Bridal Guide 2021

BEMIDJI

Weddings BEING A BRIDE DURING A PANDEMIC

Pioneer employees Jillian Gandsey and Hannah LaVigne share their wedding planning stories.

2 Saturday, February 27, 2021

BEMIDJI WEDDINGS

Bemidji Pioneer & BuyLine

BEMIDJI

Weddings in this issue...

4

BEING A BRIDE DURING A PANDEMIC

Pioneer employees Jillian Gandsey and Hannah LaVigne share their wedding planning stories.

8

PANDEMIC PRECAUTIONS

10

THE IMPORTANCE OF MUSIC Music is an important component of wedding celebrations. Ensuring the music played at your wedding reaches as many people as possible.

11

FOOD ALLERGIES

13

NEGOTIATING PRICES WITH WEDDING VENDORS

Keep your wedding guests safe with World Health Organization recommendations in mind as you organize your ceremony and reception during the pandemic.

Consider food allergies when planning the menu.

Take steps to ensure that guests with food allergies don’t go hungry.

Talking with prospective vendors can help you curtail the cost of your wedding.

9

12

14

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BOOKING A PHOTOGRAPHER Specific questions to ask before making your final decision on a photographer.

Advertiser Directory

SOCIAL MEDIA IN WEDDING PLANNING

HOW TO FIND YOUR WEDDING FLORIST

Useful ways to incorporate social media tools in your wedding planning. Social media tools to employ as you plan your wedding.

Talking with prospective vendors can help you curtail the cost of your wedding.

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On the cover: Sonny and Jillian (Gandsey) Johnson on the dock at Ruttger's Birchmont Lodge on their wedding day. Photo by Menique Koos Photography.

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Saturday, February 27, 2021 3

BEMIDJI WEDDINGS

4 Saturday, February 27, 2021

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BEING A BRIDE Story and

during a pandemic

Jillian Gandsey Hannah LaVigne by

Weddings are supposed to be fun, exciting and full of love. Planning the big day can be stressful, but trying to plan a wedding during a pandemic brings the stress to a whole new level. There aren’t enough books or blogs in the world to teach you how to plan a wedding during a global crisis.

We’re going to share two perspectives when it comes to planning or hosting a wedding during the pandemic. The Pioneer’s Hannah LaVigne is currently in planning mode, with a date set for Sept.

4, 2021, and Jillian Gandsey, married on Oct. 3, 2020, will share about her downsized mid-pandemic wedding.

HANNAH’S STORY In September when my fiance Calan proposed, I was filled with so much love, joy and excitement, but little did I know the rollercoaster of emotions

coming my way. I started planning about a month after the proposal. I tried calling and emailing venues locally and across the country, but every answer was the same — there was no guarantee of how many people I would be able to have and I most likely wouldn’t get my deposit back if the wedding wasn’t able to happen on the date I planned. It certainly wasn’t ideal so we decided to bring it home — literally.

JILLIAN’S STORY My husband Sonny and I were married on Oct. 3 and we were engaged for about a year and a half prior. We realized about halfway through last summer that there was not going to be the 150plus people we originally planned to have, so we decided to go with just our immediate family and a handful of close friends at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge. Fortunately, our venue and all of our vendors were really wonderful in working with us to downsize. The day was perfect.

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Saturday, February 27, 2021 5 HANNAH’S VENUE PLAN We decided the best plan for us is to have our wedding at my parents’ land. It was never my dream to get married there, but this way I would have the security of being able to have any type of wedding. ► We are renting a 40-by-60-foot white tent and table cloths from Northern Event Rentals in Bemidji along with tables and chairs. ► My fiance is building our trellis and his grandfather will build benches for our guests.

JILLIAN’S VENUE We were married at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge, which was our plan all along. The ceremony was on Lake Bemidji and our reception was in their ballroom. It was wonderful and the wedding crew at Ruttger’s added in so many perfect little touches to our day. They were also really great to work with in going from 150 guests to about 30.

Photo by Menique Koos Photography

Jillian (Gandsey) Johnson and Sonny Johnson on their wedding day, Oct. 3, 2020, in Lake Bemidji State Park.

HANNAH’S FOOD PLAN When it came to food we didn’t want to make any of our guests, even if it’s just a small amount of people, worry about food. We also want to support small businesses and catering companies, so plan to stay as local as possible when it comes to food. ► We will order plenty of food like pasta, different types of meats, salads and appetizers so that our guests can take some home if any is left over. ► My soon-to-be mother-in-law will make our cupcakes and we will have a professional cake made. We’re also having a coffee/tea bar for our

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guests who don’t want any alcoholic beverages throughout the day. ► There will be three different kegs of beer and multiple bottles of champagne and wine.

JILLIAN’S FOOD We were able to choose from different meals on the Ruttger’s banquet menu and the food was delicious and beautifully plated. ► We picked the plated dinners of Red Lake walleye or the chicken Minnesota. ► We had a local baker make assorted mini pies for our desserts and one big strawberry rhubarb pie for my husband and I. ► We had one keg and several bottles of wine that we had complimentary for our guests.

HANNAH’S DECORATIONS Wedding decorations can be expensive, so we decided to thrift or go the homemade route. Our colors are gold and sage green so we want to keep our decorations around that theme. We set out to find candle sticks and table runners at thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace. Our flowers will be arranged by a friend who is a florist for our bouquets, boutonnieres, as well as flowers for our tables. We found that finding a theme for your wedding really helps narrow down what your vision is for you and your partner.

JILLIAN’S DECORATIONS We had our flowers done by KD Floral and Garden and they did an extraordinary job. We created our

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BEMIDJI WEDDINGS own centerpieces using dried flowers and plants. My mother-in-law also helped a ton with signage and finding other small decor bits on Facebook Marketplace.

HANNAH’S PHOTOGRAPHY PLANS Usually when it comes to the photos and videos, couples have to prepare themselves for a huge bill.

We are lucky to have a close friend, Holden Law, who is a photographer and he has agreed to do our photos and video for a reduced price since we are such close friends. When it came to the photos and videos for my wedding I was willing to pay a little more than I would for just anything, because that is a day I will want to remember forever.

JILLIAN’S PHOTOGRAPHY I had my eye on a couple different photographers long before I was even engaged. We used Menique Koos Photography. She was out of Duluth at the time but recently moved to Colorado. She did a tremendous job and waived the second photographer fee when we downsized.

HANNAH’S DRESS I was very nervous when it came time to go dress shopping. It is a very emotional and physically draining process. I looked all over the state of Minnesota but one day, on a spontaneous trip to Formalities in Bemidji, I found my dress. As my experience went, I felt like it was all very safe and clean. All of the shops I went into made sure we were spaced out, people wore their masks and everything was sanitized.

JILLIAN’S DRESS I ordered my dress from Wear Your Love, a California-based company that custom makes your dress to your measurements. It was shipped to me two months later than expected due

Photo by Holden Law Aerial Photo & Video

Hannah LaVigne and Calan Renollet's wedding is set for Sept. 4, 2021.

Saturday, February 27, 2021 7 to the pandemic, but it fit perfectly so all was well.

HANNAH’S MUSIC For music, my sister is bringing in some sound equipment from our local church and my fiance and I made a Spotify playlist for her to play throughout the wedding. As for music for the ceremony, my sister will play the piano and sing, which we felt was more special to us.

JILLIAN’S MUSIC We hired local musicians to play the piano and cello during our ceremony. Then my husband created a Spotify playlist for our dinner and cocktail hours and another for the evening hours.

Trying to plan our two weddings was difficult but in the end, we both haven’t lost sight of what it’s all about — beginning a new chapter of our lives with the person we love the most.

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PANDEMIC

precautions

Happy couples planning to tie the knot in 2020 confronted a challenge they likely never saw coming. While many couples fear inclement weather on their wedding days, 2020’s prospective brides and grooms had to contend with something far more fearful than rain clouds.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus that began in the winter of 201920 and was ultimately declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization put many couples’ wedding plans in peril. In an effort to stop the spread of the virus and protect those most vulnerable to it, governments across the globe placed restrictions on social gatherings, including weddings. Those restrictions prompted some couples to postpone their nuptials until 2021, while others tied the knot at considerably smaller ceremonies than they initially planned for.

Couples planning to tie the knot in the months ahead can still do so, but the WHO recommends they take certain precautions as they organize their ceremonies and receptions.

► CONFIRM LOCAL REGULATIONS. Restrictions related to COVID-19 differ greatly by region. Areas that were not hit hard by the virus may not have as many restrictions in place as those that were devastated by the outbreak.

In addition, cities or regions whose responses to the virus have been successful may have relaxed restrictions more than areas that are still struggling. The WHO notes the importance of checking local guidelines prior to planning an event, and that’s especially important for couples who hope to get married in towns or cities where they do not currently reside. ► KEEP GUESTS UP TO DATE ABOUT PRECAUTIONS. Include detailed information about the safety measures that will be implemented during the wedding on your wedding website. Insert a card detailing this information into your invitation envelopes as well so all guests know what to expect when they accept the invitation. In addition, remind guests of the safety precautions throughout the ceremony.

► PROVIDE SANITARY SUPPLIES. Make sure hand sanitizer, soap, water, and masks are readily available for all guests. Social distance markers also can be placed on the ground throughout the venue to make it easy for guests to stay six feet apart from one another. ► CHOOSE AN OUTDOOR VENUE. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the COVID-19 virus spreads very easily through per-

son-to-person contact and that the risk of spreading the virus is greater when spending time indoors. Couples can mitigate some of that risk by tying the knot outdoors and then hosting an outdoor reception where tables are kept at least six feet apart.

Weddings will be different until the world puts COVID-19 in its rearview mirror. In the meantime, it’s up to happy couples to keep their guests safe come the big day.

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Saturday, February 27, 2021 9

QUESTIONS TO ASK

before booking a photographer

Various components combine to make weddings beautiful and memorable. Couples rely on photographers to capture the smiles and moments that helped make their events unique and to ensure the big day is remembered for years to come.

The trusted wedding resource The Knot notes that an internal study found that, among 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, an average of $2,400 was spent on a wedding photographer to document their big day.

Couples who want to find the best photographer for their wedding day can ask several questions before making their final decision.

WHAT STYLE DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN? Photographers may be able to shoot various styles of photos, but may specialize in a specific type. For example, some photographers specialize in photojournalism, while others may excel at portraiture. Going with a photographer who has the most expertise shooting the style you prefer will help produce the desired results.

WHO WILL BE SHOOTING MY WEDDING? Certain photography studios have several photographers working under one roof. Just because you meet with one does not necessarily mean that photographer will be on site, unless it is specified in the contract.

Have you ever worked at my venue before?

Photographers may be familiar with several local wedding venues and houses of worship. A photographer who has experience working in the locations where couples will tie the knot and subsequently celebrate might produce the best results, but lack of experience with particular venues need not exclude other professionals.

CAN WE SEE A FULL GALLERY OF A RECENT WEDDING? According to Brides magazine, unlike an album or a highlight gallery, a full gallery provides a better sense of a photographer’s style and attention to detail.

Will photos be color balanced and retouched?

Skilled photographers are capable of capturing winning photos. But photos can be enhanced further in the studio with retouching software to bring out specific effects. Some photographers will polish all proofs, while others only will work on the images ultimately ordered. Confirm retouching details before signing the contract.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PHOTO PACKAGES? A detailed price list helps you compare one photographer to another and decide which elements are covered.

Additional prints, having a photographer’s assistant, ordering albums for the parents, or ordering a large framed print can alter costs significantly.

Explore all prices to ensure you’re getting the best value. In addition, consider how many hours of event coverage are included in the price.

WHAT IS THE PAYMENT TIMELINE? Photographers may accept deposits for their services but expect a different timeline of payment. Some may require payment in full before the wedding, while others may offer a payment plan that includes a final payment when picking up proofs or albums.

Wedding photography is one of the essential elements of a wedding and helps tell the story of couples’ special day. Asking key questions can help couples find a photographer who will produce the desired results.

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THE IMPORTANCE

of music

Few things set the mood of a wedding more effectively than music. Beautiful songs often are incorporated into wedding ceremonies, and romantic or upbeat songs intermingle to create a festive mix at receptions.

Playlists curated specifically for weddings can be found online to help couples narrow down their options. According to Wedding Forward, a wedding planning guide, wedding planning experts and modern couples agree that wedding playlists should have a 60/40 split of classics and new wedding songs.

Music is a personal choice, but couples may benefit by considering who will be in attendance at their weddings.

In so doing, couples can ensure the music played at their weddings reaches as many people as possible there: ► WEDDING PROCESSIONAL SONG: The wedding processional is the moment the wedding party walks down the aisle.

Music may be a traditional hymn, classical music or a favorite contemporary song. ► BRIDAL PROCESSIONAL SONG: In many traditional wedding ceremonies, the bride walks down the aisle sepa-

Bemidji Pioneer & BuyLine rately, with her father or both parents. She customarily will have a different song from the rest of the wedding party. While “Bridal Chorus/Wedding March” is a traditional choice, some brides may prefer a different tune. ► WEDDING RECESSIONAL SONG: Again, depending on the ceremony location and choices, the recessional may be a classical piece or a hymn.

Some couples choose an upbeat song for their first official promenade as a married couple. ► WEDDING PARTY ENTRANCE SONG: Couples can ask their music vendor to put together the majority of the songs for their reception, but they may want to choose their own wedding party entrance. This song typically is a fast-paced, upbeat song that gets the crowd pumping and ready for a fun night. Think “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz or “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake. ► FIRST DANCE: The first dance song is another personal choice for the couple. Slow songs traditionally are chosen, but couples who want something a little different have increasingly selected faster songs and paired them with rehearsed choreography. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran has become a popular first dance song. ► OTHER SONGS: Couples also will select songs to complement dances with their parents, cake cutting, garter toss, and any other special traditions or moments. They also can make requests to include songs of different eras to appeal to guests of all ages.

Music is an important component of wedding celebrations and deserves some extra consideration to ensure everyone has a great time while cutting a rug.

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FOOD

allergies

Wedding guests will remember many aspects of the ceremony and reception. For guests who have food allergies or require specialized diets, dinner can be memorable for all of the wrong reasons. But it doesn’t have to be.

Even though weddings are all about the happy couple’s wants and needs, special attention should be placed on ensuring guests’ comfort. Individuals with allergies and dietary restrictions warrant extra caution. Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but eight types in particular, often referred to as the “Big 8,” are responsible for the greatest numbers of adverse reactions. Milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy comprise the Big 8. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Food Allergy Research and Resource Program says the Big 8 accounts for about 90 percent of all food allergies in the United States.

Couples need to recognize the likelihood that at least one person at the wedding will have a specialized food need. Most people with dietary restrictions will be very understanding that eating out is a

BEMIDJI WEDDINGS

Saturday, February 27, 2021 11

challenge, especially at a wedding. But couples can take steps to ensure that guests with food allergies don’t go hungry. ► ASK ABOUT ALLERGIES ON THE RESPONSE CARD. Some couples request that guests choose their food preferences on their RSVPs. Include a spot where guests can mention serious food allergies. ► CHOOSE A CATERER VERY CAREFULLY. Caterers are increasingly adapting to common food restrictions. Express specific food avoidances or what you want to be included and find a caterer who specializes in this type of cooking. ► OFFER ALLERGEN-FREE APPETIZERS. Martha Stewart Weddings suggests serving customized bite-sized hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour to allow for easier customization. This gives guests with allergies the ability to pick and choose their pre-entrée bites. ► LABEL FOODS AND LET GUESTS WITH SEVERE ALLERGIES DINE FIRST. Buffets should be clearly labeled so those with allergies can avoid certain foods. Also, those with severe food allergies should have first shot at the buffet to limit cross-contamination from serving utensils. ► CREATE SEPARATE MEALS. A caterer may be able to make separate meals for certain guests, particularly if they have advanced notice. ► DON’T FORGET DESSERTS AND DRINKS. Allergens can be included in drinks and desserts as well. Offer gluten-free desserts and gluten-free beer as well.

Dietary restrictions are another factor that couples must consider when planning their weddings.

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SOCIAL

media

Since its inception decades ago, social media has changed the world. As the popularity of social media exploded in the early part of the 21st century, various platforms emerged and ultimately affected movements pertaining to everything from politics to social justice to charitable efforts.

Social media also has emerged as a great tool for couples on the cusp of getting married. The following are some useful ways that couples can employ social media into their wedding planning. ► CREATE YOUR OWN HASHTAG. A couplespecific hashtag can be a great and simple way to share information on Twitter, which remains one of the most popular social media platforms across the globe. Your own hashtag can alert friends and family who are on Twitter whenever you post new information and photos. ► SHARE A PHOTO ALBUM ONLINE. Photographers serve as something akin to unofficial documentarians on couples’ wedding days. Many photographers are there from the moment the bride begins to get ready until the last person leaves the dance floor at the end of the night. Many couples love leafing through their wedding albums for the rest of their lives together, but guests also may enjoy reliving the night. The photo sharing social media platform Instagram is a great way for couples and their guests to relive the special moment a couple ties the knot and all the ensuing fun at the reception. Create a wedding-specific Instagram page and post all the photos you want to share. ► INCLUDE GUESTS WHO COULD NOT ATTEND THE FESTIVITIES. No matter how hard couples may try to pick a date that’s convenient for all of their guests, some invitees will inevitably decline the invitation. That’s especially true while the world continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.

Elderly guests or loved ones with underlying medical conditions that make them more vulnerable to getting seriously ill from COVID-19 may be forced to reluctantly decline their invitations. But couples can utilize social media platforms like Facebook Live to include loved ones who couldn’t make it in real time. ► ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO PITCH IN WITH THE PLANNING. Planning a wedding should be fun, and what better way to add to the fun factor than encouraging loved ones to share their ideas via a social media platform like Pinterest? Couples can create a Pinterest board and ask interested friends and family members to share ideas on everything from attire to decor to floral arrangements. This can be an especially effective way to involve bridesmaids and groomsmen if social distancing guidelines and travel restrictions related to the pandemic are still in place when planning your wedding.

Social media has changed the world, and it also has changed how couples plan their weddings.

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Saturday, February 27, 2021 13

NEGOTIATING PRICES

with wedding vendors

A couple’s wedding day is likely to be the most expensive party they ever host. The average cost of a wedding is $33,931, according to The Knot’s 2019 Real Wedding Study. However that final cost can vary widely depending on where the wedding is held. In fact, in 2019, New Jersey was the most expensive state for getting hitched, at an average cost of $53,400, followed closely by Rhode Island at $49,800. The average cost of a Canadian wedding, according to the lifestyle resource Slice, is around $31,000.

Engaging in a dialogue with prospective vendors can help couples curtail the cost of their weddings.

That’s especially so during the pandemic, as so many businesses have faced financial uncertainty due to the global pandemic. Vendors who already have been operating under less-than-ideal circumstances may be more flexible with their pricing schedules. Then again, struggling businesses may have to increase prices to cover losses. Negotiation

may be necessary as couples look to get married without breaking the bank.

BE OPEN AND HONEST Negotiating with vendors should not be mistaken for aggressive haggling as one might do at a garage sale or auction. Rather, it’s more about having a discussion about what can be modified to work with the budget. A vendor may not be able to dramatically drop his price, but may be accommodating in another respect. For example, florists may be able to throw in an extra floral arrangement or a DJ may agree to stick around for an extra hour at no additional cost.

BE GRACIOUS Letting a vendor know you’re a fan of their work or have received glowing recommendations from past customers may make them more inclined to

work with you if the budget doesn’t quite align with the pricing.

FIND WORK-AROUNDS Even if the price seems out of reach, there are ways to negotiate with vendors to get things close and where all parties are in agreement. For example, a florist may be able to make suggestions on another type of bloom that looks similar to the desired flower but at a fraction of the cost.

Vendors may be willing to discount some costs if the couple handles some of the work themselves, such as picking up and delivering materials to the reception or ceremony sites or handling alterations.

Couples should speak freely with wedding vendors and discuss what they can spend after some careful research in regard to what standard services and products cost.

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HOW TO FIND YOUR

wedding florist

Weddings join the lives of two loving individuals so they can share their future with one another. Various elements help make weddings both momentous and magical.

Some weddings adhere to themes that are designed to make an impression and showcase couples’ personalities. Floral arrangements are key components of wedding themes, as they help to establish ambiance at both the ceremony and reception.

Flowers can easily help couples achieve a desired vibe, whether that’s rustic, romantic, modern, or even whimsical. Skilled florists may use a variety of flowers and foliage, as well as dramatic displays to help create the couple’s wedding day vision.

According to an internal study from the wedding advice and planning resource The Knot, which surveyed more than 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, the average cost of wedding flowers was $2,000 in 2019.

However, the cost of floral arrangements can vary depending on the scope of the arrangements and choice of flowers, including whether they’re in season or not.

It is essential for couples to spend time vetting potential florists to find one who will produce their desired vision at a price that fits their budget. These guidelines can make the process go more smoothly. ► ESTABLISH YOUR THEME EARLY ON. Floral arrangements will complement and enhance other elements of the wedding, including color scheme and the wedding theme.

If your wedding theme ties into a specific season, you will work with the florist to find blooms and other pieces that coordinate. For example, winter weddings with white, ice blue and silver color schemes may coor-

dinate with white ranunculus flowers, dahlias, dusty miller foliage, and viburnum berries. ► BRING SWATCHES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO CONSULTATIONS. It is easier to explain color palettes to a florist with examples in hand. Show the florist the types of arrangements you prefer and have actual fabric swatches from bridesmaid gowns or groomsmen vests so that colors can be complemented. ► CREATE A LIST OF DESIRED ITEMS. Florists may sell items a la carte or have packages of common floral pieces for wedding celebrations. Types of floral arrangements include bridal bouquet, bridesmaids’ bouquets, maid of honor bouquet, corsages for mothers/grandmothers, boutonnieres for groomsmen and fathers/grandfathers, flower girl headpiece, petals to sprinkle, table centerpieces, altar arrangements, pew or chair decorations, and cake decorations. ► GO EASY ON AROMA. Tread lightly when selecting blooms that have strong aromas. They may be beautiful, but many people are sensitive to smells. Allergies also may be exacerbated by flowers with strong aromas. Discuss options with the florist before proceeding. ► EXPLAIN YOUR BUDGET. Research the average cost of floral arrangements and let the florist know what you can afford. This can help the florist narrow down options or make substitutions that fit your theme and your budget.

Couples can take certain steps as they choose floral arrangements for their weddings. Cost should not be the only factor in the decision, even though it is an important one.

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BEMIDJI WEDDINGS

Bemidji Pioneer & BuyLine

Saturday, February 27, 2021 15

BEMIDJI

Weddings

planning checklist 6 TO 12 MONTHS BEFORE

• Select a wedding date and time.

• Make a preliminary budget.

• Determine the type of wedding you want.

• Determine the size of the guest list.

• Reserve your ceremony and reception location.

• Determine who will officiate ceremony.

• Hire a wedding consultant, if you plan to use one.

• Decide on your color scheme.

• Determine your wedding theme or style.

• Start compiling names and addresses of guests.

• Select bridal attendants.

• Have fiancé select attendants.

• Plan reception.

• Check catering facilities if at a club or hotel.

• Select a caterer, if one is necessary.

• Select music, entertainment and DJ for reception.

• Select a professional photographer.

• Select a reliable, creative florist.

• Select your dress and headpiece.

• Announce engagement in the newspaper.

• Select bridesmaids’ dresses.

4 MONTHS BEFORE

• Make final arrangements for ceremony

(deposits should be paid, contracts signed).

• Make sure all bridal attire is ordered.

• Have both mothers coordinate and select their dresses.

• Register at a bridal registry in the towns of both families.

• Order invitations and personal stationery.

• Complete the guest lists and compile them in order.

• Select the men’s wedding attire and reserve the right sizes.

• Check requirements for marriage license in your state.

• Shop for wedding rings.

• Start planning the honeymoon.

• Begin shopping for accessories.

2 WEEKS BEFORE

• Attend to business and legal details.

Get necessary forms to change names on Social Security card, driver’s license, insurance and medical plans, bank accounts; make a will.

• Prepare wedding announcements to be sent to the newspaper.

• Reconfirm accommodations for out-of-town guests.

• Finish addressing announcements to be mailed on the wedding day.

1 WEEK BEFORE

• Contact guests who have not responded.

• Give the final count to the caterer

and review details.

• Go over final details with all professional services you have engaged. Inform them of any changes.

• Give photographer the list of pictures you want.

• Give all musicians the lists of music for the ceremony and reception.

• Plan the seating arrangements.

• Arrange for someone to assist with last-minute errands and to help you dress.

• Practice having your hair done to make sure it comes out properly, and determine the time it will take.

• Practice using any makeup in the same lighting you will have on the wedding date.

• Keep up with your thank-you notes.

• Pack your suitcase for the honeymoon if leaving immediately after wedding.

• Make sure you have the marriage license.

• Make sure you have the wedding rings and they fit.

• Make sure all wedding attire is picked up and fits.

• Have a rehearsal with all participants, reviewing their duties.

• Attend rehearsal dinner party.

• Stay calm and enjoy yourself.

Here's a helpful checklist to keep you on track!

16 Saturday, February 27, 2021

BEMIDJI WEDDINGS

Bemidji Pioneer & BuyLine

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