WedPlan La Crosse 2024

WEDPLANLAX.COM

Jenna Walker Photography

Boxcar Photography

Boxcar Photography

Emily Jean Photography

On-location or in our salon

Free initial consultation

Enchanted Bridal Styling

701 Rose St. La Crosse WI | 608-387-7019 |

melanin.beautybar |

Melanin Beauty Bar

CELEBRATING LOVE

Visit WEDPLANLAX.COM for vendor profiles, blog posts, inspo gallery, a digital planning companion, and to submit your wedding for editorial consideration.

Follow us on socials, tag us in your wedding posts

|

|

|

| @wedplanlacrosse

2024 EDITION WEDPLANLAX.COM

PUBLISHER Dana Gee CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lindsey Kaney CREATIVE TEAM Lindsey Kaney Caitlyn Steiner Sarah Lopez Izzy Ripp SALES TEAM Dana Gee Jenna Schoenmann

ON THE COVER

STYLED SHOOT COORDINATOR Summer Snyder

Bouquet

Bloom & Knot Chair

Orange Door Weddings

PROJECT ASSISTANTS Savana Martens Kimmy Schwarzenbart OFFICE MANAGER Dawn Evert

WedPlan ©2024 JOY Publications, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed PHOTO CREDITS PREVIOUS PAGE: Rachel Traxler Photography,

in the USA. WedPlan is Published annually by JOY Publications LLC,

Codi Shandel Photography, Twig & Olive Photography, Copper Antler

9335 Turkey Road, Black Earth, WI 53515. Dana Gee, Publisher.

Photography, Carlin Christine Creative, Valerie Halling Photography,

Written material and artwork may not be reproduced without written

Vital Image Studios, Joe and Jen Photo, Brittany Eitsert Photography

permission of the publisher.

2 WedPlan

Celebrating

LOVE

CONGRATULATIONS! You're getting married! WedPlan La Crosse is your local resource to help you with every step of your wedding planning. This guide you're holding has pages filled with planning advice, questions to ask, timelines, checklists, inspiration, and incredible area vendor connections!

Like what you're seeing? You'll LOVE visiting us at wedplanlax.com, where you will be sure to find gorgeous trending ideas and talented local vendors!

We encourage you to shop locally and support our Wisconsin wedding community. Their experience, creativity, passion, and expertise are priceless, and they work to give our local couples the best experience possible for their special days. Whether you find your dream team in this guide or online, be sure to tell your vendors you found them through WedPlan La Crosse! We couldn't do what we do without them.

We truly hope you love what you find in the following pages of this book and that it is a helpful tool for you as you plan and prepare to celebrate your love.

Once you've said "I Do," we encourage you to send us your beautiful wedding photos and videos! We would LOVE to see all the stunning details and consider publishing or sharing your special day!

From our team to you, happy wedding planning and have an even happier ever after!

xoxo,

Dana

P.S. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok for even more wedding goodness at @wedplanlacrosse!

3

4 WedPlan

AliLou Events, Pennycress Studio, Dani Stephenson Photography

CONTENTS PLANNING THE BASICS

06

PLANNING COMPANION

16

INVITING GUESTS

50

YOUR LOOK

58

CEREMONY

80

RECEPTION

92

TABLE DESIGN

106

FOOD & DRINK

120

PARTIES

132

CAPTURE THE MOMENTS

160

GIFTS

166

TRAVEL

174

VENDORS

178

FIND LOCAL VENDORS AND WHAT TO KNOW & ASK

INSPO GALLERY

270

FASHION, INVITES, BOUQUETS, CAKES & DESSERTS

STYLED DESIGNS

318

WEDDING DESIGN CONCEPTS & DETAILS

REAL WEDDINGS

374

INSPIRATION FROM THE LOCAL WEDDING SCENE

5

6 WedPlan

THE BASICS GETTING STARTED

|

08

DECIDE THE VIBE

|

10

COLOR PALETTE

|

11

WEDPLAN VIBES

|

12

WEDDING TRENDS

|

14

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

7

GETTING STARTED SOAK IT IN You're engaged, yay! Before you get into the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, take some time to just soak in this sweet season of life with your partner and loved ones around you. Show off your ring, enjoy an engagement party, or go on a date with just the two of you. Ultimately, be intentional about creating space to reflect on your relationship and love for one another before getting into the planning details of your big day.

HIRE A PLANNER Couples often claim hiring a wedding planner is the best money ever spent! A professional can help design your event, organize logistics, manage vendor communication, create a timeline, help manage your budget, oversee the wedding day, or a combination of these services.

Planners have the knowledge, expertise, resources, and tools to save you time, money, and stress in dealing with situations that arise during the planning process and at your event. They can also help take your vision to the next level!

SET THE DATE Once you've discussed which vendors are most important to you, check their availability as you set your wedding date. Many popular vendors book a year or more in advance! If a desired date has been selected, you can search for available vendors based on that firm detail.

TIP: Booking your wedding vendors for non-peak months or weekdays is a great option to save money or to have a fun alternative to a traditional Saturday wedding!

8 WedPlan

Stay Organized DISCUSS VISION & BUDGET

Staying organized when planning a

Sit down with your partner, and then your

stress and staying on top of all the

planner, to discuss your vision and your wedding.

• What is most important to you as a couple?

wedding is key to eliminating undue moving pieces. Remember, a wedding planner can help take as little or as much off of your plate as you desire!

• How do you want your day to feel and look?

• What kind of experience do you want to have?

HERE ARE SOME OF OUR TOP ORGANIZATIONAL TIPS:

• What kind of experience do you want your guests to have?

• Create a binder or digital folder to organize ideas, plans, and details,

• What is your overall budget?

• Is anyone else contributing financially?

If so, who is paying for what?

• What vendors are most important to you?

• Where are you willing to bend?

including: Inspiration Color Palette Vendor Contacts Checklists Contracts & Receipts

CONNECT WITH VENDORS Your wedding is probably the largest party you will ever throw. Wedding vendors can help you and your partner plan and enhance your vision

through

their

expertise,

creativity,

relationships with other vendors, and overall knowledge of the wedding industry. Less stress is priceless, so we highly encourage investing in quality wedding professionals for one of the most important days of your life!

Calendar Guest List Wedding Website • Use the planner in this guide to help organize tasks from pre- to postwedding details!

• Create a separate email address to organize all of your wedding-specific correspondence and an informative wedding website, if desired.

9

DECIDE THE VIBE One of the first steps to planning your wedding is deciding your vibe and vision. Whether you have been dreaming about it for years or are just getting started, selecting this upfront with your partner is essential. The vibe will guide every planning decision you and your vendors make to bring your wedding day vision to life! Consider the elements below as you decide how your day will look and feel:

COLOR Maybe you love neutrals, bright pops of color, or a monochromatic look.

What are your favorite colors, and what other colors complement them?

FORMALITY Are you looking to host a more casual or formal event? Wanting a backyard picnic, black-tie affair, or something in between?

SEASON Love a particular season? You may choose a color palette and decor that fits your chosen time of year. The natural surroundings, temperatures, and product availability can affect details like attire, floral, and food options.

LOCATION Already have a specific venue or location in mind? Whether a lake view, golf course setting, downtown loft, barn or something else, the setting can influence and help determine your vibe.

STYLE All weddings have an underlying style or combination of styles. Inspired by modern taste, romantic details, or a whimsical feel? You may love a vintage, minimalist, European, or botanical look. This will significantly affect your wedding day's overall vibe and vision.

NOTE: You may also consider having a theme paired with your wedding style that reflects shared hobbies, passions, or interests, adding fun twists to your wedding day elements!

10 WedPlan

COLOR PALETTE

Remember to be You!

"What are your colors?" This is a question you'll be asked often! They may be your favorite colors, those that tie in with a specific season, or those that complement your favorite blooms. Whether it be two to three hues or a more comprehensive array of complementing tones, be sure the colors work well together and in your setting.

Creating an inspirational mood board with wedding and lifestyle images that speak to who you are as a couple is an excellent way to lead you in the right direction. To decide the perfect vibe and color palette, start by browsing Pinterest, wedplanlax.com, looking through a Pantone book, or grabbing some paint swatches from your local hardware store to finalize your color selection.

All in all, be you! Let your personal style and vision lead you. Play off the unique interests that make you and your partner who you are. You'll be most comfortable and feel celebrated with an event that reflects both of you as a couple. Your likes, hobbies, and interests personalize your day, inspire great ideas, and help create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

So, whether you are looking to be ontrend or looking to be unique, be you!

SEARCH OUT INSPIRATION Dive into this guide, brimming with real weddings and styled shoots showcasing a wide range of inspiring styles and intricate details.

Visit wedplanlax.com's Inspiration tab with a diverse gallery of images that can be sorted by specific categories such as wedding styles, location types, color options, and more.

Consider involving wedding planners, stationers, and florists when looking for inspo. These talented vendors often have color swatches and can guide you through the planning process with insightful questions, extensive knowledge, and a creative vision tailored to your preferences.

Don't forget to harness the power of the internet for creative ideas. Pinterest, in particular, is a treasure trove of wedding inspiration.

Flip to the next page for the latest in wedding vibes and color trends!

11

WEDPLAN VIBES What’s trending in the world of weddings for 2024? Check out these previews of popular WedPlan wedding vibes making their statement this year! Discover more inspiration starting on page 318 from these stunning designs created by talented teams of local wedding professionals. Which of our Editorial Exclusives will ignite your imagination for your special day?

Timeless Black-Tie

Rustic Dusty Blue

Full Inspo and Credits Page 362

Full Inspo and Credits Page 326

Moody Gothic

Romantic Bridgerton

Full Inspo and Credits Page 368

Full Inspo and Credits Page 320

12 WedPlan

Although you can easily combine more than one style, it's important to keep things cohesive and stick with your vibe throughout every detail of your day. This will ensure a design that is pleasing to the eye, creates an experience, and looks stunning in your photos and videos!

MORE INSPIRATION can be found at wedplanlax.com and on Pinterest at @wedplanlacrosse!

Cheerful '70s Boho

Dramatic Red

Full Inspo and Credits Page 338

Full Inspo and Credits Page 356

Celebration in Citrus

Iconic Drive-In Elopement

Full Inspo and Credits Page 344

Full Inspo and Credits Page 350

13

WEDDING TRENDS

FLOWER HALO

OUTFIT CHANGE

BEER BOY

UNIQUE GUEST SIGN-INS

COLD SPARKS

MARQUEE LETTERS

Nikki Kate Photography

Twig & Olive Photography

Rachel Traxler Photography

14 WedPlan

Blu Moose Photography

Ali Lockery Photography

Well Lit, Kanyon Photography

NEON SIGNS

INCLUDE YOUR PETS

LOUNGE AREAS

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS & MOCKTAILS

Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

Gert & Tog Photography

FLOWER GRANDMA Larissa Marie Photography

Portraits By India Lawless

Gert & Tog Photography

SMOKE BOMBS

Kingsley Coordination, Savannah Steiger Photography

15

June 20

nds family + frie edding with blue w ig b down aisle borrowed + father escort nce something old, da anniversary ge certificate s be marria grandparent s who have passed one honor loved f terra cott with pops o

a and umber

color

style natural boho tures tex n o s si empha

fur baby include our t book es phone gu raw earthy

16 WedPlan

ri signature d first looks orals abundant fl

minimalist

y delicate air

witnesses e family danc

nks

1 2 10 3 4 7 8 5 6 9 11

1 4 9 2 3 8 5 6 7 11 10

PLANNING COMPANION

by WedPlan

happy planning 17

CHECKLIST AFTER ENGAGEMENT  Share Your Engagement  Insure Engagement Ring  Determine Budget and Who is Contributing  Make a Guest List with Mailing Addresses  Hire a Wedding Planner  Consider Your Preferred Wedding Date  Create an Organizing System  Hire Travel Agent for a Destination Wedding  Decide Formality and Overall Style  Select the Venue(s)  Choose Color Palette and Start

Thinking of Overall Design

 Book Photographer  Schedule Engagement Photos  Hire Ceremony Music  Hire Reception Music  Book Entertainment (Photobooth, etc.)  Choose Videographer  Select the Caterer  Decide Bar Service  Shop for and Order Wedding Dress  Buy Wedding Insurance  Select Your Wedding Party, Ushers, Readers,

Candle Lighters, and Special Attendants

12 MONTHS  Purchase Undergarments, Shoes, and Accessories  Book Hair and Makeup Artists  Hire Florist  Hire Officiant and Schedule

Your Premarital Counseling

 Determine Skincare Routine  Reserve Wedding Night Suite  Book Hotel-Room Blocks for Guests  Book Transportation for Guests  Book the Newlyweds’ Transportation  Consult with Stationer  Create Wedding Website  Initial Inquiry & Price Request for Rentals

18 WedPlan

notes

notes 9 MONTHS  Send Save-the-Dates  Apply for Passports if Traveling Abroad  Seek Out Baker  Select Wedding Party Dresses and Accessories  Select Mother Dresses and Accessories  Book the Honeymoon

6 MONTHS  Book Rehearsal Dinner Venue  Book Alterations Specialist  Buy or Rent Suits or Tuxedos  Invitation Consultation with Stationer  Invest in Dance Lessons  Food Tasting with Caterer  Sampling with Bar Service  Create Wedding Registry  Choose Your Cake and Desserts  Discuss Vision for Ceremony with Officiant  Schedule Design Meeting with Rental Vendor

and Order Rentals

3 MONTHS  Photographer Consultation to Plan Timeline  Videographer Consultation to Plan Timeline  Connect Photographer and Videographer  Order Invitations  First Dress Fitting  Dress Alterations for Wedding Party  Send Measurement Reminder for Suits/Tuxes  Venue Planning Consult  Brainstorm Guest Favors and Gift Bags  Select Readings  Meet With Officiant and Invite

Them to Rehearsal Dinner

 Plan Showers and any Bach Celebrations

19

notes 2 MONTHS  Mail Wedding Invitations

(RSVPs Due 1 Month Before Wedding)  Send Out Rehearsal Dinner Invitations

(Can Be Included With Wedding Invitations)  Buy Wedding Bands and Begin Design

if Custom Rings are Ordered  Appointment for Marriage License  Write Your Vows  Check in with Officiant  Choose Future Spouse Gift  Buy Wedding Party Gifts  Floral Consult  Finalize Timeline, Announcements,

and Music Selections  Hair and Makeup Trials  Confirm Suit or Tux Order  Monitor Hotel Block Weekly to

Ensure Room Availability  Verify Cake Details  Verify Caterer Order  Order Programs, Escort Cards,

Place Cards, Favors, and Signage

1 MONTH  Pick up Rings  Final Dress Fitting and Pickup,

Learn How to Bustle if Needed  Create a Seating Chart  Final Venue Walk-Through  Break In Your Wedding Shoes  Solidify Ceremony Site Plan  Finalize Rehearsal Dinner Plan  Confirm Rental List  Send Thank-You Notes for Shower

and Early Wedding Gifts

20 WedPlan

notes 1 MONTH CONTINUED  Send Timeline and Locations to

Transportation Vendor  Confirm Final Guest Count with

Venue, Caterer, and Baker  Plan Wedding Day Survival Kit  Review All Details. Walk Through the Entire

Event to Ensure All Details are Planned (Travel to and from Locations, Pre-Event Food and Beverage, Parking, etc.)

FINAL WEEK  Provide Wedding Party and Close Family

with Day-of Timeline  Assemble Gift Bags  Place Cash in Tip Envelopes for Your

Planner/Delegate to Distribute  Have Your Ring Professionally Cleaned  Refresh Your Hair Cut or Color along with

Waxing, Eyebrows, and Eyelash Extensions  Final Beard and Mustache Trims  Schedule a Manicure and Pedicure  Have a Couple’s Massage  Final Formalwear Fitting and Pickup  Organize Outfits and Accessories  Pack Your Passport, Travel Documents,

and Bags for the Honeymoon  Confirm Travel Arrangements  Practice Your Vows Aloud  Write Your Partner a Note  Drop Off Guest Welcome Bags for

Hotel to Distribute  Box Wedding Day Details for

Photographer’s Flatlay Photos (Jewelry, Rings + Shoes, Perfume, Invitation, Save the Date, Special Mementos)

21

notes THE DAY BEFORE  Eat Healthy Meals  Pack a Clutch or Small Bag of Personal Items  Drink Water  Attend Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner  Give Gifts to Wedding Party  Organize Vendor Payments and

Cash Tips for Planner to Hand Out  Put Boxes, Suitcases, Bags, and

Survival Kits in the Car  Get a Good Night’s Sleep

THE WEDDING DAY  Eat Breakfast  Drink Plenty of Water  Take Dress and Veil out of Bag Early on and

Have Someone Steam Them if Needed  Verify Rings are Present  Confirm Officiant has Marriage License  Exchange Notes with Your Partner  Say Thank You to Everyone Around You  Get Married!

AFTER THE WEDDING  Return Rented Formalwear  Return Rental Items  Obtain Marriage Certificate

from Register of Deeds  Work on Name Changes  Send Thank-You Notes in a Timely

Manner to Wedding Guests  Write Reviews, Send Thank-You Notes

and Final Gratuities to Vendors  Submit Your Wedding to WedPlan!

22 WedPlan

ENGAGEMENT OUR ENGAGEMENT DATE ______________________________________________

OUR ENGAGEMENT STORY

ABOUT THE RING

FAVORITE MOMENT

23

MOODBOARD COLORS

PATTERNS & TEXTURES

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE, VIBE, OR THEME

INSPIRING TRENDS

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING IN 3-5 WORDS

24 WedPlan

PRIORITIES WEDDING DATE _________________________________________________________________ MY CUSTOMS & TRADITIONS

MY PARTNER'S CUSTOMS & TRADITIONS

MOST IMPORTANT WEDDING MUST-HAVES Rank the categories below from most important to least. This knowledge will help you and your partner determine your budget and priorities.

YOU_

YOUR PARTNER

_____

Wedding Planner

______ Wedding Planner

_____

Photography

______ Photography

_____ Videography

______ Videography

_____ Venue & Atmosphere

______ Venue & Atmosphere

_____ Food & Drink

______ Food & Drink

_____ Flowers & Decor

______ Flowers & Decor

_____ Entertainment

______ Entertainment

_____ Attire

______ Attire

_____ Stationery & Signage

______ Stationery & Signage

_____ Specialty Rentals

______ Specialty Rentals

_____ Transportation

______ Transportation

25

WEDDING PARTY

Name | Role | Phone | Address | Email | Sizes for Attire | Measurements NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

26 WedPlan

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

NAME:

27

BUDGET

ESTIMATE

ACTUAL

Wedding Planner Ceremony Venue Officiant Fee/Donation Marriage License Reception Venue Rehearsal Dinner Venue Rehearsal Dinner Photographer Videographer Catering Morning Brunch Beverages and Bartenders Cake, Desserts Cake Desserts, and Cutting Fee Rings Wedding Attire and Alterations (Partner A) Wedding Attire and Alterations (Partner B) Hair and Makeup Bouquets, Boutonnieres and Corsages Bouquets Ceremony Decor Reception Centerpieces and Decor Rentals Ceremony Musicians Cocktail Hour Musicians Reception Music Reception Entertainment Save-the-Dates Invitation Suites Rehearsal Dinner Invites Stamps Programs, Escort Cards, Programs Cards Place Cards and Signage Favors Thank-You Cards Dance Lessons Limos or Car Rental Guest Shuttle or Parking Wedding Night Hotel Room Honeymoon Tip Money for Vendors Gifts for Each Other Gifts (Weddingg Party ty, Parents, Children, Etc.) TOTAL $

28 WedPlan

$

VENUE CEREMONY VENUE Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ Capacity ______________________________________________________________ Start & End Time __________________________________________________ Price ___________________________________________________________________ Deposit _______________________________________________________________ Getting Ready Spaces?

Yes 

No 

Guest Parking?

Yes 

No 

External Vendors Allowed?

Yes 

No 

Weather Contingency Plan?

Yes 

No  REVIEW o ut of 5

RECEPTION VENUE Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ Capacity ______________________________________________________________ Start & End Time __________________________________________________ Price ___________________________________________________________________ Deposit _______________________________________________________________ In-house Catering?

Yes 

No 

Guest Parking?

Yes 

No 

Noise Restrictions?

Yes 

No 

External Vendors Allowed?

Yes 

No 

Weather Contingency Plan?

Yes 

No 

29

OFFICIANT Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ Price ___________________________________________________________________ Rehearsal Day & Time ___________________________________________ Wedding Day Arrival Time ____________________________________

PREMARITAL COUNSELING DATES & TIME 1. ______________________________________________________________________ 2. ______________________________________________________________________ 3. ______________________________________________________________________ 4. ______________________________________________________________________

SAVE-THE-DATES TIP: 9-14 months prior to wedding date. Be sure to keep one copy for a keepsake and one to include in your wedding day details to be photographed.

Deliver by ____________________________________________________________ Your Names Wedding Date Location (City, State) Wedding Website Notice of Invitation to Follow WRITE YOUR SAVE-THE-DATE COPY:

30 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

STATIONERY & SIGNAGE Order by ______________________________________________

TIP: 4-6 Months before the wedding

Deliver by ____________________________________________

TIP: 2-4 Months before the wedding

RSVP Requested by ___________________________________

TIP: Follow-up with missing RSVPs 4-7 days after due date

STATIONER

REVIEW o ut of 5

Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ NOTES:

Invitations____________________________________________________________ Programs_____________________________________________________________ Response Cards_____________________________________________________ Place Cards___________________________________________________________ Escort Cards_________________________________________________________ Table Numbers_____________________________________________________ Menu Cards__________________________________________________________ Guest Book___________________________________________________________ Rehearsal Dinner Invitations___________________________________ Thank-You Cards___________________________________________________ Thank-You Gifts____________________________________________________ Specialty Cards______________________________________________________ Napkins_______________________________________________________________ Favors__________________________________________________________________ Welcome Sign_______________________________________________________ Reception Sign______________________________________________________ Bar Sign_______________________________________________________________ Seating Sign__________________________________________________________ Specialty Items______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

31

WEDDING ATTIRE MY OUTFIT

PARTNER'S OUTFIT

Designer | Size | Color | Boutique | Style

Designer | Size | Color | Boutique | Style

STORY BEHIND MY OUTFIT

STORY BEHIND THEIR OUTFIT

MY FAVORITE DETAIL

THEIR FAVORITE DETAIL

WHO WENT SHOPPING WITH ME

WHO WENT SHOPPING WITH THEM

Date Ordered ___________________________________________________

Date Ordered ___________________________________________________

Date Promised __________________________________________________

Date Promised __________________________________________________

FITTING APPOINTMENTS

FITTING APPOINTMENTS

1. __________________________________________________________________

1. __________________________________________________________________

2. __________________________________________________________________

2. __________________________________________________________________

3. __________________________________________________________________

3. __________________________________________________________________

WEDDING DAY ACCESSORIES

WEDDING DAY ACCESSORIES

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

32 WedPlan

WEDDING PARTY ATTIRE MY ATTENDANTS

PARTNER'S ATTENDANTS

Same Styles  Mismatched Styles  Same Colors  Different Colors 

Same Styles  Mismatched Styles  Same Colors  Different Colors 

DETAILS ABOUT THE LOOK

DETAILS ABOUT THE LOOK

ATTENDANT FITTING APPOINTMENTS

ATTENDANT FITTING APPOINTMENTS

1. __________________________________________________________________

1. __________________________________________________________________

2. __________________________________________________________________

2. __________________________________________________________________

3. __________________________________________________________________

3. __________________________________________________________________

4. __________________________________________________________________

4. __________________________________________________________________

5. __________________________________________________________________

5. __________________________________________________________________

6. __________________________________________________________________

6. __________________________________________________________________

7. __________________________________________________________________

7. __________________________________________________________________

8. __________________________________________________________________

8. __________________________________________________________________

9. __________________________________________________________________

9. __________________________________________________________________

WEDDING DAY ACCESSORIES

WEDDING DAY ACCESSORIES

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

33

FLOWERS FLORIST Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ FLOWER CHOICES

NOTES: Bouquet(s)____________________________________________________________ Attendant Bouquet(s)______________________________________________ Boutonnieres ________________________________________________________ Flowers For Hair___________________________________________________ Flower Girl __________________________________________________________ Corsages ______________________________________________________________ Ceremony Entrance_______________________________________________ Aisle Decor__________________________________________________________ Ceremony Backdrop ______________________________________________ Memorial_____________________________________________________________ Reception Entrance________________________________________________ Guest Book Table___________________________________________________ Escort Card Display_______________________________________________ High Top Cocktail Tables________________________________________ Hors d’oeuvres Area_______________________________________________ Table Centerpieces_________________________________________________ Dessert Table________________________________________________________ Reception Ceiling & Chandeliers______________________________ Toss Bouquet ________________________________________________________ Bar _____________________________________________________________________ Lounges_______________________________________________________________ Signage Accents____________________________________________________ Bathroom Arrangements________________________________________ 34 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

FOOD CATERER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ NOTES Presentation _________________________________________________________ Serving Style ________________________________________________________ Table Settings _______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

COCKTAIL HOUR MENU Hors d'oeuvres______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Drinks_________________________________________________________________ RECEPTION MENU Final Guest Count__________________________________________________ Menu __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Late-Night Snacks_________________________________________________ After-Party Snacks_________________________________________________ Drinks_________________________________________________________________ GETTING READY LUNCH MENU Total Count of People _____________________________________________ Menu__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Drinks ________________________________________________________________

35

BAR BARTENDER Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ BEVERAGES Wine __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Beer ___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Signature Cocktails _______________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Non-Alcoholic _____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Champagne __________________________________________________________ TIP: Glasses Per Bottle Liquor=16 mixed drinks Wine=4 glasses Champagne=6 glasses WEDDING BAR SHOPPING LIST Alcohol _______________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Mixers ________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Garnishes ____________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

36 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

DESSERTS BAKER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ NOTES Favorite Flavor #1 __________________________________________________ Favorite Flavor #2 _________________________________________________ Favorite Flavor #3 _________________________________________________ Buttercream or Fondant _________________________________________ Cake Stand or Rental _____________________________________________ Sugar Art ____________________________________________________________ Decoration ___________________________________________________________ Delivery Options & Fee __________________________________________ Additional Fees _____________________________________________________ DESCRIBE CAKE

ADDITIONAL SWEET TREATS

TIP: Cake Sizes & Servings 6" Round serves 4-6 8" Round serves 8-10 10" Round serves 20-24

7"x11" Sheet serves 12-15 9"x13" Sheet serves 20-24 11"x15" Sheet serves 35-40 12"x18" Sheet serves 50-55

37

PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ MUST HAVE SHOTS

TIP: Photography Time Blocking Getting Ready 1HR

Wedding Party 1HR

First Look 15 MIN

Family Photos 45 MIN

Romantic 1 HR

Golden Hour 15 MIN

VIDEOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHER Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

38 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

MUSIC PROCESSIONAL FOR PARTNER

PROCESSIONAL FOR YOU

PROCESSIONAL FOR WEDDING PARTY

WEDDING PARTY & COUPLE INTROS

SPECIAL DANCES

FIRST DANCE

FAMILY TRADITION DANCES

LAST DANCE

TOP 10 MUST-PLAY SONGS 1. _______________________________________________________________

6. _______________________________________________________________

2. _______________________________________________________________

7. _______________________________________________________________

3. _______________________________________________________________

8. _______________________________________________________________

4. _______________________________________________________________

9. _______________________________________________________________

5. _______________________________________________________________

10. _______________________________________________________________

DO NOT PLAY

ENTERTAINMENT OUTSIDE GUEST ACTIVITIES

INSIDE GUEST ACTIVITIES

39

REGISTRY WEDDING WEBSITE WHERE WE REGISTERED

FAVORITE GIFTS WE REGISTERED FOR

GIFTS TO GIVE WEDDING PARTY

FAMILY

OTHER

SOCIAL MEDIA HASHTAG IDEAS

SNAPCHAT GEOFILTERS Engagement Party  Wedding Shower  Pre-Wedding Weekends  Wedding Day 

40 WedPlan

REHEARSAL VENUE LOCATION Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________ Who Will Host _____________________________________________________ Guest Count _________________________________________________________ Theme _________________________________________________________________ Date & Time ________________________________________________________ Menu__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________

Drinks ________________________________________________________________

TRANSPORTATION Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________

 Bach Parties

Website _______________________________________________________________

 Couple to Ceremony

Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

 Couple to Reception  Couple to Hotel

Day & Time _________________________________________________________

 Guests to Ceremony

Type ___________________________________________________________________

 Guests to Reception

Number of Hours _________________________________________________

 Guests to Hotel

Capacity ______________________________________________________________

 Transport to Airport

41

DAY-OF TIMELINE 6 am 7 am

ITEMS TO REMEMBER FOR WEDDING DAY:  Marriage license

8 am 9 am

 Personal wedding vows and readings  Letter to spouse  All clothing, shoes, and accessories

10 am

 All jewelry (bridal, attendants, wedding rings)

11 am

 Unity Symbol (and lighter if necessary)

12 pm 1 pm 2 pm

 Guest book and pen  Programs  Flowers (if not delivered by florist) including corsages, boutonnières, bouquets, etc.  Ceremony decor

3 pm 4 pm 5 pm 6 pm 7 pm

 Send-off items (birdseed, bubbles, doves, butterflies, balloons, sparklers, ribbon wands, etc.)  Remaining vendor payments & tips  Emergency Kit  ____________________________________________________  ____________________________________________________  ____________________________________________________

8 pm

 ____________________________________________________

9 pm

TIPS:

10 pm

Provide a timeline to your entire wedding party, family, and those participating in your wedding.

11 pm 12 am

42 WedPlan

Be sure to carve out a few quiet moments with your new spouse and breath each other in. The day will fly by, savor your moments.

ADDITIONAL VENDORS WEDDING PLANNER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

WEDDING ATTIRE Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

WEDDING ATTIRE Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

MARRIAGE LICENSE LOCATION Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Date Needed ________________________________________________________

43

ENGAGEMENT RING JEWELER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

WEDDING BAND JEWELER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

HAIR STYLIST Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

MAKEUP ARTIST Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

44 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

CEREMONY MUSICIAN/DJ Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

COCKTAIL HOUR MUSICIAN/DJ Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

RECEPTION MUSICIAN/DJ Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

45

RENTAL COMPANY Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

WEDDING NIGHT HOTEL ROOM Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

DANCE LESSONS Name__________________________________________________________________ Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

46 WedPlan

REVIEW o ut of 5

TRAVEL AGENT Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

OTHER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

OTHER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

OTHER Name__________________________________________________________________

REVIEW o ut of 5

Contact________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________________ Website _______________________________________________________________ Social Tags ___________________________________________________________

47

AFTER THE WEDDING CHANGING YOUR NAME

HONEYMOON

Obtain a copy of your new marriage certificate from the Register of Deeds. Take your certificate to the Social Security Office to change your name. You may now begin to use your new name. Then, take the certificate to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain a new ID that reflects your name change.

Destination _______________________________________________

Update each of the following with your new name:

Departure Date _________________________________________ Return Date ______________________________________________ Must See __________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Restaurants to try ______________________________________

 Banks

_______________________________________________________________

 Medical Care Provider

_______________________________________________________________

 Contracts

Tours, Trails, Parks ____________________________________

 Mortgage Lender

_______________________________________________________________

 Professional License

_______________________________________________________________

 County Tax Assessor

Travel Notes:_____________________________

 Credit Card Companies

________________________________________

 Employer (fill out new W-2)

________________________________________

 Wisconsin Dept. of Revenue  Estate Planning/Retirement Documents  U.S. Passport

THANK-YOU CARDS

 Insurance Companies

Mail out within three months of wedding day.

 U.S. Postal Service

Send a thank you to parents, vendors, or anyone who gave you a gift or played an important role in your wedding.

 Investment Companies  Utility Company  Leases

WHAT TO INCLUDE:

 Voter Registration

We recommend notes be handwritten and personal. Thanking your guests for the specific gift they gave is a nice touch.

 Legal Documents  Wills NOTE: It is a felony to make copies of a marriage certificate. If proof is required, send your actual certificate with a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a request that they return it to you.

Share how you plan to use or enjoy the gift.

Express why you're thankful for them. This could include what they mean to you, something they did for you, or a fun shared memory from your wedding day.

TIP: If you are changing your name, it is often best to do this after your honeymoon to ensure all your identification is consistent and accurate, allowing for a smooth travel experience.

48 WedPlan

ENJOY MARRIED LIFE &

Congratulations from WedPlan!

WEDDING SHOWS Experience the

DIFFERENCE

wedplanlax.com ...It's worth the drive!

49

50 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

INVITING GUESTS GUEST LIST

|

52

SAVE-THE-DATES

|

53

INVITATIONS

|

53

INVITATION SUITES

|

54

INVITATION WORDING IDEAS

|

56

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

51

GUEST LIST

The B-List

Whether you're looking for an intimate gathering

Some couples choose to have a

with close family and friends or a larger celebration,

secondary guest list of people to invite

selecting your guest list and guest count can be

once they hear back from those unable

one of the most challenging parts of planning your

to attend from their initial list. There

wedding. Your guests share one of the most special

are varying opinions on this option,

days of your life with you and your partner, so it is

but it's truly up to you and your

very important to agree on this list together. Your

partner if a "B-List" is something you

guest list should be decided right away as it will

want to consider.

determine other factors like venue capacity, food choices, guest experiences, and overall budget.

Keeping your guest list and information in a spreadsheet like Google Sheets or Excel is helpful to keep track of the information and to easily send it to your stationer for addressing save-the-dates and invitations!

If you do plan on mailing your invitations in stages, we recommend sending your initial invitations earlier than usual so that your second round of invitations isn't sent too close to the wedding day. Consider asking guests to reply online via email or your wedding website to expedite the

SPREADSHEET COLUMNS

process.

COLUMN 1: Guest Names

If you are concerned that someone

COLUMN 2: And Family or And Guest

may find out they are on your B-List,

COLUMN 3: Street Address COLUMN 4: City COLUMN 5: State COLUMN 6: Zip Code COLUMN 7: Number of Guests Invited COLUMN 8: Number of Adults Attending COLUMN 9: Number of Kids Attending COLUMN 10: Dietary Restrictions COLUMN 11: Food Choice COLUMN 12: Assigned Table Number

52 WedPlan

it is recommended not to have family or friends that know each other on the two separate lists.

SAVE-THE-DATES Save-the-dates are sent to guests to announce your wedding, allowing them to mark their calendars, and make preparations to attend your special day. These are separate from your invitations and typically include details like your names, wedding date, the city and state where the wedding will occur, website URL, and a note that an invitation will follow. We recommend working with your stationer to create a unique and personalized save-the-date to show off your engagement photos, your personality or interests, and a nod to your wedding style and color palette!

Some unique ideas to consider include retro postcards, magnets, scratchoffs, puzzles, tickets, or even a wooden save-the-date!

INVITATIONS Wedding invitations are your official announcement to your guests, inviting them to share in the joy of your special day. They are a crucial part of your wedding stationery suite and set the tone for the event. Unlike save-the-dates, which serve as an early heads-up, wedding invitations provide detailed information about the ceremony, reception, and all the essential logistics. Your wedding invitations typically include your names, wedding date, venue details, RSVP instructions, and sometimes additional inserts like accommodation information and directions.

Working closely with your stationer or designer, you can create personalized invitations that reflect your unique style—whether it's classic, rustic, modern, or themed to match your wedding colors and motifs. Consider adding special touches like custom illustrations, elegant calligraphy, or even incorporating elements from your love story into the design.

Remember, your wedding invitations are not just a piece of paper; they are a cherished keepsake that captures the essence of your love story and the beginning of your journey together as a married couple.

53

INVITATION SUITES

54 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography

Sarah Griggs Photography

Jenna Walker Photography

Jenna Walker Photography

Emily Jean Photography

Orange Door Weddings, True Moua Photography

Gert & Tog Photography

forHisglory Photography

Jenna Walker Photography

LK Bridal Studio

LK Bridal Studio

BP Creationery, Savannah Steiger Photography

55

INVITATION WORDING IDEAS 1

2

With great pleasure

Together with their families

Quinn Everly

Quinn Everly

and

and

Parker Brooks

Parker Brooks

invite you to join them

invite you to the celebration

at the celebration of their marriage

of their marriage

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Saturday, July 20, 2024

4:30 PM

at 4:30 in the afternoon

Venue

Venue

City, State

City, State

Dinner and dancing to follow

Reception to follow

3

4

Mrs. Jessica Everly Mr. William Daniels Mr. and Mrs. Paul Brooks Request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their children Quinn Morgan and Parker James Saturday, the twentieth of July Two thousand twenty-four At half past four in the afternoon Venue City, State Black tie

56 WedPlan

You are invited to the wedding of Quinn & Parker On Saturday The twentieth day of July Two thousand twenty-four At half past four in the afternoon Venue City, State Reception immediately to follow

BP Creationery, Savannah Steiger Photography

57

58 WedPlan

Rachel Traxler Photography | Full Feature on pg 382

YOUR LOOK BRIDAL FASHIONS

|

60

BEAUTY

|

64

BOUQUETS

|

68

FORMALWEAR

|

70

BOUTONNIERES

|

72

RINGS & JEWELRY

|

74

WEDDING PARTY FASHIONS

|

78

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

59

BRIDAL FASHIONS THE GOWN It's your special day, so the look and style of your wedding attire are entirely up to you! Whether you want a classic look, modern fit, whimsical gown, or a statement piece to showcase your unique style, wedding day fashion options are truly endless. While it's good to have some ideas in mind, be open to the advice of the bridal shop professionals. You may be surprised by how stunning a dress looks on you that you weren't initially drawn to on the rack!

We highly encourage shopping with reputable local shops for quality pieces, incredible service, the perfect fit on time, and to support area businesses.

TRAINS Many factors play a part in deciding whether or not to incorporate a train in your wedding day look and of what length. The silhouette of your dress, venue location, event formality, and other elements may help you select from styles such as a Sweep, Chapel, Cathedral, Royal, or even cape-like Watteau style. Your train may be a part of your skirt itself or a detachable piece or overlay connecting at your waist. We suggest practicing walking in your wedding day attire with your shoes and train before the big day to ensure you feel comfortable.

During your ceremony, aisle runners can help keep your train clean as you walk down the aisle. However, when moving between locations, be sure to keep it off the ground. If you can't carry it yourself, have your partner, attendant of honor, or another dedicated person help you.

BUSTLES If you have a train and are not changing outfits for your reception, you will likely want to bustle it. This is a hands-free way to get your train up and out of your way rather than a finger or wrist loop to carry it around with you. Enlist a helper or two to learn how to bustle your train from your bridal shop professional. Remember to account for this time in your wedding day timeline as well!

60 WedPlan

Style Considerations UNDERGARMENTS Feel free to pack the romantic lingerie for later, but practical undergarments are an important detail in your wedding day look. Bring skin-colored Spanx, backless bras, nipple covers, slips, and other options to your fittings. Dance around and have someone take pictures of you at various angles to ensure nothing shows that you don't expect.

We recommend trying on a variety of gown styles to find the one you love, but here are some considerations that may help you narrow down a silhouette that is most flattering for you!

A-LINE (All Body Types) Fitted bodice to the waist with skirt that flares out gradually FIT & FLARE (Pear, Hourglass)

SHOES

Fitted bodice through the hips that flares out just below the hips

You've found the dress of your dreams - now it's

BALL GOWN (Rectangle, Hourglass,

time to choose your shoes! Whether you want to

Pear, Inverted Triangle) Fitted bodice to natural waistline with full wide layered skirt

make a statement or keep it neutral, heel height, comfort, location, terrain, weather conditions, how visible your feet will be, and your overall look should all be factors you consider when making your selection. You may also choose one pair of shoes for walking down the aisle and a different

EMPIRE (All, Petite, Plus-Size) High waist with flowy skirt starting just under the bust

pair for dancing the night away! Remember to

MERMAID (Hourglass, Pear)

bring your shoes along to your fittings and to

Elongated bodice through the hips and thighs, flaring out at the knee

break them in before the wedding day to avoid blisters.

SHEATH (Hourglass, Rectangle) Straight lines, skims along body's natural shape TEA LENGTH (All Body Types) Short hemline that falls just below the knee COCKTAIL (All Body Types) Short and above the knee JUMPSUIT (All Body Types) One-piece, slim-cut or wide-leg pant

61

62 WedPlan

forHisglory Photography

ACCESSORIES

SHOES

JEWELRY

forHisglory Photography

Rachel Traxler Photography

PERFUME

CUSTOM HANGER

JACKET

HATS, VEILS & HAIR ACCENTS

Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

Wild Pines Photography

Emily Jean Photography

Savannah Steiger Photography

63

BEAUTY You want to look and feel like your best self on your wedding day, so consider professional services for hair, makeup, nails, skin, teeth, diet, exercise, and overall health. Confident and pampered, here you come!

HAIR There are so many beautiful options for wedding day hairstyles! Consider the silhouette and neckline of your dress, the vibe of your event, and any humidity or weather. Also consider changing your hairstyle between the ceremony and reception! When you schedule your trial appointment, bring along inspiration to show your stylist and any headpieces, veils, or hair accessories you plan on wearing.

Decide whether you and your wedding party want to head to the salon or have a stylist come onsite to you. Schedule enough stylists in advance for the number of people getting their hair professionally done, and ensure that the schedule fits your timeline of events. Remember to wear something that you don't need to take off over your head as you get ready on your wedding day so that you don't mess up any hair or makeup.

NAILS Between pictures, guests admiring your ring, and all the hugs and handshakes, you'll want to have your nails looking their best! If you desire a more natural nail look, consider a nude polish or a sheer coat after buffing. And don't forget the toes!

NOTE: Nails, hair, makeup, or spa treatments also make great gifts for your wedding party if you're looking for a pampering gift idea for your crew.

64 WedPlan

HAIRSTYLES

Hair: Melanin Beauty Bar

65

MAKEUP Feeling like yourself on your wedding day is important, whether that means a more natural look for your makeup, a bold style, or something in between. Remember, you'll be looking back on images of this day for years to come! Just like your hair, be sure to also schedule a trial appointment with your makeup artist to ensure you are happy with how you look and that the products do not cause any skin irritations. After your trial, check the look of your makeup in various types of lighting and consider what the lighting will be like on your wedding day to see if

Wedding Day Emergency Kit Having a small clutch alongside you at your reception is handy for holding things like lipstick, powder or blotting papers, your room key, mints, and a few tissues. We also recommend having a person of honor, friend, or family member have a bag of other essentials on hand like: Bobby Pins Travel-Size Hair Spray

you need to discuss any adjustments. Determine

Pain Reliever

if you will have makeup services onsite or if

Antacids

you will be traveling to the salon. Coordinate

Period Products

the timeline with your hairstylist as well.

Deodorant

NOTE: It's important to refrain from starting any new routines or regiments close to the wedding day as you do not know how your skin will react.

Fashion Tape Dental Floss Safety Pins Stain Remover Wipes Lint Roller Makeup Makeup Remover Band-Aids Tweezers Bug Spray Sunscreen Q-Tips Phone Charger Scissors Snack Water Bottle Personal Fan

66 WedPlan

MAKEUP STYLES

Makeup: Melanin Beauty Bar

67

BOUQUETS When thinking about your wedding day look, don't forget about another statement accessory: your bouquet! This will serve as an accent piece and complement your entire wedding day look.

When consulting with your floral designer, discuss details like size, shape, texture, and colors to incorporate. Come with pictures of your color palette, gown, wedding party apparel, and images of potential floral styles you like from your mood board.

Your florist will help you understand what florals are available in your wedding season to best match the look you are trying to achieve and suggest what sizes and shapes would work well with the rest of your look. Be sure to have them demonstrate how

Popular Blooms Anemone Anthurium Astilbe Carnation Chamomile Cosmos Dahlia Football Mum Freesia Garden Rose Gypsophila Hydrangea Orchid Peony Protea Ranunculus Rose Snapdragon Stock Veronica

to carry the bouquet based on your chosen style or shape before the big day!

Popular Fillers Air Plant Billy Buttons Bunny Tails Dusty Miller Dried Palm Leaves Eucalyptus Fern Italian Ruscus Lavender Leather Leaf Monstera Leaves Olive Branches Pampas Grass Smilax Succulents

68 WedPlan

BOUQUET STYLES

Gert & Tog Photography

Jenna Walker Photography

Rachel Traxler Photography

Pennycress Studio, Dani Stephenson Photography

Emily Jean Photography

Melody Rose Designs, Larissa Marie Photography

Kingsley Coordination, Savannah Steiger Photography

Melody Rose Designs, Twig & Olive Photography

Skies the Limit, Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

69

FORMALWEAR

Accessorize Necktie

Whether renting or buying elements of your wedding day attire, let your personality shine!

Bring inspiration to your appointment with your formalwear expert, who will help pull styles

Bow Tie Ascot Western Bolo

together that match your taste, complement

Suspenders

your partner's look, and coordinate with the

Belt

overall vibe of the event. Also consider formality, location, and weather when selecting your day-of apparel. Find a reliable shop and remember the

Vest Cummerbund

power of tailoring to get the perfect, flattering fit

Scarf

for you!

Pocket Square Cuff Links

COLOR There are no rules when it comes to colors; however, darker colors like black, dark gray, and navy tend to be more popular for evening or

Socks Pocket or Wrist Watch Boutonniere Footwear

formal events, while colors such as tan, light gray, and dusty blue can soften the tone for a daytime or more casual celebration. Want to be adventurous?

Make a statement with a bold jacket, or rock a full color suit in a unique color! Whatever you decide, keep in mind your wedding day's look, feel, and color palette.

PATTERNS & TEXTURES Spice up your formalwear selection with a floral pattern, pinstripes, or checks! Unique textures like velvet, linen, wool, or corduroy may also subtly elevate your style and give your look an extra element of depth and surprise. Remember, again, the vibe of your day, other wedding members' apparel, and, of course, the season, to pick the perfect material that won't leave you too hot or cold.

70 WedPlan

TIP: Bring extra shirts or under shirts to refresh if needed!

Jenna Walker Photography

71

BOUTONNIERES Boutonnieres are typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, ushers, and ring bearers, but are also commonly worn by special guests, such as fathers and grandfathers. Opting for a pinned boutonniere? These should be attached to the left lapel or in the buttonhole of the left lapel. To ensure you don't damage the fabric, avoid pinning them to a satin lapel and consider using a magnet to secure them instead. Pocket boutonnieres are a new trend where florals, ribbons, and filler are attached to the top of a cardboard piece cut to the size of the breast pocket of a tux or suit - no pinning required! The colors and style should mimic that of other flowers in the ceremony, like bouquets. Boutonnieres also allow the opportunity for a fun or personalized element to be tied into the design.

NOTE: If you decide on pinned boutonnieres, make sure someone who knows how to attach them is around to assist before your ceremony.

Pennycress Studio, Wild Pines Photography

72 WedPlan

BEYOND THE BOUTONNIERE

FLOWER BOW TIE

FLORAL LAPEL

Copper Antler Photography

Copper Antler Photography

POCKET FLORAL

SUSPENDER FLORAL ACCENT

daffodil*parker, Larissa Marie Photography

Rhonda Rogers Photography

73

RINGS Shopping for rings is such an exciting time in the wedding planning process! From ready-to-wear to

Cleaning Your Ring

custom design, there are countless gorgeous options for metals, materials, and gemstones to make your wedding rings uniquely yours and your partner's.

Trust a reputable professional to help you find a metal that works well with your lifestyle and occupation, and stones that are the cut, color, and clarity you desire.

Daily ring-wearing means that it needs a good cleaning from time to time.

Bring your ring back to that sparkly brand new look with a professional cleaning from your jeweler once every

Cost will vary depending on the elements chosen,

6-12 months. Be sure to give them the

so it is helpful to have a budget and general vision in

information on all the stones in your

mind. Arrive at your consultation with photos of your

ring when you take it in to help ensure

favorite designs for inspiration! Ask about adding

no damage is done.

special touches and personalization, like unique metals, textured finishes, or custom engraving. After

For in-between cleaning, do not use

your wedding day, continue with basic cleanings and

any chemical cleaner as it could cause

have stones checked quarterly for loose or broken

permanent damage. Your jeweler will

settings.

typically give you a safe ring-cleaning

NOTE: Remember to check with your insurance company on ring coverage!

solution, or you can combine a few drops of gentle dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water and soak your jewelry for five minutes. Gently clean around

JEWELRY Your wedding day jewelry goes beyond the ring!

Maybe you'll choose classic pieces with pearls or diamonds, something dainty and whimsical, or something bold to show off your unique style and personality. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements your dress, hair, and makeup rather than distract from them. Have you been given a beautiful heirloom? These items can be worn or used to adorn your bouquet or clutch! Ask your bridal stylist or jeweler for help thinking through your accessory selections, whether simple, extravagant, or somewhere in between!

74 WedPlan

the stone and behind the settings with a soft-bristled toothbrush, then wipe dry with a soft cloth.

ONE STRICT EXCEPTION Remember that Opals should never be submerged in water. Use a very soft, dampened cloth with warm, soapy water to wipe clean. Visit your local professional jeweler for a more thorough cleaning.

COLORED GEMS

EMERALD CUT GREEN TOURMALINE

OVAL CUT MORGANITE

CUSHION CUT CITRINE

OVAL CUT PARAÍBA TOURMALINE

ROUND CUT BLUE SAPPHIRE

OVAL CUT PINK TOURMALINE

75

DIAMONDS & METALS

76 WedPlan

WHITE GOLD FUSION DIAMOND

SCALLOPED DIAMOND HALO

WHITE GOLD OVAL DIAMOND AND HALO

YELLOW GOLD DIAMOND HALO

TWO-TONE DIAMOND FLOWER

ROSE GOLD DIAMOND HALO

WEDDING BANDS

ROSE-TONE AND WHITE TUNGSTEN

BLACK TUNGSTEN WITH METEORITE

TUNGSTEN WITH WOOD AND ANTLER

BRUSHED-BLACK TUNGSTEN WOOD

SILVER BRUSHED WITH GROOVES

TUNGSTEN WITH GREEN CARBON FIBER

77

WEDDING PARTY FASHIONS Who do you envision standing by your side on your wedding day? How big of a wedding party do you want? After you've confirmed who is participating in your special day, it's time to think about their attire for your celebration. Don't be afraid to stray from traditional wedding party line-ups and fashions! Consider having a different number of people or different genders on each side or not having anyone stand up with you at all. Fun additions to the wedding party line-up include flower girls, flower grandmas, ring bearers, junior bridesmaids, adult beer boys, pets, and personal attendants. When it comes to attire, you can keep things uniform or mix and match styles or colors! It's your day, your way.

For bridesmaids, you may want everyone identical in style and color, or you may want them to find something that matches their body type, skin tone, and budget, but is still within the parameters of your chosen color palette.

There's usually a little more play with dress styles and colors than in suits and tuxes. A groom's attire often varies slightly from groomsmen, such as a different color jacket, vest, or tie. Consider a different color, style, or unique accessory for a special attendant like maid, matron, or man of honor, or best man or woman!

Another detail to think through is shoes. To match or not to match? Again, the choice is yours. Remember to keep functionality, comfort, formality, budgets, location, weather, and your overall vibe in mind. Nobody wants a heel stuck in the dirt as they make their way down the aisle or to have someone show up in cowboy boots at a more formal affair. Have these discussions ahead of time so there are no surprises on the wedding day.

When it comes to wedding party fashions, it's also important to discuss who is paying and style coordination, especially if everyone is not exactly matching. Make sure all your attendants are aware and in agreement before locking them into this exciting, but often costly, commitment.

78 WedPlan

Carlin Christine Creative | Full Feature on pg 380

79

80 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography

CEREMONY CEREMONY LOCATION

|

82

BACKDROP IDEAS

|

83

CEREMONY SEATING

|

84

PROGRAMS & SIGNS

|

86

THE PROCESSIONAL

|

88

MAKING IT LEGAL

|

90

VOWS

|

91

LOVE LETTERS

|

91

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

81

CEREMONY LOCATION It's time to start planning your ceremony! Whether you prefer a house of worship, a courthouse, your dream venue, or another beautiful indoor or outdoor setting, there are a wide variety of ceremony sites to choose from.

Before you start your search, discuss your style, desired features, guest count, budget, and wishlist. If you're having an outdoor ceremony, consider potential weather obstacles and ensure a backup plan. This is the time to determine if you want your ceremony and reception at the same site or different locations. Thinking through these details with your partner will help you narrow your options, decrease stress, save time, and get closer to finding your perfect venue.

Keep in mind, some locations speak for themselves and take little to no transformation, while others may need extra décor to match your desired aesthetic. Some venues offer things like tables, chairs, linens, dishes, and more, while others will need those things to be rented and brought in externally. Be aware of what is available at the site you're looking at, what may still be needed, and the cost associated with those things.

There are pros and cons to any ceremony location, so weigh the venue's amenities against your wishlist and find the one that is the best fit for you and your partner's unique celebration.

CEREMONY BACKDROPS There are a variety of styles and shapes when it comes to ceremony backdrops and installations. Check with your venue to see what may be available onsite, with local rental companies and stationers, or consider creating a custom design of your own! Depending on the desired vibe, you may also want to work with your local florist or balloon artist to adorn your backdrop or for a full breathtaking installation.

82 WedPlan

BACKDROP IDEAS

forHIsglory Photography

Melody Rose Designs, Makayla Mashlan Photography

Carlin Christine Creative

Savannah Steiger Photography

83

CEREMONY SEATING SETUP When it comes to your ceremony seating, one thing to consider is the overall configuration. Stay more traditional with rows of chairs, or try something unique like a circular or semicircular arrangement or even a winding path with clusters of seating throughout a natural setting. Keep the distance you and your guests would need to walk to get to your desired location in mind, as well as the levelness and firmness of the ground if you will be outdoors.

Determine where the aisle or multiple entry points will be, where you and your partner and wedding party will enter and stand, and the guests' viewpoint. Will you be in traditional positions up front, or will you be a central focal point with seating around you? Will your wedding party stand near you, or do you want to designate special seating for them in your setup?

There are many options to consider and room to be creative. Talk to your wedding planner or event designer for ideas and suggestions, or be creative to come up with something entirely new together! Ultimately, your ceremony seating setup will depend on the number of guests you plan on attending.

Gert & Tog Photography

84 WedPlan

SEATING OPTIONS As far as seating itself, you can choose traditional options or mix things up with benches, old church pews, couches, poufs, picnic blankets, hay bales, tree stumps, mismatched chair styles, and more! Consider both comfort and aesthetics when making your selection for ceremony seating.

Whether you're choosing something simple or seating that is more unique, it's important to be intentional with the placement and stay consistent with your wedding vibe. See what your venue offers and compare their selection with local rental companies to find the best fit for your style and needs. Determine if you will be repurposing your ceremony seating for your reception or if you need to have additional seating provided, so everything is in place ahead of time.

Savannah Steiger Photography

85

PROGRAMS & SIGNS

Program Content Artwork or Photo Your Names

Whether welcoming guests, giving direction, sharing special details, or all of the above, you will

Wedding Location & Date Mention of Parents

want to consider programs and signage for your

Wedding Party

ceremony. There are a variety of program formats

Special Attendants or Readers

and materials for signage, so seek inspiration and talk to a stationer or rental company to see

Order of Proceedings

what's available and what they might suggest to

Song Lyrics

fit your ceremony style. Programs may be placed on chairs, presented in a basket or container for

Religious or Cultural Tradition Explanations

guests to grab, or handed out by ushers or other

"In Memory Of" Mentions

special attendants. This is a great job for a younger person you want to include on your wedding day.

Special Message from The Couple Turn Off Cell Phones & Cameras Reminder

CEREMONY SIGNS: Welcome Directionals Timeline of Events Wedding Party Introduction "Unplugged" Ceremony Notice Note About Seating A Quote or Other Personalized Message

86 WedPlan

Thank You Note

Copper Antler Photography

87

THE PROCESSIONAL There are traditional pairings and orders for the processional, but like anything else in your wedding, remember that this is your day, your way.

Feel free to adjust the sample of a traditional processional order given on the next page to fit your and your partner's specific details, or throw it out altogether and create a unique entrance of your own. Consider walking down the aisle alone or having a friend or family member escort you. Your wedding party can walk as individuals, in pairs, in groups, or enter from the side together.

Depending on your seating setup, you can be creative with where you and your wedding party enter. For example, if you have a circular seating arrangement, you could create two side aisles for each side of the wedding party to enter from, while you and your partner make a grand entrance down the center to the middle of the circle. Whatever you decide, be sure your aisle is wide enough for different configurations of pairings, and for wheelchairs. Also make sure everyone has clear instructions or rehearsal of where to enter, in what order, and where to stand or be seated once they reach the altar.

Special guests, such as grandparents or Godparents, may be escorted down the aisle prior to the wedding party entering. If any parents are not walking down the aisle with either of you, they are typically still part of the processional. They may enter together, individually, or be escorted.

There are options when it comes to how to escort as well. You can hold hands, lock arms, or simply walk side by side. If you have both parents escorting you with a bouquet in your hands, they can simply walk by your side, have a hand on your back, or lightly hold your arm just above the elbow.

Overall, for your processional, do what's best for your family dynamics, the size of your wedding party, and what you envision for your special day.

These decisions should be based on what is important to you as a couple for this momentous occasion. Everyone else should be respectful of your wishes. It's your day!

88 WedPlan

Processional Order

CEREMONY MUSIC & SOUND

Below is a sample of a traditional

You and your partner can decide if you want

to fit you as a couple, your wedding

live or recorded music during your processional,

party, and special guests.

processional order. Feel free to adjust

recessional, or other parts of your ceremony. Talk to your venue, DJ, or live musicians about what is available and needed to have power, quality sound, and appropriate volume. Coordinate with your videographer to see what they need or have available to capture the sound throughout your

Officiant Groom's Grandparents Bride's Grandparents

ceremony as well.

Groom's Parents

Consider a clip-on mic for the officiant and you or

Bride's Mother

your partner. Remember microphones for anyone

Groom

else speaking, reading, or singing throughout the ceremony. It's important that any mics, speakers, and sound systems are checked before ceremony time.

For the recessional, you should decide if you and your new spouse want to return to usher your guests out by rows, or have a receiving line in the

Wedding Party Maid of Honor & Best Man Ring Bearer Flower Girl Bride & Father

back of the ceremony or later at the reception.

Consider who will be involved in that and in what order they will stand.

89

MAKING IT LEGAL

OFFICIANT Choosing who you want to officiate your ceremony is an important decision! An experienced officiant can help you plan and personalize your ceremony, but if you are thinking of having a family member or friend take on this role, be sure to check the laws of the state or country you're getting married in for their rules and guidelines. Meet with your officiant several times before your wedding day to create and craft a ceremony that represents the two of you and your unique love.

MARRIAGE LICENSE Here in Wisconsin, you can obtain a marriage license from a county clerk.

You and your future spouse must apply in person. Locate a nearby County Clerk's office online and schedule an appointment two months before your wedding date. Licenses are typically valid for a specific number of days following a waiting period. For more information, check online for current marriage license laws in your area.

Copper Antler Photography

90 WedPlan

VOWS Creating personal vows for your soon-to-be spouse is meaningful for your partner and can be touching, insightful, or amusing for your guests. You may stumble, cry, forget a line, or lose your place, but it doesn't matter when it's coming from your heart in that special moment. Keep in mind that these don't have to be memorized! Reading your prepared vows can help you feel comfortable and confident.

NOTE: You may want to talk about and practice your first kiss to avoid any awkwardness with what "type" of kiss you're doing. Once you have a plan, share the kiss strategy with your photographer and videographer.

LOVE LETTERS If reciting vows or personal thoughts in front of a group isn't for you, consider meeting with your partner privately. Many couples choose to write each other a letter to read during their first look. If you prefer not to see each other before your ceremony, consider a "first touch" instead. Stand back-to-back or around a corner, hold hands, and be sure you can clearly hear each other's voices. Also, consider whether you'd like the company of others, such as a photographer or videographer, or prefer an intimate moment just between the two of you.

If you decide not to read aloud or want a moment alone to soak in your partner's words, simply exchange letters during a quiet part of the day. This allotted time can also be perfect for exchanging additional gifts if you have chosen to do so. Oh, and don't forget a tissue or two!

NOTE: Our best advice is to save your letters and re-read them on each anniversary, reminding each other what you loved about them that day and what you continue to love about them now. You can even write new letters each year as you grow in your love.

91

92 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography

RECEPTION RECEPTION LOCATION

|

94

LAYOUT

|

96

RECEPTION SIGNS

|

98

GUEST EXPERIENCES

|

100

MUSIC

|

102

SEND-OFF

|

103

AFTER-PARTY

|

103

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

|

104

TRANSPORT

|

105

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

93

RECEPTION LOCATION It's the party of your lifetime; where do you begin? If your reception is at the same venue as your ceremony, you've already found your celebratory location! Looking for a reception location separate from your ceremony venue? Make sure to coordinate with both venues to ensure that available dates align. You may come in with dates already in mind, or you may need to be flexible to match the openings of your dream location!

Consider your budget, style, overall vibe, and guest count to help narrow your venue choices. From a rustic barn to an elegant tent, your favorite restaurant or winery, to a sparkling lakefront or glamorous ballroom, many beautiful options will match the ambiance you desire for your wedding day. Will your reception be indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both? You may also create new and unique atmospheres for your guests to experience throughout your event as they transition from a cocktail hour to a meal onto dancing. Remember to always have a plan for inclement weather!

Hatchery, Rachel Traxler Photography

94 WedPlan

HISTORIC LUXURY

Hatchery, Rachel Traxler Photography

TIMELESS CLASSIC

MODERN CHIC

Celebrations on the River, Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

VINTAGE CHARM

The Cargill Room at The Waterfront, Rachel Traxler Photography

B's Place, Evan Sowder Photography

RUSTIC ELEGANCE

OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS

Horstmann Homestead Farm, Wild Pines Photography

Sarah Griggs Photography

95

LAYOUT

Rentals From tables, linens, and dinnerware

When considering your reception layout, the

to unique touches like signage, lounge

best place to start is with your vendors! Their

furniture, specialty lighting, and unique

knowledge, past experience, and teamwork with

displays, area rental and event design

other professionals will help you tremendously

companies have what you need to take

when planning what goes where. Your venue

your wedding look to the next level!

should have suggestions of layouts that work well and offer a good flow for transitioning between spaces, but feel free to think outside the box to design an event that is uniquely yours!

You may be starting with a blank outdoor canvas and need a tent or canopy to house your celebration, or you may be curating unique spaces

Even if you have your own creative ideas, a

within your reception venue with chic

wedding planner or designer will help enhance

draping, furniture, or decor pieces.

those ideas and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Rental items help meet practical needs

You'll want to consider tables, food and dessert

and allow you to express your style,

stations, bar areas, the dance floor, lounge

giving guests the ultimate experience!

furniture, and reception entertainment. If you choose an outdoor event or a nontraditional venue, remember to plan for restrooms, parking, and any needed accessibility.

Regardless of your venue, it is wise to avoid placing elderly guests close to any speakers. Additionally, put a kids' table away from anything that could tempt mischief. Ensure guests in wheelchairs have adequate mobility throughout the space.

Remember to plan space for food lines if you will be having a buffet. Your venue or event designer may offer helpful diagrams with dimensions to work from, or check online for sites that offer programming for mapping out events.

96 WedPlan

Carlin Christine Creative

97

RECEPTION SIGNS While aesthetically pleasing, reception signage serves an even greater purpose at your event: to inform your guests. Talk with your stationer, rental company, and event designer about curating intentional, beautiful signage for your special day. Here are a few we recommend including at your reception:

DIRECTIONALS Start by directing your guests where to go upon arrival and guiding the flow throughout the day.

SEATING If you have assigned seating for the meal, seating charts are essential for letting guests know the table they will be at and the names of their dining companions.

BAR Bar signs let guests know if it's an open bar or cash bar, what is being served, and any offerings of special signature cocktails or mocktails.

GUEST SIGNING Be sure to place the guest sign-in area in a prominent location with complementary signage that attracts attention and gives instructions.

FAVORS If you choose to have favors at your reception, have a sign next to them to draw attention, explain any special meaning, and to give a special thankyou message.

STATEMENT INSTALLATIONS Couples have been making some big statements with backdrop installs that include neon signs, custom printing, or laser-cut wooden letters.

98 WedPlan

Orange Door Weddings, B's Place, 4 Sisters Events, Express Printing, Evan Sowder Photography

99

GUEST EXPERIENCES Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, and making it unforgettable is a priority for many couples. One way to elevate your day is by creating unique experiences for your wedding guests. From a photo booth that captures joyful moments to a live wedding artist who turns your ceremony into a beautiful piece of art, the possibilities are endless.

As the reception begins, consider unique guest sign-ins, like a finger print tree, or an audio guest book station. These are fun experiences, and also create cherished keepsakes. Whether through the audio guest book messages or handwritten notes, encourage guests to offer their wisdom, humor, and best advice for the next part of your journey.

Incorporating games into the celebration also adds fun and friendly competition to the day. Consider a scavenger hunt, a trivia quiz about the couple, or a dance-off. If you have access to an outdoor space, classic yard games like cornhole, Jenga, or horseshoes provide fun for all ages!

Tribute Films & Photography

100 WedPlan

TRENDING EXPERIENCES

LIVE WEDDING PAINTING Larissa Marie Photography

KIDS' COLORING PAGES Sarah Griggs Photography

CIGAR BOX

Sarah Griggs Photography

AUDIO GUEST BOOK Alexa Kate Photography

GAMES

Alder & Root Photography

SLIP & SLIDE

Copper Antler Photography

101

MUSIC Whether you prefer a DJ, live band, dueling

Music Opportunities

pianos, or a combination, hire professionals to

Getting Ready

ensure a good time! The music will set the mood

Guest Arrival

of your wedding and can make or break the party.

From your cocktail hour to the last dance of the

Processional

evening, choosing the right musicians, DJs,

Ceremony

entertainment companies, or a combination of

Recessional

these is an important decision to make for your wedding day. Even if you have live music, you may

Cocktail Hour

also want to consider a DJ to keep the party going

Dinner Music

while the band is between sets. It's important to

Grand Entrance

choose professionals with the personality, style, and music selection to represent you as a couple

First Dance

and match the vibe of your event. We recommend

Special Dances

creating a "do not play" list as well to help curate

Last Dance

your song selection!

Send-Off After-Party

EMCEE Inquire with your chosen DJ company about their capacity to offer the services of a master of ceremonies, alongside their expertise in managing music, lighting, and other production aspects. A master of ceremonies, often referred to as an emcee, plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the seamless progression of your reception events.

Be sure to establish the extent and timing of your emcee's role in advance.

SOUND & AV Remember any additional needs for sound and AV equipment, such as projectors, screens, and handheld microphones for toasts. These items may be sourced from your venue, DJ, or rental company.

102 WedPlan

SEND-OFF You may choose to stay until the last dance or prefer to do a romantic send-off before your guests depart! Does a fancy limo, classic car, boat, or hot air balloon sound like your dream exit? Just remember, if you leave early, you should have a clean-up crew, as well as a plan for transporting gifts and returning any rental items. No matter your ride, be sure to use a sober driver. You may also choose to just say goodbye to close family and friends, make a formal announcement, or coordinate a fun send-off activity with sparklers or a tunnel of love for you and your new spouse to walk through as you depart.

AFTER-PARTY Looking to keep the party going? How about an after-party! This is a more casual and exclusive gathering after the dancing ends. Depending on your venue's rules, you could stay onsite in a different space or specially created lounge, move to the hotel bar, or have a campfire on a patio or green space.

If you're a late-night couple, the after-party allows for more personal time with those closest to you. If you go this route, remember not to plan too early for a next-day brunch or gift opening. Consider seating options, music, late-night snacks, drinks, and if any additional activities will be involved. It can be relaxing after your long day to just kick back and enjoy the company of your loved ones!

103

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS ROOM BLOCKS If you're planning to have family and friends travel in from out of town to celebrate with you on your special day, you will want to make them feel welcome and special throughout their entire trip. Preparing guest accommodations, like holding a block of hotel rooms, is helpful to ensure that your guests will have overnight accommodations in the area. Even local guests may choose to stay and participate in all of the weekend's festivities!

WELCOME BASKETS Providing special welcome baskets or goodie bags with local merchandise, a guidebook with points of interest, weekend itineraries, gift cards, treats, or a personal thank-you note is a perfect touch to make your guests feel extra loved and welcomed when they arrive.

Discuss the details with the hotel and determine if they are willing to distribute the gift baskets or bags as guests check-in, leave them in each room, or if you need to distribute them yourself.

104 WedPlan

TRANSPORT

Vehicle Options UP TO 2 PASSENGERS

Ride in style for pre-wedding parties and on the

Vintage, Sports, or Luxury Car

big day! Your mode of transportation can reflect

Sedan Limousine

the feel of your celebration, or it can simply be a

Horse Drawn Carriage

convenience getting you and your guests to and

Moped or Motorcycle

from your hotel, ceremony, photo stops, reception,

Tandem Bicycle

or other wedding-related events. Not to mention, it's a safe ride at the end of your event and a friendly accommodation to offer to your guests.

Golf Cart Sleigh

Check with your hotel for shuttle service or find

Canoe

a local company for other transportation options!

Horseback Hot Air Balloon

RIDE CONSIDERATIONS

UP TO 6 PASSENGERS

• To the Ceremony

Vintage or Classic Limousine

• Between Ceremony & Reception

Luxury SUV

• To the Reception • To the Hotel • Safe Ride Options • Pre- or Post-Wedding Parties • Airport Transportation

SUV Limousine Sailboat UP TO 10 PASSENGERS Stretch Limousine VW Bus UP TO 22 PASSENGERS Limo Bus Stretch SUV OVER 22 PASSENGERS Limo Bus Trolley School or Coach Bus Double Decker Bus or Limo

105

106 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

TABLE DESIGN TABLE OPTIONS

|

108

SEATING STYLES

|

110

SEATING ARRANGEMENTS

|

112

LINENS

|

114

CENTERPIECES

|

116

PLACE SETTINGS

|

118

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

107

TABLE OPTIONS

Special Tables Think through any special seating for you and your partner, your wedding party and their plus-ones, parents,

Tables come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. To help you determine what tables to use, you'll need to consider the style, size, and layout of your reception. See what your venue offers, and explore the variety of options from local rental companies! Work with your

kids, or other special guests!

Sweetheart Table Head Table King's Table

planner, designer, and venue to create the perfect

Kids' Table

configuration for your needs. You may choose to

Reserved Tables

stay consistent in table shape and size or mix and match them to create your desired look. Consider creative table alternatives such as unique shelving units or other display furnishings for areas like guest sign-in, gifts, favors, food and drink stations, cake and dessert displays, and more!

Considering sitting alone, just the two of you? Sweetheart tables are not only more intimate but also allow the wedding party to sit with their plus ones or other mutual friends.

Place your wedding party, parents and

TABLE SIZING When selecting your tables, keep in mind the size and look of your desired centerpieces, the amount of food or other items that will be placed on the table, and if you want linens. Ask your designer to create mock table setups to envision the final result. You will want to discuss the choices and share any images with your floral or rental company involved in the creation of your centerpieces as well as your caterer when you are considering food serving options. We recommend placing specific orders once all vendors involved understand the overall picture.

108 WedPlan

grandparents closest to you. If you want to sit with your wedding party, you can decide whether or not to include their plus-ones at the head table or king's table.

KINGS TABLE

Celebrations on the River, Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

ROUND GUEST TABLE Kanyon Photography

SWEETHEART TABLE Savannah Steiger Photography

HEAD TABLE

Rachel Traxler Photography

HARVEST TABLE

Savannah Steiger Photography

HIGH COCKTAIL TABLES

The Cargill Room at The Waterfront, Rachel Traxler Photography

109

SEATING STYLES Just as there are options for tables, there are also many options for seating!

You'll want to consider both the style and comfort level for you and your guests when making your selection. Do you want all the seating to be the same, mix and match, or include any specialty seating for you or your wedding party? Are you repurposing any seating that was used at the ceremony? Also consider guests with special seating accessibility needs (wheelchair space, child's high chair, etc.)

Finding out what is available through your venue and local rental companies can help you see the variety of existing options to complete your desired look and complement your table design. Talk with your florist, stationer, and designer about any ideas for accent pieces on your chairs. The simplest details won't go unnoticed and can enhance your overall reception look!

CHIAVARI CHAIRS Orange Door Weddings, The Cargill Room at The Waterfront, Rachel Traxler Photography

110 WedPlan

SPECIALTY SEATING

CROSS BACK CHAIRS & SPECIALTY SEATING

AliLou Events, Dani Stephenson Photography

Resource Vintage Rental, Rachel Traxler Photography

BENTWOOD CHAIRS

RUSTIC FARM CHAIRS

Hatchery, Rachel Traxler Photography

Rachel Traxler Photography

111

SEATING ARRANGEMENTS SEATING CHARTS Including a seating chart is optional, but it is often recommended by vendors. You can let guests choose their own seats, predetermine which table each guest will sit at, or even go as far as to assign guests a specific seat at a table. If you and your partner decide to select guests' tables or places, you will want to start your chart as soon as RSVPs come in. Group guests by how you know them, like family members, high school friends, college friends, work friends, or by location. Keep couples and immediate families together, and try to seat people by someone they know. Avoid seating people together where there could be an uncomfortable situation.

Remember that your seating chart may change, but confirm the final list with your stationer at least two weeks from your wedding, depending on what you are creating with them.

ESCORT CARDS & PLACE CARDS Both escort cards and place cards help your guests find their spot at your reception, but there is a significant difference between them. Escort cards guide guests to a specific table while place cards direct them to their specific seat or "place." You may include one or both of these cards in your creative seating signage for your reception! If you are serving a plated meal, remember to have a notation of your guest's meal choice on their card along with their name. Ask your stationer about the unique material and display options for these!

TABLE MARKERS A table marker is a way to distinguish one table from another. You may choose to use simple table numbers or another creative option like cities you've lived in or visited or even titles of your and your partner's favorite movies! Work with your stationer to create table markers that are clearly visible for your guests, and consider whether or not to use visuals on your actual seating chart to help them find their way.

112 WedPlan

SEATING CHARTS

LK Bridal Studio, Carlin Christine Creative

ESCORT CARDS

Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

TABLE MARKERS Kanyon Photography

SEATING CHARTS

Savannah Steiger Photography

113

LINENS TABLECLOTHS Depending on your wedding style and choice of table, the decision to have a tablecloth is entirely up to you! Standard banquet tables need something to cover them up, whereas a beautiful harvest table would not. Work with your designer, rental companies, and venue to find and curate the perfect base layer for your table decor. There are a variety of tablecloth options when it comes to colors, textures, patterns, and lengths! Take note of your table measurements and decide what matches the style and formality of your day.

TABLE RUNNERS Whether your table is covered or not, table runners are a beautiful way to layer a touch of elegance, a pop of color, and additional texture!

NAPKINS Napkins also come in various materials, colors, patterns, and textures.

Play around with the different options of folding them or layering them with your menus, name cards, or other accent pieces like napkin rings.

NOTE: Consider purchasing a steamer and designating someone to steam the linens during setup if you don't have a full-service planner already taking on that task.

114 WedPlan

Orange Door Weddings, BBJ La Tavola, daffodil*parker, Larissa Marie Photography

115

CENTERPIECES Centerpieces are an important element in your reception table decor and should coordinate with your wedding's overall style and color palette.

Centerpieces can include floral and greenery, rented or purchased decor, candles, and more! Having a themed wedding? Let your creativity shine by using details nodding to your love of travel, reading, music, or another shared passion.

Gorgeous blooms enhance the look of your wedding day when you work with a floral designer that understands your vision and helps you bring it to life! Schedule a consult to share your ideas and the color palette you have in mind. Be open to the advice and creativity of your floral expert.

These professionals can help you with bloom selections and suggest other rental decor items to curate designs that stay within your budget. Today's couples want a unique experience and atmosphere for their guests, so feel free to think outside the box of traditional centerpieces and create a look that is uniquely yours!

Ensure your centerpieces are either high enough or low enough as to not obstruct your guests' view of each other, or their view of you and your partner. Check with your venue on any rules related to candles or other table decor elements such as confetti or invasive grasses. Ask your team of professionals about fragrances, as certain smells can sometimes overwhelm guests at mealtime, while others can keep mosquitoes at bay if you are outside.

NOTE: Consider bud vases, votives, or additional stems or greenery to accent the bar, cocktail tables, signage, or other unique displays!

116 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

117

PLACE SETTINGS Both the look and function of place settings are important to consider!

Determine what items you need for your meal and any beverages served, then have fun styling to match your vibe! You could go with simple selections your venue may offer or explore the unique selection of a rental company. Talk to your designer to help coordinate complementing details of materials, colors, and textures for your chargers, dinnerware, glassware, and flatware. Create a mock table display with your designer and florist to ensure everything fits and flows as it should. Take pictures and ensure you are happy with everything before finalizing your orders!

Rachel Traxler Photography

118 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

119

120 WedPlan

Dani Stephenson Photography

FOOD & DRINK CATERING

|

122

RECEPTION TIMELINE

|

123

BAR SERVICE

|

124

THE MEAL

|

126

FUN FOOD IDEAS

|

127

CAKES & DESSERTS

|

128

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

121

CATERING Food and drink, often a major highlight of a wedding celebration, are also one of the most significant expenses. There are plenty of tasty options, from traditional family-style meals, plated sit-down dinners, and buffets, all the way to trendy food trucks and interactive themed stations!

Trust your reception fare to the venue or a local professional caterer, as they will have the expertise to know how much food to prepare as well as the proper equipment to do so. This will reduce the stress on you, your friends, or family members who may try to volunteer for this vast undertaking. A professional caterer will have the correct licensing, credentials, permits, and be familiar with working with venues.

Consider any cultural delicacies or family recipes you want to include, or think about chef-attended food stations, pig roasts, or late-night snacks as well when hiring your vendors! The ultimate guest experience is often created through a variety of culinary options.

Wild Pines Photography

122 WedPlan

RECEPTION TIMELINE COCKTAILS 1 HOUR: Depending on the logistics of your wedding, cocktail hour typically begins immediately following the ceremony if your event is at the same venue. Add travel time needed to reach the reception if it's at a different location.

INVITATION TO DINNER 15 MINUTES: Guests are invited to take their seats for dinner.

GRAND MARCH 10 MINUTES: The newlyweds are formally introduced to wedding guests. Some couples opt to precede their entrance by introducing family or wedding party members.

FIRST DANCE 5 MINUTES: Keep the energy high by transitioning straight into your first dance with your new spouse! You can choose to dance for an entire song or ask your band or DJ to fade out about two minutes in.

WELCOME TOAST 5 MINUTES: Family members, often the parents of the couple, or the couple themselves, offer a reception welcome toast, thanking guests and inviting everyone to enjoy the meal.

DINNER 45 MINUTES: Typically, dinner will last about 45 minutes, depending on the meal-service style you choose.

WEDDING PARTY TOASTS 10 MINUTES: In between courses, wedding-party members are usually invited to say a few words.

CAKE CUTTING 10 MINUTES: If you opt for a cake, this tasty event can be after the first dance if it needs to be plated for your guests or shortly after dinner if it is a self-serve station.

123

BAR SERVICE Bring on the flavor and the fun with unique drink options for you and your guests! From the display aesthetics to the refreshments served, the possibilities are endless. Some couples opt for the traditional bar, sometimes offered at the reception venue, while others hire a mixologist to customize and create their own menus. And if you can't go to the bar, the bar can come to you! Mobile bar services are a fun and trendy way to shake and stir up the party—and some exciting concoctions!

Types of Bar Service OPEN BAR: Open bar is usually a flat rate or per person rate based on guest count. You can host an open bar for a certain amount of time or throughout your entire event.

CONSUMPTION BAR: Similar to an open bar, but rather than paying a

Remember, bar service options can offer more than

flat rate, the host pays for each drink

just alcoholic beverages! From signature cocktails

ordered throughout the event.

and tasty mocktails to coffee, tea, juice carts, soda, smoothie stations, infused waters, and beyond,

CASH BAR: Guests pay for their own

La Crosse boasts an incredible selection of delicious

drinks during a cash bar. This can

drinks and innovative beverage craftsmanship and

help if you have a small budget. Plus,

artistry!

guests typically drink less when they are the ones paying, so this is often a safer option as well. Some couples will

NOTE: Find out what your venue offers and

choose to pay for select beers, wines,

learn any venue or state rules and regulations,

or signature drinks to serve guests in

along with who provides the liability insurance if

an open bar style while having mixed

serving alcohol.

drinks available as a cash bar.

DRY BAR: Simply provide a selection of sodas, juices, or flavored waters.

Add some fun and non-alcoholic options to your event, like a mocktail menu, tea bar, coffee cart, or CBD Bud Bar.

124 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

125

THE MEAL When creating your reception menu, start by deciding if you will be having a dinner, brunch, or

Food Serving Options

possibly a cocktail reception with heavy appetizers in place of a meal. After selecting the type of meal you

PLATED: This is the most formal

will serve, think about how it will be served. We've

reception choice. Guests are seated,

listed some options in the sidebar to discuss with

typically at a designated table, and

your caterer, whether they are through your venue or

served a plated meal. Entrée options

are an outside catering vendor. Remember options

are chosen in advance on the response

for guests with dietary restrictions, and consider

card, and menu cards are often part

having a kid-friendly, less expensive food option if

of the table decor.

children are invited. Your meal choices may be based on the formality of your event or include some of your favorite dishes, a family recipe, ethnic cuisine, or local and seasonal foods. Talk with your caterer about your options, pricing, and schedule a taste test!

BUFFET: Guests can choose their seats and make their way through a buffet line when their table is called.

FAMILY-STYLE: Food is placed on the table in large serving dishes for the guests to pass. Table arrangements can be designated in advance, or guests can choose seats upon arrival.

COCKTAILS & APPETIZERS: This option, before the main meal, offers an opportunity to mingle with your guests or keep guests busy while you're off taking photos. This is also another great option if you decide not to have a full meal and serve more filling appetizers and small bites instead.

There are many creative options and ideas, from gorgeous grazing tables to passed hors d'oeuvres, food trucks, and more!

126 WedPlan

FUN FOOD IDEAS PICNIC OR RELAXED COOKOUT Perfect for a casual wedding, consider picnic fare, cookout, or a pig roast.

If served outdoors, remember to consider ways to keep critters from enjoying your food as well.

FOOD STATIONS Food stations are mini-buffets, with each offering something special, such as a meat carving station, pasta or potato bar, dessert station, or an ethnic or themed station. These are fun alternatives that can cater to your tastes and offer a variety of options for your guests!

FOOD CARTS & TRUCKS Food carts and trucks are a fun, modern addition to the wedding scene.

You may consider sliders, cheese curds, or tacos, to name a few. Be aware of what your venue will allow onsite and if space is available. You can provide various options to make it a meal or have late-night snacks while dancing.

A NOD TO YOUR HERITAGE Honoring your city, state, country, or family heritage in your menu creation can be a personalized and exciting experience for your guests.

Whether you are celebrating Chinese traditions or southern customs, it's easy to marry cultures on your menu. This can be as involved as crafting the entire customized menu or selecting a few special elements, such as appetizers or a cultural dessert.

GRAZING TABLES Grazing tables are ideal if you're looking for buffet-style vibes with a more decadent look, using high-quality ingredients and striking styling to create a delectable dining experience for guests. This option is a great catering route since you can mix, match, and customize the tables to your heart's content. Think platters of meats, veggies, fruits, crackers, and fermented foods arranged in a casual yet beautiful way.

127

CAKES & DESSERTS

Details to Consider SERVING SIZE

Wedding cakes can be artistic masterpieces with

Cake and desserts are typically priced

different shapes, sizes, accents, and of course,

per serving, so know how many

decadent flavors and icing options! Today's

people you need to serve.

couples also often create dessert stations by adding other tasty sweets and treats while still allowing

CAKE SHAPE

the wedding cake to be a gorgeous focal point.

Come with ideas, and let your cake

Talk with your baker and designer to craft the

designer be creative with an edible

perfect cake and desserts that complement your

masterpiece!

color palette, taste preferences, and vibe!

While a traditional table display can be beautiful,

FLAVORS & FILLINGS

explore unique rental pieces and shelving options

Schedule tastings with local bakers to

that will be a statement to your overall design and

help you decide on a flavor you love or

tie in with the style of your day. Stationers can

learn about popular choices.

also adorn your dessert area with creative signage, labels, and creative cake toppers. Consult your

FROSTING

florist about adding blooms or greens to create

There are many options to ask about

your desired look.

and explore, like buttercream, whipped cream, rolled fondant, and more!

DECORATIONS Consider additional accents such as floral, greenery, cake jewelry, ribbon, hand-paintings, geodes, a special cake topper, or other decor for the entire display.

STANDS Buying or renting a cake stand or dessert trays can add elegance and uniqueness to your display.

128 WedPlan

CAKE IDEAS

Gert & Tog Photography

Emily Jean Photography

Cowboy David's Bakery

Meringue Bakery, Dani Stephenson Photography

Gert & Tog Photography

Meringue Bakery, Rachel Traxler Photography

129

130 WedPlan

Gert & Tog Photography

DESSERT OPTIONS

Cowboy David's Bakery

Cowboy David's Bakery

Linda's Bakery, Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

Meringue Bakery

131

132 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography | Full Credits on pg 154

PARTIES PARTY OPTIONS

|

134

SHOWER INSPIRATION

|

135

BEACHY ASK PARTY

|

136

DISCO DOLLY BACH BASH

|

142

90'S BACH PARTY

|

148

CABIN GETAWAY BASH

|

154

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

133

PARTY OPTIONS The celebration begins long before the wedding itself! Enjoy some traditional gatherings or add your own twists with pre- and post-wedding day parties with your family and friends. Looking to spend more than just your wedding day with those you love? Consider creating an agenda for wedding weekend festivities!

ENGAGEMENT PARTY: Celebrate your engagement and allow family and friends to get acquainted before the big day!

WEDDING PARTY PROPOSAL | ASK PARTY: This is a newer idea to the wedding scene, where the engaged person or the couple hosts a party for their potential wedding party members, incorporating fun ideas and unique ways of asking them to be part of their special day.

SHOWERS: Family and friends host showers. They may ask if you want an individual or couple shower, specific gifts or registries, and guest list.

LUNCHEON: This is a casual gathering often enjoyed with your wedding party, following the fitting of dresses or formalwear.

BACH PARTY: This can be anything from a fun outing to a weekend getaway with your wedding party, family, and/or friends.

WELCOME PARTY: Consider a welcome party for out-of-town or special guests with fun gift bags, cocktails, and grazing tables.

REHEARSAL DINNER: This can be anything from a backyard barbecue to an elegant meal for those that are part of the rehearsal.

WEDDING BREAKFAST: This is a great opportunity to eat before the long day ahead and also a great time to review the day's agenda.

AFTER-PARTY: An after-party can take place in the hotel bar, around a campfire, in a specially created lounge, or at a nearby establishment.

DAY-AFTER BRUNCH: A post-wedding brunch is the perfect opportunity for one last weekend gathering and offers a chance to open gifts.

134 WedPlan

SHOWER INSPIRATION

Coordination, Design, Floral & Rentals: Melody Rose Designs; Stationery & Signage: LK Bridal Studio

135

BEACHY ASK PARTY Coordination, Design & Planning: Copper Feather Events Photography: Dave Stremikis Photography Floral & Rentals: Melody Rose Designs Tent & Rentals: Ash + Arrow Event Collective Balloon Installation: Aerial Backdrops Ask Gifts: Little Pop Color Shop Cookies: Baked Mini-Cakes: Cowboy David's Bakery Catering + Beverages: Twisted Radish Catering Permanent Bracelets: Willow & Weld Stationery, Stir Sticks, Wine Tumblers, Sunglasses & Ask Boxes: LK Bridal Studio Hair & Makeup: Lovely Elegance Hair & Makeup 136 WedPlan

137

138 WedPlan

139

140 WedPlan

141

DISCO DOLLY BACH BASH Coordination, Design, Floral & Rentals: Melody Rose Designs Venue: Wild Rose Ranch Photography: Twig & Olive Photography Videography: Empyrean Arts Stationery, Signage, Shirt Art & Drink Wall: LK Bridal Studio Cake + Cupcakes: Craig's Cake Shop Cookies: Sunny Celebrations Disco Ball Favor Wall: Cedar & Spice Hair: BK Salon Makeup: JV Makeup Artist Mobile Bar: The Mane Tap 142 WedPlan

143

144 WedPlan

145

146 WedPlan

147

90'S BACH PARTY

Coordination, Design, Planning, Floral, Balloons & Rentals: Skies the Limit Venue: 4th Street Bar Photography: Alder & Root Photography Videography: Hoffland Films Rentals & Linens: 4 Sisters Marquee Letters: Well Lit Stationery & Signage: BP Creationery Cake: Crumbtastic Cakery Cookies: LC Custom Treats Fashions: Aspen 78 Hair: Hair Dressed by Kristyn Makeup: Bold Lips & Blonde Hair 148 WedPlan

149

150 WedPlan

151

152 WedPlan

153

CABIN GETAWAY BASH

Design, Coordination, Stationery, Rentals & Jacket: Kingsley Coordination Photography: Savannah Steiger Photography Balloon Installation: Balloon Babe Winona Makeup: Makeup By Sarah Koblitz Earrings: Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear 154 WedPlan

155

156 WedPlan

157

158 WedPlan

159

160 WedPlan

Alder & Root Photography

CAPTURE THE MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

|

162

PHOTOGRAPHY STYLES

|

163

VIDEOGRAPHY

|

164

VIDEO STYLES

|

165

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

161

PHOTOGRAPHY Your wedding photographs will be your most valued wedding heirloom that you'll look back on years from now, reminiscing about the beauty and emotions of your day. While there's a range of pricing for this service based on each photographer's experience, wedding photography itself is truly priceless. Hire a professional whose photos connect with you, whose style you're drawn to, and whom you trust to capture your day and memories with the utmost care. Would you feel comfortable hanging out with them, grabbing a drink, or having a cup of coffee? That's a great start to finding your perfect match!

DIGITAL & FILM When thinking about your photography, it's important to consider if you want digital, film, or a combination of both! Digital photography is the most common form of wedding photography that allows for shooting in any lighting scenario, control of settings, and multiple backups of images.

Film photography tends to be a bit more expensive with the added cost of film rolls and processing, but it gives images a soft, timeless, grainy, and nostalgic look. With film photography making a significant comeback in today's world, some photographers incorporate both styles. Talk to your photographer about what they offer!

ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS Wedding photography packages often include a complimentary engagement session. If not, book an engagement session with your prospective wedding photographer, get to know each other, and make sure you are happy with the results. An engagement session also helps you feel comfortable in front of the camera and with your photographer before the wedding day.

Schedule your session sooner rather than later to allow plenty of time to get your photos back for any save-the-dates or engagement announcements!

Remember to print your beautiful images to give your loved ones as gifts and to hang on your walls.

162 WedPlan

FIRST LOOKS

Photography Styles

Some couples stick to the tradition of seeing each

TRADITIONAL - This style leans

other for the first time during the walk down

towards more posed, formal photos you

the aisle, while others choose to share a first

would see in a traditional family photo

look before the ceremony, enjoying an intimate

album. It focuses on portraits and big

moment together while their photographer subtly

wedding day moments like the first

captures all the emotions! No choice is right

kiss, first dance, and cake cutting. The

or wrong or more special than another, and the

classic look stands the test of time, and

decision is up to you and your partner.

regardless of your photographer's style,

Remember that first looks can include more than just you and your partner! You may consider sharing a first look with your wedding party, parents, grandparents, or other close loved ones!

A first look, it is often an opportunity to settle each other's nerves, get some emotions out, and can create space for wedding party and family photos to happen earlier, meaning there's more time to celebrate with loved ones later!

it's common for at least some of your photos to be shot this way.

DOCUMENTARY - The photographer strives to capture the day as it unfolds and tell your story with more unposed and candid images. Documentary is one of the most popular wedding photography styles, capturing more emotion than traditional photography.

If you prefer not to see each other before the

Documentary photographers typically

wedding, a first touch can also get some beautiful,

observe and capture your wedding

emotional shots. Consider holding hands around a

without much prompting or interfering.

corner and reading each other's love letters or praying with one another if that is meaningful for you.

FINE ART - This is an entirely individual artistic approach that blends both curated and candid shots to capture images you could imagine seeing hung in a gallery or published in a magazine.

A fine art photographer will craft a story through their lens and carefully choose elements like location, lighting, composition, styling, and posing.

163

VIDEOGRAPHY One of the most common regrets we hear couples say is that they wish they had hired a videographer. Your wedding will pass by in the blink of an eye, and while photography can display rich emotion, there are elements that only a video can capture. You will enjoy watching your video together over the years, sharing it with your children, if you have them, and keeping these recorded memories of those who will grow up and those who will pass on. A professional videographer has the creativity and talent to capture, edit, and showcase the moments of your special day to make a masterpiece, reflecting all its emotion and beauty.

Morrison Media, Horstmann Homestead Farm

164 WedPlan

Video Styles TRADITIONAL - Style focuses on

COMMON TYPES OF VIDEOS

major moments like your ceremony

FEATURE-LENGTH: A 15 to 35+ minute

behind-the-scenes or wedding details.

cinematic film set to music, including extensive audio from the ceremony and reception.

HIGHLIGHT REEL: Usually a 3 to 12-minute video or short film highlighting the wedding day's best moments.

WEDDING TRAILER: A 3 to 5-minute highlight film set to music showcasing key moments and audio of the day and often sent as a sneak peek before your longer wedding video is complete.

SAME-DAY EDIT: On your wedding day, the footage is edited into a creative trailer and viewed live at your reception!

and reception with less focus on Typically these videographers will have a more straightforward editing style and use fewer cinematic tools.

DOCUMENTARY - Often referred to as journalistic. Typically longer in length, they show the day's events as they unfold, yet still beautifully edited together for a polished finished piece.

CINEMATIC - Tells a story through an artistic, movie-like approach of shooting

high-quality

short

clips

at various angles and focal lengths.

STREAMING: A simple, high-quality, and

The video clips are edited with

immersive virtual wedding experience for your

excellent audio, including music and

remote guests.

testimonies from special attendants,

RAW FOOTAGE: Sometimes included with

family members, or the couple. These

larger wedding packages, raw footage is fulllength, unedited videos of moments like your ceremony, dances, or speeches.

videos are shorter yet stylish, creative, and very emotional.

GUERRILLA FILMMAKING: A

AERIAL VIDEO: Often captured with a drone,

more organic approach, often with a

this type of video is shot in the air above the

small handheld camera capturing a

action happening on the ground. This video offers

more natural and realistic look at the

a creative perspective and beautiful panning shots

day. The final video is intentionally

of your venue!

less polished, with more of a TV reality series feel, capturing those raw

NOTE: Some videographers also offer a vintage

emotions and surprising moments.

approach to your wedding videography using oldschool equipment that creates nostalgic, grainylooking videos!

165

166 WedPlan

forHisglory Photography

GIFTS REGISTRY

|

168

THANK-YOU CARDS

|

169

GIFT GIVING

|

170

BOUDOIR

|

171

FAVORS

|

172

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

167

REGISTRY

Registry Tips • Consider setting your online registry

Your guests won't want to arrive empty-handed

up on a free wedding website host

at your wedding or pre-wedding parties, and you

like Zola, Joy, Minted, The Knot, or

want to make sure you receive gifts that you and

Wedsites.

your partner will love and use. Setting up a wedding registry on a website with other pertinent wedding information is important during the planning process. Even if you prefer not to receive gifts, we recommend still setting up a small gift registry or links to creative alternatives for insistent guests.

REGISTRY OPTIONS LOCAL Shop local and register for items from area shops!

You will often find specialty or handmade products that you won't find in national chains.

• Keep receipts in a dedicated safe place in case you need to return any items.

• Providing a registry encourages guests to select gifts that are desired and fit your lifestyle. Be sure to offer your guests robust choices at a variety of price points.

• Hoping for the gift of cash? Set up specific funds or a link on your website for guests to transfer money to you directly.

• It is common to include your registry

NATIONAL Out-of-town guests appreciate the convenience of a store nearby or online. Many wedding websites give you the ability to pull products from multiple sources on your registry! Take advantage of this to find items of varying price points.

ALTERNATIVE If you and your future spouse feel you have everything you need for your home, consider other registry ideas such as a wine subscription, meal kit delivery, or home building and honeymoon fund!

CHARITY In lieu of gifts, ask your guests to donate to a charity you and your partner are passionate about.

168 WedPlan

information on a shower invite and wedding invite. Have your stationer tastefully include this in a subtle line of text to not overpower the critical information and overall design.

THANK-YOU CARDS Whether a gift from someone is mailed to your home, given at a shower, or brought on your wedding day, you'll want to be sure to send a note of thanks. Keep track of any gifts given and thank-you cards sent on your guest list spreadsheet! We recommend designating a wedding party member or loved one to jot down the gifts you open and who they are from during any of your pre- or post-wedding parties.

For gifts given before your wedding, we recommend sending a thankyou card within 1-2 weeks. For gifts received on or after your wedding, prioritize tackling those promptly once you have settled or returned from your honeymoon. If possible, send thank-you notes along the way as you receive gifts so nothing is forgotten and the task is much less daunting!

Besides being proper etiquette, your guests have spent time and money celebrating you, so you'll want to be sure to show your appreciation.

Discuss thank-you card options with your stationer to develop creative ideas that match the vibe of your wedding and personalities! They will have past sample ideas on hand or can help you come up with something completely unique to you. If your photographer offers sneak peeks, consider using a wedding photo or two in your card design. This is also an excellent opportunity to list first and last names, a new surname if your name changed, and a new address if applicable!

NOTE: Remember any thank-you notes to parents, vendors, or anyone else who went above and beyond for your wedding!

169

GIFT GIVING

Gift Ideas SPOUSE: watch, cufflinks, wallet, jewelry, ring dish, photo album, boudoir gift, customized mugs, bucket list book, illustration of the two of you,

As they say, "It's better to give than to receive." You

heartfelt letter or card, or a wedding

and your partner can celebrate each other by giving

day essentials basket

something special that expresses your love for one another. Share these gifts at your rehearsal, during

PARENTS: wine membership, bed

your first look, on your wedding night, or at another

& breakfast stay, restaurant gift

dedicated time.

cards, jewelry, a personalized tie or

Thoughtful gifts can also be given to family and

handkerchief, watch, cooking class,

friends who have offered their time, money, and effort to make your wedding special. A personal note included with the gift is encouraged. Consider presenting these gifts privately or publicly at a luncheon, rehearsal dinner, or after all the festivities are over.

It is also not uncommon that close relationships are built as you work with some of your vendors. Giving a special gift or a thank you note with a tip are great ways to show your appreciation.

NOTE: Some gratuities are expected, while others are appreciated. You can find gratuity information in the vendor section of this publication.

or wedding photos in a framed print, canvas, or album WEDDING PARTY: robes, clutches, cuff links, ties, socks, flasks, tumblers, cigars, spa treatment, travel bag, game or event tickets, watches, jewelry, personalized bottle openers, photos of you and them, themed gift baskets, wine, beer, or liquor, restaurant gift cards, coffee, or mugs CHILD

ATTENDANTS:

books,

toys, room decor, jewelry, something to wear on the wedding day, movie or restaurant gift cards SHOWER HOSTS: potted plant, floral arrangement, box of chocolates, jewelry, restaurant gift cards, specialty soaps, candle, a bottle of wine, a box of cookies, or cupcakes VENDORS AND HELPERS: flower arrangement, gift card, a bottle of wine, chocolates, or a more personalized gift

170 WedPlan

BOUDOIR Boudoir and dude-oir photography can truly be a life-changing experience.

It is an opportunity to see yourself as the beautiful, self-assured, and sexy person you are and that your partner fell in love with. Work with a photographer you trust, and you will leave your session feeling confident and radiant! Consider gifting your spouse-to-be a beautiful, intimate gift from your session on your wedding night or honeymoon.

While simple prints of your boudoir photos make stunning and memorable gifts, consider other engaging and artful applications for your photos. For example, many photographers offer high-quality albums to showcase many gorgeous images all in one place. Similarly, boudoir boxes utilize the same concept as an album without the binding. Your favorite photos can be kept in a stylish heirloom box, allowing you to pull single images out for display and change them as you wish.

If you would prefer a daily reminder of how beautiful you are in the privacy of your own bedroom, bath, or walk-in closet, consider a spicy pin-up calendar or high-quality framed art print. Remember, many materials can showcase your images, such as photo prints, canvas, metal, acrylic, and even wood.

LK Bridal Studio

171

FAVORS

Favor Ideas Coffee, Tea, or Hot Chocolate

Wedding favors offer a unique and personalized way to say a special thank you to guests who came to

Cocktail Kits

celebrate you and your partner on your big day. We

Shot Glasses

recommend providing something guests can eat or

Coffee Mugs

something they can use after the wedding day. Talk with your stationer about enhancing the favors with personalized tags or decals, perhaps nodding to a shared passion or your wedding theme.

Bottle Openers Local Honey, Jam, or Syrup Gourmet Olive Oil Homemade Vanilla Gourmet Popcorn or Snacks Cookie Mix Candles Seeds Plants or Succulents Artwork or Prints Playing Cards Luggage Tags Keychains Pet Treats

172 WedPlan

LK Bridal Studio

BOTANICAL PRINTS

LUXE CANDLES

COCKTAIL KITS

EDIBLE FAVORS

FLOWER SEED FAVORS

KEYCHAINS

173

174 WedPlan

Orange Door Weddings, Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Jenna Walker Photography

TRAVEL DESTINATION WEDDING

|

176

HONEYMOON

|

177

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

175

DESTINATION WEDDING Destination weddings held in a setting away from your hometown are an excellent way to add even more adventure and special memories to your already momentous day! You may visit a beautiful location in the States or head to an exotic spot outside the country. A travel agent who specializes in destination weddings can help you find the perfect location. Also, consider supporting other local vendors by asking if they do destination weddings, as many wedding professionals are willing to travel and would love to share in the adventure!

When planning, choose both physically and financially accessible locations for your guests and be mindful by giving everyone ample time to make travel preparations. Extending travel plans before your wedding allows for more time and activities spent with guests and each other, and you may consider honeymooning in the same location after! While stateside locations offer more than enough variety in climate and culture for a unique destination wedding, hot spots outside the US include: The Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Thailand, New Zealand, and Australia.

REQUIREMENTS With so many beautiful places on this earth, it may be hard to decide where to go! Near or far, if you plan on getting legally married at your destination, consider what legal requirements are present in the given state or country.

Many couples getting married out of the country choose to also have a civil ceremony at home to be sure their marriage is official and legal in the US. You will need to bring all necessary documents and any proof of immunizations for these out-of-country celebrations.

SEQUEL RECEPTION Some couples host a reception back home after their destination wedding, as many loved ones may be unable to travel the distance to join the celebration. This is also a great way to gather if you've chosen to elope!

176 WedPlan

HONEYMOON Whether you choose a nearby destination, a staycation, or a trip across the sea, embrace this time as newlyweds. Set time aside to relax, enjoy each other, and bond as a newly married couple.

Although it might be tempting to postpone a honeymoon until a "better time," relaxation is often needed in the weeks after your wedding.

TRAVEL AGENTS Be sure to talk with a travel agent who specializes

Honeymoon Tips • If you are changing your name, it is often best to do this after your honeymoon to ensure all your identification is consistent and accurate.

• Share your budget, activities you like, and foods you enjoy with your travel agent to help them provide you with the best travel recommendations.

in honeymoons and destination weddings to help you navigate details, like coordinating the trip for

• Find out if an agent fee is involved.

your guests and getting passports, visas, and other

This is not always the case, but if it

paperwork in order. While it is easy to search the

is, the cost is typically worth the

web in hopes of finding the best deals, you will

hours you spend on the internet or any

quickly learn to appreciate the knowledge, expert

unforeseen circumstances you may

advice, connections, and experiences of a travel

encounter with an online deal.

agent to find that perfect spot and assist you in all the planning details.

• To save money, consider travel dates away from holidays or spring break.

NOTE: Speak with your travel agent early to ensure you have ample time to get passports and

• Inquire about travel insurance, which

other necessary documentation, as well as to give

often covers cancellations, sicknesses,

you and your guests time to budget and save!

or other unforeseen circumstances.

• Ask if your travel agent offers a honeymoon registry. This can be a great alternative to traditional gifts!

177

178 WedPlan

Orange Door Weddings, The Cargill Room at The Waterfront

VENDORS PLANNERS & DESIGNERS

|

180

STATIONERS & SIGNAGE

|

187

FASHION

|

191

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

|

195

FLORAL DESIGNERS

|

202

JEWELERS

|

208

PHOTOGRAPHERS

|

209

VIDEOGRAPHERS

|

220

CATERING & BAR SERVICE

|

222

CAKES & DESSERTS

|

225

RENTALS & DECOR

|

228

MUSICIANS & DJS

|

235

GUEST EXPERIENCES

|

238

TRANSPORT

|

240

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL

|

242

OFFICIANTS

|

244

VENUES

|

245

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

|

268

Find full vendor profiles on wedplanlax.com 179

PLANNERS & DESIGNERS WHAT TO KNOW

Timing IMMEDIATELY AFTER ENGAGEMENT: Hire your planner and designer.

WEDDING PLANNER Wedding planners oversee the entire planning

UP TO A MONTH BEFORE:

process from the initial stages through the day-

Coordinators can step in anytime

of execution. Some planners may also be event designers - ask what they include! Most wedding planners offer:

before the wedding. Connect as early in the planning process as possible.

• Personalized Planning • Budget Advice • Vendor Management • Timeline Creation • Guest List Management • Day-Of Coordination

EVENT DESIGNER

Gratuity While not obligatory, tipping the wedding planner is a thoughtful

Event designers create or enhance the design and

gesture. Consider a 10-20% gratuity

decor concepts for the overall visual aesthetic

or a custom amount, which can be

of the wedding. A designer may also be a planner

presented during the rehearsal, on

or day-of coordinator, so ask if they offer any

the wedding day, or added to the final

other services.

invoice. Many couples also choose

COORDINATOR

to accompany this with a thank-you note or a small gift. Simply leaving a

Day-of coordinators oversee everything on the

positive review is another meaningful

wedding day. Month-of-coordination services are

way to acknowledge the exceptional

also often available for a little more pre-wedding

service you've received.

assistance.

• Setup & Teardown • Oversee Vendors • Transportation Schedule Monitoring • Vendor Tip Distribution • Day-Of Tasks • Overcome Challenges

180 WedPlan

Karlee Mikkelson Photography

WedPlan La Crosse

ORANGEDOORWEDDINGS.COM (608) 796 - 2257 181 WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

Copper Antler Photography

PLANNING, DESIGN + DAY OF COORDINATION Let us take care of the details so you can enjoy the moment.

skiesthelimitevents.com 608-293-0253 skiesthelimitevents@gmail.com Kanyon Photography

182 WedPlan

Reminisce Photography Reminisce Photography

Reminisce Photography

The Wedding Flashers

DESIGN • PLANNING • COORDINATION • OFFICIANT SERVICES

DESIGN + PLANNING + COORDINATION + DESTINATION LINEN/DECOR RENTALS • DJ/MUSIC SERVICES EVENT SERVICES

osoinlove.company.site

LGBTQ+ owned/operated osoinloveevents.com | 608.401.6069 osoinlove.company.site osoinlove.company.site 510.833.7272 510.833.7272

@osoinloveevents @osoinloveevents @osoinloveevents 510.833.7272

183

Alacia Adrienne Photo Co. Alacia Alacia Adrienne Adrienne Photo Photo Co. Co.

Those Those Gals Gals Photography Photography Those Gals Photography

AMAZING!!! Hannah is simply meant AMAZING!!! Hannah is simply meant for for this this type type of of work! work! She She took took all all my my ideas and vision and put it all together!! ideas and and vision vision and and put ideas put it it all all together!! together!!

She is so particular and She is She is is so so particular particular and and passionate! passionate!

She passionate! She She is is willing to go above and beyond!!!

Book willing to to go go above above and and beyond!!! willing beyond!!! Book Book her!!

You will not regret it!!!! her!! You You will will not not regret her!! regret it!!!! it!!!!

Brooke - Brooke Brooke Houdek Houdek Houdek

FULL -- SERVICE SERVICE PLANNING PLANNING FULL PLANNING MONTH MONTH OF OF MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT DECOR RENTALS RENTALS + + STYLING STYLING DECOR STYLING STATIONERY STATIONERY DESIGN + PRINT STATIONERY DESIGN DESIGN + + PRINT PRINT kingsleycoordination.com kingsleycoordination.com kingsleycoordination.com hannah@kingsleycoordination.com hannah@kingsleycoordination.com hannah@kingsleycoordination.com

184 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

Savannah Savannah Steiger Steiger Photography Photography Savannah Steiger Photography

Alacia Adrienne Photo Alacia Adrienne Photo Co. Alacia Adrienne Photo Co.Co.

Alacia Adrienne Photo Co.Co. Alacia Adrienne Photo Alacia Adrienne Photo Co.

Savannah Steiger Photography Savannah Savannah Steiger Steiger Photography Photography

Creating sense of unconventional, luxe without sacrificing the Creating aaa sense sense of of unconventional, unconventional, elevated elevated Creating elevated luxe luxe without without sacrificing sacrificing the the dreamy bohemian flair that we love, with clients who want to do dreamy bohemian flair that we love, with clients who want to do dreamy bohemian flair that we love, with clients who want to do their own own thing thing -- their their own way. way. their their own thing - their own own way.

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

forHisglory Photography

@elegantoutcomeswi

elegantoutcomeswi.com

WEDDING PLANNING & COORDINATION

PLANNING, FULL DECOR INVENTORY, DAY-OF COORDINATION, AND FLORALS

Weddings Simplified Let us help you make your day perfect and stress-free! From all-inclusive event management and decorating, including the use of our expansive inventory, to wedding party florals and day-of coordination, we can build a custom solution for you!

www.detailsmatterbyamber.com (507) 215-0907 detailsmatterbyamber@gmail.com

185

Planning | Flowers | Decor | Rentals

ivylaneweddingsco.com |

186 WedPlan

STATIONERS & SIGNAGE WHAT TO ASK • Ask about unique paper and printing methods.

• Ask about a recommended number of invitations based on your guest list.

• Ask professional what additional pieces they create beyond invitations to enhance your wedding.

• Ask to see samples of save-the-dates, invitation suites, table pieces, specialty items, and signage.

• Ask your stationer to help you think through your invitation wording.

• Ask about statement signage or other installations.

• Ask about the correct postage for mailing.

• Ask about envelope addressing options.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know your wedding details, such as date, times, addresses, menu choices, & guest accommodations.

• Know your guest list and have the information in an organized spreadsheet.

• Know your color palette and wedding vibe.

• Know who will address your envelopes, and if handwritten, printed, or calligraphy.

• Know the areas you will need signage to direct or instruct guests.

Timing 9-12 MONTHS BEFORE: Begin save-the-date design concept.

Compile guest addresses.

Meet stationer to determine options.

8-11 MONTHS BEFORE: Provide polished spreadsheet of guest names and addresses if the stationer is addressing save-the-date envelopes.

Mail save-the-dates or sooner if planning a destination wedding.

5-6 MONTHS BEFORE: Begin invitation design process.

Confirm invitation style, verbiage, and desired pieces in the invite suite.

Check guest list for quantity changes.

3 MONTHS BEFORE: Provide polished spreadsheet of guest names and addresses if the stationer is addressing invitation envelopes.

6-8 WEEKS BEFORE: Mail invitations. (10-12 weeks for destination weddings) 6 WEEKS BEFORE: Order programs, menus, escort cards, favors, and other signage or day-of needs.

2 WEEKS BEFORE: Provide spreadsheet of guest names, food choices, and table numbers for escort cards.

AFTER THE WEDDING:

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to budget for Save-the-Dates, Invitations, Signage and Specialty pieces.

• Remember if you have a physical RSVP card, you will need two stamps: one for the invitation mailing envelope and one for the RSVP card.

• Remember postage stamp rates are determined by envelope size, the weight, and bulk. Save on postage by opting for a postcard RSVP! • Remember to send invitations out earlier than normal if you're having a destination wedding.

• Remember to give an invitation suite to your photographer for wedding details photos.

Order and send thank-you cards.

Gratuity While not expected, consider a custom gratuity to acknowledge the dedicated work of stationers who strive to craft unique and cohesive pieces for your event. Tips are commonly added to the final invoice payment, and, as always, a positive review is a great way to express your appreciation further.

187

Priscilla Ryan Photography

Follow BP Creationery on Instagram!

From save-the-dates to thank-you notes, we have you covered.

BP Creationery is your one stop stationery design and print service. The collaboration of your imagination and our creativity brings your stationery to life. All designs are custom-made to fit your personal wedding style.

WedPlan La Crosse 188 WedPlan

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

Curated Designs. Limitless Possibilities. lindsey@lkbridalstudio.com | 608-768-0092 | Save-the-Dates | Invitation Suites | Party Invitations Programs | Menus | Escort Cards | Signage | Favors Thank Yous | Designer Wedding Albums

WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLAN.COM 189

EX PR ES S PRINTING WE D D I N GS

B E AUT IFULLY CURAT E D S TAT IO N E RY CRE AT E D TO C E LE B RAT E LIFE ’ S B IG G E ST M O M E N TS We love to h elp o u r cl ien ts' wed d in g d ream s co m e true. We value each co u p le as b ein g en tirely unique. Th at 's wh y we take th e tim e to slow d own a nd get to kn ow yo u r sto ry, en su rin g we p rovid e a su ite as u n iq ue as yo u are.

EXPRESSPRINTINGLAX.COM | (608)784-4900 SAVE T HE DAT E CA R DS • I NVI TAT I ON CA R DS • ADDITI ONA L DE TA I LS CA R DS • P R E M I U M E NVE LOP E S • CUSTO M M ONOG RA M S • P HOTO CA R DS • WE DDI NG DAY STAT I ONE RY A ND SI G NAG E • A ND M U CH M OR E

190 WedPlan

FASHION QUESTIONS TO ASK

Timing 9-12 MONTHS BEFORE: Shop for and order wedding gown, shoes, undergarments, and accessories.

8-9 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if appointments are recommended or required by the bridal or formalwear shops.

Shop for and order bridesmaids and mothers dresses.

• Ask about how many fittings will be needed and the timeline of them.

6 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask about the pros and cons of renting or buying formalwear.

• Ask if the store provides in-house alterations or if you need to seek out another professional.

• Ask about when deposits and payments are due.

• Ask how to bustle your dress, if needed.

• Ask about transporting advice if you will be traveling with your dress or formalwear.

Register at a formalwear shop. Confirm styles, measurements, and order.

3 MONTHS BEFORE: Attend first dress fitting and begin alterations.

Send measurement reminders for those in suits or tuxes.

6-10 WEEKS BEFORE: Attend dress fitting check-up.

• Ask about any restrictions related to fabrics for steaming or pressing.

3-4 WEEKS BEFORE:

DETAILS TO KNOW

Attend final dress fitting.

• Know the overall wedding style, formality, and color palette you are coordinating fashions with.

DAYS BEFORE:

• Know what everyone in your wedding party will be wearing, including any special attendants, parents and grandparents.

Attend final formalwear fittings and pick up items.

• Know who will pay for what and if you are giving any apparel or accessories as gifts.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to keep an open mind and utilize your stylist's knowledge.

• Remember to bring any accessories, shapewear, undergarments, jackets, capes, and shoes to your fittings.

• Remember to designate people to press or steam attire and return any rented attire.

• Remember that choosing a local shop can help ensure quality customer service and satisfaction with the look and fit.

Send final measurement reminder for suits or tuxes.

Pick up wedding gown and discuss care.

THE DAY AFTER: Return any rented formalwear.

Gratuity While not mandatory, consider a custom gratuity for your style consultant on the day you collaborated. Reflect on the time, energy, and special attention your stylist dedicated to finding your perfect gown or the alteration specialist who ensured it fit flawlessly. Your positive review is genuinely cherished.

191

LA CROSSE, WI | EAU CLAIRE, WI

www.charlottesbridal.net

192 WedPlan

More than a shop—it’s an experience!

Knowledgeable stylists, upgraded appointment options & an expansive variety of styles and sizes are what make Charlotte’s the shopping destination for your wedding. Scan to learn more about our bridal experiences—we can’t wait to celebrate you!

193

Your Ultimate

Boutique

At Brides N’ Belles, we understand the significance of finding the perfect wedding gown, and our commitment to providing a unique and luxurious experience sets us apart. Our collections feature the most exquisite and fashionable bridal gowns that cater to the sophisticated tastes of today’s brides!

BRIDES N’ BELLES FEATURES • Over 600 bridal gowns • Wisconsin’s LARGEST selection of mother’s dresses • Men’s formal wear and tuxedos • In-house alterations

Michaela Paige Photography

140 E. Main St., Reedsburg, WI 608.524.8133 Ext. 1 bridesnbells.com 194 WedPlan

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Timing

QUESTIONS TO ASK

9-12 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask how far in advance you need to book your pre-trials for wedding day hair and makeup.

Book your hair and makeup artists.

• Ask for samples of their work and ideas for you based on the style of your attire, headpiece, or vibe.

• Ask how many hair stylists and makeup artists you need to accommodate your party and timeline.

• Ask about the best regimens to adopt for your skin, teeth, hair, nails, and other health services.

Start a skincare routine and consult a professional esthetician for facials and customized skincare help. Your last facial should be a week or more before the wedding.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask about what hair or makeup products will be provided & if there is anything you need to provide.

Do a trial run with hair and makeup to see and approve the look. Check for any allergies or reactions during the trial.

DETAILS TO KNOW

1-2 WEEKS BEFORE:

• Know whether you want hair and makeup services performed at the salon, onsite, or another gettingready location.

Attend any final haircut or color appointments.

• Know how many people in your group need each service.

Attend waxing appointments.

• Know what other salon or spa services you want done.

• Know what is comfortable for you and matches your personality.

Get eyelash extensions.

1 DAY BEFORE: Final shampoo and beard, mustache, or hair trims.

Get a manicure and pedicure.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember any makeup or hair items for touch-ups in your emergency kit or day-of clutch.

• Remember a button-down shirt or robe for getting ready.

• Remember to try new products or do any waxing far enough in advance to avoid reactions.

• Remember not to make drastic changes to your diet or hair too close to the wedding.

• Remember to schedule any mani-pedi appointments in a timely manner to allow for complete drying.

• Remember to set any final shampoos or trimmings of mustache, beard, or hair in place.

Gratuity It's customary to tip your hair and makeup artist. A typical range is around 15-20% of the total cost, but you can adjust based on your satisfaction with their services.

Tipping is a way to show appreciation for their talent and effort in making you look and feel your best on your special day. Don't forget to give a review!

195

196 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse forHisglory Photography

forHisglory Photography

Emily Jean Photography

forHisglory Photography

701 Rose St. La Crosse WI | 608-387-7019 |

@melanin.beautybar |

Melanin Beauty Bar

Enchanted Bridal Styling

On-location or in our salon

Free initial consultation 197 WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

198 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

SKYLER & VHAN

SAVANNAH STEIGER PHOTOGRAPHY

HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST ON SITE OR IN SALON SUITE SALON SUITE PAMPER PACKAGE AVAILABLE

A salon that runs on passion, creativity, education, and a little love.

1623 West Ave South, La Crosse 608-632-9672

sucasasalonandbridalsuite.com

ForHisGlory Photography

Creating Bridal Moments with Metropolitan Salon and Spa metropolitanspa.com (608) 784-6441 600 3rd St. N, #103 La Crosse, WI 54601

199

blondesandbridals.com | 444 Main St., La Crosse

Jenna Walker Photography

200 WedPlan

Emily Jean Photography

Makeup by Sarah Koblitz Full-service makeup team La Crosse, WI @makeupbysarahkoblitz sarahkoblitz.com

Amber Ralston

Pro Licensed Makeup Artist

Contact & Follow Us

Savannah Steiger Photography

PC Instinct Photography

Savannah Steiger Photography

PC Instinct Photography

Professionally Licensed Makeup Artistry

amberraemuartist@gmail.com @amberraemuartist @amberraemuartist

201

FLORAL DESIGNERS

Timing 12 MONTHS BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK

Hire florist.

• Ask if they have suggestions to achieve the look you are going for while staying within your budget.

9 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if the season or other sourcing factors will affect the flower options you're considering and about any substitutions.

• Ask if they offer any rental items you could add to your decor.

• Ask about delivery and setup, what needs to be returned, and any fees involved.

Schedule design consultation.

6–8 WEEKS BEFORE: Schedule a follow-up meeting before floral order is placed.

1 WEEK BEFORE: Check in on final details.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know your wedding vision and color palette.

• Know where you may want flowers for your ceremony and reception, as well as any additional accents for cakes, signage, or other details.

• Know who you need flowers for, like bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages for wedding party members and family.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to bring inspiration photos to your consultation and any other wedding elements like stationery, attire, or decorative pieces to match your palette and style.

• Remember to request loose stems for your wedding day detail photos in your estimate.

• Remember to figure out who will be pinning on boutonnieres, and to make sure they know how to do so.

202 WedPlan

Gratuity Not expected but appreciated, a custom tip is usually given at setup or with the final payment. Please consider the time spent with you in the initial consultation, throughout the planning process, and all of the behind-the-scenes work involved in cleaning and preparing your wedding day flowers. Gratuity is often divided between the florist and any assistants.

Additionally, a great review is always appreciated.

203

Quality unique flowers to create your dream color palette and aesthetic

bloomandknotflorist@gmail.com 303-944-8368 bloomandknotllc.my.canva.site

jenniferrayephotography

Beautiful Innovative Sustainable Unique 204 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

Kanyon Photography

BearMoose&Fox

FLORAL DESIGNS Floral designs that will bring your wedding day to life. skiesthelimitevents.com 608-293-0253 skiesthelimitevents@gmail.com 205

Pennycress Studio is your destination for unique, sustainable, and artful floral designs that showcase the beauty and exceptional quality of locally-grown flowers, straight from our farm in the driftless.

Contact us for a complimentary mood board and proposal - we can’t wait to hear from you!

PennycressStudio.com @pennycress_studio Pennycress Studio

206 WedPlan

Wild Pines Photography

Planning | Flowers | Decor | Rentals

ivylaneweddingsco.com | Rustic Rose Photography

Hand-Arranged Fresh Flowers crimsoncloverfloral.net 608.451.0077 207

JEWELERS

Timing

QUESTIONS TO ASK

2 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask your jeweler for metal recommendations suited to your job or lifestyle.

Decide on ring designs if choosing custom-made.

• Ask your jeweler to explain the cut, color, and clarity to get your desired gemstone quality.

• Ask about conflict-free certification on your gem purchase.

• Ask about tips on cleaning care and warranties for replacing stones or the entire ring in case of loss.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know if you want matching bands or any other type of personalization.

• Know if you want custom-designed or ready-to-wear.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to work with a reputable jeweler you can trust.

• Remember to get your settings checked regularly.

• Remember to talk with your insurance agency about adding your rings to your renter or homeowner policy.

208 WedPlan

Shop for and purchase wedding rings.

1 MONTH BEFORE: Approve or make changes to the 3D prototype, if custom rings, followed by final tweaks.

0-4 WEEKS BEFORE: Pick up rings.

DAY OF WEDDING: Remember the rings and give them to a designated person!

Gratuity While not obligatory, expressing appreciation to your jeweler is a kind gesture. Keep in mind that jewelers are typically compensated on commission, and any additional tip would be welcome. A positive review acknowledging the jeweler's efforts in helping you find the perfect piece for your special occasion is also recommended.

PHOTOGRAPHERS WHAT TO ASK • Ask about their photography style and what a shoot with them would look like.

• Ask about what their packages cover and any fees for travel, accommodations, or second shooters.

Timing IMMEDIATELY AFTER ENGAGEMENT: Book photography services and engagement session.

• Ask about the payment options and timeline.

4-6 WEEKS BEFORE:

• Ask about the delivery timeline for sneak peeks and final photos, as well as rights to images and printing.

Review timeline and any new details.

• Ask them about their emergency backup plan if something happens the day of your wedding.

Check in to confirm all information and exchange emergency phone numbers.

• Ask them about the best times and lighting for photos to help guide your wedding day timeline.

1 WEEK BEFORE:

• Ask about prints, albums, and other products they may offer.

• Ask about scheduling your engagement session and any recommendations for location or outfits.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know your preferred photography style.

• Know your budget, prioritizing quality and personality over price.

• Know the events of your day and how long you would want photo coverage.

• Know and communicate any special photo requests you may have.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember you will be spending a lot of time with your photographer, so it's important that you feel comfortable with them.

• Remember to make your photographer aware of family dynamics before your wedding day.

Gratuity While not expected, tipping a wedding photographer is a great way to express appreciation for their vital part in capturing the special day. Most often given on the wedding day or after receiving the final photographs, many couples also choose to include a handwritten thank-you note with the gift, confirming their satisfaction with the photographer's work. While there is no perfect time to express gratitude, reaching out relatively soon after the service is recommended. A great review is aways appreciated.

• Remember to share any of your wedding hashtags with your photographer.

• Remember printing your memories with your photographer offers heirloom-quality products over cheaper, low-quality prints.

209

210 WedPlan

211

W ED D I N G | BO U DO I R emilyjeanphoto.com

JOYFUL & LUXURIOUS PHOTOGRAPHY 212 WedPlan

adventure inspired photography for genuine souls adventure inspired photography for genuine souls wildelegancewi.com | info@wildelegancewi.com | 262.309.2240 wildelegancewi.com | info@wildelegancewi.com | 262.309.2240 213

ALDERANDROOT.COM

214 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

215

Western WI + Surrounding Area | fhgphotos.com

216 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

217

218 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

WedPlan La Crosse

219 WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

VIDEOGRAPHERS WHAT TO ASK • Ask about their videography style and what shooting with them looks like.

• Ask about what their packages cover and any fees for travel, accommodations, or second shooters.

• Ask about how many cameras will be shooting and what mics they provide.

• Ask them about the video formats they provide.

• Ask about the payment options and timeline.

• Ask about the timeline for receiving any trailers and final videos.

Timing UP TO 18 MONTHS BEFORE: Book videography services.

4-6 WEEKS BEFORE: Review timeline and any new details.

1 WEEK BEFORE: Check in to confirm all information and exchange emergency phone numbers.

• Ask them about their emergency backup plan if something happens the day of your wedding.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know what style of videography you are drawn to.

• Know how much of your day you want covered.

• Know if you have any special requests you want included in your video.

• Know how interactive you want them to be with your guests.

• Know if you want any special messages or well wishes captured from loved ones or guests.

• Know if you want to live stream your wedding for guests who cannot attend.

• Know if you're interested in hiring your videographer to capture your engagement session and coordinate with your photographer.

• Know if you want to work with them to create a video montage to show at your reception.

• Know how you want your final film to look, what is included, and length of the film.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to make your videographer aware of family dynamics before your wedding day.

• Remember to share any of your wedding hashtags with your videographer.

220 WedPlan

Gratuity It is customary to tip your wedding videographer around 10-15% of their total fee—or more if you are exceptionally pleased with their work!

Tipping is a way to show appreciation for their dedication to capturing and creating lasting memories of your special day. Tips can be given on the wedding day or with a thank-you note after receiving the final video. Timing is flexible, but it is best practice to express your appreciation relatively soon after the service. A great review is aways appreciated.

ROMA . BARI . MILANO . NAPOLI PLANNERS

ROMA . BARI . MILANO . NAPOLI PLANNERS

WEDDING Italy WEDDING Italy VIDEOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY BVISONS MEDia BVISIONS MEDIA starting 980 € BVISIONS MEDIA

WEDDING Italy WEDDING Italy VIDEOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY

La Crosse’s Trusted Videographer

Capturing the most precious moments in motion.

starting 980 €

www.bvisionsmedia.com | Find us on Facebook for the most recent posts.

La Crosse’s Trusted Videographer

WEDDING PLANNERS Capturing the mostTrusted precious moments in motion.

La Crosse’s Videographer CEREMONY . RESTAURANT . PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING PLANNERS Capturing the most moments in motion. call now for reservations +39 758 920 450precious CEREMONY . RESTAURANT . PHOTOGRAPHY Find us on Facebook for the most recent posts. www.bvisionsmedia.com +39 758 920 450 call now for reservations Find us on Facebook for the most recent posts. www.bvisionsmedia.com

BVISIONS MEDIA starting 980 € BVISIONS MEDIA starting 980 €

La Crosse’s Trusted Videographer WEDDING PLANNERS Capturing the mostTrusted precious moments in motion.

La Crosse’s Videographer CEREMONY . RESTAURANT . PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING PLANNERS Capturing the most moments in motion. call now for reservations +39 758 920 450precious CEREMONY . RESTAURANT . PHOTOGRAPHY Find us on Facebook for the most recent posts. www.bvisionsmedia.com Mixing real documented moments with +39 758 920 450 call now for reservations cinematically-captured highlights and blending Find us on Facebook for the most recent posts. www.bvisionsmedia.com

Wedding Videography

them to become a once-in-a-lifetime memory for you.

morrisonmediallc.com

Jordana Snyder Photography

221

CATERING & BAR SERVICE

Timing 1 YEAR OR MORE BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK

Initial consultation

• Ask about pricing options, service charges, gratuities, and payment terms.

Book caterer and bar service.

• Ask who can attend tastings and if there are any fees involved.

6 MONTHS OR MORE BEFORE: Food tasting and initial discussions

• Ask who will be the point person at the event and what other staff will be present.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask about who takes care of setup, bussing tables, and cleanup, and if they are included in the service charge.

Verify final plans and costs. Take into account updates in availability and seasonal fluctuations.

• Ask about what items they will provide and what items you need to purchase or rent.

1-3 WEEKS BEFORE:

• Ask about the time they need for setup & cleanup.

Finalize guest count and entrée count.

• Ask what they do with the extra food.

Check in to discuss any last-minute details.

• Ask when they need your final guest count.

• Ask if they offer cake cutting and if that is included or an extra charge.

• Ask who carries or is responsible for the liquor license and liability insurance.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know if your catering and bar service will be through your venue or if you need to hire another company.

• Know what type of catering and bar service you are looking for, like a plated meal or open bar.

• Know your date, venue, guest count, budget, formality, menu ideas, special requests, and dietary restrictions.

• Know if you want to include any unique guest experiences, like a mocktail bar, wine bar, coffee bar, tea bar, mimosa bar, CBD bud bar, etc.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to consider adding additional food or drink for for getting ready, cocktail hour, and late-night snacks.

• Remember to include any of your vendors in your guest count that will be present during the meal.

222 WedPlan

Gratuity Tipping your caterer, bar, and waitstaff around 15-25% of the total catering bill is customary. To ensure the gratuity is fairly divided, a catering manager will often handle distribution among the staff, though you can also approach team members individually if preferred.

Remember to check your contract before tipping, as some catering agreements may already include a service charge or gratuity. If tipping is already specified in the contract, additional gratuity may not be necessary, but expressing appreciation with a thankyou note or positive review is always welcome.

223

CHEF-CENTRIC, LOCAL & SEASONAL FOOD FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT!

Now booking weddings in 2024, 2025 and beyond!

Let’s talk about a menu for your upcoming event!

megan@eatapothik.com Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-Free Options Available 224 WedPlan

& CATERING K C U R FOOD T

CAKES & DESSERTS WHAT TO ASK • Ask if they are licensed.

• Ask about their cake and dessert options.

• Ask who can attend tastings and if fees are involved.

• Ask how far in advance they make the desserts.

Timing 6-12 MONTHS BEFORE: Contact bakers to discuss ideas and set up a tasting.

• Ask about vegan and gluten-free options or other dietary restrictions.

6 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if there are any additional fees for delivery and setup.

Discuss choices and flavors.

• Ask if they offer cake or dessert stands, trays, or other displays, and when they would need to be returned if you use them.

2 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if they will work with your florist to add blooms or greens to your cake or desserts.

• Ask if they will provide cake knives if you do not have a set you wish to use already.

Design Consultation

Final design tweaks 2-3 WEEKS BEFORE: Verify details and final guest count.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know if you are serving everyone cake or just having a cutting one for the two of you.

• Know your guest count.

• Know if you want any flowers, greens, or decor pieces added to the cake or dessert display.

• Know if there are any cultural treats or meaningful desserts you wish to include.

• Know how many different dessert options you want to offer.

• Know if you are including any unique guest experiences like an ice cream bar, s'mores station, a cotton candy cart, etc.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to bring your own cake knives if you want to use a specific set.

• Remember to discuss freezing the top layer of your cake for your first anniversary.

• Remember to include signage for labeling and informing your guests about the desserts or unique experiences.

• Remember to book your baker on the early side if your wedding is during peak time or if they are popular.

Gratuity Tips for the baker of your wedding cake usually go to the cake designer and may be shared with the baking staff. While not expected, this extra gesture can be included in the final payment, given on the day of, or delivered after the wedding. Since you might not interact with the baker on your wedding day, as you'll probably be preparing during the cake delivery, consider designating a trusted guest or staff member to manage the tip.

A thank-you note with an enclosed gift for your baker can also be left on your cake or dessert table before setup.

Expressing your satisfaction with a great review is also appreciated.

225

226 WedPlan

lccustomtreats@gmail.com (507) 273-8233

SAMANTHA ROSE CREATIVE CO.

s ’ a d n i L BAKERY You Can Really Taste the Difference!

(608) 786-1818 | lindasbakery.com 190 E City Hwy 16, West Salem 227

RENTALS & DECOR WHAT TO ASK

Timing 9-12 MONTHS BEFORE: Schedule a design meeting and pick

• Ask what options and recommendations they have for your vision and vibe.

out your larger items.

• Ask who will deliver, set up, tear down, and return items and what additional fees would be involved.

6 MONTHS BEFORE: Make your final order.

• Ask about any fees for broken or missing items.

3-4 WEEKS BEFORE: DETAILS TO KNOW

Make any final tweaks to order.

• Know your wedding style, vibe, and color palette.

• Know your essential rental needs and what extras you wish to incorporate for lounges, displays, or design.

• Know what items your other vendors offer and figure out what you want to change out or supplement with rentals.

• Know your guest count for ordering tables, chairs, and dinnerware.

• Know when items can be delivered to the venue and when they need to be picked up.

• Know if you need set-up and tear-down services.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to ask your event designer for advice on enhancing your wedding vision through rentals.

• Remember to order any additional rentals your vendors may need, like AV equipment, tents, tables, chairs, etc.

• Remember to order extra dinnerware and glassware in case of accidents.

• Remember that rentals can make your wedding day vision come to life without the commitment of a one-time purchase!

228 WedPlan

Gratuity Though the salesperson and crew for wedding rentals and decor often work behind the scenes at a wedding, their contribution plays a huge role in the look and flow of the special day.

While not expected, it is common to tip both the salesperson and the crew, typically during the setup or tear-down, before they leave the job site. There is no customary amount, but extra gratuity is always appreciated. Writing a great review or providing a recommendation is appreciated as well!

Tiffany Brubaker

Tiffany Brubaker

Emilee Meador

SCAN FOR INVENTORY

ResourceVintageRental.com 229

230 WedPlan

231

232 WedPlan

| EVENT RENTALS |

www. od ev en t r enta l. c o m

DECOR RENTAL & WEDDING PLANNING elegantoutcomeswi.com @elegantoutcomeswi

233

Hailey Marie Photography

Elevate Your Event with Exceptional Decor Rentals. @alilouevents • Galesville, WI alilouevents.com • alilouevents@gmail.com

Arches | Bars | Tables | Benches | Barrels | Centerpieces Games | Card Boxes | Signs | Gifts

608.406.7164 | daronjf @180grit.com | 180grit.com/wedding 234 WedPlan

MUSICIANS & DJS

Timing 12-18 MONTHS BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK

Book your musicians and DJ.

• Ask about what is included in their packages and any additional services or fees.

4-6 WEEKS BEFORE:

• Ask your DJ or live musician if they also emcee.

Finalize timeline, announcements,

• Ask about their backup plan in case of an emergency with a DJ, musician, or equipment.

and music selections.

• Ask if they offer additional rentals for other reception entertainment or lighting accents.

1-2 WEEKS BEFORE: Finalize and verify all details.

• Ask for their advice about playlists, special dances, lighting, and other entertainment.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know if you want live or recorded music for your ceremony, music selections, and at what points do you want them played.

• Know if you want musicians, DJ, or a combo for your cocktail hour and reception.

• Know what your musician or DJ provides for a sound system and microphones.

• Know how long you want music played and when you will have special dances, if you choose to do so.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to check on electrical needs and that there are enough available, accessible outlets.

Gratuity A tip of 15-20%, paid the day of the event to the DJ or split between musicians, is expected, with a higher gratuity if they exceeded your expectations. In addition to the performance on the big day, a lot goes into preparing and planning for your event's music and entertainment.

Consider the extra time behind the scenes, years of refining musical talent, and the effort put into personalizing the event. As always, a great review is also a way to show appreciation.

• Remember to find a professional who understands the sound and style you want for your wedding.

• Remember to make a "do not play" list.

235

BRAND GUIDELINES The purpose of this style guide is to explain the use of the brand and reinforce consistent application of the visual elements in all communications both online and offline.

DJ • PHOTO BOOTH • UPLIGHTING everafterentertainment.com info@everafterentertainment.com

236 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

WedPlan La Crosse

237 WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

GUEST EXPERIENCES

Timing 6-12 MONTHS BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK

Book services.

• Ask about package options, inclusions, and payment details.

Check into additional rental items.

• Ask to see sample images from previous events.

• Ask your potential vendors if they are licensed and insured.

• Ask about additional fees, like delivery, setup, or an onsite attendant if necessary.

• For photo booths, ask if there are ways for guests to get their photos sent directly to their phones or email addresses, as well as if you get any digital or printed copies to take home after your wedding.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know what type of look you want.

• Know how you want this experience to feel and transition within your wedding day setup, flow, and timeline.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to work with your planner, stationer, florist, and rental company to enhance guest experience stations or activities.

238 WedPlan

Gratuity While not obligatory, additional compensation for services such as a photo booth attendant or live artist at the reception is genuinely appreciated.

Your thoughtful consideration is valued, and please keep in mind that a positive review is also warmly welcomed!

BRAND GUIDELINES The purpose of this style guide is to explain the use of the brand and reinforce consistent application of the visual elements in all communications both online and offline.

DJ • PHOTO BOOTH • UPLIGHTING everafterentertainment.com info@everafterentertainment.com

239

TRANSPORT

Timing 12-18 MONTHS BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK • Ask about their rates and features. Is it an hourly rate and do they need to be consecutive hours or can they come back at various times to shuttle guests?

• Ask about backup plans if the vehicle breaks down or for any other issues.

• Ask about the licenses and insurance they have.

• Ask about overtime fees and tipping.

DETAILS TO KNOW

Book transportation services.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE: Confirm tentative timeline and details.

Get driver contact information and exchange emergency numbers.

1 WEEK BEFORE: Update the driver with exact times, an address for each stop, and a final timeline of your day.

• Know the type of transportation you want, for whom, and when.

• Know the distances between the locations people would need transport for.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to inform the driver of your timeline and who to expect as passengers.

• Remember to make arrangements for transporting gifts if you and your partner have special transportation at the end of your wedding.

• Remember to consider your transportation for getting to your honeymoon. How will you get to and from the airport if you're flying?

• Remember to make arrangements soon after your engagement, especially if your wedding falls around a peak time such as prom, homecoming, or graduation.

240 WedPlan

Gratuity Transportation companies help you and your guests navigate the day conveniently and safely. Tipping the driver or transportation company 20% is customary, and a glowing review is always welcome!

Mueller Photography

For All Your Happily Ever Afters Cashton, WI www.cinderellacarriagellc.com

Impulse Photography

WedPlan La Crosse

241 WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL WHAT TO ASK • Ask if there is an agent fee.

• Ask if they have connections for discounts and experiences they recommend.

• Ask how they handle issues that may arise.

• Ask if there are times of the year that offer lower travel rates.

Timing 12-18 MONTHS BEFORE: Contact an agent to plan a destination wedding.

9-11 MONTHS BEFORE: Contact an agent to plan your honeymoon. Put down deposit.

Begin passport process.

• Ask about travel insurance, which often covers cancellations, sickness, or other unforeseen circumstances.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if the agent offers a honeymoon registry as an alternative option to traditional gifts.

2-4 WEEK BEFORE:

Make final payment.

Receive travel documents.

DETAILS TO KNOW • Know preferred travel dates, length of stay, and potential destinations.

• Know your budget.

• Know preferred activities, cuisine preferences, and personal limitations.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember if travel plans are outside the country, allow enough time for passports or any additional paperwork needed.

• Remember to research your destination in advance, along with the expected weather forecast during your stay, and pack accordingly.

• Remember to learn what currency is most widely used and form a plan to exchange needed funds.

242 WedPlan

Gratuity It is not customary to tip your travel agent; however, a gift or a positive review acknowledging their efforts in helping you plan the perfect experience is warmly appreciated.

243

OFFICIANTS WHAT TO ASK • Ask about marriage laws and if they can legally perform a wedding in your location.

• Ask if they follow a script, personalize, or incorporate any religious beliefs and customs.

• Ask if they will help you write your vows.

• Ask if they offer premarital counseling.

Timing 10-12 MONTHS BEFORE: Meet and book officiant.

Start premarital or spiritual counseling.

6 MONTHS BEFORE: Discuss wishes for ceremony.

• Ask what they will wear when officiating.

• Ask about any backup plans or in case of an emergency.

• Ask if they return the signed marriage license to the Register of Deeds directly after the wedding.

2 MONTHS BEFORE: Check in about ceremony details and work on writing vows.

WEEK BEFORE: Confirm final details and timeline.

Gratuity While not expected, tipping a wedding officiant around $50-100 is common.

For officiants with a contracted fee, 15-25% of the total is typical. Couples may also consider donating to their house of worship. Don't forget, wedding officiants appreciate reviews!

244 WedPlan

VENUES • Ask about the capacity,features, and restrictions.

Timing

• Ask about the rental prices, damage deposits, and what is and is not included in your rental.

6-24 MONTHS BEFORE:

WHAT TO ASK

• Ask if an onsite coordinator will be present on the day of and their specific duties.

• Ask about bathrooms and getting ready spaces.

Tour and book your venue.

Timing will depend on venue popularity and season desired.

• Ask your venue how many weddings they schedule per day or weekend.

6 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask about vendor requirements.

• Ask if there are any expected remodels or renovations before your wedding day.

Food tasting if venue is catering

• Ask about sound systems, microphones, and available electrical outlets. Who is in charge of running the sound system? Do you need an outside company for any of these details?

3 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask about parking and handicap accessibility.

2-3 WEEKS BEFORE:

• Ask if they offer in-house catering or bar service, bar minimums.

• Ask about any off-season or off-day discounts.

Solidify final details, like guest counts, entrée counts, table assignments, and vendor schedules.

• Ask if there is heating and air conditioning, or if fans are available.

WEEK OF:

Details Meeting

• Ask about set-up and tear-down time options, and who does what.

Touch base with Site Coordinator.

DETAILS TO KNOW

Drop off place cards if catering.

Drop off decor.

• Know where you want to have your wedding as far as a country, state, and general location.

• Know whether or not you want your ceremony and reception at the same place.

• Know your wedding style, vibe, and formality.

• Know your desired features, guest count, & budget.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to consider potential weather obstacles and ensure a backup plan.

• Remember to take note of what items the venue has available and what you would need to rent or purchase.

• Remember to consider insect control for outdoor weddings.

Gratuity Depending on satisfaction with service, 15-25% is customary for bar and waitstaff, but custom amounts are also appreciated. Check your venue contract to see what fees and gratuities are already included in your booking.

An excellent review of your venue and its dedicated staff is also always appreciated!

• Remember to think through any transportation needs to the ceremony or reception sites, especially for elderly or disabled guests.

245

246 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

247

Emilee Meador Photography

From simple to elegant, choose the space that will best fit you and your guests from one of our four separate halls.

248 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

249

STONEY CREEK VENUE

BEAUTIFUL VENUE “THIS WAS THE PERFECT SETTING FOR OUR WEDDING AND RECEPTION. THE STAFF WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND THE VENUE WAS SHARP AND CLEAN. OUR WEDDING COORDINATOR WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND IN ALL THE DETAILS. SHE WORKED VERY HARD TO MAKE SURE THERE WERE NO COMPLICATIONS. SO MANY OF THE GUESTS COMPLIMENTED US ON WHAT A NICE PLACE WE HAD CHOSEN. IF I HAD TO DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN, I WOULD NOT CHANGE A THING. THE STAFF AT STONEY CREEK MADE OUR MEMORIES FABULOUS!” -SARAH H.

Stoney Creek La Crosse 3060 S Kinney Coulee Rd, Onalaska, WI 54650 608-781-3060 www.stoneycreekhotels.com/weddings

250 WedPlan

RUSTIC CHARM

Endless Character

Our La Crosse ballroom is newly renovated and displays the rustic elegance of Stoney Creek with a modern spin. Northwoods ballroom is 7,326 square feet of celebration space, fitting up to 450 people. Let the party spill out into our eclectic gathering areas right outside of the ballroom to enjoy good company, a crackling fireplace, and a well-equipped bar. With the hotel positioned right alongside an expansive nature preserve, couples will choose their wedding in La Crosse just for the view! Experience picturesque scenery with an outdoor ceremony and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Lumberjack’s Bar downstairs, which includes a fully furnished patio area overlooking the nature preserve.

Have your cake and eat it too Enjoy discounted group pricing for your guests, and focus on the festivities all happening underneath one roof! Room blocks can be made with your event coordinator, ensuring that all of your family and friends are in the same area of the hotel.

Enjoy additional celebrations after the reception has ended by visiting our on-site saloon locations.

251

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

Nothing isismore morebeautiful beautiful

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

THANFAMILIES FAMILIES COMING TOGETHER THAN COMING TOGETHER

You’llremember remember every begins your journey You’ll everymoment momentthat that begins your journey together,and and so so will family youyou surround together, willthe thefriends friendsand and family surround yourselfwith. with. With With 600 beauty, a gorgeous yourself 600acres acresofofscenic scenic beauty, a gorgeous ballroom, and unmatched personal attention, uniting ballroom, and unmatched personal attention, uniting families is what we do best. families is what we do best.

WildernessResort.com | 800-867-9453 (WILD) | weddings@WildernessResort.com

WildernessResort.com | 800-867-9453 (WILD) | weddings@WildernessResort.com

WISCONSIN DELLS

WISCONSIN DELLS

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

2023_Bridal Guide Back Page Full Color_2 page_2023.indd 1

252 WedPlan

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY WedPlan La Crosse

TARA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

TARA D

BOOK TODAY! BOOK TOD

OPEN YEAR OPEN YEAR RO OPEN ROUND

T RATARA TA DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY DRAPER TARAPHOTOGRAPHY DRAPER PHOTO

OurOur Resort Resort is Home is Home to: to: Wilderness Wilderness HotelHotel | Wilderness | Wilderness on the onLake the Lake | Sundara | Sundara Inn &Inn Spa&|Spa Wild| Rock Wild Rock Golf Club Golf Club Take Flight Take Flight Adventure Adventure Ride Ride | Glacier | Glacier Canyon Canyon Conference Conference Center Center • Event• staff Eventcoordinates staff coordinates planning planning and day-of and day-of eventsevents • On-site • On-site ceremony ceremony and lodging and lodging options options • Accommodates • Accommodates up to 700 up to guests 700 guests • Indoor • Indoor and outdoor and outdoor space available space available • On-site • On-site catering catering • Ample • Ample free parking free parking With over With20over years 20of years experience, of experience, the Wilderness the Wilderness ResortResort is the wedding is the wedding destination destination of the of Midwest. the Midwest.

You and You your andguests your guests will have willeverything have everything you need youto need enjoy to aenjoy wedding a wedding day orday weekend or weekend getaway. getaway.

APER TARAPHOTOGRAPHY DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

Bringing Bringing loved ones lovedtogether ones together is whatisWilderness what Wilderness ResortResort does best. does best.

TARA DRAPER TARAPHOTOGRAPHY DRAPER PHOTOGRAPHY

253

254 WedPlan

Forever Frozen Photography

e nu

Video

Ve

Host your event where beauty and serenity create unforgettable.

847-514-5423 | thetranquilityfarm.com

Wisconsin Dells

Forever Frozen Photography

Forever Frozen Photography

Forever Frozen Photography

255

256 WedPlan

The historic Cargill-Pettibone Mansion located near downtown in La Crosse, is the perfect place event space for micro-weddings, bridal showers & baby showers.

Visit our website for more information!

257

258 WedPlan

Full service wedding ceremony and reception venue with panoramic views of the Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wisconsin 328 Front Street, La Crosse, WI 54601 sales @thewaterfrontlacrosse.com | thewaterfrontlacrosse.com

259

Treat yourselves and your guests to an exquisite rural setting where heart and simple elegance come together.

Ceremony Site • Party Barn with On-Site Kitchen • In-House Bar Guest Cabins • Locally Sourced Food • Wood Fired Pizza Friday-Sunday Rental Available

sittinprettyfarm.org 260 WedPlan

261

Whitney Wyatt Photography

Welcome to your next

Wedding ceremony and reception venue.

Located in Southwest Wisconsin

chaptersonthehorizon.com

262 WedPlan

263

Historic Elegance: a National Historic Landmark nestled in Riverside Park along the majestic Mississippi River.

Versatile Spaces: From the main venue to the intimate lounge, experience the perfect blend of historic ambiance and modern luxury for your special day.

Contact us today to reserve your date!

Venue Photos: Savannah Steiger

Luxurious Lodging: Six boutique hotel rooms on-site, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable occasion from start to finish.

Love deserves the perfect setting.

Rachel Traxler

410 E. Veterans Memorial Dr., La Crosse | 608.769.2804 | hatcheryriverside.com | info@hatcheryriverside.com 264 WedPlan WedPlan La Crosse

WEDPLANLACROSSE.COM

willow + oak event center

Copper Antler Photography

206 east madison street, hillsboro, wi

hillsborobrewingcompany.com/willow--oak | @willow.oak.venue

Simply Unspoken Photography by Jessica

Simply Unspoken Photography by Jessica

Simply Unspoken Photography by Jessica

265

Brittany Eitsert Photography

• Experience Old World elegance in B’s Place Event Venue, Circa 1901.

• Seat up to 225 guests in one of the area’s more unique venues.

• Enjoy an urban chic courtyard with seating for up to 180 guests.

West Salem, Wisconsin | bsplacellc.com 266 WedPlan

4TH STREET BAR VENUE

4sistersevents.com | info@4Sisterslacrosse.com | 608-519-5940

SHOWERS

|

INTIMATE RECEPTIONS

|

BIRTHDAYS

Perfect for small gatherings up to 80 guests, in historic downtown La Crosse

forHisglory Photography

Rustic Charm

Up to 200 Guests | 1800s Barn Ceremony Pavilion | Spacious Deck | Fire Pit West Salem, Wisconsin | (608) 786-3567 horstmannhomesteadevents.com 267

GUEST

ACCOMMODATIONS WHAT TO ASK • Ask hotels about special group rates or other discount options.

• Ask if they offer a shuttle service to and from your venue.

• Ask about parking and any fees involved.

• Ask about hold policies regarding maximums, minimums, and when they will be released if not reserved.

Timing 12-24 MONTHS BEFORE: Book block of rooms.

8 MONTHS BEFORE: Include hotel and room block info on your save-the-date and wedding website.

3-4 MONTHS BEFORE:

• Ask if they will distribute any welcome bags or gifts at check-in or in guest rooms.

Start monitoring the hotel block on a weekly or monthly basis so you can adjust the number and type of rooms set aside if necessary.

DETAILS TO KNOW

1-2 DAYS BEFORE:

• Know what type of accommodations you are looking for for you and your guests.

Drop off guest welcome bags for the hotel to distribute.

• Ask any Airbnbs or VRBOs about their capacity, parking, and any rules or restrictions.

• Know what overnight options are near or around your reception venue.

• Know if you're looking to host any other pre- or post-wedding gatherings at the location, like a welcome reception, gift-opening party, or a pre- or post-wedding brunch!

• Know if you have any special guests you want to cover the cost of their stay.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Remember to offer a few different options at various price points.

• Remember to be aware of peak seasons or other local events occurring that may hinder availability.

• Remember to include your accommodation information on any invitations and on your wedding website.

• Remember to seek out any external transportation companies if needed.

268 WedPlan

Gratuity A lot of work goes into creating an unforgettable guest experience.

Throughout your stay, you will likely interact with room service, concierges, housekeeping, valets, and luggage attendants, all of whom it is customary to tip. Depending on the quality of service provided, a 15-20% tip is expected. For housekeeping or valet, consider tipping $3-5 per service, and for luggage attendants, $1-2 per bag. If you receive exceptional service, providing additional gratuity or writing a five-star review are great ways to express your satisfaction.

The historic Cargill-Pettibone Mansion located near downtown in La Crosse, is the perfect place event space for micro-weddings, bridal showers & baby showers.

Visit our website for more information!

269

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, BP Creationery, Skies the Limit Events, Meringue Bakery & Cafe, Chapters On The Horizon 270 WedPlan

GALLERY WEDDING GOWNS

|

272

FORMALWEAR

|

284

INVITATION SUITES

|

296

BOUQUETS

|

304

CAKES & DESSERTS

|

311

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

271

WEDDING GOWNS

272 WedPlan

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

273

274 WedPlan

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

275

276 WedPlan

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

277

278 WedPlan

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

279

280 WedPlan

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

281

282 WedPlan

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

Brides N' Belles, Melanin Beauty Bar, Chapters On The Horizon

283

FORMALWEAR

284 WedPlan

Dani Stephenson Photography

Courtney Paal Photography

285

286 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography

Evan Sowder Photography

287

288 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography

Copper Antler Photography

289

290 WedPlan

Wind and Waves Media

Chuck + Shiloh | Photo + Film

291

292 WedPlan

Twig & Olive Photography

Copper Antler Photography

293

294 WedPlan

Jewel Photography

Joe and Jen Photo

295

INVITATION SUITES

296 WedPlan

LK Bridal Studio

297

298 WedPlan

Express Printing

299

300 WedPlan

BP Creationery

301

302 WedPlan

Whimsical Design & Décor

303

BOUQUETS

304 WedPlan

Pennycress Studio, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Skies the Limit, Chapters On The Horizon

305

306 WedPlan

Crimson Clover Floral, Chapters On The Horizon, Orange Door Weddings

daffodil*parker, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

307

308 WedPlan

Melody Rose Designs, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Bloom & Knot, Chapters On The Horizon

309

310 WedPlan

Hy-Vee, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

CAKES & DESSERTS

Crumbtastic Cakery, Chapters On The Horizon

311

312 WedPlan

Cowboy David's Bakery, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Cowboy David's Bakery, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

313

314 WedPlan

Meringue Bakery & Cafe, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Meringue Bakery & Cafe, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

315

316 WedPlan

Linda's Bakery, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

Linda's Bakery, Chapters On The Horizon, 4 Sisters Events

317

318 WedPlan

Savannah Steiger Photography | Full Credits on pg 320

STYLED DESIGNS ROMANTIC BRIDGERTON

|

320

RUSTIC DUSTY BLUE

|

326

WESTERN BOHO

|

332

CHEERFUL '70s BOHO

|

338

CELEBRATION IN CITRUS

|

344

ICONIC DRIVE-IN ELOPEMENT |

350

DRAMATIC RED

|

356

TIMELESS BLACK-TIE

|

362

MOODY GOTHIC

|

368

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

319

ROMANTIC BRIDGERTON Coordination, Design, Planning, Rentals & Stationery: Orange Door Weddings Venue & Floral: The Greenhouse at Bittersweet Photography: Savannah Steiger Photography Videography: Hoffland Films Cake & Macaron Tower: Meringue Bakery & Cafe Fashion & Accessories: Charlotte's Bridal and Formal Wear Hair: Hair Dressed by Kristyn Makeup: Studio A Artistry Linens: Nuage Designs Chargers: BBJ La Tavola Flatware: 4 Sisters Events Escort Wall Lettering: Whimsical Design & Decor 320 WedPlan

321

322 WedPlan

323

324 WedPlan

325

RUSTIC DUSTY BLUE Floral, Coordination, Design & Rentals: Melody Rose Designs Venue: Horstmann Homestead Farm Photography: forHisglory Photography Videography: Morrison Media Stationery, Signage & Escort Wall: LK Bridal Studio Rentals: Resource Vintage Rental Cake: Crumbtastic Cakery Fashions: Brides N' Belles Hair: Metropolitan Salon & Spa Makeup: Makeup By Sarah Koblitz 326 WedPlan

327

328 WedPlan

329

330 WedPlan

??

331

WESTERN BOHO

Design, Coordination, Rentals & Floral: Kingsley Coordination Photography: Savannah Steiger Photography Rentals: AliLou Events Dress & Suit: Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear Stationery: BP Creationery Makeup & Hair: Makeup By Sarah Koblitz

332 WedPlan

333

334 WedPlan

335

336 WedPlan

337

CHEERFUL '70s BOHO Coordination, Design, Planning & Floral: Skies the Limit Events Venue: Willow + Oak at Hillsboro Brewing Company Photography: Emily Jean Photography Videography: Hoffland Films Rentals: AliLou Events Chair Rentals: Orange Door Weddings Linens: BBJ La Tavola Stationery & Signage: BP Creationery Cake: Southern Aprons Fashions: Brides N' Belles Hair & Makeup: Melanin Beauty Bar

338 WedPlan

339

340 WedPlan

341

342 WedPlan

Coordination, Design, Stationery & Signage: LK Bridal Studio | Venue: The Tinsmith Photography: Temerity Photography | Florals: Flowerbuds Floral | Gown & Suit: Brides N' Belles Hair & Makeup: Makeup by Francesca | Cake & Desserts: Cowboy David's Bakery | Rentals: Event Essentials, Velvet Rentals

343

CELEBRATION IN CITRUS Coordination, Design & Planning: OSO IN LOVE Wedding + Event Curators Venue: Celebrations on the River Photography: Skyler & Vhan Videography: BVisions Media Floral: Monet Floral Rentals: Celebrations on the River Rentals: Resource Vintage Rental Stationery & Signage: Express Printing Cake: Cowboy David's Bakery Fashion: Brides N' Belles Hair & Makeup: Su Casa Salon & Bridal Suite

344 WedPlan

345

346 WedPlan

347

348 WedPlan

349

ICONIC DRIVE-IN ELOPEMENT Venue: Dells Bells Wedding Chapel Photography: Savannah Steiger Photography Videography: Hoffland Films Stationery, Signage & Snack Wall: LK Bridal Studio Floral & Rentals: Melody Rose Designs Hair & Makeup: Beta Blue Beauty Groom's Suit: Men's Wearhouse Cakes: Craig's Cake Shop Cotton Candy Cart, Freeze Dried Candy & Lollipops: Lily's Magical Treats Projector & Stanchions: Celebrations Entertainment Diner & Milkshakes: Denny's Diner 350 WedPlan

351

352 WedPlan

353

354 WedPlan

355

DRAMATIC RED

Coordination, Design, Planning, Stationery & Rentals: Orange Door Weddings Venue: Cappella Weddings & Events Photography: LK Bridal Studio Videography: Boxcar Photography Floral: Monet Floral Rattan Chargers & Linens: BBJ La Tavola Flatware: 4 Sisters Events Cake: Meringue Bakery & Cafe Fashion: Charlotte's Bridal & Formal Wear Hair & Makeup: Metropolitan Salon & Spa 356 WedPlan

357

358 WedPlan

359

360 WedPlan

361

TIMELESS BLACK-TIE

Coordination, Design, Planning, Rentals & Linens: 4 Sisters Events Venue: Hatchery Photography: Jenna Walker Photography Videography: Boxcar Photography Floral: Cottage Garden Floral Stationery & Signage: LK Bridal Studio Cake: Cowboy David's Bakery Fashion: Charlotte's Bridal and Formal Wear Hair: Melanin Beauty Bar Makeup: Esthetician Devinne 362 WedPlan

363

364 WedPlan

365

366 WedPlan

367

MOODY GOTHIC

Photography & Concept: Savannah Steiger Photography Venue: Hatchery Planning & Floral: Skies the Limit Events Stationery & Signage: BP Creationery Hair: Hair Dressed by Kristyn Makeup: Studio A Artistry Dress: The Wedding Tree Rentals: 4 Sisters Events Cake: Meringue Bakery & Cafe 368 WedPlan

369

370 WedPlan

371

372 WedPlan

373

374 WedPlan

Codi Shandel Photography

REAL WEDDINGS A RAVEN'S TALE

|

376

RUSTIC SOUTHWEST RANCH

|

378

ENCHANTED FOREST

|

380

ROMANTIC GARDEN PARTY

|

382

RICH AUTUMN ELEGANCE

|

384

ROMANCE IN THE PINES

|

386

MAGICAL & MOODY

|

388

TEAL WITH A TWIST

|

390

CHIC BOTANICAL

|

392

TROPICAL DESTINATION DREAM |

394

WARM ORGANIC BOHO

396

|

follow us @wedplanlacrosse

375

BRAD & RYAN

October 13, 2023 | A Raven's Tale

Venue: SWAN BARN DOOR | Photography: CODI SHANDEL PHOTOGRAPHY Videography: IMPULSE PRODUCTIONS | Fashions: INDOCHINO HILLDALE Rings: BRODY DESIGNS | Floral: MELODY ROSE DESIGNS | Cake: COWBOY DAVID’S BAKERY Stationery & Signage: LK BRIDAL STUDIO | Rentals: D&S PARTY TENT RENTALS Music: DJ FELIX ENTERTAINMENT | Caricature Artist: BERNIE TENNIS 376 WedPlan

377

ELISA & QUINN

July 29, 2023 | Rustic Southwest Ranch

Venue: HORSTMANN HOMESTEAD FARM | Photography: WILD PINES PHOTOGRAPHY Dress: MARAH’S ELEGANT BRIDAL | Shoes: NO ROOTS BOOTS Florist: PENNYCRESS STUDIO | Catering: SCHUBY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BUTCHER Dessert: LINDA’S BAKERY | DJ: DB ENTERTAINMENT 378 WedPlan

379

JESSICA & CRAIG October 29, 2022 | Enchanted Forest

Planner: OLIVE BRANCH EVENTS CO. | Venue: GREAT ESCAPE LODGE | Rings: HOWES DIAMOND JEWELERS Photography: CARLIN CHRISTINE CREATIVE | Videography: MALLEK FILM | Hair: LYNN & COMPANY Fashions: AMELISHAN BRIDAL SALON, MEN’S WEARHOUSE, ETSY, THE WEDDING TREE, BALTIC BORN Caterer: POGY’S CATERING | Grazing Table: PRAIRIE BOARDS | Baker: JUSTJOSIE CAKE DESIGN Signage: LK BRIDAL STUDIO | Florist: DRIED FLOWERS FOREVER | DJ: MIKE MILLER DJ SERVICES Rentals: D&S PARTY RENTALS, RESOURCE VINTAGE RENTAL | Bartending: BUCKY’S SERVICES Ceremony & Cocktail Musician: COLE THOMAS MUSIC | Photo Booth: LITTLE CHIC SHASTA 380 WedPlan

381

WHITNEY & ZACHARY May 28, 2023 | Romantic Garden Party

Planner, Design & Rentals: ORANGE DOOR WEDDINGS | Venue & Catering: THE WATERFRONT CARGILL ROOM Photography: RACHEL TRAXLER PHOTOGRAPHY | Videography: BVISIONS MEDIA Dress: VERA’S HOUSE OF BRIDALS | Tuxes: CHARLOTTE’S BRIDAL & FORMAL WEAR Makeup: MAKEUP BY SARAH KOBLITZ | Hair: METROPOLITAN SALON & SPA Florals: FLOWERS ON BROADWAY | Stationery, Program & Monogram: KARA ANNE PAPER Acrylic Signage: WHIMSICAL DESIGN & DECOR | Cake: MERINGUE BAKERY DJ: DOUBLE PLATINUM DJ | Ceremony Music: CAMERATA STRING QUARTET Linens: BBJ LA TAVOLA | Transportation: READY BUS LINE, LUX PARTY BUS Accommodations: CHARMANT HOTEL, RADISSON HOTEL, COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT , FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BY MARRIOTT 382 WedPlan

383

RACHEL & COLLIN October 29, 2022 | Rich Autumn Elegance

Coordination, Florals & Rentals: SKIES THE LIMIT EVENTS | Photography: CHUCK + SHILOH | PHOTO + FILM Venue, Catering, Rentals & Transportation: CELEBRATIONS ON THE RIVER Rehearsal Dinner: 4 SISTERS 4TH STREET BAR | Rings: ANTHONY JEWELERS, ETSY Fashions: FLUTTER BRIDAL, REVELRY, THE MODERN GROOM | Hair & Makeup: SU CASA SALON Stationery: MINTED | Dessert: NOTHING BUNDT CAKES DJ & Photobooth: EVER AFTER ENTERTAINMENT 384 WedPlan

385

TAYLOR & ANDY August 25, 2023 | Romance in the Pines

Planner: ALPHA WEDDING COMPANY | Venue: BURLAP AND BELLS Photography: SAVANNAH STEIGER PHOTOGRAPHY Fashions: LUXE BRIDAL, MEN’S WEARHOUSE, SHOW ME YOUR MUMU Shoes: LULU’S | Hair & Makeup: ELLE HMUA | Stationery: MINTED Florals, Signage & Rentals: KALIE NICOLE EVENTS | Caterer & Cake: M & M CATERING Donuts: KWIK TRIP | DJ: JEFF LOVEN 386 WedPlan

387

ABBY & JORDAN October 8, 2022 | Magical & Moody

Planning, Design & Stationery: ORANGE DOOR WEDDINGS | Ceremony Venue: COURT ABOVE MAIN Reception Venue & Catering: CARGILL ROOM AT THE WATERFRONT Photography: TRUE MOUA PHOTOGRAPHY | Videography: BOXCAR PHOTOGRAPHY Fashion: THE WEDDING TREE, MEN’S WEARHOUSE | Hair & Makeup: MORGAN LYNN BEAUTY Rings: HELZBERG DIAMONDS, ROGERS & HOLLANDS JEWELERS | Dessert: MERINGUE BAKERY Ceremony Music: MAYGEN LACY | Reception Music: DJ QUADI | Florals: BITTERSWEET FLOWER MARKET Rentals: 4 SISTERS EVENTS, RESOURCE VINTAGE RENTAL, ORANGE DOOR WEDDINGS Linens: BBJ LA TAVOLA | Signage: WHIMSICAL DESIGN & DECOR | Transportation: LUXURY LIMOS 388 WedPlan

389

MORGAN & JACOB September 23, 2023 | Teal with a Twist

Venue, Caterer & Accommodations: WATERFRONT HOTEL-PRAIRIE DU CHIEN Photography: FOR HIS GLORY PHOTOGRAPHY | Fashions: THE WEDDING TREE, AZAZIE Hair: BACKSTAGE PASS | Makeup: MAKEUP BY ERIN CATHERINE | DJ: MUSIC MIX OF LA CROSSE Florals: BEE KIND FLORAL | Rings: ROSE JEWELERS, ANTLER RINGS Desserts: LINDA’S BAKERY, SAM’S CLUB, HY-VEE | Save the Dates: ZAZZLE Invitation, Programs & Signage: ETSY | Transportation: BACKWOODS PARTY BUS AND SHUTTLE SERVICE 390 WedPlan

391

HANNAH & NICK August 13, 2022 | Chic Botanical

Day-of Coordinator: GRIMZLOW, ETC. | Venue: THE NATURE PLACE Photography: DANI STEPHENSON PHOTOGRAPHY | Videography: ANNA QUERNEMOEN Fashions: THE WEDDING SHOPPE, MEN'S WEARHOUSE | Hair: GIGI GALLE PIERRE Makeup: CHRISTINA NECHVATAL | Rings: BRITTA KAUPPILA METALSMITH | Rentals:ALILOU EVENTS Florals: PENNYCRESS STUDIO | Catering: FATHEAD STEVE'S | Cake: MERINGUE BAKERY Dessert: PEARL ICE CREAM | Stationery: RACHEL WUNSCH DESIGN | Phone Guestbook: AFTER THE TONE Accommodations: CHARMANT HOTEL, RADISSON HOTEL 392 WedPlan

393

SANDY & KYLE

October 7, 2023 | Tropical Destination Dream

Planning & Design: ORANGE DOOR WEDDINGS | Coordinator: MELANIE FROM HOTEL XCARET Venue & Catering: HOTEL XCARET MÉXICO | Photography: JENNA WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY Videography: GROUP STUDIO XCARET | Wedding Dresses: MY DARLING BRIDAL Suits: CHARLOTTE’S BRIDAL AND FORMAL WEAR | Hair: GABRIELA FLANDES Makeup: DAYA DI STEFANO MAKEUP | Linens: BBJ LA TAVOLA Florals & Rental: CORAZON LUXURY WEDDINGS | Rings: MARK JEWELLERS Transportation: BARRY, MAYACAN ECO TOURS 394 WedPlan

395

JORDAN & AUSTIN June 23, 2023 | Warm Organic Boho

Planning, Design & Florals: SKIES THE LIMIT EVENTS | Venue: MAPLE GROVE VENUES Photographer: KANYON PHOTOGRAPHY | Fashions: CHARLOTTE’S BRIDAL & FORMAL WEAR Entertainment: KC ENTERTAINMENT | Makeup: MARISSA KLEMINS Hair: TRISHA SCHMITZ | Catering: OLD STYLE CATERING Dessert: THE BAKER’S DAUGHTER | Transportation: WILTON BUS SERVICE Rentals: RESOURCE VINTAGE RENTAL, ALILOU EVENTS, WELL LIT 396 WedPlan

397

398 WedPlan

Visit WEDPLANLAX.COM for vendor profiles, blog posts, inspo gallery, and our digital planning companion.

Tell your vendors you found them through WedPlan.

Submit your wedding for editorial consideration.

Follow us on socials

|

|

|

| @wedplanlacrosse

Tag us in your wedding posts!

xoxo,

m a e t n a l P the Wed 399

VENDOR INDEX 180 Grit, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

Jordana Snyder Photography . . . . . . . . 218

4 Sisters Events . . . . . . . . .223, 230, 267

Kingsley Coordination . . . . . . . . . . . 184

Alder & Root Photography . . . . . . . . . 214

La Crosse Center . . . . . . . . . . . 248-249

AliLou Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

La Crosse Photo Booth Co. . . . . . . . . 239

Apothik Eatery + Food Truck . . . . . . . 224

LC Custom Treats . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227

B's Place Event Venue . . . . . . . . . . . 266

Linda's Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227

Blissful Honeymoons & Destination Weddings . . . . . . . . . 243

LK Bridal Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

Blondes and Bridals . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 Bloom & Knot LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . 204

Makeup By Sarah Koblitz . . . . . . . . . 201 Melanin Beauty Bar . . . . Inside Front Cover, 196-197

BP Creationery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Melody Rose Designs . . . . . . . . 203, 231

Brides N' Belles . . . . . . . 194, Back Cover

Meringue Bakery & Cafe . . . . . . . . . 226

BVisions Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

Metropolitan Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . 199

Cappella Weddings & Events . . . . . . . 256

Mid-West Family Entertainment . . . . . 237

Cargill-Pettibone Mansion . . . . . 257, 269

Morrison Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221

The Cargill Room at the Waterfront . . . . 259

Orange Door Weddings . . . . . . . . 181, 233

Celebrations on the River . . . . . . 246-247

Orange Pearl Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . 198

Chapters on the Horizon . . . . . . . . . 262

OSO IN LOVE Wedding & Event Curators . . . . . . . . 183

Charlotte's Bridal and Formal Wear . 192-193 The Charmant Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . 258 Cinderella Carriage LLC . . . . . . . . . . 241 Cowboy David's Bakery . . . . . . . . . . 226 Crimson Clover Floral . . . . . . . . . . . 207 daffodil*parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205 Details Matter by Amber . . . . . . . . . 185 Elegant Outcomes . . . . . . . . . . .185, 233 Emily Jean Photography . . . . . . . . . . 212 Ever After Entertainment . . . . . . 236, 239 Express Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . .

190

forHisglory Photography . . . . . . . . . 216 Gert & Tog Photography . . . . . . . . . . 219 The Greenhouse at Bittersweet . . . . . . 261 Hair Dressed by Kristyn . . . . . . . . . 200 Hatchery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264 Horstmann Homestead Farm and Events . 267 Ivy Lane Weddings + Co. . . . . . . 186, 207 Jenna Walker Photography . . . . . . . . 217

400 WedPlan

Pennycress Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Petal Back Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Radisson Hotel La Crosse . . . . . . . . . 263 Resource Vintage Rental . . . . . . . . . 229 Savannah Steiger Photography . . . . . . 215 Sittin Pretty Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260 Skies the Limit Events . . . . . 182, 205, 224 Skyler & Vhan . . . . . . . . . . . . 210-211 Stoney Creek Hotel . . . . . . . . . 250-251, Inside Back Cover Studio A Artistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201 Su Casa Salon and Bridal Suite . . . . . . . 199 Tranquility Farm . . . . . . . . . . . 254-255 The Walk to Remember . . . . . . . . . . 186 Well Lit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232 Whimsical Design & Decor . . . . . . . . 190 Wild Elegance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213 Wilderness Resort . . . . . . . . . . .252-253 Willow + Oak Event Center . . . . . . . . 265

Dear Bride or Groom to be, We know how you might be feeling right now: eager, overwhelmed, excited, and hopeful.

We get that! And we hear you.

Here at Stoney Creek, we pride ourselves on making your day everything that you’ve ever pictured because we understand that you aren’t looking for a venue, you’re looking for an experience. Our event coordinators are here to make that happen for you and all of your guests. So take a deep breath, we’re in this together.

-Stoney Creek

Stoney Creek Hotel La Crosse, WI

3060 S Kinney Coulee Rd, Onalaska, WI

608-781-3060

www.stoneycreekhotels.com/weddings

Your Ultimate

Boutique

At Brides N’ Belles, we understand the significance of finding the perfect wedding gown, and our commitment to providing a unique and luxurious experience sets us apart. Our collections feature the most exquisite and fashionable bridal gowns that cater to the sophisticated tastes of today’s brides!

BRIDES N’ BELLES FEATURES • Over 600 bridal gowns • Wisconsin’s LARGEST selection of mother’s dresses • Men’s formal wear and tuxedos • In-house alterations

140 E. Main St., Reedsburg, WI 608.524.8133 Ext. 1 bridesnbells.com