The One Magazine // Issue 1

Image © Rhonda Favor Studios

1. Go VIP! Not only is this the best value, but VIPs are guaranteed to get more out of the show. Your VIP ticket comes with a bag filled with essentials for your wedding day!

2. Come prepared. What checkboxes are left on your wedding planning list? What vendors do you still need to secure? Check out the vendor page on our website https://theoneweddingshow.com/vendors/ beforehand to plan out who you want to meet.

3. Bring the whole crew.

The show is designed to be fun! Bring your fiancé, your friends and the parents. Bring the decision-makers for your wedding. Vendors book up fast and their show specials will save you money.

4. Don’t forget the essentials.

Bring your checkbook or debit card for your wedding account so you can secure your favorite vendors before they have your date booked.

5. Create a wedding email.

Create a separate wedding email address to help keep your professional and personal inboxes clear. Keeping all of your wedding communications in one spot will also make things easier. You can use this email at the show and on your contact stickers.

6. Preprinted contact stickers.

These can be printed on regular mailing labels. This way you can quickly and easily enter all of the giveaways without taking the time to write your info over and over! Here are some essentials to have on these stickers for the bride and groom: first and last names, wedding email, bride’s phone number and your wedding date.

7. Charge your phone.

Some vendors will have QR codes to scan and this will be the easiest way for you to enter their giveaways and get their websites and contact info. Your phone’s camera is a great tool to remember the vendors that you liked the most or just to snap a fun picture of you and your wedding gang for Insta.

8. Bring a notebook.

If you are a notorious notetaker, come prepared to write down your favorite vendor names and notes about your time with them.

9. Give yourself plenty of time.

This is a large show. Give yourself two to three hours to stop by all of the vendors’ booths that you want to see most.

10. Have fun!

We know wedding planning can be stressful, but the show shouldn’t be! Wear comfortable shoes and have a great time!

COVER SPOTLIGHT

ABOUT THE IMAGE

Photographer | DCR Productions Facebook - dcrproductionsmo Instagram - dcrproductionsmo

Couple | Alyssa & Kyle Wedding Date | 6/11/2022

Comment from the Photographer: “Alyssa and Kyle were so fun to work with. From the engagement session to the very end of the wedding, their ability to laugh and have fun was contagious! The only thing more special than the day is the way Kyle constantly looks at Alyssa.”

Comment from the Photographer for Cover: “Alyssa and Kyle’s wedding was gorgeous, and not a day I’ll soon forget. From the flowers, to the dress, to the love, it could not have been a more perfect wedding. Congratulations, Alyssa & Kyle! Thank you so much for choosing me to be your wedding photographer!”

VENDORS

Reception & Ceremony Venue |

The Weingarten

Facebook - theweingarten Instagram - theweingartenbelleville

Desserts |

Sweet Katie Bees Sustainable Bakery-Cafe Facebook - sweetkatiebees Instagram - sweetkatiebees

Florist | Grimm and Gorly Facebook - grimmandgorly Instagram - grimmandgorly

Bridal Gown | Mia Grace Bridal Facebook - MiaGraceBridalSTL Instagram - miagracebridal

Groom’s Attire |

Tailored Gents Custom Clothier Facebook - tailoredgentscc Instagram - the_tailored_gent

Caterer |

Salt and Smoke Facebook - saltandsmokebbq Instagram - saltandsmokebbq

Engagement Location |

Whitey Herzog Field in Belleville, IL

Couple’s Wedding Advice: I would say your husband/wife is your teammate through life. You share or exchange load carrying through battles and the easy stuff. Communicate about each aspect of life.

Couple’s Most Memorable Wedding Moment: Most memorable moment.. shoot.. my baby had an ear infection but she persevered, it was super hot out and everyone was sweating, my sister cried during her speech but overall a great day haha.

Kyle & Alyssa’s love story!

Finding “The One” should be organic, authentic and fun. There couldn’t be three more perfect words to describe Kyle and Alyssa’s journey. They bonded over bowling, pizza and cats. Sounds perfect, right? For their love story, it truly was perfect.

This couple met when Kyle’s cousin invited Alyssa out for a night of bowling with friends. Their connection was unexpected but undeniable. After that night of bowling, Kyle knew that he was interested in Alyssa. He asked her out to get pizza at Peel, a restaurant across the river from St. Louis (which is still their favorite pizza spot today).

After a successful first date, Kyle and Alyssa continued their boyfriendgirlfriend relationship for six years until Kyle decided that it was time to make Alyssa his forever. Their love continued to grow over the years. It was on a family vacation with Kyle’s family that he knew she was the one.

Leading up to their engagement, they discovered their favorite qualities of one another. “She balances me, supports me and lets me be the best version of myself,’’ Kyle said. Alyssa told us that her favorite thing about Kyle is how he’s just as intelligent as he is silly. “It keeps a balance throughout our lives. He encourages me to be greater but also allows me to laugh.”

Kyle and Alyssa describe themselves as “homebodies,” which makes the proposal one for the books. As most girls do, Alyssa had dreamt of her wedding day and seeing the love of her life at the end of the aisle. When Alyssa started grad school she would send Kyle rings to give him the hint that she was eager. But because of the chaos of school, Alyssa didn’t entirely see it coming.

Shortly after she started grad school, the couple ventured out to try a new restaurant. When they got there, the place was packed, so they changed plans and decided to go to a small local brewery instead. Alyssa could tell that Kyle seemed a little “off,” but she didn’t think too much about it. Once they got home, Alyssa put on her pajamas expecting a quiet, less-eventful evening at home. Kyle joined her on the couch, but sat at the opposite side. He started the “big ask” by telling her the amount of love and appreciation he has for her and how she means the world to him. After several minutes of pampering her with words of love and affection, he reached in between the couch cushions and pulled out the ring box. Kyle looked at Alyssa with every nervous bone in his body and so much love in his eyes, then asked Alyssa to marry him.

After the definite “yes” the couple began planning their wedding. They were so excited to celebrate their love with friends and family. They kept their ceremony short and spent the reception dancing, taking pictures at the photo booth and playing games that they had planned. It couldn’t have been a more perfect day to portray what their future would be like—fun, happy, silly and with so much love in their hearts.

The couple said that this is the best advice they were given in the planning process: “Don’t stress the day of your wedding. There’s a good chance that it won’t all go to plan, but be flexible. Go into your day telling yourself that nothing and no one will create stress for you. Brush it off. Get ready, smile and marry your person.”

Alyssa and Kyle are also parents. When interviewing them, they both told us what a great parent the other is. Their quirkiness has filled their happy home. Since having their baby, they say that their silliness has intensified. They find themselves being playful with not only their baby, but also their cats. Kyle said that there is no way to express how silly she is but he absolutely loves her “weirdness.”

Looking back at their journey, it’s easy to see that they have both found their person. The amount of love and support they give each other is what most hope for in a marriage—and for them, it’s natural.

Congratulations, Kyle & Alyssa!

Images © DCR Productions

Image © Rhonda Favor Studios

Hi everyone!

I’m Rhonda Favor and I’m the woman behind The One Wedding Show & Magazine. I’ve been a wedding photographer for 17 years and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’m so excited to help couples find the team that will make their day special—aligning with the vision they’ve had from day one.

After all these years, I still get tears in my eyes when I see a parent’s first look at their daughter on her wedding day. And the first time a groom sees his bride, there’s just nothing like it. My clients have asked me before if I need a tissue (if you can picture that)!

Whether you think you are creative or not, surrounding yourself with the right people leading up to your big day can help bring out your creativity. We like to make wedding planning as easy as possible. That’s why we make it simple for you to find the vendors that will help you make the most of your day. That’s why I do what I do.

It’s my joy and honor to take everything I’ve learned and help couples and vendors find the best fit for them. As part of my quest to make each couple’s journey easier, we’re doing a lot more online this year. The live show is incredible (save the dates for January 7-8 and August 6 2023) but our online directory will help you relive the moment and easily find your favorites from the show.

Happy wedding planning and enjoy the ride!

Love, Rhonda

Facebook - zachdalinphotography

Instagram - zachdalin

The One Magazine is published semi-annually, and distributed in St. Louis and the surrounding area, by RAF Productions. Mailing Address is 1200 Sleepy Hollow Drive Troy MO 63379. Email: team@theoneweddingshow.com. Entire contents copyrighted by RAF Productions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. All articles are property of RAF Productions. Photographs used in The One Magazine are provided and copyrighted by their respective owners, and may not be reproduced without the owner’s permission. RAF Productions is not responsible for any errors, misprints, misquotes, or omissions. All vendor information for Real Weddings and/or Our Love Story features, was supplied to The One, by the wedding couple and/or a third party. The One cannot take responsibility for mis-information that was provided. The Real Weddings and/or Our Love Story are not paid advertisements, but provided as a resource to The One readers. Note: While an effort has been made to compile the most respected wedding professionals in the area, inclusion in this magazine is paid advertising and not an endorsement by The One Magazine.

Photographer | Zach Dalin Photography

ABOUT THE IMAGE

VENDORS

Bridal Gown Designer |

Cristiano Lucci Facebook - CristianoLucciBridal Instagram - cristianoluccibridal

Bridal Gown Shop | Maiden Voyage Bridal Facebook - MaidenVoyageBridal Instagram - maiden_voyage_bridal

Groom’s Attire | Gentry’s Limited Facebook - gentryslimited Instagram - gentryslimited

Ceremony Venue | Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis Facebook - cathedralstlmo Instagram - cathedralbasilicaofstl

Officiants |

Celebrant- Fr. Joseph Krilich, TOR, Concelebrant- Rev. Zachary Povis, Deacon- Paul Krilich

Ceremony Music | Cathedral Basilica Choir

Jewelry | John David Jewelers

Reception Venue |

Missouri Athletic Club Facebook - macstlouis Instagram - macstlouis

Cocktail Hour Entertainment | Phil Mitchell Band

Heritage Entertainment |

The Braća Tamburitza Orchestra of Chicago DJ | Porta Party DJs Facebook - PortaPartyDJ Instagram - portapartydjs

Hair & Make-up Artists |

The Bridal Suite Facebook - thebridalsuitestl Instagram - thebridalsuitestl

Videographer | Wildfire Media Facebook - weddingsbywildfire Instagram - weddings_by_wildfire

Photo Booth | Fun Photo Events Facebook - funphotoevents Instagram - funphotoevents

Gluten-Free Wedding Cake | Britt’s Bakehouse Facebook - BrittsBakehouse Instagram - brittsbakehouse

Desserts | Strawberry Hill Baking Company, Vitale’s Bakery, Liz McClure Macaroons

Wedding Favors |

On Board Coffee Facebook - onboardcoffee Instagram - onboardcoffee

Read Valentina & Alexander’s love story!

Valentina & Alexander’s love story!

Sometimes, you just know. You can’t really explain it, but you know you’ve found “The One.”

Then, one day you realize that your similarities and differences are the perfect combination, as if it’s a match made in heaven. Something this perfect is hard to miss. But even the perfect love story usually requires a sequence of big and little journeys to find it. And then other times, the perfect love story really just needs...fate.

Alexander and Valentina’s love story started at a bus station in Croatia. The setting was something out of a romance novel.

Alexander had just purchased his ticket to begin his journey home to America. During his time in Croatia, his work responsibilities began to pile up. His bus ticket was a sign that he was cutting his trip short so he could get back to business. In the months leading up to this trip, Alexander had been prayerfully seeking the woman who would one day be his wife. However, waiting at that empty bus station and anxious to get back home, his mind was on work, not on finding true love. Until Valentina.

Valentina and her Aunt Marisella were traveling back home to Italy. Even after their three-hour bus ride, they weren’t even close to their destination. They wouldn’t board their flight until the following day. At this stage in Valentina’s life, she was prayerful and looking to find a good husband, but in that moment she was just enjoying her travels. When Valentina turned the corner at the bus station, her focus shifted back to her prayers. Her husband would be on the same three-hour ride—she just didn’t know it yet.

Alexander and Valentina boarded the bus. As Alexander waited for the bus to pull away from the station, he continued to think about life, his business and how he dreaded the next few hours on that bus. As his mind drifted elsewhere, he heard a sweet “hello” directed at him. As he turned his head to see who it was, he was faced with a beautiful Italian girl smiling at him.

For the remainder of the three-hour trip, they flirted over Google Translate. The spark between them was so strong that Alexander didn’t want it to end when the bus ride was over. So, when Valentina told him that she wouldn’t be boarding her flight until the next day, Alexander quickly offered to take her to the beach while they waited to part ways. Valentina declined his offer and Alexander was more than bummed. It wasn’t so much the rejection that left him feeling afflicted, it was the fact that she would rather spend hours waiting in the noisy airport than with him. For a moment, it seemed like this wouldn’t be a love story after all. But then again, this is where some stories just need a little help from fate.

Even after the beach date rejection, Alexander and Valentina continued to keep in touch over Instagram. Months passed by and their connection continued to grow. Despite the time difference, the two found a rhythm to maintain a longdistance relationship. While so many long-distance couples were breaking up, Alexander and Valentina seemed to be an exception. After months of messaging, it was clear that one way or another they had to end up together. They made plans to reconnect in person the following summer. Even though that was over a year away, they never lost hope.

Unfortunately, that following summer was when the world was rocked by a major shutdown due to COVID-19. When the shutdown hit, Alexander and Valentina were continuously rejected to travel when attempting to book flights. Their plans had to change.

After researching, they learned that one of the only options for them to meet in person was to travel back to Croatia. Ironically, their next time seeing each other face-to-face was where they first met over a year prior. But this time they were at the bus station to intentionally find each other. Standing in the station after 16 months apart, it was obvious they were meant for each other.

They spent a month together in Croatia. They were more in love than ever. Knowing that their time together would have to temporarily come to an end when their trip was over, Alexander knew that there had to be more. After he arrived back in America, this time he prepared for the proposal. Valentina was his person and he didn’t want to live his life without her. She had no idea what was coming next.

Valentina & Alexander’s Love Story

After seven months of anxiously waiting to see her again, he flew to Valentina’s hometown, just north of Milan. After arriving at Lake Como, Alexander met her family and planned a beautiful proposal. Valentina’s parents instantly said “yes” when Alexander asked for their blessing, in Italian. With everything in order, Alexander took Valentina on a boat ride around the lake and docked at a villa. Overlooking the lake, he dropped to one knee and asked her to marry him. There was no hesitation. It was an instant “yes!”

What followed next was months of planning and preparation for not just one, but two weddings. The couple decided to celebrate once in America and a second time in Italy. Neither Alexander nor Valentina enjoyed much of the wedding planning process, but surrounded by loving friends, family and amazing professionals, they came together and planned two weddings of fairy tales. Valentina was able to share her Italian heritage with her new family in America and the couple was able to share the beautiful side of their new life together with their family in Italy.

Just like most weddings, not everything went as planned. Based on their timeline, they were an hour behind schedule. But the happy couple has encouraged other engaged couples with this: “Don’t sweat the small stuff, or really the big stuff. Commit to yourself and to one another that you will not allow any issues that may arise ruin your day. Ensure you have time alone for one another.”

The couple recently told us that they are always on the same wavelength. So it’s no surprise that a few timeline hiccups wouldn’t get in their way of having the most memorable day.

Leading up to their unexpected collision in that Croatian bus station, both Alexander and Valentina were eager to find their person, but being so independent and driven, they needed fate to bring them together. All that matters now is that they will live their life together in a love-filled marriage and they have a beautiful love story to pass down for generations.

Congratulations, Alexander and Valentina!

Images © Zach Dalin Photography

Real Weddings

Need some wedding inspiration? Check out these local weddings and get planning!

WEDDING ADVICE FROM THE COUPLE

“Start planning early and be ready for the plans to change, because they usually do.” - Groom

Kenya & Dakota

COUPLE’S MOST MEMORABLE WEDDING MOMENT

“Our sunset photo shoot, sounds like a moment that wouldn’t be that memorable right? For some it sounds like a normal opportunity to have a gorgeous background in a wedding photo. For my husband and I, it was our first moment away from the rush and craze that comes with a wedding day, we were placed back into our natural element while getting to focus on only our other half. In this moment, while the sun was setting on the horizon, the exchange of our vows and our unity as one had finally set in too.” - Bride

“The moment we exchanged our first look on the aisle, knowing we were surrounded by all of our loved ones, yet somehow our emotions and adrenaline in that very moment blocked all of reality out, and left us with an unforgettable feeling.” - Groom

WEDDING ADVICE FROM THE COUPLE

“The advice I would give to couples that are getting married is to have a good relationship with your photographer. Do their research and make sure the photographer’s style matches their wedding style. Find someone who is passionate about their work because it will show in the memories they will cherish forever.”

“Our

are you won’t even realize anything was amiss on the day since it all flies by so quickly.”

“Our most memorable moment was when we first saw each other down the aisle, we had missed each other so much and it sunk in that we finally got to promise forever to each other it was unforgettable.”

Sam & Rekha

COUPLE’S WEDDING ADVICE

“Make a list of the things most important to you and start planning from there. Remember it’s your day and have fun with it! Everything doesn’t have to be exactly perfect. Things will go wrong, but that’s ok because things tend to work out on their own and become stories to tell for years to come.”

COUPLES MOST MEMORABLE WEDDING MOMENT

“My most memorable wedding moment would have to be when we were taking pictures in the cellar, it was great to take pictures with everyone but at that moment we had a chance to really take it in and share that with each other.”

KAYLA & JALEN

COUPLES WEDDING ADVICE

Our advice to couples getting married would be to enjoy the process as much as possible, and to try not to get too wrapped up in the stress of wedding planning. It can be a stressful time but what matters most at the end of the day is knowing you’ll be spending the rest of your life with the love of your life!”

COMMENT FROM THE PHOTOGRAPHER

“Lauren and Austin had a complete vision for their wedding day, and I was able to capture every special moment for them! The only thing more perfect than the locations they chose for their wedding photos and the love between the two of them. It’s completely obvious how much they love one another, and that makes my job a breeze.”

Kaitlyn & Lucas

COUPLES WEDDING

“On your wedding day, let yourself take a moment to stop and breathe it all in. This day will fly by in the blink of an eye, so grab your spouse, step back, and make sure you slow down and look around at the joy surrounding you. Also, no matter how much you plan, things will go wrong so mentally prepare for that!”

COUPLES MOST MEMORABLE WEDDING MOMENT

“The most memorable moment was getting our lightsaber photo. It was fun and a great way to end the day before the reception.”

TOP BACHELORETTE IDEAS

YOUR STL BACHELORETTE PARTY 3 WAYS

Follow these fun itineraries or modify and make them your own for a fun, fabulous and unforgettable night that will bring your crew closer together.

ITINERARY #1

Flex Your Mental Muscles & Bond Over Board Games

Start your night at St. Louis Escape, where you’ll have 60 minutes to beat one of seven themed escape rooms. Then walk right across the street to Pieces Board Game Bar and Restaurant where you can enjoy a fun, laid-back dinner and relive your childhood with classic board games while sipping drinks like the “Pretty Pretty Princess” and the “Creamsicle.”

If your group wants to continue the night, Molly’s, Hammerstone’s and McGurk’s are closeby for music and whatever happens next. stlouisescape.com, stlpieces.com/eat

ITINERARY #2

Get Sexy & Spicy with Burlesque & Tequila

Head downtown for the dinner show at The Boom Boom Room. Incredible performances by the region’s hottest burlesque dancers, with top-notch dishes from their brilliant in-house kitchen, will make this experience one for the books.

After the show, pop over to Rosalita’s Cantina for some margaritas with over 60 different varieties of tequila to choose from. Don’t forget the chips and salsa!

Afterwards, grab an Uber to Ballpark Village for some live music, dancing and karaoke, depending on the night. Check the events calendar for upcoming themes and shows.

theboomboomroomstl.com, rosalitascantina.com, stlballparkvillage.com

ITINERARY #3

Spark the Competitive Spirit & Hit the Roof

Spend the whole evening in the Loop, beginning with an incredible dinner and drinks at the Moonrise Hotel. Their menu is the perfect mix between classic comfort food and fine dining. They even have multiple options for anyone with dietary restrictions. Take the elevator to the roof for a fun, open atmosphere, with a lit-up view of the larger-than-life moon and all of Delmar Boulevard. Take in all of these amazing views while sipping a Cold Brew Martini.

Then, walk over to Pin-Up Bowl for a quick shoe change and some retro-inspired cocktails and late-night snacks. We highly recommend booking lanes in advance, but sometimes walk-ins get lucky, too.

Afterwards, see what’s happening at Blueberry Hill. Check their concert schedule and shuffle this itinerary to catch your favorites live.

moonrisehotel.com, Pinupbowl.com, bluberryhill.com

YOUR ULTIMATE WEDDING CHECKLIST

First of all, congratulations! Wedding planning is a blast, but there are a few key details to nail down first. Start with your budget, date and guest list since those details will inform everything else.

While we usually advise planning 12-14 months before your big day, it’s best to start as soon as you get engaged. This helps ensure you get your first choice of vendors and minimizes stress along the way. Plus, you get to save up funds and prolong the fun a little while longer. For smaller weddings, abbreviated timelines are usually no problem, but why wait? Here’s our vendor booking timeline for brides who want to make the most of the planning process and make sure their dream wedding day comes together perfectly.

Wedding Checklist

12-14 MONTHS

Book your wedding planner

Many couples choose to do the planning on their own, with help from family and friends. If that’s your route, you can skip this step. But if work is busy and it seems like a lot, working with a planner can make a world of difference. If you decide to use a planner, book them before you do anything else. They can help you with the venue search and everything that follows. Their relationships and expertise will be invaluable as you cross things off your list.

Secure your wedding venue

The unofficial first vendor to book is your venue. Once this is done, a lot of questions are answered and things start falling into place. The venue you pick will influence your decor, catering options, fashion decisions and more. Chances are, it’s also the biggest portion of your budget. Some venues are fullservice while others have a more DIY structure where you can bring in any other vendors you want. Think about how you feel in the space. You’ll know because the right one will feel like “you.”

Choose your photographer & videographer

This is a big decision because documenting your day is key. You’ll have these photos and videos forever. As you’ve probably heard, wedding photographers and videographers book up fast. It’s not unusual for couples to book their photographer as far as 14 months in advance. Find someone whose style and personality you love. They will be with you throughout your entire wedding day. As a test run, you can book your engagement session with the one you choose. This will help you get to know each other better before the wedding. Tip: If you need help with your wedding timeline, keep in mind that most professional photographers will take care of this for you.

Let us help you plan!

Pick your wedding colors

Pinterest might be your best friend during wedding planning. Use the tools around you to build up some inspiration for your wedding colors. You can stick with current trends or create something unique to you. Either way, choose your colors early because they will impact the rest of the planning process, especially when choosing colors for your wedding party to wear.

Say yes to your dresses

You can start dress shopping as early as you’d like, but we generally recommend leaving plenty of time for alterations, so the 12-month mark is the time to make your final decision. Book your bridal salon and/or alterations appointments in advance and leave plenty of extra time if you’re also choosing bridesmaid dresses. Initially, you may go into the bridal shop with one style in mind, but try on other styles because you may find something completely different that you love more. Keeping an open mind will ensure that you say yes to your perfect dress.

Establish a budget

Your wedding budget will influence everything you do leading up to your wedding. Talk with your fiancé, parents and anyone who may be a part of the budget process. Establish a total amount and break it down from there. It’s important to be realistic while still prioritizing what is most important to you. Don’t forget to think about your wedding bands, invitations, wedding party gifts and more.

Wedding Checklist

10-11 MONTHS

Make the ask

At this point, you have probably spent a lot of time thinking about who you want to stand beside you on your big day. It’s a big commitment to say yes to being a bridesmaid or groomsman. So give your wedding party plenty of time to ask off from work, clear their schedule and prep their finances. It’s time to make the ask. How are you going to ask your wedding party to be in your wedding? Do you want to give a special gift? Is it as simple as a phone call? Regardless, make the ask!

Choose your wedding party’s attire

Once you’ve made the ask to your wedding party, it’s time to start planning out their attire. What they wear on the big day is important. Decide what style you are going for and maybe pick a bridal shop, men’s attire shop or online store and communicate that to each person in your wedding. This gives them time to sort their finances, order the dress, suit or tux and have alterations made. What they wear on your big day will be in a lot of your pictures, and you will look back on those pictures for years to come.

Find your caterer

This one is key, especially if your venue doesn’t include catering or doesn’t have a preferred catering partner. Food and drinks will play a big role in the evening, adding to the quality of the whole experience and keeping everyone energized as the party goes on. Be sure to schedule a tasting of your chosen menu beforehand, too. It allows for any last-minute tweaks, plus it’s a fun excuse for a date with your fiancé.

Book your musicians

Whether you go with a band, a DJ or both, this is the time to lock them in. Great music and an energized emcee will make a world of difference in the beauty of your ceremony and keep the dance floor lively during the reception.

Let us help you plan!

9 MONTHS

Finalize your guest list

This is a great time to look back at your budget. Use your budget to help you decide on a final number that you want to invite. Not everyone will come, but be sure to factor your invites into your catering budget, wedding favors and venue seating capacity. Start your list with the people that you and your fiancé want there most, extend the invite to your parent’s friends and keep adding until you have hit your number. Once you hit the maximum number, look back over it and feel free to make adjustments. You will want to have a secured list before your save-the-dates go out. Don’t feel bad if you aren’t able to invite a few people. Your day will still be so special.

Book your engagement session

Use your engagement session to really feel out the relationship you have with your wedding photographer. Your photographer will cherish your engagement session because this is a great time for them to truly get to know you as a couple. Once you have your engagement session date set, dream about locations where you would like to have these photos taken. Then start talking to your photographer to decide on the best location option. When deciding on a location, it’s good to consider your save-the-dates. Some couples like to use their engagement photos on their save-the-dates.

Finalize your floral designer

Flowers are the centerpiece of your ceremony and add so much beauty to your day from start to finish. You might go monochrome, leaning into scale and texture, or go for bold pops of color everywhere you look. Your designer will work with you to make sure everything from your bouquet to your tablescapes is picture-perfect. Book them about nine months in advance to ensure availability and make a plan for getting the stems you want.

8 MONTHS

Wedding Checklist

Book your lighting technician

By now you’ll know what you can expect from your venue and catering company and what you still need to source. Lighting and other rentals can go a long way to dress up a plain venue. A lighting tech can advise on how to create an inviting space with string lights, add atmospheric uplighting for tables and freestanding pieces, or something more imaginative. Book time with them well in advance.

Reserve decor rentals & draping

If your venue is a blank canvas, you have a world of possibilities for dressing it up. Rental companies do so much more than gorgeous specialty linens. You can get plush lounge seating, statement artwork and even draping to hide walls and create an airy or moody look for your celebration. Reserve your rentals, or at least get in touch early, to make sure everything you want will be available on your date. Some items may be available only in limited quantities or will need to be ordered.

Choose your printer

You’ll need your save-the-dates, invitations, response cards, programs, escort cards and place cards, thank you cards, plus any other printing needs that arise. You’ll want everything to coordinate, so going with the same company for all the pieces streamlines the process a bit. There are also a lot of one-stop online vendors for this, but devise a plan early and be proactive about collecting guest addresses. Note: If you’re hiring a designer for a custom suite of materials, start about a month earlier.

Let us help you plan!

Find your menswear boutique

Suit or tuxedo, this is when to make decisions on the groom’s attire for the day. His look is just as important as yours! Set aside a day to visit multiple shops and choose something that works well with your dress and feels uniquely “him.” The groomsmen can secure their rentals now, too.

Plan and book your honeymoon

This is one of the most fun parts of wedding planning. You get to plan your first vacation as a married couple. Once you and your finacé decide on a destination, shop around. Travel agencies are pros at booking the most memorable honeymoons. Sometimes you can find travel agencies at wedding shows and they may be offering discounts. At the eight-month planning mark, you are close to building out your wedding registry. A lot of couples like to start a honeymoon fund, especially if they don’t need a lot of the basic registry gifts.

Setup your wedding registries

Every couple loves cash and gift cards. Wherever you register, feel free to communicate that on the registry. But, be sure to think about the things that you and your fiancé will need in your new life together. And of course, honeymoon funds are always a favorite. Feel free to have a mix of home items and registries from different stores. It’s always a good idea to have a wide price range on the items that you select so that your registry can fit everyone’s budget.

7 MONTHS

Wedding Checklist

Secure your transportation

For the two newlyweds and wedding party, this is the time to book your party bus, trolley or limo. If you’re breaking away from the group, maybe you rent a classic car or carriage for a grand exit. If guests are going to have to ride their own way and pay for parking, it might be a good idea to book a shuttle service. This makes it easier for everyone while ensuring most people arrive around the same time.

Get your glam squad on board

We highly recommend booking professional hair and makeup services for your big day for staying power and pictures. This style has to survive through crying, dancing, hugging and weather, depending on the day. Whether you’re using a stylist you already know or finding someone new, give them plenty of notice to make sure they’re free when you need them. This also gives them time to bring in reinforcements if they need a second stylist for your wedding party.

Get your save-the-dates in the mail

The six- to seven-month mark is a sweet spot for save-the-dates to land in the mail. It gives your wedding guests enough time to prepare (especially if you are having a destination wedding), but not too much time that they will forget about your big day. There are so many options when selecting the design. Choose a reliable designer who has a clear vision of what you want. And if you’re crafty, you can always design your own. The images from your engagement session may be a good fit for the vibe you’re going for on your save-the-dates. Keep them simple because your wedding invitations will be much more detailed.

Order thank you cards

This can seem like a minor thing but it will save you a ton of post-wedding work. Once your registry is set up and your invitations are sent, you may start receiving gifts even before your wedding day. Sending out thank-yous as you receive gifts will save you a lot of time. You will also have your bridal shower and other pre-wedding celebration gifts to think about. If you are ordering custom designed cards, shipping and production may take longer. The further you order them in advance, the more time it will save you.

With all of this locked in, it’ll be all small details and smooth sailing ahead. There are plenty of comprehensive to-do checklists out there, but getting your vendors secured early is the biggest piece of the wedding planning puzzle. Our best advice is to have fun with it all. The professionals are there to bring your vision to life and help find solutions to fit your style and budget.

Let us help you plan!

6 MONTHS

Wedding Checklist

Create your timeline

Rely on the pros for this one. Your wedding day will move so fast. Your wedding vendors have followed hundreds of timelines. If your photographer or videographer isn’t owning the creation of your timeline, that’s okay. But be sure to ask the pros (band/DJ, hair and makeup artists, event coordinator, etc.) for recommendations. Your vendor dream team will be able to help you line out your day to avoid some of the stress. If you are creating your timeline on your own, be sure to add in downtime. Give you, your fiancé and your wedding party time to breathe and have fun. After all, those may be some of your most memorable moments!

Source your bakery

If your catering company isn’t handling the cake, now is the time to find your baker. Whipping up a cake doesn’t take long, but they can only take a certain number of orders per week, especially for large, elaborate cakes. Schedule a tasting with your fiancé to see what flavor combinations you love.

Get your invitations in the mail

Don’t put this off. The six-month mark is the perfect time to send out invitations. Your guests will appreciate the notice and are more likely to RSVP “yes.” This also gives your guests time to browse your wedding registries and select the perfect gift. Using the same designer and printer from your save-the-date will simplify things. Don’t forget to include your ceremony details, reception details, RSVP card and return envelope. Adding a stamp to your RSVP return envelope will help you receive responses quicker.

Let us help you plan!

Hire an officiant

It’s time to hire the person who is going to make this marriage official! If you’re getting married somewhere other than a church, there are plenty of professionals out there. For a personal touch, you always have the option of asking a family member or close friend to do the honors.

Buy your undergarments

This sounds crazy…but you wouldn’t believe the complications that can come with selecting your wedding day undergarments. Don’t put this off for the last minute. Take your time to pick out items that you feel confident in, comfortable in and that fit you correctly. Use this time to break in your wedding day shoes. You want to not only look your best, but feel your best too! (P.S. This is a big one for both men’s and women’s attire!)

Order your wedding bands

You already have the engagement ring, but have you thought about your wedding band? The bride’s wedding bands are definitely based on preference, and not every bride wants them. But if you both are planning on getting bands, start shopping now. It takes time to have rings sized, soldered and fit properly. Give yourself plenty of time to make sure that your rings fit the way you want them to.

5 MONTHS

Wedding Checklist

Buy the gifts

If you’re looking for that picturesque moment with mom, dad, grandma or grandpa, gifts are a good way to go. You can create, design or buy something meaningful that will leave a lasting memory. As for the wedding party, it’s never a requirement to get them gifts, but it’s looked at as a thank you for standing alongside you on your wedding day. If your items are a custom order, don’t wait until the last minute. Shipping and production times are longer for custom items.

While thinking about family and friends, don’t forget to consider your soon to be Mr. or Mrs. Giving your significant other an intimate and special gift is yet another way to look back and remember the day. Exchanging bride or groom gifts is a special moment that is only shared between the two of you.

Order your wedding favors

Not every couple has wedding favors. But if this is something you have budgeted, consider supply chain demands when ordering. Similarly to wedding party gifts, custom ordered items may take longer to receive. If your wedding favors are a DIY project, it may be wise to give yourself a little extra time.

Let us help you plan!

3 MONTHS

Think through the final touches

This part should be fairly simple. Take some time to think through final touches. Doing this now will ensure that it’s smooth sailing the two to three weeks leading up to your wedding.

• Where are you staying the night before your wedding? Maybe book a hotel room for you and a friend.

• Finalize bridal gown and groom’s attire alterations.

• Come up with your favorite DJ or band playlist.

• Solidify details for your rehearsal dinner. Consider things like guest list, location, food, date, time, etc.

• If your honeymoon is booked, are all of your documents in order? Is your bag packed? What will you wear on your honeymoon?

• Finalize ceremony and reception seating.

• Do you have your veil?

• Are the speeches written?

• If you are reciting your own vows, are they written?

• Do you have your flower girl basket and ring pillow?

Wedding Checklist

2 MONTHS

Think about your pets

We can’t forget about the fur babies. If you are doing an overnight stay somewhere the night before the wedding, make your pet boarding arrangements in advance. If you need to take your pets to a boarding facility, be sure to ask questions about their vaccination requirements. If they require extra vaccinations, you may need additional time to get them into the veterinarian’s office for shots. If you have a family member or friend watching them, pack their bag in advance. This is an important thing to think about not only for the day of your wedding, but also for your honeymoon.

Double-check your timeline and finalize your wedding programs

Check in with your designer or printer. If you have had to make any big changes to your timeline, be sure to communicate that. Confirm with your vendor the pickup or shipping date of your final programs. Once you have them in hand you won’t be able to change them. This is also the perfect time to check in with each of your vendors. If you have made updates to your timeline, be sure to send them a new one with updates.

Talk with your officiant

Have a quick phone call or in-person meeting with your officiant. During this time you can review your ceremony details.

Set your appointment to get your marriage license

This is one of the most important items on your list. Your marriage license must be requested within 30 days of your wedding and you almost always need an appointment. Sometimes appointments book up fast, especially during busy wedding seasons. Set your appointment early so that you are guaranteed to get your license within the 30-day requirement.

Something

old, something new, something borrowed and something blue

This is classic and fun. Get family members and friends involved. Use your creativity to gather your “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” items. This can be a fun way to get everyone involved in the wedding planning process and bring you good luck on your big day.

Let us help you plan!

30 DAYS

Get your marriage license

Your appointment is set. Grab your fiancé and pick up your marriage license. Some couples even make a day date out of it!

Pick up your wedding bands

Pick up your bands and make sure they fit correctly. 30 days will give the jeweler enough notice if adjustments need to be made.

Book a spa and nail

appointment

This is a must! Your wedding day is approaching and you have worked so hard to perfectly plan everything. Some brides and grooms like to do this on their own and others like to pull in their wedding party for a relaxing day. Set your appointments in advance to ensure that you get special treatment (just like you deserve) leading up to your wedding.

Give a final count to the caterer

RSVPs are in. Give your caterer a final headcount to make sure that you will have the perfect amount of food to keep your guests full and happy.

Make final payments to your vendors

Most vendors require final payments at the 30-day mark. In the midst of the wedding planning chaos, it’s easy to forget about final payments. Once the final payments are made, it’s one less thing that you will need to worry about.

Update your wedding registries

At this point you have probably received several gifts and new items may have dropped. Do a quick update to your registries. This way your guests who are buying last-minute gifts still have a wide selection to choose from. You may not get everything purchased off of your registry, but keeping it updated will improve your chances of getting the items that you actually want.

2 WEEKS

Wedding Checklist

Final haircut & color

To ensure that your hair is exactly what you want, the two-week mark is a good time for this. That way you are able to have adjustments made if needed, but will also look and feel fresh for your wedding day photos.

Delegate wedding day duties

You are special. Your day is special. Don’t stress yourself out and try to do it all. Ask a few committed and reliable family members or friends to help make sure things are taken care of the day-of. Give them specific tasks and let them know exactly what they can do to help.

Prepare cash tips for vendors

Love and appreciate your wedding day vendors. They may see a lot of weddings but each one is uniquely special and they are invested. YOU are why they do what they do. If you plan to tip your vendors in cash, prepare envelopes in advance so they’re ready to go at the end of the night.

Prep wedding day bags

It’s wedding time! Pack your bags and remind your fiancé to pack their bags! Don’t forget simple items like jewelry, perfume, cologne, undergarments, deodorant, your marriage license and one of your wedding invitations for your photographer. There is love in the details!

Happy planning!

PRE-WEDDING QUESTIONNAIRE

Do you have a wedding budget? If so, what is your budget?

What is most important to you when planning your wedding?

What venue vibe are you looking for?

Rustic Elegant Outdoor Vintage Cozy

What venue stood out to you the most at the wedding show?

What are your wedding colors? ________________________________________________________

If any, what decor/rental vendors had your wedding colors on display at the wedding show?

What style of photography do you want for your wedding photos?

Traditional Dark & Moody Light & Airy Black & White Vintage

Who was your favorite photographer that you met at the show? ________________________________________________________

Are you planning a grand entrance or exit from your ceremony or reception?

Yes No

What vendors stood out to you that can make this happen?

What style of hair and makeup are you aiming for on your wedding day?

Glam Neutral Bold Boho

What vendors did you meet at the show that you feel can make this happen?

Have you found your bridal gown?

Yes No

If you are still looking for your dress, what bridal shop are you most excited to visit?

What dish do you absolutely have to have for your reception dinner?

If any, what caterer from the show offers that?

What desserts do you want at your wedding?

What is the next vendor you want to set up a tasting with?

What other vendors are you still on the hunt for?

THROWING OUTDOOR EVENTS

If you’re reveling in that just-engaged glow and thinking about hosting a party to celebrate, the spring season is the most beautiful time of year to go garden style and bring it to the back yard. The nice thing about hosting an outdoor affair so close to home is that you can make it as laid-back or as elegant as you want. The personality is in the details, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some of our top tips for outdoor hosting.

GET OUT THE GAMES

As long as you have some snacks and some games, it’s going to be a blast. Games keep everyone entertained and create plenty of opportunities for bonding. They’re natural icebreakers! Lean into classic lawn games to eliminate the learning curve. Think cornhole, croquet, washers, giant Jenga or other wellknown crowd-pleasers.

BRING ON THE DANCING

Even if your music setup is as simple as some speakers and your perfect playlist, you can work with your decor rental vendor to get an outdoor dance floor in place. If you’re looking for a lower-cost option and a more boho feel, old rugs work well as a dance floor, too. Check thrift and discount shops for large jute or bamboo rugs. Your guests will love it. Bonus points if you spruce up your lawn, deck or patio first.

KEEP YOUR DECOR SIMPLE

When the weather is gorgeous, all you really need are some string lights and a few pretty blooms strewn about in various vases. It’s so simple you can even get everything into place the morning of the party. You can forgo table dressings and opt for runners in natural fabrics instead. A few tea light candles floating in bowls of water make gorgeous centerpieces for a soft, romantic ambience. And if you have an idea of what your wedding colors might be, lean into lighter shades of them now.

OPT FOR SIMPLICITY WITH TABLE DECOR

Whether you’re aiming for elegant and classy or fun and quirky, you can still keep it simple. Thrift some colorful and tasteful table decor and dishes. If floral arrangements are a must for you, stick with short vases so that cross-table convos can continue throughout dinner. Daisies and baby’s breath fit just about any setting. Then you can send the flowers home with your guests at the end of the night, making cleanup much quicker.

GO WITH BAR-HEIGHT TABLES

Bar-height tables just naturally encourage minging. Rent tables around 40 inches high with or without stools. You can always add seating in another area and reserve the tables near the food for cocktails, conversation and canapes. You’ll notice a sense of movement as people transition between tables, getting to know each other and catching up in an intimate garden setting.

MAKE A MENU OF FAVORITES

Lean into your backyard feel and let your theme guide the menu. You can easily opt for barbeque, go with sweet and salty grazing boards or charcuterie, or bring in a food truck for a fun twist, especially if your group is larger. Focus on fun, elevated finger food. You can also invite guests to assemble their own plates and keep the mealtime open for a breezy, unfussy format. Go with pretty, bite-sized desserts for easy eating and feel free to go store-bought to save time.

OPEN CREATIVITY WITH DIY DRINKS

Let guests make their own Bloody Marys, mimosas or mocktails with plenty of mixer options. Margaritas are always a hit! Add cut fruit and cute glassware for visual appeal and streamline things with a batch cocktail. All you have to do is fill a beverage dispenser with your favorite drink for everyone to customize and share as the party progresses. For nonalcoholic options, lean into fun flavored lemonades or fruity iced teas.

SHELTER OR SUNLIGHT

Another key consideration is whether or not you want to create a covered space for the event. You can rent a tent and adorn it with sheer fabric panels, or stick with full sun and add strategic shade with umbrellas. Think about what you’ll do in case of rain and let that be your guide.

Simplicity is the key idea when creating an intimate backyard engagement party venue. A chic, garden-inspired atmosphere will be the perfect backdrop for memories you and your friends will cherish forever.

WEDDING FAVORS & THOUGHTFUL GIFTING

THE NEW ERA OF WEDDING FAVORS

Have you ever noticed the polarizing opinions around wedding favors? We have a feeling those who don’t love them have seen some that felt like an afterthought…or were too personalized to stand the test of time. Things have changed!

The new era of wedding favors are thoughtful, stylish and create memories that last beyond the “I do’s.” Modern brides are walking away from couple-focused personalization and leaning into either unbranded items or items packed lovingly into removable sleeves. Take a look at our top picks for wedding favors that your guests will love.

1. MAKE ARTFUL TAKEAWAYS.

Consider replacing traditional placement cards with something more imaginative, like small items preserved in shadow frames. Think small art pieces, special photos of you and your guests, keys, pressed flowers and greenery or even poetry or song lyrics that commemorate the day. If your guests love them, they have a cool new piece of art to display. If not, they can repurpose the frame and think of you whenever they look at it.

2. SEND THEM OFF WITH MIXERS.

Another hot item is cocktail kits. These are perfect for traveling, too. Think tiny TSA bottles and single-serving juices and sodas. Guests can use them on their flight home to keep the spirit of vacation going just a little bit longer.

3. SHOW THEM WHERE LOVE GROWS.

Special seed mixes and planting kits are a brilliant gift that is always appreciated. You can include small pots, or even just packets. You can customize them with your names and date or simply decorate them with bows and gift tags.

4. KEEP THE GOOD VIBES BLOOMING.

What do you do with all those wedding flowers after the reception is over? Share them with your guests! You can offer small vases for them to take home and they’ll use them again and again for their own arrangements.

5. SHARE YOUR FAVORITE SNACKS.

Snacks and bakery items are always a hit. Try single boxed cupcakes, small jars of unpopped popcorn or gourmet nut mixes they can enjoy at the end of the night or the following day. This is also a great way to treat traveling guests to some local flavor.

6. KEEP THEM WARM & COZY.

Chic throw blankets are a simple, high-quality and inexpensive gift option for your guests. If you’re doing an outdoor celebration, they may come in handy as soon as the sun goes down. As a take home gift, they’ll be useful in family rooms and guest rooms. For a more personal touch, lean into your wedding colors or add a pretty patch in one corner.

7. STRIKE UP A CONVERSATION.

It doesn’t get more classic than custom matchbooks. Include a fun quote or a cool, quirky design to get people talking. This one takes a bit more lead time, but is one of the most useful things you can give your guests. Plus, you’ll have them long afterwards for lighting candles and incense in every room in your house.

8. LET THEM SOAK IT ALL IN.

Specialty soaps, bath bombs and bath salts are the perfect way to help everyone unwind after a weekend of festivities, or even just a long night of dancing. Think about scents, colors and botanicals that reflect your bouquet.

9. GIVE THEM A PICK-ME-UP.

Coffee is a universal crowd pleaser. You can go ground, whole bean or even create your own custom blend and labels. For guests who don’t do caffeine, you can add a decaf, tea or hot cocoa option. Add a mug or keep it simple. You can’t go wrong with this one!

Feeling inspired to get your favors underway? Your guests will be impressed at these thoughtful items and extend the joy of your day even further.

CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING PARTY

FAMILY, FRIENDS & THE START OF FOREVER

One of the best parts of wedding planning is all the quality time spent with friends and family. Their love and support can make things so much more fun, less overwhelming and add meaning to the festivities. The ones who will be with you every step of the way will be your wedding party.

Choosing your wedding party is a pretty big deal, so it can definitely feel overwhelming at first. It’s an introspective process, but like all things surrounding your big day, it’s supposed to be special! Try not to put extra pressure on yourself and follow these steps to make the best decision.

1. MAKE A LIST OF LOVED ONES.

The first thing to do is think about who’s closest to you. Who are the people you

turn to the most? Who are the ones who you love spending time with? Make a list, but make sure this list reflects people who you want in your life now and in the future, not people you share a past with and feel indebted to. This is about starting a new chapter, so include the people you want to be a part of it.

2. CONSIDER YOUR FUTURE TOGETHER.

Think of this as a relationship building opportunity too. For example, including your future sister-in-law or a newer friend can make them feel included and be an awesome way for the two of you to grow closer during the planning process. Including your fiancé’s family members can also help bring the families together in a special way. If they have a sister or close cousin, consider inviting them to play a role in the big day. Make note of this on your list.

3. SPACE, TIME & COST LIMITATIONS.

The next step is to think about any limitations you might have. Is there limited space at the altar or ceremony area? Is there a cost to you for each person?

Think about how many people you really want standing next to you in your photos — anything over six bridesmaids is a lot. If there’s a specific number you want to include or a maximum, jot that down on your list. This will help you hone in on how many bridesmaids you can have.

4. WHEN IN DOUBT, PUT FAMILY FIRST.

Now that you know how many bridesmaids you’ll have, consider family first. Are you part of a tight knit family? If so, including your siblings and cousins might be a no-brainer. If you’re not close with family, they might not be on the list at all. Generally we hear brides prioritize family first if they’re on the fence.

5. DON’T FORGET ABOUT PERSONALITY.

Now’s the time to cross off some names. This is your day and all eyes are going to be on you. At times, it might be overwhelming and a little emotional, too. Think about those who are most supportive in your life. This isn’t the time for

unnecessary drama or attention-seeking friends to steal the spotlight. Try to focus on those who are kind, patient, supportive and will put you first on your big day. If there’s anyone high-strung, self-absorbed or scattered, you can love them, but think twice about including them.

6. CONSIDER MONEY MATTERS.

Chances are you’ve crossed a few people off the list, but you’re not quite done yet. Unless you’re planning to cover the cost, agreeing to join someone’s wedding party comes with some expenses. They have to buy a dress, shoes, gifts, pay for events like showers, bachelorette parties and even hair and makeup if you include that on your wedding day. Consider whether each person is in a stable position. You’d hate to put someone in a tough situation where they could end up strapped for cash and stressed out.

7. THINK ABOUT TIME COMMITMENT.

The next question is time. If someone is overexerted at work, a new parent

or a caregiver for loved ones, they might not have the time and flexibility to participate in the festivities leading up to the wedding. Ideally each person in your bridal party can enjoy these special days with you. The last thing you want is for them to feel burdened by this, or guilty if they can’t be there for everything. It’s supposed to be fun!

8. BE CONSIDERATE OF TRAVELERS.

Pay attention to proximity, too. Those required to travel will have a lot more planning to do and will have more expenses to cover just to be present. You’re definitely not limited to those who are closer to home, but remember to express your understanding and gratitude when asking those who live further away.

9. ASSIGN ALL YOUR ROLES.

How’s your list looking now? If you’re honing in on your final few, great! If you’re still seeing more names than you’d like, no worries. Really, that just means you’re very lucky to have so many wonderful loved ones in your life. There are also other options when it comes to providing roles on your big day. They can hand out programs, assist with seating, make a toast or coordinate the guestbook. You can have junior bridesmaids, flower girls and even multiple maids of honor.

10. LEAVE GUILT BEHIND.

Do not feel obligated to include someone in your special day just because you were included in theirs. There are no rules around that and you don’t want to take away from the happiness and enjoyment of your day. If hurt feelings arise, all you have to do is explain in a kind and honest way that it was a very tough decision, that you value your friendship or that you didn’t want to put undue stress or pressure on them.

Follow the same process with your fiancé to help them identify their tribe, too. When you both have your list finalized, have fun popping the question to your wedding party and let the fun begin!

Whether you rent or buy, suits or tuxedos, schedule an appointment to customize your look. You will feel confident that your wedding attire will look and feel perfect!

Locally owned, operated and stocked for your last minute needs.

5 OUTDATED TRADITIONS YOU CAN TOSS

AND CREATIVE WAYS TO REIMAGINE THEM

TOSSING YOUR BOUQUET

Preserving bouquets in interesting ways is becoming more popular (hello, bespoke resin pendants!), and the tradition of tossing the bouquet is falling off reception itineraries for many modern brides. If you don’t want to shine a spotlight on your single friends but still want to share your flowers, bouquet stems make perfect take-home gifts for grandparents, moms or flower girls.

DRESSING YOUR BRIDESMAIDS ALIKE

Matchy dresses do look cohesive, but you can achieve the same unifying effect with color. You love your bridesmaids for who they are, so why not give them the flexibility to choose a unique dress that suits their body? Once your color palette is in place, make a day out of it. Have your girls try a few styles on and see what they feel best in.

CUTTING A TIERED CAKE

If you’ve been dreaming about an elaborate wedding cake, go for it! But don’t feel obligated to stick to a traditional dessert, or even make a big deal out of the cake cutting moment. A brownie bar or donuts with after-dinner coffee are equally delicious. Plus, shy brides may not want all eyes on them…with a face full of frosting. Do what feels best to you!

ASKING GUESTS TO CHOOSE A SIDE

Bride or groom, left or right, you don’t have to tell your guests where to sit. There’s nothing wrong with giving a little thought to what seating arrangements might look like during the festivities, but don’t put added pressure on yourself. There’s no need to assign specific places. Flexible seating can actually save time as guests settle in for the ceremony and can encourage mingling before the party starts.

OVERTHINKING WEDDING FAVORS

Ultra customized keepsakes like glasses, frames and barware may become dated quickly and might not suit the aesthetic of your guests. To get more meaning out of the gesture, consider using your favor fund for a charitable donation, a yummy take-home dessert or a photo booth rental your guests can use to capture memories with their favorite people.

BONDING BEFORE THE BIG DAY

IDEAS TO BRING YOUR BRIDAL PARTY TOGETHER

For many brides, the people they love most are from different periods in their lives. Maybe you’ve known your best friend since kindergarten and your soul sister since freshman year of undergrad, but you’ve known your siblings and cousins since your earliest days…and what about your bunkmate from summer camp?

These women might not have much in common, but they all want to make this special time as magical as possible. And who knows? Maybe they’ll become fast friends with each other along the way. But how do you bring them together and break the ice before the festivities begin? Here are a few ideas that may help spark some inspiration.

START A COMMUNICATION HUB

With texting, email, Messenger, DMs and notifications galore, it can be hard to stay on top of things. Help minimize stress by bringing the group together and streamlining important communications in a single channel. Set up an email group or group chat to make intros and share details and ideas. To get the conversation going, share a little bit about how you met each one of your girls.

SAY YES TO THE DRESSES TOGETHER

Trying on dresses is on your to-do list anyway, but it also happens to be a blast. Grab a bottle of bubbly, gather your girls and set out for a day of shopping. You might not find your dream dress on the first trip, but at least your bridesmaids can get a feel for what suits them—and you can enjoy the fashion show. This is a great way to get people talking, laughing and posing as they let their hair down.

BUILD SWEAT EQUITY

There’s no better place for friendship than the great outdoors. Get everyone to pull together a pack and hit the trail for a day hike. You can take in the sights, get your steps in and bond over the beautiful views. Not an outdoorsy bunch? You can get active by scheduling a group fitness class, going axe throwing, taking dance lessons (salsa or burlesque, anyone?) or even some gentle yoga.

DIY YOUR DECORATIONS

If you’re the type of bride who likes to be involved in the planning, join your girls for a day of DIY crafting. You can create custom decorations for your engagement party, shower or even for the big day. It’s a great way to unwind, save money and bring everyone together. When most of the cutting and pasting is out of the way, you can use your creative juices to create a custom cocktail for your reception guests.

ENJOY A DAY OF PRE-PARTY PAMPERING

Maybe it’s beauty trial time and you’re getting your hair and makeup done anyway, or maybe it’s just the perfect excuse for a day of pampering before girls’ night out. Bring your girls along to get a second opinion on your wedding day look and invite them to join you in the makeup chair! Capture the day with plenty of pics before you hit the town for a private wine tasting, karaoke or dancing the night away.

TOAST TO THE FUTURE

Looking for something unforgettable and unique? Bring psychic readings into the mix. Grab your girls and see what the future holds. You can do this at the end of the day or beforehand to kick things off. It’ll create a fun personal memory for everyone and set the stage for group bonding as everyone compares notes afterwards. You’re daydreaming about your future, so why not share the wealth with your ladies?

100

DJ, BAND OR BOTH?

Guests might not remember all the details of your decor or even the specific songs played, but one thing they’ll always hang onto is the memory of dancing the night away in celebration of your nuptials. If you’re the kind of couple who loves to cut loose and musical entertainment is your top priority, here are some ways to side-step the tough decision between band and DJ and get the best of both worlds.

DO THE CEREMONY/RECEPTION SPLIT

To lean into the ceremonial vibe, many brides choose live music for the ceremony. Imagine a pair of violinists, a string quartet or a single harpist to make your “I do” moment even sweeter. Once cocktail hour starts, you probably want to get your guests ready to hit the dance floor. This is when your DJ can make all the difference, setting the tone for the night ahead and even acting as the emcee to keep things moving.

TREAT GUESTS TO A COCKTAIL HOUR TRANSITION

Maybe you found the perfect band that can add another layer of class to your ceremony and keep the dance floor packed until the clock strikes midnight, but they need time to set up between events. If this is the case, consider changing the tempo of cocktail hour and bringing in a DJ to keep the mood high as guests transition from the ceremony/photo session into full party mode. By the time the band is all set up and it’s time to introduce the bridal party, your guests will already be dancing in their seats.

If you want to keep your band playing through the first dance, you can even save the transition to a DJ for after dessert, when everyone is relaxed and busting out their best moves.

CREATE A SPECTACLE WITH A LIVE COMBO

For an incredible, festival-inspired experience, you can either alternate between “stages” for the band and DJ, or have your live musicians play in tandem with the DJ. Consider creating separate areas for your DJ sets and band performances defined by ambient lighting and imagine your favorite popular songs amplified by live instruments. A skilled DJ can create perfect intros and transitions as they flow through your playlist. This option may take a little more coordination on the front end, but it’s perfect for music lovers looking to do something different with their after party.

THE FIRST 10 TO-DOS AFTER “SAYING YES”

You just said “yes!” and you’re bursting at the seams to tell everyone the happy news! Before you grab your phone to share with the world, take a beat to enjoy the moment together. When you’re ready to share, start with your closest family and friends. Once your inner circle knows, you can shout it from the rooftops on the socials. When it’s time for the big announcement, have fun with your pics, videos and captions.

2. POLISH UP YOUR RING AND ALL THE DETAILS THAT GO WITH IT

You have some gorgeous new hardware to show off, so there’s never been a better moment for a mani. After pampering yourself and enjoying the day, make sure to get your ring sized at the jeweler. Having the perfect fit makes your new ring more comfortable to wear and more secure, especially during winter glove season. On that note, don’t wait too long to get your ring insured!

3.

START THINKING ABOUT YOUR OVERALL WEDDING BUDGET TOGETHER

Having a wedding budget in mind will make the rest of the planning process silky smooth. Why? It affects nearly every detail. Maybe you want to invite 500 people, but that could mean cutting corners on things like decor and table dressings. Maybe you and your other half are major foodies. That may mean hosting a smaller affair with a world-class meal. Make sure you two are aligned on what’s important and how much you want to spend. Some couples even open special savings accounts for the occasion.

4. DRAFT YOUR GUEST LIST (DON’T WORRY, THIS CAN BE REFINED AS YOU GO)

Once you’ve had the money talk and laid out your priorities, it’s time to put pen to paper. For every guest you add, consider things like cost per plate, seating, favors and more. If your parents are helping financially, it’s a good idea to set expectations on how many, if any, of their friends and colleagues will be included in your final count. You can always add additional people if space and budget allow, but keep in mind that typically only about 80% of your invitees will be able to come.

5. TRANSITION FROM DAYDREAMING TO SOME SERIOUS VENUE RESEARCH

Depending on what’s most important to you, this step could come before the guest list phase, especially if you fall in love with a venue that has limited capacity. We recommend starting broad (country, state, city) and then narrowing in on the right atmosphere for your celebration. As you go on site visits, keep a spreadsheet and consider things like weather contingency and accessibility for your guests. When you find the perfect venue, availability can help you nail down the season and date.

6. CHOOSE YOUR

FAVORITE SEASON

AND PICK YOUR DAY

Maybe you have a long engagement ahead and the world is your oyster. Think about what flowers and color palettes you’re drawn to. Consider your favorite venues so far and how each of them might change throughout the seasons. A stunning terrace won’t be a popular spot in extreme summer heat and a quaint courtyard can’t be the site of your ceremony in a winter storm. Make sure your reasons for loving each venue hold up in your favorite time of year.

7.

Give yourself some time to think about who you want to include in your bridal party. Choose people who will add enjoyment—and not more stress—to the whole experience. Set expectations early on and talk about how many people you want to include on both sides. Space at the venues and transportation implications may come into play, too. Once your decisions are made, have fun popping the question to your friends! This will bring you all closer together and make your big day even more memorable.

8. THROW AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY

Put a pause on wedding planning and throw a party to celebrate “I do.” You can keep it small and intimate or extra over-the-top. Whatever you choose, go ahead and think of it as practice. You two will get to make decisions together and join as a united front before jumping into full-on planning mode. It’ll also help you slow down, party it up and enjoy your engagement before nailing down all the wedding details.

9. MAKE A PLANNING PLAN (YEP, STAY WITH US!)

Planning takes time, so it’s a good idea to get ahead of any potential overwhelm by designating blocks of time to get things done. Once the bigger things are taken care of, start with a list of tasks (or customize one on The Knot). This will help you get a feel for everything that needs to be done and when. Setting realistic, manageable milestones for yourself will help you enjoy the process. Don’t be afraid to take breaks from planning and delegate when you need to.

10. CHOOSE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Why now? So you can bring them in for your engagement party and start planning your engagement shoot, of course! Give yourself plenty of time to read reviews and look at portfolios. Schedule meetings with the photographers you’re most excited about. Talk to them about what you’re looking for, which moments you want to capture, and find out how they can help you shape the aesthetic you’ve been dreaming about.

POPPING THE QUESTION TO YOUR “I DO” CREW

1. CURATE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS

Choose a cute gift box or tote and fill it with some of her favorite treats. Maybe it’s travel-size versions of her beauty staples, sweet and salty snacks, accessories, sweet stationery or itty-bitty bottles of bubbly to mark the occasion. Include a heartfelt handwritten note and deliver in person for best results.

2. HONOR HER SIGNATURE STYLE

Delicate jewelry is a timeless gift, so consider looking to her birthstone or favorite precious metal for a bespoke piece she’ll hold onto forever. Popping the question with personalized nameplate necklaces could be the perfect token of your friendship, but dainty rings, watches or charms can have an equally big impact.

3. SAY IT WITH A BOUQUET

Surprise her at home or work with a flower delivery. It’ll make her day and put a smile on her face. Ask her in the accompanying card and await a thrilled “yes!” Top tip: If you’re already daydreaming about colors and flowers for the big day, this is the perfect time to give your girls a sneak preview!

4. GET THE WHOLE GROUP TOGETHER

Group experiences boost the bonding factor and bring everyone closer as your wedding festivities approach. Treat your crew to a dance class, cooking class, wine tasting, yoga lesson or something completely unexpected. Once everyone arrives, reveal that you’d love for each of them to be part of your wedding party.

5. PROPOSE DURING A DAY OF PAMPERING

A relaxing massage? Morning manis and pedis? Pre-party blowouts? Winding down or getting dolled up together is the perfect time to ask her to stand beside you on your big day. Treat her to a beauty treatment and enjoy an unforgettable girls’ day out that undoubtedly ends in an “I do.”

6. DELIVER THE BIG NEWS OVER HIGH TEA

Whether it’s a one-on-one date or a group outing, high tea gives you the perfect excuse to slip into your sweetest floral dresses and sip with your pinkies up. With those pretty confections and adorable sandwiches, the moment will be begging to be shared on social. Pop the question and then pop some bubbly for a toast!

7. BE THE HOSTESS WITH THE MIMOSAS

Make your next Sunday Funday a little bit extra special with a boozy brunch at your place. Set up the mimosa bar and kick back with the girls. There are countless ways to pose the question: balloon pops, special glasses or even secret messages under their plates. Have plenty of games or movie options ready to go and let the good times roll.

TOP TIPS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE TOAST

KEEP THE INSIDE JOKES INSIDE

You want to celebrate the couple in a way they’ll love, but your audience is much bigger than just the three of you. Keep everyone engaged by sharing stories with a little bit of background and don’t lean on references others won’t follow.

FOCUS ON THE QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY

A few thoughtful words are all you need. When toasts drone on too long, it can cause the whole event to slip into a lull. Keep it short, simple and try to stay around the two-minute mark if you can.

READ YOUR TOAST AND KEEP PRACTICING

Whether you wrote your toast in minutes or over the course of months, make sure you’re intimately familiar with the words on the page. You want it to look and sound calm and natural. Tip: Writing by hand can help with memorization.

REMEMBER, MESSAGE IS WHAT MATTERS

Nervous about memorizing your speech word-for-word? Don’t be. What’s important is the meaning. If you’re worried you won’t recall exactly what you wanted to say, jot a few bullet points beforehand to keep you on track.

RISE ABOVE THE TEMPTATION TO ROAST

Even if you want to lean on humor, a public roasting session is risky. Keep it positive with meaningful memories, personal anecdotes and best wishes for the future. Grandma is listening and this will live on forever in the wedding video.

STICK THE LANDING

If you memorize one thing, make it your powerful ending. This is the part everyone will remember most, so deliver your big finish with a smile, look at the couple and invite everyone to join you for a celebratory toast.

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WHEN TO HONEYMOON: DELAY OR RIGHT AWAY?

As an October bride, I knew our big day marked the unofficial beginning of the holiday season. Directly on the heels of the planning whirlwind and the culminating celebration came holiday shopping, gatherings galore, Thanksgiving, the beautiful blur that is December, and the start of a new year.

If you think of your year in terms of quarters, Q4 is arguably the best one, but for us, all of this on top of the wedding was…a lot.

That’s why we decided to give ourselves an entire month between the wedding and the honeymoon and “skip” our typical Thanksgiving get-together. This allowed us to take advantage of the extra days off work, get some much needed alone time after all the family festivities and recharge in time to enjoy the end of the year back home with friends and loved ones. That’s just one story, but begs a bigger question: Do you choose to delay or escape for your honeymoon right away?

WHY DELAY?

More time to boost your savings

Weddings can be pricey, so giving yourself some time in between the wedding and honeymoon can help you replenish your bank account and alleviate any financial stress.

Not one, but two special things to savor Looking forward to the big day is like a beautiful daydream. But when it’s over, it’s easy to feel a little bummed. Waiting to honeymoon gives you another adventure to look forward to.

Work around limited time off

Depending on your job, taking off several days at a time can be tricky. It may be easier to schedule (and easier to unplug!) if you secure two smaller blocks of time off.

Weddings are a whirlwind Planning can be a blast, but finalizing wedding and trip details at the same time may make your head spin. If you love to DIY the planning, the extra time may help.

WHY GO RIGHT AWAY?

Make it an even bigger milestone When else do most couples get to devote a large chunk of time to celebrating their love and enjoying each other? Doing it all at once makes it feel like one big chapter.

Leave stress behind and take time to decompress Thank you cards and work will still be there when you get home, so go ahead and extend the just-married bliss and focus on one thing: relaxing as a couple.

Settle into married life without distractions Traveling together will supercharge your relationship and help you get to know each other on a deeper level. Unplug from life back home and immerse yourselves in a new place.

Don’t let life get in the way Some brides say they wish they took a honeymoon right after the wedding because life had other plans. Going right away, even on a short trip, ensures nothing can get in the way.

There’s no wrong way to go, just talk it over together and do whatever works best for you and your other half. Whether it’s now or in the distant future, there’s never a bad time for a romantic getaway. .

A Dress to Remember

A Dress to Remember

Choosing your wedding dress is a special event that you have been dreaming about, and The Bridal Shoppe will ensure it is an experience you remember for the rest of your life. For more than 40 years, The Bridal Shoppe’s stylists have helped brides feel confident, beautiful, and radiant in the dress of their dreams. With over 400 wedding dresses in store, we offer selection and sizing for every bride with our unmatched personalized service. Let us make shopping easy, with dresses for the bridal party and tuxedo rentals, as well.

Choosing your wedding dress is a special event that you have been dreaming about, and The Bridal Shoppe will ensure it is an experience you remember for the rest of your life. For more than 40 years, The Bridal Shoppe’s stylists have helped brides feel confident, beautiful, and radiant in the dress of their dreams. With over 400 wedding dresses in store, we offer selection and sizing for every bride with our unmatched personalized service. Let us make shopping easy, with dresses for the bridal party and tuxedo rentals, as well.

St. Charles Convention Center

One Convention Plaza St. Charles, MO 63303

Hermann Hill

Set the scene for your wedding. Sitting high atop the rock bluffs of the Missouri River and surrounded by rolling hills and lush woodland lies the perfect backdrop to your day. Hermann Hill Weddings is known for dramatic sunsets on the water and exceptional hospitality. Your wedding coordinators, in-house chef, and on-site lodging add to the charm of this stunning destination, with the village of Hermann just a stone’s throw away. 573.586.4455 hermannmoweddings.com Weddings@hermannhill.com @hermannhillweddings 165 East Hwy 100 Hermann MO 6504

Historical Barn Wedding

Venue-Holiday Inn St. Louis West at Six Flags

Our venue is not your typical Holiday Inn, the room was built in and around an over 230 year old barn with all of the original stonewall structure still part of the room. 636.938.3515 ext. 7756 bit.ly/3fM6Dai arind@hisixflags.com 4901 Six Flags Road Eureka, MO. 63025

Wicked Pony Ranch

Wicked Pony Ranch is over 100-acre ranch devoted to making your rusticchic dreams come true. An unforgettable venue just minutes from St. Louis.

636.223.4864 wickedponyranch.com wickedponyranch@gmail.com @wickedponyranch 10058 Pillen Road Dittmer, MO 63023

At Mia Grace Bridal we believe brides are shopping for more than just a dress; they are looking for an intimate, individualized experience in fun and comfortable surroundings. Our philosophy is simple – to help you look your most beautiful, retain your own individuality and be totally confident in your choice.

Image © Claudia Hemphill