Atlanta Style Weddings 2026

Where Beautiful Beginnings Unfold

More precious than the perfect venue, elegant dress or gourmet menu are the moments spent celebrating with those you love most. At Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, emerald waters and sugar-white sands set the stage for exceptional wedding experiences.

Whether you envision an intimate sunset ceremony on our private beach or a grand reception in our elegant ballroom, our dedicated wedding team ensures every detail is taken care of, allowing you to focus on the joy of celebration. Indulge in a rehearsal dinner at AAA Four-Diamond Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, unwind with a couples massage at Serenity by the sea Spa, or raise a glass to tomorrow with loved ones and a stunning Gulf view.

Just a five-hour drive or a short direct flight from Atlanta, our resort pairs accessible luxury with genuine Southern hospitality to craft a wedding that reflects your unique love story. Let us bring your dreams to life on the stunning Gulf Coast in Miramar Beach, Florida.

EVERY LITTLE DETAIL

Distinctive venues. Diverse accommodations. South Walton lets you select the exact spaces to match your fairytale vision. You’ll have refined amenities at your fingertips, plus services such as planners, caterers, florists, and musicians to help make your big day run smoothly.

YOUR HONORED GUESTS

From championship golf to award-winning chefs, these 16 beach neighborhoods will create an indelible experience for everyone attending your wedding. There are endless opportunities for exploration in the pristine natural beauty. And it all leads back to the famous sugar-white sand.

No matter your wedding style, the size of your guest list or the special touches you’re dreaming of, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa provides the perfect venue for your wedding celebration.

HiltonSandestinBeach.com •

FOREVER HERE

EDITOR From the

Step back with me to the fall of 2019. I was living in Fargo, North Dakota, newly engaged and ready to plan my wedding. I was working at a local magazine, which gave me a strong starting point — I had connections, a vision and a graphic design minor that I put to use creating my own invitation suite. We’d celebrate at The Rourke Art Gallery & Museum, surrounded by colorful vintage furniture, orchid-filled florals and the people we loved most. I even made a special trip to Minneapolis with my mom to find my dream gown. Everything was falling into place.

If you’ve been doing the math, you may see where this is going. Our wedding date was set for June 6, 2020.

As early 2020 arrived, the world shifted. COVID-19 cast a long shadow over everything, including our plans. I was juggling final wedding payments while watching the world shut down, and fielding texts asking “are you still having your wedding?” In March, my nowhusband and I made the hard decision to postpone.

But I wasn’t ready to give up, it was time to make limoncello out of lemons. With a honeymoon to Rome already booked for fall 2020, we shifted gears and planned a destination wedding in Italy instead — complete with a converted convent venue, the most delicious catering menu imaginable and a dream team of Italian planners. We even signed our legal marriage certificate during a quick trip to my hometown, keeping the ceremony a secret so our celebration abroad would still feel special.

And then: another postponement. Then a full cancellation. COVID felt neverending and it seemed our “dream wedding” just wasn’t in the cards.

Fast-forward to today. Since signing that marriage certificate at a restaurant in Alabama, my husband and I moved to Chicago, bought a condo and I landed what truly is my dream job — editor of Chicago Style Weddings and Atlanta Style Weddings magazines. And this year, it finally felt right to try again. Almost five years to the day, my husband and I had an anniversary celebration in lieu of a traditional wedding.

You’d think, given my role, I’d have everything figured out. But planning this party showed me just how much I didn’t know. I’ve even felt a little self-conscious admitting that I’d never actually had a wedding before. How could I expect our readers to trust me?

If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that flexibility and trusted vendors are some of your best tools when wedding planning, especially in a world where the unexpected is almost guaranteed. Luckily, I’ve been surrounded by the very best vendors, each one generous with their guidance, creativity and support. That’s why, when we put together this magazine, we don’t rely on generic advice. Atlanta Style Weddings turns to our local professionals — the makeup artists, photographers and planners who live and breathe Georgia weddings. These pages are filled with their insights and inspiration, because they are the ones who know what it truly takes to bring your dream day to life.

So here it is: my story of planning two weddings, three dates, a secret ceremony and ultimately, a celebration that was worth the wait. Whether you’re newly engaged or reimagining long-postponed plans, this issue is packed with inspiration and expert advice to meet you where you are. I hope these pages leave you feeling a little more confident and a lot more excited to celebrate your way.

alexandra dillard xo

Alexandra Dillard Editorial Director

COVERS 2026 Edition

March/April

GOWN Bel Fiore Bridal; Justin Alexander Signature “Alani”

JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds

HAIR SC Hair

MAKEUP Beauty by Beé

LOCATION Collier Hall

PHOTOGRAPHY Boone Studios

May/June

GOWN J. Andrew’s Bridal; Wisdom & Willow “Showgirl”

JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds

HAIR SC Hair

MAKEUP Beauty by Beé

LOCATION Collier Hall

PHOTOGRAPHY Boone Studios

July/August

GOWN Wynona Fox “Maria”

JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds

HAIR SC Hair

MAKEUP Beauty by Beé

LOCATION Collier Hall

PHOTOGRAPHY Boone Studios

2026 EDITION

NEI-TURNER MEDIA GROUP, INC.

GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO Barbara Krause

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Alexandra Dillard

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Banu Gatto

DIRECTOR OF SALES & ACCOUNT SERVICES Barb Montagano

DIRECTOR OF SALES & ACCOUNT SERVICES Laura Wrasman

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Jerriann Mullen

ART DIRECTOR Lauren Harrigan

DIGITAL EDITOR Kristen Rouse

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Cici Rindy

COMMUNITY MANAGER Jerriann Mullen

SALES & MARKETING SUPPORT, OFFICE MANAGER Nadine Seitz

NEWSSTAND SALES CONSULTANT JK Associates

CONTRIBUTORS Danielle Brown | Audrey McCloud | Brittneé Patterson Gloria Schulz | Kimberly Smiley | Shannon Turner | Jennifer Yoder

ADVERTISING INFORMATION 262.729.4471 | sales@atlantastyleweddings.com

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS 262.729.4471 | submissions@atlantastyleweddings.com

Atlanta Style Weddings is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President.

FOR THE WEDDING PROFESSIONAL

Atlanta Style Weddings is published annually by Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc., Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Atlanta Style Weddings is a trademark of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. The unauthorized use of this trademark is strictly prohibited. The information in this publication is believed to be accurate. However, Atlanta Style Weddings cannot and does not guarantee accuracy. Atlanta Style Weddings cannot and will not be held liable for the quality of performance of goods and services provided by advertisers or any other portion of this publication. Published and Printed in the USA | Please Recycle This Product

Atlanta Style Weddings IN THIS ISSUE 2025-2026 EDITION

Ellice & John Boone, Boone Studios

EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ellice and John Boone are the husbandand-wife founders of Boone Studios, specializing in soulful, cinematic wedding and travel photography rooted in emotion, artistry and human connection.

“Something Sacred” - pg 32

Dr. Kimberly Smiley, Atlanta Marriage Prep

FEATURE WRITER

Dr. Kimberly Smiley is a licensed psychologist and founder of Atlanta Marriage Prep, offering insight-driven coaching that helps engaged and newlywed couples build lasting marriages.

“Why Every Engaged Couple Needs Premarital Counseling (Even If You Think You’re Fine)” - pg 108

Contributors

Brittneé Patterson, Beauty by Beé

FEATURE WRITER

Brittneé Patterson, founder of Beauty by Beé, is a licensed cosmetologist with 13 years of experience in creating personalized, natural bridal beauty looks.

“Matcha, Moisture and Mindfulness: A Bridal Beauty Ritual” - pg 48

Shannon Turner, Shannon Turner Cakes

FEATURE WRITER

Shannon Turner is an award-winning Atlanta cake artist and industry resource on fresh-flower safety, known for designing custom wedding cakes that balance beauty, craftsmanship and foodsafe practices.

“Not All Wedding Flowers Are Safe: A Wedding Cake Flower Safety Guide” - pg 128

Gloria Schulz, Gloria Schulz Events

FEATURE WRITER

Gloria Schulz is the founder of Atlanta-based Gloria Schulz Events, bringing seven years of wedding-planning expertise and nearly two decades of customer-service experience to happy couples.

“Your Venue Search, Simplified” - pg 58

Audrey McCloud, Audrey Grace Photo

FEATURE WRITER

Audrey McCloud of Audrey Grace Photo is an Atlanta photographer specializing in timeless wedding imagery and heirloom albums, dedicated to giving couples both beautiful photographs and an exceptional experience.

“Preserving the Memories: How to Enjoy Your Wedding Photos for Decades” - pg 150

PLAN WITH INTENTION. CELEBRATE IN STYLE.

Jennifer Yoder, Vows & Visions

FEATURE WRITER

Jennifer Yoder, founder of Vows & Visions, is a wedding planner known for her hospitality-driven approach and detailfocused designs that help couples craft meaningful, authentic celebrations.

“How to Actually Get the Wedding You Want (on a Realistic Budget)” - pg 104

Dani

Brown,

Danielle Brown Photography

FEATURE WRITER

Danielle “Dani” Brown is a longtime Atlanta wedding photographer whose background in graphic design informs her approach to capturing and preserving celebrations.

“A Wedding Photographer’s Guide To Planning Your Perfect Timeline” - pg 154

Visit our website and discover a treasure trove of ideas to create your perfect Southern wedding.

• Explore our expanded vendor and venue directory to meet your wedding dream team

• Save your favorite ideas with our Pinterest integration

• Dream big and search inspiration by color, style and theme

Planning a wedding comes with countless details, and knowing the right questions to ask vendors is the first step to success. To help, we’ve curated a list of key questions to get you started. Use these questions as a guide to spark the right conversations as you build your dream wedding team.

Throughout this issue, you’ll also find tailored question guides for specific vendors — be sure to explore them all!

Questions to ask your bridal salon pg. 26

Questions to ask your beauty team pg. 44

Questions to ask your venue pg. 52

Questions to ask your planner pg. 94

Questions to ask your florist pg. 116

Questions to ask your cake artist pg. 126

Questions to ask your caterer pg. 132

Questions to ask your stationer pg. 141

Questions to ask your photographer pg. 144

Questions to ask your entertainment pg. 158

to ask Questions EVERY VENDOR

• Are you available for our wedding date?

• How far in advance should we book your services?

• Can you accommodate our budget? Can you provide guidance on what a reasonable budget is for our requests?

• How long have you been in business or in the wedding industry?

• What sets you apart from other vendors, and why should we hire you?

• What are your cancellation and rescheduling policies? Are any fees refundable?

• What happens if you are unable to be present on the day of our wedding?

• Do you carry personal liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance and the necessary licenses?

• What’s the payment plan for the full bill? What forms of payment do you accept?

• What is the timeline for making final decisions during the planning process (e.g., guest count, cake tasting, gown selection)?

• What is your social media policy regarding sharing our wedding on your channels?

New to the Scene | WHAT’S

TaTe Diamonds

The Moon on Ponce

368 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30308

@themoononponce | the-moon-on-ponce.com

The Moon on Ponce is a new celestialinspired event space in the heart of Midtown. Centered around a yellow-brick home built in 1901, the historic property is complete with a secret courtyard and a hidden backyard theater. It’s a place that blends old and new, offering a warm, familiar atmosphere and an escape from the city without ever leaving it. The venue embraces Southern hospitality, vintage charm and good vibes. With its debut on Ponce de Leon Avenue, The Moon on Ponce is poised to become one of Atlanta’s most magical gathering spots.

Photo by The Heims Photo

3343 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste. 1115 | Atlanta, GA 30326

@tatediamonds | tatediamonds.com

TaTe Diamonds is redefining luxury in Atlanta with the world’s only true mineto-finger diamonds. As a fully Namibianowned fine jewelry house, TaTe oversees every step of the diamond journey — from ethical underwater recovery off Namibia’s coasts to cutting, polishing and designing each piece. Their GIA-certified diamonds are available exclusively through their Buckhead showroom and online boutique, offering unmatched traceability. Founded by visionary taShi Shiimi-ya-Shiimi, TaTe merges heritage and innovation to create heirloom-worthy pieces that honor craftsmanship and integrity. For couples seeking rare and ethically sourced jewelry, TaTe Diamonds delivers a story worth telling.

TTON COUTURE

24 E. Andrews Dr. NW | Atlanta, GA 30305 @ttoncouture | ttoncouture.com

TTON COUTURE brings a fresh, bespoke bridal experience to Atlanta with its new Buckhead studio. Founded by Vietnamese designer Thinh Ton, the brand is rooted in artistry, precision and a respect for individual expression. Clients collaborate directly with Ton and his team to create made-to-measure bridal and eveningwear looks that reflect their personal vision. Each gown is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, blending luxurious materials with both traditional and modern techniques. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, TTON COUTURE is dedicated to delivering a seamless, artistic and truly unforgettable custom design experience.

Photo by You&Me Bridal Studio

Ruby Chow’s

620 Glen Iris Dr. NE, Unit C-1 | Atlanta, GA 30318 @rubychowsatl | rubychows.com

Ruby Chow’s is the latest culinary concept from the team behind Atlanta favorites Miso Izakaya, Le Fat and Chow Baby. This new hotspot offers a fresh take on Asian fusion cuisine, blending traditional flavors with inventive techniques and modern flair. Located in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward, Ruby Chow’s delivers a dynamic dining experience with its bold menu, highquality ingredients and creative cocktails. The stylish ambiance makes it an ideal setting for anything from intimate dinners to spirited celebrations. Whether you’re planning a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch, Ruby Chow’s is a must-visit venue for memorable gatherings.

Photo by Justin Seo Photography

The Painted Party Creative Studio

Sandy Springs, GA

@the.paintedparty | the-painted-party.com

The Painted Party Creative Studio brings the magic of live art to your wedding guests through custom watercolor portraits. During cocktail hours and receptions, guests can get their photo taken so it can be used as a reference for a surprise gift: their very own fashion illustration! These portraits capture personality and joy, offering a thoughtful, interactive favor. Led by the artist Raegan Rowland and her assistant Ashley Knopp, this dynamic pair brings charm, connection and a touch of whimsy to your special day.

Photo by Fagan Kennedy Photography

Scent Souk Perfume & Oud Bar

@the.scentsouk | scentsoukusa.com

Step into olfactory luxury with Scent Souk, Atlanta’s first mobile perfume and oud bar experience for wedding guests. The service offers more than 20 exquisite, hand-curated fragrances made with high-quality oils imported from India, Turkey and the UAE. The collection spans delicate florals, fresh citrus, rich gourmands and smoky woods, crafted to captivate every guest. Scent Souk doesn’t simply sell perfume; it helps create lasting memories. The bar accommodates events from intimate gatherings of 30 to large celebrations of up to 900 guests. More than just a favor, this service is a lasting experience your guests will cherish long after your special day.

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead

3300 Peachtree Rd. NE | Atlanta, GA 30305

@grandhyattatlanta | atlanta.grand.hyatt.com

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead has unveiled a new renovation, thoughtfully reimagining every aspect of the guest experience. A longtime icon of luxury hospitality, the hotel maintains its signature balance of serenity and sophistication, all set against the backdrop of its Japanese Zen Garden and threestory waterfall. The updated spaces include newly refreshed accommodations, dining areas and central lobby. For weddings, the property boasts 42,000 square feet of redesigned indoor and outdoor venues, including a grand ballroom that holds up to 1,000 guests and an outdoor terrace with fire pits. With a revitalized arrival experience and state-of-the-art event amenities, the Grand Hyatt Atlanta continues its legacy as a premier destination for elegant weddings and celebrations.

Wynona Fox

Atlanta, GA

@wynonafox | wynonafox.com

Wynona Fox, a high-end couture bridal and evening-wear label, brings a fresh Renaissance of bridal to Atlanta’s style landscape. Rooted in old-world romance and elevated craftsmanship, the brand provides true luxury garments with an emphasis on fit, construction and the use of natural, sustainable fibers. Wynona Fox’s gowns showcase the artistry of modern bridal and evening wear, drawing on historical couture techniques to evoke a refined sense of nostalgia. With styles that are classically timeless yet whimsically nouveau, the collection offers an escape from the predictable for brides seeking individuality over convention. Designed in the heart of Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward and crafted in New York City’s garment district, Wynona Fox celebrates couture artistry with pieces made to be treasured for generations.

5600 Roswell Rd., Building G | Sandy Springs, GA 30342 @sinclairatlanta_ | sinclairatlanta.com

Sinclair invites couples to celebrate their wedding with sophistication and ease at one of Atlanta’s newest venues. Featuring refined interiors and seamless indoor-outdoor spaces, this Sandy Springs venue offers a versatile backdrop for elevated, personalized wedding celebrations. Brought to you by the acclaimed women-owned event design firm, Edge Design Group, Sinclair offers a multi-functional space designed for personalized, elevated celebrations. The residential-inspired venue includes 6,500 square feet of indoor space for up to 400 guests, plus a 2,500-square-foot covered pergola for outdoor gatherings. Sinclair provides full-service beverage, decor and floral services, all tailored to each client’s vision.

Photo by DV Photo Video

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel

866 W. Peachtree St. NW | Atlanta, GA 30308 @renmidtown | renaissanceatlantamidtown.com

The Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel debuts its stunning Centennial Event Space Collection, a sophisticated new venue designed for unforgettable celebrations in the heart of the city.

Featuring the elegant Centennial Ballroom, which comfortably hosts up to 418 guests, and the flexible Centennial Park breakout space, this reimagined setting delivers both intimacy and grandeur. With floor-to-ceiling windows, modern layouts and a stylish atmosphere inspired by Atlanta’s vibrant arts and music culture, the 4,120-square-foot space is perfect for vibrant weddings in the heart of the city. Now open and ready to set the stage for your next extraordinary gathering, the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown offers elegance and versatility in one unforgettable destination.

Where First Impressions Begin

At

12-MONTH

Planning Checklist

They say that getting started is the hardest part. Saying “Yes!” to your partner was easy, but beginning the planning process can feel daunting. With plenty to do before you walk down the aisle, our 12-month planning checklist will help you stay organized and as stress-free as possible. Use this timeline to break down the planning process into bite-sized chunks that will ease overwhelming feelings.

ONE YEAR OUT

___ Establish your budget

___ Begin researching wedding vendors (peruse the pages in your hands or head to atlantastyleweddings.com to get started!)

___ Begin planning the guest list to get a rough idea of headcount

___ Narrow down potential wedding dates

___ Select and book your venue(s) based on available dates

___ Discuss your wedding priorities with your partner and family

___ Decide if you’ll be using a wedding planner (we recommend!) and hire them now

TEN TO TWELVE MONTHS

___ Finalize your guest list

___ Determine your wedding theme, colors and level of formality

___ Begin wedding day attire shopping

___ If you’re having a destination or holiday weekend wedding, mail savethe-dates now

___ Choose your wedding party and invite them to be by your side

___ Meet with and make final decisions on your team of vendors — these book up quickly, so the sooner you decide, the better. Priorities might include: floral and decor provider, caterer, photographer and videographer.

___ Take engagement photos

NINE MONTHS

___ Purchase your dress and accessories, and schedule fittings and delivery date

___ Begin to plan the groom and groom’s attendants’ attire

___ Create your gift registry and wedding website

___ Book hotel room blocks and transportation to and from

___ Reserve any rental equipment, such as tables, chairs and tents (if necessary) Choose your cake designer

Plan entertainment options and book your DJ/musicians

___ Book your hair and makeup vendors

SIX TO EIGHT MONTHS

___ Mail your save-the-dates

___ Finalize rehearsal dinner plans

___ Shop for wedding bands and arrange for engraving

___ Reserve/purchase groom’s attire

___ Select wedding party attire and schedule fittings (if needed)

___ Select your officiant and meet with them to learn about any potential premarital requirements

___ Ensure all vendors are booked and confirmed

THREE TO FIVE MONTHS

Meet with your caterer to plan menu details and tastings

Establish your honeymoon plans and book as needed. Don’t forget to check your passport expiration date!

Plan welcome bags and day-of stationery like signage, programs and menus

Choose the ceremony music, and discuss reception music with your band or DJ

___ Confirm out-of-town guest accommodations

___ Order formal invitations and book calligrapher (if needed)

___ Schedule hair and makeup trials

TWO MONTHS

___ Mail your invitations with RSVPs due one month before the wedding

___ Extend rehearsal dinner invitations

___ Attend wedding attire fitting(s)

___ Begin to write your wedding vows

___ Embark on bachelor/bachelorette parties

___ Confirm details for rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception

___ Research local marriage license and name change requirements

ONE MONTH

___ Pay your vendors in full

Apply for a marriage license

___ Attend the final dress fitting

___ Create your seating chart

Have a final venue walk-through

___ Confirm details with the florist, caterer, entertainers and officiant

___ Have a trial run for full hair and makeup

___ Purchase gifts for attendants, flower girl, ring bearer, fiancé, parents, etc.

___ Plan for floral and dress preservation

___ Decide who’ll carry out readings and toasts

___ Finalize wedding vows

TWO WEEKS

___ Give your caterer and venue a final guest count

___ Finalize seating arrangements

___ Break-in your wedding shoes

___ Get your last pre-wedding haircut

___ Practice your wedding vows

___ Confirm all RSVPs

___ Touch base with all your vendors

Schedule a final meeting with your planner or day-of coordinator

ONE WEEK

___ Give assignments to your wedding party members and remind them of rehearsal details

Confirm timelines with all vendors

___ Assign an attendant to collect gifts and cards

___ Prepare tip envelopes for vendors and arrange for someone to distribute them on the wedding day

Designate various point people — who is taking care of what on the big day?

ONE DAY

___ Get a manicure and pedicure

Eat safe and clean — this is not the time to try new ingredients!

___ Stay hydrated — drink lots of water!

___ Clean your ring

Host rehearsal dinner and distribute any special gifts to the wedding party and family

Ensure dress, shoes, jewelry and accessories are all ready to go

Pack an overnight bag if you are staying at a hotel the night of your wedding

Practice your vows out loud

WEDDING DAY

Relax and enjoy the day— you’ve planned everything up to this point so well!

AFTER

___ Write thank-you notes

Change your last name (if desired)

___ Preserve your dress and florals

Write online reviews of your vendors

License to Wed OBTAINING A GEORGIA MARRIAGE LICENSE

REQUIREMENTS

Both parties must be present at the county clerk at the time of application in order to obtain a marriage license.

In Fulton County, the signed marriage license should be returned to the probate court within 30 days of the ceremony. You will then receive your marriage certificate in the mail within 30 days.

WHO MAY APPLY

Unmarried people who are at least 18 years of age, of sound mind, and have no living spouse from a prior un-dissolved marriage can apply for a marriage license. If at least one applicant is a resident of Georgia, a marriage license can be issued at a probate court in any county. If neither applicant is a Georgia resident, then you must get your license issued from the county where the ceremony is taking place.

Exceptions:

• If you are 17 years of age when applying for a marriage license, you must show that you have been emancipated for no less than 15 days and present a certificate of completion of separate specialized premarital counseling for each applicant, even if one applicant is over 18.

WHAT TO PROVIDE

Both partners must be present at the time of application and will need to bring proof of age, proof of divorce (if applicable) and a method of payment. Accepted documents include: birth certificate, driver’s license, state ID, military ID, resident alien ID or passport.

COST

A marriage license fee differs depending on the county and ranges from $16-$76. Each county offers a discount for completing a premarital education course. Check with your local probate court for restrictions on payment.

For Fulton County, marriage licenses are $56 (cash/credit/debit) or $16 if you provide to the court a Certificate of Completion for a Qualified Premarital Education Program. This premarital education must be completed within 12 months prior to the application of the marriage license and the couple must undergo the education together.

WAITING PERIOD/ EXPIRATION OF LICENSE

Georgia doesn’t have a waiting period before the license can be used. In some counties the license doesn’t expire, but in others, the license expires after six months. Also, verify how many days you have to return the license for filing.

Looking to get married somewhere other than Georgia? Visit atlantastyleweddings.com/planning-tools to learn about marriage license laws in other areas of the Southeast.

Where to Go

Marriage licenses are issued by county probate courts, so where you receive your marriage license can depend on residency and ceremony location. Since procedures for applications vary by county, call your county clerk’s office to verify requirements, hours and additional locations. Some counties require an appointment, so be sure to schedule as needed.

FULTON COUNTY

Fulton County Probate Court 136 Pryor St. SW, Suite C-230 Atlanta, GA 30303 404-613-4583

DEKALB COUNTY

DeKalb County Courthouse 556 N. McDonough St., B190 Decatur, GA 30030 404-371-2601

COBB COUNTY

Cobb County Probate Court 32 Waddell St. SE Marietta, GA 30090 770-528-1931

FAYETTE COUNTY

Fayette County Probate Court 1 Center Dr. Fayetteville, GA 30214 770-716-4220

GWINNETT COUNTY

Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center 75 Langley Dr. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-822-8250

ATHENS COUNTY

Athens-Clarke County Probate Court 325 E. Washington St., Suite 200 Athens, GA 30601

706-613-3320

CHATHAM COUNTY

Chatham County Probate Court 133 Montgomery St., Room 509 Savannah, GA 31401 912-652-7277

FASHION, STYLE & BEAUTY

Finding your wedding-day look should feel exciting, personal and full of possibility. From aisle style to beauty insights, this section is curated to help you feel confident, polished and entirely yourself on the day you say “I do.”

28

DRESS SHOPPING TIPS

Making the most of your gown shopping experience

32

SOMETHING SACRED

A bridal fashion editorial at Collier Hall

30

TREND REPORT

Atlanta Style Weddings’ favorite wedding attire trends

46

THE ART OF THE WEDDING MORNING

Set the tone and vibe for your big day

48

MATCHA, MOISTURE AND MINDFULNESS

A bridal beauty ritual

to ask your Questions

BRIDAL SALON

• Are appointments required to visit and try on wedding attire?

• Approximately how long are the appointments, and how far in advance should I book?

• How many guests can attend the appointment with me?

• Should I bring with me any special undergarments, shoes or accessories?

• Do you have any collections or brands that are exclusive to your store in the region?

• Can I request a sample gown from a brand you carry that isn’t currently in store?

• What is your sample size range?

• Do you sell any sample gowns off the rack?

• Do you have any special trunk shows or events coming up?

• What deposit do you require to place an order?

• How long does it take for my dress to arrive once I place the order?

• How many fittings do you recommend?

• What is the anticipated cost and process for alterations?

DRESS SHOPPING

Tips

Finding “the dress” is often at the top of every nearlywed’s to-do list, but it can also feel like one of the most daunting tasks to tackle. With a little preparation and the right mindset, dress shopping can actually become one of the most enjoyable, memorymaking experiences all on its own. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your dress shopping day!

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Wedding gown shopping isn’t the time for a drop-in. Most reputable bridal salons require appointments, and this is for your benefit! By booking ahead and completing any preappointment questionnaires, your stylist will have time to get familiar with your wedding details and pull gowns tailored to your style and vision.

SET YOUR BUDGET

Establish a budget — even if your budget is “no budget.” Remember to account for accessories, alterations and specialty undergarments. Sticking to a budget narrows your options and helps you choose salons that align with your price range.

INVITE THE RIGHT CREW

While it’s tempting to bring a large entourage, too many opinions can overwhelm you and affect the mood of the appointment. Think carefully about whose input matters most and keep your group small and VIP-only.

DOCUMENT THE DAY

Snap photos and jot down notes during your appointments to keep track of what you’ve tried on. Your facial expressions in those photos can reveal so much about how you truly feel in each gown! These notes will also make it easier to narrow down your favorites later.

PLAN FOR ALTERATIONS

BRING PROPER UNDERGARMENTS

Whether or not shapewear is part of your plan for the big day, bring what makes you feel your most confident to the appointment. Many crepe or fitted gowns look their best with seamless undergarments, and nude or skin-tone options are a must to avoid distracting patterns showing through delicate fabrics. We all have good imaginations, but it’s all about minimizing the guesswork and focusing on how the dress truly looks and feels — without pretending you can’t see the bright undies showing through!

Almost every wedding dress will need alterations. Start the process about three to four months before your wedding date to ensure everything is tailored to perfection.

PERMISSION TO SAY “YES”

Go into your appointment with an open mind. Your gown should feel authentically you. A dress can check every box on your must-have list, but if you don’t love it, then it’s not the dress. Another gown could be completely different from anything you thought you wanted, but if it feels right, then you’ve found your “the one.”

RELAX AND ENJOY!

Your wedding gown will be a reflection of who you are. When you find her, you’ll know. Enjoy the process and happy shopping! ■

TrendReport

Wedding fashion is where tradition meets reinvention, and 2026 is already bringing some serious aisle style. Like a breath of fresh air, this season’s trends are spotlighting bold details, modern twists and a fresh dose of personality. Ready for what’s next? Here’s your preview of the year’s most buzzworthy wedding looks.

PRESENTING THE WISDOM + WILLOWCollection

More than just a dress. To you, it’s the one. To others, it’s hope.

When you become a J. Andrew’s bride, you help us support local charities that rescue dogs and uplift children in need.

IN 3-D

Floral, but make it dimensional. 3D sculptural petals and textured blossoms are elevating gowns with a whimsical, artistic edge. Whether blooming from the hemline or climbing the bodice, these appliqués create a fairytale effect and add just the right amount of romantic drama.

by: Emily Nicole Photography

DISCOVER THE Collection. jandrewsbridalandformal jandrewsbridal jandrewsbridalptc

phone: (770) 487‑5680 | text: (833) 915 2368

hello@jandrewsbridal.com | jandrewsbridal.com

Trend Report

Capes, jackets and chic little toppers — oh my! These stylish add-ons redefine the bridal silhouette, offering style-savvy marriers alternative ways to switch up their look from aisle to after-party. Whether a sweeping cape or cropped bolero, toppers bring versatility and fashion-girl energy.

GRACE KELLY GLOW

Timeless elegance never fades, and this season’s nod to Grace Kelly proves it. Think decadent lace, dramatic ball skirts and high necklines, all reimagined for the modern marrier. For those channeling vintage royalty with a fresh twist, this trend delivers a look that will never go out of style.

Pleats, please! Whether crisp and architectural or soft and flowing, pleats add depth and movement to a wedding gown. Ideal for the fashionforward marrier who wants a look that’s traditional with a twist, pleats are the ultimate polished upgrade.

Sacred

LOCATION

Collier Hall

HAIR SC Hair

JEWELRY

TaTe Diamonds

SOMETHING

PHOTOGRAPHY

Boone Studios

MAKEUP

Beauty by Beé

FLORAL

Flowers of Marietta

To see more photos from this fashion shoot, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/fashion-feature.

See additional credits on page 43.

GOWN PROVIDERS

a&bé x anna bé

Bel Fiore Bridal

En Blanc Bridal

J. Andrew’s Bridal

TTON Couture

Wynona Fox

(OPPOSITE

(OPPOSITE

(ABOVE) GOWN Bel Fiore Bridal; Stella York “Rosalie” | BEE BROACHES Wynona Fox

JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds

(OPPOSITE) GOWN TTON Couture “S2524” | JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds

LOCATION Collier Hall | PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Boone Studios

STYLING Alexandra Dillard | HAIR SC Hair | MAKEUP Beauty by Beé

JEWELRY TaTe Diamonds | SHOES Bella Belle Shoes, Kailee P, Valentina Rangoni | FLORAL Flowers of Marietta | GOWN PROVIDERS a&bé x anna bé, Bel Fiore Bridal, En Blanc Bridal, J. Andrew’s Bridal, TTON Couture, Wynona Fox MODELS Maya Martin (Ursula Wiedmann Models); Lauren Smith (Forward the Agency) | CONTENT CREATOR Dream Day Social

To see more photos from this fashion shoot, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/fashion-feature.

to ask your Questions BEAUTY TEAM

• Do you offer both hair and makeup services? If not, can you recommend a professional to complete my beauty team?

• Is there a specific style or aesthetic you specialize in (e.g. natural, glam, soft and dewy)?

• What range of skin tones and hair textures do you have experience working with?

• Do you offer consultations and trials? If so, what is the cost?

• When should I schedule my trial appointment?

• Based on your experience, what look would you suggest for me?

• Will you be able to accommodate my entire bridal party?

• Do you offer on-site services, and if so, how far are you willing to travel?

• What products and brands do you use?

• Are there additional fees for special services like hair extensions, false lashes or airbrush makeup?

• How much time should I set aside for hair and makeup on my wedding day?

• Are you available for touch-ups during the day? If not, will you provide tips or tools to help me manage touch-ups myself?

Wedding Morning of the ArtThe

Before the walk down the aisle, before the clinking of champagne flutes and long before you’re twirling under the reception lights, there’s this soft, sacred little window of time: the wedding morning.

It’s your best friends in robes and hair rollers, the smell of fresh coffee in the air and your playlist humming in the background. Your wedding morning establishes a moment suspended between anticipation and celebration, and it deserves to feel as intentional as the wedding itself.

Whether you’re going for serene and sentimental or fun and high-energy, here’s how to make the most of your wedding morning.

SET THE SCENE

Your wedding morning vibe starts with where you set up. For the best experience, choose a space that’s clean, calm and filled with natural light. Trust us, your makeup artist and photographer will thank you! Bonus points for mirrors, cozy seating and room to spread out.

Some popular getting-ready locations include:

At Home

If you’re after comfort and familiarity, getting ready at home (or at a parent’s) can be a sentimental and grounding choice. You’ll have your favorite mug, your beloved pets and all your things right where you left them. Just be mindful of space. A crowd of people plus curling irons and garment bags can fill up the room fast.

That said, getting ready at home risks feeling like just another day. And your wedding day is so much more than that! If you’re getting ready at home, try sprucing up the space ahead of time with candles, flowers and a fresh playlist.

Hotel Room

Craving a little luxury? A hotel suite is the perfect choice. You’ll enjoy cleanliness, room service at your fingertips and built-in hospitality perks. A clutter-free space where everyone can spread out and get ready together? Priceless.

Pro tip: Book a suite or adjoining rooms. Use one for bags and clutter, and keep the other photo-ready for hair, makeup and getting dressed.

Rental Home

A rental home (like an Airbnb or Vrbo) offers more personality than a hotel but more polish than home. You get space, style

and privacy — just keep in mind that you’ll be managing your own breakfast and logistics (no front desk to call!).

Venue’s Suite

Some venues include a dedicated getting-ready suite, which can be a convenient and on-theme option. You’re already on-site, and venue staff can assist with any last-minute needs. Just double-check availability in advance, as not every venue has a designated space for getting ready.

PLAN YOUR GLAM SCHEDULE

A smooth glam session starts with a solid plan. Work with your planner and hair and makeup team to map out who’s getting what done when. And always build in a buffer for touch-ups, snacks and surprise delays.

Pro tip: Don’t go last. Aim for somewhere in the middle so you’re fresh, but still have time to relax, breathe and take it all in before slipping into your outfit.

FUEL UP

We all know what hangry feels like. Do you want to be hangry on your wedding day? Didn’t think so! It’s easy to forget to eat when you’re nervous or excited, but staying fed and hydrated is essential. Think: fresh fruit, mini bagels, flaky pastries and protein-packed bites — all easy to grab between hair and makeup touch-ups. Also: water. You need it! Don’t let fears of smudging your lipstick keep you from staying hydrated. That’s what straws are for!

PICTURE PERFECT DETAILS

Your photographer will likely arrive before you’re fully ready, and that’s on purpose. Before they get there, gather your important details (e.g. invitation suite, shoes, perfume, jewelry, etc.) into one place so they can be styled and photographed.

Let your photographer know what moments and details matter most to you: a monogrammed robe, your mom zipping your dress, a mimosa cheers with your crew. And don’t sleep on a great getting-ready outfit. Matching pajama sets, robes or oversized button-ups make for adorable (and comfy) photos. Just be sure your attire has buttons or can easily slip over your head — you don’t want to mess up your perfected glam!

PROTECT THE VIBE

Every wedding morning has its own rhythm. Maybe yours is calm and reflective, or maybe it’s filled with dance breaks and tequila shots. Whatever energy you’re aiming for — protect it. If that means limiting who’s in the room, ask someone to play gatekeeper. You call the shots! And by all means, feel free to step out if you need a breather. One of the best ways to set and communicate your vibe is music. Curate a playlist that matches your mood, whether that’s acoustic medleys for a zen morning or Beyoncé power

anthems to get the party started. And remember: you don’t have to entertain anyone. You don’t have to be “on.” It’s your day, you just have to be

DELEGATE

You should not be the one figuring out where the florist should park or when the guest shuttle arrives. Beyond the tasks your planner is handling, assign a trusted friend to manage incoming questions and last-minute logistics. That way, you can stay fully in the moment and off your phone.

Create a group text and print out a quick schedule with any key info on it. Think vendor arrival times, who’s getting hair and makeup when, where the guest book is, etc. A little prep goes a long way toward keeping things calm and seamless.

PRACTICE YOUR VOWS

Amid all the excitement, don’t forget what the day is truly about: marrying your person. It’s easy to get swept up in timelines and to-do lists, but one of the most meaningful moments will be when

We bring out your inner radiance so you can confidently say “I do” with grace and beauty.

you look into your partner’s eyes and promise them your best and worst days. If the idea of saying something personal in front of a crowd makes your palms sweat, you’re not alone. Most of us don’t aren’t used to public speaking, let alone baring our hearts. That’s why practicing your vows, even just once, makes a difference. Whether in front of a mirror or with your bestie, take a beat to read them out loud. You’ll feel more confident, grounded and present. That moment at the altar will be all the more powerful when said with conviction.

THAT FINAL, BEAUTIFUL PAUSE

As the hairspray sets in and your veil is pinned in place, take a moment. Look around the room. Hug your people. Soak it all in.

Because once you step into the ceremony, it all begins: the walk, the vows, the joy, the married part. But for now, you’re just a bride on the morning of her wedding, surrounded by love and beauty. And that is a moment worth savoring. ■

MATCHA, MOISTURE AND MINDFULNESS: A

Bridal Beauty Ritual

START WITH CEREMONY

Brew a cup of ceremonial-grade matcha (not that familiar cup of green sugar; I’m talking the real earthy stuff).

As you whisk, set an intention.

Mine today? “May my beauty routine always remind me of my worth.” Or for a busy bride, maybe, “I intend to honor my boundaries and limits.”

DOUBLE CLEANSE YOUR ENERGY (AND FACE)

When you’re two weeks out from your wedding and your to-do list has become unmanageable, the last thing you want is another checklist. What you do need is a moment, a pause. A ritual that feels sacred. But let’s make it skincare, honey!

Here’s how to create a skin and soul beauty ritual that resets your nervous system and jump-starts a healthy glow:

Use an oil or balm cleanser to melt the day away — we’re talking makeup, sunscreen, stress, etc. Then follow with a gentle matcha-infused foaming cleanser. Picture each rinse as a release of expectations. You’ll thank yourself for this later!

MATCHA MASK MOMENT

Apply a matcha green tea face mask — because antioxidants, am I right? Light a candle while the face mask works its magic and burn a bit of palo santo or incense. Breathe; this is the time you’ve carved out for yourself.

HYDRATION & HUMILITY

Layer your serums and moisturizers slowly and with intention. Say something kind to yourself between steps — because you’re not just hydrating, you’re honoring your journey. Don’t forget to take in the fact that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be at this moment.

SEAL IT WITH STILLNESS

Before glam, take five minutes to sit silently, pray or listen to a calming playlist. It’s the vibe shift you didn’t know you needed. Trust me, I’ve tested this method!

Brides, remember: Beauty isn’t just in the products — it’s in the pause. The calm. The way you care for yourself amid all the chaos. Carving out time for yourself is vital. So take a beat, sip your tea and give your spirit the same attention you give your skincare.

Love you matcha! ■

About the Author Brittneé Patterson, founder of Beauty by Beé and the creative mind behind Makeup & Matcha, is a beauty alchemist with more than 13 years as a licensed cosmetologist. She launched her business while pregnant with her oldest son, a turning point that followed her return from Afghanistan. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Brittneé served for six years, including one deployment, before realizing her long-term calling lived beyond military life. Today, she devotes her artistry to enhancing the natural beauty of brides and creating moments that live on. Brittneé understands that every bride arrives with her own vision, needs and comforts, and she tailors her services with intention. From personalized consultations to on-site support, she guides each client through a bridal beauty experience designed to feel personal, grounding and unforgettable.

Beauty by Beé | beautybybeellc.com

POUR, PAUSE & PAMPER

Your wedding-day radiance starts long before you walk down the aisle. From soothing skincare to serene self-care staples, this matcha-minded guide helps you set intentions, calm pre-wedding jitters and feel beautifully grounded.

CELEBRATION LOCATIONS

Your venue is more than just a backdrop. From grand ballrooms to intimate gardens, where you say your vows truly shapes your wedding experience. In this section, discover venue styles, planning insights and the thoughtful details that help each space come alive.

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SETTING THE SCENE Outlining types of wedding venues YOUR VENUE SEARCH, SIMPLIFIED

Choosing your celebration location

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CRAFTING THE PERFECT GUEST EXPERIENCE

Considering your guests

10 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN MAKING YOUR GUEST LIST Narrowing down who to invite THE PERFECT SPOT Venue Features THIS MUST BE THE PLACE Celebration Locations and Prelude to the Party

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to ask your Questions VENUE

• What is your capacity for seated and standing guests?

• Do you offer spaces for both the ceremony and reception?

• How do you transition the room from ceremony to reception, and what are the available floor plans?

• What is the length of time included in our booking? When do we need to exit the venue?

• What time can we gain access to the venue for setup?

• Can the wedding party get ready at the venue? If so, where?

• Are there any items included in the booking, such as linens, tables, or furniture?

• Are we required to use your preferred vendors, including catering?

• Are we allowed to bring our own alcohol?

• What are the parking options for guests?

• What are the accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps or elevators?

• If needed, what alternatives do you provide for inclement weather?

• Are there any planned building works or renovations scheduled near our wedding date?

SETTING SCENE THE Types of Wedding Venues

When planning their wedding, many couples start with selecting and securing their venue. After all, your venue will ultimately influence your celebration’s mood, logistics and design choices. From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony to the reception, there are a lot of options for what your wedding landscape will be. Keep things simple and streamlined by planning all your festivities in one spot or treat your guests to several locations. Whatever you choose as your venue(s), take into account the aesthetics and overall vision, but also think about these important aspects:

• Location — How easily will guests be able to arrive and exit the venue? Is the venue located near hotels? Do you want a spot within the city or in the suburbs and beyond? How far are you willing to travel?

• Cost — Will you adjust other budget items to accommodate a specific venue? Does your desired wedding date have a higher peak-season rate?

• Amenities & Decor — How much will the venue provide, and how much will you need to bring yourself? How many restrooms are there and what are they like? Is it accessible? Is there a catering kitchen?

• Size — What is the maximum capacity? Will the venue be too large or too small for your guest list?

• Preferred Vendors — Does the venue have a list of preferred vendors you’re limited to?

• Privacy — How private or public will the venue be? Is there a risk of strangers and passersby stumbling into it? What is security like?

HOTEL

Hosting your wedding at a hotel or resort is a dream for couples expecting lots of out-of-towners.

On-site accommodations mean your guests can roll out of bed and into the festivities without breaking a sweat or hunting for a rideshare at 2 a.m.! Many hotels and resorts offer a variety of celebration locations, from utilizing the hotel restaurant for your rehearsal dinner, booking a ballroom for the big “I do” or posting up in a hospitality suite for getting ready the morning of. Plus, when the dance floor closes down, no one needs to worry about finding a designated driver. They can simply stumble to the elevator and call it a night. Talk about convenience!

Right: The Starling. Photo by Fotos by Fola

RESIDENCE

Private residences carry a sentimental charm that standard venues can’t touch. Getting hitched in grandma’s garden or your childhood backyard? That’s the kind of magic money can’t buy! These spaces offer complete privacy and intimacy since they’re not open to the public. Just keep in mind that while you might not pay a venue fee, you’ll likely need to bring in coordinators, caterers, staff and setup crews to transform the space into weddingready perfection. But when you’re exchanging vows where you grew up or where your sweetest memories were made? Totally worth the extra legwork.

EVENT HALL

Event halls are the dependable best friend of the wedding venue world — they show up ready to work! These purposebuilt spaces are literally designed for celebrations like yours, meaning they’ve got every detail dialed in. Most come with an in-house dream team that can include caterers, planners, designers and event staff who’ve seen it all. Another benefit comes with the assets. Event halls are typically stocked with all the essentials, like sound systems, furniture and basic decor, so you can focus on personalizing the space rather than starting from scratch and sourcing every detail.

Left: Summerour Studio. Photo by Meli & Chris Wedding Photography

COUNTRY CLUB

Views and greens abound! Country clubs and golf courses lend themselves to stunning panoramic photo opportunities and event backdrops, something you can’t replicate in the city. Beyond the jaw-dropping scenery, these venues deliver white-glove service, multiple event spaces and experienced staff who know their way around a wedding reception. Many country clubs limit events to their members only, so you’ll want to check the fine print before you get your heart set on one. But hey, that exclusivity means extra privacy and security for your big day. Not a bad trade-off!

Above: Capital City Country Club. Photo by Kim Hymes Photography

HISTORIC ESTATE OR SITE

Character abounds with a historic site or estate as a venue. By leaning into the splendor of the past, you can ease up on decor rentals and let the space speak for itself. Think sweeping gardens, breathtaking architecture and that irreplaceable richness that only history can provide. If timeless elegance is your jam, a historic estate might be calling your name. Fair warning though: these beauties can lack modern amenities like ample restrooms or grounded power outlets. But for that vintage charm and welcoming grandeur, many couples find it’s a worthy trade.

WINERY OR BREWERY

Gilded halls and fine china place settings aren’t for everyone. Some couples feel more at home celebrating among wooden kegs and toasting with frothy pint glasses. A wedding at a winery or brewery offers a natural, relaxed vibe that feels refreshingly authentic. Many of these sites have on-site kitchens perfect for whipping up delicious food and drink pairings. No in-house catering? No problem. Food trucks in the parking lot can bring the flavor!

Above: Château Élan. Photo by Glorianna Chan Photography

MUSEUM

While your wedding will be the masterpiece on display, a museum venue adds culture and conversation to the mix! Guests can meander through exhibits between cocktails and dinner, immersing themselves in a textured, unforgettable experience. Museums are also ideal for accommodating guests from different social circles. Nothing breaks the ice like bonding over a fascinating display. When your love story deserves gallery-worthy treatment, a museum setting brings that artistic flair.

Right: Atlanta Contemporary. Photo by Ashley White Photos

RESTAURANT

Picking a stylish restaurant, cafe or bar as your venue means built-in ambiance. And you know the food and drink are going to be spectacular. Win-win! Restaurants with cozy capacity are perfect for intimate weddings that feel warm rather than sparse. Many offer private dining rooms for rent, while others let you buy out the entire space for bigger guest lists. As a bonus, you’ve just locked in your anniversary date night spot for life. What’s more special than celebrating in the very spot where you tied the knot?

Above: The Ramspeck.

BARN

Rustic charm and countryside serenity come naturally at barn or farmhouse venues. These spaces offer tons of room, which is ideal for large weddings that require both indoor and outdoor options. And don’t feel confined by the given rustic aesthetic! Barns are surprisingly versatile and can be glammed up to create a stunning juxtaposition of country charm and sophistication. For couples craving a breath of fresh air and an escape from city life, a barn or farmhouse delivers that peaceful, blissful vibe in spades. ■

Below: Meadows at Mossy Creek. Photo by Izzy + Co

A VENUE AS UNIQUE AS YOU

Your Venue Search, Simplified

FROM DEFINING YOUR VISION TO SIGNING THE CONTRACT, GLORIA SCHULZ OF GLORIA SCHULZ EVENTS BREAKS DOWN HOW TO CONFIDENTLY CHOOSE THE BACKDROP FOR YOUR BIG DAY.

In the midst of dreaming up your perfect day, soon comes the big question: Where will you celebrate your wedding?

Choosing your wedding venue is the first and most important decision in the planning process. It sets the vibe, influences your guest list and claims one of the largest portions of your wedding budget. It can feel a little overwhelming, I know! But don’t worry, with our expert guidance and a clear vision, you’ll find the perfect spot to say “I do.”

DEFINE YOUR WEDDING VISION

Before scrolling through endless Instagram pages, sit down with your fiancé for a heart-to-heart conversation. What kind of wedding do you both want? And what’s the theme? Classic and timeless? Rustic and romantic? Chic and modern? Grand and sophisticated? Intimate and bohemian? Ultimately, your venue choice should feel authentic to who you are as a couple and reflect an atmosphere you feel most comfortable in.

DETERMINE YOUR GUEST COUNT

The next tough question: Will it be a small, intimate celebration or a 300-person affair? I know how hard it is to pare down your guest list, but you have be realistic to your vision and budget. You can’t invite everyone you know, so keep your count

limited to those who you really want celebrating with you.

ESTABLISH YOUR VENUE BUDGET

With venues consuming about 40% of your overall wedding budget, be honest about how much you’re comfortable spending. Only look at venues you can afford; otherwise, you risk falling in love with a venue that’s out of budget. Consider must-have amenities and features: Do you want an outdoor ceremony space? An outdoor cocktail hour area? On-site accommodations for guests? Accessibility features? Having a clear picture of your wedding vision makes the venue search much easier and less overwhelming.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Consider the practicality of the location for you and your guests. Do you want to marry where you met, where you grew up, where you currently live or at a vacation destination? Are there affordable hotels nearby for out-of-town guests? Is the venue easily accessible by air, car or public transport? What’s the parking situation? Are there activities for guests to enjoy in the area?

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Online research is a great starting point. Check out venue websites, browse photos and read reviews from real couples. But don’t get bogged down with endless options. I suggest narrowing your search down to three or four venues that you’d love to see in person.

SCHEDULE SITE VISITS

Pictures can be beautiful, but also deceiving! Video calls are helpful, but nothing beats walking into a venue and immediately feeling “this is the one.” Take note of:

The overall ambiance and aesthetic. Does it align with your wedding vision? Can you picture your day here?

The layout and flow. Is there enough space for your guests, ceremony and reception? Does it flow logically?

The condition of the venue. Does it look well-maintained? Is it clean and in good repair?

The staff. Are they friendly, professional and responsive to your questions? (This is a huge indicator of the service you can expect throughout planning and on your wedding day.)

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Inquire about capacity, included items, rental time hours, restrictions, vendor policies, vendor recommendations, setup and takedown procedures and any potential extra costs.

UNDERSTAND THE CONTRACT

Once you’ve found a venue you love, request a contract and thoroughly review it before signing. I recommend having another set of eyes, like your wedding planner, reviewing it, too, as they’ll know any red flags to look for. Don’t assume anything and pay close attention to:

Payment terms and cancellation policy. Understand your financial obligations — and what happens if you need to postpone or cancel, especially when it comes to penalty timelines.

What’s included in the rental fee. Are tables, chairs, linens and basic setup included in the cost? If not, what’s the additional fee?

Vendor requirements. Are you required to use their in-house caterer or bar service? If you use an outside caterer,

About the Author

is there an additional fee? Do they have a preferred vendor list? Do they require wedding insurance? (I highly recommend it regardless.)

TRUST YOUR GUT

While practicality and logistics are important, don’t discount your gut feeling. Does the venue feel right to both of you? Can you envision celebrating with family and friends there? Does it reflect your love story? Sometimes, that intangible feeling is the most important factor. ■

Gloria Schulz is the founder of Gloria Schulz Events, an Atlantabased custom wedding planning and day-of coordination company. After assisting with weddings for a few years, Gloria left her 19-year career in customer service and launched Gloria Schulz Events in 2019. Now with seven years of weddings under her belt, she and her team are ready to help you create an enjoyable experience, both before and on your wedding day.

Gloria Schulz Events | gloriaschulzevents.com

10 thingsTO CONSIDER WHEN MAKING YOUR GUEST LIST

Many couples feel torn between who they want to invite, who they feel obligated to invite and what guest count their budget can realistically support. If you’re feeling that same pressure, you’re far from alone. It is widely agreed on that guest list decisions are one of the most challenging parts of planning!

To make it all feel more manageable, here are tips and considerations for determining who will be celebrating alongside you on your wedding day.

1 | VENUE CAPACITY

Your venue’s capacity is a non-negotiable factor — this is not an area where you can bend the rules. If your venue tells you its capacity is 100, please don’t assume 101 will be OK. Overcrowding can be an uncomfortable experience for everyone, not to mention the safety concerns. As you build your guest list, let the venue’s capacity serve as a clear and essential starting point.

2 | CATERING BUDGET

You’ll likely know your overall wedding budget by the time you begin building your guest list. To stay on track financially, calculate your caterer’s price per head and compare it with the portion of your budget you’ve allocated for catering. This will give you a clear sense of how many guests you can comfortably host, regardless of venue capacity.

3 | TIERS OF GUESTS

Divide your potential guests into tiers: “Must Have” (immediate family and close friends), “Love to Have” (extended family and acquaintances) and “If There’s Space” (coworkers and parents’ friends). Start building your list with the “Must Haves” and work your way down. This approach helps you prioritize who belongs on the final list and who, unfortunately, may not make the cut.

4 | CURATION IS KEY

Don’t feel obligated to invite everyone you know. It’s your wedding, and you’re not required to invite people whose RSVP response won’t hold much meaning to you. Ask yourself, “Will I be sad if Jack and Jill can’t make it?” If the answer is no and your guest list is already tight, Jack and Jill can be left off the list without too much guilt.

5 | ADULTS ONLY?

Early on, decide with your partner what your child policy will be. Part of this means considering who may be unable to attend if children aren’t invited (we all know childcare can be hard to coordinate, especially if traveling). An adults-only celebration is an easy way to keep your guest list slim, but enforcing a child-free embargo may not be possible depending on family dynamics. If that’s the case, consider setting an age guideline —

6 | PARENTAL PARAMETERS

If your guest list is starting to get too long, consider giving your parents a set allowance of guests they can invite. Assigning them a specific number helps keep things from getting out of hand — and ensures you don’t end up in a room full of strangers! If things get sticky, have an open conversation with your parents to understand their expectations and make compromises where possible.

7 | PLUS-ONES

The age-old question remains: Should you allow plus-ones or not? A common guideline is to offer plus-ones to your wedding party, married couples, engaged pairs and long-term partners. However, if you have the wiggle room in your venue capacity and budget, extending the option to single friends can also be a thoughtful gesture. The most important rule of plusones is to be clear about your policy, especially on the invitation. If you’re allowing a guest to bring an unknown date, address the invitation with your guest’s name followed by “and guest.”

8 | USE A SPREADSHEET

Spreadsheets are your friends! Create a detailed spreadsheet to track your guest list, RSVP status and meal preferences. This will help keep everything organized and ensure no one is forgotten. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of addresses for when you send out thank-you notes afterward.

9 | SAVE THE DATE WITH CERTAINTY

Only send save-the-dates to people you are certain will be invited. This helps prevent awkward conversations or hurt feelings later if your guest list needs to be trimmed. You can always send an official invitation down the line, but it is much harder to un-extend an invite.

10 | KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

Guest list stresses don’t have to consume your planning experience. To keep things manageable, take breaks! As your wedding plans evolve, revisit and revise the list periodically, making adjustments based on new information or changing circumstances. And don’t forget to order a few extra invitations to accommodate any last-minute additions.

Go ahead and accept that you can’t — and won’t — please everyone. Instead, focus on what will make you and your partner the happiest. Don’t hesitate to consult friends, family or your wedding planner for advice and support; sometimes an outside perspective can provide the clarity you need.

Finally, remember why you’re getting married. The most important thing is celebrating your love and commitment, not the size of the guest list. ■

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CRAFTING the PERFECT Guest EXPERIENCE

Your wedding is, at its core, a celebration of you and your forever person. But let’s be honest, it’s also the ultimate excuse to gather all your favorite people in one place for one big party. In the age of texts and video chats, having everyone together IRL is a gift all its own.

So how do you make the day just as memorable for your guests as it is for you? With a little intention (and a few thoughtful touches), you can create an experience they’ll be thankful they put on their arch-aching high heels for. Here are some easy ways to put your guests first:

TRUST YOUR PLANNER

Your planner has seen hundreds of weddings and knows exactly which small touches turn a celebration into something unforgettable. Trust their instincts — they’ll dream up ideas you never even knew you needed.

GO ONLINE

A well-stocked wedding website is a guest’s best friend, giving them everything from dress codes to directions in one easy spot. It keeps everyone on the same page and drastically reduces the “So, what time is the ceremony again?” texts. Think of it as your celebration’s stylish, simple and stress-free command center.

GIVE LOCAL TIPS

If you’re expecting out-of-town guests, consider adding recommendations for must-see attractions on your website. Steer guests to your favorite hole-inthe-wall restaurant, hidden gem art gallery or local boutique and give them an insider’s look into your world.

SECURE HOTEL ROOM BLOCKS

Secure room blocks so guests don’t have to scramble for lodging or guess

which part of town to stay in. It simplifies their travel planning and encourages more group hangouts throughout the weekend. Plus, keeping everyone under one roof means late-night pajama chats and lobby reunions that stretch the celebration beyond the venue.

RSVP WITH EASE

Make responding effortless with a QR code linking to an online form or prestamped, pre-addressed RSVP cards. The easier you make the process, the faster those answers roll in. And fewer missing RSVPs means fewer last-minute headaches for you and your vendors.

MAKE WELCOME BAGS

Who doesn’t like a little gift? Welcome bags are a small gesture that deliver a big dose of hospitality. Stock them with snacks, water, pain relievers and a weekend itinerary to help guests feel taken care of from the moment

they arrive. The more personalized the contents, the better.

PLAN FOR WEATHER

If your ceremony is outdoors, plan for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. To keep guests comfortable no matter the forecast, offer things like sunglasses for sunny skies, fans for humid afternoons or blankets for chilly evenings. Your guests will appreciate these small touches of comfort!

ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION

Providing transportation to and from the venue allows guests to relax and enjoy the night without worrying about driving or parking. It also keeps the timeline running smoothly, since everyone arrives together. Just make sure the shuttle schedule is easy to find so no one misses the bus.

GIVE LATE-NIGHT SNACKS

After hours of celebrating, your guests will be hungry again! Whether it’s donuts, fries, sliders or another easy grab-and-go treat, guests will flock to late-night snacks like a beacon of joy.

SHOW THANKS

Let your guests know how meaningful their presence is, whether they traveled across town or across the country. A heartfelt thank-you — during the reception, in your program or in a follow-up note — makes them feel valued and connected to your day. Thoughtfulness lingers long after the last song plays.

All the small touches work together to create an elevated, thoughtful experience that guests will remember long after the day is over. With intention and care, your wedding will become a celebration your loved ones will talk about for years to come. ■

Photography (opposite page)

1 Hunter Hennes Photography | 2 The Snells | 3 Kara Hunter Photography

4 The Snells | 5 Tags Photography

6 Crystal Photography | 7 Christina Dianne Photography | 8 River Wild Photography | 9 Hellen CO Photos

10 Caroline Stephens Photo

FOREVER STARTS HERE

The Perfect Spot

VENUE FEATURES

Your reception site is often one of the first decisions you’ll make as you begin to plan your wedding, driving your aesthetic as well as many other elements of the day. There are so many options and the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. From ballrooms and mansions to lofts and gardens, these venues and more can be found on the following pages. Keep this resource handy during your planning to help navigate this important decision, ensuring a picture-perfect venue fit for your big day.

42WEST 1088 HUFF RD. NW, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — So much thought and love were put into every detail for 42West! It was created with heart and a true knowing of what couples are looking for. The venue is complete with stunning industrial farmhouse tables, beautiful metal Tolix chairs, highlystyled lounge furniture and existing ambient decor, which is all included! The entrance is so unique and unlike anything you will ever find. With a speakeasy-style entrance, you are led to our outdoor space, which has a clean, modern industrial feel but is softened by the massive trees that cover the exterior space. With so many wonderful attributes, what our couples love the most is that you are permitted to bring in the caterer of your choice and/or provide your own alcohol if you desire. From DIY to full wedding productions, the amenities and service are the same. With a 25-year planning veteran at the helm of your wedding experience, you are set to have a perfect wedding day!

SPECIAL FEATURES — Unique, high-end industrial and exclusive feel, gorgeous mature trees, highly-styled lounge furniture, unrestricted event times, load-in/out.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 3

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 300

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Historic Location, Industrial/Loft, Outdoor, Unique/Alternative

CATERING CHOICES: Preferred Caterers, All Catering Welcome

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS: Complimentary On-Site Parking, Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

CALLANWOLDE FINE ARTS CENTER

980 BRIARCLIFF RD. NE, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — With a century-long legacy, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, in Atlanta’s Druid Hills neighborhood, was established by the Candler family as a sprawling, 27,000-square-foot mansion. Employing skilled architects and craftsmen, it stands as one of the city’s most distinct venues. Despite its urban setting, Callanwolde provides a secluded and tranquil ambiance, complemented by its beautiful gardens.

Callanwolde’s versatile rooms cater to both intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations. The great hall with its grand staircase offers an elegant indoor setting for ceremonies, while the gardens’ lush greenery and vibrant blooms create a romantic atmosphere for outdoor ceremonies. Whether you envision an indoor or outdoor event, Callanwolde offers the perfect setting, with a range of amenities, a dedicated staff, and the option to bring your own alcohol to make your day unforgettable.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Lush gardens, exquisite architecture, grand staircase with stained glass windows, five unique ceremony locations and only one event a day.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 5

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 200

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Historic Location

CATERING CHOICES: Preferred Caterers

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS:

Complimentary On-Site Parking

THE STARLING, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

188 14TH ST. NW, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — We vow to wow. From the moment you begin envisioning your day to the final toast, our team guides every step with style and intention. Our wedding venues in Midtown Atlanta are among the city’s most glamorous, whether you’re dreaming of a ballroom framed by skyline views or a 9,000-square-foot space designed to host even the grandest guest list with ease.

SPECIAL FEATURES — A penthouse-level ballroom featuring 360-degree, floor-toceiling windows showcasing unforgettable views of Atlanta. Luxurious overnight accommodations for you and your guests, paired with thoughtful amenities and elevated service throughout your celebration.

CONTACT —

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 25

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 500

VENUE STYLE: Indoor Event Space, Ballroom, Hotel/Resort, Restaurant, Unique/Alternative

CATERING CHOICES: On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available

THE

WALDORF ASTORIA

ATLANTA BUCKHEAD

3376 PEACHTREE RD. NE, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Celebrate the style, elegance and beauty of a day that is like no other at a hotel that is like no other — Waldorf Astoria.

Whether planning an intimate gathering or grand reception for your special day, Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead can help you make it unforgettable. Rely on our dedicated team to handle every detail with care and embrace our adaptable event spaces to customize and bring your dream wedding to life.

Our event space is naturally lit and opens up to a stunning terrace, with ballroom space for up to 120 guests seated and up to 250 guests for a reception. For a enticing outdoor ceremony, our lush private garden offers a serene escape amidst the cityscape.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Lush private gardens with city views, signature full-service spa, indoor pool, signature restaurant.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 11

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 150

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Banquet Hall, Hotel/Resort, Outdoor, Restaurant

CATERING CHOICES: On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, Chiavari Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

AT A GLANCE

THE 1904 ON PIEDMONT PARK

559 DUTCH VALLEY RD., ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Elegant yet understated, The 1904 on Piedmont Park offers a spectacular setting for any event. With soft limewashed brick, warm wood accents, floor-to-ceiling windows and sparkling chandeliers, The 1904 provides a sophisticated canvas to bring your unique vision to life — whether it’s the wedding of your dreams, a bar or bat mitzvah, corporate gathering, holiday party, milestone birthday, bridal or baby shower, or another special celebration. Flexible floor plans and furnishings comfortably accommodate groups from 30 to 300 — and everyone in between.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Brand new venue, custom fixtures, glass garden room, city skyline views, rooftop terrace, speakeasy style bar, in-house boutique catering, custom menus.

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware

PARKING

AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

141 E. COLLEGE AVE., DECATUR, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Imagine celebrating your special day surrounded by the beauty of lush green gardens and the dignity of the traditional collegiate architecture surrounding our chapel. Agnes Scott offers rental space in a beautiful campus setting with a variety of rooms and lecture halls featuring advanced technology. We also provide catering services and the personalized attention you need for a successful event. Every event is unique and we are here to help you make it a success!

The Julia Thompson Smith Chapel is available for your special day. Your ceremony can take place in our stunning yet intimate Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired chapel, designed to allow its natural setting to enhance special occasions. The chapel is approximately 1,100 square feet with seating for up to 140 people. Multiple indoor and outdoor event facilities that seat up to 425 guests are available for your special occasion. For an unparalleled celebration filled with charm, beauty and modern conveniences, reserve your date today with Agnes Scott College in historic Decatur.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Historic site, picturesque campus, event lawns, garden, hardwood floors, LEED-certified buildings, located six miles from downtown Atlanta.

CONTACT — 404.471.6043 | SPECIALEVENTS@AGNESSCOTT.EDU AGNESSCOTT.EDU/EVENTRENTALS

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 6

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 350

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Historic Location

CATERING CHOICES: On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Complimentary On-Site Parking

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 13

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 350

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Banquet Hall, Restaurant

CATERING CHOICES:

On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS:

Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

THE AMERICAN HOTEL ATLANTA DOWNTOWN TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON

160 TED TURNER DR. NW, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — The American Hotel is one of a kind, highlighting regional history and authentic, story-driven experiences. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this landmark hotel has been hosting glamorous celebrations since its debut in 1962. As part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, The American tells a story through its décor, amenities and themed offerings. From its upscale, stylish design to personalized service and immersive atmosphere, the hotel appeals to curious travelers and couples who value character, charm and a personalized feel. Guests can enjoy an immersive local experience, not a cookie cutter stay!

SPECIAL FEATURES — Relaxing outdoor pool equipped with a classic Airstream trailer and scenic backdrop of the Atlanta Ferris wheel!

CONTACT — EVENT SPECIALIST | 678.686.3324

WEDDINGS@AMERICANHOTELATLANTA.COM AMERICANHOTELATLANTA.COM

THE FOX THEATRE

660 PEACHTREE ST. NE, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Weddings made magical. Experience the wedding of your dreams come to life at The Fox Theatre! Positioned at the corner of Peachtree and Ponce on the Midtown Mile, The Fox Theatre’s grand arcade entrance, crowned with the iconic marquee, is the perfect atmosphere to welcome your guests for a fabulous first impression. With two distinct event spaces featuring majestic architecture, The Fox offers options for both ceremony and receptions, along with an outdoor rooftop terrace.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Our grand Arcade entrance, crowned with the theatre’s iconic marquee, is the perfect place to welcome your guests for a fabulous first impression at your event. Rentals include dance floor and lighting in the Egyptian Ballroom.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 2

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 350

VENUE STYLE: Indoor Event Space, Ballroom, Historic Location

CATERING CHOICES: Preferred Caterers

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS: Nearby/Parking Garage

MANUELLLANERAS PHOTOGRAPHY

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 14

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 500

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Hotel/Resort

CATERING CHOICES:

On-Site Catering, Preferred Caterers

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, Chiavari Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

GRAND HYATT ATLANTA IN BUCKHEAD

3300 PEACHTREE RD. NE, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Experience the newly reimagined Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead, where modern elegance meets timeless Southern charm. The hotel’s refreshed rooms and suites offer sweeping city skyline or tranquil garden views, creating the perfect setting for you and your guests. In the heart of Buckhead, your celebration unfolds amid sophisticated design, warm hospitality and effortless access to Atlanta’s premier shopping and dining.

Tucked within the hotel’s grounds, the serene Japanese Zen Garden — with its 30-foot cascading waterfall — offers a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and photography. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead features versatile indoor and outdoor venues, curated cuisine and personalized service to bring every wedding vision beautifully to life.

SPECIAL FEATURES — A Buckhead icon for more than 30 years, Grand Hyatt Atlanta is renowned for wedding expertise, exceptional service and dramatic modern spaces. Highlights include two outdoor terraces set amid Japanese gardens with a 30-foot waterfall and a rooftop venue.

KIMPTON THE SHANE

1340 W. PEACHTREE ST. NW, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — You’ve found your one and only. Now it’s time to celebrate. Couples choose Kimpton Shane Hotel to put a spin on their wedding weekend: the rehearsal dinner, post-dinner cocktails and farewell brunch are all hosted with warm flair and fabulous food. We can also accommodate wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Our stylish spaces are perfect for the intimate revelry of a small wedding. Host a wedding and reception in our stunning ballroom, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. Toast to happily ever after on our outdoor patio. Bid farewell to your guests at brunch in our private dining space. Our dedicated planner will help you plan every detail so you can relax and be in the moment.

Our spaces are perfect for: Weddings, elopements, vow renewals, commitment ceremonies, cocktail receptions, family reunions and celebrations, anniversary parties and room blocks for your family and friends.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Experience a seamless wedding weekend at the Kimpton Shane Hotel Atlanta with exclusive packages, stunning venues, and personalized service for your special day! Enjoy creative catering and refined menus via our celebrated chef.

CONTACT — CLAIRE SHOULTS | 470.945.6036 | CLAIRE.SHOULTS@IHG.COM SHANEHOTELATLANTA.COM

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 7

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 100

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Hotel/Resort

CATERING CHOICES:

On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

MOXY HOTEL ATLANTA MIDTOWN

48 13TH ST., ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Don’t settle for an ordinary hotel experience. Our Moxy Hotel Atlanta Midtown offers everything you need in a boutique hotel with a fun-loving atmosphere. Starting at check-in, we’re built to be different. Guests are greeted at the bar, where your room key is paired with a cocktail on the house. With all the modern conveniences you expect, such as free WiFi, TVs equipped with streaming services and a comfy place to relax and recharge, you’ll feel right at home #atthemoxy. Our hotel in Midtown Atlanta is situated in the heart of the city’s vibrant art scene, featuring over 25 cultural venues, more than 30 performing arts centers and 20 entertainment venues.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Rooftop venue with amazing views of Midtown.

RENTAL

PARKING

RUBY CHOW’S

620 GLEN IRIS DR. NE, UNIT C-1, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Step into the vibrant world of Ruby Chow’s, a truly unique Atlanta venue that blends innovative Pan-Asian and Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine with an eclectic, high-energy atmosphere. Our dining room is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant decor, crushed velvet accents and a boudoir-chic vibe that creates an intimate, unforgettable setting for any event.

What truly sets us apart is the fusion of flavors — our small, shareable plates like Spicy Pork Noodle and Miso Black Cod are consistently praised as culinary masterpieces. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, our stylish ambiance, covered and heated patio area, inventive cocktails, and attentive service guarantee a memorable experience that guests will rave about.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Ruby Chow’s features a covered outdoor patio with art and heaters and two intimate dining rooms with velvet accents and distinctive decor.

CONTACT — BRIAN SEO | 404.585.7829 | SERVICE@RUBYCHOWS.COM RUBYCHOWS.COM

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 4

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 140

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Restaurant

CATERING CHOICES:

On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 43

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 2,600

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Hotel/Resort, Restaurant

CATERING CHOICES: On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

SIGNIA BY HILTON ATLANTA

159 NORTHSIDE DR. NW, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Discover unexpected bliss at the newest downtown Atlanta wedding venue — from your rehearsal dinner to pampering at the spa and beauty bar to a memorable ceremony and joyful reception. Signia by Hilton Atlanta has it all: Grand ballrooms for lavish weddings to elegant indoor and outdoor venues for intimate “minimonies.”

Our 976-room property is located steps away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena and offers eight food and beverage experiences, an impressive art collection of more than 70 original works that pay tribute to Atlanta and the Southeast; and Club Signia, a private sanctuary of comfort and sophistication.

Let us host the new chapter of your love story.

SPECIAL FEATURES — More than 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia; a grand outdoor event deck and lawn.

ABOUT THE VENUE — Discover the distinguished elegance of The Whitley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Atlanta Buckhead, where timeless sophistication meets Southern charm. Set in the heart of Buckhead, Atlanta’s most celebrated neighborhood, The Whitley offers a collection of refined venues that bring your wedding vision to life. Say “I do” beneath the sparkling crystal chandeliers of the Legacy Ballroom, then toast to forever on the private terrace overlooking sweeping views of the city skyline.

Every detail — from exquisite catering to impeccable service — reflects the signature grace and grandeur of a true Southern soiree. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a lavish reception, The Whitley provides an unforgettable setting where elegance, romance and hospitality converge for a celebration that’s as unique as your love story.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Located in the heart of Buckhead within walking distance of premier shopping destinations. Elegant hotel featuring a grand ballroom adorned with crystal chandeliers.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 6

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 450

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Hotel/Resort

CATERING CHOICES:

On-Site Catering, Preferred Caterers

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, Chiavari Chairs, China, Flatware, Stemware, House Linens

PARKING OPTIONS: Valet Available, Nearby/Parking Garage

THE WIMBISH HOUSE

1150 PEACHTREE ST. NE, ATLANTA, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Historic charm, glamorous ballroom, Southern elegance. An unforgettable setting for the day you’ll always remember. This lovely, fully restored Victorianera home features high ceilings, period furnishings, hardwood floors, steep gables, intricate detailing and massive stone masonry ornamentation. A graceful, curved staircase allows for memorable entrances into a grand parlor. Formal reception rooms are accented by tall archways and columns, and flow into the elegant dining room, sunroom and restored 1920’s ballroom. In addition to wedding ceremonies and receptions, this location can accommodate all of your wedding events, such as engagement parties, bridal showers and rehearsal dinners.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Grand pianos, antique crystal chandeliers and fireplaces. A covered veranda provides an outdoor space for cocktail hour and photos.

CATERING

RENTAL

PARKING OPTIONS: See

MEADOWS AT MOSSY CREEK

3216 HWY. 75 S., CLEVELAND, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Modern meets mountains. Meadows at Mossy Creek is an industrial farmhouse meets modern wedding venue, the perfect blend of rustic and new-fashioned Southern flair. Nestled on over 100 sprawling acres, sweeping views set a stunning backdrop for your perfect day. Offering multiple ceremony and reception options, we truly have the ability to bring your vision to life. Our concrete floors, string lighting and exposed beams offer a dreamy feel with an industrial touch and we also feature a movable fern wall along with stunning floral hanging box displays. Both the bride and groom are taken care of with special places for each to get ready and relax before they walk down the aisle. Our team strives to create the day you’ve always dreamed of by wowing you and your guests with a gorgeous setting and a truly memorable experience.

SPECIAL FEATURES — The massive amounts of windows streaming in natural light with the tall ceilings and white walls is a photographer’s dream, which is code for perfect conditions to obtain stunning wedding day photos. Rental also includes bridal cottage and groom’s room.

CONTACT — KARSON & CALAH COKER | 888.662.7335 KARSON@MEADOWSMOSSYCREEK.COM | MEADOWSMOSSYCREEK.COM

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 1

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 275

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Barn/Farm, Unique/Alternative

CATERING CHOICES: All Catering Welcome

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS:

Complimentary On-Site Parking

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 6

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 500

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom

CATERING CHOICES: On-Site Catering

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS: Complimentary On-Site Parking

DOUGLASVILLE CONFERENCE CENTER

6700 CHURCH ST., DOUGLASVILLE, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Nestled in historic downtown Douglasville, the new conference center is uniquely equipped to offer everything you need to stage a spectacular event. Whether planning an intimate or large-scale affair, the conference center can accommodate groups from 15 to 500 guests.

Along with its exquisite architecture and beautiful landscape, the conference center includes a 7,672-square-foot ballroom that can be divided into five separate rooms, in addition to a business center, bride and groom dressing rooms, two pre-function areas and a 150-seat auditorium. The conference center also features a breathtaking rear terrace that overlooks Douglasville’s charming historic district. The unique blend of elegance and advanced technology equipped rooms makes the new Douglasville Conference Center the perfect choice for weddings.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Rear terrace, O’Neal Plaza, located in the historic district, 30 minutes west of Atlanta including the airport, two bridal/groom suites.

THE IVY ON THE PLAINS

1831 JERNIGAN BRIDGE RD., WHITE PLAINS, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Nestled on 36 acres of serene countryside just minutes from Lake Oconee, The Ivy on the Plains offers a wedding experience where natural beauty meets refined elegance. This premier venue boasts a stunning lakefront view, a grand white bridge, and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces. Ruby’s Barn, a climate-controlled space adorned with crystal chandeliers and flowing drapery, provides an elevated backdrop for receptions, while Minnie’s Garden offers an intimate, open-air option. Couples can prepare for their special day in the luxurious Magnolia and Percy Houses, ensuring comfort and style. With the capacity to host up to 300 guests, The Ivy on the Plains offers all-inclusive packages tailored to each couple’s vision, making every celebration uniquely memorable. The dedicated mother-daughter team behind the venue brings a personal touch to every event, ensuring that your wedding is not just an occasion but an unforgettable experience.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Lakefront views, crystal chandeliers, private homes, grand white bridge, lush gardens, customizable packages, elegant barn and intimate garden venue.

GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 3

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 300

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Barn/Farm, Waterfront

CATERING CHOICES: All Catering Welcome

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs, Chiavari Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS: Complimentary On-Site Parking

PHOTOGRAPHY

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 6

MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 400

VENUE STYLE:

Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Ballroom, Banquet Hall, Outdoor

CATERING CHOICES:

Preferred Caterers

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, House Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS:

Complimentary On-Site Parking

THE NEWNAN CENTRE

1515 LOWER FAYETTEVILLE RD., NEWNAN, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — The Newnan Centre is the perfect venue for the perfect wedding day! Our event spaces include options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Very few wedding venue packages in the area provide both wedding options. The Newnan Centre aims to be your full-service wedding venue. The Newnan Centre is an elegantly appointed venue with a 6,060-square-foot grand ballroom, beautiful, landscaped grounds, state-ofthe art technical capabilities, and many amenities that you and your guests are sure to adore. On-site bridal and groom suites are also included in the wedding packages. The bridal suite overlooks a picturesque view of our lush landscaping and the Centre’s focal point – the outdoor Gazebo where the most beautiful outdoor ceremonies take place. Our professional staff will assist you with every detail to ensure your special day is exactly as you’ve dreamed of all these years. All you have to do is enjoy the day you’ve been waiting your entire life to experience. We don’t just host weddings; we make a lifetime of memories. Your event is sure to be memorable and flawless at the Newnan Centre.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Beautifully landscaped grounds with picturesque views from our outdoor gazebo. Elegantly appointed grand ballroom, outdoor patio, and bridal suites.

THE OAKLEY ON THE LAKE

2475 PEMMICAN RUN, GAINESVILLE, GA

ABOUT THE VENUE — Unveiling The Oakley on the Lake, a distinct blend of modern-industrial elegance situated at the scenic Lake Lanier — your unique space for perfect beginnings.

We specialize in curating personal and memorable experiences for weddings and special events. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony or grand festivities, our versatile indoor and outdoor spaces are adaptable to your dream day.

Let The Oakley Team walk alongside you in creating a day that mirrors your personality and style, with every detail attended to. From our garden patio, ideal for ceremonies, receptions, and cocktail hours, to our attentive staff committed to bringing your vision to life, we promise a wedding experience as unique and beautiful as your love story.

SPECIAL FEATURES — Experience the perfect blend of modern and industrial, where aweinspiring sunsets on Lake Lanier await you.

AT A GLANCE

# OF EVENT SPACES: 1 MAXIMUM SEATED CAPACITY: 200

VENUE STYLE: Indoor and Outdoor Event Space, Industrial/Loft, Unique/Alternative, Waterfront

CATERING CHOICES: All Catering Welcome

RENTAL INCLUDES: Tables, Chiavari Chairs

PARKING OPTIONS: Complimentary On-Site Parking

BUILD YOUR VENDOR TEAM

A wedding is never a one-person show. Hiring a cohesive and reputable team of wedding vendors is a crucial part of hosting a beautiful and thoughtful event. Read on for some vendor viewpoints, advice and tips. Remember, a thoughtfully chosen team is the special ingredient to making your wedding dreams come true.

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126 PLANNING

STYLED SHOOT SHOWCASES

116

FLORAL & DECOR

141

STATIONERY

158

ENTERTAINMENT

FOOD & DRINK

144

PHOTOGRAPHY

to ask your Questions PLANNER

• What tiers of planning do you offer, and what is included in each (e.g., full planning, month-of coordination, day-of coordination)?

• Do you also provide event design and styling?

• Do you plan events surrounding the wedding, such as the rehearsal dinner or day-after brunch?

• After we provide our budget, will you help us break down how it will be allocated?

• Do you have a preferred vendor list for us to reference?

• Do we pay vendors directly, or do we pay them through you?

• Do you handle coordinating deliveries, rentals, setup times and other vendor logistics on the wedding day?

• Have you planned any weddings at our chosen venue?

• How often will we communicate, and what is your preferred method (phone, text, email or an online app)?

• How many meetings will we have together, and how involved would you like us to be?

• Will you create a detailed timeline and schedule for everyone involved on the wedding day?

• How many members of your team will be present on the wedding day?

Luxury Wedding Design With a Personal Touch

Bespoke Intimate Weddings Nationwide

Your wedding deserves more than just planning — it deserves a fête. At ChrisFête Events, we specialize in designing unforgettable weddings that reflect your story, your style, and your soul. Whether you’re dreaming of a garden ceremony in Atlanta, a chic rooftop celebration in Boston, or a coastal weekend in Miami — we’re here to bring your vision to life, flawlessly.

PERFECTLY

HOW A WEDDING PLANNER CAN MAKE YOUR BIG DAY A DREAMCOME-TRUE

FEATURED PHOTOS: PLANNER Charmly + Co

SHOOT HOST y’ALL Workshop PHOTOGRAPHY

Kelsey Justice Photography

Arranging all the place settings and making an extra one for your college roommate’s plusone (who wasn’t even on the guest list). Checking each bathroom stall to make sure there’s enough toilet paper. Verifying that the DJ has the right electrical hookups. Sewing a button onto the best man’s suit. Driving back to the hotel to fetch the correct pair of undergarments (definitely not the polka-dot ones).

Is this how you picture your wedding morning? If your answer is “heck no!” (and who could blame you?), it’s time to hire a wedding planner. From the dress to the decorations, the venue to the catering, there are so many moving pieces that need careful attention to ensure that your big day is everything you dreamed of. A professional planner handles the details — both big and small — leaving you free to relax and actually enjoy your special day.

planned

A WEDDING PLANNER IS THE MASTERMIND WHO MAKES THE MAGIC HAPPEN. “ ”

678.708.3682

YOU ’ VE GOT OPTIONS

There are several tiers of wedding planning services available, each offering a different level of involvement, support and financial obligation. From full-service planning to day-of coordination, you’ve got options!

Before hiring a wedding planner, determine how much you’re willing to allocate from your budget and how much help you really need. Typically, comprehensive wedding planning services take up between 10-20% of your total budget. Once you understand how much planning you can take on and how much you want to outsource, start looking for a wedding planner who offers the level of assistance you need.

RELAX

FINANCIAL AND CONTRACTUAL

One of the key perks of hiring a wedding planner is that they can help you manage stress and all the “what could go wrong?” worries. Planning a wedding is a significant ordeal, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. A planner will ease some of this pressure by handling all the details and particulars. They can also help you manage any unforeseen problems that may emerge, allowing you to focus on remembering the steps to your choreographed first dance. Weddings have a lot of moving pieces, which means some minor hiccups are inevitable. Many planners have already addressed a range of crises, most of which happen without the couple even knowing what occurred. From a wedding cake melting in the sun to the bridal gown’s zipper splitting moments before walking down the aisle, wedding planners are natural problem solvers ready to hop into action. They come equipped with sewing kits and super glue and are two steps ahead of any snafu. The time your wedding planner spends serving Liquid I.V. to the best man to prevent a drunken speech is worth every penny spent.

No matter how you slice it, weddings require a significant financial investment — even for small, backyard affairs. When it comes to budgeting, it can be tempting to skimp on hiring a wedding planner and allocate those funds elsewhere. However, not hiring a professional planner can actually end up costing you more in the long run. Their expertise and experience helps avoid expensive mistakes, like having to pay vendors overtime because you didn’t calculate the timeline properly or forking out for that unexpected rentals delivery fee.

A great planner can also help you negotiate better deals with vendors, making sure you get the best value. So, before deciding you don’t really need a planner, consider the savings and peace of mind they can bring to your big day.

TIME IS MONEY

Hiring a wedding planner will save you time — and time is money! Planning a wedding is an intricate juggling act, and it’s not easy to balance every detail while staying within your budget. A planner helps you manage it all with confidence, making sure nothing slips through the cracks.

They’ll also recommend vendors and

services that align with your vision and budget, sparing you the hours of research and vetting guesswork. With a planner on your team, you spend less time stressing over logistics and Google reviews and more time enjoying your engagement — the way it should be.

VISION MEETS REALITY

You may have been dreaming of your wedding day since long before you even found your partner. Maybe you have a Pinterest board with years’ worth of ideas, overflowing with inspiration. Or perhaps you don’t have any specific details in mind beyond a general vibe or feeling.

While it’s fun to live in wedding dreamland, bringing that vision to life is another story. One of the greatest benefits of a seasoned wedding planner is their ability to listen to your wishes — however detailed or vague they may be — and then turn those requests into something real. Wedding inspiration can turn into an untamed beast — how do you pick a color palette that evokes the emotions you haven’t found words for yet? How do you achieve Edward and Bella’s wisteria-drenched ceremony within your budget? A wedding planner has the know-how to take your feelings and turn them into a tangible and cohesive wedding.

A planning pro also knows the difference between dreams and reality. Your budget may not line up with a replica of Madeleine White Fedyk’s Santorini nuptials. But a creative planner can help massage your budget and offer creative solutions while keeping things realistic.

All that being said, don’t expect your wedding planner to save you money when it comes to negotiating contracts. While your planner may have a working relationship with a company that could involve special pricing, a discount should never be expected. These vendors set their prices where they are for a reason!

PERSONAL MEDIATOR

Although weddings are all about a celebration of love, they also have a way of stirring up unexpected tensions. Bringing together two families is inherently tricky, and once you add logistics, budgets, and strong opinions, things can get sticky fast. That’s where a wedding planner becomes an invaluable mediator.

If you’d rather not tell your future mother-in-law that the peach dahlias she keeps insisting on are not your vibe, your wedding planner can step in with tact and diplomacy. They navigate sensitive conversations, keep everyone on the same page and help resolve potential conflicts before they snowball — ensuring the focus stays on joy, not drama, as your day approaches.

PROS KNOW BEST

Hiring a wedding planner gives you instant access to their trusted network of contacts and resources. Planners collaborate daily with a wide range of vendors, from seamstresses and photographers to catering staff and

lighting technicians. They know who has the best reputations, who fits within your budget and who aligns perfectly with your vision.

Whether you’re dreaming up a distinctive theme or a specific aesthetic, your planner can pinpoint vendors who specialize in exactly that style — and have experience executing it. They’ll also keep you informed about fresh ideas and emerging trends, helping you tailor your celebration to what’s possible and truly fits your style. By tapping into a planner’s priceless relationships and expertise, you can navigate the vendor landscape with confidence.

THE DAY-OF DETAILS

Perhaps the greatest service a wedding planner provides is coordinating the actual wedding day. From keeping hair and makeup on schedule to cueing the wedding party down the aisle, a wedding planner knows how to make every moment flow seamlessly. Hiring a planner also lets your family actually enjoy the day instead of scrambling around on your behalf. Your maid-

of-honor deserves to enjoy the celebration just as much as you do! And you deserve that same peace of mind, which is why you can’t be the one managing reception setup while you’re busy exchanging vows.

Although a talented planner makes it look breezy and effortless, it takes a lot of time, effort and expertise to pull off a fairytale wedding. Even the most organized of couples may struggle to relax if they’re also trying to manage the day’s logistics. That’s why hiring a wedding planner should be one of your earliest priorities. As you build your budget, make sure you’ve carved out space for the level of support you need.

Even if you’ve attended your fair share of weddings, a professional wedding planner bring an unmatched depth of knowledge. Simply put, they know more than you! From venue selection to crafting the day-of timeline, a wedding planner is the mastermind who makes the magic happen. So, are you ready to cross off some tasks on your wedding to-do list and hire a wedding planner yet? ■

Aisle Be There For You

EXPLORING THE VARIOUS TIERS OF WEDDING PLANNING SERVICES

FEATURED PHOTOS:

PLANNER Bri Williams & Co

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Hannah Forsberg

Planning your wedding should be as exciting as saying “yes!” — not a source of stress. Luckily, wedding planning services come in all shapes and sizes, designed to fit any need and budget. Here’s a quick guide to the main options: full-service planner, partial-service planner, month-of coordinator, day-of coordinator and venue coordinator. Each tier offers a different level of support, so you can pick the one that makes your big day feel effortless.

FULL-SERVICE PLANNING

If you dream of a seamless, personalized wedding without lifting a finger, a fullservice wedding planner is your best friend. In short, a full-service wedding planner is the most comprehensive tier of planner. They’re your go-to for everything from brainstorming details to packing up after the last dance. This option is perfect for busy couples or those wanting a custom, top-notch wedding experience.

Responsible for:

• Planning: Overseeing every aspect of the wedding, from budgeting and timelines to contracts, vendor sourcing and overall logistics.

• Coordination: Communicating with all vendors and ensuring the entire team stays aligned from planning through to the big day.

• Design & Decor: Crafting a cohesive aesthetic, sourcing decor and, in some cases, creating floral designs.

• Day-of Management: Running the show so you can stay fully present. Any issues that pop up are handled quietly behind the scenes, allowing you and your partner to enjoy a stress-free celebration.

• Rehearsals & Events: Not always, but sometimes planning rehearsal dinners and additional wedding weekend events come with this planning package.

PARTIAL-SERVICE PLANNER

A partial-service planner is like a friendly guide who steps in exactly where you need them most. Their support is flexible and tailored, making this option ideal if you’ve already begun planning but need help in specific areas or feel stuck at certain steps. It’s also great for those wanting expert advice and hands-on assistance without committing to the full-service experience.

Responsible for:

• Customizable Planning: Offering support in the areas you need, and letting you hand off select tasks.

• Vendor Recommendations: Sharing trusted, vetted vendor suggestions without fully managing every detail.

• Design Assistance: Helping refine your aesthetic vision and offering guidance for how to bring it to life.

• Logistics Support: Assisting with key organizational elements such as timelines and budget tracking.

MONTH-OF COORDINATOR

A month-of coordinator steps in about a month before the wedding to tie up any loose ends and carry your plans across the finish line. This tier of service is perfect for couples who’ve done most of the planning but want help ensuring everything goes off without a hitch.

Responsible for:

• Preparation: Stepping in about four to six weeks before the wedding to finalize outstanding details.

• Vendor Coordination: Confirming logistics, communicating final information and building a polished day-of timeline.

• Day-of Management: Overseeing the wedding day from start to finish, ensuring everything runs according to the plan you’ve built.

DAY-OF COORDINATOR

For the couple who has handled all the planning but wants to fully relax on the big day, a day-of coordinator is a true lifesaver. They step in to make sure your vision is executed without you having to sweat the details. This option is also great for couples on a tighter budget who still want the comfort of professional support.

Responsible for:

• Pre-Preparation: Connecting with you a few times prior to understand your vision, review your plans and gather essential information.

• Vendor Coordination: Reconfirming details with vendors in the week leading up to the wedding.

• Day-of Management: Running the event on the big day, troubleshooting anything unexpected and keeping the timeline on track.

VENUE COORDINATOR

A venue coordinator is not a wedding planner — though many couples understandably confuse the two. Included as part of many venue packages, their role focuses solely on venue-specific details. They manage logistics tied to the space itself and ensure everything on-site is set up correctly and runs according to plan.

Responsible for:

• Venue Management: Overseeing all aspects directly related to the venue (staffing, load-in, electricity, etc.).

• Logistics: Ensuring the venue setup matches your agreed-upon layout and that policies are adhered to.

• Vendor Coordination: Coordinating with vendors, but solely regarding venue-specific operations.

• Day-of Support: Providing on-site assistance throughout the big day.

With these options in mind, you can choose the level of support that fits your needs, ensuring your wedding day unfolds exactly as you’ve envisioned. ■

event planning and floral design for discerning couples and brands who value warmth, beauty, and ease.

Actually

How to Get the Wedding You Want

[on a Realistic Budget]

WRITTEN BY Jennifer Yoder, Vows & Visions PHOTOGRAPHY BY The Taylors

If you’ve ever searched “wedding budget” online, you’ve probably seen some terrifying numbers. And yes, weddings can get expensive, especially when Pinterest dreams collide with real-world pricing. But here’s the good news: a beautiful, memorable wedding that reflects your style and values is absolutely possible at almost any price point.

The key is being realistic, creative and intentional. Whether your budget is $20,000, $50,000 or in the sixdigit arena, there are ways to be strategic with your dollars without sacrificing the experience you want. So let’s talk about how to actually get the wedding you want — all while sticking to a budget that works for you.

1 START WITH PRIORITIES, NOT PINTEREST

Before you even look at numbers, take a moment with your partner to talk about what matters most to you. Is it amazing food? A live band? Stunning photos? A cozy, intimate vibe? A huge party? When you’re clear on your top priorities, you can confidently allocate more budget to those areas, and also agree to spend less on things that aren’t as important to you.

Pro tip: With your partner, make “Must Have,” “Nice to Have” and “Not Important” lists. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

2 BE HONEST ABOUT YOUR BUDGET FROM THE BEGINNING

It’s easy to fall in love with a $12,000 venue or a $6,000 floral installation before you’ve looked at your full picture. Don’t let Instagram or other people’s weddings pressure you into overspending.

Here’s what to do instead: First set a total budget. Then break that total into percentages, like what portion of your total you want to spend on the venue, catering, photographer and so on. Once you’ve determined what you’re comfortable with, be upfront with vendors about that budget. Most will work with you if you’re clear from the start.

3 UNDERSTAND WHERE THE MONEY GOES

Speaking of breaking your total into percentages, here’s a quick look at where couples often spend the most:

• Venue & Catering: 40-50% of the total budget

• Photography/Videography: 10-15%

• Planning & Coordination: 10-15%

• Florals & Decor: 8-12%

• Attire, Entertainment, Stationery, Extras: The rest!

Knowing these general starting points helps you plan more effectively and avoid surprises. Do keep in mind that this is a fluid guide. If you’re set on splurging and allocating 30% of your budget to your dream wedding dress, go for it! Just be sure to adjust the other items accordingly.

4 CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME AND PLACE

The venue and date you choose have a major impact on your budget. In-demand Saturdays during peak season (spring and fall in Georgia) often come with premium prices. However, there are several alternatives you can consider to reduce costs. Weekday weddings offer major savings on both venue and vendor fees. Choosing off-season dates, such as those in the winter and late summer, can also provide significantly lower rates. Additionally, exploring nontraditional venues like parks, private homes or small boutique venues can help you stay within budget while still creating a memorable celebration.

5 SIMPLIFY WHERE IT MAKES SENSE

You don’t need ten different appetizers, signature drinks for every guest or a 12-piece band to have an incredible wedding. Choose what provides the most impact and simplify the rest. Luckily, there are several moneysaving swaps that guests won’t even notice. Opting for buffet or family-style meals instead of plated dinners can significantly reduce catering costs. You can also skip the favors entirely (most get left behind anyway!). Choosing digital RSVPs over printed reply cards is another easy way to cut expenses. And finally, limiting your guest list, even by just 10 to 20 people, can make a big difference.

6 DON’T DIY EVERYTHING

It might seem like DIYing your decor or florals is the budget-friendly choice, but it can quickly backfire. Materials

About the Author

add up fast, and the stress of doing everything yourself or putting your bridal party to work may not be worth the savings.

That said, DIY does make sense in certain areas. If you’re crafty, creating your own signage can be a great way to save money while adding a personal touch. Small individualized details, like the guestbook or escort cards, are manageable DIY projects that won’t overwhelm you.

But on the other hand, go ahead and hire a professional for anything that impacts your timeline or logistics. This includes florals, coordination, catering and music — elements that are too important to leave to chance or last-minute scrambling.

7HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER WHO UNDERSTANDS BUDGET STRATEGY

This might surprise you, but a great planner doesn’t just help with design and logistics, we actually help you save money. From recommending trusted vendors to guiding you away from costly mistakes, we’re here to make sure your budget goes further. Plus, a good planner will help you avoid those “surprise costs” that pop up when you’re planning alone.

Weddings are personal, and your budget should be, too. Whether you’re working with $25,000 or $105,000, the goal is to create a day that reflects your love, your story and your priorities.

With a little strategy and the right support, you can plan a wedding that’s joyful, intentional and 100% worth every penny. ■

As the founder of Vows & Visions, Jennifer Yoder is a wedding planner and a detail enthusiast dedicated to creating celebrations that feel authentic and unforgettable. With a heart for hospitality and an eye for design, she guides couples through every step of the planning process — from the first big decisions to the tiniest finishing touches. For Jennifer, it’s not just about planning a wedding; it’s about building relationships, telling stories and crafting days filled with meaning. When she’s not working with couples, you’ll find her catching up with friends at local coffee shops or exercising her heart for adventure by exploring new destinations.

Vows & Visions | vowsandvisionsweddings.com

HEMRANI & MCLANE

06/29/2024 AT THE FOUNDRY AT PURITAN MILLS

GO OFFLINE

Put your phone away! Everyone you want to talk to is hopefully at your wedding so no need to look at any screens.

ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES

Weddings are a lot, no matter the size. Try to remember that this may be the only time all of your favorite people will be in one room together and how special and rare that is. Something is bound to go wrong, but if you can roll with the punches and have your nearest and dearest close to you, you’re going to have a great day!

There is a light on the other side and there will be a time where you get your brain back, it won’t be all wedding planning all the time.

Newlyweds

Know Best

BESIDES YOUR VENDOR TEAM, WHO KNOWS ATLANTA WEDDINGS BETTER THAN COUPLES WHO’VE HAD THEIR OWN SOUTHEASTERN WEDDING? WE ASKED REAL NEWLYWEDS FEATURED IN ATLANTA STYLE WEDDINGS FOR THEIR BEST WEDDING ADVICE.

DANA & FRANK

06/08/2024 AT FOUR SEASONS ATLANTA

CURATE YOUR GUEST LIST

We wanted to spend one of the most meaningful days of our lives with the people who genuinely cared about our relationship and shared in our joy. When creating your guest list, make decisions that feel right for you. Don’t feel obligated to invite someone just because you went to college together, attended their wedding or they’re friends of your parents. Personally knowing every guest makes the celebration so much more special and intimate.

KAYLA & BRETT

04/14/2024 AT SERENBE

PLAN AHEAD

Start interviewing your wedding planner ASAP. Understand the Georgia timeline for peak vendors and have your wedding planner, venue, photographer and videographer all ideally booked 12 months out! I was doing the wedding planning myself and six months out, I realized I was way behind and needed help. My planner, Cait Madden with Drake Social, made wedding planning fun, organized and streamlined.

STAY TOGETHER

Try to stick together with your husband and let people come to you. If you try to float around to talk with people, you’ll end up exhausted by the end of the night and not have spent any time with your husband! We had events Thursday and Friday nights so we learned that quickly and were inseparable on our wedding night! ■

“We’ll figure it out as we go.” “We’re totally in sync!”

IWhy Every Engaged Couple Needs Premarital Counseling (Even If You Think

You’re Fine)

WRITTEN BY Dr. Kimberly Smiley, Atlanta Marriage Prep PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ashley White Photos

f that sounds like you, first — congratulations! It’s a great sign that you’re starting your relationship from a place of connection and peace. But here’s the truth: It’s not only struggling couples who benefit from premarital counseling. In fact, the strongest, happiest, most prepared couples are often the ones who actively choose to invest in their relationship before problems arise.

Think of it this way: If you were about to build a dream home, would you start pouring concrete without a blueprint just because the land looks solid? Of course not. Premarital counseling is your relationship blueprint and the intentional planning that ensures your love story is built to last through every high and every hard season.

Another metaphor I like to use with couples is this: Premarital counseling is to an engaged couple like personal training is to an elite athlete. You, the engaged couple, already have a foundation of skills. You got this far, right? Premarital counseling will fortify those strengths and build skills where there are opportunities to do so.

Here, I’m busting the biggest myths about counseling, explaining why “low-conflict” doesn’t mean “low-risk” and revealing what healthy, aligned couples gain from investing in premarital counseling before they say “I do.”

4 BIG MYTHS ABOUT PREMARITAL COUNSELING (AND WHY THEY’RE FLAT-OUT WRONG)

Let’s clear something up: Premarital counseling doesn’t mean your relationship is broken. In fact, many of the couples I work with say they’re in a great place, which is exactly why the work we do is so powerful. Let’s bust some of the most common myths I hear all the time.

Myth No.1: “Premarital counseling is only for couples with problems.”

Premarital counseling isn’t a last-ditch effort to save a relationship. It’s a proactive, growth-focused experience designed to set you up for long-term success. Think of it like preseason training for athletes. You’re already a good team. Counseling helps you become a great one.

Myth No.2: “We already know everything about each other.”

You probably do know a lot, but knowing your partner’s go-to takeout order and favorite show to binge is different from knowing how they process stress, how they want to raise kids or how they handle disappointment. Counseling opens up guided conversations you might not even know you need to have.

Myth No.3: “It’ll just be awkward or uncomfortable.”

Good counseling isn’t about judgment or finger-pointing — it’s about creating a safe space to grow together. And when it’s done well, it actually feels empowering, productive and even fun. Many couples leave sessions saying, “We didn’t know how much we needed that.”

Myth No.4: “We’ll figure it out as we go.”

This can be an OK strategy — until it’s not. I’ve seen couples who felt aligned at the start but found themselves in full-blown crisis a year or two into marriage. I always encourage couples to get their expectations out in the open now so they can work toward alignment before the wedding.

WHAT HEALTHY COUPLES GAIN FROM COUNSELING BEFORE MARRIAGE

When a relationship is going well, it can feel counterintuitive to bring in a third party. But counseling before marriage isn’t about fixing problems. It’s about building tools before you need them.

Healthy couples gain:

• Tools for good communication and conflict resolution

• Clarity on unspoken expectations

• Deeper emotional and physical connection

• A sense of teamwork and shared commitment

• Support to talk through the big stuff (before it becomes a roadblock)

Happy couples don’t avoid hard conversations. They just choose to have them earlier, and with support. Most couples wait until something feels off before seeking support. But by that point, you’re working to repair

damage instead of preventing it. You wouldn’t wait for your car to break down before you ever checked the engine. You take preventive steps — because it’s easier, cheaper and far less stressful than dealing with a crisis. Marriage is no different.

Some of the most heartbreaking situations I’ve seen come from couples who truly loved each other but simply weren’t prepared for the real-life stressors that followed the honeymoon period. Silent assumptions, mismatched expectations and a lack of tools can create distance fast. Waiting doesn’t make you stronger. It makes things harder. The sooner you invest in preparation, the stronger your foundation will be.

HOW PREMARITAL COUNSELING WORKS (AND WHAT TO EXPECT)

I often hear this from my premarital counseling couples: “We just want to make sure we’ve covered all the bases before taking the next big step into marriage.” I love to hear this! I have years of experience working with couples who are stuck in one crisis after another, plus years of studying the work of relationship experts like John Gottman, Janis Abrahms Spring and Emily Nagoski. So, to these couples I get to say, “I’ve got you covered!” I’ve done all the prep work for you and I know all the critical conversations you need to have while preparing for a life together. And, I’ll guide you through every conversation.

If you’ve never experienced it before, premarital counseling might feel a little mysterious. But it actually is built on guided conversations, skillbuilding and establishing a safe place

to go deeper and uncover values, assumptions and hopes the might have stayed hidden otherwise.

In my practice, I use a researchbacked, personalized approach that feels more like coaching than therapy. I like to think of premarital work as building templates: a template for conflict resolution; a template for providing support for your partner; a template for boundary issues, etc. We start with what’s already working and find opportunities to upgrade, expand and fine-tune.

THE EMPOWERING TRUTH

Premarital counseling isn’t about pointing out flaws — it’s about unlocking potential. It’s a way to say: “We love each other enough to prepare, be intentional and build something that lasts.”

The truth is, marriage is not a “set it and forget it” experience. It takes work and intentional effort. But premarital counseling teaches you how to do that work well, and helps you build habits that will protect your relationship for years to come. That’s not just smart. It’s empowering. ■

About the Author

Dr. Kimberly Smiley is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Atlanta. She developed Atlanta Marriage Prep, a modern relationship coaching program for engaged and newlywed couples. Known for her approachable, insight-driven style, Dr. Smiley helps couples build the confidence and communication skills to create a marriage that lasts. With more than 20 years of experience, she blends clinical expertise with real-world relationship wisdom to help couples go from “I do” to “we thrive.”

Atlanta Marriage Prep | atlantamarriageprep.com

Styled Shoot Showcase

Jekyll, Reimagined

Inspired by the quiet sophistication of Jekyll Island, this editorial by Fox & Quinn blends coastal minimalism with Southern tastes. Set at the Jekyll Island Club Resort, the shoot captures the island’s duality: windswept, untouched shoreline alongside the refined, European-inspired elegance of its historic estates. From wild and free horseback portraits along the water to sculptural tablescapes framed by sun-soaked arches, each scene reflects the intimacy of a wedding weekend shaped by nature and intentional design. In the cadence of coastal poetry, every frame reveals the island’s quiet romance, chipping away the division between the natural world and human touch.

...

We wanted to create a world where modern design and natural elements feel intertwined.

Jekyll Island provided the perfect canvas — its beaches offered movement and intimacy, while the estate’s architecture gave us structure and drama. This shoot is about quiet luxury, textural storytelling and the kind of romance that feels deeply rooted in place.

Vendor List

PHOTOGRAPHER: Tay Tesvich Photo

VIDEOGRAPHER: Hellen CO Films

VENUE: Jekyll Island Club Resort

PLANNING & DESIGN: Fox & Quinn

FLORAL: 89th & Autumn

GOWNS: a&bé x anna bé

HAIR & MAKEUP: The B Word Makeup Artist

STATIONERY: Ernest + Wordie

CAKE: Gingerspice Bakery

TABLETOP RENTALS: TableMade

RENTALS: Stile

BACKDROP: Togather Events Co.

CONTENT CREATOR: Ruzin Cunningham Photos

MODELS: Andrea Navarro, Rustin Yasavolian

To see more photos from this Styled Shoot Showcase, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/style-profile.

Styled Shoot Showcase Southern Charm

Step into a story of Southern charm, rewritten through a contemporary lens at Hills & Dales Estate. While English Spode dinnerware, toile-draped tables and artisanal tapers grounded the shoot’s palette in tradition, the colors told a more daring story. Bright pink orchids brushed against coppery fall foliage, creating jolts of modernity along the storied terraces. The bride moved through it all in an embellished gown that sparkled beneath natural canopies, lending a touch of poetic juxtaposition. Rather than recreate the past, this shoot let the old and new converse, resulting in a setting that read like classic literature brought to life.

From the golden leaves, to the soft pink florals, the estate seemed to glow with an effortless elegance that perfectly complemented the vintage-inspired vision of the shoot.

KIMBERLY VARGAS OWNER, KIM VARGAS PRODUCTIONS

Vendor List

PHOTOGRAPHER: Kim Vargas Productions

VENUE: Hills & Dales Estate

PLANNER: Godfreys Weddings

FLORAL: Rhapsody in Blooms

GOWN: Rawan Asad Couture

FORMALWEAR: Miguel Wilson Collection

HAIR & MAKEUP: Caitlin Rose Creative Artistry

STATIONERY: Jenny Lemoine Design

CAKE: Cake Envy

TABLETOP RENTALS: TableMade

RENTALS: Quest Events

LINENS: I Do Linens

TAPER CANDLES: La Catres

MODELS: AJ Snider and Lawrence Ajogbor with The Salt Agency

To see more photos from this Styled Shoot Showcase, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/style-profile.

Styled Shoot Showcase

Amore Al Fresco

With calligraphy penned on lemon leaves and glowing bistro lights overhead, a hint of the Tuscan countryside found its way to Atlanta’s westside.

Hosted by Dawn & York, this styled shoot married old-world charm with industrial elegance. Inside Summerour Studio, Flowers by Yona created an organic, crawling backdrop for a ceremony straight from sun-baked Chianti. Outside, an edited mix of linens dressed flowing caterpillar tables, while wicker lamps, cantaloupe slices and whimsical flowers completed the scene. With citrus brights tempered by natural elements, it’s like every detail whispered: amore

From the Hosts ...

Inspired by the Italian charm of Summerour Studio, this Dawn & York luxury editorial intensive brings curated design, vibrant details and meaningful collaboration into its Tuscan-inspired courtyard. Featuring climbing ivy, playful pattern mixes and warm summer tones, this shoot aims to evoke the easy, al fresco feel of an Italian villa celebration.

KATIE YORK AND TAYLOR DOEHRMAN FOUNDERS, DAWN & YORK

Vendor List

PHOTOGRAPHER: Hellen CO Photos

VIDEOGRAPHER: Hellen CO Films, Claudia Goodwin Films

VENUE: Summerour Studio

EDITORIAL HOSTS: Dawn & York

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTION & OVERSIGHT: Katie York

PLANNING & DESIGN: Taylor Dawn

FLORAL: Flowers by Yona

GOWN: Aisle & Veil

HAIR & MAKEUP: Miranda Ibrahimovic

STATIONERY: Lairsey Paper Co.

TABLETOP RENTALS: Jade & Juniper Event Design

RENTALS: Party Bound

LINENS: Stradley Davidson

STYLING SURFACES & BACKDROP: Chasing Stone

MODELS: Danielle Obasih, Chikwe Obasih

To see more photos from this Styled Shoot Showcase, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/style-profile.

to ask your Questions FLORIST

• How would you describe your design style?

• Can you recommend seasonal flowers based on the time of year, our color palette and budget?

• Do you provide mock-up designs for centerpieces, bouquets and other arrangements? If so, what is the charge?

• Do you have a minimum floral budget? If so, what is it?

• What recommendations can you offer to help us maximize our budget?

• What is your cost structure for delivery and setup?

• Do you provide rental items like vases, trellises, votives or aisle runners, or will we need to source these elsewhere?

• How far in advance do you create the bouquets and arrangements? How are they stored until the wedding?

• Do you know or regularly work with our venue or other vendors?

• Are you able to collaborate with our cake designer if we want to incorporate flowers into our wedding cake?

• Do you book other weddings on the same date as ours?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR BIG DAY’S

BLOOMS

Florals have a way of transforming a wedding from lovely to downright jaw-dropping. Whether they’re framing your walk down the aisle or accenting the tablescapes guests admire over dinner, florals bring texture and emotion into every corner of your celebration. It’s safe to say they do some serious heavy lifting when it comes to setting the tone. So, when flowers are one of the most photographed parts of your day, where do you even begin?

If your only floral experience involves grabbing a plasticwrapped bouquet at the entrance of Trader Joe’s or sending sympathy arrangements, you’re not alone. Planning wedding flowers is an entirely different game, but with a little prep and the right florist, you’ll soon be dreaming in dahlias and hydrangeas. Let’s break it down step by step.

START WITH STYLE

Begin with inspiration — lots of it. Magazines, Pinterest and Instagram are your friends here, but scroll mindfully. Sometimes inspiration images are of silk florals, digitally enhanced or even completely created by AI, so keep that in mind (looking at you, gravity-defying installations). Focus less on replicating exact arrangements and more on gathering an overall vibe. Lush and romantic? Clean and modern? Wild and organic? Complementary colors or analogous colors? Monochrome or a rainbow of hues? Consider searching for inspiration photos as your “thought gathering” process.

Once you’ve started curating images that speak to you, you’ll start to see common threads in what you’re drawn to. We’re talking color palettes, shapes, even flower types. If you’re stuck, your floral designer will absolutely be able to spot the patterns and offer their professional opinion.

Don’t forget to seek inspiration offline, too. Think about recent weddings you’ve attended, a friend’s bouquet you couldn’t stop staring at or a storefront floral display you’ve been smitten with. Just make sure you have some photos or a strong way with words so you can communicate these details to your florist.

Pro tip: Search for images of real weddings at your venue. Even if the exact flowers or aesthetics aren’t your thing, it’s helpful to see what kinds of floral arrangements look natural in that space. And what is logistically possible!

TALK BUDGET

Once the floral daydreaming is underway, it’s time for the part no one loves to talk about, but absolutely should: budget. A good starting point is to plan to spend around 10% of your total wedding budget on florals. But that number isn’t set in stone. Some couples want a bouquet and some bud vases. Others want full floral moments, covering every square inch. The scope of your vision will shape what you’ll spend. And even within the scale of flowers, you also should

consider the types of flowers you want. Some flowers are economical, while others come at a premium price point. Filling your venue with clouds of baby’s breath will have a very different price point than having meadows of imported king proteas. If you have must-have flowers — like peonies in August or anemones in July — just know that sourcing out-of-season blooms can spike the cost. Staying flexible with the types of flowers (and letting your designer work their magic) can go a long way in staying on budget without sacrificing style.

Note: Dates around Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day often bring price hikes

due to floral demand. Planning around that can help stretch your dollar further.

FIND THE RIGHT FLORAL DESIGNER

Once you have a vision and a working budget, it’s time to find your floral soulmate.

Referrals are gold and a great place to start. Of course, check reviews online (we all know online reviews can be misleading at times, so take them with a grain of salt), but also ask recently married friends who they hired and loved. Your venue and planner are also great resources, especially since they know who’s professional, punctual and consistently delivers.

Social media can also be a great scouting tool. Search local hashtags like #atlantaweddingflorist, then deep dive into portfolios, websites and tagged photos. Look beyond the grids and ask: Does their style align with mine? If everything one florist does is whimsical and boho but you want a clean classic look, they probably aren’t for you. Yes a talented florist can create any style, but when it comes to your wedding, you want a vendor you can feel confident in. You want someone who gets your aesthetic, respects your budget, clearly communicates their process and pitches their own on-point ideas. Bonus points if you genuinely enjoy talking to them. It’s a relationship, after all.

THE TIMELINE: WHEN TO BOOK YOUR FLORIST

Like all good things in wedding planning, the earlier you book your florist, the better. Floral designers, — especially those who specialize in weddings — often book out up to a year in advance, particularly during peak wedding seasons. You’ve already done the research of who you think your perfect florist match might be, it would be heartbreaking to find they aren’t available on your date!

A good rule of thumb? Aim to book your florist about nine to 12 months before your wedding. If you’re planning a shorter engagement or a celebration during a popular month, reach out even sooner.

That said, don’t stress if you don’t have every last detail figured out yet. You don’t need to know your exact guest count or what your ceremony arch will look like. What you do need is a clear idea of your venue, your general style and your floral budget. From there, your designer can help you develop the vision and refine it as your wedding day approaches.

A lot of florists will start with an initial consultation and mood board, then revisit the plan with you two to three months before your wedding to

finalize counts, colors and designs. So while you want to secure your spot early, know that there’s room to evolve.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Once you’re ready to meet with a potential floral designer, come prepared. Here’s the basic information they’ll likely ask for:

• Wedding date and venue(s)

• Estimated floral budget

• Ceremony setup and location

• Reception table shapes and layout (ex: farmtable, square, round, etc.)

• Estimated guest count

• Wedding party size

• Style, colors and inspiration photos

While in conversation, don’t be afraid to ask the important questions: Are they licensed and insured? How long have they been in business? What happens if they’re unavailable the day-of due to illness or an emergency? How many other people are on their team? What’s their cancellation policy?

If the chemistry and vision are right, they’ll send a proposal outlining what’s included — often including inspiration images and/or a moodboard, flower list, color palette and logistical details (like delivery and setup requirements). Read this proposal carefully and then read it again. Don’t be afraid to ask for edits if needed! Once you’re aligned, expect to sign a contract and pay a retainer to lock in your date.

AFTER THE WEDDING

You’ve spent so much time selecting the perfect blooms for your big day, but what happens when the music fades and the venue strikes? Lucky for you, there are so many thoughtful and sustainable ways to extend the life of your flowers well beyond your wedding day itself.

1. Repurpose or Donate

Start by checking in with your florist or designer to see if repurposing or donating your florals is a viable option. It’s not always as simple as dropping off arrangements since redistributing flowers takes coordination and manpower. But if your florist is on board, consider reaching out to a local

hospital, hospice, senior living facility or shelter to donate your blooms to. Just make sure to arrange this in advance, since pickups typically need to happen within 24 hours of your event. It’s a beautiful way to share the joy of your day — and brighten someone else’s. Hosting a brunch, farewell lunch or post-wedding get-together? Your florals can absolutely pull double duty. Ask your planner or florist about repurposing centerpieces or ceremony arrangements to bring some of that wedding day magic to the next celebration.

2. Preserve

If you want to hold onto a piece of your bouquet forever (without resorting to hanging it upside down in a closet and hoping for the best), floral preservation artists can transform your wedding flowers into lasting keepsakes. From framed art to resin blocks and even jewelry, there are so many creative ways to preserve your blooms.

If this idea speaks to you, reach out to a preservation artist well before your wedding. They’ll walk you through how to package, store or hand off your flowers quickly to maintain their full beauty. Some even offer day-of pickups if they’re local to your area.

3. Use as Favors

What better way to thank your guests than by letting them take a little piece of the celebration home? Your florists or planner can set up a floral takeaway station near the reception exit, or simply invite guests to pluck blooms from centerpieces at the end of the night. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to spread the joy and ensure those beautiful arrangements don’t go to waste.

Flowers aren’t just a visual treat, they’re the design thread that ties your whole day together. Not to mention, they’ll be present in almost every photo you take!

But you don’t have to be a flower expert to end up with beautiful results. With a little inspiration, informed budgeting and the right florist, you’ll be well on your way to fragrant, floral magic for the ages. ■

PREMIER FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGN

full-service design | florals | décor | lighting | linens | draping

eventscapesatlanta.com | eventscapesatl

The Floral & Decor Edit

DESIGN TRENDS WORTH OBSESSING OVER

DISCO FEVER

A glimmer of mirrored light instantly shifts the mood. Whether scattered through the reception, hanging from the ceiling or spotlighted at the sweetheart table, disco balls give a wink to retro charm and guarantee a groovy good time — all while adding a special dose

Bouquets are getting an upgrade: Introducing the floral handbag. Arrangements fashioned as petite purses bring a dash of runway energy to the aisle. They’re stylish, unexpected and — since they’re easy to carry — you can hold onto yours all night long.

Timeless and sculptural, calla lilies are making a major comeback. Perfect for couples drawn to quiet luxury, these sleek, trumpetshaped blooms offer sophisticated simplicity, but with an it-girl energy.

SERPENTINE TABLES

Break the mold of traditional grid-like reception layouts with sinuous, curving tables. This setup invites guests to mingle along the flowing path and creates a unique visual flow throughout the space.

DRAMATIC DRAPING

Fabric becomes architecture with full, sweeping drape work. Whether airy and light or rich and luxurious, the effect of drapery sets the stage for romance with a flourish.

FRUIT

Vibrant, fragrant and beautifully textural, fruit earns its place among the florals. With citrus garlands or bowls of grapes anchoring a table, fruit is an easy way to infuse color and a touch of sensory delight. ■

artistry for those who believe beauty should be felt as deeply as it’s

678-628-2736 | info@roseandsageflorals.com roseandsageflorals.com | roseandsagedecor

to ask your Questions CAKE ARTIST

• What are the details of the cake tasting process?

• What fillings and flavors do you offer? Can we request a special flavor?

• Do you offer cakes/desserts abiding by dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, Kosher, etc.?

• What is your average cost per slice? Do you have a minimum order size?

• What size do you recommend our cake be based on our guest list?

• Do you provide the cake stand?

• In addition to a main cake, do you also offer additional desserts, like cupcakes, macarons, truffles, etc.?

• What is your process for delivering and setting up the cake?

• Will you provide instructions for cutting and serving the cake?

• What happens if something is damaged on the cake in transit?

• How long can the cake be displayed at room temperature?

• Can you work with our florist to utilize fresh flowers? Do you offer sugar flowers? Or both?

• How can I maximize my budget? Are multiple, smaller cakes more costeffective than one large cake?

Not All Wedding Flowers Are Safe: A Wedding Cake Flower Safety Guide

WRITTEN BY Shannon Turner, Shannon Turner Cakes

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY Tags Photography

It’s 11 p.m. and you’re scrolling through Pinterest, building your dream wedding board. You’ve found it: the perfect cake adorned with blush peonies, garden roses straight out of a Cotswolds cottage garden and delicate lily of the valley cascading down three tiers. The vision is stunning. You can already see it at your reception! But here’s what most couples scrolling at night don’t know: lily of the valley is genuinely dangerous. Not just mild stomach-ache dangerous; we’re talking cardiac glycosides that can affect heart function. And it’s far from the only gorgeous wedding flower that should never come into contact with a cake.

The stakes aren’t small. Guest safety is paramount, and the last thing anyone wants is a medical emergency at their reception (though serious reactions are uncommon with proper handling and the right precautions). The good news is that fresh flowers can absolutely be used safely on wedding cakes when you work with knowledgeable professionals and understand the basics yourself.

THE PROBLEM WITH PINTEREST-PERFECT FLOWERS

Most people assume that if a flower is beautiful and common in wedding photos, it

must be safe for cakes. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Toxic compounds can leach into frosting through direct contact, especially as a cake sits at room temperature for hours. Moisture from flowers transfers toxins. Pollen drifts onto frosting. The severity depends on the specific flower, amount of contact and individual sensitivity, but the risk is real enough to take seriously.

Another misconception is that “edible” means “safe.” When it comes to flowers, “edible” often just means “safe to eat if properly grown and prepared.” It doesn’t account for pesticides, how flowers were stored or whether they came into contact with non-edible varieties.

For starters, the following flowers are genuinely dangerous and should never come in contact with your cake: Lily of the valley, oleander, foxglove, wisteria, daffodils, calla lilies and many true lilies. On the other hand, these beauties can safely adorn your cake when handled properly: Roses, chamomile, lavender, sunflowers, lisianthus and culinary herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary).

Then there are the in-between blooms — hydrangeas, peonies, and baby’s breath — where safety information conflicts. When expert guidance isn’t consistent, it’s best to avoid them altogether.

UNDERSTANDING

FLOWER SAFETY

Professional cake artists evaluate flower safety using two critical factors:

• Botanical Toxicity: Is the plant itself poisonous? Some flowers contain compounds that are dangerous, like cardiac glycosides that affect heart function. Others cause mild reactions, such as mouth tingling or skin irritation. Your cake designer needs to know which flowers fall into which category.

• Chemical Treatments: What’s been sprayed on the flower? Most flowers from florists have been treated with pesticides and fungicides. That’s standard industry practice for keeping flowers fresh and pest-free during transport and storage. But these chemicals aren’t meant for

food contact, which is why proper barrier methods matter for every flower on your cake, not just the obviously toxic ones.

Your cake designer should create complete physical barriers preventing stems, sap and moisture from contacting your cake. The goal isn’t finding pesticide-free flowers for every wedding (though if available, wonderful!). The goal is to ensure botanically safe flowers are handled safely despite commercial treatment.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

Don’t be shy about asking direct questions. Your vendors should have confident answers to these:

Ask Your Cake Designer:

• How do you ensure flower safety on cakes?

• How do you prevent flowers from touching the cake?

• Will you coordinate directly with my florist about flower varieties?

• What happens if I request a flower that isn’t safe?

Ask Your Florist:

• Which flowers in my floral plan are non-toxic and safe for my cake?

• Can you provide the botanical names for flowers going on the cake?

• Will you be coordinating with my cake designer about timing and varieties?

Important: For utmost safety, your cake designer should be the only person placing flowers on your cake. A knowledgeable cake designer will take full responsibility for flower safety by coordinating with your florist about which flowers they need and how to implement proper barrier methods. This protects everyone’s liability while also ensuring your guests’ safety.

WHEN YOU’RE UNSURE ABOUT A SPECIFIC FLOWER

If you’ve fallen in love with a particular flower and aren’t sure if it’s safe, ask your cake designer. As the pro, they should be researching both common and botanical names in toxicology

databases, poison control listings and university resources. If they find conflicting information or can’t confirm safety, they should treat it as unsafe and suggest gorgeous alternatives.

THE SAFEST SLICE

Fresh flowers on wedding cakes aren’t going away, and they don’t need to. With professionals who know which flowers are safe, use proper barrier methods and coordinate effectively, you can have the floral-laden cake you’ve been dreaming about.

Great cake designers will guide

About the Author

you toward safe choices, offer sugarflower substitutes for toxic varieties or suggest safe look-alike varieties. For best results, start these conversations during your initial cake consultation, not a week before your wedding!

A wedding cake can be both beautiful and safe. When your cake designer treats flower safety as a standard practice, your florist selects specific, approved varieties and everyone involved aligns on proper handling, that’s when you get the showstopping cake you envisioned without any of the risk. ■

Shannon Turner is an award-winning wedding cake artist based in Woodstock, Georgia and serving couples throughout Metro Atlanta. Specializing in custom designs that balance beauty with food safety, Shannon has become a trusted authority on flower safety protocols in the wedding industry. When she’s not creating cakes, Shannon shares more industry insights on her blog, The Sweet Edit.

Shannon Turner Cakes | shannonturnercakes.com

The Cake Edit

SWEET TRENDS SERVED FRESH

FOR THE LOVE OF LAMBETH

Opulent and joyful, the ornate piping of yesteryear has reemerged with Lambeth cakes. Using royal icing rather than soft buttercream, these designs feature more-is-more layers of scrolls, swags and ruffles. For couples seeking a maximalist confectionary sculpture with nostalgic sense of whimsy, this style is “the one.”

TIRAMISU

This café classic is stepping out of the dessert case and into the wedding reception. Tiramisu’s layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream and cocoa makes it the ultimate pick-me-up dessert. Whether plated as a traditional slice or served in a tower of coupes, your guests will appreciate the coffee boost as they hit the dance floor.

THE MORE THE MERRIER

Can’t settle on just one flavor? Skip the singular showpiece and offer a collection of smaller cakes instead. This approach lets you say yes to multiple flavors and styles while also accommodating guests with dietary needs, like being gluten-free, nut-free or vegan.

THAT’S AMORE

For a dessert that’s as entertaining as it is light and sweet, a millefoglie Italian wedding cake is that girl. Made from crisp layers of puff pastry, silky pastry cream and topped with fresh berries and powdered sugar, this classic is often assembled on-site — turning dessert into performance art.

NOSTALGIC CAKE TOPPERS

Vintage cake toppers transcend eras — providing that sweet, old-school touch. Be sentimental and borrow your parents’ topper, or go the sustainable route and source a vintage one from your favorite antique store.

If you want a “fun” cake alongside your traditional cake, showcase some personality with a trompe l’oeil partner’s cake. Sculpted to resemble real objects, these illusion cakes have guests asking, “Is it cake?” before your knife reveals the tasty truth.

to ask your Questions CATERER

• Do you specialize in certain types of cuisine?

• Are the menus fixed, or can we collaborate to create a custom menu?

• Do you offer menu tastings, and if so, what is the cost?

• Do you cater to special dietary requirements? How do you handle food allergies or severe restrictions?

• What is the cost per person, and what is included in that price?

• Is there a food and beverage minimum? If so, what is it?

• What are the standard alcohol options, and what are the costs for upgrades?

• How late will the bar be open? Is there an additional charge for extending bar service?

• Are there any additional fees for bar staff, corkage or serving specialty drinks?

• What services do you provide on the wedding day (e.g., setup, cleanup, serving)?

• Do we need to supply our own plates, flatware and glassware, or are those included?

• What is your policy on leftovers?

• Have you catered an event at our venue before?

LowCountry is a woman-owned, Atlanta-based catering company with Carolina roots, bringing 40 years of culinary expertise to weddings that feel effortlessly elevated. With polished service, thoughtful menus and warm hospitality, we create experiences that are joyful, memorable and unmistakably yours.

Give my compliments TO THE CHEF

Behind every unforgettable wedding meal is a chef who brings vision to the plate. And the right chef can turn your wedding dinner into something guests talk about for years! Read on to meet the culinary talents transforming Atlanta weddings — and discover the signature dishes they’re serving up.

Jenn Moniz

Executive Chef, LowCountry Catering

A proud member of Les Dames d’Escoffier, Executive Chef Jenn Moniz brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to a thoughtful, elevated approach to off-premise dining. Portuguese by heritage and raised in Fall River, Massachusetts, her cuisine is shaped by Latin influences and classical French training at Le Cordon Bleu. After moving to Atlanta in 2013, Jenn honed her craft with respected industry leaders, including Bold Catering and Proof of the Pudding, before joining LowCountry Catering. Known for elevating clean, simple ingredients, she approaches every event with precision, passion and deep respect for life’s most meaningful celebrations.

Dish: Pan seared halibut, forbidden rice risotto, roasted sunburst squash, truffle corn milk, corn husk ash oil and micro seagrass.

Hong Vu

Head Chef, Ruby Chow’s

Born to Chinese-Vietnamese immigrant parents, Hong Vu grew up with three siblings and a hardworking father who cared for the children and cooked the same simple meals every day: steamed rice, eggs and cabbage. Craving variety and driven by love for her family, she began experimenting in the kitchen at a young age, sparking her passion for Asianinspired cooking. Although she initially pursued biology and pre-med in college, her heart kept returning to food and hospitality. Her first restaurant job at Harry & Sons opened her eyes to diverse cuisines, and her career truly began to take off after her time at Miso Izakaya, where she deepened her craft and found her footing in Atlanta’s culinary world. From Miso Izakaya to Le Fat, Ton Ton Ramen & Yakitori and Ruby Chow’s, Hong rose through every role and now serves as head chef of Ruby Chow’s.

Dish: Lucky char siu sea bass paired with a bold red glaze, representing the Chinese color of good fortune, love, joy and prosperity.

Chris Morrison

Executive Chef, The Ramspeck

At Decatur’s hottest new event space, The Ramspeck, Chris Morrison is the creative mind behind the plate. His food is a fusion of New American, Southern and French cuisine. With over 20 years of culinary experience and the achievement of High Honors at Le Cordon Bleu, Chef Chris has been recognized by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as one of the next rising chefs. As a proud member of Georgia Organics, Chef Chris is an advocate of giving back to his community through volunteer farming, using local products and working with students of the culinary arts. He was the former Special Events Chef at Whole Foods Market and Chef/Owner of Little Farmhouse Cafe. He now brings his innovation and expertise to private events at The Ramspeck, where he executes elevated menus exclusively for his clients and their guests.

Dish: Cast iron blackened filet served over short rib demi.

Mark

Alba

Executive Chef, Kimpton The Shane Hotel

Executive Chef Mark Alba oversees the culinary affairs at Kimpton The Shane Hotel, including banquets and dining outlets Hartley Kitchen & Bar and Aveline. Atlanta-born and Baton Rouge-raised, Alba discovered his love for cooking while helping his mother in the kitchen. Alba graduated from The Art Institute of Atlanta and honed his culinary skills at notable spots, including 5Church, STK Steakhouse, C. Ellet’s Steakhouse, The St. Regis Atlanta, Legendary Events and James Beard Award-winning restaurant Canoe. Obsessed with fine ingredients and the evolution of cooking techniques, Alba approaches each dish with curiosity, emphasizing local flavors and careful attention to every detail.

Dish: Chicken and dumplings, made of potato gnocchi, chanterelle mushrooms, black-eyed peas, lemon chicken velouté and cornbread croutons.

Rachel Ryals

Executive Chef, AFFAIRS to REMEMBER at Fox Theatre

With more than 20 years of experience, Rachel graduated cum laude from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Atlanta as a Certified Culinarian and Pastry Culinarian. Her training includes culinary tours in Italy, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg. She takes great pride in being a female Executive Chef, with a 13-year tenure with AFFAIRS to REMEMBER, one of the southeast’s largest privately held catering companies and the preferred caterer at the Fox Theatre. Rachel has a well-developed palate, and her favorite food innovations feature a fusion of flavors that deliver a sensory surprise. She loves using her southern roots as an inspiration when innovating and reframing traditional dishes, offered exclusively to clients who host their events at the Fox Theatre.

Dish: Whipped brie tart, topped with hibiscus roasted blueberries, tarragon and toasted pistachios.

Joseph Graffeo

Executive Chef, Signia by Hilton Atlanta

An industry veteran, Joseph Graffeo leads the culinary program at Signia by Hilton Atlanta as the executive chef. He oversees all daily operations for the eight food and beverage experiences at the hotel and serves as the primary creative strategist, operational leader and brand ambassador. Graffeo’s love for the kitchen began early, making pasta from scratch with his grandmother before stepping into his first professional role as a dishwasher at age 14. From there, he worked his way through the restaurant industry’s ranks. Before joining Signia by Hilton Atlanta, Graffeo held culinary positions at Marriott properties in Philadelphia, Phoenix, Dallas and the Marriott Marquis Houston, and most recently served as executive chef of Toca Madera Houston. A two-time graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, he enjoys pushing culinary boundaries, promoting diversity in the menus he creates and exploring the endless possibilities of gastronomy. When not in the kitchen, Graffeo enjoys hiking, woodworking, metalworking, traveling, dining in new restaurants and spending time with his dog, Roscoe.

Dish: Spaghetti nero di seppia, featuring squid ink, clams, fried squid, Calabrian chili and brodetto.

Daniel Alicea

Executive Chef, The Whitley

Chef Daniel Alicea has spent the past two years elevating the culinary experience at The Whitley with his refined technique and creative approach. With 19 years of industry experience, he brings expertise from leading fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels and high-end steakhouses. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate, his career includes key roles at The Envoy, The Revere and Loews Hotels in Boston and Atlanta. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef at Le Méridien Atlanta, where he led one of the most financially efficient and innovative kitchens in the Davidson portfolio. His passion and precision continue to define luxury dining at The Whitley.

Dish: Pan-seared sea scallops set atop creamy hominy grits, finished with local corn succotash and a fragrant drizzle of house made chili oil.

FARE

PLAY

CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING DINING SERVICE

Let’s talk about one of the most important menu decisions you’ll make: how your dinner is served. You’ve likely dreamed up which sentimental dishes and tantalizing flavors you want to be featured at your wedding, but have you considered the service style? When you find your perfect caterer, their first question will probably be, “Are you thinking plated meals or buffet-style?” So you need to be prepared to answer with confidence!

Two of the most common catering options are plated dinners and buffetstyle service. And both options have their respective pros and cons! Since the choice you make will impact everything from your timeline to how your guests interact during dinner, it’s important to really consider your options here. Let’s explore both:

Buffet Served vs.

Encourages a relaxed and approachable atmosphere, ideal for couples who want their celebration to feel effortless, communal and inviting.

Naturally encourages mingling and interaction. The dynamic flow between serving stations fosters a lively and social environment ideal for outgoing crowds.

FORMALITY

Exudes elegance and structure, setting the tone for a polished and refined event. The perfect choice for black-tie celebrations at luxury venues.

SOCIALIZING

Costs can vary by menu and setup, but overall, a more budget-conscious choice.

COST

Adapts to both indoor and outdoor receptions, with the added benefit of keeping food warm longer. A practical choice for venues with varied setups.

Keeps things moving smoothly for a flexible dining timeline. Guests can enjoy their meals at their own pace, ensuring service feels effortless and accommodating.

VENUE

Offers an intimate experience, with guests savoring conversations at their assigned tables. An excellent way to create a more structured yet connected atmosphere.

TIME

Additional staff for service and preparation makes for a premium investment.

Thrives in controlled environments where timing and presentation can be planned. Perfect for venues with designated catering kitchens or preparation spaces.

Emphasizes the importance of timing, with courses served in a curated sequence. Ensures the meal becomes a central and memorable part of the evening. ■

Eat, Drink & Be Married

GRAB YOUR FORKS AND KNIVES — IT’S TIME TO TALK CATERING! WITH THESE EIGHT TRICKS OF THE TRADE IN MIND, YOU AND YOUR CATERER CAN CREATE A MEAL TO REMEMBER.

BY Raven Shutley Studios

1 DEFINE YOUR DINING VISION

Before diving into dishes and flavors, think about the overall dining experience you want your guests to enjoy. Do you picture a leisurely, multi-course dinner that feels like an intimate restaurant experience? Or do you imagine a relaxed, lively celebration where everyone grazes, mingles and hits the dance floor early?

Once you identify the mood and pacing you’re after, your caterer can

guide you toward menu structures, presentations and timing that bring that vision to life. Defining this early will make every decision that follows feel more intuitive.

2 UNDERSTAND YOUR CATERING OPTIONS

How does your venue handle catering? Some venues have in-house culinary teams, others work exclusively with a preferred list of caterers, and some are fully flexible and allow you to bring in

any licensed professional. Naturally, each setup comes with its own benefits and logistics.

In-house teams offer convenience and familiarity with the space. Preferred vendors streamline planning while still giving you a range of choices. Outside caterers provide the most customization but may have additional fees or specific requirements. Knowing your venue’s structure early helps you avoid surprises, narrow your search and explore menus that are truly feasible for your day.

3 SELECT SIGNIFICANT DISHES

Collaborate with your caterer to design a menu that feels personally significant. Think about the best meals you and your soon-to-be spouse cook together. Or consider what foods evoke happy memories — like where you went to dinner before the proposal or your go-to take-out option. With these reflections in mind, compile a list of dishes that taste delicious and have sentimental value. Communicate everything with your caterer and let them work their magic.

Note: Consider the preferences of your guests. You and your partner aren’t the only ones enjoying a meal at the reception! While you two may enjoy adventurous dishes, ensure some options also cater to less adventurous palates.

4 SHARE THE MEANING

You’ve spent the time conjuring up meaningful dish ideas, so don’t forget to share those stories with your guests! To do this, work with your stationer to add personalized notes on the menu cards. For example, you could mention that ravioli was the first dinner cooked together or that lobster bisque reminds you of memorable summer trips to Maine. Sharing these special moments from your relationship will help your guests feel more connected to the wedding.

5 CELEBRATE YOUR BACKGROUND

One of the most beautiful facets of marriage is its ability to unite people from different places and upbringings. Embrace the diversity of your backgrounds by incorporating culinary elements from each other’s cultures. Whether you’re dishing out Italian Jordan almonds, Puerto Rican alcapurrias or Jewish Challah, serving foods representing both your heritages can beautifully symbolize your union.

6 CONSIDER THE SEASON

Take into account the time of year when selecting your menu. Just like flowers, certain foods are best enjoyed in specific seasons. Serving strawberries in January, for example, can be costly and compromises their quality. Aligning your menu with the season ensures that the ingredients are at their freshest and most flavorful. This choice will benefit your budget, caterer and guests, providing a cohesive and delicious dining experience.

7 ACCOMMODATE ALLERGIES AND FOOD RESTRICTIONS

To ensure all your guests feel safe and welcome, communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies to your caterer. Consider including a section on your RSVP form where guests can indicate their entree choices and note any specific dietary needs. For guests with severe allergies, you can offer them direct communication with the caterer so they can address concerns and safety. Most caterers are more than willing to accommodate dietary restrictions and provide safe and delicious meals for all. Trust us, this attention to detail will make a huge difference to guests with specific requirements, allowing them to fully enjoy the feast.

8 ENJOY YOUR MEAL

Most couples get so overwhelmed by the excitement of their reception that they barely have time to eat. Remember to pause and enjoy the food you dedicated so much time and effort into selecting. Also, remember that food is fuel. How will you tear up the dance floor on an empty stomach? After quite the eventful day, take care of yourself; make the most of your delicious dinner and eat up!

Planning a menu for a large group of people can feel daunting. After all, when was the last time you designed a luxury meal for over 100 guests? But here’s the secret: trust your caterers. Feeding crowds is what they do best, so once you communicate your vision, it’s OK to let your caterer take the reins and work their magic. Yes, relinquishing control can feel scary, but just imagine a room full of your favorite people savoring every bite of a fantastic meal. That’s the payoff, and it’s absolutely worth it. ■

PHOTOGRAPHY Raven Shutley Studios

VENUE & CATERING The Ramspeck

FLORAL Adaptation Floral Design

GOWN Kelly’s Closet

JEWELRY Worthmore Jewelers, Decatur

HAIR & MAKEUP Jade Jamrozy Beauty

TABLETOP RENTALS The Vintage Dish Girl

MODELS Emily Kramer, Zen Kramer

to ask your Questions STATIONER

• Do you offer wholly customized designs, or will I choose from an existing catalog?

• Can you help with wording and etiquette, or do you focus solely on design?

• Do you specialize in any particular design styles, such as watercolor illustrations, monograms or modern minimalism?

• What printing techniques do you offer, such as digital printing, letterpress, foil stamping or engraving?

• Do you print in-house, or do you work with a third party?

• Can I see physical samples of your previous work to get a sense of quality and style?

• Do you offer calligraphy services or other hand-detailed options?

• Do you offer digital designs for wedding websites?

• Can you assist with assembly, envelope addressing or wax seal stamping?

• What is the typical timeline for your design and production process?

• How many revisions are included during the design process?

• Do you offer consultation on the full suite of stationery items, from savethe-dates to thank-you notes?

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED.

Yes, you’ve been knee-deep in wedding planning and dreaming since your engagement, but your guests’ first real glimpse into your wedding world? That comes with the invitations. Your stationery suite is the perfect opportunity to set the tone for your once-in-a-lifetime celebrations. And it can communicate so much more than just date, time, and location! A thoughtfully crafted wedding invitation does double duty: it covers the practical details — logistics, dress code, timing — while also giving guests a feel for the vibe.

In a world dominated by text conversations and Instagram DMs, a formal invitation arriving in the mail feels like a rare little treat. But that rarity can also make the process feel intimidating. How do you address them properly? What wording should you use? Who gets included on each envelope? It’s easy to secondguess yourself.

While a skilled designer can nail stationery aesthetics, it’s up to you to determine what information to include and how to word it. To make it easier, here’s a quick guide on what information to include and how to say it with style.

WHAT TO INCLUDE ON THE INVITATION

HOST LINE

Start off the invitation with who is hosting the festivities. In the past, this opening line often referenced the bride’s parents, but nowadays we see weddings hosted by the couple themselves, both sets of parents, one set of parents or an omission of this line altogether. It isn’t necessary to include the names of all the

hosts, a simple “Together with their parents [...]” gets the message across.

2

THE REQUEST TO ATTEND

Not to be overlooked, be sure to ask for the pleasure of your guests’ company. It might seem obvious, but including an explicit invitation to attend lets guests know they are excitedly welcome to the celebrations. There are many ways to phrase this request, depending on formality and your personality. Here are some examples:

• “[NAME & NAME] request the honor of your presence [...]”

• “[NAME & NAME] invite you to celebrate with them [...]”

• “[NAME & NAME] would love for you to join [...]”

• “[NAME & NAME] invite the pleasure of your company [...]”

3

WHO’S GETTING MARRIED

If not already named in the host line, this is your time to loudly and clearly let your guests know who is getting married (you!). Often, this part of the invitation gets some special typographic treatment and is printed large and in a statement script or font. Formal invitations often include the full names of each partner — so get ready to show off your middle name!

4

DATE AND TIME

Depending on the formality of your event, you can write out the date and time in full, or you can use numerals. Whatever works best for you! Formality aside, the most important thing is to be clear and avoid confusion. Some fonts have numerals that are hard to read (we’re looking at you, “7s” that look like “1s”), so if you’re using figures be sure to select a font that has no room for misinterpretation.

In the past, writing out the year was optional, but as weddings are being planned more and more in advance, just include the year no matter what.

5 1

LOCATION

It is important for guests to know exactly where they are expected to be! Include the name of your venue

and its full address (street, city, state and zip code). Some venues with straightforward locations don’t require the address to be spelled out entirely, but no matter what you should include the city and state. This shows guests right off the bat where they should be making their travel plans.

6

RECEPTION DETAILS

Some invitation suites include a separate card for all the reception details, though this information can also be printed on the main invitation if space allows. If your reception is at the same venue as your ceremony, a simple, “reception to follow” will suffice. However, if you’re hosting the reception at a different location, clearly note its address and any relevant arrival information. This is when a separate reception card becomes especially useful.

7

DRESS CODE

When it comes to dress code, clarity is kindness. If you’re hosting a black-tie affair or a casual backyard celebration, spell it out clearly on your invitation so guests can shop for and curate their outfit with plenty of time. A simple line at the bottom of the invitation does the trick.

Dress Code Examples:

• Black Tie

• Formal or Black-Tie Optional

• Cocktail

• Semi-Formal

• Festive

• Snappy Casual

8

RSVP INSTRUCTIONS

Lastly, let your guests know how they can accept with pleasure or decline with regrets. Short for “Répondez, s’il vous plaît” (French for “please respond”), the RSVP is your way of tracking who’s coming. Traditionally, couples include a separate response card for guests to complete and mail back. However, many are now skipping the postage and tracking RSVPs through a wedding website or online platform instead. Whichever method you choose, make sure it’s crystal clear how guests should respond and by when. ■

to ask your Questions PHOTOGRAPHER

• How would you describe your photography style?

• Will you shoot solo or will you have a second shooter/assistant with you?

• What happens if our photographer is ill on the day of the wedding?

• What is included in your pricing tiers — albums, hours of coverage, pre-wedding events, engagement session, etc.?

• Do you offer a photo booth?

• Will we have the rights to the images? How and where can we use the images?

• Do you offer retouching services? How involved is your editing process?

• Can we request specific shots or do you have a standard shot list?

• How long after the wedding will our photos be ready?

• Can we see a few full galleries from some of your recent weddings?

• Have you shot a wedding or styled shoot at our selected venue before?

• Will you post our wedding on your website and social media? Can we decline that usage?

Alongside our signature documentary wedding photography style, we create timeless, editorial portraits of you — worthy of a magazine cover.

You deserve the best of both worlds.

Contact us today for your complimentary consultation.

@momoluxphoto

Based in Atlanta, GA and Frankfurt, Germany. Available worldwide for destination weddings.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Celine Leina Photo

Picture Perfect

Years from now, when your dress is packaged up in the back of your closet and the last slice of cake is a distant memory, you’ll return to one thing over and over: your wedding photos. They’re not just pretty pictures, they’re how you’ll relive the emotions, the details and the moments that made your day unforgettable. There are no do-overs, so choosing the right photographer matters immensely. Whether you’re just beginning your search or you’ve already booked your dream photographer, here’s what you need to know to ensure you get images you’ll treasure forever.

FINDING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER MATCH

Once you’ve decided photography is a priority (and it should be!), the next step is finding the right person for the job. Start by doing your homework: read reviews, browse portfolios and create a shortlist of photographers whose work you vibe with.

From there, meet with several contenders. “Choosing your photographer is like choosing a friend — you’re trusting them with some of the most emotional moments of your life, and you’ll always remember how they made you feel on your wedding day,” says Momo Tajik of Momo Lux Photo. With so many talented pros in the industry, narrowing your search based solely on beautiful images won’t get you far. Consider the experience of the day itself and who you want by your side through it all. “You’re going to spend almost your entire day with your wedding photographer, and if you don’t connect with them or feel comfortable around them, it’s going to show in the photos,” says Ashlee Carrozza of Ashlee C. Photography.

When interviewing photographers, always ask to see full wedding galleries, not just Instagram highlights. Anyone can cherry-pick a handful of hero shots, but you need to see how they capture the full story: cocktail-hour candids,

stationery details, those in-between moments. A complete gallery will reveal their level of consistency and how they handle real timelines, lighting and environments.

UNDERSTANDING PHOTOGRAPHY STYLES

As you start comparing photographers, you’ll notice each pro has a signature vibe. Just as handwriting varies from person to person, wedding photographers develop their own distinct aesthetics. Some love using flash and Dutch angles; others lean into sweeping landscapes and cinematic compositions. Whether you gravitate to dark and moody or light and airy, understanding which style speaks to you is one of the best ways to narrow your search.

Common styles and keywords to explore include fine art, editorial, photojournalistic or documentary, film, traditional, dark and moody, light and airy, cinematic and experimental.

As you browse portfolios, notice which images make you pause. Are you drawn to the interplay of light and shadow? Soft, romantic tones? Raw, unposed emotion? When you can articulate what pulls you in, you and your

photographer can establish a mutual vision based on aspects you like most. “There’s no right or wrong — just what feels true to your story,” Carrozza says.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION

Engagement sessions have become a cherished prelude to the wedding day. Yes, you’ll walk away with beautiful images for your save-the-dates, but the session is far more valuable than that. It’s your opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera — and with your photographer — before the big day arrives.

“It’s like a fun rehearsal before the big day,” Tajik says. “Don’t hesitate to ask your photographer to show you a few shots during the session — seeing how amazing you look will help you relax even more.”

Your photographer can help you decide the location, time of day and wardrobe for your engagement shoot, but don’t be afraid to infuse your own style. Will it be shot at your first date spot? Or will you be playfully strolling through your neighborhood farmer’s market hand-in-hand? Think of it as a little editorial that tells your story.

Above all, treat the session as intentional time with each other. The more relaxed and present you are, the more “wow” your images will be.

CREATING A THOUGHTFUL SHOT LIST AND TIMELINE

While seasoned photographers typically have their own shot lists, it’s still worth confirming the specifics you want documented. Did you create a specialty cocktail menu you want captured? Does your bouquet have family heirlooms woven in? Let your photographer know which important touches you’d like documented. They can’t capture what they don’t know exists!

Just as important is allowing enough time to actually capture everything well. Work with your photographer to build a realistic timeline for the day, and one with flexibility. “The ideal timeline has breathing room, and a lot of it,” says Carrozza. “You want space to enjoy the

ASHLEE C. PHOTOGRAPHY

moments instead of rushing through them. That usually means good natural light for portraits, enough time to move slowly and plan for troubleshooting, and built-in buffers!”

Consider factors like travel time between locations, how long family photos typically take (longer than you’d expect!) and when golden hour happens on your wedding date. Your photographer has done this before and can tell you how much time you’ll realistically need. “A rushed, stressful timeline will be reflected in the photos — trust me,” Carrozza adds.

TO FIRST LOOK OR NOT TO FIRST LOOK?

Another key decision you’ll make is whether to do a “first look” — which is a private pre-ceremony moment where you and your partner see each other for the first time. This modern alternative to waiting for the aisle has become increasingly popular.

A first look allows you to share an intimate, authentic reaction without an audience. It also gives you dedicated

time to connect, exchange letters or gifts and settle into the day before festivities begin. From a logistics standpoint, choosing a first look is super efficient. Because you’re forgoing the experience of seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony, you can knock out a lot of your couple and wedding party portraits. This means you won’t have to miss your cocktail hour and precious time with guests later!

Some couples prefer the traditional, heart-thumping anticipation of seeing each other down the aisle, and there’s an undeniable romance in that! Talk with your photographer about what fits your personalities, timeline and vision.

LEANING INTO YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER’S EXPERTISE

Your photographer has been around the wedding block. They know how to find flattering light, guide you through natural poses and balance candid moments with intentional direction. If they suggest something that feels a bit silly, try to trust the process. Those

seemingly silly prompts often lead to the most relaxed, joyful images.

Besides your engagement session, your wedding day might be the first time you’ve had to pose in front of a professional lens. Don’t let this intimidate you! Your photographer is there to support you, guide you and help you feel like the most confident version of yourself.

Your wedding day will fly by faster than you can imagine. It all blurs together in the most beautiful way, and that’s exactly why your photos matter so much. These snapshots are little time capsules that transport you back to how you felt in each moment. By choosing the right photographer, communicating your vision and trusting their expertise, you’re investing in lifelong memories. Your wedding deserves to be captured beautifully, and now you know exactly how to make that happen. ■

Coulter Captured

preserving the memories:

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS FOR DECADES

Picture this: you and your spouse are celebrating your 20th wedding anniversary. You’ve reached this iconic marriage milestone; maybe you even planned a special trip. As you reminisce about your wedding day, you decide to pull up your photos…and suddenly you’re rummaging through drawers searching for that old hard drive or long-forgotten thumb drive. Maybe you attempt to power up your 20-yearold iPhone. Or you dig through email archives trying to find the link to the online gallery your photographer once sent. Is cloud storage even still around? Do you still have the computer your photos were downloaded to? Feel that little rush of panic?

Take a breath.

Now imagine a different scenario. You and your spouse are

cozied up on the couch, flipping through your printed wedding album. Your faces light up with joy as each page brings back the feelings, the vows, the celebrations, the people. The memories are tangible, warm and effortless to access; no charger, password or tech rescue required. Lovely, isn’t it?

And here’s the confession: even as a wedding photographer, it took me three years to print my own wedding photos. I had the knowledge, the resources, the tools… yet the task still felt overwhelming. Why is that? Why is enjoying our wedding photos after the wedding such a challenge? And more importantly, what’s the best way to actually experience them for years to come?

Downloading your gallery is the obvious first step, but I want you to think bigger. Technology will continue to evolve, and no one wants to drag out an outdated laptop

or incompatible device just to relive their day. So how do you ensure your wedding photos remain accessible, beautiful and meaningful?

Here are my top three tips on how to enjoy your wedding photos long after the big day has passed.

1. INVEST IN A WEDDING ALBUM

Albums are my absolute favorite way to preserve wedding photographs. If you worked with a professional photographer, start by asking whether they offer albums. They already know your aesthetic, your story and your images; making them your most seamless resource for album creation. I personally include an album process for all my wedding couples because it extends the experience and removes the stress of figuring out design logistics on your own.

But if your photographer doesn’t offer printed products, don’t worry. You still have options.

• Option #1: Hire another photographer who offers album design. Just ensure your original photographer granted you print permissions. I recently designed a beautiful heirloom album for a couple whose photographer didn’t provide this service.

• Option #2: Go the DIY route. If you have an eye for design, you can create your own album through consumer-friendly companies like Nations Photo Lab or MPix. My biggest tip: select your favorite images before you begin designing. Aim for around 100 photographs; it’s a sweet spot for storytelling without feeling overwhelming.

Many couples get stuck here, unsure how to narrow down images or balance the layout. If you find yourself stalling, ask for help from a trusted friend or hire a professional designer. The key is simple: don’t quit halfway through. Your future self will thank you.

2. MAKE IT PERSONAL AND MEANINGFUL

Your album should reflect the style and sentiment of your wedding day. Was

your celebration modern and chic? Or full of rich details with an editorial touch? Let these elements guide your choices.

There are countless ways to personalize your album, for example:

• Incorporate handwritten vows in the endsheets

• Use a custom monogram that matches your invitation suite

• Leave space to attach invitations

• Select materials that connect to your story — linen, leather, velvet, embossed covers

For my own wedding album, my husband and I selected a distressed leather cover with our names embossed in a pretty calligraphy font that matched the font on our guestbook. Overall, the goal is to create something that feels timeless and true to who you are. And please … avoid printing your wedding photos through the same retailers who sell toothpaste. I won’t name names, but you get the idea. High-volume, bargain labs often produce prints that fade, yellow or warp over time. Your memories deserve better. When in doubt, print through your photographer first. If that’s not an option, trustworthy consumer-level companies with heirloom-quality products are a close second. Be cautious of companies offering constant, too-good-to-be-true discounts. Quality work rarely comes with a 70% off code.

3. BRING YOUR WEDDING PHOTOS INTO YOUR HOME

Many couples tell me they’ll wait to hang photos until they’re in their “forever home.” Or they don’t want to invest in artwork or prints until they’re done moving. But here’s my gentle encouragement: start with one photo. Start now.

Print a favorite and hang it in your current home. Framed artwork is wonderfully flexible; it can move with you from home to home and wall to wall. As your family grows and new seasons unfold, you can add more pieces and build your dream gallery wall over time.

quick tip

Go larger than you think. An 8x10 often looks tiny on a wall, which leads to disappointment. My bestselling size is a 24x30 framed print, because it works beautifully above most sofas, beds and entry consoles. Before ordering, try taping a piece of craft paper to your wall to visualize the size. You might be surprised at how much impact a larger piece of art creates.

In closing, your wedding photographs are one of the few tangible pieces that remain long after the vows, the cake and the florals. They tell the story of the day you committed your lives to each other. These photographs deserve to be preserved in a way that honors the memories. Technology will shift and trends will change, but printed photographs have a way of grounding us. Whether through an heirloom album, thoughtful artwork or small prints displayed throughout your home, investing in physical memories ensures that 20 years from now, you’re not searching for lost files; you’re simply turning a page. ■

About the Author

Audrey McCloud is a wedding and portrait photographer in Atlanta specializing in heirloom albums and printed artwork. With 15 years of experience, she not only photographs timeless, joyful and endearing, but she also helps couples preserve their stories beautifully and intentionally. After photographing hundreds of weddings over the years, she’s made it her priority to make sure you have the best experience possible. Not only do you deserve beautiful images, but you also deserve an amazing experience.

Audrey Grace Photo audreygracephoto.com

A Wedding Photographer’s Guide

TO PLANNING YOUR PERFECT TIMELINE

Creating your wedding day timeline sounds daunting — coordinating dozens of people, multiple locations and countless moving parts. But here’s what 18 years of wedding photography has taught me: A solid timeline isn’t about rigid perfection. It’s about having a framework that keeps your day flowing, even when hiccups happen.

TWO QUESTIONS THAT SHAPE EVERYTHING

Your timeline will look dramatically different depending on:

Locations: Are all activities at one venue or multiple? If moving between sites, map driving times and add buffer minutes for traffic and transitions.

First look: Will you see each other privately before the ceremony or wait for the aisle moment? This decision shapes your entire schedule and when formal portraits happen.

MAJOR COMPONENTS

FIRST: CEREMONY & RECEPTION

Break the day into four sections: ceremony, reception, formal portraits and getting-ready.

Ceremony

When mapping out your ceremony, consider its start time, duration (confirm with your officiant!) and what special moments you want captured (think readings, unity ceremonies, etc.)

I recommend reserving the 30 minutes before your ceremony for the couple and wedding party to tuck away and relax away from guests. Guests typically arrive a half-hour early, and if you’re visible, they’ll pull you into conversations that can delay the start time.

Reception

Map out these major reception highlights so nothing gets missed:

• Grand entrance

• First dance and parent dances

• Dinner and welcome speech

• Cake cutting and toasts

• Open dancing and special dances

• Bouquet and garter tosses

• Grand exit

FOOL-PROOF FORMAL PORTRAITS

I like to walk my couples through a family and wedding party portrait sheet where they fill in all the important individuals. I recommend they review suggested groupings, adding what matters to them and removing what doesn’t apply.

The secret to fast-moving family and bridal party formals is to get everyone’s names in advance and pre-plan combinations. If you are doing a first look, some of these photos are able to be done prior to the ceremony. Budget two minutes per family combination. Additionally, alert family members about this photo timeline beforehand so they don’t run off during cocktail hour and get missed in pictures.

Typical cocktail hour breakdown:

• 20-30 minutes: Family and VIPs

• 10-20 minutes: Full wedding party

• 20 minutes: Couple’s portraits

A benefit to doing a first look is that you can complete most or all formal portraits before the ceremony. This lets you enjoy cocktail hour with guests and ensures your hair and makeup look fresh in photos.

PLAN THE FIRST PART OF THE DAY LAST

When your ceremony and reception are planned out, all that’s left is deciding the getting-ready activities you want photographed. I generally recommend one to two hours of getting ready coverage for:

• Detail shots (rings, invitations, shoes)

• Hair and makeup application

• Candid moments

• Opening gifts or notes from your partner

• Getting dressed with help from someone special

WHERE TIMELINES FALL APART

During timeline walk throughs, I generally give my couples some heads

up scenarios where we see timelines fall apart. These include:

Hair and Makeup: Book a hair and make-up trial to know exactly how long each person needs in the chair and ensure services deliver what you envisioned.

Communication Gaps: Keep everyone informed at every stage. Bridesmaids and moms should know when to be ready for the bride’s dress reveal. Groomsmen need clear instructions on when and where to be dressed. Family members should know they’re needed for post-ceremony photos.

The Weather: For outdoor weddings, establish a 24-hour and a two- to fourhour weather decision point with your planner or venue. Delaying this call can push your timeline back by 30 to 60 minutes or more, creating a domino effect throughout your day.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Take time to plan, but stay flexible. In 18 years, I’ve never seen a wedding run exactly to plan, and that’s OK. A solid timeline details your important moments and gives your team the framework to deliver a great day, even when hiccups happen. ■

About the Author

Danielle “Dani” Brown has photographed weddings since 2007, bringing nearly two decades of experience to every celebration. Her background in graphic design — working with agencies, publications and small businesses since 1999 — gives her a unique eye for composition and how images will ultimately be displayed in albums, prints and keepsakes. When she’s not behind the camera, Danielle is at home in Woodstock, Georgia with her husband James and their three dogs.

Danielle Brown Photography daniellebrown.photography

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE OF YOUR WEDDING DAY

Creation WEDDING CONTENT

It’s the morning after your wedding. You’re curled up with your new spouse, probably still wearing yesterday’s smile, when your phone buzzes. Your wedding content creator has just delivered a gallery full of candid clips and behind-the-scenes snapshots. You start scrolling and suddenly you’re watching your partner’s first look with their mom, a moment you couldn’t possibly see in real time. There’s that spontaneous conga line you have zero memory of starting. There’s your grandmother tearing up during your vows. You’re reliving your wedding before you’ve even had your postwedding coffee.

This is the magic of wedding content creation. It’s a new kind of wedding vendor that’s changing how couples experience and share their big day, and it might be exactly what yours needs.

SO... WHAT EXACTLY IS A WEDDING CONTENT CREATOR?

Think of them as your personal moment hunter, armed with a smartphone and professional-grade gear, weaving through your wedding day capturing the stuff that actually happens. They’re documenting the stolen glances, the belly laughs and all those tiny, heartfelt details that evaporate if someone isn’t there to catch them. And for the social media lovers out there, content creators deliver everything verticalvideo-ready for Instagram, TikTok or wherever you want to shout your joy from the digital rooftops.

“While your photographer captures timeless portraits and your

videographer crafts a cinematic story, we as your content creator capture the real, unplanned, unposed moments and vibes of the day — all in your inbox within 24 hours,” explains Natasha Bolger, owner and lead content creator of Boarding Pass Content Co.

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT?

Every content creator operates a bit differently, but here’s the general vibe: You’ll typically get a one- to twominute highlight reel that captures the arc of your day, plus unedited video clips and photos delivered within 24 hours. You’ll also receive a handful of short, polished reels spotlighting specific moments and details.

Before the big day, expect a content planning call to go over your vision and vibe. Want guest interviews during the reception? Done. Prefer they focus on the natural flow without intervention?

Perfect. This is your day’s content, tailored to your style.

BUT WAIT — ISN’T THIS WHAT MY PHOTOGRAPHER AND VIDEOGRAPHER DO?

A wedding content creator doesn’t replace your traditional media pros. They complement them.

Your photographer crafts highresolution stills that’ll look stunning framed on your wall. Your videographer creates a cinematic narrative that’ll make you cry every anniversary. But your content creator works with lighter gear (often just smartphones with gimbals), capturing vertical video

and social media-ready edits that feel immediate and authentic. Together, these three professionals provide a well-rounded experience that fully encapsulates your special day. Some key differences:

• Speed: Content creators deliver highlights in 24 to 48 hours so you can post while the excitement is fresh. Traditional photographers and videographers might take weeks or months for complete deliverables.

• Freedom of movement: Content creators can float through your day more dynamically, nabbing guest-facing moments like quick interviews or fun reels. While your photographer is setting up the formal family portrait, your content creator is catching the flower girl twirling in her new, fancy dress.

• The vibe: “With smartphones everywhere, people are used to video and social content. This puts them at ease when they see me recording with a phone and the pressure to be in the ‘perfect shot’ dissolves and they can be their candid, goofy selves. Just as the couple intended,” says Bolger.

WHY HAS WEDDING CONTENT CREATION BECOME SO POPULAR?

The numbers tell the story: According to Think Splendid, one in six couples in 2024 hired a content creator for their wedding. But why the sudden boom? It comes down to how we experience and share life now. Today’s couples don’t just want their wedding memories, they want them now, preserved in a way that feels immediate and personal. Professional photo and video deliverables taking weeks or months? That’s perfect for the heirloom album. But for reliving the hype while it’s still fresh and sharing it with your world? Content creation answers that call.

There’s also the social media factor. Many couples spend months gathering wedding inspiration on Instagram and TikTok, so sharing their own day on those same platforms feels like closing the loop. It’s not just about showing off, it’s about being part of a community

and contributing back to the inspiration cycle that helped plan their celebration. What started as “let’s just film some phone clips” has matured into a recognized vendor role with its own workflows, expectations and artistry. And as couples continue prioritizing authenticity and immediacy, that role is only becoming more essential.

YOUR WEDDING, FULLY LIVED

If you’re drawn to storytelling that feels

spontaneous and unscripted — the kind of behind-the-scenes moments that make you feel like you’re right back in it — this service is calling your name.

Hiring a content creator means you can be fully present on your wedding day. You’re not worrying about holding your phone at the right angle, asking friends to film you or missing moments because you’re trying to document them yourself. The creator is unobtrusively there, capturing the magic while you’re busy living it. ■

Your candid moments, Captured authentically.

With Boarding Pass Productions, you’ll get every laugh, tear, and toast — delivered within 24 hours.

Every candid moment, from getting ready to send off, shot on iPhone.

Yours to keep. Forever.

to ask your Questions ENTERTAINMENT

• How would you describe your signature sound or style?

• Do you have online demos or recordings where we can view your performances?

• How extensive is your music library or song list?

• How do you feel about incorporating a request list? Can you include any songs that are particularly meaningful to us?

• Will you help us select songs for special moments, such as the grand entrance, parent-child dances or the first dance?

• What is your strategy for keeping the dance floor lively and engaging the crowd?

• What is your experience as a master of ceremonies (MC)?

• How much time will you need for setup and soundcheck?

• What kind of space or stage do you require for your performance?

• What are your power and amplifier requirements?

• How many breaks will you need during the event? What music will be provided or played during your breaks to maintain the atmosphere?

• What do you typically wear when you perform?

The Ultimate Wedding Soundtrack

What is the soundtrack to your love story? Choosing songs for your wedding can either be super exciting or completely overwhelming. It is, however, an important step in establishing the vibe and sound that will make your wedding unique.

THE RULES

When planning the music for your wedding, it’s important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules. But, if you’re looking for some helpful guidance, here are a few things to consider:

• Create a Spotify or Apple Music playlist so that whenever you hear a song you both like, you can quickly add it to the playlist to remember for later.

• Make a list of “must-play” songs to ensure that your favorite tunes are included on your special day.

• Create your list of “do-not-play” songs, which might include tracks that hold bad memories or that you simply don’t like.

• Tailor your choices to your own favorite genres and use music as a storytelling device. Personalize your wedding soundtrack by including artists you’ve seen in concert together, “your song” and even covers of classics done by contemporary artists.

• Consider the special moments of the day — such as entrances, cake cutting, first dances and the bouquet toss — and select songs that fit the occasion in terms of tempo and theme.

• Think ahead and communicate any specific requests to your sound operator. Things can happen quicker than you anticipate, so if there’s a particular part of a song you want played during a specific moment, be sure to let them know so they can edit or cue up the song accordingly.

• Finally, don’t be afraid to include your favorite songs, even if they don’t fit into the dancing portion of the evening. These songs can be played during dinner or cocktail hour to ensure that they don’t go unheard.

From processional songs to after party hot hits, scan here to discover Spotify playlists for every wedding occasion.

Crowd Pleasers

UNIQUE WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT

OPTIONS FOR EVERY KIND OF GUEST

Whether you’re taking a breather from the boogying or planning a celebration for guests with two left feet, wedding entertainment doesn’t have to begin and end with the dance floor. From live art to interactive performances, today’s weddings are full of creative ways to keep the party alive. These ideas are perfect for sparking conversation, filling reception lulls, and giving your celebration that unforgettable “something extra.”

CHOREOGRAPHED FIRST DANCE

Photography top row (left to right)

Audrey Grace Photo, Ashlee C. Photography, Madie Ice Photography, Darian Reilly Photography, Meli & Chris

Wedding Photography

Photography bottom row (left to right)

River Wild Photography, Audrey Grace Photo, Raven Shutley Studios, Heirloom Foto, Andrea de Anda Photography

Want to wow your guests right out of the gate? Kick off the reception with a choreographed first dance. Whether you go classic and romantic or opt for something upbeat and unexpected, working with a dance instructor ahead of the big day helps you feel confident and coordinated. It also gives you a fun pre-wedding date night!

GUEST PORTRAITS

Give guests a personalized keepsake they’ll actually want to frame. Hire a live illustrator to set up a station for quick guest portraits. Depending on your vibe, choose from a variety of

styles, ranging from cheeky caricatures to chic fashion illustrations. This option is a charming mix of art and interaction.

LIVE WEDDING PAINTING

Turn your ceremony or first dance into a literal work of art. A live painter sets up on-site to capture a meaningful moment on canvas, blending into the background while creating something beautiful. Guests will love watching the process unfold, and you’ll walk away with a one-of-a-kind heirloom.

WANDERING MUSICIANS

Add a melodic flair with musicians who roam the crowd instead of staying on stage. A saxophonist hyping up the dance floor or a violinist winding through tables creates an immersive atmosphere. Think of it as a private concert in the middle of your party.

DRAG ARTISTS

Nothing lights up a room like a drag performance. Whether it’s a dazzling number during dinner or a surprise emcee moment, drag artists bring zest, humor and charisma. Their presence adds a bold dose of personality that guests will remember long after the last lip-sync.

MAGICIAN

Turn your wedding into a trip to The Magic Castle with a close-up magician. Moving from group to group, a magician can perform sleight-of-hand tricks and illusions that are equal parts impressive and entertaining. It’s an unexpected delight that gets guests laughing and asking, “How did they do that?!”

YARD GAMES

Classic yard games — like giant Jenga, cornhole and ring toss — give guests of all ages a reason to get outside and mix it up. Ideal for casual outdoor weddings, these nostalgic favorites are both playful and social. Set them up among pretty signage and cozy seating to maintain the wedding vibe.

CIGAR BAR

Add a touch of indulgence with a cigar lounge setup, perfect for an outdoor patio or a designated chill zone. Whether you offer pre-cut selections or bring in a cigar roller for on-site craftsmanship, this is a luxe experience your guests won’t forget. Pair it with

aged whiskey or craft cocktails for an extra snazzy touch, and you’ve got a sophisticated hangout.

COSTUMES AND MASCOTS

Inject a dose of pure joy by inviting a special character to crash the dance floor. Whether it’s your college mascot hyping up the crowd or a beloved movie character making a cameo on the dance floor, these costumed guests bring instant energy and photo-ready fun. It’s a playful way to nod to your shared interests or personality without stealing focus from the wedding celebration itself.

PHOTO BOOTHS

A wedding classic that keeps evolving, photo booths are still a crowd favorite for a reason. From glam-filter studios to 360-degree video rigs to vintagestyle booths with printed strips, there’s an option for every aesthetic. Add custom props or a branded backdrop, and you’ve got an entertainment moment that doubles as a party favor or addition to your guest book.

LIVE POETRY

For couples craving something intimate and delightfully unexpected, add live poetry to your reception. Poets armed with typewriters craft custom poems on the spot, typing out artful bursts of wit or tenderness for your guests to take home.

TEMPORARY TATTOOS

Give your guests a playful way to wear the celebration with custom temporary tattoos. Whether you feature your pets, your initials or inside jokes only your crew will understand, a temporary tattoo station adds an alternative, interactive twist.

DISPOSABLE CAMERAS

Channel some throwback charm with a table stocked with disposable or instant cameras. Encourage guests to capture the night from their candid viewpoint throughout the night. At the end of the party, have everyone drop their cameras in a collection box. Develop and enjoy the reel of behindthe-scenes moments that await! ■

REAL WEDDINGS

Editorials and styled visions are fun, but let’s see how it’s really done! These Atlanta-area real weddings will inspire and excite, providing ideas you can incorporate into your own love story.

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LAWANDA & AS-SAMAD 42West

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NOOR & REID The St. Regis Atlanta

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LAUREN & JONATHAN The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

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DEEPA & THOMAS Château Élan

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MADDY & ANTON Meadows at Mossy Creek

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OLIVIA & DAVIS Cherokee Town and Country Club

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BROOKE & LUCAS Love To Dream

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CAMARYN & LEVI Ambient Plus Studio

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CHLOE & TEDDIE TPC Sugarloaf Country Club

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CHLOE & MARK Fernbank Museum

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CIARA & MEAGHAN Bold Monk Brewing Co.

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SHIRA & BEN Guardian Works

LAWANDA & AS-SAMAD

From the moment guests stepped inside 42West, it was clear this was no ordinary wedding. Full of faith and romance, Lawanda and As-Samad’s “Bloom in Love” themed celebration unfolded like a living fairytale.

“How we met wasn’t just a coincidence, it was a quiet miracle, wrapped in everyday moments that only God could have orchestrated,” Lawanda recalled. For years, she prayed for a man who would love her deeply, honor her children and walk beside her in faith. Then came one hesitant girls’ night out, when As-Samad approached her and offered to buy her a drink. From that moment, everything fell into place.

At 42West, gospel melodies filled the air as guests were ushered to their seats. The altar, positioned in the center of the room, symbolized how the couple’s union would be held by the support of their community. Guests dressed in elegant black highlighted the couple’s presence: Lawanda in a sparkling crystal-adorned mermaid gown by Winnie Couture, and As-Samad in a crisp, all-white doublebreasted tuxedo.

If the ceremony was heartfelt, the reception was spellbinding. Typically industrial, the venue was reimagined into a vibrant dreamscape, complete with cascading red drapery and suspended florals creating a blooming canopy overhead. Their first dance was cinematic, made all the more magical as a ballerina pirouetted around them.

The bride reflected, “God didn’t just bring us together, He prepared us for each other. And every day since, we’ve been living the answer to those prayers.” Bathed in the golden glow of candles, Lawanda and As-Samad’s wedding certainly showcased this storybook union.

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Fotos by Fola

VENUE: 42West

PLANNER: The Sharp Standard

FLORAL: Perfect Creation

BRIDE’S GOWN: Winnie Couture

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Richmenlooks

HAIR: Pricked By a Rose

MAKEUP: Envious Glamour

STATIONERY: Papered Wonders

CATERING: Bold Catering & Design

CAKE: K & J’s Elegant Pastries

DANCE FLOOR: Laced Vinyl Shoppe

PHOTO BOOTH & UPLIGHTING: Platinum

Entertainment

FLOWERINA: Jewel Ballerina

ENTERTAINMENT: DJ 6Five

CONTENT CREATION: Fotos By Fola

BROOKE & LUCUS

After 10 years together, Brooke and Lucus exchanged vows at Love To Dream in Buford, bringing their enduring love story to life in monochromatic elegance.

Brooke and Lucus met at the University of Georgia, where Brooke worked as a Community Advisor in Creswell Hall. Though Lucus was her resident, she maintained professional boundaries—at least initially. About a year after he moved out, a mutual friend suggested they try dating. Brooke hesitated but agreed to a group date. By the end of a meal full of charm and humor, she knew there was something worth exploring.

The couple’s styling was paramount, and both wore custom ensembles from indie designers. Entrusting her bridal vision to emerging designer Rikki Raiford of IHRIE, Brooke became the first bride to commission a custom gown from the label. Raiford delivered a stunning satin corset gown adorned with delicate lace and topped with a single-tier mantilla veil. Completing the ensemble was her older sister Brittneé, owner of Beauty by Beé, whose artistry in hair and makeup added the perfect finishing touch. Lucus matched Brooke’s sophistication in a custom white double-breasted tuxedo with an oversized statement bowtie from Sidohr Custom Clothiers.

For their ceremony and reception, the couple created an intimate celebration centered around their “A Life of Luster” theme, a playful nod to their surname. After a decade of partnership, they celebrated not just a marriage, but a legacy built on love, intention and impeccable style.

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Lety Altam Photography

VIDEOGRAPHER: Dr8nn Multimedia

VENUE: Love To Dream

PLANNING & FLORAL: Leighton Reid

BRIDE’S GOWN: IHRIE

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Sidohr Custom Clothiers

JEWELRY: Luxor Fine Jewelry

HAIR & MAKEUP: Beauty By Beé

STATIONERY: Vo Handmade

CATERING: Full Belly Weddings and Events

CAKE: Bohemian Bakery

ENTERTAINMENT: Love To Dream

NOOR & REID

On December 21, Noor and Reid turned the St. Regis Atlanta into a Christmas dream come true — a shimmering pink and red, ornament-strewn fantasy that felt equal parts elegant and exuberant.

The couple, both practicing attorneys, met through a mutual friend (a Spanish court interpreter for the court) and discovered an instant connection rooted in shared values: integrity, hard work and devotion to family. Noor’s Palestinian American heritage and Reid’s European American roots have enriched their partnership, creating a diverse and powerful dynamic both in the courtroom and in their home.

With the celebration landing just days before Christmas, Noor and Reid leaned fully into festive luxe. Guests entered the ballroom through a grand floral arch of red and pink roses, holly berries and oversized satin bows. Inside, both sequined tablecloths and reflective mirrored tables held place settings with scene-completing wreath-shaped menu cards. Overhead, the ceiling dazzled with tinsel trees framing the focal point: a display of oversized pink gift boxes swathed in ribbons and suspended mid-air like ornaments themselves, twinkling amid beads and baubles. Below it all, the monogrammed dance floor anchored a tinsel-lined stage, the final flourish in an immersive design.

Handmade escort ornaments, a showstopping seven-tiered cake and thoughtful touches at every turn created a sense of wonder. It felt like stepping into Christmas morning itself — minus the pajamas, but with champagne flutes instead of cocoa mugs. And so surrounded by love, glitz and Christmas cheer, Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy stepped into their merrily ever after.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Willett Photo

VIDEOGRAPHER: Easton Film Co

VENUE: The St. Regis Atlanta

PLANNER: Brianne McMullan Events

FLORAL, DECOR & RENTALS: Sejour Events

BRIDE’S GOWN: Winnie Couture

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse

HAIR: Jolie Artistry & Co.

MAKEUP: Bogart Beauty

STATIONERY: Paper Daisies Stationery

CATERING: The St. Regis Atlanta

CAKE: Baker’s Man Inc.

TABLETOP RENTALS: TableMade, fête

DRAPING: Unique Event Elements

DISPLAYS & WRAPS: Indaglow Productions

SINGER: Usama Baalbaki

DJ: Radial Entertainment

DANCE GROUP: Al Fursan Dabka & Zaffah Group

CAMARYN & LEVI

A full-color summer disco pulsing with personality, Camaryn and Levi’s June wedding transformed Ambient Plus Studio into a vivid art installation.

This wedding bore the couple’s fingerprints everywhere. Levi’s dad officiated, his brother played keyboard, Camaryn’s closest friend photographed it and her mother’s best friend cooked the dinner. Even the hired vendors felt woven into the family by the end.

Oftentimes, wedding venues get described as blank canvases. But for Camaryn and Levi, Ambient Plus Studio became a living studio. Instead of a grand reveal, their family spent the day at the venue, getting ready together and witnessing the design come to life. As light shifted throughout the morning, Melissa Richardson of Mel Makes painted a blooming mural across the white stage, and Megan Corbat Design’s colorful florals were placed with strategic whimsy. By the time the ceremony arrived, everyone had watched the couple’s vision fully realized.

From the start, the couple knew their wedding needed to feel electric, nostalgic and entirely theirs. Pulling inspiration from 1970s disco posters, Camaryn’s illustrations and their own home decor, Megan Corbat Design crafted an extraordinary scene. To tie it all together, she leaned into Atlanta’s June bounty, using local, seasonal blooms from area farms and her own cutting garden, all accented by funky disco balls and fresh fruit.

In every brushstroke and playful detail, their personalities shone through. With collaboration as their guiding principle, Camaryn and Levi trusted the process and ultimately created a celebration that was uniquely and unapologetically theirs

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Gordie Photo

VENUE: Ambient Plus Studio

DESIGN & FLORAL: Megan Corbat Design

CUSTOM IRIDESCENT ANTHURIUM: Haus of Stems

BRIDE’S GOWN: Suite Bridal

HAIR & MAKEUP: Emily Peters Gidley

NAILS: La Belle Summerhill Nail Bar

CATERING: The Pantry Dothan

PIZZA: Southern Crust Catering Co.

CAKE: Sweet Creations by Candi

COOKIES: Cookies by Kaela

MURALIST: Mel Makes

DANCE FLOOR: Wiregrass Event Rentals

MARQUEE LETTERS: Alpha-Lit Dothan

ENTERTAINMENT: DJ Smooth

LIVE GUEST PORTRAITS: Lexi Brite

LAUREN & JONATHAN

Planning a wedding while living on opposite sides of the world isn’t easy. Lauren was traveling internationally as a professional volleyball player, Jonathan was working with the NBA in Texas and their dream wedding was taking shape in Atlanta. Bringing in Gloria Schulz Events to orchestrate every detail, a stunning black-tie celebration at the Ritz-Carlton Atlanta came together — all in under a year.

But their story began years earlier at Baylor University, where both were student-athletes. Between early morning practices and cheering each other on at games, a bond formed that would carry them through careers, continents and, now, down the aisle.

On their wedding day, Lauren and Jonathan chose to forego a first look, saving that moment for the ceremony. As Lauren walked down an aisle flanked by lush pastel blooms, Jonathan’s authentic, emotional reaction set the tone for the ceremony that followed. Officiated by Lauren’s childhood pastor and standing before a flower-adorned wooden cross, the ceremony was intimate and centered on their faith.

The reception’s champagne, gold, and soft pastel palette created an elegant and warm atmosphere. As the evening progressed, the energy in the ballroom soared when The Celebrity All Stars Band took the stage. Midway through the night, Lauren re-emerged in a white mini dress and personalized cowboy boots emblazoned with her new initials and wedding date — a touch honoring their Texan origin story.

From student-athletes to life partners, Lauren and Jonathan’s wedding beautifully honored both the distance they’ve traveled and the foundation that made it all possible.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Glorianna Chan Photography

VIDEOGRAPHER: Claudia Goodwin Films

VENUE: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

PLANNER: Gloria Schulz Events

FLORAL: Bloomin’ Bouquets

BRIDE’S GOWN: Wisdom & Willow Collection from J. Andrew’s Bridal

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Guffey’s Of Atlanta

HAIR: Brides by Deanna

MAKEUP: All Jhaz’d Up Makeup

STATIONERY: A&P Designs

CATERING: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

CAKE: Baker’s Man Inc.

RENTALS: EventWorks

CEREMONY MUSIC: Cobalt Strings

PHOTO BOOTH: FotoBo Photobooth Co.

ENTERTAINMENT: The Celebrity All Stars

FAVORS: Garrett’s Popcorn

CHLOE & TEDDIE

On the morning of Chloe and Teddie’s wedding, dark skies and thick humidity had everyone nervously eyeing the forecast. Vendors and family members scrambled to adjust plans, thinking, “Did they really have to pick an outdoor wedding?” But after an absolute downpour that would have sent any couple into a panic, the skies opened up. The clouds dispersed just moments before their noon ceremony, as if on cue. At TPC Sugarloaf Country Club, their celebration managed to be rustic, opulent and endearing all at once. From the moment guests arrived, they were transported straight to Provence, where Chloe and Teddie had gotten engaged. The experience was fully immersive — even the air told a story, carrying notes of lavender, vanilla, citrus and rose drifting from diffusers, fresh florals and fragrant oils. Acoustic love songs floated through the space as the ninth green and its glassy lake framed the ceremony backdrop.

Inside the main hall, Chinoiserie accents wove through signage, décor and florals, while a custom stained-glass window near the entrance declared “Amore, Sincerity, Resilience.” Baroque and gothic details layered in just enough drama, perfectly nodding to their stylish, globetrotting sensibilities. And because their celebration unfolded in the afternoon, Chloe and Teddie traded the classic dance-all-night energy for something their own: an ice cream bar lush with toppings, rounds of bubbly mimosas and an interactive trivia game that had guests laughing and competing. With their Dior and Chrome Hearts wedding bands, Chloe and Teddie celebrated with their own signature tastes. Even when the weather throws a curveball, a couple with vision and a style can turn the day into something unforgettable.

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Kim Hymes Photography

VENUE: TPC Sugarloaf Country Club

PLANNER: Jenée Events

CEREMONY FLORAL: FauxReal Flowers

RECEPTION FLORAL: Boxwood Event Rentals

BRIDE’S GOWN: Formally Yours, Inc.

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Prada

HAIR & MAKEUP: Leah Makeup

SIGNAGE: On This Day Studio

CAKE: Kim’s Wife Homebaking

RICE CAKE BOXES: Nakwon Sweet Rice

ENTERTAINMENT: DJ K1NETIK

DEEPA & THOMAS

A Tamilian wedding inspired by the beauty and traditions of Kerala, India, Thomas (“Tom”) and Deepa’s fusion wedding was grounded with South Indian tradition yet completely their own.

When it came to choosing a wedding location, Château Élan made for the ideal venue. Deepa spent her childhood in Northern California, surrounded by rolling vineyards and golden light, but her parents now call Atlanta home. Château Élan’s elegant winery setting bridged both worlds — evoking the landscapes of her upbringing while welcoming guests with the warmth of the South. Its blend of rustic charm and refined luxury created the perfect setting for a celebration built around the joining of cultures.

Accented with gold and steeped in shades of red, green and white, Château Élan’s Glasstop Atrium transformed into a South Indian dreamscape. Planner RHS Events crafted a design that intertwined the traditions Deepa grew up with and the contemporary aesthetic she loves today. As guests entered the Hindu ceremony, they were met with golden light pouring through the atrium ceiling, jasmine and orchids cascading overhead and a mandap glowing with brass lamps and lush florals.

After the morning ceremony, guests gathered for a thali lunch, with golden platters filled with South Indian favorites: Avial, lemon rice, and sweet payasam. Live sitar music floated through the room while friends and family soaked up the moving Hindu ceremony they just witnessed. Sacred and joyful, Deepa and Tom’s celebration offered a rare pause from fast, Excel-filled days — a moment for two Manhattan finance professionals to honor not only their union, but the cultures that shaped them.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Glorianna Chan Photography

VIDEOGRAPHER: ENMUSE Photography

VENUE: Château Élan

PLANNER: RHS Events

FLORAL: Wedding Design

BRIDE’S ATTIRE: Kanakavalli

GROOM’S ATTIRE: Tarun Tahiliani from Tasva

HAIR & MAKEUP: Beauty by Ami Patel

HENNA: Forever Beauty by Manisha

STATIONERY: The Knot

CATERING: Peri Peri Catering

RENTALS: Triple Crown Event Rentals

DRAPING: Touchup by Sindu

LIVE MUSIC: John Stephens

DJ: M4U Events

CHLOE & MARK

Growing up in a family that loved museum visits, Chloe always dreamed of getting married surrounded by exhibits and artifacts. But it wasn’t until she started venue hunting that she realized this childhood fantasy could actually become reality. The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, with its life-size Argentinosaurus and Giganotosaurus dinosaurs looming over the Great Hall, offered a dream-come-true setting. The venue offered just the right amount of Jurassic Park vibes and a nod to all those hours she’d spent “nerding out” at natural history museums with her family.

For Chloe and Mark, a lighthearted and adventurous couple, the venue was only the start. Their wedding aesthetic needed to match their energy, so they began with an unexpected combination: 1970s disco paired with the sleek minimalism of the 1990s. They loved the vibrancy of disco culture, but refined the vision to fit into a summer wedding lens.

To bring this niche concept to life, they turned to planner and designer Karen Landis of Pop + Fizz. Landis designed color-blocked concepts throughout, all crescendoing around a funky, completely custom dance floor. And in true disco fashion, the couple wanted their reception to be a real party. To get guests excited and mingling, they included a “Dance Card” seating chart that encouraged people to plan their evening dances during cocktail hour.

Every detail showcased Chloe and Mark’s playful personalities — from the “Cosmo, Bean & Toast Bar” named after their pets to the couple lip-syncing to Britney Spears on a dance floor framed by prehistoric bones and mirror balls. Talk about a night that’ll go down in history!

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Mint Forever Photography

RECEPTION DETAIL PHOTOGRAPHER: Alexis Lunsford Photography

VENUE: Fernbank Museum

PLANNER & DESIGNER: Pop + Fizz

FLORAL & DECOR: Luxe + Bloom

HAIR & MAKEUP: Erin Ryser

STATIONERY: Paper Daisies Stationery

CATERING: Bold Catering & Design

CAKE: Cake Envy

CUSTOM FABRICATION & RENTALS: Party Bound

DRAPERY: A Touch of Drapery

LINENS: BBJ La Tavola

DANCE FLOOR: Atlanta Dance Floor Rentals

CEREMONY MUSIC: Cobalt Strings

ENTERTAINMENT: Ballroom Blitz

TRANSPORTATION: Atlantic Limousine & Transportation

GETAWAY CAR: Classic Elegance Cars

MADDY & ANTON

Since meeting at a CrossFit gym over a decade ago, Maddy and Anton built a life full of laughter, traveling adventures and raising three wonderful kids. Their wedding, however, was a long time coming. First delayed by a global pandemic, their plans were put on hold again in 2024 when their eldest daughter, Katarina, was diagnosed with leukemia. Between hospital rooms and treatment schedules, a wedding felt impossibly far away.

But through the Meadows at Mossy Creek’s annual Give Love event — a giveaway supporting couples facing hardship — Maddy and Anton’s wedding dreams finally became reality. With this giveaway, loved ones nominate deserving applicants, and a team of generous local vendors steps in to craft a fully donated celebration. When Maddy and Anton were selected, a dream team assembled and pulled out all the stops.

The couple envisioned a joyful rainbow-themed celebration: a visual representation of hope after years of weathering storms. That vibrant palette threaded through every detail, starting with their ceremony overlooking the North Georgia mountains, where the aisle bloomed in a gradient of color.

Inside the reception, the Prissy Plate Company and Stems Atlanta created a standout tablescape and a hanging floral installation complete with custom lampshades and cascading blooms.

From Ronni Paints’ live artwork to Party Bound’s luxury kids table, no detail was too small to be included.

After years of life’s storms, Maddy and Anton finally had their moment. Surrounded by those who supported them through it all, they celebrated a hard-won new chapter painted in the brightest colors.

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Arcadia Studios, Christina Dianne Photography, Kate Waldis Creative

VIDEOGRAPHER: One Weddings Films

VENUE: Meadows at Mossy Creek

PLANNER: One Weddings Events

FLORAL: Stems Atlanta

HAIR: Twist Me Pretty

MAKEUP: Hello Beautiful by Noel

STATIONERY: Doodle Depot Designs

CATERING: Natalie Jane’s Catering

CAKE: Cake Envy

BAR: Get Fizzy

DECOR & TABLETOP RENTALS: The Prissy Plate Company

RENTALS: Party Bound

FIREWORKS & MARQUEE LETTERS: bridelights

PHOTO BOOTH: Little Gypsy Camera Camper

ENTERTAINMENT: Club Rett

LIVE PAINTER: Ronni Paints

FLORAL PRESERVATION: Lucia Artistry

CONTENT CREATION: Christina Dianne Photography

ACCOMMODATIONS: Cottages at Mossy Creek

CIARA & MEAGHAN

When wedding photographer Ciara (Ciara Noelle Photos) and Meaghan began planning their wedding, they felt a tad over-informed about their options. After five years of photographing countless celebrations, Ciara was motivated to make their wedding day different. At the end of the day, she and Meaghan just wanted to celebrate with their favorite people.

So forgoing tradition, the brides envisioned a cozy celebration full of candles and conversation. They found their perfect ceremony venue at the natural and private Cator Woolford Gardens. Beyond its undeniable beauty, the couple loved that the venue’s proceeds support the Frazer Center, a nonprofit on the same grounds where people of all ability levels gather and flourish in an inclusive community. This mission resonated with them personally, making the venue even more meaningful.

With 30 of their nearest and dearest, the couple exchanged vows, wandered the gardens and shared a Martinelli’s toast with meticulously curated vintage glasses. Afterward, they hosted a dinner party for 80 guests at Bold Monk Brewing Co., the very spot where they had their first date in 2021. Every table featured pieces from their home: Ciara’s vintage camera collection, books from their shelves, antiqued trinkets and framed photos of their pups, Fripp and Charley.

From the intimate gardens of their ceremony to the speakeasy, cozy ambiance of their reception, the day felt less like a traditional wedding and more like the warmest dinner party. After years of Ciara capturing others’ love stories through her lens, the couple finally celebrated their own — surrounded by a lively dance floor and the people who matter most.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Madie Ice Photography

SUPER 8 VIDEOGRAPHER: Tags Photography

CEREMONY VENUE: Cator Woolford Gardens

RECEPTION VENUE: Bold Monk Brewing Co.

PLANNER: Smooth as Butter Weddings

FLORAL: Three Thirty Florals

CIARA’S GOWN: Magnolia Laine Bridal

CIARA’S ALTERATIONS: White Orchid Bridal

MEAGHAN’S GOWN: Kelly’s Closet

MEAGHAN’S ALTERATIONS: Kiki Bisous Atelier

HAIR & MAKEUP: Bristle & Bride

STATIONERY: Minted

CATERING: Bold Monk Brewing Co.

CAKE: Piece of Cake

MATCHBOOK FAVORS: BrodieBee

CEREMONY VIOLINIST: Megan Mathis

ENTERTAINMENT: Ballroom Blitz

TRANSPORTATION: Atlantic Limousine & Transportation

OLIVIA & DAVIS

There’s something magical about an April wedding in the South — the air is warm but not stifling and everything feels alive with possibility. For Olivia and Davis, their spring celebration at Cherokee Country Club was exactly that: a day filled with tradition, joy and the kind of dancing that nobody wanted to end.

The day began at St. Philip’s Cathedral, a gorgeous traditional church that set the tone for what was to come. After saying their vows, the celebration moved to Cherokee Country Club, where a sailcloth tent overlooked the golf course. As the sun set over the greens, guests gathered under peaked tenting adorned with an installation of woven basket pendants that hung overhead like floating art.

The couple’s design vision was crisp and fresh: shades of green paired with classic whites created a palette that felt like the season itself. Lush arrangements were made of white florals and verdant ferns, while Olivia’s bridesmaids in their green dresses became part of the living tableau. Woven rattan chargers at each place setting echoed the baskets overhead, and custom monogrammed napkins added a personal touch.

Olivia and Davis chose a seated dinner, giving everyone a chance to connect and linger over the meal. Then the Jordan Kahn Orchestra took the stage and transformed the evening into nonstop dancing that guests are still talking about. As the night drew to a close, the newlyweds made their grand exit in a butter-yellow vintage Ford Bronco, driving off into the night in style — a final perfect detail in a day that was everything they dreamed of and more.

To see more photos from this real wedding, visit atlantastyleweddings.com/real-weddings.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Davy Whitener Photography

VIDEOGRAPHER: The Film Collective

CEREMONY VENUE: The Cathedral of St. Philip

RECEPTION VENUE: Cherokee Town and Country Club

PLANNER: Toast Events

FLORAL & DECOR: Topher Mack Floral & Events

BRIDE’S GOWN: Lela Rose Bridal

GROOM’S FORMALWEAR: Todd Snyder

HAIR & MAKEUP: Claudia Mejerle Rogers

STATIONERY: Simplyput Paper

RENTALS: Atlanta Party Rentals

LINENS: BBJ La Tavola

TENT: Skyline Tent Company

ENTERTAINMENT: Jordan Kahn Orchestra

TRANSPORTATION: Atlantic Limousine & Transportation

SHIRA & BEN

Texture, greenery and charisma defined Shira and Ben’s spring wedding at Guardian Works. With planning by Alexa Eve Events, they blended their Jewish heritage with Brooklyn-inspired cool, all set against the venue’s striking industrial backdrop.

After a laid-back morning getting ready with her wedding party, Shira slipped on a silk, bias-cut Cortana gown and met Ben at the venue for a private first look and vow exchange. Tucked into a quiet corner, they sat knee-to-knee reading the promises they had written for one another before joining loved ones for the ketubah signing and bedeken.

For the ceremony, the couple embraced Guardian Works’ raw character — exposed brick, soaring beams, floods of natural light — and softened it with cascading greenery that climbed the structure as if it had always belonged there. Though the former warehouse soared to 24-foot ceilings, beneath a greenery-laden and tallit-draped chuppah Shira and Ben existed in their own world. Echoing the living canopy overhead, vintage rugs in terra cotta and sun-faded hues lined the aisle, their worn fibers adding warmth and history underfoot.

The reception carried the theme forward with sage linens, tables glowing with candlelight and arrangements in shades of green punctuated by marigold, cream and sherbet. Party Express Entertainment kept energy crackling through the room, and a playful schtick — a tradition rooted in the mitzvah of entertaining the couple — set the tone for the night. The Hora brought the night to its peak with Shira and Ben hoisted into the air, breathless with laughter and surrounded by everyone they loved.

VENDOR LIST

PHOTOGRAPHER: Andrea De Anda Photography

VENUE: Guardian Works

PLANNER: Alexa Eve Events

FLORAL & DECOR: JLD Designs LLC

HAIR & MAKEUP: Make Me Up GA

STATIONERY: Vo Handmade

CATERING & CAKE: EB Catering Co.

ENTERTAINMENT: Party Express Entertainment by Tevyeh

Celebration Locations

ATLANTA - INSIDE THE PERIMETER - CONTINUED

42West 42westentertainmentgroup.com

The 1904 On Piedmont Park 1904venue.com

Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu

The American Hotel Atlanta Downtown Tapestry Collection by Hilton americanhotelatlanta.com

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center callanwolde.org

Fernbank Museum fernbankmuseum.org

The Fox Theatre foxtheatre.org

The Georgian Terrace thegeorgianterrace.com

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead grandhyattatlanta.com

Kimpton The Shane shanehotelatlanta.com

Moxy Hotel Atlanta Midtown marriott.com/atlox

Ruby Chow’s rubychows.com

The Ramspeck theramspeck.com

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ atlbd-renaissance-atlanta-midtown-hotel/events/

SCAD - Ivy Hall scad.edu/ivy-hall

Signia by Hilton Atlanta signiabyhiltonatlanta.com

The Starling, Curio Collection by Hilton thestarling.com

Ted Turner Dr. NW, Atlanta

404.872.5338

3300 Peachtree Rd.

48 13th St. NE, Atlanta

Glen Iris Dr. NE, Unit C-1, Atlanta

127 E. Court Sq., Decatur

678.412.2400 866 W. Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta

Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta

404.223.4414

159 Northside Dr. NW, Atlanta

404.892.6000

188 14th St., Atlanta

Prelude to the Party

Your ceremony and reception venues are probably the first locations you think of when planning your wedding. But there’s more than just one big party to select a venue for! From rehearsal dinners to bridal showers to welcome parties, here’s a variety of options for where you can host your pre-wedding festivities.

ATLANTA - INSIDE THE PERIMETER

Maximum # of Seated Guests: 200

The 1904 provides a sophisticated canvas to bring your unique vision to life — whether it’s the wedding of your dreams, a bar or bat mitzvah, corporate events, holiday parties, a milestone birthday, bridal/baby shower or other special event. Our flexible floor plans and furnishings welcome groups of 30 or 300—and everyone in between.

Maximum # of Seated Guests: 100

Discover Kimpton The Shane Hotel, where your wedding weekend transforms into an unforgettable celebration. Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, this chic venue offers stylish spaces for ceremonies and receptions, complemented by personalized service. Enjoy exquisite dining, luxurious accommodations, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect prelude to your dream party.

shanehotelatlanta.com The Ramspeck

127 E. Court Sq., Decatur 404.377.3484

Maximum # of Seated Guests: 50

At the Ramspeck, we invite you to luxuriate in our beautifully intimate setting, where generations of love will pour into your new life over gourmet and candlelight. Our 5-star menus, curated bar, and exceptional service will ensure an elegant celebration to see you along your wedding journey. Join us at the Ramspeck for your next private event!

theramspeck.com

Ruby Chow’s

620 Glen Iris Dr. NE, Unit C-1, Atlanta

404.585.7829

Maximum # of Seated Guests: 140

Step into the vibrant world of Ruby Chow’s, a truly unique Atlanta venue that blends innovative Pan-Asian and Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine with an eclectic, high-energy atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, our stylish ambiance, covered and heated patio area, and attentive service guarantee a memorable experience that guests will rave about.

rubychows.com

SCAD - Ivy Hall 179 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta 404.253.3206

Maximum # of Seated Guests: 200

SCAD - Ivy Hall, formerly the Peters House, was designed by noted architect Gottfried L. Norman in 1883, and extensively rehabilitated by SCAD in 2008. The well-preserved red brick mansion is a fine representation of high Victorian architecture. This beautiful location, conveniently sited in Midtown, Atlanta, is available to rent for special occasions or corporate events.

scad.edu/ivy-hall

Maximum # of Seated Guests:

Signia by Hilton Atlanta’s impressive outdoor space spans up to 9,000 sq. ft. and offers dual areas for receptions and small weddings. Our grass-covered Event Lawn is located on the first floor and pairs nicely with the Dream Ballroom and Terrace Lounge, offering direct views of Mercedes-Benz Stadium while the fourth-floor event deck delivers picturesque views of Atlanta.

signiabyhiltonatlanta.com

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Advertisers’ Index

Beauty, Hair & Makeup

Babeland Bridal 47

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Magnolia Mobile Hydration 15

Pulse & Clarity Wellness 15

Spa Reserve at Wind Creek 45

Ceremony & Reception Locations

42West 66-67

The 1904 on Piedmont 74

Agnes Scott College 75

The American Hotel Atlanta Downtown

Tapestry Collection by Hilton 76

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center 68-69

Douglasville Conference Center 88

Fernbank Museum 59

The Fox Theatre 77

The Georgian Terrace 63

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead 78

Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau 85

The Ivy on the Plains 89

Kimpton the Shane 79 Meadows at Mossy Creek 86-87

Moxy Hotel Atlanta Midtown 80

The Newnan Centre 90

The Oakley on the Lake 91

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown 61

Ruby Chow’s 81

Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center 53

SCAD - Ivy Hall 57

Signia by Hilton Atlanta 82

The Starling, Curio Collection by Hilton 70-71

Visit Sandy Springs 19

The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead 72-73

The Whitley Hotel 83

The Wimbish House 84 DESTINATION Atlantis, Paradise Island Back Cover

& Spa Inside Front Cover-1

Islands Weddings 63

South Walton, Florida 2-3

Visit Tybee Inside

Culinary Services

Say “I do” amidst one of the largest marine habitats in the world, with an elegant ballroom reception or a beachside soiree under the stars. The possibilities are endless. Love is in the air.