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​Let’s be honest, we love food and because it is one of the biggest spends on your wedding budget, it’s important to know all the key questions when searching for a caterer! More than anything, you need to make sure things don’t get left out so you aren’t shocked with surprises later on. We made a list of how to find your food and beverage pro so when it’s time to start the search and when you are ready to start proposal shopping, we have your back AND your taste buds! PRELIMINARY BACKGROUND QUESTIONS​ How long have you been in business? Do you do multiple weddings in a day? Have you catered at my venue? Do you charge a traveling fee? Do you have set menus? Can you customize anything on the menu? Can I see your sample menus and packages? What is the average cost per guest for buffet, family style, food stationed, plated? Do you have photos of your food items and food displays? What are the charges for kids meals + vendor meals? Do you provide wedding cakes or do you offer desserts? Do you provide food tastings before we sign a contract? Is there a charge? Do the menu prices include anything such as a water/tea/coffee station? Do you bring and rent linens/chinaware/silverware/glassware/napkins? Note: Some budget friendly caterers have basic packages that use disposable dinnerware instead of the real thing, so make sure you know exactly what you'll be getting. NOW LET'S GET SPECIFIC How much staff will you be getting for a guest count of ##? Will you plate/serve us, as bride/groom? Do you charge a cake cutting fee? Will you pass/serve the wedding cake from an outside vendor? Do they through the entire event until the end or do they leave after food service? If they leave after dinner, can you pay more to have them stay until they cut the cake? Note: Most venues require a full service caterer. They will want the caterer to arrive 2-3 hours prior to the ceremony and stay until the end is done and the venue is swept/mopped. What is your policy for leftovers? Do you set up tables and chairs for the ceremony and the reception? If the chairs have to be moved from the ceremony to the reception, are you able to do this? If my event runs longer than contracted, what are your overtime fees? Do you break down tables and chairs after the reception is over? What is your policy on cleanup? What if there is not a dumpster on site? Note: You’ll want to be very clear about what "cleanup" means and who's responsible for handling it. In most cases when you rent a venue, it will be your responsibility to leave the place as you got it and trust us, the last thing you want to do at the end of the night is clean up and take the trash out. You will want to make sure they are able to break down the tables and chairs at the end, sweep/mop and remove ALL trash including things like bar trash and florals. What do you need on site as far as the catering kitchen goes? Any special appliances that you require? Do you need the venue to supply any tables for your services? What is your payment policy? How much of a deposit is required to hold my date? When is the final payment due? When do you need the final guest count? Are there any fees that won't be included in the proposal that we should be aware of? Does the caterer have extra charges, such as a security deposit, sales tax, admin or service fees? What, if any, are the expected gratuities? Do note that tax and a service charges are added on to your final cost. The service charge, which can range 18–23%, is NOT typically used to tip the staff. Once we book with you, how quickly can we expect a contract? And if we make changes to menu choices or other items, will you update us with a revised estimate and contract? What is your refund or cancellation policy? Do I need any special permits or items on site or that the venue must provide? How are you operating under the DSHS Open Texas checklist, is there anything different being done now than before? Does this cost more? QUESTIONS TO ASK REGARDING BARTENDING SERVICES What kind of bar packages do you offer? If they provide the alcohol - do you charge by consumption or per person? Note: The bar adds up quickly so make sure you choose the best option to accommodate your budget and guests. Typically, you’ll be able to either BYOB or choose between a bar package (priced per person) or charged on consumption (per drink). What brands of alcohol will be served? Can you do a full bar with liquor, beer & wine, just beer/wine, OR beer/wine with a signature drink? Note: If there is a certain brand or type of special bottle you want JUST for your fiancé and yourself, do they provide it or can you bring it for them to serve just to you two? Can I purchase my own alcohol and does the caterer charge a fee for that? Note: If you can bring your own alcohol, will they recommend how much and what types to buy based off of your menu? How many bartenders are recommended? Can you do a separate bar in a separate location for cocktail hour? Can you accommodate specialty cocktails? Is there a separate price for glassware, ice, straws, bar napkins, garnishes, etc? Do you charge a corkage fee if we provide our own wine or champagne? Is the champagne toast after the ceremony included in your meal packages or is it extra? Will your staff serve the wine with dinner and pour throughout? How long will alcohol be served? Is there a time limit? PROPOSALS, PLEASE! After the initial interview process, you will want to gather a few proposals to compare the companies before making a decision. Here are some questions and information to ask when gathering your proposals. We also recommend telling the caterers a little background on where you two are from, how you met, and what food & beverage you might want served on your wedding day. Most full service caterers love customizing menus for the couples, so now is the perfect time to wave your magic wand with your dream menu! Don't forget it is just as important to tell them what you DO NOT want! Bride + groom name, phone number & email address Wedding date, venue + timeline (Example: ceremony - 4 PM, cocktail hour - 4:30-5:30 PM, reception - 5:30 PM, dinner - 5:45 PM) Estimated number of guests - adults + kids​​ FOOD ‣ Desired style of service - buffet, plated, family style, food stations ‣ Dietary restrictions to accommodate yourselves + guests - allergies, gluten free, vegetarian/vegan, etc. ‣ Focus on YOUR likes and dislikes - after all, it is YOUR big day and you’ll drive yourself crazy trying to accommodate a menu for every guest. BUDGET ‣ ⁠What is your budget for food per person? ‣ ⁠Is that price per person before service charge & tax? ‣ ⁠Does that budget include the bar? ‣ ⁠Does this budget include additional rental items? ‣ ⁠What can you expect to put aside for gratuity? ADDITIONAL SERVICES ​‣ ⁠Hors D’oeuvres - you may want to consider a few appetizers during cocktail hour (and while y’all are taking pictures, especially if the bar is open at this time too!) ‣ ⁠Dessert - whether it’s a wedding cake or a s’more bar, it’s a little easier for your caterer to also provide dessert (and it’s one less vendor you have to coordinate!) ‣ ⁠Late Night Snacks - it’s like a 4th meal, either to enjoy near the end of the reception, or for guests to take to-go. RENTALS ‣ Are they responsible for linens, prep tables, chargers, dishwater, glassware, flatware, napkins, cake knife/server, etc.? ‣ Is there an extra charge to pick up and drop off or a delivery charge? ‣ What are my options to upgrade/downgrade? CUTTING COSTS ‣ How can I have a full service caterer and where can I have a successful event, but bring cost down? ‣ Can I have disposable items like dishwater and glassware? ‣ If I buy my own linens/napkins, can you set them on the tables? ‣ Is it cheaper if we don't do a formal cake cutting/passing? ‣ Do I need champagne for everyone? Will it save us money to do toasts with the guests drink in hand? Before comparing bottom line prices with each caterer, we advise you to compare apples to apples with everything that the caterer is providing. Even though some caterers will have a lower menu price, they may not include essential items to serve & eat and all of those items can add up quickly. Always remember that it’s your big day and you can’t please everyone so choose a menu that you want to eat on your wedding day! We WILL make sure that you actually sit down and enjoy the food on your wedding day.

One can describe wedding planning with so many adjectives - exciting, fun, enjoyable, emotional, overwhelming, exhausting, frustrating and expensive (the list can go on and on). Thanks to Pinterest and social media, it’s extremely easy to go overboard with planning and all of the details that you want for your wedding day can add up quickly. But there are some ways to cut costs and still have the wedding of your dreams and we’ve compiled some simple, small and creative ways to help you stay on budget and better yet, save you some money. MAKING A LIST, CHECKING IT TWICE The most common piece of advice on how to save money on a wedding is to lower the guest count. Think about it… the more people you have at the wedding, then more tables you need, then the more centerpieces you need to have, and then the more food & alcohol you need, and the list just spirals from there. One easy way to minimize the guest list is to set guest list boundaries and refrain from inviting children and coworkers (and maybe not inviting your 3rd cousin or your 5th grade teacher). Sure, you can still include your friends' significant others, but maybe consider inviting others and their casual dates. You may also consider downsizing your bridal party because the larger the bridal party, the more you’ll spend on personal gifts, bouquets, boutineers, etc. INVITES, STATIONERY & POSTAGE (oh my!) I couldn’t tell you what the cost of a stamp is, but I guarantee anyone who is planning a wedding knows exactly how much it costs to send out a letter. Between the save the dates, invitations, RSVP cards, bridal shower cards, thank you cards, etc, the postage cost alone can make someone’s eye twitch. A super simple way to cut out that additional cost is to email your save the date card and include your wedding website link on it so people can RSVP right away, without anyone having to buy a stamp or drive to the post office. If you still have your heart set on a paper product, you can still order all of the stationary, but consider just ordering in a smaller quantity. That way, you can still have those items for your photographer to take those gorgeous detailed pictures and grandma can still have her invite she can show off to all of her bunco friends. Setting the tone and showcasing your wedding theme is incredibly important to some couples - just make sure you budget appropriately and if need be, find some ways to save you not only time, but money. FLOWERS & REPURPOSING DECOR Florals can be one of the most high priced items when it comes to designing and decorating your wedding day and everyone wants them, but not everyone can afford all of them. There are a few ways to save money (or at least not spend extra money!) on flowers. Bud vases are cute and quaint and by simply filling them with a flower stem and scattering them about, your budget can go further with this look. Consider using dried flowers or some fake petals to make those centerpieces & bouquets fuller, but not by overfilling your budget. Choose flowers that are available year round, or in season. If you are able to have a wider variety of flowers for your florist to choose from, they can then focus on your actual vision vs what you can afford. Unfortunately, there’s a flower shortage in the wedding world right now and some flowers are difficult to find and uber expensive out of season. Repurpose those bridesmaid bouquets and use them as centerpieces at the reception. Repurpose those ceremony flowers and decorate the head table, sweetheart table, cake table, welcome table, etc. The flowers are already there, so let’s find a place to display them after your “I Do’s”. Candles are your best friend as they tend to be inexpensive and available anywhere and they add that one extra romantic touch to any table, any bar, any aisle, anything! HELP! PLEASE. Asking for help is never a sign of weakness - it’s one of the bravest things you can do, and you never know what people will do until you ask. It can be as simple as asking to borrow accessories instead of buying them (hey, this can be your “something borrowed”). You may consider asking your friends and family members to help out with the wedding. Maybe you know someone talented who might be able to do your hair and makeup, or someone who can design your stationery, or just as simple as someone who can provide lunch & refreshments for the bridal suite. One or two favors from others could save you some money in the long run. You could also consider asking a trusted friend or valued family member to officiate your big day. It can in turn, be a big savings for you, and it can also be a sentimental and heart touching memory for both you and your partner, as well as for your officiant. DRUNK IN LOVE Another way to save some money is to limit the bar and stick to beer and wine. If you want to include liquor, you can always add on a few signature cocktails that are fan favorites, but by limiting the amount and quantities of the alcohol, you can save a lot of money (and save your guests from a possible hangover). A lot of couples like the idea of a champagne toast at the reception, but if you don’t have a lot of champagne drinkers, just stick to a drink in hand toast which allows your guests to actually drink what they want, rather than wasting money on champagne that people may or may not drink. When it comes to purchasing alcohol, check out your local wholesalers and purchase alcohol in bulk (as some will offer a discount if you buy by the case vs per bottle). Also, most of the retailers also have a buyback program, in which you can return unopened cases of beer & bottles of wine and alcohol - you’ll just need to provide an original receipt, possibly pay a restocking fee and return the alcohol in its original/unused packaging. FIRST COME LOVE, THEN COMES CAKE As much as wedding cakes are beautiful and traditional, they tend to be pricey and sometimes wasteful (sadly, we’ve seen a lot of cakes get tossed at the end of the reception). If you want that elaborate, fancy, 4 tiered wow-factor cake, go for it - but you can inquire with your baker about making a few of the tiers with styrofoam and still having them decorate it with icing so your guests don’t know the difference! The traditional cake cutting is still a thing, but you can save a lot of money by just ordering a small cake to cut (and smash in eachothers faces) and then ordering sheet cakes for all of your guests. Cakes are typically cut in the kitchen anyways, so no one will ever know what it looked like before it reaches their mouth! FORGO THE FAVORS Many couples are forgoing the favors and it can be a real money saver if you decide against them. Not only are favors another added cost, but more times than not, they are forgotten by guests at the end of the night and in turn, these thoughtful gifts turn into a big waste of money. If you absolutely want to offer a favor for guests to take home at the end of the night, you could turn your centerpieces or creative escort cards into favors (double the use without double the cost). SO WHAT’CHA WANT You can still have the wedding of your dreams without dismissing all of your ideas - you may just want to put a cost saving spin on some of those items. These can be as simple as using Uber or Lyft codes vs renting a shuttle, or selecting a DJ instead of a band, or offering a selfie station rather than splurging on photo booth rental. Know your budget. Know what you can’t live without. Know your guests and ask yourself “are my guests to notice if I don’t have ____”. It’s easy to go overboard with wedding planning and all of the wedding details that are in trend. But at the end of the day, be true to yourself, be true to your budget, and remember, this is the first day of the rest of your life - let’s get it started off on the right foot (without going into debt). Photography Contributions: @greengirlatx | @sarahtribettphoto | @britnideanphotography | @juliasoniat | @featherandtwine

April and Pablo had a gorgeous tented backyard wedding at the private residences of their family and friends!

Picturing the vision and layout of your wedding reception can be exciting and daunting at the same time, especially when thinking about all of the details coming together. It’s often challenging to pass the torch and turn to the experts to help bring your wedding dreams to life, but when it comes to linen sizes and knowing what you need for each table, that’s where the experts come in. Choosing linen sizes can be confusing initially, especially if it’s not something you’ve ever done before. So before you grab the calculator, we’ve created a simple table linen size guide, to lead you into making those perfect sizing selections. Now all you have to do is select the perfect fabric & texture! TABLE TYPES The first thing you’ll want to do is confirm which table types you’ll need, how many of each one you’ll need, and confirm the purpose of each one. There’s a lot of table size options out there (and trust us, it can be overwhelming!) so we are going to focus in on the 3 most used - banquet table, round table, cocktail table BANQUET TABLE Banquet tables are very popular as they can be used for a variety of things, such as welcome tables, buffet and beverage station tables, cake or dessert tables, guest seating, etc. When discussing rectangular tables, length refers to the longer edge of the table measured in feet and width refers to the shorter edge measured in inches (example is 6’x30”). Both length and width of rectangular linens, however, are measured in inches (example is 90” x 132”). A standard banquet table is a 6 foot table or a 8 foot table 6ft table | 6’ by 30” | 90” x 132” linen 8ft table | 8’ by 30” | 90” x 156” linen​ Info table courtesy of BBJ Linen ROUND TABLES Round tables are also super popular as they can be used for a variety of things, such as guest seating, cake tables, champagne tower tables, memory tables When discussing round tables, diameter is the distance from one end of the table to the other, through the center of the table, and is measured in inches (example is 60” round).A standard round table is a 4 foot round, 5 foot round or a 6 foot round 4ft table | 48” round table | 108” linen 5ft table | 60” round table | 120” linen 6ft table | 72” round table | 132” linen ​ Info table courtesy of BBJ Linen HIGH COCKTAIL TABLES cocktail tables are smaller round tables and are perfectly sized to be used during cocktail hour for guests to have a place to set their drink and appetizer A standard cocktail table comes in either a 30” round or 36” round and the size of the linens can vary depending on the height, and whether or not you want the linens to just lay flat to the ground, or be tied around the table pole. When sashing a cocktail table, we recommend choosing a linen one size larger because when the linen is sashesd, it lifts up slightly from the bottom, exposing the metal base of the table (so the extra fabric will help to hide the table legs). 30” Round | 108” linen | linen lays flat to the ground 30” Round | 120” linen | linen to be tied at pole 36” Round | 120” linen | linen lays flat to the ground 36” Round | 132” linen | linen to be tied at pole PRO TIP: If you are trying to decide whether to tie or not to tie cocktail table linen, consider the overall function and overall vision for the table. Some brides choose to tie a sash around the cocktail table to keep the linens from blowing in the breeze (great to consider if these tables will be set up outside for cocktail hour). Others chose to tie a sash, or greenery or flowers around the base to tie in their wedding design (another great way to add those personal touches into the day). But other brides like the clean and basic look of a cocktail table and that’s perfectly fine as well. Info table courtesy of BBJ Linen TABLE RUNNERS Table runners have quickly become popular in weddings, whether you put them down the center of your head table or add a little flair to your guest rounds. They are also another personal design choice as there’s a lot to choose from, as some are longer, some are shorter, some are wider and some are thinner. Before you decide on the size, color and texture, consider the width of the table vs the width of the runner and confirm what items will be placed on it, such as decor, flowers, candlesticks and table top items to make sure everything is laid out exactly as you envision. Photography: Yona Shaw | Andy & Carrie | Feather & Twine | Dani Quiroz | Moodyography Info Tables: BBJ Linen

We’ve come a long way since PRIDE was first celebrated 50+ years ago, and merging LGBTQ+ couples and weddings is another milestone to honor & celebrate. Many couples, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, etc are searching for unique ways to showcase their love at their wedding and it’s safe to say, all rules are out. A wedding is all about celebrating love between one another, so let’s toss out some traditions, bring in personalities and ruffle some feathers. Here are some ways we can reinvent traditions for LGBTQ+ weddings, now and forever. PROPOSAL + ENGAGEMENT RINGS For some couples, the traditional proposal where one proposes to another is still quite common. But for others, each may want a chance to ask for a hand in marriage, whether it happens on the same day or not. And for some, they just decide together that they want to be married and no proposal happens. More and more same-sex couples elect to buy engagement rings for eachother, in turn, allowing both to wear their own ring before the wedding. You can decide to choose matching rings or matching wedding bands, or go completely customizable to showcase each one’s style. COMBINED PRE-WEDDING CELEBRATIONS You may find you and your significant other with a lot of friends in common, so feel free to mix in and combine them all into any or all pre-wedding parties. You can name the parties whatever you’d like, and invite whoever you like without regard to gender or wedding party side. Whether it’s a couple’s shower or bachelorette/bachelor party, include them all because the more the marry(ier)! WEDDING PARTY Forget about being all matchy-matchy in terms of a wedding party and consider asking a variety of people that support you and your relationship. The traditional gender-specific roles of best man and maid of honor and bridesmaids and groomsmen can now be a mix of genders, sexual orientations, etc. WALKING DOWN THE AISLE Let’s face it, you both have to walk down the aisle eventually, so get creative with how you want to do it that makes sense to you. You can opt to walk down the aisle together, or you can each walk down separately with a parent or friend, or you can both be standing there to greet all of your guests when they walk down the aisle. Whatever way you choose, will make the most sense to you and no one will know the difference. CEREMONY VOWS Make your vows your own - it’s your chance to be creative and declare your love for one another. Consider expressing why your partner is special to you, why you want to marry them, and express your love and commitment with no boundaries. CHANGE YOUR NAME The question of who takes who’s name after the big day is one of the biggest traditions you can change. Some couples decide to keep their own name, and some decide to hyphen names, but some decide to blend the two names together to create a customized new name that is unique and special to you. Whatever way you choose to go, just needs to be the best decision for you. WHO PAYS Traditionally, the bride's parents are financially responsible for the wedding, however now, more and more couples are paying for their own wedding themselves, or both sets of parents are chipping in equally. We encourage you to have this conversation early on, so there’s no surprises or tension down the road. DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY! At the end of the day, your wedding should be a celebration and it doesn’t matter where, how, who, why, what you decide to do to honor and showcase your love to each other. Just remember and know that you can choose to spin the “do’s and don’ts” and you can opt to customize your own traditions and rules. Photography: @mainsqueezephotography | @kirstenhollidayphoto

Whatta man, whatta man, whatta man, whatta mighty good man! Gotta say it again now! It’s an easy assumption that the wedding is all about the little girl who’s been dreaming about her wedding since she was 10 years old or the always a bridesmaid, but now a blushing bride. Much to our surprise, a wedding can also be a man’s man’s world. We’re here to give a shout out to those guys in the wedding world, to the little boys who grew up to be a groom and husband. Let’s acknowledge and incorporate their style, their personality, their hobbies and their wants into his perfect wedding day! THE SHARP DRESSED MAN The groom’s wedding attire doesn’t have to be basic and boring - it can make a statement, bring personality and represent him on the most important day of his life. Whether you are selecting a classic tux, a casual suit, a laid back pressed jean look, there’s plenty of accessories that can drastically change the vibe and look of the attire. Not only can these add to your overall look, but your photographer will love capturing these items for detail shots! ​ Neckwear - A tie is the simplest way to jazz up a man’s attire and is almost a must-have when it comes to your overall wedding look. The options are endless when it comes to fabric, color, style, patterns, themes, etc.If you're all about sporting bold groom accessories, a statement or novelty print will take your suit to the next level. Cufflinks - small, but mighty and can be as simple, traditional and classy as can be, or you can find the perfect novelty pair to highlight your personality. Socks - a must-have item in your wedding wardrobe and one of the easiest ways to add your own personal style to your look. And as socks are easily hidden, you can get as wild as you want with them by showcasing your favorite sports team, superhero, food, pattern, etc. (plus it’s a super easy gift to give to your guys!). Additional Accessories - a few other accessories that you can wear on your wedding day include suspenders, belt, shoes, pocket knife, pocket watch, wallet, tie clips, pocket square, hat, etc. BOYS WILL BE BOYS! Weddings don’t have to be stuffy and boring - now is the time to make bold statements and incorporate some unique trends that will be sure to stand out and allow for some fun and games to come into play! Flower Boys | A new wedding trend that we can’t get enough of is flower boys. Unite your college boys, hand them a fanny pack filled with flower petals, and let them set the stage for your wedding by dancing their way down the aisle to you & your forever! Backyard Games | A little friendly competition never hurt anyone, so gather up some of your favorite tailgate games and bring them to your wedding. Guests will love the interaction and breath of fresh air by tossing around cornhole bags, stacking up jenga and throwing some dice at yardzee. Garter Toss | Football fan? Then toss the garter on a football for a creative twist on the tradition Cigar Roller | Once all of the traditions are complete - the vows, the formal pictures, the dinner, the champagne toast, the first dance, the cake cutting, it’s now time to toss those jackets off, roll up the sleeves & roll up some cigars! A live cigar roller makes for the perfect ending to a memorable wedding that guests will remember for years to come. So grab the guys & enjoy some fresh premium cigars under the stars! Getaway Car | Make a statement and ride away in style! There’s several options beyond a limo, including a vintage classic car, an antique truck, a pedi-cab, an electronic moped or a horse drawn carriage! “THE WAY TO A MAN’S HEART IS THROUGH HIS STOMACH” Two of the must-haves for an enjoyable wedding reception are catering & cocktails, so let’s incorporate some fun and unique options for both the bar and bites that showcase the groom! Bar Ideas “His Signature Drink” - These should be all about what you enjoy most, whether it’s tequila, tea, bourbon or basil, feel free to get fancy with those signature cocktails and don’t forget the custom cocktail name, speciality glassware and garnish to put the perfect touch on your porch pounder! Personalized Ice Cubes - Freezing and popping up everywhere are customizable, personalized & monogrammed ice cubes that can be served in your cocktails! It’s super unique and a wow factor, and we guarantee your guests will love it (and will be going back for another)! Tasting Flights - A lot of drinking is done on the wedding day, and another way to take that bar to the next level is to offer tasting flights during the reception. You can choose beer or whiskey (or hey, even wine) and it’s a unique way to showcase and sample some of your favorites (and maybe even local favorites) for you and your guests​. Food Ideas Grooms Cake - A traditional wedding cake is usually a continuation of the wedding day’s theme or aesthetic, but a groom’s cake is all about the man of the hour! Designed with ONLY the groom in mind, a groom’s cake is the best way to honor and showcase his interests, personality and favorite flavors. It’s not a must have, but it’s a real winner in our books! Late Night Snacks - aka the Taco Bell 4th meal (ok it doesn't have to be Taco Bell), but offering a late night snack for guests to munch on after a few rounds of drinks, is a great end to the night! Whether it’s pizza, honey butter chicken biscuits, fries, breakfast tacos, etc - spoil that hubby by including his favorite guilty pleasures! Photography: Tim Waters | Feather & Twine | Moodyography | Two Pair Photo | Andy + Carrie | The Teagues | Sarah KJ Photography | Tolman Media | Dani Quiroz ​

Wedding planning comes with lots of details to discuss and requires lots of decisions to be made, and some of those choices are easier to make than others. Deciding whether to invite children to your wedding is one of the most challenging guest list questions that many couples face. There can be a variety of reasons not to invite kiddos to your wedding day, and if you are wanting a child-free celebration, you are entitled to get that as your wedding guest list is ultimately up to you. It can certainly become a tricky (and even an awkward) conversation starter and finding the right words to say can be a daring task. We’ve gathered some important etiquettes of what to do (and what not to do) and how to bring up the topic to those on your guest list. We’ve also compiled some of our favorite statements to simply ask for a kid-free wedding day. What To Do! Do Properly and Carefully Address Your Wedding Invitations Make it clear and bold from the start that your wedding is adults only. How? Address each invitation to exactly those invited, otherwise some guests with children might assume their whole family is welcome. If you're sending out more formal invitations with both an outer envelope and an inner envelope, you can be extra direct about the specific people invited. The outer envelope features the guest's mailing address, while the inner envelope includes the title and last name of each guest. If you don't have an inner envelope, you'll need to be as clear as possible on the outer envelope. You can also go the extra mile and write in their exact names on the response card (the same way you addressed them on the outer envelope). Then all they'll have to do is check "will attend" or "will not attend" on the RSVP card. That way, it will be obvious only "Mr. and Mrs. Texas" are invited. If you are using an e-RSVP, allow the drop-down button only for however many are invited, rather than allowing guests to select their own RSVP count. Do Mention It on Your Wedding Website Your wedding website is a place to share important wedding info, including the basics and additional details such as registries, transportation options, dress code and more. That makes it a welcoming place to add in a note about keeping your day adults-only before Some couples go the extra mile for their friends and family and find alternative services for the littles, so if you are recommending any babysitting options in the area or have made prior arrangements, (which is a very thoughtful touch), you can add those details to your website as well. Do Have a Flower Girl and Ring Bearer at the Ceremony (If You Want TO AND If It Makes Sense To You) Even though you may not be inviting additional kids to your wedding reception, you may still decide to have flower girls, ring bearers and junior attendants at your wedding ceremony. The tricky part is then, if you want them at the ceremony and not at the reception, they'll feel like they're missing out on the fun part (they're kids after all). In that case, it's good to come up with a plan to treat them after the ceremony or cocktail hour. You could hire a professional babysitting service to supervise in a nearby space or separate room at your wedding reception site. You can then encourage your sitter to plan special activities, games, foods, etc to keep those kids entertained all evening long. Do Reach Out Personally To Anyone Who May Assumes Their Kids Are Invited It's normal to start hearing from friends & family members who are questioning why their kids and your younger cousins, nieces and nephews aren't allowed to come. It can become a sticky subject, but by addressing the issue right away, you can be direct and explain the situation. Unfortunately, you can't invite everyone you'd like. You may opt to blame it on budget and venue constraints, which could potentially avoid hurt feelings. Just remember, you don't have to give a lengthy explanation and let’s face it, you're not going to please everyone anyways, but it's okay to say a kid-free wedding is a personal decision you've made, and leave it at that. Hopefully at the end of the day, your friends and family members will honor your request without the drama. What NOT To Do! Don't Just Print "Adults Only" on the Invitations You shouldn't feel guilty for keeping your wedding a kid-free zone, but you may want to sugar coat your request rather than just explicitly making it the front & center of the invitation. Requesting to have a kid-free wedding can be a very sensitive issue for some invited guests, especially out-of-town family members, future in-laws and close friends with littles. For a more respectful and direct approach, ask your immediate family, wedding party members and friends to spread the word to guests by word of mouth so they have lots of time to secure childcare. If you think your friends and family members will need additional time to find alternative assistance for their children, mention it to them earlier on via phone or email, or send out your wedding invites a little earlier on so there’s plenty of time for all. Don't Make It an "Adults-Mostly" Reception While you can have children in your wedding party and still have an adults-only reception, be mindful not to bend the rules for other people with children. If you let some loved ones bring their families and not others, it might look like you hand-selected which children were and weren't invited, which could lead to a pretty uncomfortable situation. Inviting all children only to the ceremony probably won't work either, since they might get upset having to say good-bye to their parents or if they see other guests going to the party when they have to go home. If you can get away with not having any children in the wedding completely, that may be the simplest and straightforward way, so there’s no red flags on the day of. Don't Back Down Even if you've properly addressed the invites, spread the news by word of mouth and posted a request on your website, be prepared to get some pushback. Just remember, like with other decisions you're making, this is your wedding day and you and your fiance get to decide who's invited to the wedding—end of story.. If there are upset parents, address their concern with sensitivity, but don't back down. If you have a truly angry guest on your hands (and their happiness means a great deal to you), it's a kind gesture to look into hiring a babysitter to watch their children at home for the duration of the entire wedding, ceremony included. At the end of the day, the best you can do is be thoughtful and helpful to those guests with kids. Our Favorite Short & Sweet Statements Please join us for an adult reception. Adult (18 and older) reception to follow. We respectfully request no children under 18 (or whatever age you decide) at the reception. Although we love your little ones, this is an adult only celebration. The couple requests that this be an adults-only reception. Please celebrate with us at an adults-only reception immediately following the ceremony. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate children – thank you for your understanding. Our Favorite Space & Budget Is Limited Statements ____ amount of seats have been reserved in your honor. Please let us know if you will be joining us! Due to limited venue space, adults only please. Due to budget/space limitations, we are unable to extend the invitation to children Although we love your children, we regretfully cannot accommodate them at the venue due to restricted numbers. Although we adore your children, due to budget/space constraints we ask that only adults attend. Regrettably our chosen venue is unable to accommodate children. Professional babysitting will be provided at the hotel (if that’s what you decide to do). Our Favorite Personalized & Parents Need a Night Off Statements We’d love to have (you can add in their kids names) there, but unfortunately we’re limited by budget/space constraints. We hope you can still make it. To allow all wedding guests, including parents, a night of relaxation and uninhibited revelry, we respectfully ask that no children attend the reception. We love your kids but thought you might like a night off. Adults only please! To give all our guests the opportunity to celebrate without having to worry about little eyes and ears, we politely request no children. We hope you will understand our decision to make the wedding children-free, and take the opportunity to let your hair down and celebrate in style! To allow all guests to relax and enjoy themselves, we have chosen to make our special day adults only. We thank you for your understanding. Our Favorite Immediate Family or Newborn Only Statements Children of immediate family only please. Respectfully, an adult occasion (18+). Infants under 12 months welcome. Due to limited numbers, we hope you appreciate that children are only invited if named. Unfortunately we are only able to accommodate children in the wedding party at our reception. We wish we could include all children, but are unfortunately only able to invite immediate family. Due to necessity rather than choice, it is children of immediate family only. We hope you understand and enjoy your night off! Unfortunately due to space limitations, we are having an adults-only reception. The only children attending are those who are part of our wedding party. If anyone needs help with making arrangements for child care, please let us know and we will do our best to assist. Photography: @barefoottim @caitlinrosephoto @sarahtribettphoto @marisavasquezphoto

So everything about your wedding day is planned right down to the last detail. You have the venue, the dress, the first dance song, the table assignments, the rings, the registry, the vows (okay, maybe you're not entirely done with the vows). But, before you head toward the finish line, there's one thing that even I, as a wedding planner, at my own wedding, almost forgot. A thank you gift for the people who've been there since day one - your parents. A wedding gift is one of the best ways to thank your parents for everything they've done to help get you down the aisle - their wisdom, guidance, support, and perhaps even their wallet. Of course, there's no right or wrong way to say thank you. Honestly, it truly is the thought that counts. But because you know them best, you can choose a personal and meaningful gift, whether it relates to their interests and hobbies or is something more sentimental. Not sure where to start, how much to spend, or when to give the gift? Here are a few gift ideas that are perfect for any parent and guaranteed to make saying "thank you" a memorable event. ​​ ​ 1. PERSONALIZED (DAY OF WEDDING ACCESSORIES) Whether you want them to have something to wear to your wedding to enhance their wedding day attire or want to give them an accessory they'll wear forever, there is a wide range of options to choose from: For the Moms - personalized handkerchief, necklace, earrings, bracelet, jewelry dish, robe, ornament, silk pillowcase. For the Dads - personalized handkerchief, cuff links, tie patch, tie clip, watch, wallet, golf balls, fishing lure.​ 2. FRAMED FIRST DANCE LYRICS A sweet way to commemorate your first dance together. Etsy has a variety of options to choose from; whether it's just the lyrics and wedding date, or the lyrics written in a silhouette of you and your partner, it's a memorable gift that, upon admiring, will transport you back to that moment. 3. FAMILY TREE Now that you and your partner will be a part of each other's families, giving a family tree is not only a token of appreciation but a tangible gift that expresses the history and future of the growing family. 4. FAMILY PHOTO CALENDAR Weddings bring families together, and now you'll have an assortment of pictures to create your very own photo calendar - perfect for the entire year. ​ 5. FRAMED PICTURES FROM THEIR WEDDING There's something about watching your kids plan their wedding that brings all the memories of your own wedding day come flooding back. Dig through those memory boxes and gather up a few of your favorite pictures from their wedding, and before they walk you down the aisle, help them take a walk down memory lane. 6. CUSTOMIZED KITCHEN ITEMS Whether it's wooden spoons, a cutting board, a wine board with wine glasses, or a whiskey decanter with rocks glasses, there's always a wide range of options to choose from, perfect for any parent. 7. WINE SUBSCRIPTION It's a gift that keeps on giving and one that you won't have to keep up with because the wine subscription service does it for you. Perfect for parents who like to enjoy wine and perfect for those who like to host. 8. PICNIC BACKPACK Let's face it, your parents probably need a date, so let's take the planning out of it and make it easy on them (okay, easy on dad) by giving them a picnic backpack. It's perfect for an afternoon away to the park or an evening listening to live music. Fill it with a bottle of bubbles and some local meats and cheeses. 9. SMART DISPLAY FOR HOME If your parents are anything like mine, technology is not their friend, and anything "smart" confuses them beyond belief. Having your parents just a click away makes them feel like they are still a huge part of your life, even though you are married now. ​ WHEN SHOULD I PRESENT THE GIFTS TO THE PARENTS? There are a few options when it comes to the timing of giving them your gift - the rehearsal dinner, while getting ready for the wedding, or after the ceremony. The rehearsal dinner can be an ideal opportunity, especially if you are comfortable presenting the gift in front of others. You can choose to make a toast and give the gifts to them. Another option is while getting ready - you can set aside some alone time with your parents, maybe before your makeup is complete (especially if you think you'll shed some tears), or sometime before or after slipping into your dress. If you follow tradition and choose not to see your groom before the ceremony, you'll have to give the gifts separately to the parents. Presenting them your gifts either at the rehearsal dinner or before the ceremony is perfect, especially if you selected a gift you want the parents to wear or have for the wedding. Otherwise, you can choose to give the gifts after the ceremony, or even after the wedding day. You can choose to present them at brunch the following day, or perhaps when you return from your honeymoon (especially if you need some time to collect those amazing photographs). HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND? The value of the gift should be meaningful - don't focus too much on the dollar amount. Parents will appreciate and treasure the gift, no matter the cost. However, if you are concerned with the price, and have this as an option, think of a joint gift you can give your parents as a couple instead of as individuals. Also, keep in mind that the gift should not reflect your feelings on how much or how little a parent contributed during the wedding planning process. ​ Photography: ​Moodyography | Bear Moose & Fox | Britni Dean Photography

ASHLEY: TELL US THE GIST OF YOUR PROPOSAL! Jeanna: "My husband Jason was active duty military during for our entire relationship. He was an Army Ranger stationed in Columbus, Georgia and we did long distance since I met him on leave in 2016. Jason would come visit me in Austin or I would meet him in Atlanta, but the weekend before Thanksgiving 2018 we decided to visit my mom in California to celebrate the holiday early. In my typical family fashion we spent it at a winery in Temecula and while taking photos at the highly sought after golden hour, Jason got down on one knee and proposed. He had flown to Texas the weekend before to ask my father’s permission (after the cute factor of this set in, I was so upset he was in Texas and didn’t even see me) and hadn’t even told my mom about it because he didn't think that she could keep a secret. It was perfect. She was actually videoing for some reason and got the whole thing on camera and once she realized what was going on she dropped the phone and the only thing we got was her freaking out in disbelief between cussing at her shock and crying happy tears! We popped champagne right then and there and now it gives us every excuse to go to the winery every time we visit!" ​HOW INVOLVED DID YOUR FIANCÉ WANT TO BE IN THE PLANNING PROCESS? "Wow, these questions are really hyping you up Ashley! So my fiancé I’m sure (eye roll) would’ve loved to be involved, but he actually was deployed in Afghanistan the entire time we were engaged SO Ashley was my stand in for literally everything. She tried food with me, everything. I’m not sure why I’m complaining about Jason’s lack of involvement because I got everything I wanted without the argument. If I wasn’t sure on something or wanted to make sure his wants were met I would give him a 24 hour window to respond, since we were on a 12 hour time difference and then finalized the decision. He has great taste OBVIOUSLY *hair flip* so pretty much all of his choices were similar to mine." "I wanted my wedding to be unique because a lot of the weddings I was attending was giving me lists of things not to do. I wanted none of the traditional stuff: no bouquet toss, no garter retrieval, no dollar dance. Yuck, BUT that’s just me. Ashley actually helped me come up with a lot of the unique ideas I had." AFTER GOING TO WEDDINGS POST-ENGAGEMENT, WHAT DID YOU BOTH WANT TO DO TO ENSURE THAT YOUR DAY WAS DIFFERENT, OR EVEN SIMILAR? "I wanted my wedding to be unique because a lot of the weddings I was attending was giving me lists of things not to do. I wanted none of the traditional stuff: no bouquet toss, no garter retrieval, no dollar dance. Yuck, BUT that’s just me. Ashley actually helped me come up with a lot of the unique ideas I had; my favorite hands down was the face painter. If you haven’t seen Ashley as a cat, you’re missing out. I loved that she was involved in my wedding as a planner and a friend because she quickly became family as the planning went on." LET'S TALK VENUE... WHAT MADE YOU HAVE THE “THIS IS IT” FEELING? "Everything! I was definitely not your typical bride and a Texas barn wedding was the opposite of what I was looking for. The charm of The Union on Eighth had me hooked the first time I saw it. I loved the story of it having been a blacksmith shop and an automobile factory in it’s past life. The open rafters with measurements still chalked in the worn wood were so beautiful I knew I could totally skip the decor if I wanted and it could stand on it’s own. I could just picture the clear giant garage doors open as my guests danced the night away and the airstream was the cutest grooms suite to ever exist; and it also doubled as my photo booth. Morghan was so amazing and helped me pick a super unique floor plan to accommodate my odd thinking brain. They also had one of the best deals price wise for the amount of time I wanted and an open weekend so soon (we had a 10 month engagement) that worked with Ashley’s schedule as well. It was fate!" YOU CAN READ THE STORY HOW THE UNION CAME ABOUT HERE! TELL US ABOUT YOUR OUTFIT! DRESS, EARRINGS, SHOES, HAIR, MAKE UP, INSPIRATION, RINGS, ETC. "So to say I am an over planner is an understatement. I knew soon after I met Jason it was just a matter of time before he was going to put a ring on it so I had Pinterest boards, Instagram folders, and the works, all ready to go. I wanted to look back at my photos and remember the day as a small gathering of my friends and family that really focused on welcoming my new husband back to the states, as he just had come back about a month before we got hitched! I wanted everything to feel intimate and very AUSTIN. After all, Austin it is the greatest city and I wanted the unique feel and weirdness of my hometown to be seeping in every detail. We did a hippy moon covered in pompous grass for my ceremony backdrop that my father in law actually made me, which is now in Ashley's rentals! Pizza was served from my favorite pizza place in the world- the one and only, VIA 313, and cookies and ice cream from Tiff’s treats & Amy’s Ice Creams. We had ALL of the Austin staples. I wanted a hang out area for cigar smoking around and the photo booth in an airstream. I covered the ceiling in greenery like you were walking through the green belt and that neon sign was exactly the hint of 6th street that every drunk tourist wants to see in the distance! I found my dress on accident when my mom wasn’t there, BUT I did FaceTime her after. It was the second dress I ever tried on and fell in love. I went to Blue Bridal in South Austin and Katie seemed to already know me and what I wanted as soon as we started talking about my vision. I got my earrings from Mignonne Gavigan and they were something everyone was asking about. They are a bit pricey but when you’re looking for something that will be worn on the most photographed day of your life, I’d say it’s worth it. If you haven’t checked out their jewelry, you should! It was so unique and truly made my outfit. I knew I wanted everything about my wedding to be unique so shoes were no different. I went with a white alligator skin pointed toe ankle boot that were TO DIE FOR! Everyone was complimenting them and they weren’t super high so my feet weren’t killing me all night, which is a win on any night. I found my HMUA on Instagram, Kate Kubala is a hair genius! I knew I wanted old Hollywood finger waves and she nailed it." WHAT WAS YOUR INSTRUCTIONS ON WHAT YOU WANT THE BRIDESMAIDS TO ORDER WEAR, AS WELL AS THE GROOMSMEN? "So here is where you see my OCD side. I knew I wanted my girls to wear the color beige, in different outfits so I scoured the internet and put a PDF file together of about 50 dresses that I liked and sent it to them. If they liked any, great - and if not, they knew my vision of what I was looking for and sent options for my approval. The guys were a little easier. I found the perfect forest green pants on ASOS.com and they ordered from the link I sent. I got their bow ties on Amazon - pack of 10, baby!" WHAT DID YOU GIFT TO YOUR BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN? "For my girls, I got them each jewelry that matched my theme and their outfits. I also did their getting ready outfit which was the fake bikini oversized shirts, SO CUTE! The guys got bottles of liquor that they liked which, let’s be honest, is the best and easiest thing for guys because they honestly don’t care. Jason also got them mini bottles of liquor to wear in the pockets down the aisles which was such a cute picture and we also toasted right after walking out! It was a great photo op and memory with my brand new hubby and the guys who mean the most to him." DID YOU DO A FIRST LOOK? WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT IT? WOULD YOU RECOMMEND IT? "We did! And I’m SO glad we did. I knew I wanted to have the moment Jason saw me for the first time to be private. I always love seeing the groom's look as the bride walks down the aisle, but I wanted it just for me because I’m selfish like that. We wrote our own vows and read them to each other during this time and actually recorded us on Ashley’s phone in his jacket pocket. AGAIN, that is her going above and beyond for her brides! It’s such a sweet reminder to listen to us say those words we swore to one another on that day and feel the emotion in our voice and the laughs in between the tears, that you wouldn’t get on paper or photos. It also saved a ton of time on photos being able to get the wedding party shots before hand and that way we could focus more on Jason and I and getting photos of us after the ceremony. We got to hang out beforehand and love on each other with just our closest friends and it was such a special memory before the craziness began with having to chat with all the guests. Moments between the two of you alone are few and far between on the actual day, so take advantage!! I always recommend a first look. I did one with my dad and it was so special to have the moment with him as well." ALSO, CHECK OUT OUR FORMER BLOG POST ABOUT THE PROS & CONS OF A FIRST LOOK! LET'S TALK PLANNING... WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST WAS THE BEST INVESTMENT AS FAR AS VENDORS? "I know I’m doing this interview for you Ashley but on the realest of reals, you were hands down the best thing I invested in for my wedding. I hope everybody reading this has already realized they’d be a dummy not to hire this angel of a planner but if not, DO IT NOW. Otherwise, it would be my photographers! HANDS DOWN. I knew I wanted A Sea Of Love before I even got engaged. Their style is artistic, fresh, and unlike the typical wedding photos you see and that's exactly what I wanted. Do yourself a favor, and check them out - you will not regret it! But if I had to choose a second, it would probably be the face painter. It was such a hit (and also Ashley’s idea; again, she’s amazing and creative and a God send for everything my crazy brain wanted." WHAT GAVE YOU THE MOST “STICKER SHOCK” WHEN IT CAME TO SEEING THE PRICE PEOPLE PAY FOR THINGS AT WEDDINGS? "FLORALS. The damn thing that dies the quickest is also the most expensive. Luckily, Ashley knew that ACC’s floral college trains their students with actual weddings and they gave us the best deal. I liked knowing that the people who were perfecting my day were students who were on their way to graduating, and starting their career. It didn’t hurt that the second I met Rafael, he had such great ideas that made my vision come to life and I knew I had made the right choice. I mean, did you see that moon?? And the ceiling?!" AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE'S, FÊTE, IS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CUSTOM WEDDING FLORALS! WHAT WAS THE BEST WEDDING GIFT SOMEONE GOT YOU GUYS? "We did a cash only registry, which if you’re not doing one, you’re crazy! Who doesn’t want money to spend on things you actually need and want? We went over budget (which is totally normal) and it was nice to be able to pay for groceries or go on a Wednesday date night with the wedding fund we got. Also, it pretty much covered the entire cost of our honeymoon - very clutch decision. If you need all the kitchen appliances and home goods, then a registry is the way to go, but we didn’t need too much of that and with the cash, we could buy the things we did at our own time and leisure." WERE THERE THINGS THAT YOU WORRIED ABOUT DURING PLANNING THAT ENDED UP BEING FINE? WERE THERE THINGS YOU WISH YOU WORRIED MORE ABOUT? DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS? "Of course! If you’re not a little bridezilla at times and worry when you shouldn't, then you’re probably on a high dose of Xanax. Again, I cannot stress enough to have a good wedding planner so that she takes care of things for you. That’s exactly what I told Ashley; if something happens, deal with it and tell me later! Which of course, it did happen and she handled it without a hitch and no one knew. Including me. Way to go Ashley! I can honestly say it was the hands down best day of my life and it was 100% due to Ashley and her help and control." ​ WHAT DID YOU DO WITH YOUR WEDDING DRESS & BOUQUET AFTER THE WEDDING? "So my seamstress that did my alterations is AMAZING! She made my boobs look like a dream without a bra; truly a feat! But she had the great idea to shorten my dress to midi length and wear it on our year anniversary and anniversaries to come! Granted, not every dress can have this done, but mine worked perfectly and as much as I paid for it, it’s so nice to be able to wear it more than once. I ended up drying and keeping my bouquet. I should have done something more keep sake-ish, but I’m lazy and there was too much going on afterwards and that was okay with me!" ​BEST ADVICE TO GIVE TO A BRIDE WHO IS IN PROCESS OF PLANNING HER WEDDING? "I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again - get yourself a wedding planner; they know who to hire and who not to. They know the tips and tricks that you’d never think of. She handled my tips at the end of the night and called my Uber to leave (that's another fun story) and even packed my bag for me. She bustled my dress, fed me pizza and got me a drink as soon as I got off that aisle, which she is an angel for. She sheep herded my guests and family and made sure things were on schedule. She was an extra me that handled all the shit so I could have fun on the best night of my life. Also, get a great photographer. Don’t go cheap here, this is what you will look back on forever and as Ashley says, these pictures will be shown at your funeral so make sure you look fabulous. You want someone who makes you feel comfortable and beautiful and captures the things that are important to you. I wanted photos of my friends and family and I loved that they felt so included in the night and had great photos of themselves." SO THERE YOU HAVE IT! JEANNA MCKINNERNEY WAS THE BEST BRIDE TO INTERVIEW AND IT WAS SUCH A FUN MOMENT TO TAKE A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE. NOW DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MY FAVORITE MEMORY, FROM THE WEDDING PLANNER'S PERSPECTIVE?! So I promised Jeanna as the night went on that I would call her an Uber LUX. A few hours before the send off, I realized that Georgetown was WAY too small to even have the option available. I kept trying and trying to get one reserved and at a last minute save, I just had to order them a regular Uber. Again, they had no idea so after I packed the car and they walked through their sparkler exit I gave them a hug goodbye and we all laughed as they got in their non-bougie Corolla. Fast forward to less than six months post wedding, I blew this picture up on a giant canvas and dropped it off at her house. It now hangs in their living room, with one of the best stories!

A bride needs something old, something new, something borrowed, and most importantly….YOU! There’s no doubt that you need a bride tribe by your side on your wedding day, but before the girls say “I Do” to your bridesmaid proposal, we’ve put together a list of duties & responsibilities the ladies should be aware of. Your girls will be filled with excitement and joy, but it can also be overwhelming, both work load wise and financially, and we want everyone to be well informed of the responsibilities at hand in order to show up and be the best I Do Crew! It’s a commitment that occurs before, during and after the wedding day but if everyone can follow these guidelines, everyone can slay together and stay together! PRE-WEDDING RESPONSIBILITIES HELP PLAN FOR THE BRIDAL SHOWER (AND BE PREPARED TO PAY) It’s common for the bridal shower to be a shared responsibility between the maid of honor, parents & family and often the bridesmaids, so offer a helping hand with the planning portion, but at the very least, plan on attending the shower and bring a gift for the bride to be. SHOP FOR BRIDESMAID ATTIRE (AND BE PREPARED TO PAY) You may be asked to go as a group or just individually shop for your bridesmaid dress, but it is super important to be supportive and give sensible feedback only if requested. You should show up on time, and be present with your information, measurements and decisions, and most importantly, be prepared to pay for your own dress, jewelry & shoes. Remember, what you wear as a bridesmaid isn’t always your decision, but be a great friend, give a smile and be there to compliment the bride and her overall vision. HELP PLAN FOR THE BACHELORETTE PARTY (AND BE PREPARED TO PAY) The maid of honor is typically the main party planner for the bachelorette party, but there ain’t no party like a bridal party, so again, offer to lend a hand wherever possible. This might include some research, assistance in organizing travel plans, the guest list & itinerary and decor. It’s also important to split up the costs between all of the bridesmaids so the bride’s expenses are covered for her bachelorette party. BOOK TRAVEL & HOTEL RESERVATIONS Plan ahead and start reserving your travel & hotel accommodations early on for the big wedding weekend. If transportation is needed at all during the weekend and it isn’t provided, come together with the other bridesmaids and figure out a plan beforehand on how to get from place to place. ATTEND ANY OTHER PRE-WEDDING EVENTS Be present at any other pre-wedding events, such as engagement parties, couples showers, DIY get-togethers, bridal dress shopping/alternation appointments, etc. ATTEND THE REHEARSAL & REHEARSAL DINNER If a rehearsal is conducted prior to the wedding, it’s imperative that the bridesmaids are there so they know what to expect, where to stand, and have a general overall idea of the wedding day. It’s also important to be present at the rehearsal dinner and honor the family that’s hosting this occasion. A lot of brides are now asking for toasts/speeches to take place at the rehearsal dinners rather than at the wedding, so it could be the perfect opportunity to pre-congratulate the newly married couple. ASSIST WITH WEDDING PLANNING TASKS Bridesmaids are talented and individual talents might be asked during the wedding planning process. You may find yourself stuffing envelopes, making DIY decorations, alphabetizing escort cards, learning how to bustle a dress, whatever the task that’s asked of you, be a team player and help your girl out. BE HER SUPPORT She’s got the engagement rock, but she also needs her rocks aka, her besties, her family, her friends. Wedding planning can come with incredible joy & pure happiness, but it can also come with stress and an overwhelming to-do list. Check on her during the process, ask what she needs, ask what you can do to help, and be there for her. If you are the type that she can bounce ideas off of, that’s a pretty cool position to be in, but also stick to your opinion and don’t be pushy or judgy on her overall decisions. Also, be there to support the maid of honor, because not all MOH are natural planners and may need and want some assistance. BUY A WEDDING PRESENT Check out the couple’s wedding registry and send a gift directly to their address (rather than having to bring a gift to the wedding venue day of). Or if all of the bridesmaids want to go in on a big-ticket group gift, it’s a perfect opportunity to give the couple something they really want but might not be able to purchase for themselves. If you are creative and can customize something for them, that’s always a great way to personalize a present. SAVE THE DRAMA FOR YO MOMMA! A group of bridesmaids come from all different parts and times in a bride’s life - some may be family members, some may be lifetime friends, some may be sorority sisters or work friends, but you all have one thing in common, the bride. It’s natural for conversations & experiences to be misconstrued and personalities to clash, but play nice, be kind and don’t leave it up to the bride to be the middleman. WEDDING DAY RESPONSIBILITIES GET READY WITH THE BRIDE It’s wedding day, yay! Wherever & whenever the girls are gathering to get ready for the big day, come on time and come with all of your gear (dress, shoes, jewelry, makeup, undergarments, etc). You may also consider coming prepared with an emergency kit for the day (super glute, bobby pins, hairspray, tide pen, safety pins, eyelash glue, etc). While getting ready, check on your girl - make sure she’s eating and staying hydrated, answer any logistical questions/calls on her behalf, pour her a drink and keep her calm, smiling & laughing. She will also most likely need assistance getting into her dress, attaching her veil and accessorizing herself so be ready for when she needs you. FEED HER! It’s crucial on wedding day to have plenty of drinks and snacks available (and bubbly of course!) so if arrangements for food & beverages haven’t been previously arranged, consider contributing with some quick & easy (and possibly mess free) apps & sips. BE PHOTO-READY After everyone is glammed up and ready for their close up shot, make sure the bride has everything she needs for her photos and for the ceremony which can include rings, bouquet, vows, veil, water, touch-up lipstick, cell phone, tissues, etc. And of course, make sure you are ready with your bouquet and your smile. BE THE BRIDE TRIBE Being a bridesmaid is almost like the concept of a support crew - not only should you be focused on the bride and her needs, but you should be able to serve as a point of contact for guests. Ya, maybe you don’t know all of the details, but you can still be helpful by making sure guests know where events are taking place, showing guests where the gift & guest book table are, and double-checking that members of the wedding party are set and ready with the appropriate bouquets, corsages, flower crown, boutonneiere, etc. LEAD BY EXAMPLE You should also mingle and be friendly with the other guests (besides just the other bridesmaids and the couple). Participate in guest related activities, sit down for dinner when asked, witness (and even photograph) special dances, cake cutting, bouquet toss, grand exit, and be out on the dance floor even if no one else is! Oftentimes the guests don’t know what to do, but if they can follow the lead of someone who’s a part of the wedding party, it can make the day go by flawlessly. Set the mood & keep the energy up, and most importantly, drink responsibly! BE A BATHROOM BUDDY & KNOW HOW TO BUSTLE Bridal gowns are all stunning in their own way, but sometimes, they come with some challenges, especially in the bathroom category. If the bride's dress is extremely form filling, or the complete opposite and is full and fluffy,, they may need some assistance in the little girls room. You may also be asked to know how to (or at least assist) in bustling her dress so pay close attention to those small details. Or if the bride is changing outfits completely, we find it more comfortable for the bride to have a familiar face assisting in that process. BRIDESMAID FOR A DAY, BUT A FRIEND FOR LIFE Before the night ends, there’s still a few things you can do to assist in a perfect wedding night. You can start by making sure all of your personal belongings are together and out of the bridal suite and that you’ve cleaned up as much as you can. You can also assist in gathering up items that the bride will need to take home, such as getting-ready clothes, decor & signage, gifts & cards, any personal items, her bouquet, the top tier of the cake, leftover alcohol, some left over food or late night snacks, etc.You can also assist in making sure all guests find a ride home, whether they are getting on shuttle buses or are calling Ubers. You also may be responsible for making sure the couple has their overnight bags in their hotel room before heading to the after party! POST-WEDDING RESPONSIBILITIES HELP WITH RETURNS Congratulations, you did it! But before you hang up your bridesmaid hat, offer to help with any returns, such as leftover items back to the hotel or to their house. Or if there are any rental items that need to be returned, you can offer assistance in that. Most couples will head out on a honeymoon after their big day, so by putting some of those after-wedding to-dos on someone else’s plates, helps them tremendously. SHARE PHOTOS We know you took some selfies with your girl and snaps of the wedding day and nothing is more fun that reliving those special moments. Get with the other bridesmaids and create a shared file of pictures and videos and send them to the couple. It takes some time to get the professional pictures and videos back, so any sneak peak of behind the scenes memories, will just re-spark their happily ever after. Photography: @daniiiiquiroz | @theteaguesphoto | @madisonkatlinphotography | @honeygemcreative