Paisley Cafe in Tallahassee. “We offer a custom menu that is specific to the bride. Prosecco has truly changed the game for us as we offer mimosas and tipsy lemonade to morning bridal showers and parties.” The bachelor and bachelorette parties have a flexible timeframe, but for the sake and sanity of all involved, the night before is not encouraged. Whether you choose to travel or stay local, the party should focus on your friendship and involve activities you enjoy. Northwest Florida is a playground for the engaged couple — breweries and a round of golf for the guys or a spa day and cocktails on the beach for the gals. The rehearsal dinner takes place the night before the wedding. After the bridal party and all involved in the ceremony have practiced the proceedings, a dinner is hosted, usually by the groom’s parents. Some opt for fine dining, but others choose a lively or inviting atmosphere. For destination weddings, a location with coastal views or beach access is ideal. “We provide the entire upstairs Fishbone room, along with linens, silverware and full bar service,” said Jackie Maliszewski, office manager at Cafe Thirty-A in Seagrove Beach. “We have the ability to set up
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Soon after the question is popped, it’s time to pop some bubbly at the engagement party. This is a celebration for you as a couple — allowing family, friends and coworkers to mingle in merriment of your soon-to-be matrimony. This is typically a more intimate gathering, so don’t feel the need to invite the entire guest list. Possible locations include the couple’s home, a favorite restaurant, a beloved bar or even the site of the proposal. The bridal shower is for the bride only, so it’s the ideal occasion to host a fancy tea or a boozy brunch. Put on your cutest dress, keep the mimosas flowing and shower the bride with love and gifts. The maid of honor, with assistance from the other bridesmaids, typically hosts this. “Bridal brunches have become increasingly popular,” said Kiersten Lee, owner of
music and visual audio. We even let guests create their own menu to an extent. If guests want something that isn’t on our sample menus, we do our best to accommodate them.” Cafe Thirty-A, like many other admirable restaurants in Northwest Florida, offers all of the services and accomodations you seek when planning a rehearsal dinner. It has become increasingly popular for couples to invite wedding guests to a brunch or lunch the day after the ceremony, especially one in which a large portion of attendees have travelled. This is considered to be one final chance to catch up before the happy couple departs on their honeymoon. From being showered with gifts you will enjoy for a lifetime to unforgettable fun at your bachelor/bachelorette parties to simply spending time with those you care for — take full advantage of these events. They were each crafted with the purpose of celebrating your love. ▪
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