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The comprehensive wedding planning guide for the Atlanta bride
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Surles Publishing Inc.5990 Parkway North Blvd, #10
Cumming, GA 30040E-Mail: Atlanta@BrideAndGroomPlanner.com
All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproducedor transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,including photocopying, recording or by any information storageor retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher.
For Advertising Informationcall 678-717-7786 or email
Atlanta@BrideAndGroomPlanner.com
Each business listed in this directory is solely responsible for theirperformance and quality. The publisher makes and assumes nowarranty as to the quality of the services or products represented.
ISBN 978-0-9793842-9-5 $12.95Copyright © 2009 by: Surles Publishing Inc.
ATLANTABRIDE & GROOM
P L A N N E RA directory of Metro Atlanta
elite wedding services.
VISIT:www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com
®
Atlanta Bride and Groom Planner and
BrideAndGroomPlanner.com are Trademarks ™
of Bride and Groom Planner Licensing Corp.
ON THE COVERPhotography by:
Nadia D.www.nadiaDphoto.com
Flowers By:The Flower Post
www.theflowerpost.netMakeup & Hair By:
Michele "Chanel" Franco fromthe Moore Agency
www.themooreagency.netBride and Groom:
Carra and Brian Greery
Volume II2009
Atlanta Bride And GroomPlanner is publishedsemi-annually by
Surles Publishing Inc.
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERLinda Surles
ADVERTISING SALESAmanda Blackwell
Valerie JohnsonPat Jones
Linda Surles
FRANCHISE INFORMATIONBride And Groom Planner
Licensing Corp.1-888-515-3095
GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUTAllan Godshall
EDITORLee Chadwick
CONTRIBUTING WRITERSWendy BearJune CubaNadia D
Rachel EspositoJohn JohnsonTim Lorenz
PHOTO CREDITSArtstar PhotographyAutofocus Studios
Belletti PhotographyDoug Smith PhotographyH Lytle Photojournalism
John Campbell PhotographersLynn Brown Photography
Nadia D.n.j.m. photography
Shari Zellers PhotographyWittmayer Photographers
5
Table of ContentsCALENDAR & APPOINTMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . 11-38
PLANNING & SCHEDULING . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40The Wedding Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-45
Countdown & Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . 46Bride’s Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-51Groom’s Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-55Wedding Week Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . 56Wedding Day Planner . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57-58
Budget & Worksheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Breakdown of Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-62Expense Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63-72
Traditions & Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Traditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75-79Etiquette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80-87
Marriage Licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
GIFT REGISTRIES & BRIDAL SHOWSGift Registry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry. . . . . . 92Wedding & Special Occasions
Wedding Showcase . . . . . . . 93International Bridal Affair 2009 . . . . . . 94Upcoming Bridal Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
6
Bridal Attire, Gowns, Men’s Formal Wear, Intimate ApparelBel Fiore Bridal & Special Occasion Salon 103Bridals by Lori 104Tie The Knot 105Olive 106Tuxedo WearHouse 107Savvi Formalwear 108O’B. Tuckers Bridal Shop 109Dream Day Affairs LLC 110
Culinary: Cakes, Confections & CateringFrosted Pumpkin Gourmet 115Bold American Catering 116Soiree Catering & Events 117A Divine Event Catering 118Tasty Pastry 119Celso’s Cakes 120Sweet N Sinful 120Chocolate Pink 121Absolutely Cakes 121
Decorations, Rentals & Lighting
Edge Design Group 125It’s My Party Rentals 126
Wedding ServicesPeachtree Weddings & Events 131Bella Sera Weddings & Events 132Soiree Catering & Events 133Athens Wedding Professionals 134Envi Event Planning 135G&K Event Management 135
FlowersEdge Design Group 141Bridal Blooms 142The Flower Post 143Floristique 144
7
Guest LodgingGwinnett Convention & Visitors Bureau 149Atlanta Marriott Norcross 150
Health & BeautyThe Moore Agency 155Kristin McGregor 156BLEND Custom Parfum 157Muse Salon & Spa 158
Honeymoon, Travel & Destination WeddingsHilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce 163Aladdin Travel 164Aladdin Travel 165Robinson Travel Agency 166Honeymoons Inc. 167Honeymoon Giveaway 168All Honeymoons & Romantic Travel 169
Invitations, Favors & Bridal GiftsDecoMarj 173Valerie Johnson Designs 174BLEND Custom Parfum 175WOW PhotoBooth 176
JewelryMayors Jewelers 181Helzberg Diamonds 182Gems In Art 183
Music & EntertainmentSpectrum Entertainment 189Moxie 190They’re Playing Our Song 191Atlanta Ballroom Dance Centre 192Blue Sky Atlanta 193Audio Celebrations 194WOW PhotoBooth 195
8
PhotographyWittmayer Photographers Inc. 199Shari Zellers Photography 200Artstar Photography 201Nadia D Photo 202In The Moment Photographs 203H Lytle Photojournalism 204Autofocus Studios 205Tracey Brown Photography 206Lynn Brown Photography 207Doug Smith Photography 208Seitz Photography Studio 209Terry Cavender 210Spectrum Entertainment 211
Preservation - Gown & Flowers
ReceptionsThe Metropolitan Club 221Duluth Festival Center 222Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta 223Anthony’s Fine Dining 224Atlanta National Golf Club 225Polo Golf & Country Club 2261420 Room 227Alpharetta Athletic Club 228The 173 Carlyle House 229The Georgia Club 230Vecoma At The Yellow River 231Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center 232Café 267 Banquet & Event Facility 233Eleven 15 Events 233They’re Playing Our Song 234Carl House 235Atlanta Marriott Norcross 235
Rehearsal Dinners & PartiesChocolate Pink Bridal Shower Boutique 241Anthony’s Fine Dining 242
9
Alpharetta Athletic Club 243
TransportationCooper-Atlanta Transportation 249A Formal Image Limousine 250Crabapple Carriage & Buggy Co. 251A White Rolls Royce & Bentley 251
Video & Cinema ProfessionalsSpectrum Entertainment 257Current Events Productions 258
Your FutureWendy Bear-State Farm Insurance 263FDS Bank 264
10
11
Calend
ar&Appointm
ents
12
Calend
ar&Appointm
ents
13
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30
Father’s Day
SummerSolstice
June 2009
14
July 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31
IndependenceDay
15
August 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 30
16
September 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
RoshHashanah
Yom Kippur
Labor Day
17
October 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
ColumbusDay
Halloween
18
November 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30
DaylightSavings Time
Ends
Thanksgiving
All Saint’s Day
Veterans Day
19
December 2009Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
Chanukahbegins
Chanukahends
Winter Solstice ChristmasKwanzaBegins
New Year’sEve
20
January 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30
OrthodoxChristmas
New Year’sDay
MLK Day
OrthodoxNew Year
21
February 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21/28 22 23 24 25 26 27
Arbor Day
President’sDay
ValentinesDay
AshWednesday
22
March 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
DaylightSaving Time
StartsSt. Patricks
Day
First Day ofPassover
23
April 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
Good Friday Holy Saturday
Easter Sunday
Last Day ofPassover
OrthodoxEaster
24
May 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23/30 24/31 25 26 27 28 29
Cinco DeMayo
Memorial Day
Mothers DayAscension
Day
Trinity Sunday
25
June 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30Father’s Day
Corpus Christi
June Solstice
26
July 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
IndependenceDay
27
August 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
28
September 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30
RoshHashanah
Yom Kippur
Labor Day
29
October 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30
ColumbusDay
Halloween
30
November 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30
DaylightSavings Time
Ends
Thanksgiving
All Saint’s Day
Veterans Day
31
December 2010Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31
Chanukahbegins
Chanukahends
Winter Solstice ChristmasKwanzaBegins
New Year’sEve
32
January 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
OrthodoxChristmas
New Year’sDay
MLK Day
OrthodoxNew Year
33
February 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28
President’sDay
ValentinesDay
34
March 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
St. PatricksDay
AshWednesday
35
April 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30Good Friday Holy Saturday
Easter Sunday
Last Day ofPassover
OrthodoxEaster
First Day ofPassover
Last Day ofPassover
36
May 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
Cinco DeMayo
Memorial Day
Mothers Day
37
June 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30Father’s Day
AscensionDay
June Solstice Corpus Christi
38
July 2011Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30
IndependenceDay
Planning
40
Plann
ing
Let the wedding celebration make a statement of your personal style. Fill it with yourfavorite people, food, music and flowers. It is a day for sharing love, happiness andtradition with those closest to you. A wedding is one of life's most joyous occasions.
With careful planning and attention to detail you can craft the exact wedding youwant. Use this wedding planner as your source book. It will walk you through thenecessary steps of planning, ordering and contracting for a memorable event. Thecity's most respected wedding suppliers and merchants are listed in these pages. Theycan help expertly guide you in making critical decisions effortlessly; so you can enjoythe process.
You will find your Bride and Groom Value Card in the front of the planner. Simplyactivate your card then present it to the participating merchants you frequent to qual-ify for specials or rewards. Merchants and suppliers are indexed alphabetically at theback of the book or can be found by service category in a specific section. Pleasepresent your card at the beginning of all transactions or you will not be entitled to thespecial discounts offered.
This should be one of the most exciting times of your life. Anticipate your special dayand let the momentum of this happy occasion carry on in your life together as acouple. Weddings are as unique as brides and grooms themselves. There are somany lovely customs to choose from and so many ways to plan a celebration thatmake it your own.
The wedding ceremony is a rite of passage; revered by people today and in timespast. Think of tradition as a framework…leave in what feels right and omit whatdoesn't.
www.brideandgroomplanner.com
You’re Getting Married
introduction
The type of wedding you choose will reflect yourtaste and style. Will it be a formal, semiformal orinformal event? Will you have a religious or civilceremony? What kind of location and time ofday do you prefer? Which traditions do youwant to keep in the wedding? What is yourbudget?
Planning your wedding together is an exercise inthinking as a couple. You and your groom willmake many decisions together; as well asnegotiating and compromising with everyonefrom wedding vendors to attendants, guests andparents. Remember, the bride and groom set thestandard for graciousness and courtesy on thismonumental occasion.
Included in this section is a timeline, orcountdown. Use it as a tool to keep you onschedule and stay organized. It will help assureyou that all the important aspects of yourwedding are covered in a timely fashion.
41 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
The quotations and tradit ions you find in the planner willremind you of the timelessness, beauty and romance thathave always been associated with weddings.
introduction
Wittmayer Photographers
42
Selecting attendants for the wedding is one of the earliest planning decisions you willmake. The choices may be simple and quick or require great tact and consideration.Traditionally the bride's sister or best friend is the maid of honor (matron of honor ifmarried) while the groom selects his brother or best friend as best man. Other atten-dants may include one or more bridesmaids and groomsmen chosen from closefriends. A groom's sister may be invited to serve as a bridesmaid or the bride's broth-er may be a groomsman.
The number of attendants you have will generally depend on the size and formalityof the wedding. In a more formal wedding you may choose to include a ring bearer(a child usually between the ages of three and six) and a flower girl (age four toeight). In Victorian times, three or four young girls served as bridesmaids, a customstill followed in European weddings and in British royal weddings.
www.brideandgroomplanner.com
Nadia D.
Brides were once believed to be especially vulnerable to jealous evilspirits. To fool the spirits, their best friends would dress up like the brideand the groom's friends would dress like him. Thus was born thewedding party!
The Wedding Party
43 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
The Maid or Matron of Honoris a source of support and help to thebride. On the wedding day she willhelp the bride dress and during theceremony she holds the groom's ring,the bride's bouquet, adjusts the veiland train, and signs the marriagelicense as a witness.
Bridesmaids may help the bridewith errands and participate in pre-wedding parties and showers. On thewedding day, bridesmaids mingle withguests at the reception.
my maid / mat ron o f honor
my br idesmaids
Wittmayer Photographers
The Flower Girl, generally between the ages of four and eight, carries adecorated basket on her arm and walks down the aisle just before the bride,sprinkling fresh flower petals for the bride to walk on.
my f lower g i r l
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Nadia D.
45 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
The Best Man offers the same degree of support to the groom, as a maid of honorprovides to the bride. He helps take care of any last minute details, and may host abachelor party. At the ceremony he holds the bride's ring and signs the marriagelicense as a witness. At the reception he traditionally offers the first toast to thecouple.
Ushers offer assistance to the groom, help the best man with the bachelor party andescort guests to their seats before the ceremony. At the reception they dance with thebridesmaids and mingle with other guests.
t he bes t man
t he ushers
The Ring Bearer, usually a young boy between three and six, precedes the flowergirl down the aisle carrying a satin pillow on which two rings have been sewn. Theserings are symbolic, as the best man and maid of honor have the real wedding rings.
t he r ing beare r
46 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
6to
12
mo
nth
sb
efo
re:
Set a date and time for the wedding.
Determine the size and degree of formality ofyour wedding.
Discuss expenses with all concerned and make apreliminary budget.
Interview and hire a wedding consultant if youplan to use one.
Make a guest list and begin compiling addresses.
Reserve the site for the wedding. Retain theofficiant to perform the ceremony.
Select bridal attendants and inform them of all pertinent dates.
Plan the reception. Book the location and begin to researchand select wedding professionals such as the florist, caterer,cake baker and musicians.
Research and select a photographer and videographer. Haveengagement photos taken if desired and an announcement putin the newspaper.
Shop for wedding gown and accessories and bridesmaidsdresses. Consult with groom on men's wedding attire.
Have invitations and personal stationery designed and printed.
Begin planning honeymoon with fiancé.
Begin house or apartment hunting.
Call to schedule dance lessons.
Doug Smith Photography
Bride’s Checklist
47 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
6 t o 1 2 m o n t h s b e f o r e :
Search for a salon/spa you are comfortable with.
Decide on hair style and show your stylist your ideas, make surethat their time and yours are not conflicting the day of yourwedding.
Shop for wedding rings. Allow time to have them engraved, ifdesired.
3to
6m
on
ths
be
fore
:
Register with a bridal registry in the town or towns of both fami-lies.
Have mothers select their attire.
Plan the ceremony rehearsal and consult with groom's parentsabout the type of rehearsal dinner you will have. Make reserva-tions for rehearsal dinner.
Finalize all contracts with wedding professionals (deposits paid,contracts signed).
Hire wedding related transportation (vans, limousines) if needed.
Finalize the guest list. Address invitations and prepare maps andenclosures to include with the invitations.
Reserve blocks of rooms, if needed, for out-of-town guests.
Book wedding night accommodations, if different from honey-moon accommodations.
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2to
3m
on
ths
be
fore
:
Reconfirm date and time of rehearsal with officiant.
Reconfirm dates and finalize details with wedding professionals.
Finalize wedding attendants' duties.
Plan a get-together in honor of your attendants. Select gifts forattendants. Your fiancé should also do so.
Devise a system for recording gifts. Begin writing thank-you noteswith groom for wedding presents.
Book beauty-related professionals (hair stylist, facialist, manicurist)as needed.
Choose your going away outfit and honeymoon trousseau.
Make appointment with photographer for bridal portrait.
4to
6w
ee
ksb
efo
re:
Mail wedding invitations. Start a list to track guests' responses.
Compose, design and print ceremony program if necessary.
Arrange final fittings of your wedding gown and attendants'dresses.
Prepare wedding announcements for newspapers and arrange tosend with wedding photo after ceremony.
Confirm honeymoon reservations and travel arrangements.
Obtain marriage license with fiancé.
Pick up wedding rings with fiancé.
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4to
6w
ee
ksb
efo
re:
Make changes to insurance policies, banking information, willsand other legal documents.
Select wedding present for groom.
Make sure you have all wedding accessories (toasting goblets,ring pillow, garter, candles, guest book, etc.).
Finalize the order of events for the reception.
Bring in veil or other hair accessories, ask your stylist and makeup artist to do your hair and face exactly the way you want themto look on your wedding day.
Review toast, welcome, or introduction assignments.
If you are thinking of body waxing you need to let your hairgrow a minimum of 3 weeks before the service and schedule anappointment.
2to
3w
ee
ksb
efo
re:
Reconfirm accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Decide who will be seated within the ribbon.
Finalize plans for rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
Finalize list of plans with photographer for list of poses you wanttaken during the ceremony and reception.
Reconfirm reservations and final details with all wedding profes-sionals. Provide a list of all vendor contacts to each.
Make sure clothing and accessories for all members of bridalparty are in order.
50 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
1w
ee
kb
efo
re:
Give final guest count to caterer or hotel.
Assemble your wedding attire.
Enjoy the planned get-together with your bridesmaids.
The day before, or the day of the wedding, have a manicure andpedicure if desired.
Make sure you, your parents or your groom have all weddinggratuities and checks for balances due to vendors.
Attend wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
Finish packing for honeymoon.
Make arrangements for transporting giftsfrom reception.
Make arrangements for the return ofrental items.
Nadia D.
51 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
the
we
dd
ing
da
y:
Rest and relax with a bath and possibly a massage. Eat a goodbreakfast!
Have hair styled and make-up applied.
Dress with help of mother and bridesmaids. Allow at least twohours before you have to be at the ceremony for photographs.
Have wedding gift and note delivered to groom.
Make sure groom has rings and marriage license to bring toceremony.
Take along a quick-fix kit to ceremony: needle and thread, safetypins, aspirin, tape, band-aids, breath mints, comb and brush,hair spray, tissues, hand towelettes, make-up and hose.
Have ambient music start fifteen minutes before the musicprogram.
Have guests seated as they arrive. Five minutes before theceremony, have groom's parents seated. Immediately before theprocession, have the bride's mother seated.
a f t e r t h e w e d d i n g :
Best Man and/or Maid of Honor brings home wedding gifts fromreception.
Maid of Honor collects all bridal apparel. Arrange to have itcleaned and stored.
Return borrowed or rented items.
Write thank-you notes to everyone who helped make the weddinga success.
52 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
Groom’s Checklist
6to
12
mo
nth
sb
efo
re: Discuss with fiancée date and type of wedding.
Compile your guest list.
Decide financial obligations.
Select your best man and ushers.
Begin planning and making arrangements for honeymoon withfiancée.
Discuss plans for your new home together.
Shop with fiancée for wedding rings.
3 t o 6 m o n t h s b e f o r e :
Complete your guest list, including addressesand phone numbers.
Check requirements for marriage licenses in your area.
Select and order men's attire with fiancée.
Finalize honeymoon plans and send in required deposits.
Assist parents with plans for rehearsal dinner party.
Artstar Photography
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1to
3m
on
ths
be
fore
:
Meet with officiant to finalize ceremony details.
Purchase gifts for best man and ushers.
Purchase wedding gift for fiancée.
Pick up wedding rings.
Arrange accommodations for your out-of-town attendants.
Take care of business and legal affairs (add bride's name toinsurance policies and medical plans, make a new will, add hername to joint checking accounts or joint charge cards).
Reconfirm that ushers have been fitted and attire has beenordered.
Pick up marriage license with fiancée.
2 t o 3 w e e k s b e f o r e :
Reconfirm accommodations for out-of-town attendants.
If moving, give change-of-address card topost office; arrange to have utilities andphone service turned on in new home. Ifnot moving, finish cleaning and reorgan-izing your home; help your fiancée moveher things.
Artstar Photography
1w
ee
kb
efo
re:
Finalize all details with fiancée; offer to help where needed.
Pick up and try on wedding attire. See that ushers get their wed-ding attire.
Pack for honeymoon. Re-confirm honeymoon reservations.
See to it that you and your ushers are at the rehearsal and knowtheir duties. Go over seating arrangements with ushers.
Attend rehearsal dinner.
Arrange with fiancée for gifts broughtto the reception to be taken to yournew home.
Pack luggage in the car.
Attend bachelor party or get-togetherwith ushers.
Wittmayer Photographers
54 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
55 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
the
we
dd
ing
da
y:
Eat a good breakfast.
Allow adequate time to get dressed (at least one hour prior toceremony).
Give the bride's wedding ring to your best man.
Place the officiant's fee in a sealed envelope and give it to thebest man to present after the ceremony.
Either you or the best man must bring the marriage license to theceremony.
Arrive on time for the ceremony!
Have the best man and maid of honor sign the certificate as wit-nesses.
At the wedding reception, dance first with your bride, then witheach mother and the bridesmaids.
Remember to thank the bride's parents and say farewell to yourparents before leaving the reception.
a f t e r t h e w e d d i n g :
Be sure to send flowers or a gift expressing your appreciationand thanking the bride's parents for a beautiful wedding andreception.
Best man collects all men's attire and return to formalwear shop.
Help make sure rental items are returned.
Assist in writing thank-you notes.
56 www.brideandgroomplanner.com
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mo
rnin
g&
afte
rno
on
step
by
step
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H Lytle Photojournalism
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When you begin planning your wedding, determine how much you can spend andprioritize how to spend it. Thoughtful planning and organization is key to yoursuccess in staying within your budget. Consult with both families and decide who iswilling and able to pay for the wedding or for specific expenses. Couples may opt topay for their own wedding. It is important to remain realistic, communicate openlyand be courteous.
All weddings regardless of the budget or number of guests have the same basicpercentages spent on individual category items as it relates to the total budget. Thisbreakdown includes all aspects of the wedding celebration regardless of who isresponsible for the item.
Budget PercentagesReception Facility 15-18%(includes hall & alcohol)Beauty & Health 2-3%Bridal Attire 6-7%Cakes & Pastries 2-4%Catering 18-22%Ceremony 3-5%Decorations & Rentals 6-7%Flowers 5-8%Invitations & Favors 3-4%Music & Entertainment 3-6%Transportation 2-3%Video Services 7-9%Jewelry & Gifts 2-3%(excludes engagement ring)Photography 8-10%Tuxedos 1-2%
Wedding Consultant 5-10%
The honeymoon is not normally considered a direct wedding expense.
Wedding dress and accessories.
Announcements, invitations (costs dependon the quality of paper and fee for printing,letter press or engraving).
Wedding consultant services if used.
Ceremony fees.
Reception costs. Some vendors maynegotiate prices depending on season, dayand time. January and February weddingswill generally be less expensive, as willweddings held on days and times otherthan Saturday evening.
Photographer and Videographer.
Musicians.
Wedding cake.
Transportation costs to ceremony and reception.
Bridesmaids' luncheon, their gifts and bouquets.
Groom's wedding ring and gift.
Flowers (flowers in season are typically less expensive).
Lodging for out-of-town attendants (optional).
Wittmayer Photographers
Breakdown of Expenses
The Bride & Her Family
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Engagement and weddingrings for bride.
Rehearsal dinner expenses.
Officiant's fee.
Marriage license.
Bride's bouquet, corsages and boutonniere' for
immediate family members.
Groom's wedding attire.
Wedding gift for bride.
Honeymoon expenses.
Accommodations for out-of-townushers and best man.
Breakdown of Expenses
The Groom & His Family
the wedding attendants:Transportation, if coming fromout-of-town - Apparel and accessories / Rental of formalwear- Gift for bride / Gift for groom - Bridal shower; girl's nightout / Bachelor party
Shari Zellers Photography
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Bride & Groom
Accommodations Totals
Additional StaffExpensesService Fee
Bridal Consultant Totals
Church FeeOfficiant FeeProgramsRing Pillow orBell Ringer’s BellYarmulkes
Ceremony Totals
BridesmaidsGroomsmen
BrideGroom
Category
AccommodationsNight before wedding:
Out of town attendants:
Wedding night:
Bridal Consultant
Ceremony
accomm
odations, bridal consultant & cerem
ony
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Dress or Suit
Cufflinks & CumberbundShoes & TieTuxedo or Suit
Clothing Totals
HairMakeup
Alterations
Category
Clothing
Bridal Attendant’sGrooming:
Bride’s Ensemble:
Groom’s Garb:
bridal attire & form
al wear
NailsJewelry
HairHeadpiece & VeilJewelryMakeup & NailsShoes & GlovesUndergarments
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
PersonalBouquets
Corsage & BoutonnieresFlower Girl BasketsPew Bows or FlowersUnity Candle
Buffet CenterpiecesCake Flowers
Cocktail Reception FlowersEntry or Door FlowersTable Centerpieces
ChuppahEntry or Door Flowers
Altar Flowers/Aisle RunnersCandelabra Flowers
Category
FlowersCeremony:
Reception:
flowers for cerem
ony & reception
Place Card Table FlowersPowder Room FlowersRental PlantsToss Bouquet
Flowers Totals
Aut
ofoc
usSt
udio
s.co
m
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Welcome Baskets or BagsGifts Total
MiscellaneousBabysitting Service
Children's Gifts & ActivitiesGratuitiesDance Lessons
Invitations to Children'sReception
Massages for Bride & GroomOther
ParentsGuest Table Favors
AttendantsBride & Groom (each other)
Category
Gifts
gifts, favors, baskets & bags
OtherOtherOther
Miscellaneous Totals
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Trio or QuartetBagpiperVocalist
Cartage Fees (loading in & out)
Cocktail MusicCostumingDisc Jockey
Early Setup/Late TeardownFees
Instrument Rental (piano)Microphone For Toasts
OrganistTrumpeter
Band or DJCeremony musicians:
Category
Music
music, band or disc jockey
OvertimeSound System
Music Totals
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Food
Other Events Totals
Engagement PortraitPhotographer's Fee:
AlbumsAssistants
Parent's albumsPre-wedding Bridal PortraitSignature portrait:
PrintFinished FrameReprints
FoodFacility & Décor
FoodFacility & Décor
Category
Bridal luncheon:
Next-day Breakfast/Brunch:
Rehearsal dinner:
Photography
luncheon, rehearsal & photographer
Facility & Décor
Film & Processing
Photography Totals
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reception, beverage, cake & catering
Actual CostEstimated Cost
Bar Setups(Juice Mixers, Etc.)
Carbonated Beverages
Parking AttendantsRestroom Attendants
Additional personnel:Coat Check Attendants
Category
Reception
Bartenders
BeverageAlcohol
Coffee & TeaCake
Groom’s CakeWedding Cake
Delivery Fee
Catering
Delivery FeeGuest Meal
Cake Cutting Fee
Gratuity & Sales TaxServing Staff Fee
Vendor Meals
Consultant & StaffBand/Disc Jockey
Photo/Videographer
Reception Totals
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Rack
Tags
Catering Tent
Electricity
Tables
Guest Tent
Restroom ToiletriesPortable Restrooms
Floor
ChairsCleaning Fees
Band PlatformCandles
Category
Rentals: (including all delivery, removal and set-up fees)
Coat Check:
Tents:
and remem
ber stay within your budget!
Hangers
Lighting
Dance Floor
LinensSilverware
Glassware
AC/Heat
Room TreatmentAdditional Décor
Space/Room/Hall Rental
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
At-Home Cards
Escort Cards
Thank You Notes
Stationery Totals
Map & Direction Cards
Reply CardsPew Cards
Dance FloorWall Up-Lights
Ceiling PatternsCenterpiece Pin Spotting
Category
Specialty Lighting:
Stationery:
already over your budget?
Calligraphy
Guest Books
Envelopes
Reception/Ceremony Cards
Inner & Outer
Table Numbers
Reception Totals
Invitations:
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Actual CostEstimated Cost
Growing-Up Photo Montage
Video Presentation:
Reception (# of cameras____)
Video & Cinema Totals
Pre-Ceremony
Formal Photo Session TapingCeremony (# of cameras____)
Rings Totals
Bride & Groom
Bride's Wedding BandGroom's Wedding Band
Category
Rings:
Video & Cinema Services:
oh well you only get m
arried once!
Love Story Video
Rehearsal/Reception
Duplications (copies)
Wedding Video
Hi-Lite Montage
GuestsParents
Transportation:
Wedding Party
Transportation Totals
Lynn Brown Photography
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Tradition:A tradition is defined as a practice or custom. Although the way we live and love haschanged significantly from years ago, the wedding celebration remains the mosttraditional rite of passage.
Etiquette:Etiquette is the polite or conventional manner in which traditions are carried out. Thesocial details help guide us and keep us secure that we are doing things well.Etiquette does not mean being rigid or pretentious, but rather being well mannered,considerate, and socially capable. Handle the details with finesse. Following basicetiquette throughout your wedding will help make it a more successful experience forall.
John Campbell Photographers
Rich History & Symbolism
Artstar Photography
The Betrothal:Tradit ionally, the betrothal, or engagement,is the time used to make wedding arrangements.Parents are told the good news and formalengagement announcements may be placedin the papers. A betrothal today is a pledgeto marry made out of love. In the MiddleAges, however, the bet rothal was anarrangement made between two families,not just the bride and groom. If the couplehappened to fall in love, so much the bet ter.At the t ime of the betrothal, a ring wasplaced on the right hand of the bride-to-beand a kiss confirmed the arrangement. Thering was transferred over to the third fingerof the left hand during the marriage ceremony.The practice of wearing the ring on the thirdfinger of the left hand appeared as early asancient Greece, because it was thought thatthe nerve of this f inger had a directconnection to the heart.
Early rings were made of bronze, ivory and bone. In the late Middle Ages andRenaissance, rings were made of iron, gold and silver, and often festooned with dia-monds or precious stones. By the seventeenth century, the thin gold band came intovogue. The gold rings were often fashioned into symbols of unity such as hands andhearts clasped together, t ied bows, and buckles. The romantic Victorians oftenincluded personal inscriptions such as “Ever Thine.”
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Wedding TraditionsShari Zellers Photography
The wedding ring today remains a powerful symbol of acouple's love; a love with no beginning and no end, a form ofeternity.
The Ceremony:Marriage rites have been foundin virtually every known society.The expression "tying the knot"comes from the ancient Romans,who literally t ied the bride andgroom together with ribbonbefore the ceremony to symbolizetheir joining into one family.
Many wedding customs in theUnited States are Anglo-Saxon inorigin. The word 'wed' datesback to the early custom of wifepurchase in which the prospectivegroom pledged money, cat t le orproperty as the 'wed' or securityto purchase the bride from herfather. A bride was often married against her will. To help curb this practice, societiesbegan to require at least two witnesses who would at test to the bride's willingnessto be married. One of these would be her closest friend, or maid of honor.
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Showers & Parties:The first bridal shower was reportedly due to a Dutch father refusing to give hisdaughter a dowry if she persisted in her intent to marry a poor miller. The miller'sfriends came to their aid and "showered" the bride-to-be with household items shewould need in married life.
Legend has it that bachelor parties were devised to raise a "fun fund" for the groomso he could st ill carouse with his friends even after his wife seized control of thehousehold funds!
Wedding Traditions
Shari Zellers Photography
A young Queen Victoria was the first to wear the classic bridal outfit in her marriageceremony to Prince Albert in 1840. She broke with royal tradit ion (white and silverrobes) by appearing in a stunning all-white ensemble and f loor-length lace veil.
The white wedding gown has come to symbolize purity, and the veil, modesty.Earlier forms of the wedding veil (not Queen Victoria's fashionable f loor-lengthstyle) may have been worn by the Bride to protect her from unfriendly and enviousstares. The color white, according to the ancient Greeks, was the supreme symbol of joy.
June is a popular month for marriages. This tradit ion can be at tributed to theancient Romans who named the month of June for Juno, goddess of women andmarriage, who, according to legend, vowed to protect those who married during hermonth.
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Wedding Traditions
Nadia D.
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Wedding Traditions
The Reception:Ancient societies cheered weddings because they symbolized good fortune. Anelaborate feast was presented in the town square and the entire village celebratedfor days.
In Elizabethan t imes guests were presented with small bouquets of f lowers t ied withribbons, which were called favors. Favors at a wealthy nobleman's wedding weremore extravagant: jewelry, hand-kerchiefs, gloves and scarves,often st itched with the bride andgroom's init ials. These were thepossible forerunners of mono-grammed napkins and match-books.
Wedding cakes are derivedfrom an ancient Roman ritual inwhich the wedding guests wouldthrow grains of wheat at thecouple to promote fert i l i ty.Bakers eventually made smallwheat cakes for the groom tobreak above the head of hisbride. Guests would nibble at the crumbs, sharing in their fortune. In the MiddleAges the wheat cakes were replaced by sweet rolls that were piled into a tall pyra-mid, over which the bride and groom kissed. A French baker thought to frost theconcoction, thus creating the first layered wedding cake.
By tradit ion, the groom's boutonniere is a f lower plucked from the bridal bouquet.The tossing of the bride's bouquet is thought to bring good luck and a husband tothe recipient.
The garter was first thrown in the 14th century to prevent guests from tearing at thebride's dress. (Having a piece of the bride's clothing was considered good luck.)
Saving the top t ier of the cake began as a superst it ion. If the cakecrumbled before the first year of marriage had passed, themarriage would face trouble.
John Campbell Photographers
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Wedding TraditionsThe French began the custom of "toasting" the new couple. At sixteenth centurywedding celebrations, a piece of toasted bread was placed in the bot tom of agoblet. The glass was filled with wine and passed among the ladies. The lady whoreceived the glass with the last sip, would also receive the bit of toast; and the hopeof good fortune in finding her ideal mate.
The Honeymoon:Wedding lore has it that couples honeymooning in Niagara Falls will have goodfortune if they remember to toss penniesin the Bridal Veil Falls.
The term "honeymoon" may derive froman ancient German custom of drinkinga beverage containing honey for 30days, one cycle of the moon, after thewedding.
The Victorians referred to thehoneymoon as the "bridal tour."
Trousseau is a French word meaning"bundle." It originally defined a bundleof clothing and personal possessionsthat the bride carried with her into hernew home. A proper Victorian bridewould include "12 of everything" in herwedding trousseau: night dresses, che-mises, stockings, gloves and hankies. Inaddit ion, she would bring with herenough breakfast gowns, day outfits,tea outfits, evening at t ire and outer-wear to last her for many years.
Statist ics show that 98% of all newly married couples take a honeymoon; theaverage length of which is eight days.
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The Engagement:When announcing the good news, first inform the bride-to-be's parents, then thegroom's parents. After that, inform your close family members and friends. Both setsof parents should get in touch at that point, and meet if possible. The bride'sfamily may host an engagement party where thehappy news is announced. A toast by thebride's parents expressing their delight at theengagement is followed by the groom's toast inpraise of his future in-laws. You may want tosubmit an announcement of your engagement toyour local newspapers. (Most newspapers willsend you a form to complete and write theannouncement based on that information.)
Another meeting with parents may be used todiscuss budget parameters, the style and size ofwedding and the guest list. The number ofpeople invited is traditionally divided equallybetween the two families.
The Invitation:Formal invitations utilize white, ivory or creamheavy paper stock, folded, with the text of theinvitation engraved in black ink on the frontoutside panel. A less formal invitation may beprinted on an unfolded cream or ivory card, orcolored paper.
Do not use abbreviations except for Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr., or Jr. Envelopes should beaddressed by hand in black ink. If children are included in the invitation, theirnames should be writ ten beneath their parents' names. If a single guest is welcometo bring a date, the words "and Guest" appear after their name on the inner enve-lope.
Wedding Etiquette
n.j.m. photography
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Remember to invite the following: the of ficiant andtheir spouse, parents of f lower girls or ring bearers,spouses or fiancés of anyone in the wedding party,or anyone who has been invited to a pre-weddingparty or shower, unless your wedding is a strict lyprivate family af fair. You should not invite some ofthe guests to the ceremony only and not to thereception, but you may invite guests to the receptionand not to the ceremony if the ceremony location issmall.
Response cards are placed inside their own envelopes.
Place the invitation, fold-side down in the inside envelope. (Tissuepaper is placed over the invitation to prevent smudging.)
All enclosures are placed inside the envelope with the invitation,and this envelope is placed inside the outer mailing envelopeface-side up toward the f lap.
Nadia D.
Wedding Etiquette
The proper wording for aformal invitation is as follows:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
request the honor of your presenceat the marriage of their daughter
Patricia Smithto
Mr. Terry Jones
on Saturday, the fifteenth of Mayat five o'clock
Saint Peter CathedralCity, State, Zip
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Artstar Photography
Wedding Style
Formal: Long white dress and veil - Formalmen's wear - Church ceremony held in theevening or late afternoon - Several at tendants -Catered reception - Organist, musicians or soloist- 100 guests, or more - Engraved invitations
Lynn Brown Photography
Semi-Formal: Street length or simple f loorlength dress with a simple headpiece - Dark suitsfor men - Any t ime of day - Fewer at tendants -Engraved or printed invitations
In-Formal:Bride wears suit or dress; thegroom wears a suit - Two attendants - Morningor afternoon ceremony - Handwritten or noveltyinvitations - Unique or unusual location may beused for the ceremony
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The Ceremony
In a tradit ional wedding, the bride's guests sit on the left as one enters thechurch, and the groom's sit on the right. Music begins 20-30 minutes prior to theceremony. The groom's mother should be seated five minutes before the mother ofthe bride is seated. The head usher escorts her to the first pew on the right. Herhusband follows and sits with her, along with other immediate family members. The
head usher also escorts the bride's mother to her seat in the first pew on the left.She should be seated near the aisle, with space left for her husband to sit. Thechurch doors are then closed, and the processional begins. If tradit ional seatingprocedures do not apply due to special family circumstances such as divorce,discuss the mat ter with all concerned and choose a seating arrangement mostcomfortable for all.
Nadia D.
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The Ceremony
CH
RIST
IAN
TRA
DIT
ION
1. Bride - 2. Groom - 3. Maid of Honor4. Best Man - 5. Bride’s Maids - 6. Ushers
7. Flower Girl - 8. Ring Bearer9. Father Of The Bride
10. Clergy - 11. Mother Of The Bride12. Father Of The Groom13. Mother Of The Groom
JEW
ISH
TRA
DIT
ION
1. Bride - 2. Groom - 3. Maid of Honor4. Best Man - 5. Bride’s Maids
6. Ushers - 7. Father Of The Bride8. Mother Of The Bride9. Father Of The Groom
10. Mother Of The Groom - 11. Clergy
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The Reception
The reception is the celebration of your marriage and should be a fun andmemorable af fair. If you choose to do so, the receiving line may be in place asguests enter the reception, if it has not been held immediately following theservice. This is the t ime for the wedding party to greet their guests.
If you would like a head table, the bride sits to the groom's right, the best mannext to her and the maid of honor next to the groom. The at tendants also sit atthe table in alternating man/woman fashion. The parents generally have tablesnearby and are seated with other close relatives and the of ficiant.
The first toast is given by the best man when everyone is seated. He toasts thebride and groom, who remain seated. The groom then stands, thanks the bestman, and proceeds to toast the bride, the parents, and the bridesmaids. Thebest man thanks the groom on behalf of the bridesmaids. At this t ime an usheror a close friend may also make a toast, if invited to do so. The father of thebride of fers a welcome on behalf of his wife and himself, thanking everyonefor coming and signaling for the fest ivit ies to begin.
The first dance is reserved for the bride and groom. The bride's father thendances with the mother of the groom, and the groom's father dances with themother of the bride. At tendants and guests may join in. The bride also danceswith her father and the father of the groom, and the groom with his mother andhis bride's mother.
Cut the cake just before, or during, the cof fee service. The groom places hisright hand over the bride's and together they cut the first slice. They of fer eachother a bite, which symbolizes awillingness to share their lives. Thebride may then of fer her new in-laws a slice, and the groom shoulddo the same for her parents. Guestsare then served.
The bride tosses her bridal bouquetover her shoulder to the assembled,unmarried women.
Belletti Photography
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Wittmayer Photographers
The Ceremony
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EssentialsThe groom removes the garter from the bride's leg and tosses it over hisshoulder to all unmarried men. This is tradit ionally done just before the brideand groom change into their going away outfits. They re-appear for a finalgoodbye before leaving in a shower of rice and good wishes.
The bride and groom are the center of at tention at their wedding. Howthey present themselves to the public on this occasion is important. If they treatothers with courtesy, even when dif ficult situations arise, this indicates theirstyle and graciousness.
- Be on t ime for appointments. Canceling long-standing appointmentswith vendors at the last minute is rude.
- Say thank-you in writ ing for gifts you receive. Writ ing notesexpressing your gratitude for exceptional service or thoughtful actsis also appreciated.
- Give your at tendants a gift in token of their support. Also send agift and thank-you note to your parents after the wedding.
- Compromise, when necessary, and work with others. Keep a per-spective and know what's worth worrying about and what isn't.
- Do not ask for gifts. You are invit ing people to the wedding to sharein your special event, not for what they may give you. You shouldnot list where you are registered on your wedding invitation, butyou may inform people if they ask you.
- Your guests should be made to feel welcome at your weddingcelebration. Acting with thoughtfulness and consideration willenhance the experience for all.
Here are some simple rules to follow:
Typical Marriage License Requirements:The average fee is in the range of $50.00 - $100.00, payable in cash. The marriageceremony may be performed anywhere in your state unless otherwise restricted by the
county in which the ceremony willtake place. A premarital physicalexamination and blood test may berequired. A marriage licenseis valid for a limited period of t ime.Minimum age requirements usuallyapply.
To apply for a marriage license, typ-ically both parties must appear andpresent documentation. Typical docu-ments include: Birth Certificate, Driver’sLicense, Passport, and Social SecurityCard.Note: Original documents are required.
A Marriage ceremony cannot takeplace unless a valid marriage licensehas been issued. Always call theCounty Courthouse well in advanceof your ceremony date to determinespecific requirements needed.
What To Do & Where To Go
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Clayton County: 21 South McDonough St.Jonesboro, GA: 770-477-3301
Cherokee County: 90 North St., Suite 340,Canton, GA: 678-493-6160
Clarke County: 325 E. Washington St.Athens, GA: 706-613-3320
Cobb County: 32 Waddel St., Bldg D, Probate CourtMarietta, GA: 770-528-1921
Coweta County: 22 East Broad St.Newnan, GA: 770-254-2640
Dekalb County: 556 North McDonough St, Rm G1B,Decatur, GA: 404-371-2601
Douglas County: 8700 Hospital Dr.Douglasville, GA: 770-920-7249
Fayette County: One Center Ave.Fayetteville, GA: 770-716-4225
Forsyth County: 112 West Maple St., Suite 101,Cumming, GA: 770-781-2140
Fulton County: 136 Pryor St., Suite C230Atlanta, GA: 404-730-4692
Gwinnett County: 75 Langley Dr.Lawrenceville,GA:770-822-8250
Hall County: 225 Green StGainesville, GA: 770-531-6921
Henry County: 99 Sims St.McDonough, GA: 770-228-7600
Newton County: 1132 Usher St., Room 148,Covington, GA: 770-784-2045
Rockdale County: 922 Court St., Room 107,Conyers, GA: 770-929-4057
Oconee County: 23 N. Main St.Watkinsville, GA: 706-769-3936
Beaufort County - 102 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC843-470-5319 Wittmayer Photography
GGiifftt RReeggiissttrriieessGift R
egistries& Bridal Show
s
Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry:Arbor Place Mall 678-391-2277 Cumberland Mall 770-434-2601Gwinnett Place Mall 770-497-2839 Lenox Square Mall 404-231-2601Mall of Georgia 678-546-4276 North Point Mall 770-410-2630Perimeter Mall 770-396-2813 Town Center Mall 770-423-2630
Bed, Bath & Beyond:Akers Mill 770-916-9832 Alpharetta 770-475-3036Buckhead 404-869-0457 Buford 678-482-2315Cumming 770-781-8162 Duluth 770-495-8255East Cobb 770-971-2405 Kennesaw 770-499-8863Moreland Avenue 404-522-3210 Perimeter Center 770-673-0171Snellville 770-982-6263
Fragile:Sandy Springs Circle 404-257-1323
Bloomingdale’s Wedding & Gift Registry:Perimeter Mall 770-901-5275Lenox Mall 404-495-2800
Gift Registries
& Brida
l Sho
ws
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Upcoming Bridal ShowsSeptember 17, 2009
Wedding Seminar & Tasting6:30pm - 8:30pmPinehurst Tea Room & Events Facilitywww.pinehursttearoom.com
October 19, 2009Wedding Belle’sBridal Show & Expo1:00pm - 5:00pmCentral Georgia Convention Complexwww.gaweddingbelles.com
October 25, 2009International Bridal Affair20091:00pm - 5:00pmGwinnett Environmental & Heritage Centerwww.envieventplanning.com
November 19, 2009Wedding Seminar & Tasting6:30pm - 8:30pmPinehurst Tea Room & Events Facilitywww.pinehursttearoom.com
June 27, 2009Save The Date:A Boutique Wedding Style Preview6:00pm - 9:00pmPaisley Umbrellawww.paiselyumbrella.com
June 28, 2009The Georgia Bridal Show12:00pm - 5:00pmGwinnett Centerwww.eliteevents.com
July 12, 2009Wedding ExtravaganzaBy WeddingsOfGeorgia.com12:30pm - 4:30pmColumbus Convention & Trade Centerwww.weddingsofgeorgia.com
July 16, 2009Wedding Seminar & Tasting6:30pm - 8:30pmPinehurst Tea Room & Events Facilitywww.pinehursttearoom.com
July 19, 2009Wherever, WheneverWeddings Bridal Expo 200911:00am - 4:00pmThe Fabulous Fox Theatre
August 2, 2009Georgia Bridal Show12:00pm - 5:00pmCobb Galleria Centrewww.eliteevents.com
August 23, 2009Perfect Wedding GuideBridal Show12:00pm - 4:00pmThe Retreat Of Dunwoodywww.perfectweddingguide.com
September 13, 2009Georgia Bridal Show12:00pm - 5:00pmGwinnett Centerwww.eliteevents.com
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CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
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Culinary
- Cakes,
Catering &
Confections
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2
3
4
Culinary- Cakes,
Catering & Con
fections
115
116
117
118
120
121
Decorations &Rentals
DDeeccoorraattiioonnss && RReennttaallss::EEvveenntt AAcccceessssoorriieess,, DDoovveess,, IIccee CCaarrvviinngg,, LLiinneennss && LLiigghhttiinngg
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
1
2
3
4
Decorations &
Ren
tals
125
126
127
Wedding
Services
1
2
3
4
WWeeddddiinngg SSeerrvviicceess:: PPaarrttyy PPllaannnniinngg,,EEvveenntt PPllaannnneerrss,, OOffffiicciiaannttss && CChhaappeellss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Wed
ding
Services
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
Flowers
FFlloowweerrssCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
1
2
3
4
Flower
s
141
142
144
145
Guest Lodging
1
2
3
4
GGuueesstt LLooddggiinnggCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Gue
st Lod
ging
149
150
151
Health &
Beauty
Health & Beauty HHeeaalltthh && BBeeaauuttyy::
FFiittnneessss,, SSppaass,, DDeennttiissttrryy,, CCoossmmeettiicc SSuurrggeerryyCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
1
2
3
4
155
157
158
159
Honeym
oon, Travel
& Destination W
eddings
Honeymoon, Travel
& Destination W
eddings
1
2
3
4
HHoonneeyymmoooonn && TTrraavveellCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
163
164
165
166
169
Invitations - Favors Gifts
1
2
3
4
IInnvviittaattiioonnss,, FFaavvoorrss && GGiiffttss::PPrriinntt DDeessiiggnn,, WWeellccoommee BBaasskkeettss,, WWeeddddiinngg PPaarrttyy GGiiffttss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Invitatio
ns - Favors
Gifts
173
174
175
176
177
Jewelry
1
2
3
4
JJeewweellrryy::EEnnggaaggeemmeenntt RRiinnggss && WWeeddddiinngg RRiinnggss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Jewelry
181
182182
183
184
185
Music &
Entertainm
ent
1
2
3
4
MMuussiicc && EEnntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt::LLiivvee MMuussiicc,, DDJJss,, DDaannccee LLeessssoonnss && VVooccaallss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Music &
Entertainm
ent
190
192
195
Photo
graphy
1
2
3
4
PPhhoottooggrraapphhyyCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Photo
grap
hy
199
201
202
203
204
205
206
209
210
211
Preservatio
n
Gown &
Flowers
PPrreesseerrvvaattiioonn GGoowwnn && FFlloowweerrssCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
1
2
3
4
Pre
servation
Gown &
Flower
s
215
216
217
Recep
tions
1
2
3
4
RReecceeppttiioonnss::BBaallllrroooommss,, RReecceeppttiioonn CCeenntteerrss && BBaannqquueett HHaallllss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Rec
eptions
221
222
224
225
226
227
228
230
233
235
236
237
Rehearsal D
inners& Parties
1
2
3
4
RReehheeaarrssaall DDiinnnneerrss && PPaarrttiieess::BBaacchheelloorr//BBaacchheelloorreettttee,, LLuunncchheeoonnss,,
DDiinnnneerrss && SShhoowweerrssCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Reh
earsal D
inne
rs& Parties
242
243
244
245
Tran
sportatio
n
1
2
3
4
TTrraannssppoorrttaattiioonn::CCaarrrriiaaggeess,, LLiimmoouussiinneess && CCaarr RReennttaallss
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Transpo
rtation
249
250
251
252
253
Video
& C
inem
aPro
fessionals
1
2
3
4
VViiddeeoo && CCiinneemmaa PPrrooffeessssiioonnaallssCCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
Video & Cinema
Professiona
ls
257
258
259
Your F
uture
Your Future
1
2
3
4
YYoouurr FFuuttuurree:: IInntteerriioorr DDeeccoorr,, RReeaallEEssttaattee,, IInnssuurraannccee,, FFiinnaannccee && LLeeggaall
CCoommppaarriissoonn BBiiddss aanndd NNootteess
263
for a free financial review.
264
265
266
Index
A1420 Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .227173 Carlyle House, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .229A Divine Event Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118A Formal Image Limousine . . . . . . . .250A White Rolls Royce & Bentley .251Absolutely Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121Aladdin Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164, 165All Honeymoons &Romantic Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . .169
Alpharetta Athletic Club . . .228, 243Anthony’s Fine Dining . . . . .224, 242Artstar Photography . . . . . . . . . . . .201Athens WeddingProfessionals . . . . . . . . . . .134, IBC
Atlanta 2 Day Walk . . . . . . . . . .IFBCAtlanta Ballroom Dance Centre . .192Atlanta Marriott Norcross . .150, 235Atlanta National Golf Club . . . . .225Audio Celebrations . . . . . . . . .194, BCAutofocus Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . .205
BBel Fiore Bridal & Special Occasion Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
Bella Sera Weddings & Events . .132BLEND Custom Parfum . . . . .157, 175Blue Sky Atlanta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193Bold American Catering . . . . . . . . .116Bridal Blooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142Bridals by Lori . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
CCafé 267 Banquet& Event Facility . . . . . . . . . . . . .233
Carl House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .235Celso’s Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120Chocolate Pink . . . . . . . . . . . . .121, 241Cooper-AtlantaTransportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249
CrabappleCarriage & Buggy Co. . . . . . . . .251
Current Events Productions . . . .258
DDecoMarj . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173Doug Smith Photography . . . . . . .208Dream Day Affairs LLC . . . . . . . . .110
Duluth Festival Center . . . . . . . . .222
EEdge Design Group . . . . . . . . .125, 141Eleven 15 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .233Envi Event Planning . . . . . . . . . . . .135
FFDS Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .264Floristique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144Flower Post, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta . . . . .223Frosted Pumpkin Gourmet . . . . . .115
GG&K Event Management . . . . . . .135Gems In Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183Georgia Club, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . .230Gwinnett Convention &Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Gwinnett EnvironmentalAnd Heritage Center . . . . . . . .232
HH Lytle Photojournalism . . . . . . .204Helzberg Diamonds . . . . . . . . . . . .182Hilton Head IslandChamber Of Commerce . . . . . .163
Honeymoon Giveaway . . . . . . . . . .168Honeymoons Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167
IIn The Moment Photographs . . .203International Bridal Affair ‘09 . . . .94It’s My Party Rentals . . . . . . . . . . .126
J
KKristin McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .156
LLynn Brown Photography . . . . . .207
267
MMacy’s Wedding &
Gift Registry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92Mayors Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181Metropolitan Club, The . . . . . . . . .221Moore Agency, The . . . . . . . . . . . . .155Moxie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190Muse Salon & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . .158
NNadia D Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202
OO’B. Tuckers Bridal Shop . . . . . . .109Olive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
PPeachtree Weddings & Events . . .131Polo Golf & Country Club . . . . . .226
Q
RRobinson Travel Agency . . . . . . . .166
SSavvi Formalwear . . . . . . . . . .IFC, 108Seitz Photography Studio . . . . . . .209Shari Zellers Photography . . . . . .200Soiree Catering & Events . . . .117, 133SpectrumEntertainment . . . . . .189, 211, 257
State Farm Ins.-Wendy Bear . . . .263Sweet N Sinful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
TTasty Pastry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119Terry Cavender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .210They’re Playing Our Song . . .191, 234Tie The Knot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105Tracey Brown Photography . . . . .206Tuxedo WearHouse . . . . . . . . . . . .107
U
VValerie Johnson Designs . . . . . . . .174Vecoma At The Yellow River . . . .231
WWedding & Special OccasionsWedding Showcase . . . . . . . . . .93
Wendy Bear-State Farm Ins. . . . .263Wittmayer Photographers . . . . . .199WOW PhotoBooth . . . . . . . . .176, 195
X, Y & Z
Index
Recommended