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Welcome to the digital version of Premier Bride of Texas. You’ll find the same great content you love in our printed magazine plus even more. Feel free to page thru this book or jump right to the sections you’d like to find information about. To find specific vendors featured in this edition, please click on their names to the right. Visit premierbride.com for helpful information on bridal fashion, planning tools, honeymoon and wedding destination locations along with a gallery of pictures and ways to personalize your wedding.
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Is your ring insured?
As soon as bring your engagement ring home, make sure that your insurance policy is updated to offer adequate protection in the event of a loss or theft.
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Rings
T H E C I R C L E O F L O V E : U N D E R S T A N D I N G T H E B A S I C S It’s amazing, the power of a piece of jewelry to convey so much meaning… Engagement rings and wedding bands represent the never-ending love you have for each other, and let the whole world know you are married! Besides the exquisite beauty of wedding rings, there is a lot to know about metals, diamonds, and the care involved. This “Ring Primer” will help you understand all the basics.4
KNOW YOUR METALS Gold Gold is classic, beautiful and popular. Pure gold is too soft for practical use, so it’s mixed with other metals for jewelry. 14-karat gold retains its brilliant gold color, but is durable enough for daily wear, and can be polished easily. White gold White gold is made by mixing pure gold with other white metals such as silver, palladium or zinc. It does have a slightly yellow tint, unless it’s coated with a very white metal called rhodium. This provides a very white metal look, but it’s likely that it will need to be re-coated every one to two years as the rhodium wears away. Platinum Extremely popular in the last decade or so, platinum is a very white, heavy (which many people like that substantial feel), and durable metal. It’s a gorgeous, long-lasting compliment to diamonds! Popular demand for this metal has driven the price up quite a bit, and maintenance is more complicated than gold.
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Palladium A “sister” metal to platinum, palladium is a naturally white metal (whiter than white gold), and like platinum, it is strong, non-tarnishing and hypoallergenic. It’s also less expensive than platinum, making it a good metal to consider if you like the white metal look. Titanium and tungsten carbide Usually used for men’s wedding bands, both of these metals are extremely durable, 100% hypoallergenic and relatively inexpensive. Titanium can be oxidized to create some brilliant accent colors such as bright blue, purple and so on, creating a very unique and interesting look. Tungsten carbide is twice as hard as steel and almost impossible to scratch, making is a great metal for very active men. These metals cannot be resized once the ring is made, so order the size carefully. KNOW YOUR DIAMOND When shopping for a diamond, you will quickly be introduced to the “Four Cs” – cut, color, clarity and carat. All four features can make a dramatic impact on the quality, and therefore price, of a diamond. S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
RINGS Cut Cut really refers to the proportions of a diamond and it’s facets, as opposed to its shape, which includes round (brilliant), oval, pear, marquise, emerald, square (princess or radiant), heart and triangle. Regardless of its shape, a diamond gets its brilliancy from the cutting, and maximizing the reflection of light. When a stone is cut too shallow or too deep, the light that enters through the top is allowed to escape through the diamond’s bottom and minimizes its brilliance. Color The best color is no color at all (when desiring a white diamond), because it reflects the most light. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks diamonds on a standard 23-grade scale from D through Z. D, the highest rating, indicates a perfectly colorless stone, while Z, the lowest rating, indicates a light yellow stone. Clarity Clarity is defined by the number, color, nature, size and position of natural marks, called inclusions, contained in the gem. Inclusions occur naturally during the process of crystallization, when minute traces of minerals are trapped in the diamond. Excellent clarity means light can pass unimpeded through the stone and increases its value. The GIA judges clarity based on a standard 11-point scale from Flawless through Imperfect 3 (see the clarity scale at the end of this article.) Carat Diamonds are weighed in carats, which may also be expressed as “points,” where one carat equals 100 points. A diamond of 50 points, for example, equals ½ carat. Diamonds of more than one carat are extremely rare (one in a thousand), and therefore very valuable. But remember that carat weight is only one factor in determining value. Two diamonds of the same size can vary considerably in value depending on the other three factors – cut, color and clarity. APPRAISE IT Once rings have been selected and purchased, request an appraisal. This is a written estimate H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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of the value of your jewelry, and should include specific indications of the four Cs. Immediately after purchase, photograph your jewelry for insurance purposes, and make sure your current policy has adequate coverage. If it doesn’t, consult your insurance agent about amending your policy. TAKE GOOD CARE Although diamonds are the hardest natural substance known to man, a hard blow could still chip one, so don’t wear your ring when doing rough work. You should also avoid direct contact with chlorine bleach and chlorinated pool water, which could pit and discolor the mounting. To clean your jewelry, regularly soak them for about 30 minutes in either a commercial jewelry cleaner, or a homemade solution comprised of equal parts cold water and ammonia, or a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Brush the stones gently with an eyebrow brush or soft toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly under warm water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Have you rings checked annually by your jeweler for loose prongs or settings. This is especially important if you have only four prongs, because just one broken prong will cause you to lose your stone. These precautions and gentle care will pay you back with years of enjoyment and pride in this precious symbol of your union. DIAMOND CLARITY SCALE • FL & IF: Flawless and internally flawless (inclusions not visible under 10x magnification) • VVS1 & VVS2: Very, very slight inclusions (extremely difficult to see under 10x) • VS1 & VS2: Very slight inclusions (difficult to see under 10x) • SI1 & SI2: Small inclusions (noticeable under 10x) • I1, I2 & I3: Imperfect (flaws visible to the unaided eye)
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What’s important?
B U DGE TI N G YOU R B I G DAY
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know there have been better economic climates in which to plan a wedding than now… Just because you can’t throw down as much money as before, however, does not mean you can’t have the elegant wedding you’ve always dreamed of. You just need to be a little smarter about planning for it! Here are some tips to keeping the sparkle in your wedding in a budget-savvy way:
around for friends and family who might be willing to help you try something new to cut costs.
Do it yourself. Depending on how crafty or enterprising you are (or how crafty your maid of honor is!) there are countless things that you can do yourself, or have a fun afternoon with your wedding party doing together. With computer and photo programs becoming more advanced every day, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to design some of the printed material you’ll need for your wedding. Save-the-date cards, invitations and name cards can all be designed and printed entirely by you, or some copy or design shops offer the help of a professional to get you started. It is less expensive than paying for the full invitation service, but still gives it a professional touch. Other DIY could be making personal favors for the wedding guests, crafting your own centerpieces, enlisting the help of a friend or sister to do everyone’s hair and makeup for a smaller fee than a professional salon or making your own jewelry. Even if you don’t consider yourself a hands-on, creative person, don’t be afraid to ask
Transport your funds somewhere else. Limos or trolleys are fun and glamorous, but if your limited budget requires it, the drive to your reception would be just as memorable in your own decorated car with the best man serving as driver.
Cut the Cake. A fancy cake can be pretty expensive, but don’t go without a dessert! Ask your favorite bakery if they offer items just as pretty but smaller, such as fun cookies for everyone, design-your-own cupcakes or just a smaller version of a cake you have in mind.
It’s Friday, you’re in love. Saturday afternoons are the most common time for weddings, which mean they’re the most expensive. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s mandatory – Fridays and Sundays are both weekends so out-of-town guests would be able to make it, and you can still squeeze your dream venue into your budget. Also, try to avoid holiday weekends or the most popular times of year (May-June and early fall), as they are also usually more costly. Guest List reductions. It’s not easy to whittle down a list to include everyone you want enjoying in your special day while still managing a budget, but sometimes this is the easiest way to really cut corner,
A Moment in Time, llc WEDDING & EVENT PLANNING
Serving the Greater Houston, Austin & Bryan-College Station Areas
Susan Keough, Wedding Planner : (979) 204-4716 : aggielandweddings.com
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BUDGETING and can make a significant impact on your budget. If you still have a large amount of people you don’t want to say no to, consider hosting an informal, less expensive get-together when you’re back from your honeymoon to spend time with the people you couldn’t invite and celebrate your love. Save on Booze. Depending on your crowd, an open bar can be one of the costliest endeavors for your wedding. It’s poor etiquette to make your guests pay for ANY drink, but it’s perfectly appropriate to keep the options limited to beer, wine and soda, with mixed drinks available for cash purchase. Also depending on your reception site and/or caterer, ask if you can provide the liquor and beverages for the open bar, and look into buying your own beverages at a discount liquor store or wholesale club like Sam’s Club or Costco. The most important thing to remember when trying to budget your wedding is that it is one day. A special and meaningful one, of course, arguably one of the most memorable days of your life, but it is the beginning of a future together and you don’t want money problems to be the way you start married life. Keep in mind that all your guests might not have their wedding favors in 50 years, but if you still have your love for one another, your wedding was a success. Ask the Right Questions • What packages do you offer? What do they include? • Are your fees based on total cost of wedding or an hourly or flat rate? • Have you done weddings similar to mine? • What cultures and traditions are you familiar with? • Do you offer “day of the wedding” assistance? • Will you be willing to work with the coordinator at my reception location? • Can you provide me with special rates when working with various vendors? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much?
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Set the mood.
For a sensuous pause before a highenergy party, have a small jazz quartet set the tone with a wine and micro-beer tasting, served with cheese selections.
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Reception
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW B E F O R E B O O K I N G A S I T E You’ve been pronounced “husband and wife,” so now it’s time to kick off those heels and celebrate! This is a time for you and your brand new husband to relax, mingle, dance, chat and thoroughly enjoy the company of your friends and loved ones. While finding the ideal reception location is one of the biggest and most important weddingrelated tasks, have no fear... we’re here to help. Below are three simple steps to finding the right reception site for your perfect day.4
STEP 1: WHAT TO DO FIRST The biggest question regarding the reception is “where?” Before you can work on this question, however, you’ll need to know a couple of things: what style of wedding do you envision, and how big? Obviously, a casual, relaxed summer afternoon reception would require a completely different reception site than a formal, elegant winter evening reception – so clarify the type of wedding (and the time of year) you both desire first. Once that’s been established, determine the rough guest list, including all interested parties: you and your groom, and each set of parents. Of course, you’ll also need to consider your budget as well, as this will have great influence on the number of guests you can afford to have. Once you’ve made these critical decisions, it’s time to start looking for the ideal reception site. As with anything, the more time you have, the better – some choice reception sites get booked one to two years in advance, particularly for prime dates.
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STEP 2: START THE SEARCH Local bridal publications, the Internet, wedding shows, married friends and the yellow pages are all good sources of potential reception sites. If you have no idea where to hold your reception, try hotels, banquet halls, restaurants, community centers and country clubs. Other less obvious options are country inns, historic homes or mansions, city parks, college or university facilities, art galleries, museums and boats. Each location offers its own unique style and ambiance. There are two basic types of reception facilities: on-site and off-site. Most on-site locations provide the majority of services you will need for your reception: catering, beverages, tables, chairs, tableware, linens and serving staff, making this a very convenient option. The facilities normally charge on a per person basis, and have a minimum guest requirement. Such locations include hotels, private clubs and restaurants. Off-site locations offer the use of the facility only, providing no other services. You supply nearly everything yourself, paying a flat fee for the use of the site. The nice thing about off-site locations is the freedom to do everything S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
RECEPTION your own way, and more choices – although this can also mean more work! Narrow down your search by focusing on those sites that seem to best meet your needs, depending on your style, season and estimated guest count. Once you’ve selected some possibilities, it’s time to go on a road trip with your fiancé, maid of honor and/or Mom and check out the sites in person. Step 3: Evaluating reception sites Now the real work begins. Every site offers advantages and disadvantages, and your job is to sift through all of the features of each site, to find the best one for your wedding – all while keeping your budget in mind. Here are some factors to consider: Location. The reception site should be no more than a 30-minute drive away from the ceremony location. A longer drive than that is really asking too much of your guests! If the location is difficult to find, or will offer special challenges to get
there (say, located near a football stadium that has a home game on your wedding day) you should consider providing transportation for your guests from the ceremony site, and back to their cars after the reception. Size and layout. Will everything happen in one big room, or in separate rooms for the cocktail hour, dinner, dancing? Will it comfortably hold the number of tables you’ll need, and will everyone dine in the same room? Is there room for a band or DJ, and for cocktail hour musicians, if you’re having them? Privacy. If your venue does multiple events, find out if there are other bookings on the same day or time as yours. If so, ensure that there will be adequate privacy and separation for your celebration. There should also be ample time in between events to allow your caterer or other service people to set up or break down your party. Parking. Make sure there is convenient, welllighted, ample parking for your guests, and if not, find out if valet service is available.
The Elegant Venue for Weddings and Events Occasions at Stone River is a beautiful, brand-new all-inclusive wedding and reception venue located in Royse City, just 20 miles east of Dallas. Our unique venue is PERFECT for your upcoming ceremony, wedding reception or rehearsal dinner. Some of our features include: Beautiful Outdoor Gazebo for your Wedding Ceremony Indoor Chapel that Seats 200 of your Guests Stunning Grand Ballroom for your Wedding Reception Affordable, All-Inclusive Wedding Packages for Every Budget
Occasions at Stone River 1250 FM 2453 Royse City, Texas 75189 (214) 674-0818
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RECEPTION Technical details. Whether you intend to have a DJ or a band, inquire about possible restrictions regarding the type, volume or duration of music. Be sure to confirm that there is an adequate power supply for speakers, mixers and amplifiers, or good acoustics for string and wind instruments. Some sites have built-in public-address systems which can be used for introductions and toasts. If your site of choice doesn’t offer this equipment, make sure your DJ or musicians can provide it.
inclement weather. Planning for an outdoor reception is usually much more work overall, because you have to provide for everything from the salad forks to the tents to the chairs, and you may need to change plans at the last minute due to the weather! For these reasons, it’s highly recommended that you use an experienced wedding coordinator if you want an outdoor reception – this will ease your workload, and your stress, immensely.
Room décor. Most sites offer a neutral background to work with, but make sure the flooring, wall coverings and colors will work with the style and season of your wedding.
Down to details As with any wedding vendor, make sure that all details are outlined in writing, and use a credit card whenever possible when making payments so that you have more protection in the unlikely event of a problem. You should feel very comfortable with your contact person, and feel that they respond in a timely and efficient manner to your questions and requests. Visit premierbride.com’s online wedding planner for a comprehensive list of questions to ask potential reception sites, and other great wedding planning help.
Services offered. Be clear, with each site visited, exactly what is and is not included. From catering and wait staff, to candles and chairs… get those details up front. A note about outdoor receptions If you’re planning an outdoor reception, it’s critical to have a back-up plan in case of
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A History of Romantic Weddings Hotel Galvez & Spa | For generations brides have selected the Hotel Galvez as the perfect setting for romantic weddings. From its grand salons to its intimate gardens, the Hotel Galvez has a style and charm that cannot be duplicated. every aspect of your special day will be perfectly arranged by our experienced staff. Call us today to arrange a lifetime of memories.
................................... 2024 SeAWAll Blvd, GAlveSTON ISlANd, TX FOR ReSeRvATIONS CAll 409.765.7721 OR vISIT www.WyndhamHotelGalvez.com
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The Candies Table
A NEW AND DIFFERENT TWIST
Sure, the wedding cake is a tried and true part of weddings since before any of us can remember. But why give your guests one measly piece of cake when you could let them indulge in a buffet full of candy? A candy table is the latest trend in wedding desserts, and it’s not difficult to figure out why. It can be as casual or upscale as you like, it’s the perfect accent to any reception venue, it’s fun and personal, and most importantly it will leave your guests enchanted and sweetly sated. Here’s how to make your candy buffet the talk of the town. CHOOSE YOUR SWEETS Remember candies and sweets come in every shape, size and delectability, so take your guests, venue and design into account, then choose your treats accordingly. For an outdoor, casual wedding full of light and color, you might want to go for a rainbow of whimsical variety with bright rock candy, every hue of jelly bean, gummies, silly-shaped chocolates, lollipops, gumballs, striped candy canes and a chocolate fountain with marshmallows and fruit. An indoor, more upscale formal event could call for candies such as toffees, exquisite varieties of chocolate bars, biscotti cookies, decorative chocolate-covered pretzels and strawberries, macaroons, pastry puffs and sugar or yogurt coated nuts and raisins.
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DESIGN Like your sweet selection, your design can match your wedding. For something casual and playful, arrange your colorful candies in clear jars of every shape and size like an old candy store. A more upscale look could present your desserts in classy giant martini glasses or on small decorative plates arranged on different levels over an expansive, dramatically lit table. Custom-order candies or candy wrappers to stick within your color scheme. Only choosing candies of two or three colors also creates a striking design. Another fun idea is to put two or three different candy containers at each individual table as centerpieces so guests can mix and match as they mingle between tables. LIKE KIDS IN CANDY STORES! Once you’ve decided on your sweets and display, get ready to let sweet teeth run wild. Prepare fun dessert plates, plastic bags, or oversized wine glasses where guests can collect their treats. Make sure every separate serving dish has a decorative scooper so fingers don’t dirty the delights, then step back and let the inner child in all your guests pick and choose from the tasty array. As guests are leaving, give them an artsy, monogrammed bag and ask them to peruse the buffet again for an edible wedding favor.
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South Shore Harbour Country Club Weddings From the newly renovated clubhouse to the outdoor ceremony location adjacent to our 27 hole championship golf course, South Shore Harbour creates the ideal setting for your wedding day. We have options for hosting small, intimate gatherings or large social events for up to 250 guests. Menus for your event may be customized to include formal plated dinners or elegant, buffet-style meals. Our professional staff will carry out every detail so you can fully experience your memorable day! For more inFormation, Call (281) 334 - 0521 x. 7 or viSit www.CanongatetexaS.Com/weddingS. 4 3 0 0 S o u t h S h o r e B o u l e va r d | l e a g u e C i t y, t e x a S | 7 7 5 7 3
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Cake Flavor Tip If you decide on a basic tiered cake, use different flavors/fillings for each layer to appeal to more tastes.
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Cakes
YOUR WEDDING CAKE: SWEET ENDING TO A SPECIAL DAY It’s the sweetest wedding task of them all – deciding on dessert for your big day. Tradition calls for a tiered cake with your plastic (un) likeness smacked on top, but brides and bakers are breaking cake molds to create funky and fresh options that add the icing to your wedding. Take in all the options, work with a pro to make it custom and whatever you do, don’t miss out on any tasting!4
CHOOSING YOUR DESSERT What first? Think about the rest of your wedding. Your dessert should match your day, so take everything into account. If you have a paisley themed wedding at an indoor reception venue, a large tiered cake with paisley fondant would make a beautiful room centerpiece. If your day is going to be more princess pink, maybe you’ve considered a cupcake castle tower. A casual outdoor wedding is the perfect venue for a table of tasty and colorful candies or make-your-own ice cream sundaes. Did you meet at a baseball game? Order up a baseball stadium-shaped cake, complete with you two lovebirds in the stands! Do you share an interest such as running? Ask around for bakers who could make a replica cake of your running shoes tied together at the laces. Wedding cakes and desserts are one of the latest wedding designs to start challenging convention, so bakeries are always looking to keep up with the latest trends and really customize your dessert. So, if you have a sweet idea, find someone who can work with it.
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Book Early! Demand for customized and intricate wedding desserts mean bakeries fill up quick for wedding weekends. It’s safe to have something booked six months in advance, especially if you’re getting married during high season. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you have to know exactly what you want so far ahead of time. First, shop around in general for bakeries, and when you find one you think can satisfy your needs for taste, quantity, efficiency and personality, book a date. Then, you can really work with a pro to determine exactly what it is you want. So…how do I find the bakery? Trusting your gut is always sound advice, especially so when it comes to a food decision! Any dessert should be delicious, so your tasting is important. Make sure you sample all they have to offer that interests you. But since this isn’t an ordinary dessert you’re ordering, make sure you’re comfortable with the efficiency and professionalism of the bakery as well. They should return your calls and e-mails on time, be flexible with you and your needs, be willing to customize your S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
CAKES dessert, be familiar with your reception venue and guarantee an on-time dessert, including of course set-up, delivery, and clean-up if necessary. You don’t want to be worrying about if your cake is going to show up on your big day. As with every wedding decision you make, don’t be afraid to switch bakeries or make demands if you don’t feel comfortable with the service you’re receiving. And the cost… Cakes are typically priced by the slice, which is generally anywhere from $1.50 to $6.50 per slice, depending on the style, ingredients, size and decorating. Your reception site or caterer may also charge a plating fee as well, often $.50 to $1.50 per person, to cut and serve the cake. Ask about this, and if there is a plating charge see if it’s negotiable. Cutting the Cake. Most likely your baker will provide tips for you and your new spouse to accomplish the
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time-honored task of cutting the cake with ease. Plan ahead to have your cake knife and lifter engraved or decorated with ribbons or fresh flowers. Traditionally, the bride grasps the knife with her right hand and the groom covers her hand with his. Together, the couple glides the knife into the delicious masterpiece while flashbulbs pop. 1 Year Later. Some bakeries offer ‘anniversary cakes’ as part of their bridal packages. Instead of having to freeze the top layer of your wedding cake (which doesn’t always freeze well, or taste that great a year later), the bakery will make you a fresh cake, often in the same style and flavor as your wedding cake, for your one-year anniversary. Cake, Shmake. Here are some tasty treats that may suit your wedding better than the traditional cake.
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Celebrate
Life’s Finest Moments
1302 S. Friendswood Drive Friendswood, TX 77546 281.482.3072 www.cakeladybakery.com
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CAKES Centerpiece cakes. Pull double duty and use a beautiful wedding cake as the centerpiece for each of your tables. Some ambitious newlyweds stop at each table to cut and serve their guests the cake, which is a beautiful idea, but depending on the timetable and the number of tables this won’t work for everyone. Cupcake Tower. Individual cupcakes are fun, the perfect serving size and allow for all kinds of decorating freedom you might not have with a traditional cake. Cupcake arrangements could be anything from a tower that resembles a traditional tiered cake to something more inventive such as mismatched layers of different colored cupcakes over decorated shelves. Make-Your-Own-Sundae! Who doesn’t love an ice cream sundae? Think of every topping you can, and then some, then let your guests run wild. Perfect for an outdoor summer wedding or one with lots of children, your guests will be craving this at every wedding they attend after yours. The make-your-own theme can also be popular
with the cupcakes, if you provide a few types of frostings and toppings. Candies Table. The newest trend in wedding desserts, an array of colorful candies is sure to make eyes pop and sweet teeth scream. Arrange glass containers such as antique jars, fishbowls or giant martini glasses of gummies, chocolates, licorice, jelly beans, mints, toffees and more over an expansive table. Then, give guests a little (or huge!) plate or plastic bag and let them be a kid in a candy shop again. Pick treats that match your colors (often wrappers and candy colors can be custom ordered if they don’t match yours) or just let a rainbow of sweets entice the room. Late Night Coffee. This works best for small, upscale weddings with mostly adults as guests. Bring in a barista to whip up comforting lattes, cappuccinos and espressos to go with some rich coffee pastries such as biscotti or tiramisu.
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SELECTING A CAKE: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS • Do you specialize in any certain styles or flavors? • Can you design a wedding or groom’s cake from a photograph or idea? • Can you match the cake colors to fabric swatches or flowers? • Can you create individual cakes to be used as wedding favors? • Can you accommodate special dietary needs? • Do you offer a tasting? • How much time do you need to prepare the cake at the reception? • Do you price by the slice or by the cake? Do you have a price list? • Will you charge for supports or bases on the cake? May I return them? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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Budget wisely.
Don’t forget that taxes and gratuities can be a large chunk of your food and beverage costs, so make sure you’re including these in your budget.
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Catering
7 STEPS TO PERFECT WEDDING CUISINE Almost every meaningful ritual, in every culture around the globe, includes food as an integral part of the celebration. “Breaking bread together” is an intimate way for people to share an experience, enjoy each other’s company and enhance the sense of ritual. The food and beverage served at your wedding is a significant element in the whole wedding ritual, as well as a significant chunk of your overall budget… so invest the time, energy and budget necessary to do this part well!4
Step 1: Start the search. Your search begins once you have selected your reception site. Some locations require that you use their in-house caterer or banquet department, which makes your choice fairly simple. These locations include hotels, country clubs and some of the more unusual facilities such as museums, boats or historical homes. You may also be asked to select an independent caterer from a pre-approved list. If you are in a position to select your own caterer, try to narrow down your list to no more than three; otherwise, you will be tasting food for a month. When you call each caterer, have as much information ready as possible such as your wedding date, time of day, approximate number of guests and the degree of formality and style. If you have any general menu ideas or preferences, let the caterer know so they can be better prepared for your initial meeting. If possible, have them send you some sample wedding menus and references to review beforehand. Step 2: Determine your service style. At the initial meeting, caterers will want to discuss your tastes and budget in detail. Your BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
choices will most likely include the following options: a sit-down meal, a buffet, passed hors d’oeuvres or food stations. Your caterer will be able to describe all of these options and their appropriateness for the time of day, number of guests and style. Step 3: Schedule a tasting. When you finally narrow down your service style, most caterers will ask to arrange a time for you and your fiancé to sample their cuisine. This is called a tasting, and it usually takes place at the caterer’s establishment. It may coincide with another event they’re catering and they will simply prepare two extra meals. If you’ve indicated a preference for the less ordinary, however, they may prepare some of their more unusual items for your approval. Step 4: Design the menu. Start by searching through magazines, web sites, and bridal shows to clarify your likes and dislikes, along with anything you know you want or don’t want. Armed with this information, work closely with your caterer to craft the perfect wedding menu for you and your guests. The number of guests you expect at your wedding, level of formality, the time S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
CATERING of day and your budget all have great influence on your menu selection… so rely on the professional experience of your caterer to take all of these elements into consideration. When selecting your menu items you might also want to bear in mind that there is a real trend towards “healthy eating” and you may have a few vegetarians as well. Step 5: Calculate the cost. Once you’ve selected a caterer, it’s time to get down to business. Money. Most caterers base their prices on a per-person cost. Facilities with inhouse catering departments may have a minimum charge or set-up fee, while an off-premises caterer will usually work within any reasonable, agreedupon budget. It’s relatively easy to calculate the overall food cost, which equals the number of guests multiplied by the cost per person. Some caterers offer lower prices or special menus for children, so be sure to let them know the number of children in attendance. Mentally add an additional 10 percent for overage, and 15 to 20 percent for a gratuity, if appropriate. Remember,
typically the wedding cake is not included in the meal cost. Your final guest count is usually required one week before the event. This will be the minimum number of people for which you will actually be charged. Most caterers will plan on the addition of a few last-minute guests and will add the meals to the bill after the wedding. Although it is not required, you may consider including meals for wedding-related personnel, such as the DJ, musicians, photographer and consultant. If cost is an issue, ask your caterer about “vendor meals.” These meals are more casual than the guest menu and are offered at a lower cost per person. Remember to get specifics as to what extras are included in the caterer’s charges, such as table linens, plates, glasses, crystal, silverware and service pieces. Step 6: Plan the help. Once the menu is finalized, the next step is determining the number of wait staff you
A Dramatic Backdrop for a Storybook Wedding The Tremont house is legendary for its gracious hospitality and stylish accommodations. our charming rooftop terrace and spectacular ballroom are the perfect backdrop for intimate and grand weddings. our professional staff will make sure that every detail is handled to perfection. Visit us today and let us make your dreams come true.
................................. 2300 Ship’S mechAnic roW GALVeSTon iSLAnD, TX For reSerVATionS cALL 409.763.0300 or ViSiT www.WyndhamTremonthouse.com
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www.mynoahs.com 1 800 696 6247 www.facebook.com/mynoahs THE PREMIER TEXAS WEDDING VENUE. COMING FALL 2011.
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BLISSFUL BEGINNINGS Your wedding is to be cherished with family and friends. At The Westin Galleria & Westin Oaks Houston we promise to make your day more than just special. We’ll make it memorable. Our highly personalized and attentive service will make the entire experience perfect for you and all your guests. For more information, call our wedding specialists at 713.960.8100. westin.com/galleria westin.com/oaks
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CATERING will need to serve your feast and keep your reception running smoothly. Your caterer will certainly help with this, but a general guideline is one server for every 10 to 12 guests for a sit-down dinner. In addition, providing a full and open bar will require more staffing than a limited bar with wine, beer and soft drinks. Be sure to confirm the proper attire for the wait staff beforehand so it is in keeping with the degree of formality for your reception. Step 7: Finalize the details, in writing. Specify the day, date and time; the address of the site; food items by course and the number of guests covered; provisions for special meals; the time of the cocktail hour; the time the meal will be served; contact people, including someone from your end with whom the caterers can consult; the number of servers and bartenders and their uniforms; linens; beverages to be served and bar guidelines; terms of payment; and liability insurance. Typically, an advance deposit is due when you sign the contract and remember to check on the cancellation policy for unforeseen events. UNIQUE IDEAS IN CATERING Please pass the potatoes. If you love spuds, consider a “mashed potato bar” serving a delicious variety of mashed potatoes, served in martini glasses and drizzled with the guest’s choice of gravy or sauce. A trip around the world. Give your guests a culinary trip across the globe, with a variety of food stations offering a wide range of ethnic food… Moroccan, Italian, Asian, French, to name a few ideas. Personalize your “cheers!” Work with your experienced bartender to create a custom cocktail to serve during cocktail hour. Name it after the two of you, or after something near and dear to your hearts. Sweet tooth? In addition to your wedding cake, or instead of it, entice your guests with a dessert table such as a cannoli bar, an ice cream buffet or a mini-pastry display.
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Ceremony locations
CHOOSING WHERE TO WED
For centuries churches and synagogues have been the traditional choice for the sacred act of exchanging vows. Lending an air of reverence and dignity to even the most casual of ceremonies, these holy places have created the perfect setting for the formal commitment of marriage.
There are many unique options for couples who, for whatever reason, would prefer an alternate location. Consider holding the event at a nondenominational church or chapel. These locations usually have fewer rules and guidelines than other formal houses of worship, yet still provide a spiritual setting. Have the ceremony at the reception venue. Couples often choose this option as a convenience for their guests, minimizing the distance one must travel from ceremony to reception. Facilities that provide this option
normally have separate areas for each event, or a plan for quickly converting the room.
Sometimes places with the most personal significance make the best ceremony locations. For example, a park you walked through on your first date, the backyard where one of you grew up or a relative’s home where you enjoy spending time are all good choices. If you love the outdoors, consider holding your ceremony at a city park, the beach, a zoo, or even at the foot of a national landmark. If you’re a little on the daring and outrageous side, you might consider exchanging vows while sky diving from a plane, scuba diving, or in a hot air balloon. Whatever your preference, there is no right or wrong way to say “I do.”
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SELECTING A CEREMONY SITE: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS • Is your facility open to non-members? • Do you have any restrictions on times or days of the week? • Do you have any restrictions or limitations on lighting, cameras, audio or video equipment? • Do you have a dress code? • Are outside musicians permitted to perform? • Will any decorations be available through you? • Are there dressing rooms? • When could we have a rehearsal? • Is ample parking available? • Are there adequate restrooms? Are they easily accessible for elderly and handicapped guests? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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WED D I N GS AT SA N LU IS WITH
Cultural Flair, Tradition & Ceremony
Galveston Island is a short drive from Houston, but miles away in style and attitude. The wedding professionals at The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center relish the opportunity to work with families from around the world to include the many customs, r i t u a l s , traditions and religious ceremonies of each culture. And creating a traditional Indian wedding is at the top of the list. From food to ambiance, you’ll find the perfect combination.
Executive Chef AJ Junnarkar, originating from Bombay, will dazzle taste buds with regional cuisines personalizing each menu based on a family’s religious and regional beliefs. Chef AJ not only perfects Indian cuisine, he also specializes in American and a variety Asian selections, so that modern couples-to-be are respectively represented. He is known for
overseeing every detail from beginning to end and adding touches that make a wedding special.
He once heard that the groom proposed to his bride in front of their favorite vegetarian hot dog stand in Chicago. Chef AJ created an actual hot dog stand for the reception with vegan dogs Chicago style. The resort also features many locations that are ideal for Mehendis, Sangeets, Baraats, ceremonies and receptions. Whether you are looking for a tropical wedding with your mandap overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or a more formal ceremony in a ballroom setting, the resort is the perfect backdrop and can accommodate groups up to 1,000 guests. Plan your destination wedding on Galveston Island and let the Baraat begin.
PB TIPS HAVE A THEMED WEDDING A specific time period, a country or sports team that the two of you love. Or even a costume theme! (Be aware that most guests will not want to dress up). Think about how much fun and interesting it would be to plan the event around the theme of your choice. Some of the most popular themes are winter, tropical, and garden.
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San Luis Luxury
WEDDINGS ON THE BEACH WITH
No need to worry about the sand, the weather or the caterer. The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center can handle every wedding detail from a grand seated affair for 1,200 or an intimate celebration for just the bride and groom.
vision for a magical experience for weddings, rehearsal dinners or bridal luncheons. The resort features several venue facilities including the elegantly designed Grand Ballroom to accommodate up to 500 guests and the Mainsail Salon for more intimate receptions as well as world-class menus and service. Fresh air ceremonies are available in the Gulf-view Gazebo creating a magical backdrop for lifetime commitments. “It’s perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners and bridal luncheons,” said Paul Schultz, Vice President of Hospitality for Landry’s Hotel Division. “Every detail will be attended to and executed flawlessly. We will ensure that your special day is absolutely perfect.” For wedding day elegance, Spa San Luis offers professional make-up artistry and coiffures, pre-wedding massages and relaxation sessions and a fitness center.
The San Luis Resort’s 30 acres of plush seaside amenities and award-winning accommodations gives planners a choice of venues, views and
And, with more than 600 first-rate guest rooms throughout the property including The San Luis, The Hilton Galveston Island, and Holiday Inn Resort on the Beach, there’s plenty of room for family and friends. Located on the Galveston Seawall, Holiday Inn Resort on the Beach offers an affordable option full of premier amenities for newlyweds who want to enjoy the beauty of the Gulf on their special day.
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PB TIPS FEELING GOOD INSIDE AND OUT For good skin and better body on your wedding day, your diet should focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid fad diets because they are stressful to the body and can end up backfiring in the end.
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Pampering & Primping
SPA SAN LUIS ADDS HAIR U WE AR®
Spa San Luis at the award winning San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center has added a stunning selection of wigs and hair enhancements perfect for weddings, proms, medical patients or vacationers looking for a fun change.
hair care products specifically designed for the enhancements. Whether you choose a human hair or synthetic fiber wig, the state-of-the-art wig construction gives these wigs a realistic
“Our clients expect new, trendy services and products from Spa San Luis and we enjoy leading them there,” said Christine Toop, spa director. “We chose the highest-quality hair enhancement company to partner with.” Hair U Wear®, parent company of Great Lengths human hair extensions and offered by Spa San Luis for years, is considered the Rolls Royce of all hair enhancement companies. “There is a growing trend for hair enhancements of all sorts,” said Toop. “These are not your Grandmothers’ wigs. New technology has made them very stylish, natural-looking, and even moderately priced.” The salon offers a selection of full wigs, “pieces” that enhance length and/or thickness of hair, add instant bangs, ponytails, or chignons, and even add instant, temporary, damage-free high or lowlights. With the close proximity to UTMB, patients suffering from hair loss due to age, genetic disorder, chemotherapy, iron deficiencies and more will find sensitive, private assistance and consultation. “We’ve had a brisk response,” said Toop. “We saw the vision, but even we are a little surprised … pleasantly.” Customers will also find professional fittings, style and care consults along with a line of BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
appearance and a sleek, natural look. The fibers simulate protein rich hair for a lustrous, authentic look and feel. The wide selection of colors reflects the multitonal shades that are requested in today’s better salons. In many ways, synthetic wigs are easier to handle than human hair because the style is baked into the fiber keeping the shape intact day after day. For those who prefer human hair, the style can be changed using thermal or other styling tools used with one’s own hair. Human hair wigs give you the option to style the hair straight one day and curly the next.
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MESSINA HOF WINERY AND RESORT
The Perfect Wedding Day Destination
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, these things are all up to you.
Messina Hof Winery and Resort provides the rest of the wedding day essentials plus the newest trends in wedding events. The winery’s full service events group, Designer Events, has been helping brides since 1984 create and produce unique, pictureperfect and unforgettable wedding celebrations.
Imagine your wedding in the natural beauty of a vineyard or near a spring-fed lake on a private estate. Messina Hof offers 10 different venues perfect for wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, engagement parties, and Sunday brunch. With such unique venues, Messina Hof can host events that range from 2 to 300 guests indoors and 2000 outdoors. Located above the Vintage House restaurant, the Art Gallery and Balcony offer panoramic views of the vineyard, antique hardwood floors, and the Bonarrigo collection of award winning artwork from Texas artists. The rose is the eternal symbol of love and the romantic Rose Garden boasts 350 antique roses with an alter draped in perfumed star jasmine. The Villa offers the most romantic and intimate of weddings. Picture yourself floating down the
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grand staircase or exchanging vows in front of the carved mahogany fireplace with marble hearth. Your closest family and friends stay only footsteps away in ten luxurious rooms. The Villa also offers honeymoon and anniversary packages. Messina Hof Winery and Resort was established in 1977 by Co-Founders Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo. The name originates from their family heritages. Paul’s family was from Messina, Sicily, and Merrill’s family was from Hof, Germany. Messina Hof was founded on family values, romance and tradition. Messina Hof is a leader in the establishment of the Texas wine industry and ranks as one of the fastest growing, most award-winning wineries in the state. Four time winner of the “Top Texas Wine” at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Messina Hof wines are handcrafted at the winery, located in Bryan, Texas. Messina Hof Winery and Resort also boast on their 100 acre property the Vintage House Restaurant, origin of Vineyard Cuisine and a cookbook by that name, the Villa, which was voted “Most Romantic Bed and Breakfast in the USA” and the Wine Master’s Room Wine Bar, voted best wine by the glass in the Brazos Valley. Merrill Bonarrigo shared, “Messina Hof provides one-stop shopping, including everything from decorations and refreshments to music, photography, stylists, and personalized wine labels celebrating that special day. “ No matter what the occasion or where it is held, Messina Hof can create your own uniquely designed label on your choice of Messina Hof wines. Brides use private labeled wines for favors, centerpieces, wedding toasts, reception wines, and more. For more information, please visit www. messinahof.com. Call today 979-778-9463 ext 224 to begin creating your own unique memories that will last a lifetime.
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Escape to
Messina Hof Winery & Resort
Make Your Events Special
Vintage House & Wine Bar
200 Years of Award Winning Tradition ~ Voted Best Winery in Texas ~
The Villa Bed & Breakfast
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Rehearsal dinners
FU N & FA B U LOUS
While it’s certainly not a necessity, the rehearsal dinner can be a great way to begin your wedding festivities, allowing everyone to get acquainted.
Start your future at Houston's only historic, luxury boutique hotel. The Lancaster Hotel’s ambiance and service will set the tone for that special day... - Intimate Weddings - Rehearsal Dinners - Out of Town Guests Testimonials: • You all did a really amazing job...You really made our family and friends feel at home, taken care of and a special thank you for treating my bride and myself to a suite which was amazing. (Wedding Guest/ Oct.2009) • Our stay was great - Your hotel was wonderful. I will certainly stay in the Lancaster again as well as recommend it to others! (Leisure Traveler/ Nov.2009) • I had a very pleasant stay. The room was lovely and the service was impeccable. (Leisure Traveler/ Dec.2009)
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The rehearsal dinner is traditionally hosted by the groom’s parents, who should invite the immediate family of the bride and groom, the clergy-person and his or her spouse or special guest and the complete wedding party and their spouses or guests. If there are friends from out of town who have already arrived, they should also be invited to join the party. Since this will probably be the first time many of your guests will meet, it can be helpful to include place cards. “Betty’s Aunt Milly,” or “Maid of Honor, Barbara Jones,” can help break the ice. Plan your seating so that your guests will enjoy the company of those with whom they are seated while also meeting new people. The bridal couple and their immediate families generally sit together at the front or focal table. The wedding party can be seated with the bridal couple and their families, or seated amongst your other family members and special guests. The rehearsal dinner is traditionally the time for the groom’s father to make his formal toast to the couple. It’s also an excellent time for the couple to give their attendants their gifts, especially gifts that are during the wedding ceremony. The rehearsal dinner is a joyous, relaxed time for friends and families to meet, get to know one another and enjoy each other’s company. So whether it’s simple or elaborate, it’s a lovely gesture and makes a great beginning.
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BANQUET & REHEARSAL DINNER G U I D E G R E A T E R
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MEMORY L ANE EVENT CENTER 403 KC Memor y Ln. Dripping Springs, T X 78620 512.894.0700 w w w.memor ylaneweddings.com Memory Lane Event Center in Dripping Springs, Texas is a hilltop setting on 18 acres surrounded by 100-year-old oak trees and built with beautiful rustic cedar and stone. A destination located amongst the rolling hills of Dripping Springs lies a unique setting that allows couples to express their individuality. Our 18 acres provides a peaceful, quiet atmosphere that includes accommodations for 20 people in our Texas Star suite, Hill Country View Suite and Memory Lane Lodge. Guests may also enjoy massages, private dinner and breakfast brunches upon request.
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A S H E LY N N M A N O R 25276 Nichols Sawmill Rd. Magnolia, T X 77355 281.252.3355 w w w.ashelynnmanor.com The main house is 6,200 square feet. It houses 3 bedrooms, great room, a formal dining room great for buf fet set up, an upstairs over flow area, a grand foyer, a beautiful bar, a sun kissed breakfast room, and so much more. Our charming “ Vintage” chapel will seat 270+ guests. The hand scraped mahogany wooden floors and beautiful bead board add a historic feel. The in-house sound system can accommodate any instrumentalist, vocalist or we can play our selections of ceremony music.
ASTIN MANSION 506 W 26th St. Br yan, T X 77803 979.822.9999 w w w.astinmansion.com Step back in histor y to the “Great Gatsby” Era to a time of elegance and formality. The Astin Mansion has been carefully restored to its original grandeur yet has a relaxed and easy ambience to make your events most enjoyable. It has beautiful stone columns, marble floor and mantels and a grand staircase with several working fireplaces. Choose the Astin Mansion to have the wedding of your dreams!
BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
BANQUET & REHEARSAL DINNER G U I D E BENJAMIN KNOX EVENT CENTER 405 University Dr. East College Station, T X 77840 979.696.5669 w w w.benjaminknox.com The Benjamin Knox Event Center is one of Br yan-College Station’s premier event facilities. Whether you are planning a banquet, rehearsal dinner, reception or bridal shower, the Benjamin Knox Event Center is an intimate and ar tistic set ting, per fect for our next event! Call Melissa today to hear about our special of fers.
BOGART’S CASA BL ANCA B E D & B R E A K FA S T ( Weddings & Events) 1302 E Washington Ave. Navasota, T X 77868 936.825.1969 w w w.bogar ts.org Bogar t’s is a full ser vice Bed & Breakfast facility with a total of t welve private luxurious rooms and baths. It is a t wo gated elegant mansion with extensive gardens, a wedding chapel and an outdoor kitchen. Weddings are our specialty!!!
B R A ZOS COT TO N E XC H A N G E Howell Building 200 S Main, Ste. 300 Br yan, T X 77803 979.575.4181 w w w.brazoscot tonexchange.com The Brazos Cot ton Exchange is per fect for your special event. The three sided picturesque views of historic downtown and the Br yan skyline, creates a beautiful atmosphere for your reception. It is approximate 3,000 square feet with gorgeous hardwood floors for dancing. There is ample parking in the adjacent city parking lot and the Exchange sits adjacent to the Historic LaSalle Hotel.
Cenare Italian Cuisine H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
C E N A R E I TA L I A N C U I S I N E 404 University Dr. East College Station, T X 77840 979.696.7311 w w w.gotocenare.com Cenare Italian Cuisine is family owned and operated. Whether you are looking for an intimate place to take that special someone or a place to host your special event, Cenare must be your first and best choice. Your guests will enjoy fine dining in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. We have a private dining room available that is per fect for your wedding rehearsal dinner. Come visit us soon!
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
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L A S B R I S A S FA R M 1108 Ross Prairie Church Rd. Fayet teville, T X 78940 979.378.1108 w w w.lasbrisasfarm.com Our outdoor, garden weddings of fer a sense of serenity so you and your guests can enjoy the making of life-lasting, special memories. Las Brisas Farm specializes in intimate, stress free weddings including elopements, Sunday weddings - a wonder ful destination for the most special occasion. Las Brisas Farm is centrally located and is approximately 1 hour from Houston, Katy, and Austin, 2 hours from San Antonio, and 30 minutes from Brenham. Come and check us out; the only thing we overlook is the view!
MESSINA HOF WINERY AND RESORT 4545 Old Reliance Rd. Br yan, T X 77808 979.778.9463 w w w.messinahof.com Messina Hof is a 100-acre estate which is home to the 42 acre vineyard all nestled in beautiful Br yan. Along with the winer y, our guests may spend the weekend at The Villa Bed & Breakfast which was named “The Most Romantic Bed & Breakfast in the USA”. Enjoy the truly delight ful “ fresh from the garden” cuisine at The Vintage House restaurant also known as “One of the three best restaurants in Texas” and be sure to visit the Winemaster’s Room wine bar to enjoy your favorite Messina Hof wine.
TEX AS A&M UNIVERSITY REC CENTER College Station, T X 77843 979.845.3076 w w w.recspor ts.tamu.edu Exquisite set tings. Stylish seating. Af fordable, classy venues and ser vice.
THE GREENBRANCH 9471 Steep Hollow Rd. Br yan, T X 77808 979.774.0825 w w w.thegreenbranch.net Nestled in a garden sanctuar y of water, mature oaks, and exotic animals. The Greenbranch captures nature’s beauty and romance for your outdoor wedding. The gazebo, with views of the water fall, bridge, and lake, is the set ting to say, “I Do”. Just steps away, the newly enclosed garden pavillion of fers an elegant venue for your reception. With its breathtaking views and spectacular sunsets, The Greenbranch provides an inspiring backfrop for an unforget table day!
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S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
BANQUET & REHEARSAL DINNER G U I D E AGAVE ROAD 1016 FM 1463 Katy, T X 77494 281.395.5070 w w w.agaveroad.net Agave Road is a magnificent private estate designed to transpor t you to another era; to a time and place when life was….just simpler. It sits on a 30 acre wildlife sanctuar y. The main building has 10,000 square feet under roof featuring hand-car ved doors and spectacular stonework with feel of “Old Mexico”. The facility is able to accommodate over 300 people at a seated dinner.
A S H E LY N N M A N O R 25276 Nichols Sawmill Rd. Magnolia, T X 77355 281.252.3355 w w w.ashelynnmanor.com The main house is 6,200 square feet. It houses 3 bedrooms, great room, a formal dining room great for buf fet set up, an upstairs over flow area, a grand foyer, a beautiful bar, a sun kissed breakfast room, and so much more. Our charming “ Vintage” chapel will seat 270+ guests. The hand scraped mahogany wooden floors and beautiful bead board add a historic feel. The in-house sound system can accommodate any instrumentalist, vocalist or we can play our selections of ceremony music.
BOGART’S CASA BL ANCA Bed & Breakfast ( Weddings & Events) 1302 E Washington Ave. Navasota, T X 77868 936.825.1969 w w w.bogar ts.org Bogar t’s is a full ser vice Bed & Breakfast facility with a total of t welve private luxurious rooms and baths. It is a t wo gated elegant mansion with extensive gardens, a wedding chapel and an outdoor kitchen. Weddings are our specialty!!!
B U T L E R ’ S CO U R T YA R D 122 Michigan Ave. League City, T X 77573 281.557.5551 w w w.butlerscour tyard.com Butler’s Cour tyard is a beautifully restored 1909 bank building that is per fect for weddings & receptions. It has an atmosphere and ambiance that are beyond compare. We do ever ything to make your special event carefree for you and your guests. Our knowledgeable and professional staf f will help you plan your event and manage ever y aspect of its production -- suppor t ser vices, enter tainment bookings and menu consultation.
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
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H I LTO N G A R D E N I N N ENERGY CORRIDOR 12445 Katy Fr wy Houston, T X 77079 281.531.0220 w w w.houstonenergycorridor.hgi.com Complete wedding packages of fering exceptional wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and bridal brunches for par ties of 50 to 180 at af fordable prices.
Accommodations H OTEL I CO N 220 Main Street Houston, Texas 77002 phone: 713.224.4266 fax: 713.223.3223 w w w.hotelicon.com
Reception
Houston’s gem, Four-Diamond Hotel ICON will dazzle you and your guests while creating the unexpected for rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, renewal of vows, celebrations and social soirees. Our team of specialists will transcend your vision as Hotel ICON provides the foundation and atmosphere for an experience to remember. Your family and friends will revel at the attentive service, luxurious accommodations and award-winning cuisine, which will leave them feeling as though they never left home. Leave the details to us; this is your special day!
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Premier Bride 5.5 x 8.5” 4-Color HoustonEnergyCo_TABD.indd Job 38463 12.23.09
22602 Hegar Rd. Hockley, T X 77447 713.888.0000 w w w.houstonoaks.com Houston Oaks has been the host to hundreds of Houston’s most prestigious events. We make weddings and banquets memorable. Houston Oaks provides not only a phenomenal location, but exceptional and personalized ser vice well above par. Complete with chandeliers, a 50 square foot dance floor and carpeted for comfor t. Our beautifully appointed glass-sided conser vator y is a versatile structure, designed to compliment your unique occasion and style.
I N T E RCO N T I N E N TA L H O U S TO N 2222 West Loop South Houston, T X 77027 713.850.2800 w w w.ichoustonintro.com Contemporar y elegance for any set ting whether for a relaxed cocktail reception or Black tie event, centrally located in the Galleria area
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S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
BANQUET & REHEARSAL DINNER G U I D E KEMAH GARDENS 1019 Lewis Dr. Kemah, T X 77565 281.334.0501 w w w.kemahgardens.com Kemah Gardens, “where relationships flourish”, in Kemah, Texas just 2 miles from Kemah’s famous boardwalk and 35 miles from Houston/ Galveston, is where you will find this 5,000 sq f t luxur y guesthouse built on 4.3 acres of beautiful gardens. The house can accommodate up to 48 people for a small intimate indoor wedding and up to 200 people for that gorgeous outdoor wedding you have been dreaming of.
PE TRO LEU M C LU B O F H O USTO N 800 Bell, 43rd floor Houston, T X 77002 713.659.1431 w w w.pcoh.com Surrounded by Houston’s Downtown Skyline, the Petroleum Club has a long histor y of providing an atmosphere of unsurpassed elegance and style. With world-class chefs, tempting cuisine and at tentive ser vice, the Club sets the tone for the wedding of your dreams!
ROOF GARDEN 2214 Strand Galveston, T X 77550 409.762.5921 w w w.roofgardengalveston.com Roof Garden is a unique facility custom-tailored for celebrating wedding receptions. It is located in the hear t of the strand, overlooking Galveston’s Historic National Landmark District, “Once the Wall Street of the South”. Roof Garden captures the intimacy and charm that a standard ballroom simply cannot of fer.
ROYA L OA K S CO U N T RY C LU B 2910 Royal Oaks Club Dr. Houston, T X 77082 281.899.3200 w w w.royaloakscc.com Our glistening water falls, fabulous golf course views, Tuscan inspired architecture and decor provide an exclusive and luxurious set ting for both intimate or large weddings and receptions. With custom menus prepared to uncompromising standards ever y event at Royal Oaks is planned to per fection.
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
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SA N LU I S R ESORT & SPA
THE SAN LUISResort SPA & CONFERENCE CENTER
5222 Seawall Blvd. Galveston, T X 77551 800.445.0090 409.740.8607 w w w.sanluisresor t.com The San Luis Resort is Galveston Island’s premier wedding destination offering 30 acres of seaside luxury with award-winning accommodations and amenities. The resort features several venue facilities including the elegantly designed Grand Ballroom to the Mainsail Salon for more intimate receptions. Fresh air ceremonies are available in our Gulf-view Gazebo creating a magical backdrop for your lifetime commitment. For your wedding day elegance, Spa San Luis offers professional make-up artistry and coiffures.
SUGAR CREEK COUNTRY CLUB 420 Sugar Creek Blvd. Sugar Land, T X 77478 281.494.9131 X 122 w w w.sugarcreekcctexas.com Nestled in the hear t of Sugar Land is the prestigious Sugar Creek Countr y Club. It is a traditional, plantation-style countr y club with grand white pillars, vaulted ceilings with cr ystal chandeliers and spectacular views of the golf course through floor to ceiling windows.
TA D A K E R S 218 Clear Creek Ave. League City, T X 77573 281.338.9090 w w w.tadakers.com TAD AKERS is a full ser vice venue. We will provide professional consultations, catering menu selections and enter tainment bookings. TAD AKERS exemplifies the newest trend of old world elegance combined with exquisite ser vice in a private venue. Weddings, Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners, Celebrations, School Banquets, Corporate Meetings, Reunions and Showers can be accommodated at TAD AKERS Event Facility.
THE ADMIRAL ON CLEAR LAKE 3101 NASA Pkwy, Ste. 210 Seabrook, T X 77586 832.864.4002 w w w.theadmiralonclearlake.com
Our Elegant Ballroom . . . The Perfect Backdrop For Your Wedding Or Special Event
At Endeavour Marina’s banquet facility, you have the option of a special Clear Lake sunset to add to an already special day. Our flexible space and beautiful waterside location can host up to 300 people. The facility can accommodate a ceremony only steps from the reception. Some of our facilities’ highlights floor-to-ceiling windows, private water front patios on both floors, a full kitchen facility for catering, and ample parking.
Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions Corporate Events Training Seminars Club Meetings Special Events
• Can Accommodate 300 • Catered Packages Available Upon Request BR YABalcony N - COverlooking O L LEG E Lake STAT I O N • Private Clear
w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
BANQUET & REHEARSAL DINNER G U I D E TH E H OUSTO N C LU B 811 Rusk St. Houston, T X 77002 713.229.2214 w w w.houstonclub.org
T he H o u s ton C l u b
Founded in 1894, the HOUSTON Club is located in the hear t of downtown Houston. The club of fers beauty, style and elegance for your special occasion!
TH E L A N C A STER H OTEL
E x p e r i e n c e T r a d i t i on . E x p e r i e n c e t h e e l e g a n c e of t h e pa s t. Located in the heart of downtown, the Houston Club is the perfect location for Rehearsal Dinners & flawless Receptions for 50 to 600. Our professional staff, renowned cuisine & traditional service will create unforgettable wedding memories.
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701 Texas Ave. Houston, T X 77002 713.237.2736 w w w.thelancaster.com The Lancaster is Houston’s premier Historic Boutique Hotel. A perfect location for smaller intimate weddings receptions, rehearsal dinners or just a home away from home for out of town guests. Personal attention to detail and valet parking ensures your special day will not only meet but exceed your expectations. The lobby’s magnificent sweeping staircase is picture perfect for a dramatic wedding entrance. The intimate, elegant setting of our hotel exudes a warmth and coziness befitting of your special day.
TH E PL A Z A D OW NTOW N Start your future at Houston's only historic, luxury boutique hotel. The Lancaster Hotel’s ambiance and service will set the tone for that special day... - Intimate Weddings - Rehearsal Dinners - Out of Town Guests
300 Milam St. Houston, T X 77002 713.228.1300 w w w.theplazadt.com The Plaza Downtown prides itself in saying that it has the ability to cater to ever y need. Whether it is a corporate af fair or the joining of t wo hear ts in holy matrimony, the facility is able to gracefully adjust to the requests of the client and leave them extremely satisfied.
Testimonials: • You all did a really amazing job...You really made our family and friends feel at home, taken care of and a special thank you for treating my bride and myself to a suite which was amazing. (Wedding Guest/ Oct.2009) • Our stay was great - Your hotel was wonderful. I will certainly stay in the Lancaster again as well as recommend it to others! (Leisure Traveler/ Nov.2009) • I had a very pleasant stay. The room was lovely and the service was impeccable. (Leisure Traveler/ Dec.2009)
Contact: The Lancaster Sales @ 713-237-2768 or info@thelancaster.com
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
V I L L A R I N ATA 2840 Chimney Rock Houston, T X 77056 713.334.7765 w w w.villarinata.com Villa Rinata is an elegant Mediterranean Villa nestled in the hear t of the Galleria area. Built in Italian style architecture, this beautiful venue provides the per fect backdrop and location for your special event. Escape from the city and let us transpor t you to Old World Italy.
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
AUS T I N www.p remierb rid e.com/a us tin
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T H E V I N E YA R D S AT W A V E R LY M A N O R 1961 FM 1375 East Huntsville, T X 77340 936.344.2227 w w w.thevineyardsof waverlymanor.com
MELONHEAD PHOTOGRAPHY
The Vineyards at Waverly Manor are hidden away on a 108 acre ranch in the sleepy little town of New Waverly. This 6,000 square foot plantation-style home is breathtakingly beautiful both inside and out. From the back porch, you look past the saltwater pool to see the charming gazebo. The beautiful 16’ gazebo sits just on the edge of a lake with a fountain. Our banquet hall can accommodate over 350 guests. The 5,000 square foot ballroom is ideal for your reception. Waverly Manor provides catering services for any size event.
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WAT E RWAY M A N O R Tiki Island, T X 77554 614.470.2484 614.477.1092 Visit our beautiful, private and secluded Bed & Breakfast on Tiki Island. It features luxur y bridal quar ters, guests’ accommodations, dynamic groom’s quar ters and a penthouse bridal suite. It is the per fect place for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners.
WESTIN GALLERIA
Private & Secluded
5060 W. Alabama Houston, T X 77056 713.960.8100 w w w.westin.com/galleria
All you need to do is say “I do”, when you host your celebration at the Westin Galleria Houston and The Westin Oaks Houston. With five unique ballrooms bet ween our t wo hotels, we are ready to make your dreams come true. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering for 50 or an a l l i nC lusiv e paCkag e s selaborate We e p i n g reception for 1,000 let us help plan your special day.
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5011 Westheimer Rd. Houston, T X 77056 713.960.8100 w w w.westin.com/oaks
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ballrooms bet ween our t wo hotels, we are ready to make your dreams come true. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering for 50 or an elaborate reception for 1,000 let us help plan your special day.
BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
Music makes a party!
Nothing gets the guests energized like great music. Hire the best band or DJ you can afford. Book the music that makes people want to dance.
artistgroup.net
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
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Music
THE SOUND OF ROMANCE On your wedding day, nothing sets the mood, stirs the emotions or touches the heart more than music. From the solemn, beautiful sounds of the ceremony, to the background melodies of the cocktail hour, to the lively dance tunes that energize the reception, music brings the romance to your day.4
CEREMONY MUSIC The very first step in determining the music for your ceremony is to consider what you want, or what you envision, for your day. Do you want a vocalist? Do you want several musicians there, or just a pianist? It’s helpful to take notice during any weddings you attend while engaged, of what you liked (or didn’t care for) when it came to the ceremony music. Once you and your fiancé have some ideas in mind, seek out wedding musicians by visiting bridal shows, reviewing local bridal publications or online sources such as premierbride.com, or asking for referrals from your ceremony officiant or recently married friends. Or, consider working with a talent/booking agency, which can offer experienced, convenient, one-stop-shopping for all of your wedding music needs. Once you’ve found some options, arrange meetings to hear them play in person – if you haven’t heard them live already. Once you’ve determined your ceremony musicians, they can help you select the songs to include in your wedding ceremony – how many, when, and so on. They are usually quite experienced when it comes to weddings, and BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
will be a great resource. (Your officiant will be helpful here as well, so be sure to involve them also.) If you have specific songs in mind already, you’ll be able to hear a preview of exactly what they will sound like on your wedding day. And if you need some ideas, your musicians will be able to guide you and offer plenty of options. COCKTAILS AND DINNER MUSIC The key element during cocktails and dinner is conversation, so the music playing during these times should set the mood, but not intrude. You have three options here: use the musicians that played during your ceremony, use the band or DJ that will be playing at your dance reception, or hire different musicians for this part of the day. If you do decide to have live music, chamber music, classical guitar or perhaps a jazz ensemble are all good choices, and can create a subtle background of entertainment without overpowering conversation. A well-seasoned pianist is another excellent choice, since he or she can supply a wide range of musical styles and perform your guest’s special requests. Or, if you are having a DJ for your dance reception, S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
MUSIC they can usually provide the cocktails/dinner music as well. RECEPTION MUSIC You’re married, cocktails and dinner are over, it’s time to kick up your heels and hit the dance floor! This truly is one of the most critical wedding decisions you’ll make, because nothing can make or break a wedding celebration faster than the entertainment. Fortunately, most wedding vendors are talented professionals, and with the tips included here, you’ll be able to confidently select an excellent entertainer for your big day. Your first big question to answer will be “do we want to have live music (a band or orchestra) or a DJ”? While there are pros and cons to both, it really boils down to personal taste and budget. Using live music - a band or orchestra - provides a certain festive energy to the evening, and is a wonderful option if your budget allows it. The key is to find a band that specifically does weddings, so that they can offer the versatility you need for a good event. Any live entertainment includes breaks, which can interrupt the flow of your evening, so try to come up with a solution that ensures that music is always playing. If the band is large enough, see if the band members can stagger their breaks so that someone is always playing. Or, hire a pianist or DJ to play during the breaks. Also, good, popular bands or orchestras will usually be more expensive than a DJ. They are well worth the expense, of course, since good entertainment is such a critical element of the wedding, but it just doesn’t fit everyone’s budget. And if you can’t afford a GOOD wedding band, then consider a DJ. A DJ can provide a huge variety of music, something for everyone, and is generally less costly than a live band or orchestra. And, no breaks! Here are some of the keys to finding a good wedding DJ: 1) If possible, see them live, in action.
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
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weddiNg deSTiNATioN, SerenecloSe To hoMe
Set amidst 25 acres of lush grounds, quaint arbors and picket fences, moss draped live oaks and roses, Ashelynn Manor provides a relaxed country setting with all the modern amenities and several options for your wedding: large or intimate. Exchange your vows in front of 275 guests in the new “Vintage� chapel with mahogany pews and light filled windows or in the romantic garden gazebo with horses in the distant pastures. The stately Manor luxuriously appointed with marble floors, grandiose columns, a picture perfect circular staircase topped with a sparkling chandelier and fabulous views is ideal for intimate gatherings. Host your reception in the carriage house, decorated in an elegant true country style. Our on-site planners will customize your event to perfection.
Ashelynn Manor
281.252.3355 | www.ashelynnmanor.com 25276 Nichols Sawmill | Magnolia, Texas 77355 BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
AUS T I N www.p remierb rid e.com/a us tin
MUSIC 2) Find a vendor that is a good fit with you, personality-wise. Looking for a fun, crazy, getjiggy-with-it party animal? Or a more upscale, elegant, formal entertainer? 3) Communication is critical. Clarify what songs and events you do and don’t want included, the order of events and other details ahead of time. 4) Ask for, and follow up on, several references. THE NITTY GRITTY DETAILS You’ll want to begin researching your reception musicians early in the planning process, so that when you find someone you like, availability is less likely to be a problem. Consider how they sound as well as their personality and style. Whether you hire a band, small orchestra or DJ, your selection of musicians will be a guaranteed success as long as you provide a wide variety of music. From 50s doo-wop to disco, pop or rock, diversity is the key so that every guest attending can hear something they enjoy. You will also want to consider your reception site when determining your entertainment. Communicate with both your reception site
manager, so that they are clear about your plans ahead of time, and with your band or DJ contact, so that they are familiar with the space, its limitations or requirements, and other details. If the band or DJ you’ve selected has never performed at your reception site before, ask if they can visit the location in person before your wedding to make sure it’s adequate for their needs: space, electrical power, lighting, etc. As with any wedding vendor, be sure that everything is very clear and in writing: the fees, cost and details on overtime, start and end times, alternate plans if a musician is sick that day, and so on. If any of your vendors don’t use a contract, then put all the details into a letter and copy it, sending one to the vendor and keep one in your files. Confirm all the details with your musicians about a week before the wedding. Once you’ve done your homework, selected excellent musicians for every part of your wedding, and nailed down all of the details, you can rest easy. Until, of course, it’s time to start working on your dance moves…
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Music
SELECTING MUSIC: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS A good band or versatile DJ will reach out to all ages and tastes, with showmanship and energy to keep the party in high gear. • What packages do you offer? What do they include? • May I see your references and a demo CD? • May I see you perform at an event or bridal show? • If I provide you with a list of songs, will you be able to play them? • Can we control the volume of the music? • How will you and other musicians be dressed? • How long do you play with how many breaks? • How long will you need to prepare or set up? • Will you be able to act as master of ceremonies? • When do you begin charging overtime? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
photo by: E. Sullivan Photography
EXPERIENCE TRADITION. EXPERIENCE THE ELEGANCE OF THE PAST. Located in the heart of downtown, The Houston Club is the perfect location for rehearsal dinners & flawless receptions for 50 to 600. Our professional staff, renowned cuisine & traditional service will create unforgettable wedding memories.
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H O USTO N . T X 77002
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713.229 . 2214
DALLAS
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W EDDIN GS @ HO USTO NCLUB . OR G
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W W W . H OUSTON CLUB . OR G
AUS T I N www.p remierb rid e.com/a us tin
Personalized vows
EMBR ACING THE UNIQUE
Depending on your religion you might decide to forget about tradition and create your own wedding vows for your big day. The sky is really the limit in this case and there is no better way to begin your life together than to take the time to really let one another know how you feel.
you are planning to spend your life together and how you will make this arrangement work for better or worse. Too many times nowadays couples don’t realize that marriage is supposed to be a lasting bond of togetherness through the good and the bad times.
If you do decide that you want to write your own vows meet with the officiant to discuss what you want to do. Certain vows must be kept in the ceremony in order for the wedding to be legal.
Another uncomfortable statement in the wedding vow is “until death do us part.” Many couples just don’t feel comfortable with that line anymore. How about something traditional, but less morbid like “as long as we both shall live.”
Think about what is truly important for you to express during the ceremony whether it be to each other, your family and friends or just your views on marriage overall. As time progresses many couples have begun to take offense to the wording in traditional wedding vows such as the word “obey.” If you are offended by this term create a new phrase that reflects who you are as a couple. Perhaps “love, respect and trust” fits into your life plan much better. When you do personalize your wedding vows think about those things that are really important to you such as the meaning of marriage, why
No matter how far astray you want your wedding vows to go it might be a good idea to start with the familiar. There is definitely something beautiful about the words in a wedding ceremony and perhaps just adding a few of your own personalized additions throughout the wedding is all that will be needed to add that special touch. Of course, you want to make sure that you and your fiancé are in agreement when it comes to changing the vows during the wedding. Talk about the things that make your life together unique and different and the plans you have for your future. One really
Officiant
SELECTING AN OFFICIANT: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS • Will you perform the ceremony at a non-religious site, such as a hotel or club ballroom? • Can we write our own vows, select music and readings or is there a standard format? • Will premarital counseling be required, and if so, what will that entail? • If we have been previously married or belong to different faiths, will you marry us? • If it is an interfaith marriage, will both officiants participate together? • Are there any special rules or restrictions for the ceremony? • Is there a ceremony fee? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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PERSONALIZED VOWS special way to say “I love you” is to remember why you fell in love in the first place. Often during the hassles of the wedding this is easy to forget. Perhaps bringing it all back together in front of your family and friends will make a bond that will never be broken. Talk about the experiences you have shared together while making memories. These are often very important moments frozen in time and will also help to build your future as you look ahead at what makes your marriage so important to both of you. What do you want for your future? This will be a good start as to what you want to promise each other as you stand before God and man becoming man and wife. Another fun thing to do might be have you and your fiancé write your vows apart and then come together to read them before you decide exactly what you will read during the ceremony. This will be a good way to discover any hidden feelings and you might be surprised at how identical your feelings really are, this is the mark of a great love. If you and your fiancé have an eclectic style or personality then by all means let that come out in your personalized vows. In the long run in might make it easier for you to express your real feelings anyway.
Poems can be quite popular for the wedding vows, however let’s face it not everyone is a poet. If you must write a poem and are sure you don’t want to steal from one of the great masters then sit down and decide on a theme. Obviously the theme will have to do with love and your life together, but go deeper and take it a step further. Try not to use the same tired themes that have been overdone in the past. Think about who you are and your style as well, if you aren’t one for sentimental gushing then perhaps a happy poem about your life together will work much better. Should you decide to honor your parents at the wedding this can be incorporated by a poem either written by both of you or a tried and true one that has been used for years. In addition to the vows other ways to personalize what you have to say is through your actions. Using a cake top that is identical to the one your parents had is a nice touch as is walking down the aisle to the same song your mother used years ago. However you choose to make your vows special keep in mind that the wedding is really about you and your spouse and it is the only big day you will ever have like this in your life. This way, the true meaning of love really will shine through by your actions as well as your words.
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SELECTING A CEREMONY SITE: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS • Is your facility open to non-members? • Do you have any restrictions on times or days of the week? • Do you have any restrictions or limitations on lighting, cameras, audio or video equipment? • Do you have a dress code? • Are outside musicians permitted to perform? • Will any decorations be available through you? • Are there dressing rooms? • When could we have a rehearsal? • Is ample parking available? • Are there adequate restrooms? Are they easily accessible for elderly and handicapped guests? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Personalized vows
7 UNIQUE GUEST BOOK IDEAS
Why have a plain white guest book at your wedding, when you can do something unique and creative, a lasting keepsake of wedding memories? Here are seven great ideas, from the conservatively beautiful to the wacky unusual.
#1 – The Photo Guest Book. Assign a handy and extroverted friend to take instant Polaroids of each guest or couple, and insert them into a blank guest book with a glue stick or photo corners. Have the guests write a short message beside their photo. This is better suited to smaller weddings, because it’s more time-consuming per guest. Or, have the friend take them digitally, to be printed and added to the book later. #2 – Bring on the embellishments. Take a plain guest book, and adorn it with beads, lace, ribbons, sequins, photos, drawings, your wedding invite, collages of words from magazines or poetry, leaves, flowers or any other enhancements your creative, brilliant mind can envision. #3 – Handmade with love. Make your own guest book with handmade paper and an interesting binding (ribbon, aluminum screw posts, rivets, etc.) Check out your local paper stores for classes, materials and other help. #4 – A framed work of art. Take a great photo of you and your sweetie – perhaps your engagement photo, perhaps in black & white for a classic look – and frame it using a very wide, bright white mat. Have your guests sign the mat using fine-tip black markers. This is a beautiful and personal art piece to hang in your new home.
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#5 – A puzzling idea. Here’s a very unusual idea: a photo of you and your fiancé is adhered to a wood backing and created into a puzzle. Your guests sign the back of each puzzle piece with a fine tip black marker. Learn more and see photos at MGC Puzzles web site – www.mgcpuzzles.com. #6 – Serve it on a platter. Use a white ceramic platter and a special pen to create a unique guest book! Some are decorative only, others can be made food and dishwasher safe after firing it in your oven (30 minutes at 300 degrees.) Or, use a sterling silver platter and an engravable pen. #7 – A deep well of wishes. Invite your guests to write a brief message to you on pre-cut, small pieces of beautiful paper, and drop them into a “wishing well” – any decorative container: a glass vase, large bowl, bird cage, decorated box, etc. After the wedding, you can either store these good wishes in a memory box or special container, or use them in a scrapbook.
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PB TIPS BEING A GRACIOUS BRIDE The thank-you cards are more meaningful than your invitation! Yes – by acknowledging guests with hand-written, personalized notes, you are saying that it mattered that they came to your wedding and/or sent a gift. Spend more time on this end of things and the time invested will return with gracious measure.
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Mood lighting
FROM ROM A NTIC TO D R A M ATIC
Lighting is the most underrated part of planning a wedding today. Nothing sets the mood like a sparkling runway for your reception entrance, a dramatic backdrop to the cake and other focal points or a sensual blaze that falls on your first dance. Details like bridesmaids’ shoes will go unnoticed, but the glow of your event will set the tone your guests will remember for years to come. Take this into consideration as you decide how to illuminate your wedding.
First, decide on the mood you want to convey at different points throughout your day. If your ceremony is at a charming church and your reception at an upscale venue, the lighting is going to be quite different. Even during the reception, there are different moments you’ll want lit differently. Perhaps you’d like a party-ready flashbulb entrance, or maybe something quieter and romantic like a twinkle-lit archway. Do you want sensual, candle-lit tables, or something more bold and dramatic during dinner like a crystaldraped chandelier? Consider the mood you
PB TIPS PREPARE YOUR ATTENDANTS Your maid or matron of honor and best man are in positions of esteem, but don’t assume that they know what is expected of their roles. Plan to have tactful conversations about the duties you expect them to perform and make it fun and meaningful. Find articles that cover this information rather than verbal instructions.
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want, then work with a professional who will focus on practicalities such as making lighting affordable, photo-friendly, safe, easily-controlled and customized. One popular new way to customize is emblazoning monogrammed spotlights on the wall or head tablecloth. Monograms can be as bold or subtle as you like, and look best when there is a sharp contrast, such as a dramatic cobalt blue against a dark wall. In a venue with drab walls, utilize backdrops to transform the room. Drape mesh overlay that’s in your color scheme from the ceiling to the floor as if it were a tent, then use twinkle lights, striking spotlights, crystals or whimsical orbs to illuminate the backdrop and bring personality to the room. If your venue doesn’t give you that much freedom with lighting, work with an expert to create a beautifully lit focal point you can add to the room. It could be spotlights on a stunning cake, a flirty archway entrance or dance floor cover or an eye-catching tree dazzled with crystals or small candles. Candles are the most time-tested and romantic form of light. Use them with care. First, make sure they’re in fire-proof and child-friendly places. Then, the secret to candles is irregularity. Arrange different sizes and shapes along mismatched levels to add mystery and make the enlightened objects dance. Whatever lighting you decide on, don’t underestimate the importance of the rays. They’ll be the backdrop of the pictures and memories you and your guests will remember as your perfect day.
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Accommodations
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Child attendants
8 TIPS TO USING KIDS IN YOUR CEREMONY
Children can be a wonderful part of a wedding ceremony, full of joy and spirit. It does take a little extra thought, planning and accommodation, however, to include them successfully. We’ve compiled a list of helpful tips and things to consider, to make your wedding celebration a kid-friendly event!
#1 – Consider their ages. Young children are adorable, to be sure, but their behavior is unpredictable (to be sure), so if you do include them, be prepared for the unexpected. Imagine a three-year-old tugging on your dress during the heart of your wedding ceremony and asking in a loud, clear voice “are we done yet?” Does this fill you with dread, or make you warm and fuzzy? Do what feels most comfortable to you, taking into consideration your personalities, your families and your wedding style.
#5 – A special gift. Consider making or purchasing a special gift for them, to honor their participation. This will also help them remember this special event and their involvement. Gifts will vary widely by age; some ideas are in the article below. #6 – Keep parents close. For younger children, keep parents seated up front. It’s ideal if young children can walk down the aisle with someone (a parent, bridesmaid or groomsman), and then sit down immediately with their parents in front. It’s way too much to expect a young child to stand quietly up front during the whole ceremony!
#2 – Ask in person. For older children, ask them in person to be a part of your wedding (after running it by their parents first.) This makes them feel involved, important and honored.
#7 – Oh goody, goody bags. Goody bags at the reception (or even during the ceremony, if they’re filled with non-messy, quiet items) for kids are a great way to keep them entertained for awhile. Babysitters, special kids’ meals, art supplies on a table in the corner, and videos playing in a corner or adjoining room – these are all good ideas if children will be participating in your Big Day.
#3 – Spend time with them. Try to include them in pre-wedding events and activities, and just generally spending time with them before the wedding so that they feel connected and involved. Again, this is more important for older children, and is certainly dependent on their age, interest and hometown (whether they live near you or not.) The point here is simply to make sure they don’t just feel like a ‘prop’ in the wedding, but instead, a valued and important participant in this honored event.
#8 – Need a nap? For young children, be sure to take their nap and bed times into consideration! Tired children are impossible, trust me on that. . . If your rehearsal or wedding will take place after their bedtime, or during their nap time, you may want to reconsider the extent of their involvement. Perhaps instead of walking down the aisle as a flower girl, they could dress up in a special outfit, and be carried by Mom or Dad, with a trusted babysitter nearby ready to take them home when necessary.
#4 – Rehearse! Be sure to include them in the rehearsal, so they feel more comfortable with what is going to happen, how and when. Even young kids will benefit, by making everything feel more comfortable and familiar. BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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Don’t Limit Your Bouquets. Use your imagination and consider adding small branches of wild flowers that add bits of color and a touch of simpleness.
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Flowers
B R I D A L B L O O M S : D E S I G N A B E A U T I F U L W E D D I N G W I T H F L O W E R S When selecting flowers for your wedding, you will find there is an endless array of options. The romantic link between weddings and flowers dates back to ancient civilizations where garlands of flowers, leaves and vines were worn or carried by young brides to symbolize their beauty and innocence. Wedding flowers have since evolved from simple hand-held bouquets to vibrantly artistic creations used to set the mood and theme for the entire celebration.4
Deciding on flower arrangements may take considerable time and imagination on your part. Guidance and suggestions from your florist will smooth the process for you, so it is recommended to book your florist a year in advance if possible. Try to make a final selection for all your bouquets, boutonnieres, ceremony arrangements and reception centerpieces at least three months before the wedding, then meet with the florist again three weeks before your wedding date to iron out all the details. When meeting with floral designers, it is a good idea to bring fabric swatches of your gown and the bridesmaid’s dresses. It also helps to bring photographs or illustrations of specific flowers, colors and bouquet styles you prefer. If you are unsure which flowers will last and also look the best, ask your floral designer. Since you will want your floral arrangements to last throughout the day, your floral designer’s advice will be invaluable. Some flowers hold up beautifully in the sun while others are better suited for indoors. For example, it probably would not be wise to select gardenias if you BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
are planning an outdoor wedding at midday in June. Gardenias are as delicate as they are beautiful, and under such conditions they would wilt long before the minister says, “you may kiss the bride.” For You and Your Wedding Party The first item of consideration will be the bridal bouquet, since all other floral arrangements will take their cue from this piece. It not only sets the tone for the overall floral scheme, but also provides the perfect opportunity for you to bring your own style and personality to the forefront. The Ceremony Before making decisions regarding the floral arrangements for your ceremony be sure and check with your chosen church or synagogue for any restrictions. If you’re on a budget, it’s useful to reuse ceremony flowers at the reception site, but some churches request that altar arrangements remain on-site for weekend services. You will want to determine what you can and cannot take with you after the ceremony before you order the reception flowers. Ceremony arrangements are usually ideal for buffet, gift and head tables if using them twice is an option. S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
FLOWERS Reception Arrangements There is a vast array of options for reception centerpieces: elegant vases filled with cut flowers; towering candelabras; topiaries; or simple rose petals scattered around flickering candles. Use your imagination to design one-of-a-kind centerpieces that express your style. Keep in mind that the height of the arrangements should not interfere with the ability of guests to converse with each other. They should either be low enough to talk over or high enough to talk under. Placing the wedding party’s bouquets at equal intervals at the head table also provides excellent decoration. Running greenery laced with flowers across the length of the head table is another option. You might consider using this decoration for the cake table as well. If your budget allows, consider adding a few finishing touches here and there, such as flower petals on serving trays, or garlands along the front of the buffet tables. You can also fill in a large room with potted ferns or ficus trees placed strategically and wrapped with strands of small white lights. Share all of your ideas with your floral designer, who can help you refine them to create a lavish and memorable impression that won’t soon be forgotten by you or your guests. SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS For everything there is a season and flowers are no exception. One of the most important considerations in selecting your wedding day flowers will be the season in which you intend to wed. You will find that flowers in bloom during the month of your wedding will be more available and less costly than selections that are out of season and they will also last longer. A major seasonal consideration is the holidays since certain flora will significantly increase in price. Valentine’s Day, as you can imagine, creates a high demand for red roses, increasing the cost considerably. Easter affects the availability and price of tulips and hyacinths, while at Christmas poinsettias and holly are at a premium. Should you choose these flowers around such seasons, factor this into your budget. H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Here are some popular flowers and the best season to choose them in order to help you create beautiful bouquets and arrangements for your wedding. Winter. Amaryllis, Casablanca lily, freesia, Gerber daisy, heather, holly (ilex), narcissus, poinsettia, rose, stephanotis. Summer. Anemone, azalea, calla lily, camellia, daffodil, French tulip, hyacinth, hydrangea, jasmine, lilac, lily of the valley, mimosa, pansy, peony, primrose, ranunculus, sweet pea, tulip, violet. Fall. Celosia (cockscomb) Chinese lantern, chrysanthemum, crosnia, dahlia, statice, yarrow (in California, most summer flowers are also available in the fall.) Year-Round. Baby’s breath, carnation, cattleman, chrysanthemum, cymbidium orchid, daisy, dendroblum orchid, freesia, gardenia, Gerber daisy, gladiolus, iris, lilies, protea, roses, September aster, snapdragon, stephanotis, tuberoses. Traditional bouquets of all white can express a bride’s individuality with elegance and simplicity. You may combine a range of blossoms that are unique in shape and size for dramatic impact, or compose a delicate bouquet of one type of flower. White flower selections may include calla lilies, catalpa orchids, daisies, delphiniums, freesia, gardenias, hydrangeas, lilacs, lilies, lilies of the valley, orchids, roses, stephanotis and tulips. Most of these flowers are true white; however, like roses, some display a hint of pink or yellow. If your heart is set on color, don’t hesitate to indulge. Colored blossoms are definitely “in” for bridal bouquets, as well as other ceremony and reception arrangements. From exotic tropical stems to gorgeous, scented garden herbs, the selections and combinations are virtually endless. With their fragrant beauty, their wide range of hues and year-round availability, it is easy to see why roses have retained their popularity with brides. If you are considering roses, it helps to know a little bit about them before making your final decisions.
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FLOWERS Roses are produced in three grades: Select, Extra Fancy and Fancy. Select roses are top quality and last the longest. It may be worth paying more for Select, although Extra Fancy is equally lovely. Florists rarely deal with Fancy roses, found mostly in supermarkets, as they tend to wilt rapidly. 6 NEW FLORAL TRENDS #1 – Bold, creative color Make a statement with vivid, dramatic color in your wedding flowers - royal blue-purple, dark lilac, burnt orange or bright yellow-green. Focus on just one color and include a variety of shades and textures, or consider unusual, striking color combinations, such as mint green with cherry red, or deep purples with vibrant shades of orange. #2 – For chocolate lovers Warm chocolate brown is a beautiful color for weddings, and you CAN include it in your bouquets and centerpieces. Use brown Leonidas roses, terracotta roses, chocolate cosmos or hypericum berries. Or, use a flower in another wedding color (pale blush pink) with a brown center, such as mini Gerbera daisies. #3 – Wrap it up For your centerpieces and bouquet stems, there’s no limit to the ways you can creatively envelope them: velvet or metallic ribbon, tree
bark, rustic burlap or twine, glittery wire, satin, silk or other fabric, banana leaves or anything else you can think of! #4 – Black, white and red all over With your white dress and the black tuxes, any and all shades of red are the perfect accompaniment. There’s always the classic red rose, but other beautiful, trendsetting red flowers are dahlias, tulips, Gerbera daisies, Calla lilies, red freesia and berries. A bouquet with a variety of reds from pale pink to deep red would be unique and gorgeous. A skilled floral designer will be able to put the right shades together. #5 – Variety is the spice of life Really, there’s no rule that says all bridesmaids’ bouquets or all centerpieces have to be identical. Mix it up! While they should all look like they belong to the same wedding, there’s no reason you can’t alter the arrangements to create an interesting mix of floral design. #6 – Add a little sparkle Think outside the box, or in this case, the bride, when it comes to jewelry and let your bouquets wear some too! Add a little sparkle to the center of your Calla lilies, some beaded wire around your bouquet stems, or a family heirloom, such as pearls, that you prefer not to wear, but would love to include, to your bridal bouquet.
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SELECTING FLOWERS: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS • What packages do you offer? What do they include? • How can we make the most of our floral budget? • Do you deliver the flowers? Is there a charge? • Do you provide any other kinds of decorating? • Do you rent or provide decorations and props? • Will you come to the ceremony and reception site to plan out the decor? • Do you set up at the ceremony and reception sites? • Can you move the flowers from the ceremony to reception? • Can you provide fresh flowers for the cake? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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turning
ORDINARY EvEnts into...
Proudly Serving Texas Brides for Over a Decade Largest Selection of Instock Inventory in Houston Amazing Collection of Standard & Custom Linens & Accessories Table Rental • Chair Covers • Equipment Rentals • Ceiling Treatments White, Black & Natural Wood Folding Chair Rental • Chiavari & Acrylic Chair Rental
Showroom location: 5226 Atascocita Road, Humble, TX 77346 (by appointment) Find us on facebook facebook.com/elegantbeginningsinc
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Well-Suited Groom
COMPLIMENTING THE BRIDE WITH THE
The bride, in her splendid gown, will turn heads as she walks down the aisle, but the groom, waiting patiently at the altar, deserves his share of the attention too. And he will look splendid also, dressed in the perfect outfit for the perfect day, and ready to celebrate. THE LEVEL OF FORMALITY The first order of business is to evaluate how formal your wedding will be. This depends on the time of day of the wedding, the location, but most of all, on you and your fiancé. Whatever level of formality you settle on, just be sure you’re consistent throughout – invitations, décor, food, location, and certainly, wedding attire should all “match” in terms of formality. (Most people do this instinctively!)
In warm weather, think lighter colors (such as tan and white), and in cool weather think darker colors (navy and charcoal.) Grey would likely work anytime, and black is always classic and appropriate. Ties, vests and cummerbunds can match the wedding colors, or compliment them with colors such as white, ivory, silver, grey or black. If the bridal gown is ivory, the men should wear ivory shirts, not white, to compliment her. Semiformal and formal weddings have plenty of options: a high quality, single- or doublebreasted men’s suit in black, dark charcoal or navy with a Windsor knotted tie in white, ivory, navy, silver or black is a less formal option. It’s also a suit you could wear over and over again, making it a good investment. For a more formal look than that, consider a tuxedo with a single- or double-breasted dinner jacket, a white or ivory pointed-collar shirt, a vest or cummerbund and either a bow tie or a four-in-hand tie (a “fancy” knotted necktie). A very formal wedding, called “white tie,” calls for the traditional black tuxedo with tails, a vest, a white winged-color shirt and a bow tie. If you can envision a symphony conductor’s attire, this is “white tie.” BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
DISTINGUISHING THE GROOM It’s nice to have some way of setting the groom apart. One way to distinguish the groom is to give him a different, but complimentary, boutonniere to wear. Another idea is for the groom to wear a white jacket while his groomsmen are in black. Or, the groom could wear a white, ivory or silver vest and/or tie while his groomsmen wear vests and/or ties in black, or a color that matches the bridesmaids’ dresses. SHOPPING TIPS When the men visit their formalwear shop they should have a firm idea of the women’s wedding attire, and bring fabric or color swatches from the bridesmaids’ gowns. Pictures from the pages of wedding and men’s magazines of the preferred formalwear styles would also be helpful in the decision-making process. The groom and groomsmen should reserve their rentals at least three months in advance of the wedding (although the earlier, the better, especially during the busy seasons.) Final measurements should be taken about three weeks before the ceremony; however, be sure to come back a few days before the wedding for last-minute alterations. Out-of-town groomsmen can get measured at any formalwear store or local tailor’s near them, and send their measurements to the groom or to your formalwear store. Someone (often the best man, as long as he’s responsible!) should be designated to return all formalwear to the store on time in order to avoid late fees, which can get quite expensive adding up the per day, per outfit costs. Finally, it’s critical to get a perfect fit – even the best outfit won’t look good if the fit isn’t right. Rely on the expertise of your formalwear consultant.
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Prepare to spend a little more. Remember that just because it’s a great price doesn’t mean it’s a great dress for you. And don’t forget to bring along a pad of paper and track styles, dress names and numbers.
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Gowns
6 E A S Y S T E P S T O T H E G O W N Y O U R D R E A M S
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Everyone knows they can’t try to upstage the bride on her wedding day, and that means one thing –you’ve got to make sure your dress is up for the challenge! Some ladies have dreamt of their gown since before they can remember, but for others finding the dress is a nightmare. Before you start looking here are some tips:4
HAVE A TRUSTING TEAM. Invite along friends or family who will be honest yet accommodating with you. If a dress is unflattering, you want them to speak up, but don’t invite someone who wants to control how you’ll look on your day – the ultimate decision is yours, and you shouldn’t feel guilty about that. KEEP AN OPEN MIND. It’s helpful to have an idea of what you want, but don’t be afraid to wiggle outside your comfort zone. You might be pleasantly surprised with the results and make a statement walking down the aisle! GET TREATED RIGHT. Make sure your service is top-notch. Your dress is one of the most important and memorable parts of one of the biggest days of your life, so you should be taken care of like a queen. You need to be able to trust a consultant to take care of every aspect of you dress-buying experience. Make sure they address how they’ll deal with alterations and other practical matters. Also, be mindful they’re not slacking but are truly showing you all your options while staying within your price range. Your happiness should be their top BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
priority. If you don’t feel comfortable, do NOT be afraid to ask for a different representative or go somewhere else. START BASIC. Do some basic research like online searches, or thinking of friend and family’s dresses you loved, and try to have an idea in your head of what you want so it’s easier to narrow you search. Even then, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with your options. If you don’t know where to start, bridal magazines and on-line sites can be a great resource. The process can seem daunting. A good starting point is styles of dresses you’ve loved on yourself in the past. When you see something you like there, create a file of your favorites. Bring them along when you visit more specialized wedding boutiques and review them with the consultant. As for styles, it’s an exciting time to shop for wedding gowns. Strapless dresses still reign supreme as the top pick among brides-tobe, but the market is constantly expanding. Trends like bold colors, asymmetrical hemlines, whimsical trims and dramatic backs are challenging conventional designs. It`s important S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
GOWNS to remember these trends don’t always mean a dress will be too edgy or something you’ll regret in five years. Designers want a gown to be a classic piece, possibly one you’ll pass down, so often a bold look is simply a modern take on a chic design, one you’ll still smile at in pictures years from now. Here are some of the latest and greatest from the wide world of bridal fashion: Color Traditional white gown will always have a place, but it’s no longer the only option. Romona Keveza has a flower-trimmed robin’s egg blue, Vera Wang embraced a soft blush for a layered gown and Oscar de la Renta showed green skirts and even a dramatic black with striking white butterfly accents. If you don’t want to transition totally away from white, try fading into color, like this Junko Yoshioka. The silky strapless gown starts in an off-white and gently swirls into an asymmetrical yellow train for a pastel spin on a timeless look. Or, go for a bold accent like this look from Anthropologie with a black bow and red shoes. A sash is another way to add color, perhaps the same color as your bridesmaids or flowers. Throw it on after the ceremony for a different reception look. Black and red are two popular colors for a bold yet classic accent.
The Perfect Gown Awaits... From Classic... To Fantastic! Bridal Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses Flowergirl Dresses Tuxedos Accessories and more...
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Legs! Short dresses have always been fun for a switch into a more casual reception dress, but they’re gaining popularity down the aisle, especially for summer or outdoor weddings. They show off your legs or a great shoe, and come as light-hearted or couture as you like. Project Runway’s Carol Hannah has some flirty, affordable frocks. No one will elegantly show off your curves more than Alfred Angelo’s ‘Little White Dress’ collection, while Oscar de la Renta has whipped up a more show-stopping number with full skirts ballooning out from a simple, strapless top. For tee-length, princess options, try a whimsical dress from Rosa Clara. www. pbdalas. com
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A new way to plan
Get deals. Get bids. Get going.
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GOWNS Strapless’s New Rival The one shoulder option is now second to strapless, which means the once edgy look now has classic and elegant options. A decorative bow, flower or design on the shoulder strap energizes the look, like this Jenny Packham dress. For a less dramatic design, try something like Imogen from Carolina Herrera’s 2011 bridal line, with a simple tulle cap sleeve that gently stems from an easily sloping neckline.Also popular is a folded, asymmetrical look, like Oscar de la Renta shows. (Asymmetrical hemlines are also very in!)
Cap sleeves are also popular, especially a thin or lacy detachable type for a different look between ceremony and reception. Also popular is a lace overlay to the neckline, an elegant way to show just enough skin. Claire Pettibone has lots to offer with both designs.
Cover Up Sleeves are back, but don’t worry – designers haven’t relapsed to the heavily padded shoulders and too-beaded sleeves of our mothers. Monique Lhuillier’s Addie is a perfect example of tight, sheer sleeves extending from a sleek v-neck to truly shape a slender arm on any body type. For an updated Grace Kelly look, intricate lace sleeves that don’t remind you of doilies are beautiful from designers like Kelima.
Back is the New Black After all, it’s a long way down the aisle, and throughout the ceremony and first dance that’s what your guests will see. Silky, knotted backs the Eslava or Enfasis from Rosa Clara eliven the gown and let a strong, beautiful back poke through.
Trims Trims as accents are becoming the perfect way to make a simple gown dazzle. Melissa Sweet, ReemAcra, RomonaKeveza and Anthropologie scattered ruffles, tiny butterflies or even feathers down the dress to add personality to a classic design.
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Gowns
SELECTING FLOWERS: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
Your wedding day attire will be the most memorable outfit you’ll ever own. Consider all your options – a designer gown from a full service bridal salon, a family heirloom needing some redesign, or a custom designed gown to reflect your personality? • Which designers do you carry? • Do you have the dress that I want on hand? • Do you offer accessories and shoes as well? Can you dye the shoes? • Do you offer pressing, alterations or bridal slips? • Can you guarantee a delivery date for my dress? • When can you offer fittings for my bridal party? Can measurements be handled over the phone? • Can you make last-minute alterations? • How far in advance must I order my gown? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Vintage Romance
Gown:
www.jlmcouture.com
Hair Accessory:
www.bridesveils.com
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Gown:
www.jlmcouture.com
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Gown:
www.rivini.com
GiGi of Mequon:
www.gigiofmequon.com Hair Accessory:
www.bridesveils.com
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Gown:
www.jlmcouture.com
Tuxedo:
www.harleys4men.com Headband:
www.louisegreen.com
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Gown:
www.enzoani.com
Hair Accessory:
www.bridesveils.com
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Gown:
www.jlmcouture.com
GiGi of Mequon:
www.gigiofmequon.com Tuxedo:
www.harleys4men.com Hair Accessory:
www.bridesveils.com
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Shot on location in Cedarburg, Wisconsin Photographer: The Artist Group www.artistgroup.net
Gown:
www. www.priscillaofboston.com
Zita Bridal:
www.zitabridal.com Tuxedo:
www.harleys4men.com
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Gown:
www.sotteroandmidgley.com
Hair Accessory:
www.janniebaltzer.com
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Gown:
www.suewong.com
Hair Accessory:
www.janniebaltzer.com H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Gown:
www.suewong.com
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Gown:
www.enzoani.com
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Gown:
www.maggiesottero.com
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Gown:
www.enzoani.com
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Gown:
www.enzoani.com
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Gown:
www.enzoani.com
Shot on location at:
The North Carolina Transportation Museum www.nctrans.org Photography:
Jim Merrill \ JMT Photography www.jmtfoto.com
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Perfect Accents
ACCES SOR IZE YOU R DAY WITH
Bridal accessories are fun and easy items to shop for and they add a bit of personality to any wedding. From shoes and jewelry to toasting glasses and cake servers, accessories are important details on your wedding day.
As you begin planning the major aspects of your wedding, keep an eye out for special or unique items that will reflect your own personal style, hobbies or passions. Though it may be tempting, avoid procrastinating on these seemingly simple purchases. Some selections may require special order, so be sure to allow several weeks for shipping. From Scratch If you’re creative and have the time, handmade accessories are a wonderful addition to any wedding. A hand-sewn ring bearer pillow that matches the flower girlís basket is a lovely touch. Craft shops and fabric stores carry the necessary supplies to fashion the perfect accessories or enhance store-bought items. Special Somethings Bridal accessories almost always fulfill the “something old, something new, something borrowed something blue” requirement. Carrying your grandmother’s bible or prayer book as you walk down the aisle would be your “something old.” Your “something new” is easy to achieve, taking into consideration your shoes, your gown
PB TIPS SPECIAL KEEPSAKE Polished stones carry special meaning. Find a local boutique that sells “love rocks,” and give one to each of your guests BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
or a lovely pair of pearl earrings that match your “something borrowed” pearl necklace. Handkerchiefs, garters or lingerie with accent colors usually provide the “something blue.” Accessory Checklist For the Bride - Garter - Handkerchief - Jewelry - Keepsake Bag - Shoes For the Party - Aisle Runner - Cake Knife - Cake Server - Cake Top - Cocktail Napkins (engraved with names and date) - Favors - Guest Book and Pen - Matches (engraved with names and date) - Toasting Glasses - Wedding Cameras (one for each table) - Wishing Bubbles Other Accessories - Attendant’s Gifts - Flower Girl Basket - Pew Bows - Ring Bearer Pillow - Unity Candle and Holder Many bridal salons carry limited selections of guest books, toasting glasses, cake knives and cake servers. For a more extensive selection of these items, visit a bridal store that specializes in bridal supplies and accessories. Should you receive a wedding accessory as a shower or pre-wedding gift, make sure that you use it in the wedding.
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Do a Test Run!
Make sure you test out beauty products several times to make absolute sure that you’re not allergic!
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Beauty
T H E D O ’ S A N D D O N ’ T S O F L O O K I N G Y O U R B E S T All eyes are upon you as you glide gracefully up the center aisle. Your handsome groom gazes at you with love and adoration. Everyone wants to take your picture. Once you combine your special sense of style with a few tricks of the beauty trade, you’ll look your absolute best. 4
Makeup, hair, nails… every blushing bride wants these to be in top form on the big day. We’ve done the research, reflected, and compiled our best tips to help you look completely fabulous for your wedding day! WHAT TO DO Now is a great time to focus on healthy, glowing skin. If you’re concerned about the health and appearance of your skin, then consider a visit to a dermatologist (for bigger problems) or an aesthetician (for minor issues.) Depending on the severity of your skin problems, start six to 12 months before your wedding day so you have time to treat, heal and achieve good results. After proper analysis and treatment, professionals can assist you in selecting skin care products that will enable you to maintain treatments in the privacy and convenience of your own home. Facials are a must for all skin types. Facial treatments use deep cleansing, masks and exfoliation to penetrate deep into the skin, killing blemish-causing bacteria, rebalancing the skin hormonal system and stimulating circulation. Regular treatment results in refined BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
pores, smoother facial lines, healed blemishes and a more radiant complexion. When choosing your hairstyle consider your gown, the level of formality of your wedding, your personal style, your hair and your face shape. Generally speaking, the more elaborate the gown, the simpler your hair should be, or it all simply becomes “too much of a good thing.” Strapless gowns show off their dramatic neckline with up-dos, but this isn’t a rule set in stone. Work with your hair stylist four to six weeks before the wedding to find the right style for you – and bring a photo of your gown with you! Whether you use a pro for your makeup, have a friend do it or do it yourself, do a trial run before the wedding. In addition to looking in the mirror and getting feedback from close friends and/ or family, take photos and evaluate those. Do you like what you see? Do you want to make any changes? Now is the time to practice – not the day of your wedding! Keep it on throughout the day and see how it lasts. How does it look two, five or eight hours later? It is easy enough to touch up?
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From pre-wedding skin care to formal hair styles and makeup application services for you and your entire wedding party, our Exquisite Reflections team offers a plethora of services that will enhance your already beautiful features for your special day.
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BEAUTY Regular manicures in the one or two months before your wedding day will get your nails in perfect shape. You can probably avoid using acrylic nails this way, and enjoy the beauty of your own strong, healthy nails.
these styles will glaringly stand out and look distractingly outdated. One bride who wore a dark trendy color on her nails said she cringes now every time she sees her wedding photos, and wishes she went with a classic, neutral color.
Have your eyebrows professionally shaped at least two weeks before the wedding. If you’ve never done this before, you’ll be amazed at how different you look with well groomed brows! Some people may experience a red, rash-like reaction, so doing this early enough gives you time to recover if that happens to you. You will probably need to freshen them up a day or two before the wedding with a tweezers.
If you’re considering any drastic hair changes, do it a couple months before the wedding. This way, if you don’t like it, you have plenty of time to make changes. If you do like it, just maintain it!
If you use a professional for your makeup, be sure to have the same colors available to take with you for touch-ups during the day. Do use waterproof mascara and eye makeup, just in case you shed a tear or two… And use primers underneath your foundation, lipstick and eye shadow, so that your makeup lasts longer. You want your makeup to last! To take care of the skin and make your whole body beautiful, try a body wrap and waxing. Body wraps detoxify and soften the skin using minerals or other natural substances to help to heal acne problems on the back and chest. Body wraps may include a full body massage to encourage circulation, toning and relaxation. Body waxing is one of smoothest and longest lasting forms of hair removal. Your legs will be smooth and free of razor stubble and, you can even try bikini waxing to get rid of hair on a longer-term basis.
Don’t go too light with your makeup, or you’ll look pale and washed out, especially in photos. Don’t go too dark, or it will be distracting and overpowering. Experiment and practice before the wedding to find the right balance. Avoid facials for two or three days before your wedding, in case it causes any kind of undesirable reaction. Don’t overdo the blush. You’ll be emotional, happy, nervous, busy and showing off your groovy moves on the dance floor… So there’s a good chance you’ll have some natural color of your own, and combined with too much blush you could look too red.
WHAT NOT TO DO Don’t alter your style too dramatically for your wedding day look. You want to look like yourself, your best self, and “polished” enough to honor the fact that this is a very special occasion.
OUR FINAL, AND BEST, ADVICE DO strongly consider using beauty professionals for your wedding day hair, makeup and nails. This is one simple way to shorten the list of wedding-day worries! A true makeup artist will know trade secrets not only for fashioning a longer-lasting look, but also for accentuating your features. They will also provide you with great information, advice and tips that will last a lifetime – a beauty investment. A great hair stylist can help you create a look that complements your facial features, headpiece and veil, and do it in a way designed to hold through the last dance. When you go pro, the end result is a relaxed, picture-perfect bride.
Avoid really trendy looks in makeup, nail color and hairstyle. 10 to 20 years from now,
Finally, don’t forget your most beautiful accessory: your radiant, love-filled smile.
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Looking Beautiful WITHOUT OVERLOOKING THE PROFESSIONALS
Every bride knows that their wedding day is one of the most treasured memories they will ever keep with most of those memories captured in photographs and/or video footage. So tell me, what bride doesn’t want to look glamorous for that eventful day? Exactly. That’s why Beauty Professionals care about brides looking their best for those special moments, so it’s best not to leave out your make-up artist and hairstylist.
bronze skin, careless to the harmful affects tanning beds can cause to the skin. Aside from the irritation and unwanted skin tones, it can also dehydrate the skin, which can result in a poor make-up application. By denying the skin to retain enough moisture, the make-up does not absorb to the skin properly. It then can leave the skin with an uneven dry texture that none of us want on such a treasured day.
Whether you are hiring a make-up artist, a hairstylist or a tanning specialist, always consult with them first. Get to know them and build a trust in those who will be working closely with you on your wedding day. Schedule a trial session prior to the wedding, so you know what to expect. Those unplanned surprises are the last thing a bride needs, especially when it comes looking beautiful.
A new, “skin friendly” approach to this practice is airbrush tanning. A tanning specialist performs this method with an airbrush device and a solution similar to airbrush make-up. Most airbrush tans can last up to five to twelve days depending on the tanning solution and how well you, as a bride, maintain it. With airbrush tanning, one session is usually all it takes to get that wonderful tan you desire.
One common misconception is facial waxing. Wax no sooner than four days of having make-up applied. Since waxing removes the top layer of the skin, the make-up cannot adhere properly. It would then have to be, what people refer to as, “Caked-On” which is never a good feeling. Certain skin types can be more sensitive than others, which may be more susceptible to redness or burning. Working with an experienced Esthetician can help you avoid those surprises. And always make sure the esthetician is a licensed professional with experience. A common misunderstanding with hair is keeping it unwashed on the same day you are to have it styled. This is not always true. Obviously, each person’s hair is different. So it is important for the bride to consult a professional hairstylist to advise them on how to properly manage their hair to get the style that can handle the stress caused throughout the wedding day. Another common mistake that can cause trouble is tanning. Some brides love to have that beautiful H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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And finally, when choosing your Make-Up Artist, Hairstylist, Esthetician or Tanning Specialist, ask for credentials. Are they licensed or certified, fulltime or part-time? Do they have testimonials, a portfolio or photo samples? Also, make sure to request a contract and read it thoroughly before signing on that dotted line. For the sake of looking your best for the entire wedding day, it is best to leave it to the professionals, so you can be a professional newlywed.
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PB TIPS GET A RADIANT GLOW To get a luminous radiant glow on your special day, try mixing a cream blush with a touch of bronzer.
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Do a dry run.
A good test for a photographer is the engagement photo. Is this person willing to work with you? Do you love the results? How’s the customer service? Don’t sign up until you’ve seen the results.
artistgroup.net
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Photography A
P I C T U R E
P E R F E C T
D A Y
It may be hard to imagine now, but after many months of hard work and detailed planning, your wedding day will suddenly arrive… and zooooom! The hours will fly by in a blur of beautiful, moving, memorable moments. And after the cake has been eaten, the dress has been carefully put away, and the gifts have been opened – you and your new spouse will be left with the most precious gift of all: memories of your special day. 4
There is simply no better way to capture and preserve these memories than with a collection of beautiful photographs that not only document the day and its events, but also embody the emotions and spirit of your wedding. Quite frankly, this is simply not a component of your wedding planning to treat lightly! Invest the time, attention and budget necessary to ensure that your wedding memories will be preserved for the future. WHAT’S YOUR STYLE? Start by determining which style of wedding photography is right for you and your fiancé. Here are brief descriptions of the three main styles: Formal or traditional This style produces color, posed portraits of you and your groom, your wedding party, and your families, along with all of the traditional wedding moments such as the cake cutting and bouquet/ garter toss. Photojournalistic This style is a popular trend in wedding photography, and it means your photographer will be shooting your wedding as if it’s a news BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
event, capturing hundreds of candid moments on film. These photographers tend to use more black & white film, for a classic, timeless and emotional effect. Artistic Artistic photographers use a variety of special effects to create a dramatic, one-of-a-kind piece of art. Effects could include double exposures, hand tinting, special borders and much more. Most photographers offer a blend of two or more styles, but tend to specialize in, and focus on, just one. If you like the photojournalistic style, but want some posed formal portraits to showcase your families or the day’s special moments, find a photographer that can comfortably do both. So which style is right for you? The first step is to think about the end product: what is most important to you, to have after your wedding? Do you definitely want to have beautiful, timeless, color portraits of you and your groom that you can elegantly frame and display? Do you want a large number of candid, heartfelt moments – many captured in black & white, to document your day? Are you envisioning a one-of-a-kind, S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
PHOTOGRAPHY artistic piece to hang on your wall after the wedding that incorporates one or more images from the big event? To help you, take a look at friends’ wedding albums, surf around professional photographer’s web sites, clip photos from magazines of photography that moves you, and spend some time in photographers’ booths at wedding shows. All of this research will help you zero in on what style of photography you seem drawn to, and ultimately, which one you want to use for your wedding. HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER Once you’ve established the style that is best for you, it’s time to find a professional photographer that meets your needs. Start the process by collecting referrals from friends, reviewing helpful resources like Premier Bride, attending bridal shows and surfing the Internet. Create a short list of potential photographers that specialize in the style you desire, based on their work and
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your budget, and set up an in-person or phone consultation with them. Your goal at this consultation is to evaluate three main areas: Do you like their work? Be sure to see complete wedding albums along with individual photos, to get the best idea of the end product you can expect to receive. Also, be very sure that you know exactly WHO will be shooting YOUR wedding – and view their work, as some larger studios have more than one photographer. Do your personalities mesh? Of all your wedding vendors, the photographer is the one vendor with whom you will spend a good deal of time on your wedding day. You want to feel comfortable with this person! Even if he or she is a great photographer, if your personalities just don’t ‘click’ – you may want to keep looking. Do they fit your budget? It’s so critical to have a budget amount in mind before looking for a
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PHOTOGRAPHY photographer, so that you can feel confident that the one you’ve decided on, and love, also meets your financial requirements. THE PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE As you’re selecting your photographer, it may help to be aware of the various elements generally included in wedding photography packages. Most photographers also offer these elements ‘a la carte,’ or can create a custom package that specifically meets your needs – so be sure to ask. Bride & Groom’s Album There are a wide variety of wedding albums available today, and they vary in size, color, material, construction and price. When comparing different photographers’ bride & groom albums, be sure you’re noting the quantity of photos and in what sizes, to make sure you’re comparing “apples to apples.” Parents’ albums The parents’ albums are smaller versions of the bride & groom album, and have traditionally included about twenty 5x7 photographs. Photos should be carefully selected for each family, to create two (or more) custom family albums.
Extra prints You will probably want to order extra photographs in addition to the main album and parents’ albums, for yourself or your parents to have some framed portraits at home, for members of the wedding party, and for other close friends and family members. Don’t underestimate how many prints you will want after the wedding, as this will definitely impact your budget. Proofs Ask your photographer how many proofs you will get, and in what format. They may be provided as small photos, in digital format, on the Internet, or on contact sheets. Engagement photograph This is a posed portrait of the newly engaged couple, which can be sent to newspapers with information announcing your engagement. You may also choose to put a framed engagement photo by the guest book at your reception.
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Photography
SELECTING A PHOTOGRAPHER: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
• Will you be taking the pictures? If not, can I meet them? • How long have you been a wedding photographer? • What packages do you offer? What do they include? • What type of photography do you specialize in? • Have you photographed at my ceremony or reception location before? • How many other weddings do you have this night? How long can you stay? • Do you offer online ordering for my guests? • When will proofs be ready? How long can we keep them? • Can we purchase negatives or order additional prints later? • What happens if you are sick or have an emergency on my wedding day? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Fun with photos
8 UNIQUE IDE A S TO H AV ING
Even though weddings are a testament of very personal love, sometimes the whole day can seem like a cookie-cutter type deal. But there’s almost nothing more personal than a photo, so use those to make your day one of a kind! Here are some suggestions on using images to express yourself in your wedding, from the fun and frivolous to the romantic and intimate.
Save-the-date cards and invitations can seem stuffy and predictable - so spice them up with a photo of you two! For the more informal save-the-date, you could pose as characters from your favorite movie or have side-by-side pictures of when you were younger. It makes a more interesting card and gets guests excited for your wedding. For a couple of your photos at the wedding or reception, add a little personality by wearing fun sunglasses, a hat from your favorite sports team, or a very trendy item that might look hideous (“we actually wore THAT!??”) when you look back on the photo 15 years from now. The idea is to incorporate your personalities, and have some fun! Surround your engagement photo with a large, smooth, white mat, and display it with nice pens at the reception for people to sign. You’ll have a personal touch around a beautiful photo of the day. Have guests bring a memory card of photos of the two of you, and ask someone to set them up with a photo frame at the reception. Embarrassing or un-flattering - let everyone see all the sides of your relationship! Especially at huge reception halls and banquet rooms, the place can seem large and impersonal. By adding pictures from your parents and grandparents weddings framed nicely throughout the room, the room will become a little more intimate. It’s also a nice way to honor deceased relatives or long-standing marriages. H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Many couples have a disposable camera or two at each table - let everyone from the flower girl to your great-grandpa snap a few and have them turn it in at the end of the night to see what everyone was up to! Here’s a fun, crowd-pleasing, party-enhancing idea: rent a photo booth to have at the reception! Your guests will have a great time entering the booth, posing for photos both lovely and silly, and enjoying the black & white or color prints. Put some scissors, gluesticks, pens and scrapbook pages on a table by the booth, for guests to leave one of their photos for you, along with a little note. Looking for a wedding gift for your fiancé? Give him a chic, “for his eyes only” boudoir style photograph of yourself that will capture the romance and affection that only you two share. Boudoir photographs are sensual in a posh, tasteful manner and it’s the photographer’s job to capture your personal and natural beauty in the best light. Many brides wear lingerie, their veil, a corset or whatever they feel most sexy in. Accentuate the posh ambiance with draping pearls, heels or rich makeup. Photos can be shot in a hotel room, bedroom or with a lush backdrop in the studio. Ask your photographer if it is part of the package, or find another one to capture an image of you that your husband will cherish forever.
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PB TIPS PHOTOS OF YOUR GUESTS Have a photographer who is willing to have a little set-up for somewhat formal pictures for your guests. (A small backdrop, stool, light, and camera stand should suffice.)
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Video tip.
Hire only a professional who answers your questions courteously and will be able to convey a non-intrusive approach with your wedding guests.
artistgroup.net
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Videography
PRESERVING YOUR IN LIVING, MOVING
DAY: COLOR
Nothing can transport you back to your special day like a good quality video. By beautifully capturing the moving sights and sounds, you can revisit your wedding again and again, and relive all of the special details: the rustle of your wedding gown, the nervous cough of the groom before his vows, the emotion in your father’s voice during his toast. But plan to spend the time and money necessary to do this right.4
A professional, high quality video is absolutely priceless. The wedding videography field has changed in recent years. The quality has improved dramatically and the final, edited work is more entertaining than ever. Professional videographers have the technology, talent and time necessary to produce an excellent quality video, with clear audio; crisp, in-focus visuals; and sharp editing. A good videographer will remain inconspicuous and capture wonderful, uninhibited moments of you and your guests. Often, you won’t even know you’re being recorded. Your video will have the tears of joy, the laughter, silly “blooper” shots and much more. Professional vidoegraphers will spend anywhere from four to 10 hours with you on your wedding day, and another 35 to 50 hours editing your wedding video, adding graphics and music, and other special effects. For all of the professional equipment, experience, and time you should expect to budget an amount similar to your photography budget. The one comment you will hear from brides and grooms after their wedding, is: “It went so FAST!” A BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
wedding video will transport you back to that special day with outstanding visuals and terrific audio, and even let you catch special moments you would never have seen otherwise. Ask your videographer about showing photo to video montages, rush editing of wedding day highlights, or “Love Story” videos at your reception. Or, create your own customized video display. Music is an important component of these videos. Discuss whether you or you videographer will handle the music. Projectors for these shows are recommended and may be available through the videographer. These upgradeable services are growing in popularity and would add the perfect final touch to your wedding and reception celebration. Your guests will be entertained by these touching and, sometimes, funny slow motion and still images. CHOOSING YOUR VIDEOGRAPHER Watch a videographer’s sample video closely to ensure that it meets your expectations for techniques and quality. Such a sample should allow you to appraise the clarity and stability of the picture and, above all, the videographer’s ability to smoothly edit the material together. This is one of the hallmarks of the experienced professional and an excellent reason to not leave this valuable service in the S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
VIDEOGRAPHY hands of an amateur. Another great feature of a professional video is improved audio. Knowledge of remote microphones and where to position them is key. Listen for clear quality sound during vows, readings, music, toasts, etc. Also, ask to see a copy of the videographer’s contract, and make certain you understand all the costs for the videographer’s work and what he or she will provide. The bottom line is, a professionally recorded and edited wedding video is a priceless treasure to have. There is truly no better way to revisit your special day. It will bring back not only the sights and sounds but…the feelings as well. HOW TO EVALUATE SAMPLE VIDEOS Ask to see the videographer’s wedding “demo” tape and a complete wedding video recently done. The demo tape will give you a great deal of insight into their style and quality, and a recent and complete sample of their work will give you a clear idea of what you’ll receive after your wedding. Evaluate the picture... • Is the picture clear and consistently in focus? Jumpy? Blurry? Shaky? • Are there any dead spots?
• Does it move smoothly from one scene to the next, or jump awkwardly? • How is the lighting? Evaluate the sound... • Can you hear the bride, groom, officiant and readers clearly? • Is the audio muffled or difficult to hear anywhere in the video? • Are the music selections and volume appropriate? • Is there too much ambient crowd noise? • Can you hear the toasts clearly at the reception? Evaluate the overall effect... • How long does the video last? • Does it keep you entertained? • Do you feel emotion? • Does it look professionally done? BUDGET TIP If your budget doesn’t allow for much now, invest in a good quality videographer and their barebones package, and you can always go back later to have extra elements added, such as a video montage or highlights tape. You’ll never be able to recreate your wedding day so make sure you get high quality footage to work with the first time.
Videography B
SELECTING A VIDEOGRAPHER: ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
• Will you be shooting my wedding? If not, can I meet them? • May I see samples of your work? • What packages do you offer? What do they include? • How many cameras and microphones will be used and where will they be located? • Are you able to work with the restrictions on lights and tripods at the ceremony or reception site? • How long will it take to get our completed video? • Can I keep the raw, unedited footage? • Can you film while a photographer is present? • Will backup equipment be on hand for the event? • How far in advance must I book your services? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required? If so, when and how much? H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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Going Green
P L A N N I N G A N E C O - F R I E N D LY W E D D I N G
Can you have a joy-filled wedding celebration and show your love for the planet, at the same time?
The locale - Choosing a location that’s close to where most of your guests live is an obvious, simple but effective way to limit unnecessary transportation, as is having the ceremony and reception in the same place. You may also wish to seek out sites that have made “going green” a priority, and are pro-active about reducing energy use and waste. Another green idea is to hold your ceremony in a location already dedicated to sustainability, such as parks, protected areas or museums. Finally, having an outdoor ceremony in a beautiful setting will remind you (and your guests) why you make environmentally responsible choices.
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The food - Serve local, organic, seasonal cuisine, and include a vegetarian or vegan option. Ask your caterer about locally raised, organic meats and wild caught fish versus farmed. Before the wedding, research places to donate any leftover food, such as homeless shelters or soup kitchens. The paper: Save trees by going high-tech: use a website to list directions, maps, accommodations and other details, and use email whenever possible. For the paper you do use, stick with 100% recycled and renewable cotton paper, and vegetable or soy inks, which use less energy to produce than petroleumbased inks.
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GOING GREEN The attire: Just say “NO!” to attire made in sweatshops and petroleum-based fabrics. Seek out wedding attire made with natural fabrics such as 100% silk or organically grown cotton, and hemp linen – which has come a long way since the gunny sack look. (For proof, visit the Hemp Weddings section of rawganique.com.) Another very green idea: recycle! Use your Mom’s wedding dress by investing a little time into alterations, or find a vintage dress in specialty stores or on eBay.
The Brazos Valley’s Wedding Video Experts
The gifts, favors, flowers: All those beautiful touches that make weddings special and unique can easily be turned green… and your first stop should be to idofoundation.org. Here you can include charitable donations on your gift registry, donate a percentage of gift registry sales to your favorite charity, and make a charitable donation in your guests’ honor in lieu of wedding favors. When it comes to your wedding flowers, find a floral designer that uses local, organically grown, seasonal flowers, and repurpose the ceremony flowers for the reception to make fewer flowers go farther. (This is also nice for your budget!) The day after the wedding, donate the floral arrangements to places such as nursing homes, hospice centers or hospitals, so others can enjoy nature’s beauty and all those gorgeous flowers don’t end up in the trash! The honeymoon: Certainly, staying close to home avoids those gas-guzzling airplanes, but if travel is in your future consider a “green hotel” – environmentally-friendly properties. Start the search by visiting www.greenhotels.com. Another idea: consider ecotourism – socially responsible travel that focuses on conserving the environment and improving the well being of local people. Visit www.ecotourism.org for more information. With just a little creativity, thought and research, your wedding can reflect the earthloving couple that you are!
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The key is timing.
Make sure to register BEFORE the first bridal celebration but not early enough that some of your items may become discontinued.
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Registry
THE NUTS & BOLTS OF GIFT REGISTRIES People love to buy gifts for a couple starting out their life together, to celebrate this fabulous occasion and express their joy. While some guests will come up with their own creative gift idea, most people really appreciate having a gift registry to go to for ideas, so they can get you something they know you’ll love. 4
If registering for gifts is on your current to-do list, then read on for all the nuts & bolts – so should we say cups & bowls – of gift registries. WHEN SHOULD WE START? Start four to six months before the wedding (or earlier!) so that you’re ready for any engagement parties, showers or eager guests. Don’t stress about getting it all done perfectly right away – you can always edit your selections or add more later. If there aren’t many items left about a month before the wedding, add more, so there’s enough selection left for the rest of your guests. Remember too that you don’t have to get this all done in one day! Take your time, and make your selections thoughtfully. If you start early enough, you can take a couple weeks to create your lists, hopefully enjoying the process as well. HOW DO WE REGISTER? Start out by considering your tastes and needs as a couple, and select up to three or four stores that feel right. Ideally, visit at least one store in person, so that you can see, touch and hold the different items, and make some of your selections. The rest of your gift registering you may wish to do online for convenience. BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
Registering at more than four places just adds more work to your plates, as you complete the lists, track them and manage the details. Besides, three or four at the most really should be plenty! Most full-service stores offer a great deal of free help, and you are encouraged to take advantage of this service. These specialists will be able to give you helpful information about what generally goes on a registry and help you remember pesky little things like meat thermometers that you wouldn’t normally think of. While it may be hard to imagine someone not being comfortable with purchasing gifts online or viewing your online registries, you will have guests at your wedding that want to buy their gifts in person, or aren’t comfortable with computers. So make sure that this option is available to them – ideally at a store that is popular nationwide. WHAT DO WE REGISTER FOR? Consider what you have already as a couple, and think about what you need as you start your life together. Most couples find that this S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
REGISTRY is an opportunity to get things they would never buy themselves, but would love having to grace their home and the future gatherings held there…timeless items such as crystal vases, formal china, serving dishes and linens. You may also want to think about any hobbies you have such as gourmet cooking, gardening or wood working, as well as any special desires such as honeymoon travel, saving for a house or donating to a meaningful cause. Work with your groom to discuss your plans, and make the decisions together. No matter where you choose to register, be sure to include gifts in all price ranges, so that your guests can choose gifts within their budgets. Also, select more gifts than guests (remembering that couples count as “one”) so that there’s enough selection available, and there are enough gifts to cover your wedding showers as well. Your guests will appreciate this! COMMUNICATING THE NEWS How do you let all the guests know where you are registered? The simple answer is, word of mouth. All guests will be close to someone in the wedding – the bride and groom, the parents, other family members or close friends. Guests will ask someone if they want to know where you’re registered! It’s certainly appropriate to include the information on your wedding web site if you have one. It’s also appropriate for the shower host(s) and/or hostess(es) to include the information on their shower invites as well. It is NOT, however, ever appropriate to include the information with your wedding invites. After all, your wedding invites are a gracious request to
join you on your special day – not a demand for gifts, so don’t let them sound like one! THANK YOU NOTES Your guests have been kind enough to send you a lovely gift, so be sure to behave like the kind, gracious couple that you are, and send that thank you note promptly! For gifts received before the wedding, send the note out within two weeks at the most. Trust us on this: you will not have “more time” after the wedding, and the more you stay on top of the thank you notes, the easier it will be. For gifts received at the wedding, send the thank you notes within four weeks, but certainly – the earlier, the better. Make sure your thank you notes are personal, handwritten and timely. AFTER THE WEDDING Most stores will keep your gift registry for at least a year after your wedding date, and they’ll often offer a discount to you for items still on your list. This is a great opportunity to see what items you still want and/or need, and perhaps use some of your wedding gift cards or gifts of cash to acquire these. The original purpose of bridal registries was to help new couples, who often were quite young and had very little, start off their new life together as a new family in a new home. No matter what your situation today, these gifts of love send you into your new life together with the joy and affection of those closest to you. Cherish these gifts, show your gratitude and count your blessings.
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RegistRy tips & FAQ’s
Find links to all the top stores, browse bridal shower themes, learn how to write personalized thank you notes and reference our gift chart for every anniversary.
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JUST SAY “YES” AND LET US DO THE REST. Family and friends can purchase from your registry in store, online or by calling 1•800•345•5273
We offer : • Over 300 stores in 29 states, coast to coast • Your favorite brand names • Personal service for you, your family and guests • A free wedding and home planner as your gift • “Complete Your New Home” Completion Program – receive 20% off most items remaining on your registry. Ask our wedding consultants for details. Plus you’ll be able to view and update your registry anytime at www.dillards.com.
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He alt h + Cook in g P I N K A P RO N P R E V I E W. C O M
Healthy Cooking Classes, Entertaining Ideas, Wedding Gift Registry, Healthy Recipes, Top Quality Cookware, Kitchen Utensils & More
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SOMETHING OLD
Restoration AND NEW
Maybe it was your mother’s or even your grandmother’s wedding gown. Maybe you’ve simply gone in for a vintage dress. Either way, your gown’s not quite tip-top, and it needs a little TLC before the wedding. Even a damaged or neglected gown can be restored or restyled if you invest in the services of a professional who specializes in the care of bridal fabrics. Once you find a restorer, discuss tears, beverage and perspiration stains, and yellowing to decide if the restoration will be to your satisfaction. Color changes can be miraculous, and replacement fabric can often be found to match the original. Your restoration company should have a designer who can fit or style the dress to your size or taste. If you’re trying to create a truly vintage look, make sure your designer is familiar with the period you’re trying to emulate, or at least is conscientious enough to do the research in order to make any alterations or additions look authentic. After the wedding, whether you wore a new gown or an heirloom, arrange to return it to a gown specialist for cleaning and preserving. Even if you escaped the red-wine trauma, perspiration and other obscure stains will make
their mark, becoming embedded in a matter of weeks. A professional will find stains, know what caused them, remove them without damage and guarantee the work and your gown for the next generation, even if you open up your gown preservation box at home. Somewhere in your future there may be a friend or relative who will appreciate the “something old” you offer them when they re-enact your restoration drama at their wedding.
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You finally found everything you’ve been looking for.
Brands. Value. Bliss! When you register with Kohl’s Wedding Wishes Gift Registry, you’ll find great brands like KitchenAid,® Food Network™, Simply Vera Vera Wang and more. Plus, incredible value is in store for both you and your guests! They’ll receive an extra 15% off any in-store purchase of $50 or more from your registry when they present one of our complimentary announcement cards, and after the wedding you’ll save an extra 15% on any remaining items. And with more than 1,000 stores nationwide and Kohls.com, registering—and saving!—has never been so convenient.
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Texas Marriage Laws
In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. You’ll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You don’t, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early, licenses are valid for 30 days. Requirements may vary as each county in Texas could have their own requirements but the general list is as follows: ID Requirement: One valid form of ID such as a driver’s license, certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport or military ID, and your Social Security number. Residency Requirement: Neither one of you have to be a resident of Texas. Texas is a great locale for a destination wedding! Pre-Marital Education: Couples are encouraged to attend a premarital education course that is at least four hours duration. It must be finished during the year preceding applying for a marriage license. Contact the county clerk for a roster of area course providers. Previous Marriage: If divorced within 30 days, Texas requires that you show a certified copy of your divorce decree stating the 30 day waiting period is waived. Waiting Period in Texas: Marriage licenses have a 72 hour waiting period, which can be waived due to active duty military status. Fees and Other Tests: $31-71 cash, so don’t leave home without it! The fees may vary from Texas county to county. Blood tests or medical examinations are not required in Texas. NOTE: Effective September 2008, the license fee will be waived if a couple takes an 8-hour premarital preparation course that covers important marital skills and issues such as conflict management and communication. Officiants: Persons authorized to perform weddings in Texas include licensed or ordained Christian ministers, priests, Jewish rabbis, officers authorized by religious organizations, justices of the supreme court, judges of the court of criminal appeals, justices of the courts of appeals, judges of the district, county, and probate courts, judges of the county courts at law, judges of the courts of domestic relations, judges of the juvenile courts, retired justices or judges, justices of the peace, retired justices of the peace, and judges or magistrates of a federal court of Texas. Copy of Certificate of Marriage: Bureau of Vital Statistics Texas Department of Health P.O. Box 12040 Austin, TX 78711-2040 Phone - (512) 458-7111 For a list of the Clerk of Courts Office in your area, visit: http://usmarriagelaws.com/search/united_states/texas/index.shtml#counties BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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Honeymoon tip.
Consider taking an easy three-day trip right after your wedding, but plan for a more extensive honeymoon six months later, or on your one-year anniversary. You’ll be more relaxed.
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Honeymoon A VACATION I N P A R A D I S E
The stress of planning a wedding is over, your in-laws are gone and for the next couple days or weeks, you get to have the getaway single people dream of and married couples want to do again: your honeymoon. It doesn’t matter if you’re at a luxurious Caribbean resort or sleeping in a tent near your home – what matters is that you’re starting your life together, and what better way to start that than with a romantic and intimate escape?4
Here are some tips to make sure your planning goes smoothly and the trip fulfills your every fantasy: COMMUNICATE This seems basic enough, but don’t assume anything when you’re planning a honeymoon! Take time to sit down and toss ideas around – what kind of destination you’d like (beach, foreign, cruise, etc.) and what you want to spend your time doing once you’re there (when you’re not in your bedroom.) Ask each other if you’d like a destination where there are lots of activities such as water sports, hot tourist spots, shopping or hiking, or if both of you would rather go somewhere you can relax and be pampered. It’s totally up to you, but make sure that your expectations are established before you book anything so there aren’t unexpected disagreements when you want to read a novel on the beach all day and your spouse wants snorkeling lessons. And don’t forget – this is the start of your lives together, so this honeymoon could be the beginning of throwing in a few compromises here and there. Here are some planning tips:
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Tropical Most people think a honeymoon is a tropical island straight out of a postcard. You can’t beat a fruity drink with a little umbrella in it, a spa treatment on the beach or romantic walks down the white sand at sunset. Even for the most active couples, a honeymoon is probably the one time where it’s OK to sit back and let yourself be taken care of. Check into a bunch of places before you go - many have special honeymoon packages and some cater exclusively to honeymooners. Also, be sure to ask if it is really “all” inclusive. At some places this means your room and two meals, at others it means three meals, drinks, champagne at arrival and a spa treatment. Don’t be afraid to make some requests – mention another resort threw in chocolatecovered strawberries with their all-inclusive package, and you might see a couple more perks when you walk in the door. Abroad An exciting trip abroad is an exciting way to start a marriage. You’ll have a sense of adventure when you’re caught up in a S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
HONEYMOON whirlwind of new ideas and cultures, all while beginning a new adventure of your own. However, if you’ve never been abroad before, make sure this is something you really want to do, because planning a foreign trip for the first time can be stressful, and it could be overwhelming to be in new lands for the first time when all you want to do is relax. If you do go, make sure your passport is updated, especially if your last name on a different piece of identification is going to change. It’s usually best to book any tickets in your maiden name, since that is likely to be the name still on your passport and driver’s license. For more information on specific foreign destinations or if you’re worried about health and safety abroad, call the International Traveler’s Hotline at 404-332-4559. Keeping it Local If you don’t have the funds for a plane ticket abroad or can’t get away for a long trip, look around you to see what your area has to offer. You’ll probably be surprised to learn there is a romantic bed & breakfast just a few miles from your home or a beautiful state park where you can sleep under the stars. Turn your cell phones off and just spend time with each other so it seems as if you’re light years away from the rest of the world. Again, it doesn’t matter where you go, it’s how you spend your time honeymooning that you’ll remember for years to come. Cruises If you can’t decide on a destination, a cruise might be for you – it’s got it all and more. If you want to see Europe, but you’ve never been and don’t have time to plan a trip, try a Mediterranean cruise. If you want a tropical location but can’t decide on a spot, get on a Caribbean cruise that will take you to many different islands. And if you can’t decide whether you want to relax or be active, a cruise will give you plenty of H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
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HONEYMOON options to do both. Plus, meals, drinks and entertainment are all included and it’s all right outside your cabin door!
you don’t want to have to drive home to get a pair of snow boots you didn’t think you’d need!
When you’re planning, just like anywhere else, mention you’re on your honeymoon and see if the cruise line has a special deal or package for you.
USE AN EXPERIENCED TRAVEL AGENT You have enough planning and details on your plate with the wedding – leave your travel planning to a professional! The cost to you is generally zero, or very minimal, and they’ll save you so much time and greatly reduce your stress. If anything goes wrong –your flight is cancelled, or the hotel lost your reservation – your travel agent is there to help, just a phone call away. Look for one who focuses on wedding & honeymoon travel, or who specializes in the geographical area you wish to visit.
BEFORE YOU GO Even though you’ll have a lot on your plate to plan for the wedding before you leave, take some time to get information on your chosen destination before you leave. Here are some things to think about, especially if you’ve never traveled to your honeymoon location before: Different Customs. If you’re traveling abroad, or even to an Americanized resort in the Caribbean, do a little research to learn if there are gestures that are deemed inappropriate, actions that are considered rude or types of dress that are unacceptable to the local community. Language. Pick up a pocket-sized dictionary or phrase book if you’re going somewhere that neither of you speak the language. Tipping. Not everywhere has the same tipping as in the United States – look into who to tip and what percentage. Weather. Know the typical weather of your destination at the time of your travel, and plan for contingencies. Even if you’re staying local,
PUT ROMANCE IN YOUR HONEYMOON It’s no secret that a honeymoon is all about those intimate moments and letting out your romantic side, so be proactive in setting up that excitement! Pack a secret gift for each other to open on the honeymoon – new lingerie, a romantic photo album or something personal you two share that would ignite a little fire. You could also give each other ‘coupons’ with little favors, such as an intimate massage or a promise to try deep-sea fishing the next day. No matter what romance you bring into the honeymoon, just keep it as personal as possible and neither of you will be able to quit smiling, no matter where you are.
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destination wedding or honeymoon has never been so easy! A warm, sunny beach… A villa in Italy… A chalet in the Rocky Mountains… Finding the perfect location is the first step and where better to start than
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domestic
Florida Keys Story By rachael Dragani
Newly married couple at Little Palm Island
Here in the southern most tip of the United States, life is about as laid back or adventurous as you want it to be. Kayak along the rushing Keys one day and relax on a private beach the next. Honeymooners looking for an intimate getaway can book a private bungalow they never have to leave, and couples who want to show off their newly perfected dance moves can party in Key West till dawn. The different islands are easily accessible, so each day can feel like a new vacation. Planning a wedding may have left you feeling like you lost control, but in the Florida Keys, everything is up to you.
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Scuba Diving at Little Palm Island
Lay of the Land The Florida Keys are a series of islands that run southwest of Miami. Starting with Key Largo and ending with Key West, the islands stretch for a sunny 110 miles of blue water and lively coasts. Many are connected by bridges or causeways so it’s easy to scuba through a shipwreck off Key Largo one day and get a beachside massage at a 5-star resort in Marathon the next. Because of its southern location, the Keys can be considered the American Caribbean and offer a lot of the same thrills as a tropical destination – snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing – without leaving the country.
Beachside Massage at Little Palm Island
top Must see’s, Must do’s Maritime Adventures Since the Keys are islands, the main tourism draws involve the crystal clear water that surrounds the area. If you’re a diver, Key Largo’s John Pennekamp State Park is the best place to explore the underwater world. Dives to abandoned shipwrecks can also be arranged in Key Largo. For fishermen (and women!), Islamorada offers some of the best sport fishing in the country. Chartered boats give couples the chance to catch a 10 lb. bonefish for dinner, or get a private sailboat and do some relaxing boating and fishing. If you just want to de-stress from your big day on the beach, head to Big Pine Key for a laidback atmosphere along pristine beaches.
Stroll Down Duval Street During the day, take your time sauntering down Duval Street in Key West. If you’re looking for shopping, a fresh seafood lunch, an afternoon daiquiri, a Cuban cigar or all of the above, Duval Street is your place. Along the street, in what looks like an ordinary Victorian style home, is the Key West Butterfly Conservatory, where you can see 60 butterfly species and 20 exotic bird species. Stay on Duval Street till after
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Diving in the Florida Keys
Shopping in Key West
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Little Palm Island Bungalo
sunset for the most happening party spot in town, but depending on the time of year, risk getting a beer poured on your head by an over-zealous spring breaker.
Where to stay Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Little Torch Key For a truly intimate stay, book a bungalow at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, three miles off the coast of the lower Keys. It’s only accessible by boat or small seaplane, but once you’re there you’re hidden on an exotic island with everything you need for a never-ending romantic getaway. The resort boasts gourmet dining, couple spa treatments, private beaches, snorkeling and diving trips and a fitness center. Conde Nast Traveler named it the best resort in the country.
Little Palm Island Resort Bedroom
Marquesa Hotel, Key West If you want to be a little more centrally located but still want a charming atmostphere, check out the Marquesa Hotel in Key West. Set in the center of the historic old town area of Key West, the hotel is made up of four refurbished Victorian buildings around two luxury pools and a plush garden. The quaint and private buildings offer old-school pleasures such as marble baths with the modern amenities of free wi-fi and poolside dining service.
Marquesa Hotel
The Moorings Village, Islamorada Key For a secluded getaway on the relaxing Islamorada, which is about the center point of the Keys, get yourselves one of the 18 private cottages at The Moorings Village. Built on what used to be a coconut plantation, the cottages are self-sufficient with kitchen, laundry, and TV and just a stroll away from a beach. Since Islamorada is the best place to fish in the Keys, trips can be easily booked with the hotel.
Marquesa Hotel Pool Suite - Standard
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Where to eat Like any American tourist destination, good restaurants are plenty in the Keys, but so are decent, gimmicky restaurants. It’s best to decide what kind of food you’re in the mood to eat and ask around for the latest tasty place. If you’re a seafood lover, try some Caribbean and Cuban influenced fish and shrimp, which is often grilled with a citrus salsa topping and served with rice and beans or rich cornbread. A seafood staple is Blue Heaven in Key West, or if you like shellfish the Half Shell Raw Bar is a favorite. If you like eating your fresh seafood while reclining in a lawn chair on the beach, try the Morada Bay Beach Café in Islamorada.
Climate
Authentic Mexican and traditional American spots are also big on the Keys, so ask around for the best local places. Wherever you go, make sure to save room for Florida’s dessert specialty – a thick slice of key lime pie.
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fact sheet
the Florida Keys are as close to the equator as you’ll get in the states, so the weather is warm and sunny year round, especially in the lower Keys. during the summer it can get into very humid mid 90s, and in the winter can dip down to the 50s or 60s at night, so bring a jacket. other than that, temperatures sit in comfortable 70s and 80s.
time Zone
the Keys are in the eastern time Zone, or est..
• iSSUance: applicants must be 18 years old to obtain a marriage license. 16 and 17 year olds must have both parent’s consent. younger parties need parental consent or consent of a County Judge. Both applicants must appear in person and provide a valid picture-type id, with date of birth shown. there is no residence or citizenship requirement.
• Prior MarriageS: if either applicant has been previously married, the exact date of the last death, divorce, or annulment must be provided. Bring a copy of your divorce decree.
• little Palm island resort & spa 28500 overseas highway, little torch Key, Fl 33042 305-515-4004 or 1-800.343.8567 www.littlepalmisland.com
Where to Stay
• tiMe liMit: licenses must be used within 60 days. there is a 3 day waiting period for Florida residents unless authorized premarital class certification is provided. there is no waiting period for out-of-state residents.
• marquesa hotel 600 Fleming street, Key west, Florida 33040 305-292-1919 or 1-800-869-4631 www.marquesa.com
• SoleMnization: a marriage may be performed by regularly ordained clergy, judiciary, state of Florida notaries, the Clerk of the Circuit Court and deputy Clerks.
• the moorings Village 123 Beach road, islamorada, Fl 33036 305-664-4708 www.themooringsvillage.com
• coSt: a marriage license is $93.50. the license is $61.00 for Florida residents with premarital class certificate.
Florida KeyS marriage requirementS
• in monroe County, the Clerk’s office is the issuing agent of marriage license for the state of Florida. the Clerk’s office provides this service at the Key west Courthouse (305-292-3458), marathon Branch Courthouse (305289-6027) and the Upper Keys government Center, Plantation Key, (305-852-7145).
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• recorDing oF licenSe: the person who performed the ceremony must return the license within ten days of the ceremony to the marriage license section, where it will then be recorded in the official records. Until that license is received, there is no record of the marriage. after recordation, a certified copy will be returned to the newlyweds, by mail. the original license is sent to the oFFiCe oF Vital statistiCs in Jacksonville.
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tropical
You’d never believe Costa Rica was just one country. Two separate coastlines, mountains, rainforests and wildlife would already make it the perfect destination, but the warm hospitality of the Costa Rican people, the tasty fresh fish and fruits and the laid-back `pura vida` lifestyle make this place almost impossible to leave. Get a romantic bungalow in the jungle or embrace the national parks and adventure sports – whatever it is, your first trip as a married couple will be a memorable one without limits.
Costa riCa
Story By rachael Dragani
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Lay of the Land Costa Rica is a geographical wonderland. It’s a relatively small country sitting between two distinct coasts with mountains and jungle in between, so it’s a unique place where it’s possible to do all types of travel in a short period of time. The West Coast is the Pacific side, with higher waves that, while they draw some of the world’s top surfers, is also the perfect place to test your board abilities for the first time. It also boasts other types of water sports like paragliding, windsurfing, whitewater rafting and some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving. The east coast is the Caribbean side, with calmer beaches in some areas and a more laid-back island vibe. In between, you’ve got mountains and jungles, so there’s opportunities to take a volcano trek, swim in waterfalls, hike in cloud forests atop mountains and of course you can’t leave the country without experiencing a trip to a national park to see thousands of types of wildlife and plant species. Since it’s a small country with a reliable transportation system, it’s possible to do it all within a week, if need be, but take all the time you can to experience all Costa Rica has to offer!
Enjoy an unforgettable “flight” between treetops along zip lines. The Hotel Arenal Paraiso’s canopy tour has 12 platforms at approximately 240 feet above the jungle floor and 1200 feet cable. Travel by horseback on natural trails used by pioneers in the area, making a stop in a beautiful observatory close to the base of the volcano at the Hotel Arenal Paraiso
Hiking in the Parque Nacional Corcovado
top Must see’s, Must do’s Ecotourism in National Parks Costa Rica has an incredible wealth of ecosystems, wildlife and natural resources to preserve, and luckily for us, they take great pride in doing so. National parks full of exotic animals, birds and plants take up the majority of the country and are essential to visit while in Costa Rica. Parque Nacional Corcovado in the southwest of the country is the most popular, famously labeled ‘The Most Biologically Intense Place on Earth.’ Head to this sprawling park to see eight different habitats, including coastline and cloud forests, endangered species, and incredible biodiversity. To see the meeting
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Surfing, diving and snorkeling are great water activities in Costa Rica.
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point between dry and wetland, huge crocs, mystical types of trees and ancient burial grounds, head to Parque Nacional Carara, just south of the capital city San Jose. Parque Nacional Chirripo is a lofty mountain destination for a trekking getaway to escape the heat and Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is your place if you love monkeys and coconuts. Whatever you’re looking for, Costa Rica has it in a national park. Unless you’re a biology specialist, go on a guided tour in the parks to get the most out of your experience.
Water Activities If you’re an adventurous underwater couple, or one who is up for tackling learning how to dive or surf, Costa Rica is your place. The crystal clear waters of both coasts, the waves of the Pacific, the biodiversity and the friendly attitudes of instructors and guides make it the ideal aqua destination. For surfing, one of the most popular destinations are the beaches near Tamarindo and scuba divers find their
paradise Playa Conchal or Cocos Island, both on the Pacific side. Wherever you are near beach in Costa Rica, check out opportunities to kayak, go rafting, go sport fishing, see dolphins and whales, visit hot springs or canoe.
La Fortuna For a one-stop destination inland, check out La Fortuna, home of Volcan Arenal, hot springs, an enormous waterfall and a wildlife refuge. The majestic Arenal Volcano sits about 20 km outside of bustling La Fortuna, and you can arrange for a day trip to the volcano, hike it, or rent a bike to ride to the national park surrounding the active volcano. While you’re there, take in the natural hot springs, especially wonderful at night when they’re lit by hot lava. A different day, rent a bike or get a tour to the local rushing waterfall and check out wildlife at the local reserve. Other adventure sports like ziplining and rafting are available here, too, making it the spot to spend a couple days inland.
Arenal volcano in the Arenal National Park, active since 1968, erupts almost every day. Smoke and magma (lava) can be seen, you can also hear the rocks falling down and smell the toxic gases (sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide).
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Exterior View of the Tamarindo Diria
Tamarindo If you’re looking for a beach destination where you can also be near to town, great restaurants and opportunities outside of working on your tan, Tamarindo is a great Pacific destination. Water sports of all types are available here, and it’s a particularly great place for divers and surfers (or travelers hoping to become divers and surfers!) to crash. Three distinct beaches, Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande and Playa Langosta are all nearby, and if you get sick of the beach the town of tamarindo is a great place to do some shopping and eat delicious meals. If you’re there from January to March, it’s even possible to see the giant leatherback turtles that make the near-impossible trek to the island to nest each year. Get a guide and scour the beach at night, but don’t be too disappointed if you don’t see one – hunting and dying ecosystems unfortunately make the number of leatherbacks each year fewer and fewer.
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Where to stay Tamarindo Diria This is your best bet if you’re staying in Tamarindo. In addition to sitting on an expansive white-sand beach, the resort offers multiple pools, seaside views, a mouthwatering breakfast buffet, great service and access to guided tours and scuba or surf lessons. If you’re planning a wedding in Costa Rica, this is also a beautiful place to go, with the beach or lovely gardens as backdrop and an efficient wedding planner to help you customize every detail over e-mail or phone. If you get antsy lounging around the pool, it’s location right in the center of town make it a great place to be based.
Hotel Arenal Paraiso Hotel & Spa If you’re going to La Fortuna, look no further than Arenal Paraiso. Accurately named Arenal Paradise, this tranquil resort is nestled between the town and volcano, which means it’s just far enough from the bustling town
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Sunset Ocean View Room at the Tamarindo Diria
to be relaxing while still offering beautiful views of the volcano amidst mystical clouds. The hotel boasts two restaurants, 14 pools and incredible trails through the forest that borders the hotel. You can also book tours of the area by horseback or zipline offered by the hotel. If nothing else, the world class spa and natural hot springs should be enough to make you book your stay today. Superior Room at the Hotel Arenal Paraiso
Cariblue Hotel If you’re staying on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo de Limon is a popular destination, and Cariblue is the best place to stay there. Rent a private thatched-roof bungalow and hibernate in the jungle or venture out to the calm, crystal-blue watered beaches or tranquil pools of the resort. With a restaurant and top-notch accommodations, you’ll never have to leave your bungalow!
What to eat Standard Room at the Hotel Arenal Paraiso
Cariblue Deluxe Bungalo
If you’re a seafood lover, book your trip to Costa Rica today. The two coasts make it a prime destination to try every type of fish possible, fried or boiled and often served whole (head and all!). You can order fish or another type of meat (usually chicken or thin steak) as a casado, which means it comes as a meal with sides that are usually rice, beans, tortillas and plantains, tasty sweet fried bananas that are a staple in Central America. Don’t leave the country without trying ceviche, a refreshing mix of tomato, chili pepper, onions, cilantro and sometimes raw fish, usually served with plantain chips or tortillas. It’s a national specialty and perfect with a cold beer under the hot sun. And don’t forget to get a rich cup of freshly brewed coffee in the morning. The beans are homegrown and deliciously strong. No matter where you travel in Costa Rica, you’ll find a variety of options to eat the local specialties cheaply in addition to more upscale places that serve more familiar foods. Ask around to get the best options in your area.
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Tamarindo Diria Restaurant
Climate
fact sheet
Costa rica has a tropical climate and sees temperatures in the 80s or above throughout the year. inland, near the capital of san Jose, the mountain breezes bring cooler nights where you’ll need a jacket. may to november is rainy season. Costa rican downpours are quick and infrequent enough that a honeymoon could still be enjoyable during the rainy season, but if you’re planning a destination wedding keep in mind some hotels don’t have the same sort of beachside accommodations or services they could during the dry season.
language
spanish is the primary language in Costa rica, but since much of the economy is based on tourism, english is widely spoken. if you’re planning on going to a more remote area of the country, it wouldn’t hurt to bring along a spanish guidebook if you don’t speak the language.
time Zone
Costa rica runs on Central standard time.
eleCtriCity
110V/60 hz - no need for an adaptor.
SaFety
Compared to other parts of Central america, Costa rica is a safe country. however, violent crime and theft do occur, especially in big cities like the capital. always be aware of your surroundings, and in each place you go, ask at the hotel what safety precautions should be taken for that specific area.
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Where to Stay
• tamarindo diria: www.tamarindodiria.com • hotel arenal Paraiso hotel & spa: www.arenalparaiso.com • Cariblue hotel: www.cariblue.com
CurrenCy
the official currency of Costa rica is colonias, but in tourist areas Us dollars are widely accepted and sometimes preferred. like the rest of Central america, don’t rely on functioning atms or establishments that take credit cards – try to always have enough cash on you to take care of emergencies.
tipping
tipping is not standard in Costa rica, but if restaurant service is good a small tip is always appreciated and sometimes even expected from travelers. make sure to check your bill, or with a restaurant beforehand, to see if there is a service charge, as sometimes they like to sneak it in.
getting married in CoSta riCa
Costa rica is one of the easiest countries for a destination wedding. in order to obtain a license you simply need to send a copy of your passport and fill out a short questionnaire for authorities. you do not need to be in the country for a certain amount of time before your wedding. if you are working with a hotel or agency to plan your wedding, make sure notary services are provided so they can take care of all of that for you.
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international
london Story By rachael Dragani
Night time view of Tower bridge London
Few cities can claim the blend of fascinating world history and efficient modern luxuries that London can. The city that once held the keys to a grand worldwide empire now holds an arguably better set – one that can open ordinary eyes to splendid royal palaces, treasures, legends and architecture while still being able to enjoy fine international dining, world-class theater and music and a refreshing massage at a 5-star resort. London can be a whirlwind, but you and your spouse just experience a whirlwind of planning and new experiences. You’re ready to jump in and let this exciting city work its magic.
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British troops and musicians in traditional military uniforms parade through London to Buckingham Palace
Lay of the Land Situated in southern England near the greater European continent, London is the gateway to the rest of Western Europe. It’s a great stopover for a few days to kick off a European honeymoon, or take time to get lost in the city’s mazes of gardens, castles, cobblestones, pubs and monuments. The city is broken up into different neighborhoods, such as Notting Hill, Soho and Westminster, most of which are easily accessible by tube (subway), taxi or car. Do some research to see which part of town you’d like to stay in and plan your trip from there.
Westminster Abbey is the traditional coronation and burial site for English monarchs
top Must see’s, Must do’s Walking Tours of London The obvious draw to London is it’s incredible history, and just walking a few city blocks can take you centuries back and continents away. Book one with a trusted tour company such as London Walks, (www.walks.com), or do some online research for “Downladable London Walking Tours” and print off a map of your own. Now, with iPods and MP3 players, there are many mobile versions where you can have a certified tour guide right inside your headphones and go at your own pace. Tours range from basic historical sites like the London Bridge, Westminster Abbey and Hyde Park but can also be much more eclectic and interesting, such as Jack the Ripper, Harry Potter or Royal Wedding tours.
Cosy mews houses in Notting Hill, London
Wine Tasting at Vinopolis
Vinopolis Wine Tour London can be a whirlwind of a city, so for some romantic time between you and your partner, slow down and share some wine and cheese at a tasting tour over the rolling hills outside the city. Visit www.vinopolis.co.uk for different tours, dining options and even tasting of whiskey or British home brew.
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Thames River Cruise The Thames famously runs through London, and there’s no better way to see the miles of riverfront scenery than by boat at night. Custom yours to include champagne, a fine meal, dancing, live jazz, or end it near the famous Globe Theater, situated near the river, and take in some Shakespeare after a moonlight boat ride.
London: Home of 2012 Summer Olympics Even if you’re not an athletic couple, the feats of strength and overcoming of obstacles during the Olympics can make a sports fanatic out of anyone. So if you’re planning a London honeymoon between July 27 and August 12, 2012, be prepared to witness firsthand the blood, sweat and tears of the world’s greatest athletes. London will host visitors from around the world to witness the summer Olympics most tried and trued events like track and field, swimming, gymnastics and more.
Even if going to the actual events doesn’t interest you, it will be an exciting time to be in the city and a great opportunity to meet revelers from across the world. Beware, though, if you’re traveling during this time, you will need to book as far in advance as possible (as in, NOW) and be ready to pay at least double on hotels, food and entertainment. Crime and security risks also increase during this time, although security will be heightened. It will be a once in a lifetime chance to be part of the world’s oldest, greatest athletic competition, but get prepared now! For more information or to buy event tickets, visit http://www. london2012.com.
Where to stay Lord Milner London This luxury B&B offers just 11 rooms, all with marble bathrooms but completely different and unique designs. For instance,
View from the Royal Garden Hotel
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Lord Milner Garden Suite
one room is done in traditional Victorian style and another modeled after an African sunset. It’s slightly removed from the bustling city to offer a more tranquil stay, but city activities are easily accessible. Internet access and continental breakfast are available in the room.
Royal Garden Hotel For a luxury stay a little closer to the heart of town, try the Royal Garden. Overlooking the green Kensington Gardens, the service is impeccable and fine dining is a main component of the resort. If you’re planning a destination wedding, the garden views and experienced planners make this a good spot.
Royal Garden Hotel Room
Baglioni Hotel You can’t go wrong with Italian luxury and dining overlooking fine English gardens at the Baglioni Hotel. Even though it’s walking distance from most of London’s attractions, a tranquil spa, special honeymoon packages, and one of the best Italian restaurants in town make this stately hotel almost impossible to leave.
Baglioni Hotel Guest Room
What to eat British cuisine has never had a good reputation, and if you don’t know where to go in London, it might live up to its awful name. If you want something traditional, ask around where you’re staying for the best pub to get a good hearty British meal. For other types of dining, try Soho for trendier places and a bustling street life and The Borough part of town for breakfast or lunch markets. If you like Indian food, (spicier than American style Indian), London is a great place to get a meal. Head to Brick Lane, sometimes called Banglatown, for a wall of curry houses. For other Indian meals, Bradford is a good spot. Thai food is also good in London, especially at The Blue Elephant in Fulham.
Baglioni Hotel
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Where to Stay
fact sheet SaFety
• lord milner london: www.lordmilner.com
• royal garden hotel: www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk • Baglioni hotel: www.baglionihotels.com
Climate
like most of europe, beware of pickpockets in london. in recent years, knife crime has worsened in england, but almost never towards tourists. Keep purses and wallets near you at all times.
time Zone
london fog isn’t a myth, but there isn’t enough to put a damper on a honeymoon. london can be uncomfortably humid in the 80s and 90s in the summer and is more enjoyable in the spring or fall where the temperature is usually in the 50s or 60s. the winter isn’t usually below 30 and snow is infrequent. light rain is common, so be prepared with a jacket or umbrella but don’t let it stop you from doing anything as it usually doesn’t last long.
western european standard time, or wet.
CurrenCy
• submit proper (original) documentation, including birth certificates, passports and, if necessary, divorce papers or death certificates. if either party is under 18, parental consent must be obtained.
Unlike the majority of europe, england did not switch over to the euro and still uses the British pound. Check online right before you go for the most current exchange rate to avoid paying too much commission to exchange currencies. Pounds come in notes as high as a 50, but try to get smaller bills since that one is difficult to break. Credit cards can be used at most places, but it’s safe to carry small amounts of cash as well.
tipping
in general, london tips in a similar fashion to the states. a service charge is sometimes added to a bill for food or drinks, and if not, 15% is the standard rate. taxi drivers also expect a tip of about 10-15% .
eleCtriCity
london runs on 240 volt/50 hz, so if you have american power cords you’ll need an adaptor.
getting married in london
• Contact the superintendent registrar of the district where the wedding will take place or make arrangements with the venue. if a couple does not plan to marry in a church or other religious venue, they must register in person at the appropriate office.
• a certificate wedding requires the couple to be residents of the district for seven days prior to registering their wedding, with the ceremony taking place 21 days later. a more expensive yet faster option is a special license wedding in which the couple must be residents for 15 days prior to the registration with the wedding taking place one fully clear day after the registration (typically two days later). • all weddings must have two witnesses and take place at an approved location for the ceremony to be legally valid. lists of such premises can be purchased from the general register office in southport. more information can be found at the UK in the Usa website: www.ukinusa.fco.gov.uk
London’s Double Decker Busses
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B A Z A A R
B R I D A L
A MOMENT IN TIME, LLC We plan the day, so you can dream about tomorrow. Susan Keough Owner and Wedding Coordinator 979-204-4716 w w w.aggielandweddings.com
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BENJAMIN KNOX ART CENTER Whether you are planning a banquet, rehearsal dinner, reception or bridal shower, the Benjamin Knox Event Center is per fect for any event. Call Melissa today to hear about our special of fers. 405 University Dr. East College Station, T X 979.696.5669 w w w.benjaminknox.com
Cenare Italian Cuisine
CENARE Come to Cenare and enjoy the finest in Italian cuisine. Cenare of fers catering ser vices as well as a private dining room for rehearsal dinners and banquets. Or just come to Cenare for an intimate dinner with someone special. 404 University Dr. East College Station, T X 979.696.7311 w w w.gotocenare.com
DYNA MIC INV ITES Your best source for fine quality personalized printed products! Our representation of the nation’s leading printing companies allows us to provide you with the best product at the best prices. We are here to ser ve you. 281.358.0584 lisa@dynamicsounds.cc w w w.dynamicsounds.cc.cceasy.com
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L A S B R I S A S FA R M Las Brisas Farm is a stunning, unique retreat for your special moments, including elegant, outdoor, garden weddings, retreats, scrapbooking retreats and bed and breakfast respites. 1108 Ross Prairie Church Rd. Fayet teville, T X 979.378.1108 w w w.lasbrisasfarm.com
PLU M E Y ER PH OTOG R A PH Y In this digital age where anyone can call oneself a “professional photographer”, you deser ve a photographer with years of education & experience to capture your family’s por traits, your children’s por traits, and your high school senior por traits. 150 S. Seguin Ave. New Braunfels, T X 830.606.1505 w w w.plumeyer.com
PEANUT BARREL TR AVEL Don’t get multiple toasters for your wedding presents, give your family & friends an option that you (and your pocketbook) can truly enjoy. Go to w w w.peanutbarreltravel.com to sign up for our Honeymoon Registr y. Go to w w w.peanutbarreltravel.com> click on “Extras”> click on “Honeymoon Wishes” in the center of the screen and you can begin the process to have your family & friends help pay for your honeymoon. w w w.peanutbarreltravel.com
PURE ELEGANCE Modern design with timeless elegance. Simply, style. Cut ting edge floral and event design accompanied by unparallel skill and superb customer ser vice. 2358 FM 2935 Brenham, T X 979.830.1707 w w w.pure-elegancedec.com
PB TIPS PLANNING FOR THE DRIVE HOME AFTER THE RECEPTION Plan safe travel ideas for guests and offer late-night snacks about an hour before the reception is scheduled to end. Set up the service and someone to make an announcement. A late-night coffee/tea service has become popular and guests will appreciate this thoughtful gesture prior to their drive home. BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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Registe r
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Absolutely everything for your wedding! Both LocaL and nationaL! Bridal Shows Reception Search idea and Picture Galleries Registry information Featured Weddings Marriage Laws Planning Guides honeymoons/destination Weddings Local Wedding Vendors and More!
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THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER
THE WEDDING TIMELINE WEDDING DAY CHECKLIST THE WEDDING BUDGET SHARING THE COST PLANNERS FOR CAKES, CATERING, FLOWERS, MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT, PHOTOGRAPHY, RECEPTION & VIDEOGRAPHY WEDDING ATTIRE PLANNER IMPORTANT INFORMATION & NOTES
Log on for a more detailed and downloadable version of this planner. Absolutely everything for your wedding! COPYRIGHT ©2011 Premier Bride and iWed, Inc.
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THE WEDDING TIMELINE
Shop for and order wedding gown, veil and accessories
24 MONTHS AHEAD
12 MONTHS AHEAD
Decide on the budget
912 MONTHS AHEAD
Organized advance planning will ensure you enjoy every minute of your special day. Start planning your wedding 12 months ahead of time if possible and use the following timeline as a guide through the process. Once the planning is complete, relax and get plenty of rest - the festivities are about to begin.
Reserve ceremony site and officiant Work on guest list for a rough count Visit reception sites and reserve one Hire wedding consultant (for help with all planning, certain aspects of it, or day of coordination only)
Buy wedding rings and order engraving Announce engagement in local newspapers Confirm delivery dates of bridal gown and bridesmaids’ dresses Meet with caterer to discuss menu
Arrange ceremony rehearsal and notify participants
Choose attendants
12 MONTHS AHEAD
Select bridesmaids’ attire Plan details of reception: colors, decorations, balloons Select photographer Select band or DJ for reception Discuss honeymoon plans
Call county clerk’s office for marriage license details, and schedule date to obtain Mail invitations Arrange for final fittings on your gown Make reservations for bridesmaids’ luncheon Confirm honeymoon arrangements
Mail save-the-date cards if necessary
Record gifts received and write thank you notes promptly
Get engagement photo taken
Prepare printed program for ceremony Start reception seating chart and placecards
Reserve wedding day transportation
Purchase wedding accessories (guest book and pen, unity candle, toasting glasses, cake knife and server, and flower girl/ring bearer accessories)
Register for gifts at one to three stores Book musicians for ceremony Select florist Select caterer Reserve party rental equipment (table, tent, chairs, etc.) Order wedding cake Order invitations, personal stationery and thank you notes Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests
24 WEEKS AHEAD
69 MONTHS AHEAD
Buy and wrap attendants’ gifts
Select ceremony music, readings and vows and meet with officiant
Compile guest list
Select videographer
Book stylist or salon for bridal party hair, nails and make-up Select and purchase guest favors
1 WEEK AHEAD
Order men’s formalwear
Arrange for professionals to preserve your gown and bridal bouquet Follow up on missing RSVPs and finish seating chart/place cards Confirm final guest count to caterer and reception site Write rehearsal dinner and wedding toasts Confirm honeymoon arrangements
Finalize honeymoon plans (get your passport if needed!)
46 MONTHS AHEAD
Address wedding invitations
Find and reserve rehearsal dinner location
Have final consultation with caterer, florist, musicians, photographer and videographer Host bridesmaids’ luncheon Begin packing for honeymoon Put fees due on the wedding day in envelopes, for the best man to distribute
Reserve accommodations for wedding night Finalize guest list
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FOR HER:
Rings & marriage license Ring bearer pillow/flower girl basket Wedding programs Cake knife & server, toasting flutes Favors Guestbook & pen Unity candle, kiddush cup Pay officiant & vendors Assign person to collect/transport gifts
DON’T FORGET...
WEDDING ATTIRE
WEDDING DAY CHECKLIST Gown - be sure it is pressed Headpiece & veil Lingerie (bra, bustier, slip, petticoat) Hosiery & garter Shoes Jewelry & accessories Wrap/Jacket Gloves
FOR HIM:
WEDDING DAY EMERGENCY KIT
Phone numbers for wedding party, wedding coordinator & vendors Sewing kit (thread, needle, safety pins & scissors) Personal emergency kit (including Shout wipes, tampons & a small snack such as a granola bar) Skin care (cleansers, moisturizers & lotion) Hair care (hair dryer, curlers, brush, comb, hair spray, bobby pins) Nail polish (color for nails & clear to stop nylon runs) & super glue Makeup 2-sided tape & scotch tape Extra earring backs Extra nylons Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash
HONEYMOON CHECKLIST
Airline tickets (note flight number & departure/ arrival time) Cruise tickets (note cabin number(s) & departure/arrival time) Resort/Hotel phone & confirmation number Passports/Visas Camera & film Credit cards Traveler’s checks
UPDATING YOUR NAME
Coat, shirt, vest & trousers Cummerbund Neckwear Cufflinks Socks & shoes
Portable iron or steamer Hand mirror Disposable wipes & tissues Anti-cling spray Something old, new, borrowed & blue Deodorant Antacid, aspirin, allergy medication & bottled water Breath mints Cash (coins & bills) Disposable camera Plastic bags White tailor’s chalk for gown fixes Toupee tape for fallen hems Spray-on spot remover
Sewing kit Medicines/Prescriptions Extra contact lenses or glasses Toiletries Electrical plug adapters Travel iron Clock radio, travel size Hair dryer
Auto Registration
Investment accounts
Stock certificates
Bank & credit card accounts
Life insurance policy
Car insurance policy
Medical/dental records
Tax agency records (state/federal)
Credit reporting agencies
Memberships
Voter registration records
Deeds/titles
Passport
Wills/trusts
Driver’s license
Post Office records
Employee records
Social Security records
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THE WEDDING BUDGET
____________
Groom’s Wedding Ring
____________
Ceremony Site Fee
____________
Officiant
____________
Marriage License
____________
Aisle Runner
____________
Candles/Candelabra
____________
Other
____________
RECEPTION
____________
Bride’s Wedding Ring
MUSIC
Engagement Ring
Reception Site Fee
____________
Food, Service, Tax & Gratuity
____________
Beverage/Bar Corkage Fee
____________
Cake/Cake Cutting Fee
____________
Rental Items
____________
Other
____________
Ceremony
____________
Reception
____________
Other
____________
Photographer’s Fee
____________
Engagement Portrait
____________
Formal Wedding Portrait
____________
Proofs
____________
Wedding Album
____________
Candids
____________
Parents’ Sets
____________
Other
____________
Wedding VHS/DVD
____________
Additional Copies
____________
Bride’s Gown
____________
Alterations
____________
Headpiece & Veil
____________
Lingerie, Hosiery & Garter
____________
Shoes
____________
Jewelry & Accessories
____________
Wrap/Jacket
____________
Hair, Makeup & Manicure
____________
Other
____________
GROOM: Groom’s Formalwear
____________
Neckwear & Cufflinks
____________
Accessories
____________
Shoes
____________
Other
____________
PHOTOGRAPHY
BRIDE:
VIDEOGRAPHY
WEDDING ATTIRE
CEREMONY
RINGS
Know your overall budget BEFORE you start planning your wedding - it’s one of the first issues you and your fiancé should discuss. Set your priorities based on what is most important to both of you and spend accordingly. For example, if the meal is the most important element of your wedding, you’ll want to allocate a greater portion of your budget to it.
Photo Montage Video w/Music ____________ Reception Entertainment: Edited Highlights of Ceremony ____________ “Love Story” Production
____________
Projector Rental
____________
Other
____________
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____________
Attendants’ Bouquets
____________
Groom’s Boutonniere
____________
Attendants’ Boutonnieres
____________
GIFTS
FLOWERS
Bride’s Bouquet
Maid/Matron of Honor
____________
Bridesmaids’
____________
Best Man
____________
Groomsmen
____________
Helper Corsages/Boutonnieres ____________
Ushers
____________
Ceremony Flowers
____________
Child Attendants
____________
Reception Flowers
____________
Bride & Groom
____________
Decorations/Balloons
____________
Bride’s Parents
____________
Other
____________
Groom’s Parents
____________
Save-the-Date Cards
____________
Pre-Wedding Party Hosts
____________
Invitations & Envelopes
____________
Cake Cutting Attendant
____________
Calligrapher
____________
Gift Table Attendant
____________
Postage
____________
Guest Book Attendant
____________
Thank You Notes
____________
Soloists/Musicians (friends)
____________
Informal Stationery
____________
Other
____________
Ceremony Programs
____________
Placecards
____________
Wedding Coordinator
____________
Announcements
____________
Disposable Cameras
____________
Other
____________
Attendant Accommodations
____________
Bridesmaids’ Dresses/Shoes
____________
Flower Girl’s Dress
____________
Groomsmens’ Formalwear
____________
Ring Bearer’s Attire
____________
Bridesmaids’ Luncheon
____________
Other
____________
Rings
____________
Ceremony
____________
Reception
____________
Music
____________
Wedding Attire
____________
Photography
____________
Videography
____________
Flowers
____________
Stationery
____________
Transportation
____________
Favors & Accessories
____________
Gifts
____________
Miscellaneous
____________
Grand TOTAL
____________
Guest Transportation
____________
Parking
____________
Other
____________
Other
____________
Cake Knife & Server
____________
Cake Top
____________
Favors
____________
Flower Girl’s Basket
____________
Guest Book & Pen
____________
Ring Bearer’s Pillow
____________
Toasting Glasses
____________
Unity Candle, Kiddush Cup
____________
Other
____________
Other
____________
MISCELLANEOUS
Wedding Party Transportation: Limousine, Carriage, etc. ____________
TOTALS
FAVORS & ACCESSORIES
TRANSPORTATION
STATIONERY
Hosts for Out-of-Town Guests ____________
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SHARING THE COST
Groom’s wedding ring Wedding gift for groom Gifts for maid/matron of honor & bridesmaids
GROOM
BRIDE
It is no longer expected that wedding costs will be assigned according to tradition. Discuss your plan and budget with your families to determine whether to follow a traditional division of financial responsibility for the wedding costs. If circumstances don’t allow the families to follow tradition, the proper rationale in deciding who pays for what portion is basic: whoever is most willing and most able to pay for a wedding expense assumes responsibility for that expense.
Gift for parents (optional)
Bride’s engagement & wedding rings Bride’s bouquet & going-away corsage Boutonnieres for men in wedding party Mothers’ corsages Wedding gift for bride
Gowns for maid/matron of honor & bridesmaids (optional)
Gifts for best man, groomsman & ushers Gift for parents (optional)
Accommodations for out-of-town attendants (optional)
Formal wear for best man & groomsmen (optional)
Luncheon for bridal party
Accommodations for out-of-town attendants (optional)
Informal stationery
Honeymoon Engagement party
Fee for officiant
Bride’s wedding attire & trousseau Bride’s parents’ wedding attire Wedding gift for newlyweds Invitations, announcements, thank you notes, postage Engagement & wedding photographs Wedding ceremony site fee & decorations Wedding ceremony programs Wedding reception Flowers for ceremony & reception
GROOM’S FAMILY
BRIDE’S FAMILY
Marriage license
Bridal party bouquets & flowers for flower girl
Engagement party (optional; following party by bride’s parents) Groom’s wedding attire Groom’s parents’ wedding attire Wedding gift for newlyweds Groom’s informal stationery & thank you notes Rehearsal dinner Shipment of wedding gifts to couple’s home Welcome party for out-of-town guests (optional)
Videographer Musicians/vocalists Security & insurance for gifts Welcome party for out-of-town guests (optional)
WEDDING PARTY
Transportation for wedding party to ceremony & reception Bridal shower for bride Bachelor(ette) party Accommodations for self Wedding attire & shoes
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GROOM’S CAKE
CAKE STYLE
CAKES PLANNER Type of cake: Type & flavor of filling: Type & flavor of icing: Date to taste samples:
SETUP DETAILS
CAKE ACCESSORIES
Description
Cake topper: Cake flowers: Cake decorations: Cake stands: Cake boxes: Cake knife & server:
Type of cake: Type & flavor of filling: Type & flavor of icing: Description:
Location: How to decorate cake table: Part to save for Bride & Groom: Person to save & freeze the cake: Person to store cake top, knife & server: Person to return cake stand to bakery:
Tea Lunch Cocktails Dinner
Regional Seasonal Exotic Ethnic Thematic
SERVICE
Breakfast/Brunch
FLAVOR
TYPE
CATERING PLANNER
Salad Entrée Dessert
Beef Chicken Vegetarian Pork Seafood
DESSERT
Soup
ENTRÉES
COURSES
Appetizer
Passed hors d’oeuvres Hors d’oeuvres tables Seated meal (Family style, American, French, Russian, white glove) Buffet (formal staff-served, casual self-serve)
Dessert
Hors d’oeuvres
Cocktails
Regional Seasonal Exotic Ethnic Thematic
Lamb
Beer & wine only Wine with dinner Champagne toast Specialty cocktail
Vegetarian Kosher Halal Other
*Some states do not allow caterers to carry liquor licenses. Please check the laws in your state.
RENTAL ITEMS
Full Bar
SPECIAL
ALCOHOL*
Pasta
RENTALS AVAILABLE Tables Chairs & chair covers China, glassware, silverware & serving dishes Linens Ratio of guests to servers: ___________
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HELPERS
FLOWERS BY SEASON
TERMINOLOGY
FLOWERS PLANNER Boutonniere . . . . . Single flower for men worn on lapel Corsage . . . . . . . . . Single flower for women worn on wrist or pinned to breast Cascade . . . . . . . . . Blossoms & greenery in teardrop shape Hand tied . . . . . . . . Cut flowers tied with ribbon or fabric, carried Nosegay . . . . . . . . . Single flower or small bouquet, carried Pomander . . . . . . . Round bouquet on a cord usually for flower girls Spray . . . . . . . . . . . . Small bunch of gathered flowers, carried Toss Bouquet . . . . Bouquet or flower thrown to the bridesmaids & bachelorettes
SPRING
SUMMER
FALL
WINTER
YEAR ‘ROUND
Cherry Blossom Daffodil Dogwood Forsythia Hellebore Hyacinth Lilac Lily of the Valley Muscari Peony Quince Rose Sweet pea Tulip Viburnum
Anemone Astilbe Azalea Calla Lily Camellia Cosmos Daffodil Dahlia Daisy Delphinium French Tulip Hollyhock Hyacinth Hydrangea Jasmine Lady’s Mantle Larkspur Lilac Lily of the Valley Marigold Mimosa Pansy Peony Primrose Ranunculus Scabiosa Snapdragon Sweet Pea Tulip Violet Zinnia
Autumn Leaves Celosia (cockscomb) Chinese Lantern Chrysanthemum Crosnia Dahlia Hydrangea Seasonal Berries Statice Sunflower Yarrow
Amaryllis Anemone Casablanca Lily Evergreen Forced Bulbs Freesia Gerber Daisy Heather Narcissus Holly (ilex) Paper-white Poinsettia Rose Stephanotis
Baby’s breath Calla Lily Carnation Cattleman Chrysanthemum Daisy Freesia Gardenia Gerber daisy Gladiolus Iris Lily Orchid Protea Ranunculus Rose September Aster Snapdragon Stephanotis Tuberoses
In California, most summer flowers are also available in the fall.
DESCRIPTION Wedding Coordinator Cake Cutting Attendant Gift Table Attendant Guest Book Attendant Officiant Soloists Musicians Other
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WEDDING PARTY
DESCRIPTION Bride’s Bouquet Bride’s Toss Bouquet Bride’s Going-Away Corsage Maid/Matron of Honor’s Bouquet Bridesmaids’ Bouquets Flower Girl’s Bouquet or Basket Groom’s Boutonniere Best Man’s Boutonniere Groomsmen’s Boutonnieres Ushers’ Boutonnieres Ring Bearer’s Pillow Ring Bearer’s Boutonniere Mothers’ & Grandmothers’ Corsages Fathers’ & Grandfathers’ Boutonnieres
RECEPTION
CEREMONY
Other
DESCRIPTION Altar/Chuppah Candles & Holders Pew/Aisle Markers Other
DESCRIPTION Entryway Head Table Centerpiece Parents’ Table Centerpieces Guest Table Centerpieces Reception Room Flowers Cake & Cake Table Champagne/Punch Table Gift Table Guest Book Table Restroom Other Log on to premierbride.com for more wedding planning tools! THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER • P9
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MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT PLANNER
CEREMONY
Make song choices before your wedding day. Give a copy of these choices to your musicians and DJs so they can plan accordingly. Include those songs that you do not want to hear that day. Also think about who you want to emcee the event; inform the DJ of these assignments as well.
SONG/PERFORMED BY
START TIME
SONG/PERFORMED BY
START TIME
Prelude Processional Service Recessional Postlude Other Other
RECEPTION
Other
Cocktail Hour Arrival of Newlyweds Couple’s First Dance Bride & Father Dance Groom & Mother Dance Guests’ First Dance Dinner Cake Cutting Tossing the Bouquet Throwing the Garter Last Dance Other Other Other Other
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PORTRAITS
PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNER BRIDE ’S PHOTOS:
GROOM ’S PHOTOS:
Bride, full-length
Groom, full-length
Bride, back of dress
Groom with parents
Bride’s bouquet
Groom with mother & father separately
Bride with both parents
Groom with grandparents
Bride with mother & father separately
Groom with siblings
Bride with grandparents
Groom with best man
Bride with siblings
Groom with each groomsman
Bride with maid/matron-of-honor
Groom with all his attendants
Bride with each bridesmaid
Groom with bridesmaids
Bride with all her attendants
BRIDE & GROOM PHOTOS:
Bride with groomsmen
Bride & groom together
Bride with ring bearer, flower girl
Bride & groom with each set of parents Bride & groom with entire wedding party Close-up of couple’s hands displaying rings
PREWEDDING
Bride getting ready
RECEPTION
Signing the marriage certificate
Guests at cocktail party
Bride putting on veil Candid shots of bride preparing & relaxing Bride’s attendants getting ready Groom getting ready Groom’s attendants getting ready Front of ceremony location
Guests signing guest book Placecards Centerpieces, place settings & plated meals Favors Toasts
CEREMONY
Guests arriving & being seated
Musicians Attendants walking to enter ceremony Parents being seated Candids of parents’ expressions Attendants walking down the aisle Child attendants walking down the isle
Bride & Groom listening to toasts
Groom coming down the aisle
Group pictures & candids throughout reception
Clergy, groom & best man at altar
Musicians
Bride & father walking down aisle
Bride & Groom’s first dance
Father giving bride’s hand to groom
Bride & Father, Groom & Mother dance
Guests watching the ceremony
Guests dancing
Vow exchange
Cake, cake table & cake cutting
Ring ceremony
Couple feeding each other cake
Candids of bride’s/groom’s face
Bouquet toss Garter removal & toss
Unity candle ceremony, kiddush cup ceremony, etc.
Sweetheart dance
Signing of wedding certificate
Going-away vehicle (especially if decorated)
Groom kissing the bride
Bride & groom in going away clothes
Recessional
Newlyweds departing & guests’ farewell
Guests throwing rice, flower petals, etc.
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LOCATION
RECEPTION PLANNER DATES AVAILABLE
LOCATION
USED FOR
SIZE
Indoor
Small (<100)
Ceremony
Outdoor
Medium (100-250)
Reception
Same site as ceremony
Large (250+)
Dressing
Walking distance from ceremony
Overnight rooms
SITE SERVICES
Within ______ miles of ceremony site
SERVICES PROVIDED
RENTALS AVAILABLE
Rooms
Tables
Food
Chairs & chair covers
Beverage/Alcohol
China, glassware, silverware & serving dishes
Disabled access
Linens
Adequate parking Valet
Ratio of guests to servers: ___________
Coat check On-site wedding coordinator Staff to cut the cake
DECORATIONS
PROVIDED
STYLE
More than one event at a time
RECEPTION
BRINGING OWN DECORATIONS
Head table
What are decorating restrictions?
Guest tables Cake table Guest book table
When can decorations/favors come in?
COLOR SCHEME
SITE FEATURES
Old-world, ornate
Great entrance
Pastels
Modern
Chandeliers
Jewel tones
Formal
Marble
Neutral tones
Rustic
Piano
Bold/bright
Fun, funky
Balcony
Casual
Fabulous staircase
Intimate
Fireplace Hardwood floors Great view Stunning windows/window treatment Nice changing area/restrooms Dance floor meets my size requirements
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Bride as baby
Early days as a couple
Groom as baby
Bachelor/Bachelorette parties
Bride’s childhood
Other:
Groom’s childhood Wedding photo of bride’s parent’s Wedding photo of groom’s parent’s
Date: Time: Location: Special Requests:
RECEPTION
BRIDE DRESSING AT HOME
PHOTOS FOR SLIDESHOW
VIDEOGRAPHY PLANNER
Date: Time: Location: Guests arriving Announcing newlyweds & wedding party Toasts First dance
CEREMONY
Cake cutting ceremony Bouquet & garter ceremonies
Date:
Wedding wishes from individual guests
Time:
Guests dancing Guests dining tables
Location:
Bride & Groom saying good-byes & leaving
Guests arriving
Special Requests:
Wedding party preparing Ceremony Guests leaving
Special Requests:
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BRIDE
WEDDING ATTIRE DESCRIPTION
SIZE
Gown Headpiece Veil Lingerie (bra, bustier, slip, petticoat) Hosiery Garter Shoes Jewelry & Accessories Wrap, Jacket or Gloves
BRIDE’S ATTENDANTS
Other
DESCRIPTION
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
Gown Lingerie (bra, bustier, slip, petticoat) Hosiery Shoes Jewelry & Accessories Other
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DALLAS
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GROOM
DESCRIPTION
SIZE
Coat Shirt Vest Trousers Cummerbund Neckwear Cufflinks Socks & Shoes Other
GROOM’S ATTENDANTS
Other
DESCRIPTION
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
SIZE
NAME
NAME
NAME
NAME
Coat Shirt Vest Trousers Cummerbund Neckwear Cufflinks Socks & Shoes Other
Log on to premierbride.com for more wedding planning tools! THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER • P15 BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
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VENDORS
KEEPING TRACK PAYMENT INFORMATION NAME / PHONE
DATE
AMOUNT
BAL. DUE
Cake Catering Ceremony Site Flowers Formalwear Gown Hair/Makeup Music - Ceremony Music - Reception Officiant Photographer Reception Site Rental Transportation Videographer
WEDDING PARTY
Wedding Coordinator
NAME
PHONE
Bridesmaids
Groomsmen
Ushers
P16 • THE PREMIER BRIDE PLANNER Log on to premierbride.com for more wedding planning tools! H OU S TO N w w w.pbhou s ton.com
DALLAS
www. pbdalas. com
Copyright ©2011 Premier Bride and iWed, Inc.
AUS T I N www.p remierb rid e.com/a us tin
BR YA N - C O L LEG E STAT I O N w w w. prem ierbride. com /bryan
S AN AN TONI O www.p remierb rid e.com/s a na ntonio
april 3, 2011 • 10am To 6pm at the Galveston Island Convention Center 5600 Seawall Blvd. at 53rd, next to the San Luis Resort
TableScapeS FaShion Show Free honeymoon Giveaway Door prizeS anD more!
experience top wedding professionals from the Gulf coast. you’ll be transformed to your wedding day the minute you walk through the doors. Save the date for one of houston and Galveston’s top bridal shows.
ShowcaSe SponSorS
TickeTs on sale – $8 online – $10 aT The Door
www.premier weddingshowcase.com