Denver Winter 2018 by Premier Weddings

Winter 2018

of Denver

Briana & Trent

at The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms

Cover Feature on Page 8

A Special Thank You to Our Denver Sponsor,

Our sponsors provide incredible value to our featured couples, their friends and family, and to their vendors. Because of these contributions, we are now able to:

3 Produce hard copies of our magazines at a significantly reduced price! 3 Include more local, inspiring real weddings in each issue of our magazine! 3 Work closely with local wedding pros to help couples keep up on current trends and to help them plan their dream weddings! 3 Promote our magazines to a larger audience of couples planning their weddings!

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Contents Page 8

Cover Feature: Briana + Trent ....................8 Catherine + Adam........................................18 Emily + Ryan...............................................22 Emily + Spencer...........................................26 Wedding Cakes & Sweets ...........................30 Katie + Bill...................................................36

Page 18

Allison + Matt..............................................40 Natalie + Steve.............................................44 Questions to Ask a Florist............................48 Wedding Photo Checklist.............................52 Renee + Brian..............................................58

Page 22

Danielle + Kevin..........................................62 Wedding Dress Shopping Tips.....................66 Choosing a Venue........................................70 Tory + Michael.............................................76 Marisa + Chris.............................................80

Page 26

Page 36

Wedding Planning Guide.............................84

Credits Page 40

Page 44

Page 58

Page 62

Page 76

PUBLISHER Premier Weddings CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS OF REAL WEDDINGS Autumn Cutaia Photography Bellagala From the Hip Photo Jewels Gray Photography Kari Geha Photography Selah Photography Taylor Jones Photography Trystan Photography A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alexander Cross Photography Ama Photography & Cinema C. Baron Photography CamillaRain Photography CHARD Photography Ellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography Frances Photography Ivy Weddings Jonathan Ivy Photography Kaley Elaine Photography Krista Lee Photography Kristyn Hogan Photography Lacy Dagerath Photography Mark Thomas Photography Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers SD Photography ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Email Nick Thiele at nick@premierweddings.com

Page 80

CREDITS

Photo Credit: Straughan Photography

Cover Feature

Briana & Trent Photographer: Taylor Jones Photography

Premier Weddings of Denver

Venue: The Venue at Crooked Willow Farms Photographer: Taylor Jones Photography Catering: Biscuits and Berries Cake: Cathy Leavitt Custom Creations Design and Decor: Prive Event Hair: KimJ Beauty Officiant: Reverend Kim Tavendale Band: Queen City Pipe Band DJ: A Music Plus Invitations: Fries the Moment Photography & Design

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Photo Credit: Ama Photography & Cinema

EXQUISITE SHOT

See why couples trust

Preferred Vendors View our inspiration galleries to see for yourself why couples rave about our preferred vendors! View Inspiration Galleries

Catherine & Adam Photographer: Bellagala

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Venue: blanc Photographer: Bellagala Catering: Occasions Catering Event Designer: Eclectic Hive Event Planner: Cloud 9 Weddings & Papers Bar: Peak Beverage Dress: Nordstrom

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Emily & Ryan Photographer: Bellagala

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Ceremony Venue: Winter Park Mountain Lodge Reception Venue: Vertical Bistro and Lounge Photographer: Bellagala Florals: Bloominous Cupcakes: Whipped Bakery

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Emily & Spencer Photographer: Photography by Jewels

Premier Weddings of Denver

Venue: Garden of the Gods Club and Resort Photographer: Photography by Jewels Florals: Ambience Florals Cake: The Bundt Shoppe Bride’s Hair/Makeup: Jewels Gray Bridesmaids’ Hair: Diabolical Beauty Day of Coordinator: Coordination Co. Officiant: Paul Anderson Band: Diamond Empire Band Photo Booth: Choice Photo Booths

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Photo Credit: CHARD Photography

CAKES & SWEETS

6 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Cake CHECK WITH THE VENUE

THE FROSTING

Some wedding venues don’t allow you to bring in an outside cake. It’s important to check with your wedding venue first, and find out if there’s a fee for not getting your cake through them. You’d be surprised how much it can cost per slice to make arrangements to bring in your own cake.

Buttercream cakes typically taste a lot better than a fondant cake. Fondant cakes are chosen by couples who want that perfect cake look that really adds to the overall look of your wedding. If you’re going for both amazing taste and beauty, then consider first frosting the cake with a buttercream frosting and then add a layer of fondant over the top.

SIZE IT CAREFULLY You should have a good idea of how many guests you expect at your reception. Let your cake decorator know that, as well as how confident you are in that number. You want to avoid getting more cake than you need, but you also don’t want to be short handed. Take the advice of your cake decorator on this topic. They do this for a living!

SHOP IT AROUND

Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography

Wedding cakes are an important part of your wedding, and like everything else, you should shop around for the best service. The best service isn’t always just who has the lowest price. You want to know how easy it is to communicate with the cake decorator. You’ll also want to read ample reviews to know how others feel about their experiences.

WEATHER & LOCATION Your options may be limited based on if you’re having an indoor or outdoor wedding.If you’re having your reception in July at a outdoor wedding venue, then you’ll need to avoid buttercream or whipped cream frosting. Nothing is worse than an icky mess that doesn’t hold up in warmer weather.

VENDOR COLLABORATION Many couples choose to put fresh flowers on their wedding cakes. If this is the case, you need to make sure your florist and cake decorator are able to communicate. Make sure you know whether it’s the florist or the cake decorator that’s going to add these final touches.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography

GET INSPIRED: Click Here to View Our Online Cake Gallery! 34

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Photo Credit: Lacy Dagerath Photography

Katie & Bill

Photographer: Autumn Cutaia Photography

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Venue: Ya Ya Farm & Orchard Photographer: Autumn Cutaia Photography Planner: A Touch of Bliss, Chelsea Smith Florals: A Design Resource & Crystal in the Garden Rentals: All Events Catering: Buffalo Gals Bar: Garnish Farm Tables/China/Linen: Colorado Party Rentals DJ: Rock Candy Beauty: Captivate Beauty Services Cake: Gateaux

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Allison & Matt Photographer: Kari Geha Photography

Premier Weddings of Denver

Photographer: Kari Geha Photography Venue/Catering/Rentals: The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera Planner: Sarah McGinnis, A Touch of Bliss Cake: Sugar Breck DJ: Great Time DJ Florist: Crystal in the Garden Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dress: The Bridal Collection Officiant: Edwin Ward Hair & Makeup: Ashley Smith Beauty Videographer: Jeff the Video Guy Chargers: Details Delivered

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Natalie & Steven Photographer: Kari Geha Photography

Premier Weddings of Denver

Photographer: Kari Geha Photography Venue: Balistreri Vineyards Wedding Coordinator: Jessica Godo at Balistreri Vineyards Officiant: Adrienne Babb Florist: Sara Mica Designs Dress: BHLDN Hair & Makeup: Leigh Batenburg Stationary: Minted

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Credit: Nyk + Cali Partner Photographers

Photo credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

www.premierweddings.com Exquisite real weddings & engagements, inspiration galleries, and advice from local pros!

Photo credit: Ama Photography

Questions to Ask a Florist 1. How much experience do you have doing weddings? 2. Have you done weddings at my chosen venue before? 3. Will my flower choices be in season? 4. Do you have a porfolio of your work? 5. Who is responsible for setup and delivery? Is there a delivery fee? 6. How long do you need to setup? 7. How do you price your floral arrangements? 8. What recommendations do you have to help maximize my budget? 9. How would you describe your design style? 10. When is payment due?

Print Florist Questionnaire

FLOWERS Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography

Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings

GET INSPIRED: Click Here to View Our Online Floral Gallery Premier Weddings of Denver

Wedding Photo Checklist With the Bride

q Bride alone – close up and full-length q Bride touching up makeup and hair q Bride with mother q Bride with father q Bride with both parents q Bride with grandparents q Bride with siblings q Bride with maid/matron of honor q Bride with groom’s sister(s) q Bride with all bridesmaids q Bride with flower girls q Bride with entire immediate family q Bride with father waiting to walk down the aisle

With the Groom

q Groom alone – close up and full length q Groom with mother q Groom with father q Groom with both parents q Groom with Brothers q Groom with bride’s brothers q Groom with best man q Groom with all groomsman q Groom with ring bearer q Groom with entire immediate family

At the Ceremony Venue

q Officiant q Groomsmen seating guests q Registry attendants & greeters

Photo Credit: Nyk+Cali Wedding Photographers

q Seating of grandmothers q Seating of mothers q Lighting of unity candle by parents q Groom waiting at alter with best man q Processional of wedding party q Maid/Matron of honor walking down the aisle q Ring bearer walking down aisle q Bride and father before walking down the aisle q Bride walking down aisle with father q Bride being given away q Entire ceremony scene once everyone is present q Bride and groom at the alter q Exchanging of rings q Exchanging of vows q Lighting of the unity candle q Exchanging of the kiss q Announcement of Mr. and Mrs. q Recessional

After the Ceremony

q Bride with register attendants q Bride and groom with greeters q Bride and groom with readers q Bride and groom q Bride and groom with wedding party q Bride and groom with bride’s parents q Bride and groom with groom’s parents q Bride and groom with bride’s family q Bride and groom with groom’s family

PHOTOGRAPHY

During the Ceremony

Wedding Photo Checklist Reception Photos

q Bride and Groom’s entrance to reception q Bride and groom’s first dance – full length q Bride and groom’s first dance – close up q Bride dancing with father q Groom dancing with mother q Bride and groom talking with guests q Toasting q Bride and groom cutting cake q Bride tossing bouquet q Groom taking off garter q Bride with all girlfriends q Groom with all best friends q Candid reception photos q Guests preparing for bride and groom’s “going away” q Bride and groom leaving reception

Miscellaneous

q Wedding cake q Food table q Decorations q Musicians q Gift table q Decorated car q Bride’s bouquet

Download Wedding Photos Checklist

Photo Credit: Krystyn Hogan Photography

Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography

Photo Credit: Ellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography

EXQUISITE SHOT

Renee & Brian Photographer: From the Hip Photo

Premier Weddings of Denver

Venue: Artwork Network Photographer: From the Hip Photo Catering: Three Tomatoes Catering Florals: Flourescence Flowers Hair and Makeup: The Parlour Denver Dress: a&bĂŠ bridal shop Lighting: Firefly Lighting Design Rentals: Event Rents

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Danielle & Kevin Photographer: Selah Photography

Premier Weddings of Denver

Photographer: Selah Photography Venue: Grant Humphreyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mansion Catering: Catering By Design Decor: Eclectic Hive Florist: Fresh Flower Market Beauty: Eye Do Make Up & Hair Music: Bill Sickles Casino: A Casino Event Planner: Sarah McGinnis, A Touch of Bliss

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Wedding Dress Shopping Tips Bridal dress shopping can be the ultimate girl time or a stressful experience. Even if you are a seasoned shopping aficionado, shopping for a wedding dress is a completely different experience. Fortunately, your bridal appointment will be successful if you remember these shopping tips.

DO: YOUR RESEARCH Build your confidence before shopping by gathering basic knowledge of wedding dresses. Do some simple research on dress styles and silhouettes, designers whose aesthetic matches yours and the colors you like best (yes, there are actually many shades of white). If you can communicate with your sales rep in her language, your appointment will be more successful.

DO: START SHOPPING EARLY Some brides will not start shopping until they have lost 10 more pounds. This is a mistake! The process can be stressful, and the added pressure of a tight deadline adds unnecessary drama. Try to begin shopping 9-12 months before your wedding. Pro Tip: If you are worried about a swing in weight, find a corset style gown.

DO: BRING A STRAPLESS BRA & PAIR OF HEELS If you want to see exactly how the dress will look, have these items handy. Some dresses will look completely differently with a good foundation or when they are lifted just an inch or two with a pair of heels. Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

You have always dreamed of a ballgown, but may be pleasantly surprised at how elegant you feel in a mermaid or A-line. Trust your bridal consultants and try on anything they suggest. Your dream dress may be homely on the hanger but gorgeous on you.

DON’T: GET HUNG UP ON SIZE It is just a number. Wedding dresses do not run the same as your typical clothing sizes. Don’t let a tiny number in the tag stand between you and your dream dress. Remember your dress will probably require some alterations. It’s about the fit, never about the number.

WEDDING DRESS

DO: TRY ON DIFFERENT STYLES

DON’T: BRING YOUR ENTOURAGE Bring your trusted advisors--your friends and family that are encouraging yet honest. Do not bring a huge entourage because you do not want to hurt feelings. In this case, the appointment usually leads to confusion and conflicting opinions. It will be hard to focus on your true feelings on each dress.

DON’T: TRY ON A DRESS YOU CAN’T AFFORD It is worth repeating. Do not try on a dress that is outside of your budget, even if it is just to get a feel for a style or size. A $2,000 dress will never be able to compete with a $7,000 dress. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Stick to your price range. Pro Tip: If you are working with a low budget, go for a more simple gown and glam it up with a quality beaded sash or accessory.

DON’T: FORGET ABOUT ACCESSORIES AND ALTERATIONS Invest some time in choosing just the right accessories to complement your ensemble and of course, don’t forget to budget for them. Some brides put so much time and energy nding just the right dress and the rest of the details are just an afterthought. You may want a veil, ower crown or hair piece, jewelry, and a pretty sash or belt. Don’t forget about your shoes! You will de nitely need cute and comfy shoes! Your best experience will happen at the best bridal shop. Ask for suggestion to nd a shop that offers a great selection in your price range, and helpful bridal consultants.

Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings

Photo Credit: Lacy Dagerath Photography

Photo Credit: Ivy Weddings

CHOOSING A VENUE

Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue SCHEDULING AND ACCOMMODATIONS 1. Is my wedding date available? 2. How many other weddings are scheduled that day? 3. How many people can the venue accommodate? 4. How long will I have use of the event space(s) 5. I reserve? Is there an overtime fee if I stay longer? 6. Can I hold my ceremony here, too? If so, is there an additional charge? 7. Is there a bride’s changing area? 8. How much time is allocated for the rehearsal? 9. Is there room for a band and/or dancing? 10. Are there adequate bathroom facilities? 11. Is there a coat check? 12. Is the site handicap accessible? 13. Is there parking on site? If so, is it complimentary? Do you offer valet parking?

MONEY MATTERS 1. What is the venue fee and what is included in that price? 2. Is there a discount for booking an off-season date or Sunday through Friday? 3. How much is the deposit, when is it due, and is it refundable? 4. What’s the cancellation policy? 5. What’s the payment plan for the entire bill?

GENERAL QUESTIONS 1. Is there a backup plan for rain or inclement weather? 2. Who is responsible for setting up and tearing down the decor, and when will it be completed? 3. Does the venue have liability insurance? 4. Will there be security guards on site, or do I need to make my own arrangements?

Photo Credit: C. Baron Photography

Important Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue VENDORS AND SETUP 1. Must I use in-house caterers, or choose from a preferred vendor list? 2. If I hire my own caterer, are kitchen facilities available for them? 3. Can I bring in a cake from an outside cake maker or must I use a cake made on the premises? Is there a cake-cutting fee? If I use a cake made on site is the fee waived? Do you provide special cake-cutting utensils? 4. When can my vendors arrive for setup? 5. Are there any decoration limitations? 6. Are candles permitted? 7. Are tables, linens, chairs, plates, silverware and glassware provided? If so, is there an additional charge? 8. Can I move things around and decorate to suit my purposes, or do I have to leave everything as is? 9. Does the venue own sound equipment, or do I need to rent my own?

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 1. Are you licensed to provide alcohol service? If so, is alcohol priced per person? 2. By consumption? Are there additional charges for bar staff? 3. What is the food & beverage cost on a per-person basis? What is the tax and service charge? 4. Can I bring my own wine, beer or champagne, and is there a corkage fee if I do? 5. Can I bring in other alcohol?

Download Important Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue Photo Credit: Alexander Cross Photography

Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

Tory & Michael Photographer: From the Hip Photo

Premier Weddings of Denver

Venue: Artwork Network Photographer: From the Hip Photo Cake: Cakes by Karen Bride’s Dress: Little White Dress Caterer: Tony Rosacci’s Fine Dining Rentals: Event Rents DJ: DJ Sinna-G Bride’s Hair: Marlania Trujillo Bride’s Makeup: Nina Marie

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Marisa & Chris Photographer: Trystan Photography

Premier Weddings of Denver

Venue: Sanctuary Golf Course Photographer: Trystan Photography Florals: Newberry Brothers Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dress: Luv Bridal Cake: Gateaux Bakery Tuxedos: Suit Supply Hair: Brittani Estes Hair Makeup: Alli B Artistry

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Photo Credit: Mark Thomas Photography

PLANNING GUIDE

Advice from the pros to help you plan your perfect day!

WEDDING TIMELINE CHECKLIST YOU’RE ENGAGED!

q Determine Budget

q Start Compiling Guest List q Determine Possible Dates q Research Wedding Venues q Create a Wedding Website

12 MONTHS

q Hire a Photographer

q Begin shopping for wedding dresses q Choose your bridal party q Finalize date after considering venue and photographer availability q Book a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests

11 MONTHS q Plan wedding decor q Research floral design & book florist q Book caterer q Choose stationary vendor q Consider hiring a wedding planner

10 MONTHS

q Finalize guest list q Register for gifts

q Choose an officiant

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q Compile music list for ceremony & reception

9 MONTHS

q Order wedding dress

q Order Save the Dates!

8 MONTHS

q Order accessories

q Plan and book honeymoon (for international excursions)

7 MONTHS

q Choose and order wedding invites q Hair and makeup trial q Order bridesmaids dresses q Send out Save the Dates

6 MONTHS

q Order rental items (tables, chairs, etc.) q Arrange for additional sound equipment, if necessary

5 MONTHS

q Choose groom’s attire

q Purchase shoes, lingerie, and garter q Plan and book honeymoon (local excursions)

q Book wedding night accommodations!

2 MONTHS

q Mail Wedding Invitations q Finalize catering menu (donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the alcohol)

6 WEEKS

q Purchase wedding bands q Confirm # of bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres

2 WEEKS

q Obtain marriage license q Create a wedding day itinerary to give to vendors and attendants q Give final head count to caterer q Finalize seating chart q Confirm vendor arrival times

Download Printable Timeline Checklist

THE COUNTDOWN!

3 MONTHS

PHOTO/VIDEO

ATTIRE

RECEPTION

WEDDING BUDGET

Photo Credit: Ama Photography & Cinema

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Venue & Rentals Catering Beverages Cake Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Gown & Alterations Headpiece & Veil Bridal Accessories Hair & Makeup Groom’s Tux/Suit Groom’s Accessories Children’s Apparel Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Photography Videography Additional Prints Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Ceremony Musicians Cocktail Hour Music Reception DJ/Band Sound System or Dance Floor Rental Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Florals for Ceremony Bride’s Bouquet Bridesmaid’s Bouquets Boutonnieres Corsages Reception Decor Lighting Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Site Fee Officiant Flower Girl’s Basket Ring Pillow Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

BUDGET

MUSIC FLOWERS & DECOR CEREMONY

TRANSPORTATION

RINGS

STATIONARY/GIFTS

WEDDING BUDGET

Photo Credit: Jessica Strickland Photography

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Save the Date Cards Invitations & RSVPs Seating & Place Cards Menu Cards Thank You Notes Postage Bridal Party Gifts Favors Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Bride’s Ring Groom’s Ring

$ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Limousine for Bride and Groom Limousine for Bridal Party Transportation for Out-of-Town Guests Valet Parking Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________

$ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Catering Bartender Liquor Rentals Decor Music Servers Miscellaneous

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

ESTIMATE ACTUAL

Marriage License Wedding Coordinator Bridesmaidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Luncheon Hotel for Guests Manicure/Pedicure for Attendants Security Other

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________

Download Printable Budget

$ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ $ ________

Download Funds Planner .XLS File

BUDGET

REHEARSAL DINNER MISCELLANEOUS

GUEST LIST Guest

Sent Invite

Attending

How Many

Thank You

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Yes q No q

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Download Printable Guest Checklist 92

Gift

Premier Weddings of Denver

‘‘

“Determine your overall budget first and allocate your dollars per category. This will help determine the max number of guests that you can afford to entertain.” “Nix plus ones for your friends who are in casual dating relationships. If your bridesmaid begins dating someone a couple months prior to the wedding and you approve of the guy then invite him for cocktails and dancing after dinner.”

-- NATALIE DAWLEY - Houston, TX

“Weddings are an investment. Your guest on your guest list should be invested in your relationship as a couple and supportive in starting your new life together. If people end up on the guest list because you were invited to their wedding, or they go to your church, that is not a good enough reason.”

-- ANGELA PROFFITT - Charlotte, TN

“Couples should know the approximate number of guest before settling on a venue. Be selective with your guest list because cost per guest will most likely be one of your biggest expenses. ” -- SHARON PEOPLES, Houston, TX

THE GUEST LIST

Tips from the Pros on How to Compile Your Guest List!

Tips for Choosing the Best Caterer Every bride wants to be a good hostess and provide enough tasty food and drink to keep their guests in good spirits. Therefore, the most critical decision you will make for your wedding is the caterer. They can make your wedding reception a dream or a nightmare. A good caterer can easily handle the preparation, service and clean up of the meal seamlessly. Many caterers also provide the rentals such as linens, dishes, and even tables and chairs as a service to their brides. Some even provide bartenders and cut and serve the cake. This one stop shopping experience can be valuable on saving time and money. First, contact your venue for a list of approved caterers. Some venues require you to use one on the list. Ask who they recommend. If your venue does allow outside caterers, begin asking for recommendations from friends and family. If you use a caterer that has never worked at that venue before, request a list of the requirements they have to meet in order to work on their property. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sign on the dotted line until you have had a tasting. Once you have found one that makes your tastebuds happy, ask these 8 questions to finalize the details.

Photo Credit: Kurtis Kronk Photography

The service and atmosphere of the dinner hour is just as important as how the food tastes. Ask your caterer about the number servers they plan to provide for for your guest list. If you are having a buffet, you need one server for approximately every 20 guests. If you are having a plated meal, you can have one server for every 15 guests. Also, be sure their attire will match your atmosphere. You may assume the servers will be in black tie only to have them show up in the company polo.

Talk cocktails and cake. This is where you will need to do some logistical work among your venue, cake bakery and caterer. You will want to make sure you (and your vendors) are clear on who is doing what. You do not want to pay double for both vendors planning to serve cake and cocktails or worse, no vendor planning to do so. Bartending and cake service may be options your caterer provides. If you choose to utilize them, discuss each of these services and have your final decisions specified in your contract.

How is your pricing broken down (e.g. food, bar, tax, gratuity)? A caterer should be upfront and clear about exactly what is included in their quote. If you are unsure, ask for an itemized quote. Many brides have blown their budget at the end of the wedding when they find that service and tax were not included in their pricing. For a large wedding, those two items could be several thousand dollars.

CATERING

What is the ratio of servers to guests, and how will the servers be dressed?

What is your payment policy? While on the subject of pricing, discuss when and how you are to pay. Most caterers will require some sort of deposit when you sign your contract. You haven’t truly booked your caterer until this payment is received. It is also important to avoid late fees.

When is my final count date? The final count date is the last day to tell your caterer how many to prepare for. It will save you money and stress to have this number as accurate as possible. Make sure you are clear on this day so you can give the caterer the number.

What is your cancellation policy? There are a number of things that could come up that could cause you to cancel your caterer even if you are not calling off the wedding. Make sure you know the cancellation policy when you sign the contract. Think of it as Murphy’s Law wedding repellant.

What if my event runs over? Have this conversation with your caterer before all your guests are stuck in traffic. Again, no one plans for their wedding to run behind and the odds are, it won’t. But, just to be safe, ask about their policy just in case. Review question #6 for further explanation.

What is your policy on cleanup? This is probably the last thing every bride thinks of in wedding planning. First, have a discussion on exactly what is considered clean up and who will be responsible for this service. Then, clarify who will clean up and when the cleanup will occur. While you’re at it, discuss what to do with the leftovers.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Ivy Photography

GET INSPIRED: Click Here to View Our Catering Image Gallery

Photo Credit: Kristyn Hogan Photography

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