Sourcebook
Sourcebook
Fall 2024
Published by:
Technigraphics / CJC|creative P.O. Box 916, West Springfield, MA 01090 (413) 737-1152
Publisher: Jim Powers jim@weddingsourcebook.com
Editor: Lisa Powers lisa@weddingsourcebook.com
Distribution
Distributed at no charge to locations in the Greater Springfield area, including but not limited to: Agawam, Amherst, Belchertown, Brimfield, Chicopee, Deerfield, Easthampton, East Longmeadow, Enfield, Feeding Hills, Granby, Hampden, Holyoke, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Monson, Northampton, Palmer, Somers, Southampton, Southwick, South Hadley, Springfield, Sturbridge, Suffield, Three Rivers, Westfield, West Springfield, and Wilbraham.
Look for a new Sourcebook issue at your local public library, bridal shops, florists, bakeries, banks, and many other locations, including our advertiser’s businesses.
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lisa@weddingsourcebook.com
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Winter 2025 Deadline December 1, 2024
publisher’s corner
The end of the year…and the beginning of the next…
Welcome to the last issue of this year!! 2024 has been such a busy year! Congratulations to all our couples who will be planning their most amazing wedding. There’s never been a better time to highlight the incredible talent and dedication within our local wedding industry. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the professionals in our community are here to make your dream wedding a reality.
And with that in mind, the Western New England Fall Bridal Show celebrates its 20th fall bridal show at the MassMutual Center, Springfield, MA on November 3rd. As a sponsor of this show, we’re proud to be included with the area’s finest wedding professionals and businesses. This grand showcase brings together a wide array of vendors, from bridal boutiques and catering experts to florists and photographers.
With countless displays and interactive sessions, the Fall Bridal Show is the ultimate destination for discovering the latest trends, to get expert advice, and find everything you need to craft your perfect wedding. It’s a celebration of all things bridal and a testament to the creativity and professionalism of our local wedding industry.
I must say there are so many wonderful trends and creative segments to be found at this show that draw attention to what couples are looking for. Attending these events not only provides inspiration but also allows you to work directly with local experts who understand the nuances of our area and can offer personalized advice. I’m sure you’ll find something you absolutely must have for your wedding at this event. I’m thinking…Live Wedding Painters…those creative talents paint a moment from your wedding live at your wedding in front of your guests!! Talk about unforgettable and you have this amazing painting to cherish!
We hope you use the Wedding Day Sourcebook and events such as the November wedding show to help you define your style and get you connected to those experienced professionals and businesses. The Sourcebook is available online 24/7 so you can access it any time.
As you prepare for your special day, remember that the heart of our local wedding industry is here to support and may you find information and inspiration in The Wedding Day Sourcebook.
Jim and Lisa Powers Publishers, The Wedding Day Sourcebook
Celebrate with Us! Attend the 20th Annual Western New England Fall Bridal Show
Congratulations on your engagement! As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your wedding, you’ll want to ensure every detail is perfect. Attending the 20th Annual Western New England Fall Bridal Show is a fantastic way to make that happen. Celebrating it’s 20th fall show, this wedding event is not to be missed! Get your comfortable shoes on, make your list and plan to attend!
Discover the Best Local Vendors
This wedding show brings together a curated selection of top wedding professionals from across Western New England. This is your chance to meet face-to-face with talented vendors including photographers, florists, cake designers, and more. By interacting with these experts, you can find the perfect match for your vision and budget, all in one place.
Experience a Wide Range of Services
From bridal gowns to venue decorations and catering options, food trucks and the latest local trends, this show features a diverse array of services and products. You can explore the latest trends, compare offerings, and gather ideas that might just inspire your dream wedding. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see, touch, and especially taste what’s out there before making any commitments.
Get Inspired and Find Your Style
The Western New England Fall Bridal Show starts out by showcase amazing, creative reception tables with a Tabletop Design Show and Competition. Vote for your favorite…and WIN! Then as you walk through the various booths and displays you’ll discover more details that will spark your creativity and help you refine your wedding style. The show showcases everything from elegant and classic to modern and whimsical, so you’re bound to find inspiration that resonates with your personal taste and vision for your big day. On hand you’ll see tents and rentals, bar services, beautiful fashions and so much more.
Enjoy Exclusive Offers and Discounts
Many vendors usually do offer special promotions and discounts exclusively for bridal show attendees. By participating, you can take advantage of these deals, which might include discounted services, special packages, or complimentary add-ons. It’s a great way to save money while securing high-quality services. Be ready to leave your information and book an appointment as desired wedding professionals will book up quickly.
Access Expert Advice and Guidance
Many of the vendors and experts at the show are not only there to showcase their services but also to offer options for your event. Meeting these wonderful businesses and professionals in person can certainly give you information, inspiration and confidence that your wedding needs are on target and you’re informed.
Enjoy a Fun and Festive Atmosphere
This wedding event is also a fun, enjoyable experience. With live entertainment, a beautiful fashion show and interactive booths, it’s more than just a shopping trip—it’s a celebration of your upcoming nuptials. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and get excited about the journey ahead.
Save The Date!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join us at the 20th Annual Western New England Fall Bridal Show on November 3rd at the MassMutual Center, Springfield, MA and immerse yourself in a day of inspiration and celebration. It’s the perfect way to turn your wedding dreams into reality, and we can’t wait to help you make that happen!
See you there!
Produced by CJC Events, the event is sponsored by The Wedding Day Sourcebook. Media sponsors include MassAppeal and WWLP TV22. For Information: www.cjcevents Contact: lisa@cjcevents.com - Phone: (413) 737-7555
Bridal Show Planning Tips!
Are you planning on attending a bridal show?
Looking for some inspiration and information?
Lets get you prepared for a day of fun and inspiration!
Create a Wedding Email Address
This gets you organized, keeping all your wedding planning information together in one account. It helps you keep conversations with vendors and businesses organized and out of your daily email box.
Get Advance Tickets!
Some shows offer free or advance discount tickets if you register in advance of the event. This will save you time getting into the show.
Don’t Forget the Wedding Party!
Brides, grooms, attendants, family, anyone helping to plan this wedding could attend! A recommendation to consider: as much as you may like to bring little ones, especially flower girls, to this event, it can be overwhelming for them and a distraction for you.
Bring Labels!
One of the easiest ways to leave your information with a wedding professional that you’re interested in is to have a pre-printed label with your name, wedding date and contact info. You can also enter to win show specials or giveaways by just sticking a label on their signup slip.
Wear Comfortable Shoes!
You’ll be walking a bit, looking through displays, standing while speaking with wedding professionals. Make sure you have comfortable shoes on your feet as you’ll be covering a lot of ground.
Make Sure That You Eat!
There’s sure to be concession stands, food samples and delicious cake to taste. Make sure you eat and stay hydrated as all the goodies come your way.
Take Notes and Information!
If you find a wedding professional or business you want to work with, make an appointment. Be sure to pick up a business card or flyer and mark it so you know you liked them and why. Don’t be afraid to take some information on a wedding professional or business you may not be ready to even talk to yet. You can use it after the show to look up their website, social media and connect with them after the show.
Have Fun!
Enjoy the show! Wedding professionals and businesses are there to help you with your wedding plans, to assist you with finding your style, wedding inspiration and point you in the right direction to all those things you may need to have an amazing celebration. Take time to have fun in photo booths, sample food, talk to the experts and taste the cake! It’s time to celebrate!
36th Annual
CONNECTICUT BRIDAL EXPO
Fall Wedding and Bridal Expo
January 8-9, 2022
November 17, 2024
CT Convention Center 100 Columbus Blvd, Hartford CT 06103
Aqua Turf Club
32nd Annual
556 Mulberry St, Plantsville, CT 06479
SPRINGFIELD WEDDING & BRIDAL EXPO
January 15 & 16, 2022
Better Living Center "Home of the BIG E"
Springfield Wedding and Bridal Expo
1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089
January 11, 2025 - January 12, 2025
15th Annual
WORCESTER BRIDAL EXPO
Better Living Center
January 22-23, 2022
1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089
DCU Center 50 Foster Street, Worcester, MA 01608
8th Annual
Worcester Wedding and Bridal Expo
KC101 BRIDAL EXPO
January 19, 2025
January 29, 2022
Oakdale Theatre 95 S Turnpike Rd Wallingford, CT 06492
DCU Center
50 Foster Street Worcester, Massachusetts 01608
21st Annual
WESTCHESTER COUNTY BRIDAL EXPO
January 30, 2022
Westchester Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom 660 White Plains Rd, Tarrytown, NY 10591
Connecticut Wedding and Bridal Expo
February 08, 2025 - February 09, 2025
19th Annual
Connecticut Convention Center 100 Columbus Boulevard Hartford, CT. 06103
KISS 95.7 HARTFORD BRIDAL EXPO
March 6, 2022
Hartford XL Center 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103
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Trending Trends Sourcebook
Late Night Bites
Late night bites are a hit because they offer guests a tasty treat to enjoy after dancing and celebrating. Late night bites could include the couples’ favorite snacks, to go home or enjoyed on site. Consider gourmet cookies, French macarons, an ice cream truck or even cannoli with an espresso bar. It adds fun as is a great way to wrap up the reception.
Frosted Swirl www.frostedswirl.com
Outdoor Games
Outdoor games like cornhole add a fun, relaxed atmosphere to wedding receptions, especially if your venue has an outdoor space. They encourage mingling and offer a lighthearted activity that guests of all ages can enjoy. Consider adding other games like giant Jenga or a foosball table for added variety. Outdoor games provide entertainment and create a lively, casual vibe that encourages guests to socialize and have fun. They’re perfect for breaks between formal events and help keep the energy high throughout the day.
I Do Love A Rental www.idolovearental.com
Live Wedding Painter
A live wedding painter creates a unique piece of art during your ceremony or reception, capturing a moment from your special day in real-time. This trend is gaining traction for its personal touch and the way it provides a lasting memory in a beautifully artistic form and guests love to watch.
Beret And Brush
www.beretandbrush.com
Mismatched Bridesmaids’ Dresses
Mismatched bridesmaids’ dresses allow for individual style and comfort while maintaining a cohesive look. This trend is popular for its flexibility and ability to showcase each bridesmaid’s personality and preferences. Choose a color palette and let your attendants choose their dresses within guidelines. You can mix different lengths, patterns and styles.
A Final Personal Dance
Happening most often without guests, a final personal dance is where the couple shares a private moment on the dance floor after the reception, is a touching way to end the celebration and a great opportunity for some final images. It’s a private, heartfelt moment that lets the couple savor their day.
Seth Kaye Photography
Lemelin Photography
Sandra & Connor
Sourcebook
Sandra and Connor’s Wedding Team
Photographer
Brian Marsh Photography
Ceremony & Reception Location
Two Weeks Notice Brewery
First Look Photos
Eastern States Exposition / Big Yellow Slide
DJ
DJ Shamrock Scott Meyer
Caterer
Hamel’s Catering
Breakfast for Dinner: Bride requested French Toast, Pancakes and various sides
Cake/Dessert
Donut Dip
Rentals
TNT Rentals
Rings
Brad Matthew Jewelers
Nestled in the heart of West Springfield, MA, Two Weeks Notice Brewery offered a refreshingly unique setting for a memorable micro wedding celebration. The couple had envisioned a wedding that was unique and personal opting instead for the vibrant atmosphere of this craft brewery. The private patio became the perfect backdrop for a ceremony that was both intimate and delightfully unconventional.
Before they even got to the ceremony and reception, the couple along with their photographer, planned some fun, unique first look images at the Eastern States Exposition ground’s Big Yellow Slide. The slide was not officially open, but it made for some memorable images that also included the beer, “Big Slide” from Two Weeks Notice Brewery.
The patio was the setting for family and friends to gather for the ceremony, enjoying the relaxed charm of the brewery. The bride’s mother had the honor of walking her daughter down the aisle. As the couple were pronounced married the officiant said “you may now drink with the bride!”
After the ceremony, the bride changed into red Converse sneakers and her niece, who was a junior bridesmaid, changed into white Converse. The couple, wedding party and family members took time to take some unique images in the actual brewing room before having “breakfast for dinner” a special request of the bride. The couple, their family and friends enjoy Pancakes, French Toast and other delicious side options during the reception.
Continuing with their personal take on their wedding, the couple cut a very large donut instead of a traditional wedding cake to the song, “Got the Life” by Korn.
The blend of the brewery’s laid-back atmosphere and the couple’s heartfelt touches made for a wedding that was not only unique but also a true reflection of their personalities. The rings were featured with their favorite beer, “Casual Friday!”
The Value of Hiring a Pro By Dale Desmarais
As the number of engagements and weddings continue to increase exponentially from Covid-Time numbers and seems to show no signs of slowing down, couples have some very important decisions to make. As they focus on a reasonable budget and try to line up top tier vendors that fall into their price point, couples will often need to cut some corners to make it all work. But cutting the wrong corners can prove to be disastrous. This is your big day, of course, so you want everything to be perfect. To steer clear of problems and maximize your resources, it makes sense to set some proper expectations, and then prioritize the items that mater most.
It is often recommended to book the “Core 4” first. The “Core 4” in many wedding industry professional’s opinion, are:
1. The Venue
2. The Officiant
3. The DJ
4. The Photographer
There are many other important aspects can often be selected subsequently to assure that deadlines are met, and top choices are available. In the past, confirming with a core vendor 6 months, 1 year, or a year and a half out was typically sufficient to get that service secured. But today, in the post-covid surge, we know that some of the top vendors are taking retainers to hold wedding dates 2 and 3 years out for the choice seasons, days & times.
It sounds crazy, but it is a reality. Couples are now commonly starting to search for services online and at bridal shows 2 years or more before their planned days. Thursday and Sunday weddings are becoming increasingly more common, morning weddings are back, and the “off-season” is shifting to prime time!! The suggestion from some wedding planners is “book early or take what’s left.”
Here are a few notes, tips, and questions to ask about the “Core 4”:
1. Venue – The environment where all the magic will happen.
This will be the back-drop for everything that happens on your big day. The coordinators at the venue will help keep you on schedule. They will communicate with your other vendor partners what needs to happen to make everything flow smoothly.
You will want to ask a few questions before you select a venue. What resonates with you aesthetically? Does it match your vibe as a couple? How will your guest’s experience all aspects of this venue?
How well do you click with the day-of coordinator? Have you communicated your expectations to them and, yes, have they communicated their expectations of you and your guests? Is there a back up plan depending on weather? Is the size adequate for the number of guests that you will invite? Does the venue offer adequate parking or shuttle service for guests? How about the food? (Taste, Temperature, Portion and Presentation) Once you have secured the venue, you now have your date and time. All other services that you will need, now have to be available to provide services on this day and time, at this location.
2. Officiant – The person that will perform the ceremony and set the tone for the rest of the day.
This can be a state appointed Justice of the Peace, a Minister, or Religious Clergy. These days, if the ceremony is not being performed in a church, the officiant is most often a Justice of the Peace or a non-denominational minister. Other than making everything legal, and filing the appropriate paperwork with the state, the officiant has the responsibility to tell the couple’s story in the tone and context that the couple chooses. (Short and sweet, personal, and detailed, religious, or non-secular, fun and energetic, formal and serious, or any combination of those items that the couple requests.)
This is absolutely one example of where hiring a professional is extremely important. Some couples have asked a friend to officiate and although it may seem like a good idea on the surface, this is one area that can really go wrong. Just because your friend is a good public speaker, doesn’t mean that they have any experience in running a wedding ceremony. (If they own a pair of scissors and have used them to open packages every day at work, would you trust them to cut your hair? lol) There have been countless articles written about the things that can go wrong when someone with no experience officiating a wedding just gives it a whirl. Like this one https:// www.engagedandready.com/eight-reasons-whyfriends-or-family-members-shouldnt-officiateyour-wedding-ceremony but trusting a friend with planning and executing this tone-setting event can be a strain on the person, and your friendship. Instead maybe ask them to do a reading, or say a few words about the relationship, or say a blessing.
Some officiants do a lot more than just show up and speak on the big day so ask questions like these: What announcements should the officiant make before the ceremony starts? If something happens to you, what is the back-up plan to have someone else officiate? Can I customize my ceremony? Can we write out own vows? Does the officiant attend the rehearsal? Do they run the rehearsal? Will the officiant ask the guests to be seated after the processional? (Please say yes!) What items are required by the state to be in the ceremony to make it legal? How early can the couple apply for the marriage license? Will the officiant submit the marriage license to the town? How can we get the guests more engaged in the ceremony? Will the officiant move out of the way during the first kiss? (Please say yes!) The officiant sets the tone and makes it all legal with the state so yes, it is definitely best to hire a pro!
3. The DJ – The entertainment for the reception and your master of ceremonies for the reception.
It is the responsibility of the DJ to introduce each step of the reception to the guests, to play the right songs at the right times and to read the crowd accordingly. This is an art form. This is NOT a job for a kid with an iPod, a Spotify list and a pair of speakers. A professional DJ makes sure that all of their equipment is in good working order and has back up gear, even a back-up disk jockey if they are ill. They set the mood and build the emotion in the room up to pivotal moments. This takes years of experience of reading different people and various crowds. They will sit with the couple multiple times before the big day to clearly communicate how they want the event to flow. They will discuss and notate any “must play” or “do not play” songs. The DJ can help enforce the Dayof-Timeline and can cover up any delays with music. So, for example, your guests may never know that the Best Man was in the restroom when it was time for his toast. Think of how you want your event to be remembered the next day or even years from now! Do you want a “Rager”….if so, it will help if you have invited some fun and energetic people to your wedding as it makes it easier for the DJ to work with these party starters. Here are some additional questions that you can ask: How long have you been in the business? Do you have a back-up DJ and gear if needed? Have you ever worked with this venue before? Ask if they have a questionnaire or form that they use to keep organized, and if so ask to see it. How early before the event do you arrive to set up? Is your music licensed? (This is big, do not risk your music getting shut down if the DJ has all pirated music. Very small chance of it happening but I would not take the chance.) Do you offer music during ceremony or cocktail hour? Do you offer up lighting, photobooth, gobo projection or other services? Can they help you choose special songs with sentimental meaning for key moments? What is the DJ’s playing style? (do they tempo mix from song to song or do the fade in and out or do the cut one to start another, etc?) I would not suggest giving your DJ a full list of all the songs to play, rather discuss a style and vibe that you are going for, and then trust a professional to rock the house!!
Communication prior to the event is key, then you can count on your professional DJ to deliver on your expectations.
4. The Photographer – The person who captures all the memories of your day visually.
Where the first 3 of the 4 focus primarily on the experience of the now on the big day, this 4th of the core service providers has an equal responsibility to deliver a great day-of experience, and, also, an amazing future-forward experience as they capture memories that last forever. Just as with the first three, you should really connect with the individual photographer as you will be working with them closely for most of the day. In addition, you really want to take some time to review their artistic work in their sample images.
Does their style reflect how you would like to be seen? What is their vibe? Are they fun and wild? Are they mysterious? Are they adventurous with trying new perspectives? Are they willing to get on the ground and shoot up for a cool shot? Are you and your bridal party willing to get on the ground, or jump in the air? What types of images are you looking for and what emotions are they trying to elicit? Or do you not care, and are putty in their hands for whatever they want to try?
Think of gifts that you may want to give later. For example, if it is really important for you to give your dad a 3-photo montage of the handoff to your partner, (handshake dad and your partner, dad hugging you, and dad bringing your partner’s and your hands together) then you want to communicate that to your photographer. P.S. – I have seen this piece bring even the dads that never cry to tears. Again, the key here is to choose someone that is easy going and flexible, fun to be around and work with, and has the artistic perspective that speaks to you. Hiring a professional photographer is a decision that you will be happy about for many years after your big day.
As couples plan their big day, there are so many decisions to make. My suggestion is to ask for referrals from others that you have selected, check references on-line and with wedding pros in the field, and stick with the professionals on as many items as possible to ensure that your day will be EPIC!!
Dale has been a Justice of the Peace since 2007 and in that time has performed well over a hundred ceremonies. Dale has the ability to keep the ceremony professional and serious or entertaining and fun, (or anywhere in-between) depending on the wishes of the couple that he is working with and their personality. His professionalism and energetic personality puts him at the top of the referral list for banquet halls, DJs, photographers and, of course, his many satisfied couples that he has had the opportunity to work with. For more information, check out his ad on page 14.
Wedding Cakes in 2025: Still Sweet or Sliced Out?
So, are wedding cakes in or out for 2025? The answer is a resounding “in” – but with a delightful twist. While the traditional wedding cake remains beloved, couples are increasingly exploring creative options that fit their personalities and wedding themes. The key is to choose what feels right for you and your celebration.
Weddings and cake go together like love and laughter. But as we waltz into the coming years, you might be wondering: Are wedding cakes still a beloved highlight of the wedding, or have they taken a back seat to trendier alternatives? Fear not! We’re here to serve up the latest scoop on wedding cakes and their fabulous alternatives.
The Timeless Appeal
Let’s start with the classics. Wedding cakes have been charming guests for centuries, and their popularity shows no sign of crumbling. Whether it’s a classic vanilla sponge, a rich chocolate ganache, or a zesty lemon drizzle, these confections remain a go-to for many couples.
Let’s Start with some Pros:
Tradition: There’s always something nostalgic about a wedding cake. Guests look forward to viewing it and watching the couple cut the cake, but no one likes cake smeared or smashed in the face. That is a big “no!”
Customization: There are endless possibilities to the personalization of the wedding cake. From coordinating flowers or colors to match the wedding, to traditional cake toppers and even including a little dog or cat figurine celebrating a pet family member. And let’s not forget about the flavor options!
Traditional Photo Ops: A beautiful cake makes for a memorable photo opportunity. An image to cherish.
Addressing the Cons:
Size issues: Larger cakes can be pricey and sometimes go to waste if you don’t have a big enough guest list. Cake tends to be sliced and served just as the dancing is ramping up and tends to not always get enjoyed, eventually getting cleared by catering or serving staff without being touched. (if you’re like me at a wedding, you live for a piece of cake!)
Delivery: Getting a multi-tiered masterpiece to the venue in one piece can be a logistical challenge taken on professionally by the baker or cake designer. A delivery fee is surely involved but well worth it. No worries…you have a professional taking care of your cake!
Wedding Cake Alternatives
Now let’s discuss the alternatives. While the classic wedding cake remains a tradition, we’re seeing an influx of innovative alternatives that are just as delightful. Most of these alternatives can and do include a single or double tiered cutting cake for tradition.
Cupcakes: Cupcake towers are charming and practical. They offer a variety of flavors in a fun, grab-and-go format. Many quests opting for tasting more than one flavor of these bites! Plus, if you provide little boxes at the end of the evening, guests will almost always take one for the road!
Donut Walls: Yes! A separate wall of a delicious variety of donuts! A quick grab and go and also easy to supply a box later in the evening for the guests to take with them at the end of the wedding. Who can resist a donut!
Cheesecakes and Pie Bars: Cheesecake might be the perfect choice. Available in a variety of flavors with toppings. Guests can help themselves easily when they are ready. And pies are always a local favorite with traditional flavors or special options of the couple’s favorites and they go great with an espresso bar!
Cheese Cakes: And we don’t mean the standard cheesecake mind you, but an arrangement of fine cheeses that guests can nibble on throughout the night. More of a grazing table of great cheeses paired with a variety of crackers, breads and toppings. Not to be confused with a charcuterie table. This is for the couple who prefer savory over sweet. It’s a sophisticated twist that adds a gourmet touch to your celebration.
Cookies and Macarons: Yummy bites of traditional favorites along with favorites of the couple, maybe something that calls back to childhood. Also Macarons are an elegant and versatile option. Either option is easily boxed or bagged for a grab-and-go option. Guests tend to like this option.
Keep the Cake!
If the grandiosity of a traditional wedding cake isn’t your style, consider a cutting cake just for you, the couple. This smaller, often more personal cake allows you to indulge in a special moment.
Wedding Cake: In or Out?
So, we ask that question again…are wedding cakes in or out for 2025 and beyond? Whether you opt for a classic cake, a stylish cupcake tower, or a unique cheese spread, the focus remains the same: celebrating love with a touch of sweetness. So go ahead and plan your perfect confection – after all, it’s your special day, and your dessert should be as fabulous as you are! And if you want our opinion…wedding cakes are IN!!
Samantha & Bailey
Samantha and Bailey’s Wedding Team
Photographer Lemelin Photography
Bridal Shop
Penny Jane
Formalwear
Men’s Wearhouse, Holyoke
Videography
Hale Channel
Ceremony & Reception
The Boylston Rooms
Caterer
Myers Catering
DJ
TC’s Disc Jockey
Florist
Solo wood flowers
Décor
The Boylston Rooms
Cake
Pete’s Sweets
Rings
Kay Jewelers
Sourcebook
On a beautiful day in April, Samantha and Bailey exchanged vows in front of family and friends at The Boylston Rooms in Easthampton, MA.
Following some wedding traditions, Samantha had a sixpence in her shoe and a Patriot’s patch for her something blue in honor of her grandfather. She also carried a family handkerchief that her mother and many other women in her family had on them for their own weddings, continuing a beautiful family tradition.
Following the trend of a first look before the ceremony was out for this couple. Samantha said, “when the doors opened to the aisle, I saw Bailey for the first time!” After the ceremony, the couple took some quiet moments alone in the Groom’s Suite. “It was amazing getting a few moments of down time together!” Samantha said.
The reception started and their first dance song was From the Ground Up by Dan & Shay. Adding personal touches, Samantha and Bailey decided to have a Disney cutting cake as they are both huge fans of Disney and got engaged in front of the castle. Also, during the reception, they changed into Custom Nike Air Force 1’s with their wedding date 413 on the back.
At the end of the night, Samantha and Baily were brought back to the ceremony room that was now completely empty except for some candles and décor. They had a private last dance, totally alone, to end their perfect wedding. They danced to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Kacey Musgraves. It was their most perfect way to end the night.
Samantha said, “our DJ (Tony) and the Boylston Rooms took our desire for a private last dance and made it a hundred times better than what we imagined!”
Rebecca & Phil
Sourcebook
Rebecca and Phil’s
Ceremony & Reception
Hair &Make Up
Honey Beauty
DJ Champagne Toast
Florist Bell Brook Farms
Officiant
Wedding Team
Photographer Seth Kaye Photography
Salem Cross Inn
Paula from Salem Cross Inn
Photo by Lauren Hawkins
Meg & Zack
Sourcebook
Meg and Zack’s Wedding Team
Photographer Seth Kaye Photography
Ceremony & Reception
The Williams Inn
DJ Chris Plankey
Officiant
Rev. Anna Brooke
Starting a New Tradition! Father and Daughter First Looks
When it comes to weddings, the first look between the bride and groom often steals the spotlight. However, a growing trend is capturing hearts and camera lenses alike: the father-daughter first look. These moments are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason—they’re incredibly special and offer a unique blend of emotion and joy.
A father-daughter first look is becoming a more touching ritual that allows for a private, intimate moment before the grand festivities begin. Imagine a father seeing his daughter in her wedding gown for the first time, it a private moment before first looks with the couple—it’s a scene filled with awe, pride, and most often, happy tears. This moment allows fathers to express their deep feelings in a way that’s often more personal and relaxed than the hustle of the wedding day.
These first looks often create space for fathers and daughters to share a heartfelt conversation away from the spotlight. It’s a chance for fathers to tell their daughters how beautiful they look, share a cherished memory, or simply embrace the reality that their little girl is now a bride. For many fathers, it’s an emotional milestone, and for daughters, it’s a moment to cherish their father’s support and love.
Not only does this moment allow for a unique photo opportunity—capturing genuine, unfiltered emotions—but it also sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. The intimacy of the first look helps ground both father and daughter, allowing them to enjoy the wedding day with a heart full of love and connection.
In essence, while the first look between the bride and groom is undeniably magical, a father-daughter first look adds a beautiful layer of personal touch and sentiment. It’s a cherished opportunity to celebrate the bond between a father and his daughter, making the wedding day even more memorable and meaningful.
Photos by Lemelin Photography
Images by Robert Charles Photography
Behind The Scenes At Local Weddings
Submitted by Seth Kaye
Things To Do - A Bridal Checklist
12 to 24 Months Ahead
• Subscribe to the Wedding Day Sourcebook
• Attend every Bridal Show you can! Check www.weddingsourcebook.com
• Announce your engagement
• Decide on the atmosphere you’d like at your wedding
• Talk to family & fiancé about budget
• Decide the size of your wedding
• Talk to clergy or J.P. and arrange ceremony location & date
• Find a reception location available on your date
• Plan wedding theme and colors
• Choose your wedding party
• Compile your guest lists and set up a system to track RSVP’s.
• Select all your formalwear
• Select bridesmaids dresses
• Select tuxes and accessories
• Set up a wedding registry
• Choose a wedding planner
• Choose a photographer
• Choose a videographer
• Choose a cake
• Choose musicians for ceremony
• Choose musicians /DJ for reception
• Choose a florist
• Choose lighting and decor
• Reserve any rental equipment needed
• Send deposits to all your vendors, keep all your contracts with your payment schedules.
• Arrange transportation from your house to the ceremony, from the ceremony to the formal photography location, from there to the reception, and from the reception to the honeymoon night location.
4 to 6 Months Ahead
• Reserve accommodations for your out-of-town guests
• Select and order your invitations and thank- you cards
• Arrange your honeymoon travel
• Order rings and engraving
• Have a menu tasting and finalize food selections
2 to 4 Months Ahead
• Address and assemble wedding invitations
• Buy enough postage for invitations and RSVP envelopes
• Mail invitations
• Make hair and makeup appointments including a trial 1 to 2 Months Ahead
•Finalize all arrangements with all vendors
• Have final dress fittings
• Attend showers and send thank-yous
• Plan a get-together with your bridesmaids
• Marriage license (fewer than 30 days before the ceremony)
•Finalize meal counts with venue or caterer
2 Weeks Ahead
• Plan to change your name on your Social Security info, driver’s license, credit cards, & bank accounts -- you will need a certified copy of your wedding certificate.
• Make a seating plan for the reception; write placecards 1 Week Ahead
• Pack for honeymoon
• Pack an emergency kit for the wedding day containing a sewing kit, comfortable shoes, hairspray, touch up kit, bobby pins, kleenex, Pepto Bismol, etc.
