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RATUITY You’ll be a hero if you remember those who provide day-of-event services to you. You should tip for hair and makeup styling, transportation, wedding musicians, on-site coordinator, rental delivery, DJ and officiant.
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ONEYMOON Take one – even if it’s in your own backyard. We like the idea of a tent, complete with popcorn and pillow talk under the stars. Or roll your nuptials and the honeymoon into a destination wedding. Invite friends and family to be your chaperones – for the first half of the trip. The second half should be just for you.
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GETTING DOWN TO THE NITTY-GRITTY Download our printable planner online. weddingessentialsmagazine.com
NVITATION If your guest list hovers between 200 and 250, congratulations. You’re having a typical Midwest wedding. The mailed invitation is your guests’ first clue about the formality of your event. An e-invite is unacceptable. If you have to pair down your invitees, start with people you don’t know well enough to hug or greet by name. Guests invited to your engagement party must be invited to the wedding; no exceptions. The same goes for guests invited to your bridal showers. And, please, put your registry info on your website – not your invitation.
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THE ONESES (as in ‘don’t keep up with’) Do your own thing, however simple or elaborate. And stay true to who you are as a couple. It’s your day, your way.
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IDS The smallest members of your bridal party can be adorable scene-stealers before, during and after your ceremony. But, for them, a day filled with formalities can be an eternity. Give them a break from the grown-up activities by providing a room filled with toys, games, books and mats for napping. At the reception, consider a kids’ table with crayons and paper, a small toy as a favor, and a kid-pleasing menu item. PHOTOS (TOP TO BOTTOM, LEFT TO RIGHT): TRUE IMAGERY, TIN BOX WEDDINGS, CHASE VANDERVEEN PHOTOGRAPHY, TIN BOX WEDDINGS
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OCATION A spot that has been a backdrop for your romance and courtship can become an ideal location for a wedding. A restaurant where you had your first date; a park where you shared your first kiss; the backyard of your parents’ home – all could be worked into your wedding celebration. When you’re ready to book a venue, know your date, guest count and budget.
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