Mountain & Lake Weddings - Fall/Winter 2026

VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 1

FALL / WINTER 2026 | FREE

MOUNTAIN & LAKE

Destination Weddings

LET US GUIDE YOU IN PLANNING A SPECIAL DAY WWW.MTNLAKEWEDDINGS.COM

MOUNTAIN & LAKE

Destination Weddings

2 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

FALL FOR YOUR DESTINATION MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDING There is no better place to celebrate a love that will last a lifetime than amidst the timeless mountains and lakes of Appalachia.

Nestled within expansive views and pastoral landscapes are rustic farms, intimate chapels, lodges, and resorts ideal for any gathering. No matter your taste or style, many of our destination venues offer all the conveniences of an indoor or outdoor affair with settings that promise an endless stream of filter-free photos to be shared and cherished for years to come.

Our community of warm and welcoming wedding planners works to ensure no detail, big or small, goes unnoticed. In their hands, you and your loved ones are free to enjoy the mountains’ magic as you make unforgettable memories.

We at Mountain and Lake Weddings share your excitement for all that lies ahead and are proud you have chosen our community to be a part of your planning process. n FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 3

EMILY & RYAN A Love Story Years in the Making

VENDORS This dream team made the magic happen — please give them a follow and some love: VENUE: Aerial Mountain Springs PHOTOGRAPHY: Xena Marie Photography (Xena O’Donnell) FLORALS: L&D Florist (Janet Kinsey) CATERING: Food Factory on Main (Luanne Cunningham) DJ / MUSIC: Phillip Kimbrell OFFICIANT: Pastor Phil Parks, Freedom Baptist Church (the groom’s grandfather) HAIR: Madison Wright, Renown Artistry (the groom’s cousin) MAKEUP: Caitlynn Emfinge (the bride’s best friend) BRIDAL GOWN: Victoria Grace MENSWEAR: Barry’s Menswear DAY-OF COORDINATION: Jessica Gunter

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Some love stories begin with a spark. Emily Hunt and Ryan Banks began with a lifetime. Sweethearts since High School, these two grew up side by side — and on April 12, 2026, they became husband and wife beside the shimmering lake at Aerial Mountain Springs.

Emily was a vision in a romantic off-the-shoulder lace gown from Victoria Grace, her waves styled by Madison Wright of Renown Artistry and makeup by Caitlynn Emfinger. Rather than a traditional first look, she and Ryan — dapper in his navy suit from Barry’s Menswear — stood back to back before our glowing stained glass doors and read private vows meant for no one but each other. It was breathless, tender, pure magic. With Ryan’s grandfather, Pastor Phil Parks, officiating, they later met at the end of the aisle beneath our arbor, the lake glittering behind them.

Inside our semi-open-air venue, the celebration unfolded in a palette of dusty blue and sage green with warm gold accents. Crisp white linens, gauzy runners, gold flatware, and rustic wood-slice centerpieces set each table, while lush garden florals from L&D Florist — blue hydrangea, coral snapdragons, and butteryellow ranunculus — brought every corner to life. www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

CLARKESVILLE Guests gathered around a lakeside buffet catered by Food Factory on Main before dancing the night away to music by Phillip Kimbrell.

But what will stay with us long after this day is the love that surrounded this couple. Just days before the wedding, the father of the bride underwent emergency surgery — yet you would never have known it. Both families rose to the moment with a grace and joy that moved our entire team to tears, letting nothing dim the day’s sparkle. The most beautiful weddings, after all, are the ones held up by love.

That same spirit showed up in the details, too. The stunning ceremony florals were lovingly handmade by Emily’s mom — and rather than keep them, the couple gifted them to us to pay forward to a future bride. It’s the kind of quiet, giving gesture that told us everything about who Emily, Ryan and their families are.

Weddings like this — captured so beautifully by Xena Marie Photography — are exactly why we do what we do. If you’re dreaming of a day that feels wholly, unforgettably yours, we’d love to help you write your own happily ever after beside the water at Aerial Mountain Springs. n

Where celebrations become traditions and AMS becomes your home for the weekend & beyond.

LODGING FOR 22 GUESTS AerialMountainSprings.com 762-239-8733 @AerialMountainSprings 106 Ben T Huiet Hwy • Clarkesville, GA FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 5

DAHLONEGA Ivy’s Gifts from the Vine Custom Gift Baskets, Floral Arts, & Home Decor

The only bridal guide in the Appalachian Mountain area with unique editorials, checklists, and tips to plan your special day. www.MtnLakeWeddings.com

678.935.6725 IvysGiftsFromTheVine.net

NEW ADDRESS: 995A Morrison Moore Pkwy W • Dahlonega, GA Suite A – Ivy’s Gifts • Suite B – Carriage Formal Wear

CARRIAGE FORMAL WEAR Formalwear For The Best Dressed

BE A PART OF OUR SPRING ISSUE:

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MARCH 8, 2027

Bridal Dresses for purchase

678.935.6725 / CarriageFormalwear.com

CONNECT WITH US

@mtnlakeweddings

MODERN RULES OF

Engagement

6 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

SAUTEE

De r Crossing Lodge Weddings

Less than 4 miles from Helen, GA Accommodates 200+ guests Chef’s kitchen w/ double fridge & oven Sleeps 24, 4.5 bathrooms Table & Chair Rentals Contacts for Catering, Photography, & More!

Tanglewood Cabins 706.878.3286

3387 HWY 356 Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571

The times are always changing, and the betrothed are changing with them.

A new generation of couples is stepping up to the officiant with a vow and a new set of rules.

Gone are the days of living at home until you’re married, of saving money for an immediate honeymoon, of large-purchase bridal registries to create a home, and of following old rules for the sake of those old rules alone.

Here are a few new rules of engagement that are being implemented by those getting ready for their nuptials for the first time or the last time, young or old.

NO RING, NO PROBLEM Before investing three months of salary into a showstopper of a ring, couples are opting FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

for picking something that means more to them, fits within their budget more easily, and that they are both enthusiastic about. It’s not just the bride’s big day anymore.

CASH IS KING Bridal registries and honeymoons aren’t as big a deal as they once were. Instead, cash is becoming the king of the ask. Whether the couple intends to put that dollar signs towards a vacation or a house, more and more are opting for fun money to make memories.

BOUNDARIES, UNPLUGGED We live in a time of influencers and powerful pocket computers, and not everyone wants to celebrate their upcoming matrimony with cameras in their faces or pretend perfection.

Setting privacy boundaries and staying authentic are IN! n MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 7

WELCOME

Print | Digital | Mobile | Social NEXT DEADLINE:

Monday, March 8

SPRING/SUMMER 2027

NEED ADVERTISING INFORMATION? Kathleen 706-896-2412 Toll-Free 888-896-2412 Email: info@mtnlakeweddings.com Online: mtnlakeweddings.com

CONGRATULATIONS

@mtnlakeweddings

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Mountain & Lake Weddings is published by Mountain Lake Publishing, Inc. ©2025. Reproduction of any photographs artwork or copy prepared by MLP, Inc. is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the publisher. All Vendors advertised are independent businesses and are not affiliated nor owned by MLP, Inc. MLP, Inc. is not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographical errors.

Welcome to the Fall Edition of Mountain & Lake Weddings.

This special magazine invites you to plan your special day in the beautiful communities of North Georgia, Western North Carolina, and surrounding areas. We feature many articles to inspire and help you plan a spectacular and unique event.

You’re invited to explore our community of professionals in the pages of Mountain & Lake Weddings of planners, venues, photographers, florists, jewelers, formal wear, & transportation to help you plan your special day. Be sure to look throughout the magazine for articles and in the back of the book for checklists in preparing for your event. Visit our website www.MtnLakeWeddings.com or follow us on social media, for inspiring ideas, tips, and more about our wonderful area.

Many thanks to the most talented group of advertisers, as this would not have been possible without all of your gracious help and enthusiasm. You are all brilliant inspiration in helping couples fulfill their dreams of the perfect day!!

Please be sure to inform each wedding professional you contact that you found them in the Mountain & Lake Weddings.

Blessings & Best Wishes for a Happy Life!!

Kathleen Painter Publisher www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

TOPTON, NC Authentic, Rustic Weekend Wedding Getaway

• 22 acres in National Forest.

• Access to Lake Nantahala & waterfalls.

• 6 suites, 2 kitchens, relaxing front porch, firepit areas, & hiking trails.

828-321-3249 • glenchogalodge.com • 50 Choga Lodge Road • Topton, NC

F A L L C O L O R

FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

2 0 2 6 P A L E T T E

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 9

She said yes...

LET THE PLANNING BEGIN

Bachelorette Checklist 3+ MONTHS OUT

o Choose party dates o Finalize party location o Invite all party guests o Decide travel logistics o Book your flight o Remind your guests to book travel

3 MONTHS OUT

o Finalize your guest list o Start your group chat o Agree on a budget o Customize your itinerary o Vote on the party hashtag o Reserve & share accommodations o Create expenses plan 10 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

2 MONTHS OUT

o Book your group activity o Order your custom swag o Choose bachelorette games o Create a packing list including any gifts or party needs

1 MONTH OUT

o Finalize your itinerary o Book all dinner reservations o Finalize party games o Remind guests of the packing list

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

BLUE RIDGE, GA / MURPHY, NC

Happily Ever After...

You’re invited...

TO LET US TAKE THE GUESS WORK OUT OF YOUR WEDDING PLANNING NEEDS. Murphy 828.837.1999 Next to Capt D’s on Hwy 64

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MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 11

Wedding History

DID YOU KNOW...

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www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

BLAIRSVILLE

TYING THE KNOT Knots are a symbol of unity across many cultures and are used in ceremonies across the globe to represent unity.

“Tying the knot” comes from a wedding tradition known as “handfasting”- an ancient Celtic custom where couples hold hands while a witness binds them together with ribbon or cord.

While this custom is typically a part of the Irish, Scottish, and Norse traditions, there is also an African-American tradition that stems from an African ritual where the to-be-wed wrists are bound together while saying their vows, culminating in the officiant tying a knot in the bindings, completing their commitment to each other.

FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

JUMPING THE BROOM Jumping the broom is a predominantly black wedding tradition that solidifies the couple’s union. This particular tradition is exactly what it says it is: at the culmination of the wedding ceremony, a broom is placed on the floor at the end of the aisle, and the couple jumps over it, thereby pronouncing their marriage.

This custom may seem silly, but it is rooted in deeply held beliefs of sweeping away evil, past loves and losses, and versions of the old you that are not along for this new journey. You are now jumping into the future with your new partner, new life, and new household. n MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 13

WELCOMING

Wedding Whimsy

14 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

BLUE RIDGE

Weddings are indeed a serious day.

And they are also joyous and silly and full of love and laughter.

2026 is leaving behind the stoic, supermodel vibes of vows and embracing wedding whimsy Couples are choosing materials, patterns, entertainment, foods, and pre/post ceremony events that bring the playful, joyful expression of love and support that a wedding entails.

CRAZY PATTERNS Solid colors, while beautiful in their own right, have nothing on crazy patterns and palettes that speak to the couple’s personality. We’re moving beyond casual Friday, fun socks, and into fullFALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

blown whimsical geometry in decor and formal wear.

AFTER SCHOOL, OLD SCHOOL Couples are choosing to embrace their inner childhood and are bringing games, music, crafts, and food to their nuptials to either recreate where they first fell in love or share their favorite things with their new love.

GO BIG… BIGGER Layers upon layers upon layers are what’s making literal waves this wedding season. Lush blankets, velvety swags, boulderous bean bags and cushions are making their way in for cozy after-ceremony cocktails and dining delights. n MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 15

CORNELIA

Registry BRIDAL

DINNERWARE: o Butter Dish o Cake Plate o Dinner Plates o Salad Plates o Bread Plates o Soup Bowls o Cereal Bowls o Cup & Saucers o Coffee Mugs o Platters o Serving Bowls o Salt & Pepper o Cream & Sugar o Teapot GLASSWARE: o Water Goblets o Red Wine Goblets o White Wine Goblets o Champagne Flutes o HighBalls o Cordials o Ice Bucket/ Tongs o Punch Bowl FLATWARE: o Knives o Dinner Forks o Salad Forks o Soup Spoons o Spoons o Tea Spoons CRYSTAL: o Pitcher o Bowl o Candlesticks o Vase

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COOKWARE: o Cookware Set o Casserole o Double Boiler o Dutch Oven o Fry/Omelet Pan o 10” Skillet o 12” Skillet o Roasting Pan o Saute Pan o Stock Pot o Tea Kettle BAKEWARE: o Angel Food Cake Pan o Bowl Set o Bundt Pan o Casserole Dish o Cookie Sheet o Loaf Pans o Open Roaster o Measuring Cups o Measuring Spoons o Muffin Pan o Pie Plate o Pizza Pan o Quiche Dish o Spring Form Pan o Tart Pan CUTLERY: o Boning Knife o Bread Knife o Butcher Knife o Cleaver Knife o Kitchen Shears o Paring Knife o Potato Peeler o Steak Knife Set

KITCHEN APPLIANCES: o Blender o Bread Machine o Can Opener o Coffee Maker o Coffee Mill o Deep Fryer o Food Processor o Fondue o Hand Mixer o Iced Tea o Microwave o Popcorn Popper o Rice Cooker o Stand Mixer o Toaster o Toaster Oven o Waffle Iron KITCHEN EXTRAS: o Bottle Opener o Canister Set o Can Opener o Coasters o Collander o Cutting Board o Flour Sifter o Grater o Meat Thermometer o Pastry Brush o Pizza Cutter o Rolling Pin o Spatulas o Tongs o Trivets o Whisks LAUNDRY: o Iron & roning Board o Laundry Basket o Steamer

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

CORNELIA truly unique, every time never a repeat design

Since 1944, we have provided clients in the greater Cornelia a large selection of flower arrangements that are catered to suit their specific requests.

706-778-7131

corneliafloristandgifts.com 128 Apple Tree Alley Cornelia, GA

M, T, Th, Fr 9am-5pm Wed & Sat 9am-12pm Voted Best Florist in Habersham 2024 & 2025!

W I N T E R C O L O R

FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

2 0 2 6

P A L E T T E

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 17

Honeymoon CHECKLIST ROMANTIC EXTRAS o Tealight candles (if the hotel/resort permits them) o Massage oils/essential oils o Lingerie o A honeymoon playlist with special songs o Small gifts for each other o A journal to write down your memories CARRY-ON o Passport/driver’s license o Credit cards: Did you call your bank to say you’ll be traveling overseas? o Cash o Copies of all crucial travel documents o Travel insurance documents o Emergency contact information o Prescription medications and a copy of the prescription o At least one change of clothes o Basic toiletries (face wash, toothbrush/ toothpaste, deodorant) o Cell phone and charger o E-reader and charger, or books and magazines o A quality camera o Wedding thank-you notes CLOTHING For him: o Button-down shirts o Tie o Blazer or sport coat o One pair of dressy pants o Dressy (but still comfortable) shoes For her: o At least one dressy outfit for dining with matching sweater/shawl o At least one nice top o Nice pants or capris o One pair of heels or dressy flats For you both: o T-shirts o Shorts o 1-2 bathing suits o Pajamas/sleepwear

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o Socks o Underwear o At least one sweatshirt or light jacket o Rain jacket o Cold-weather outerwear, if needed o One pair flip-flops or sandals o One pair walking shoes o Sunglasses o Prescription or reading glasses o Hat

GEAR, SAFETY, TOILETRIES o Backpack or beach bag for excursions o Power outlet adapter, if you’re traveling abroad o Sunblock and sunburn treatment o SPF 15 lip balm o Insect repellent o Face and body lotion o Deodorant o Perfume o Ear plugs o Comb and brush o Hair products o Shower cap o Toothbrush & toothpaste o Mouthwash o Contact lenses & solution o Makeup o Sanitary pads or tampons o Floss o Razor o Nail file and clippers o Tweezers o Small first aid kit with Band-Aids and antibiotic ointment o Baby wipes for quick cleanup o Travel packs of tissues o Pain reliever o Cold medication o Anti-diarrhea/nausea medication o Sleep aid o Hand sanitizer o Travel clothesline o Small flashlight o Pocketknife or multi-tool (stash this in your checked luggage)

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

CLEVELAND

Like Us... @mtnlakeweddings

A Home Town Florist for over 24 years, known for Refreshingly Different Floral Arrangements.

Voted BEST Florist in White Co.

706-896-2412

mtnlakeweddings.com FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

(706) 348-1297 • clevelandflorist.net 257 S Main St • Cleveland, GA

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 19

Flower OPTIONS

SEASONAL

20 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

YOUNG HARRIS

20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE bmccphotography@gmail.com @brittanymcconnellphotography

@bmccphotography

For Fall

For Winter

AMARANTHUS Ability to cascade & add shape to your arrangements.

CAMELLIAS A cross between ranunculus, peony, & gardenias. October-May

PAMPAS GRASS Soft, neutral-colored grass used to add wow factor to any type of arrangement.

HELLBORE Available in shades of ivory, red, purple, and pink.

CALLA LILLY Long-petaled, basal leaves are great for use in boutonnieres.

ROSES The most infamous in the flower world.

Available year around in various shades.

CHRYSANTHEMUM In bloom during the autumn season; ideal for rustic or casual wedding themes.

AMARYLLIS Typically available in red & white, but also available in shades of pink & orange.

SUCCULENTS Trendy to have as house plants, and now popular as wedding flowers.

RANUNCULUS Rose-like blossoms with tissue-thin petals in a variety of colors.

DIANTHUS Beautiful flowers and wonderful fragrances.

GARDENIA Fragrant & eye-catching.

SUNFLOWERS Bright & cheery. Peak blooming season is late summer into early fall.

ANEMONIES Recognizable by their dramatic black center & with petals of white, purple, or red. n

DAHLIAS From soft blush, cream to bright yellows, marmalades, & burgundy.

FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

POINSETTIAS Quintessential Christmas flower. OctoberDecember

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 21

Entertainment

2026

TRENDS

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www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

Weddings are, literally, a whole vibe guided by the pre- and post-entertainment. Whether it’s a cocktail hour, a photo op, or a reception to wow, 2026 couples are opting for entertainment trends that are changing the wedding game.

INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE Couples are curating an experience for their guests, not just a wedding for themselves. From interactive art installations and interchangeable photo backdrops, to bloom bars and full-concept environments. A popular theme for 2026 is a moving background of photos and videos of the couple through the stages of their relationship. The narrative of the wedding isn’t just the couple’s anymore; it belongs to all who attend.

MUSICAL HYBRIDS One-and-done wedding artists are out, and hybrid DJ’s and live musicians are in. Having a DJ work hand-in-hand with a live musical artist to curate a unique playlist and reception sound is cooler than vinyl. And, speaking of vinyl, there’s the bonus of guest gifts that include the soundtrack to their wedding bliss!

CLUB WED High-energy after-parties are spiking. Hyperfocused lighting, heavy bass, surprise performers, artistic acts, vaudeville productions, and hours of dancing are keeping the love alive after the I do’s.

LIVE ARTISTS Sketch artists aren’t just for courtrooms and Saturday sidewalks anymore. Couples are including painters, digital artists, sketch artists, and other hands-on creatives to capture their moments in real time.

Whether they are painting the ceremony, the reception, or even the photography in action, live artists are bringing immediate entertainment and awe to wedding celebrations. Plus, custom art in real time! n FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 23

Modern Wedding

HEIRLOOM-INSPIRED

NOSTALGIA

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www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER 2026

Something old.

Something new.

Something borrowed.

Something blue…

This famous Victorian rhyme is believed to bring luck to the bride. Something new represents optimism for her future.

Something borrowed is a token of good fortune. Something blue represents fidelity. And something old… well, there’s a whole new meaning to that this year.

From daughters wearing their mother’s wedding dresses and sons passing down their grandmother’s rings – heirloominspired wedding traditions aren’t all that uncommon. And yet, 2026 couples have figured out how to spin it into something modern and nostalgic.

COPY CAKE Vintage cake decorating has been the most requested design for 2026, and now we’re seeing an uptick in requests to revise the typical piping of vintage cakes and instead mimic the baroque bakes of our family members who married before us. It’s not just a vintage touch; it’s a replication of cakes long gone- an homage to parents or grandparents and their decadent taste.

HOMETOWN VENUES We grow up, and we move away; that doesn’t mean we don’t have to come back for a good time. Couples are opting for destination weddings in their hometowns to nestle up to the nostalgia of their old life before launching into their new one.

UNFORGETABLE FARE Sometimes it’s not about revisiting your childhood stomping grounds or reinventing your family’s wedding cakes… sometimes, it’s about catering to the tastes, helping you remember why receptions are all the rage. 2026 is seeing a return to the menu of couples’ childhoods or early relationships.

This modern wedding nostalgia is all about staying connected to the things you loved from the past while bringing them with you into the future. n FALL / WINTER 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 25

BRIDE’S CHECKLIST 6-12 MONTHS AHEAD o Announce your engagement o Set the wedding date and send “Save the Date” cards o Create a wedding budget o Determine your wedding style - formal or informal, big or small o Decide on the number of guests you will invite o Have your family and the groom’s family prepare their invitation lists o Hire a wedding consultant, if desired o Decide who will perform the ceremony o Choose a location for the ceremony and reception o Choose your attendants o Start shopping for your dress and accessories o Start looking for a caterer, florist, DJ or band, photographer and videographer o If you are getting married in a church or synagogue, meet with the officiant to discuss the ceremony and to arrange pre-marital counseling, if required.

4-6 MONTHS AHEAD o Order the invitations, announcements, programs, and thank-you cards o Book calligrapher for the invitations, if using one o Select and order Bridesmaids’ dresses and shoes o Urge your mother and future mother-in-law to shop for their dresses o Decide what the groom and his attendants will wear o Register for gifts o Plan your honeymoon and make reservations o Purchase wedding rings o Buy stockings and special lingerie that your dress requires o Choose reception favors o Choose gifts for attendants and your groom o Make a hotel reservation for your wedding night o Make hotel reservations for your out of town guests o Book hairstylist and makeup artist for your wedding o Take dance lessons 2-4 MONTHS AHEAD o Meet with caterer and decide menu o Attend cake tasting and decide on wedding cake and groom’s cake o Discuss service with the officiant o Choose readings and music for ceremony o Write your wedding vows, if you choose o Schedule your rehearsal time and dinner o Make arrangements for rehearsal dinner o Have your first dress fitting o Mail invitations 1-2 MONTHS AHEAD o Write thank you notes as gifts arrive o Make arrangements for transportation for the two of you from the wedding site to the reception o Buy a guest book and select someone to preside over it at the reception o Have programs printed o Obtain marriage license and request certified copies o If you intend to change your name, prepare the necessary documents o Have trial run with hairstylist and makeup artist, with veil and accessories o Set wedding day appointments with your stylist and manicurist o Send change of address information to the post office, if necessary

26 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER. 2026

BRIDE’S CHECKLIST o Have your final dress fitting with your alterations o Send wedding announcement to the local newspaper 2-3 WEEKS AHEAD o Have final dress fitting with accessories and lingerie o Draw up seating plan for the reception and make card for the head table if necessary o Notify caterer of guest count o Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception o Address announcements o Break in wedding shoes at home o Confirm your honeymoon travel arrangements o Designate someone to look after your home and pets while on your honeymoon o Confirm accommodations for out of town guests.

1 WEEK AHEAD o Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception o Go over final details with the reception site coordinator, florist, cake baker, DJ or band, photographer and videographer o Be sure that the attendants have everything they need for the wedding such as jewelry, shoes, and stockings o Finalize reception seating plan, if necessary o Pick up wedding dress o Confirm details with caterer o Assign specific responsibilities, such as handing out corsages and boutonnieres, to members of your wedding party o Pack for honeymoon o Make sure that attendants know what time to be at the rehearsal and ceremony 1 DAY AHEAD o Write checks to all vendors, put in envelope, and give to your Maid of Honor or Best Man to pass out o Pack everything that you will need for the ceremony o Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding o Make arrangements with the Best Man to return all tuxedo rentals o Have manicure and pedicure o Rehearse ceremony o Hold rehearsal dinner and give gifts to attendants and parents to show your appreciation for their support, if you desire THE WEDDING DAY o Eat something for breakfast - this will be a long day ahead o Give your Maid of Honor and Best Man the wedding bands o See your hair stylist and makeup artist for final preparations o Gather your dress and accessories and head to the ceremony o GET MARRIED! NOTES __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________

FALL / WINTER. 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 27

GROOM’S CHECKLIST 6 MONTHS o Decide division of financial obligations o Set budget o Set appointment with clergyman o Prepare your guest list o Choose your Best Man and ushers (one per every 50 guests) o Plan your honeymoon o Check passports and visas, if necessary o Make reservations for rehearsal dinner o Take dance lessons 4 MONTHS o Select formal wear o Find a new place to live, if necessary o Make reservations for honeymoon o Shop for honeymoon clothing 2 MONTHS o Buy wedding bands and order engraving o Set date with your fiancé to obtain marriage license (state laws vary as to the length a license is valid) 1 MONTH o Select your bride’s gift and gifts for your groomsmen o Review legal, medical, and church or synagogue documents o Reserve limousine and/or arrange special transportation for bridal couple and wedding party o Confirm honeymoon details and reservations 2 WEEKS o Arrange to move your belongings into your new home, if necessary o Have bachelor party or dinner o Schedule hair appointment 1 WEEK o Confirm time and place of wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner with all attendants o Provide final guest count for rehearsal dinner to caterer or restaurant o Pick up wedding bands o Pick up formal wear o Give best man the clergyman’s fee in sealed envelope for delivery o Pack for honeymoon o Relax and get ready to enjoy the most amazing day of your life!

NOTES __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________

28 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER. 2026

BUDGET PLANNER Total budget of

$ __________________

% OF BUDGET

ACTUAL FEE

Favors

1%

____________________

Transportation

2%

____________________

Wedding Cake

2%

____________________

Ceremony Music

2%

____________________

Invitations and Announcements

2%

____________________

Hair and Make-up for bride, bridal party

2%

____________________

Groom’s formalwear

2%

____________________

Reception Music

4%

____________________

Videographer

4%

____________________

Wedding Dress

5%

____________________

Rehearsal dinner

6%

____________________

Flowers

6%

____________________

Photography

6%

____________________

Wedding rings

7%

____________________

Wedding Coordinator & Insurance

8%

____________________

Wedding Venue &/or Reception

40%

____________________

These are simply estimations of the cost distribution of a wedding. Decide what elements of the wedding are most important to you and start planning, beginning with the biggest expense and what is of the most importance.

NOTES __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ FALL / WINTER. 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 29

RECEPTION PLANNER Location _________________________________________________________________________ Contact Name __________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number _________________________ Cell Number _____________________________ Email Address ____________________________________________________________________

Check all that apply LOCATION: o Indoor o Outdoor o Same site as ceremony o Walking distance from ceremony SIZE: o Small (under 100) o Medium (100-250) o Large (250 or more) USED FOR: o Ceremony o Reception o Dressing o Overnight rooms SERVICES PROVIDED: o Rooms o Food o Beverage/Alcohol o Disabled Parking o Adequate Parking o Valet o Coat Check o On-Site Wedding Coordinator o Staff to cut the cake o More than one event at a time

30 | MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS

RENTALS AVAILABLE: o Tables o Chairs and chair covers o China, glassware, silverware, and serving dishes o Linens COLOR SCHEME: o Pastels o Jewel Tones o Neutral Tones o Bold/Bright SITE FEATURES: o Grand Entrance o Chandeliers o Baby Grand Piano o Balcony o Grand Staircase o Fireplace o Harwood Floors or Marble o Great View o Stunning o Windows/Window Treatments o Bridal Changing Area o Restrooms o Dance Floor o Meets Size Requirements o Sound System (microphones, speakers)

DECORATIONS: o Head Table o Guest Tables o Cake Table o Guest Book Table o Gift Table RECEPTION STYLE: o Old-world, ornate o Modern o Formal o Rustic o Casual o Intimate BRINGING OWN DECORATIONS: What are decorating restrictions? _________________________ _________________________ WHEN CAN DECORATIONS BE ASSEMBLED? _________________________ _________________________ RATIO OF GUESTS TO SERVERS: _________________________

www.mtnlakeweddings.com | FALL / WINTER. 2026

CATERING PLANNER Location _________________________________________________________________________ Contact Name __________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number _________________________ Cell Number _____________________________ Email Address ____________________________________________________________________

Check all that apply TYPE OF MEAL: o Breakfast/Brunch o Lunch o Cocktails o Dinner o Dessert

ALCOHOL: o Full Bar o Beer and Wine Only o Wine with Dinner o Champagne Toast o Specialty Cocktail

FLAVOR: o Regional o Seasonal o Exotic o Ethnic

SERVICE: o Cocktail Hour o Hors d’oeuvres o Seated Meal o Buffet

COURSES: o Hors d’oeuvres o Appetizer o Soup o Salad o Entrée o Dessert

DESSERT: o Regional o Seasonal o Exotic o Ethnic

ENTREES: o Beef o Chicken o Vegetarian o Pork o Seafood o Lamb o Pasta SPECIAL MEALS: o Gluten Free o Vegan o Vegetarian o Kosher o Other FALL / WINTER. 2026 | www.mtnlakeweddings.com

RENTAL ITEMS: o Tables o Chairs and Chair Covers o China o Glassware o Silverware o Serving Dishes o Linens RATIO OF GUESTS TO SERVERS: _____________________________

MOUNTAIN & LAKE WEDDINGS | 31