 134

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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!

PRE-WEDDING PARTIES

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Vows

WRITING VOWS

writing

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. Don’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. If you get stuck, walk away from it to clear your head.

4. Practice 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.

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SHOULD YOU WRITE PERSONAL OR USE TRADITIONAL VOWS? PERSONAL VOWS

TRADITIONAL VOWS

You have an epic or unexpected love story

You’re not known for your writing skills

You want to reflect on your relationship in the months leading up to your wedding

You hate public speaking

You value individuality and will have a unique wedding

You value tradition

You want to acknowledge specific promises like “I vow to accept every dog you adopt… even when we have 36.”

You want to make sure the sacred marital promises are recognized and agreed upon.

You want to ugly cry.*

You want to ugly cry*

*There’s no getting out of that. Whether you’re listening to your fiancé read his/her heartfelt personalized vows or reciting that you’ll love him/her ‘til death do you part, you can’t escape the ugly cry.

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

WRITING VOWS

VOW TEMPLATE .

FUN FACT ABOUT YOUR FIANCÉ

ways, the more

The more I got to know you and your 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

. 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. home where

I can't wait to build a family and a ADJECTIVE

and

our child(ren) will learn what ADJECTIVE

ADJECTIVE

, and I can’t

really look like. You make me feel EMOTION

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

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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 42.

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

Questions

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. W hat is the minimum number of rooms that I can block?

3. How much do the rooms cost?

4. W hat does the rate include?

5. When do you release the rooms?

6. Do we have to pay for unused rooms?

Yes

7. Can we put gift bags in our guests' rooms?

8. Do you have a honeymoon suite?

Yes

Yes No

9. Do you provide a shuttle?

Airport

Reception Site

10. What amenities do you offer?

Notes:

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No

Ceremony Site

No

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

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THE REHEARSAL

The

Rehearsal

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-oftown guests the night before the wedding.

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 soon-to-be spouses. The groom then follows with a toast to his bride and her parents. You should make sure that 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.

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THE REHEARSAL

?

Questions REHEARSAL & DINNER

Erase any wedding day nerves by planning a ceremony and dinner rehearsal.

Ceremony:

1. What time will the rehearsal begin?

2. How long will the rehearsal take?

3. Who should come to the rehearsal?

Dinner: 4. How many can you seat?

5. Do you have a special menu for rehearsal dinners?

Yes

No

6. How many servers will you provide?

7. Can you accommodate special dietary needs?

Yes

No

8. Is there a bar?

Full

Limited

No

Notes:

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The Heartlanders Co.

MARRIAGE LICENSE

Marriage License Basics

If you’re an Ohio resident, apply for your To apply for your license, you marriage license in the county you live in, not and your fiancé will need: the county in which you’ll be getting married.

Birth Certificate For out-of-state residents, apply in the county Photo ID where your ceremony will take place. Because some counties have a waiting period or slow P roof of Citizenship/ turn-around, you should apply a few weeks Residency early. Not too early, though; if a license is not D eath Certificate if used within 60 days, it will expire. widowed Once you have signed your license, your Offi Divorce Decree if divorced ciant will be a witness and then send it to the P ayment for fees Marriage License Bureau to be authorized.

– see below You should request at least three certified copies (raised seal) to change your name.

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

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

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

MEDINA COUNTY • 330-725-9703 93 Public Square, Medina Hours: 8am-4pm M-F • Fee: $62 cash only

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

PORTAGE COUNTY • 330-297-3871 203 W. Main St., 2nd Floor, Ravenna Hours: 8am-3:30pm M-F • Fee: $57 cash, money order

GEAUGA COUNTY • 440-279-1830 231 Main St., Suite 200, Chardon Hours: 8am-4:15pm M-F Fee: $74 cash, cashier's check, money order

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

HURON COUNTY • 419-668-4383 2 E. Main St., Room 106, Norwalk Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $57 cash,

SUMMIT COUNTY • 330-643-2346 209 S. High St., Akron • Hours: 8am-4pm M-F Fee: $50 cash, credit w/ 3% fee, check

credit w/$2.00 fee

LAKE COUNTY • 440-350-2168 25 North Park Pl., W. Annex Building, Painesville Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F • Fee: $62 cash only

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

Please call ahead, this information is subject to change.

Changing your Name

Your social security card and driver’s license are the first things you should address when changing your name. Make sure to request a few certified copies of your Marriage License to bring to the BMV and send to the Social Security Administration.

Other places you’ll need to change your name: B ank Accounts

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U tilities

M ail Subscriptions

D octors

V oter Registration

I nsurance

E mployer Records

S ocial Media

P assport* *Passports take about 4-6 weeks to process and the names on your plane ticket and passport must match.

Learn more about passports on page 88.

MARRIAGE LICENSE

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The Heartlanders Co.

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.

Orchard 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.

B. Frohman Imaging + Design

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.

Genevieve Nisly 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.

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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:

Bride's Checklist

SKIN Makeup Face Wash & Moisturizer Makeup Remover Brushes Perfume Mirror Tissues Tweezers Cotton Balls & Swabs Lip Balm 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 and 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/print

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

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VENDOR PHONE NUMBERS

Parents: Bridal Shop

Guest Accommodations

Cake & Desserts

Makeup Artist

Caterer

Men's Attire Shop

Ceremony Musician

Officiant

Ceremony Site

Photo Booth

Decor/Rentals

Photographer

DJ/Band

Reception Venue

Flowers

Transportation

Hair Stylist

Videographer

Lighting

Wedding Planner

Linen Rentals

Wedding Stationery

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

Mallorca Restaurant /Brasa Grill The Cavor Music Group www.MallorcaCleveland.com 216-687-9494

www.TheCavorMusicGroup.com 216-315-0919

The atmosphere of your wedding should represent the uniqueness of your personality. Host your Reception, Bridal Shower, or Rehearsal Dinner at Cleveland’s most flavorful dining experience.

With explosive energy in vocal and instrumental classics from the 80s' to today as well as spicing things up with their own originals, The Cavor Music Group has been a mainstay on the Cleveland music & wedding scene for over 10 years.

Favors For You

Cleveland Fitness Club

MK Sweets Co.

Specializing in unique, handcrafted edible event favors for special occasions, we also create and design beautiful candy/dessert stations that will enhance any event. Let us design your themed parties and corporate events.

We are a health club with 66,000 square feet of fitness space. Personal training, childcare, basketball and racquetball, group fitness, an indoor track, a pool with sauna, steam room, and a women’s only room. Check us out for special bridal discounts!

Both beautiful and delicious, our cookies are the perfect sweet treat to serve as a customized favor or at a dessert bar for your bridal shower, bachelorette party, or wedding!

www.facebook.com/FavorsForYouDyane 216-390-1104

www.clevelandfitnessclub.com 440-886-4545

www.MKSweets.Co 216-309-0929

Reliable Onsite – Restroom Trailers Don’t Forget The List www.superiorportables.com/weddings-parties 330-733-9000

www.dontforgetthelist.com 330-421-3980

The Heartlanders Co.

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

DFTL, your Elite Travel Planners! We specialize in Surprise Travel and Bucket List Experiences, perfect for honeymoons and bachelor(ette) parties!

Wherever your surprise destination takes you, we’ve taken care of all of the details!

Serving Ohio + the Midwest. Documentary, emotional, meaningful. We are a collective of passionate wedding videographers & photographers.

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www.theheartlandersco.com 216-586-2296

Always Eventful...Events by Tricia Dever StreamlineCLE www.alwayseventful.com 330-244-0613

www.streamlinecle.com 216-264-1104

As your Wedding Planner, we believe this is YOUR event and we will simply assist you in every way possible! We will not dictate your decisions. We will provide “flexible involvement” so that you will never be overwhelmed or frustrated!

The music will fade, the flowers will die, and the food will be devoured, but your stationery will serve as a keepsake that will last a lifetime! Let us help make your big day’s first impression one that will wow your guests!

Rising Star Photography

The Hotel at Oberlin

A two-lead photographer team formed in 2002, our passion is to provide a wedding day that is natural, romantic, visionary and most importantly…fun! No time restraints, ownership of ALL your pictures, and a realistic rate.

Provocative design – remarkable events – Let our team help you create the wedding of a lifetime.

www.RisingStarPhoto.com 440-590-0395

www.thehotelatoberlin.com 440-775-7001

AUGUST 26, 2018 John S. Knight Center • Akron

OCTOBER 14, 2018

Embassy Suites – Rockside • Independence

JANUARY 13, 2019

John S. Knight Center • Akron

BVIP Limousine Service www.bviplimo.com 330-725-3108

JANUARY 26 & 27, 2019

JazzyMae Photography

I-X Center • Cleveland

www.jazzymaephotography.com 216-280-5851

BVIP Limousine can accommodate any size party You won’t want to forget a moment of your and is backed by years of experience! We service wedding day! Capture every smile shared between over 350 weddings per year. We have sedans, lim- your family, friends, and loved ones forever. ousines, SUVs, party buses, and shuttle buses.

CHECK TODAYSBRIDE.COM FOR ADDITIONAL DATES & DISCOUNTED TICKETS

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VENDOR INDEX Beauty Cleveland Fitness Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 jodidoeshair.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 92 Manifest Beauty Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139 WOW Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 59

Bridal Attire Alterations Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 1 American Commodore Dress Shoppe . . . . . . p. 29 CLE Bride by Expressions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 31 Cleveland Wedding Gown Preservation . . . p. 145 David's Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131 Doreen Leaf Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 38 Galleria Gowns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 13 Koda Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 91 Lavender Bridal Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 21 Liliana Bridal House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 23 Lola's Bridal Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 81 The Flawless Bride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 85

Ken Love Photography

Vera's Ladies Apparel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 152

Catering

Cake & Favors

Catering by Verba's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 135

Colozza's Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 135 Favors For You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 MK Sweets Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 Nothing Bundt Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 Rito's Italian Bakery & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 122

Famous Dave's Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143

Flowers Forest Woods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139 Timeless Moments Flower Preservation . . . . p. 141

Old Carolina Barbecue Company . . . . . . . . . . p. 137

Decor & Rentals AAble Rents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 All Occasions Party Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 87

Honeymoon Don’t Forget The List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 J Sullivan Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 88

L'Nique Specialty Linen Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 111

Ice Sculptures

Nonna's Little Secret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 134

Elegant Ice Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 117

Reliable Onsite Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 119

Men's Attire American Commodore Tuxedo . . . Inside Front Cover

Entertainment

Boumadi's Clothiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 51

Absolutely Unbelievable Entertainment . . . p. 137

Men's Wearhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 90

Celestial Strings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 141

Photo Booth

Cleveland Music Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 66 Cleveland Sound & Visual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 145 LO-KEY Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 11

inFocus Photobooths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 138 Tap Snap Photo Booth Entertainment . . . . p. 122

Marino Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 133 Rock The House Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 5 Selective Sound Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . p. 134 Special Productions, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 138 Steven Vance Electric Violin & DJ . . . . . . . . . . . p. 65 The Cavor Music Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148 Today's Wedding Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143

Artistic Photography Inc. Orchard Photography

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Photography A Crystal Clear Sound, Video, Photo . . . . . . . p. 142 Artistic Photography Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 133 B. Frohman Imaging + Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 71 BCR Studios by Brad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 56 BellaLegacy Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143 Black Dog Photo Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 116 Cirino Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 135 Courtney Marie Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 141 Genevieve Nisly Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 63 Jadie Foto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 103 JazzyMae Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149 Karen Menyhart Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 67 Ken Love Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 129 LMAC Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 123 Made to Create Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131 McNair Photographic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 145 Orchard Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 79 Pulsart Media Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 137 Rising Ashes Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 139 Rising Star Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149 The Cleveland Photographic Co. . . . . . . . . . . p. 109 The Heartlanders Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148

Transportation BVIP Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149 Lake Erie Limo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 77 The Cleveland Photographic Co.

Venues

Shima Limousine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 108 Statement Limousine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 127

700 Beta Banquet & Conference Center . . . p. 109

Hofbrauhaus Cleveland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 75

A Taste of Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 3

LaCentre Conference & Banquet Center

Ahern Catering & Banquet Center . . . . . . . . . p. 142

Landoll's Mohican Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 55

Western Reserve Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . p. 62

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Ariel International Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 39

La-Vera Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 7

Ariel Pearl Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 39

Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 47

Bertram Inn & Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . p. 89

Mallorca Restaurant /Brasa Grill . . . . . . . . . . . p. 148

Brennan's Catering & Banquet Center . . . . . p. 85

Nautica Queen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 143

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo - Stillwater . . . . . . p. 9

New Orleans Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 136

Club Motor Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 87

Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila . . . . . . . . . p. 127

Coastal Taco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 119

Peacock Ridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 77

Country Lakes Party Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 145

Quail Hollow Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 140

Crop Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 57

Residence Inn / Emerald Event Center . . . . . p. 37

Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 48

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DoubleTree Lakeside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 111

Rustic Hills Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 67

Videography

Elegant Assets Historical Event Center . . . . p. 139

Signature of Solon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Elite Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 65

Embassy Suites Beachwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 79

The Cleveland Agora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 92

Embassy Suites Cleveland Rockside . . . . . . . p. 103

The Historic Onesto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 33

Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 123

The Hotel at Oberlin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149

Fox Meadow Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Metropolitan at the 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 43

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Inside Back Cover

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The Lakehouse Inn & Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 59

JazzyMae Photography

Wedding Planners Always Eventful...Events by Tricia Dever . . . p. 149 Dream Weddings & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131 Elegant Events by Maria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 140 Miraj International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 15

Gervasi Vineyard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 83

The Union Club of Cleveland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 63

Glenmoor Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 91

Tudor Arms a DoubleTree Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 65

Wedding Stationery

Great Lakes Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 131

Weymouth Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Paper Trails of Rocky River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 136

Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown . . p. 128

Woodside Event Center at St. Michaels . . . . . p. 49

StreamlineCLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 149

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