Wedding Planner 2026

Wedding Planner

February 2026

Wedding Planner

3 Tips to Create a Reasonable Wedding Budget

Tips to Streamline a Wedding Day

A checklist of Vendors to Facilitate Wedding Planning

Unique Locations to Tie the Knot

Responsibilities Typically Delegated to Notable Bridal Party Members

Navigating Wedding Transportation

Why It Pays to Trust a Pro With Wedding Photography

Questions to Ask When Interviewing Caterers

Catering Worksheet

Tips When Toasting the Happy Couple Floral Checklist

The Many Ways to Incorporate Floral Arrangements

Simple Touches That Add An Elegant Feel to a Wedding Cake Worksheet

How to Curate Your Reception Playlist

How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Dress

A Beginner’s Guide to Engagement Ring Shopping

Questions to Ask When Vetting Wedding Officiants

The Grandview of Ellington Wedding & Event Services

Wedding Budget Checklist

Wedding Rings

Wedding Gown

Groom’s Tuxedo

Bride’s Hair

Bride’s Makeup

The Ceremony

Reception: Food

Reception: Catering

Wedding Cake

Rentals

Stationery

Flowers

Photography

Videography

Transportation

Gifts

Other Accessories

Honeymoon

Other Items:

Total Budget

Estimate

Paid By

3 Tips to Create a Reasonable Wedding Budget

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Weddings are momentous occasions in the lives of couples. Recently engaged couples likely know that weddings can be expensive.The experts at the online wedding resource Zola estimated that couples would spend around $36,000 on their weddings in 2025. If that figure produces some sticker shock, couples can rest easy in the knowledge that such estimates reflect a host of variables, not all of which are applicable to each wedding. It also can calm couples’ nerves to develop a budget as the first step in wedding planning. Once a budget is worked out, couples can then use that to guide their decisions.

The need to budget for a wedding may seem obvious, but couples, particularly those tying the knot for the first time, might not know where to begin. Couples facing such a situation can consider these three budget-building tips for their wedding.

1. Identify where funds are coming from. Parents of the bride were once the traditional sources of wedding funds, but that’s less common than it used to be. According The Knot Real Weddings Study, the average age of marriage in 2024 was 32 years. That means many couples are now on relatively firm financial footing by the time they get married, prompting some to pay for the entire affair themselves. Couples looking to establish a wedding budget can first identify who’s helping to fund it. If

offer to pitch in, couples can count such offers toward the total amount of money they have to fund the big day.

2. Consider working with a financial planner. Another strategy to building a budget is to work with a professional to determine how much you can afford. Many couples now live together prior to getting engaged, and Zola notes that more than half (53 percent) even shop for rings together. Advanced wedding planning can be a wise move, particularly for couples footing the

family members. A financial planner can help couples determine what they can afford and offer tips to grow their existing wealth with an eye on paying for their wedding.

3. Identify your priorities. The Knot reports that venue and rentals accounted for slightly more than onequarter (27 percent) of couples’ wedding budgets in 2025. While venues and rentals are typically the biggest expense when planning a wedding, couples building a budget should identify their biggest priority. Some might want a stunning venue, while others might feel a backyard ceremony is perfect for them. Identifying your biggest priorities and then devoting enough funds to those areas can guide the budget-building process.

Weddings can be expensive. Budgeting can help couples get the wedding they want without breaking the bank.

Tips to Streamline a Wedding Day

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Marriage is a social institution that is thousands of years old. Marriage has undergone changes over the years, but plenty of people are still tying the knot and hosting amazing wedding celebrations.

A total of 2,065,905 marriages were recorded in the United States in 2022. Statistics Canada indicates 98,355 registered marriages took place in 2020. Prospective brides and grooms may be inclined to host more simplified and streamlined weddings in order to save money and time. Finding ways to streamline a wedding is not necessarily that challenging.

Keep the ceremony short.

While this may not always be an option for couples who are having a traditional religious ceremony that is beholden to the rules of the faith, some couples can opt for a shortened ceremony that is more direct and to the point. A streamlined ceremony can stick strictly to the exchange of vows, rather than including readings, musical interludes, candle lighting ceremonies, and more. Couples who want religious ceremonies can speak with their officiants to see how they can stick to tradition, but keep the ceremony more succinct.

Communicate roles for the wedding party.

Having designated people to handle a variety of tasks at the wedding fosters efficiency and can save time by moving things along. It also allows for smooth transitions during parts of the ceremony. For example, the maid of honor traditionally holds the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony. But other bridesmaids can be enlisted to hold items or fix the bride’s train or veil as well.

Select one venue.

Holding the wedding ceremony and reception in the same place cuts down on travel time and logistical issues for both the guests and those involved in the wedding. It also reduces necessary costs for transportation.

Choose a nearby location.

Asking guests and vendors to travel great distances can add time to the wedding festivities. Selecting a centrally located ceremony site and reception hall will streamline many of the steps people would have to take to attend. It also might remove the need to arrange overnight accommodations for the wedding.

Hire a wedding coordinator.

A professional planner and coordinator will keep the wedding moving along on time and ensure a smooth process. This professional can remain emotionally neutral, solve problems and ensure that everyone is in the right place.

Streamlining a wedding and making it more efficient can save time and money.

Facilitate Wedding Planning

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Planning a wedding is a significant undertaking. Though many tasks associated with wedding planning are enjoyable, the number of variables that must be coordinated can make the process feel a little overwhelming at times. Staying organized can make wedding planning a lot easier, and this checklist of vendors can be utilized by couples looking to stay calm as they plan their big day.

Wedding venue

Reception venue

Caterer

Bakery

Photographer

Videographer

Florist

Officiant

Entertainment

Jeweler Transportation

Hotel

Salon/Hairdresser

Makeup Artist

Wedding Planner

Bridal Gown Retailer

Groom’s Attire

Favors Vendor

Weddings are made up of various components, and coordinating those elements can be a significant undertaking. In addition to accommodating their own needs, couples must consider a host of variables unique to their situation, including budget. When establishing a wedding budget, couples may want to allocate a significant percentage of their funds to the reception. According to The Knot 2025 Weddings Study, much of the cost of a wedding, which cost an average of $33,000 in 2025, can be traced to reception-related expenses such as food and drinks, entertainment and venue. The Knot study found that couples spent roughly 27 percent of their wedding budget on venue and rentals, 24 percent on catering (including drinks and cake) and 11 percent on music and guest entertainment.

Unique Locations to Tie the Knot

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Couples must make a multitude of decisions when planning a wedding. One of the more significant decisions concerns where to tie the knot.

The decision of where to get married was once a given. Indeed, the majority of weddings used to be held in houses of worship. A 2020 report in the Church Times estimated that 85 percent of all weddings in the early twentieth century were religious ceremonies. Many faiths require those seeking a religious wedding to get married in a house of worship, so one can reasonably conclude that a significant percentage of married couples in the early twentieth century said “I do” within a house of worship. The Church Times report indicated that percentage dipped to 49 percent by the late 1970s, and a recent report from The Knot indicates that 16 percent of couples who wed in 2023 did so in a religious institution or house of worship.

Many couples still prefer to get married in a house of worship, but those with no such preference can consider a wide range of venues when trying to decide where to tie the knot.

• Rustic setting: The popularity of the rustic aesthetic boomed in home interior design in the early decades of the twenty-first century, and that appeal also seems to have affected couples deciding where to get married. The Knot reports that more couples tied the knot in barn wedding venues (17 percent) than houses of worship in 2023, making these charming and often scenic venues worthy of consideration.

• Historic locales: History buffs may feel there’s no greater place to say “I do” than a location that calls to mind bygone eras and notable events. Estates dating back centuries that feature expansive and awe-inspiring landscapes or mansions built during the Gilded Age can make for unique settings to tie the knot and celebrate into the wee hours.

• Oceanfront venues: Perhaps no backdrop makes for more awe-inspiring wedding photos than the ocean. Beautiful photos, not to mention pleasant temperatures and laid back vibes, undoubtedly contribute to the appeal of oceanfront weddings. Couples considering oceanfront venues may be surprised to learn that just 5 percent of weddings took place on the sand in 2023, which could make it easier than some think to book these idyllic locales.

• Botanical gardens: Floral arrangements feature prominently in many weddings, but what about saying “I do” in a venue where nature serves as your florist? Botanical gardens offer numerous spots for stunning photographs, and a formal garden can make for an impressive backdrop for the wedding ceremony.

There’s no shortage of stunning locations for couples to tie the knot. Before choosing where to say “I do,” couples can explore a wide range of prospective venues.

Responsibilities Typically Delegated to Notable Bridal Party Members

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Engaged couples tend to ask their closest family members and friends to be in their bridal parties. Such requests are an honor and bridal party members tend to be excited to play such a significant role on a couple’s wedding day. But bridal party members also do much to help engaged couples before the big day.

Couples can choose to delegate as many tasks as they desire to bridal party members. Before delegating, couples can look to tradition to guide them in regard to asking their bridal parties to lend a hand.

• Best man: The best man toast at a wedding reception tends to be a jovial part of the festivities that couples and guests look forward to, so asking a best man to give such a speech is customary. Best man responsibilities also may include organizing a bachelor party or a similar type of get-together with fellow groomsmen and other guests prior to the wedding. A best man also may coordinate a gift for the groom if the groomsmen want to give the groom an item that requires pooling resources.

• Maid/matron of honor: A maid/matron of honor typically delivers a toast at the reception prior to the best man’s speech. A maid/matron of honor also may coordinate a bachelorette party and bridal shower in the weeks or months before the wedding. A maid/matron of honor tends to play a significant role on the wedding day as well. A maid/matron of honor may handle any problems that arise in the hours before the ceremony so the bride can relax. For example, a maid/matron of honor may work to ensure the bride is shielded from issues affecting hair and makeup, the venue, last-minute gown concerns, and

other unforeseen problems that can arise. A maid/matron of honor may need to do some delegating of her own prior to the ceremony, asking fellow bridesmaids to help coordinate party plans.

• Bridesmaids: Bridesmaids can help a bride when she’s choosing her gown as well as the dresses bridesmaids themselves will wear. Bridesmaids also help the maid/matron of honor coordinate the bachelorette party and pitch in to help address any issues that arise on the day of the ceremony.

• Groomsmen: Groomsmen can be tasked with helping the best man coordinate a bachelor party. Groomsmen also can be asked to schedule their tuxedo fittings to afford enough time for alterations and orders to be completed in time for the big day.

• Parents: Parents’ roles have changed considerably in recent years. While the parents of the bride traditionally paid for the wedding and grooms’ parents were tasked with bankrolling the rehearsal dinner, many modern couples now foot some, if not all, of those bills themselves. Parents can still be asked to lend some financial assistance. In addition, couples can seek input from parents regarding reception traditions like father/daughter and mother/son dances.

Many bridal party members are willing to do whatever it takes to make a couple’s wedding day as special as possible. Couples are still urged to discuss responsibilities with bridal party members prior to delegating tasks.

Navigating Wedding

Transportation

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

On a couple’s wedding day, some effort will be required to transport the bride and groom and wedding party participants and guests. Coordinating transportation is a task couples must add to their planning checklist.

Wedding transportation is perhaps best broken down into three categories: transportation for the couple and the wedding party, transportation for guests, and transportation for unique situations. These tips can make navigating wedding transportation needs go smoothly.

Transportation

for the couple and wedding party

Ensuring that the couple and wedding party participants arrive to the ceremony (and later the reception venue) on time is essential. Couples and their attendants traditionally arrive in some sort of hired car, whether it’s a limousine or vintage/ classic ride. It’s important to find a service that will pick up the couple (separately) and their bridesmaids and groomsmen as well as parents of the bride or groom and bring them to the ceremony site. Drivers usually wait for the ceremony to end before taking passengers to photography locations and eventually the reception venue. Vendors typically price for hourly service with a minimal rental period. Larger vehicles will have a higher hourly rate.

Unique situations

Couples may want to enhance their wedding festivities with some specialized details that might require unique transportation situations. For example, a wedding that takes place on an island would require a ferry service or water taxi. Couples tying the knot during the picturesque winter season can go the extra mile and commission horse-drawn sleighs. Rustic weddings have grown in popularity. A charming hayride can complete the picture for a wedding reception held at a farm or in a converted barn.

After the festivities

Transportation for guests

Although it’s not customary to offer transportation for all guests to the ceremony or reception venue, in the event of circumstances like hotel room accommodations close to the reception, couples may want to offer shuttle service between the reception center and hotel. If the wedding reception will be non-traditional, and take place at various stop-off spots, like a bar crawl, party buses or trolley service could be considered to keep all guests together.

The couple also may need to consider transportation once the wedding has ended. Those going directly to a honeymoon may need a hired car to take them to the airport. Transportation also will be needed for any wedding party participants who did not take their own vehicles to the wedding, but rode in party buses or limousines.

Wedding transportation may not be the most glamorous aspect of wedding planning, but wellcoordinated transportation is a necessity that couples, their friends and family will appreciate.

Why It Pays to Trust a Pro With Wedding Photography

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

User-friendly technology and greatly enhanced connectivity has changed the way people approach various tasks. The do-it-yourself home improvement trend is a testament to that shift, as homeowners now have access to professional grade tools and can easily take to social media for inspiration and instructions for renovations that were once the domain of experienced contractors.

Though it can be fun and budget-friendly to embrace a DIY approach in many settings, that strategy is not ideal for every situation, including the day couples tie the knot. A couple’s wedding day is one to cherish forever, which is why it pays to rely on skilled professionals. That’s particularly so with wedding photography, which will serve as the official record of a day filled with love and laughs. Modern technology may compel some couples to think they can go without the services of a professional photographer on their wedding day, but there are many reasons to trust this important job to an experienced pro.

• Photographers can get great shots no matter the conditions. There’s a difference between snapping great shots of an idyllic setting on a smartphone and taking wedding day photographs couples will look back on for years to come. Experienced photographers have cameras capable of far more than those on a smartphone, and these skilled professionals also possess the knowledge of how to get great shots in settings that might not be so conducive to photography. A dimly lit reception hall dance floor may prove challenging for untrained amateurs, but professional photographers know what to do to get great shots in such settings. Professionals also know how to utilize natural light to their advantage when taking shots outdoors.

• Photographers handle the details. Couples have enough on their plate when planning weddings. Taking on photography duties requires identifying the right photo locations, knowing when to take photos to maximize surroundings, ensuring bridal party members are all ready to go so photos can be taken within tight deadlines, and post-wedding detailing. That’s a lot to take on, and it’s work best left to professionals.

• Photographers free up time. Many newlyweds note their wedding day seemed to fly by and was over before they knew it. Such sentiments may be even stronger when couples take on too much responsibility come the wedding day. A professional photographer will coordinate shots and timelines with couples prior to the big day and take over getting bridal party members where they need to be when they need to be there. That frees up time for couples to spend more time with each other and their guests come the day of the wedding, which in turn can make it feel as though the day didn’t fly by.

• You get a professionally finished product. Amateur photographers simply won’t produce as stunning a finished product as professionals who take and touch up photos for a living. A wedding day photo album is a keepsake couples will look back on for years, so it’s best to ensure its contents include photos taken and touched up by a skilled professional.

Couples can find ways to cut costs with their wedding budgets. But it’s best to avoid cutting corners regarding photography, as there’s no way to turn back the clock and get better shots if the efforts of amateurs fall short of expectations.

Questions to Ask When Interviewing Caterers

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Awedding reception is a joyous occasion that affords newlyweds and their guests an opportunity to celebrate into the evening. Various components combine to ensure a memorable reception, but food is a major highlight of the festivities for guests. That places a significant responsibility on couples to find a reception center or third-party caterer who can dish up food that will have guests saying “I do” to a great meal. These considerations and questions can help couples find the right caterer for their weddings.

Does my venue mandate use of a particular catering service?

The wedding planning website Zola advises that many wedding venues require couples to use a specific catering service. They may have an arrangement with a particular caterer who they trust, or the venue has in-house chefs and servers. In the earliest planning stages after the wedding date has been set, a couple should be sure to pick a venue that will serve the best food possible. Couples who have a specific caterer in mind may need to shop around for a venue that will allow outside vendors.

Identify your preferred meal

First and foremost, a couple should know how they want to have their food served and inquire with potential caterers about their standard options. Service types often include a formal sit-down dinner reception, a buffet dinner service, a family-style dinner, or a more minimal cocktail offering without a full dinner. The couple can cross out prospects that don’t offer the type of service they desire most.

Ask

what’s included

A couple should determine if a catering service offers food prepared by professionals, the amount of flexibility related to menus, if table settings are included, and if cleanup is part of the fee. Full-service catering typically includes all of this, while more limited service may be food brought in that requires the venue’s own staff to serve and clean.

Compile the right questions

It’s important to ask caterers some key questions to narrow down prospects. Some of these include:

• Are you a participant in any local business associations?

• What events with a similar concept have you catered?

• How many weddings do you book each year?

• Will my wedding be the only event you cater on that day?

• How many guests can you accommodate?

• Do you handle special food requests, such as gluten-free or kosher meals?

• How many chefs and cooks prepare the meal, or are meals exclusively prepared by the business owner?

• Do you allow substitutions or customization to a set menu?

• Do you have references for other events you have catered?

• Do you have any preferred vendors?

• What do we need to know and do regarding delivery?

Keep location in mind

The distance a caterer has to travel to cater the wedding will affect the price. It’s helpful to find a caterer who knows the venue or has had experience with a similar place.

What are the contingency plans?

When interviewing caterers, Cvent, an event management software company, suggests asking about any last-minute changes they’ve dealt with to gauge how the caterer handles problem-solving. Inquire about how they adapt if a certain menu item is no longer readily available or what they do if a piece of equipment breaks down the day of an event? Answers to these types of questions can separate seasoned professionals from those caterers who may not be as experienced.

Food is a vital component of a wedding reception, which underscores the significance of finding a talented and experienced caterer.

Caterer/Restaurant:

Address:

CateringWorksheet

Contact Person:

Phone: E-Mail:

Reception Date: Time:

Last Date/Head Count:

Total Headcount: Cost/Person:

Reception Location: Room Reserved: Set-Up Time:

Space for Entertainment: Dance Floor: No. of Staff:

Total Cost: Deposit Due Date: Check No. Balance Due/Date:

COST WORKSHEET

Hors d’oeuvres

Lunch/Dinner

Dessert

Cake

Cake Cut Fees

Nonalcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic Beverages

Coffee/Tea

Linens

Decorations

Taxes

Gratuities

Overtime Charges

Total Food

Tips When Toasting the Happy Couple

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Many special moments unfold during a couple’s wedding day.

A bride’s walk down the aisle, a married couple’s first dance together and, of course, the moment couples say “I do” are just a few of the many memorable moments to take place during a wedding.

Another memorable moment, and one that couples have little to no control over, is the wedding toast. Toasting is a tradition that some historians trace to ancient Greece, which should give nervous toasters-to-be a little more confidence as the wedding day approaches. After all, given the lengthy history of toasting, it’s likely that millions of people have toasted happy couples over the years. If millions of others can do it, then so can this year’s crop of best men, maids of honor and proud parents who will be asked to raise a glass to happy couples. As a couple’s big day draws near, those trusted with toasting the newlyweds can consider these tips.

• Introduce yourself. Unless it’s a very intimate affair with only a handful of well-acquainted guests, introduce

yourself before beginning your toast. This not only ensures everyone recognizes who you are, but also provides a simple way to begin your comments without feeling a need to impress.

• Keep things lighthearted. Though it’s best to avoid being too informal, a lighthearted toast with a funny anecdote and/or a joke or two can help to maintain the jovial vibe of the reception.

• Explain your relationship. Maids of honor and best men are often chosen because they have a special relationship with the bride or groom. So it’s alright to give a brief explanation of that relationship and explain how much it means to you during the toast.

• Toast the couple. Even though most people toasting at a wedding have a special connection with just one half of the newly married couple, it’s normal to toast the new couple and their happiness before closing your remarks. If you want to toast each person when delivering your remarks, speak to your counterpart (i.e., a maid of honor if you’re the best man, or vice versa) for some special insight.

• Keep your toast short. Toasts need not be lengthy. In fact, toasts should be on the shorter side so everyone tasked with delivering a toast can do so in a reasonable amount of time.

• Avoid winging it. Plan your remarks ahead of time, even writing down your toast or at least organizing your ideas before you’re handed the microphone. Winging it might seem like an option, but if you speak off-the-cuff you’ll likely find yourself rambling and going off course. Planning also allows time to practice your remarks before the big day, which also can help to calm your nerves.

• Remember you’re among friends. If need be, remind yourself before your toast that you’re among friends. Speaking to a room full of people you know or are at least familiar with should help you avoid the nervousness that can come with speaking to a room filled with strangers.

Toasts are a beloved wedding tradition. People tasked with toasting the happy couple can follow some simple strategies to stay calm and deliver remarks couples will remember forever.

BRIDAL BOUQUET

Style

Kinds of Flowers Color

Florist

GROOMSMEN BOUTONNIERES

Quantity

BRIDESMAID’S BOUQUETS

Quantity

Kinds of Flowers Color

Quantity

MAID OF HONOR’S BOUQUETS

Style

Kinds of Flowers Color Ribbon Cost

MOTHERS

Quantity

Kinds of Flowers

AND GRANDMOTHERS

CEREMONY FLOWERS

CENTERPIECE FLOWERS

Quantity

Kinds of Flowers

PEW MARKERS

Quantity

GROOM’S BOUTONNIERE

Style

Kinds of Flowers

OTHER RENTAL ITEMS

Aisle

The Many Ways to Incorporate Floral Arrangements

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Flowers showcase the beauty and pageantry of the natural world. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The earth laughs in flowers,” and Lady Bird Johnson is quoted as saying, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” Flowers are inextricably tied to some of the most important events in a person’s life. Flowers wish people well, console those who are mourning, and symbolize love and affection. Flowers are an essential component of wedding day celebrations. Flowers symbolize love, fertility and new beginnings. According to The Knot 2025 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of wedding flowers in 2025 was $2,723, which serves as a testament to how important flowers can be on these special days. Flowers are incorporated into many facets of a wedding. Couples planning their weddings can give thought to the many ways flowers can enhance this special day.

Bouquets

Wedding bouquets are some of the first arrangements people think of when planning a wedding. Historically, wedding bouquets contained herbs that were designed to ward off evil spirits. Today, one is much more likely to find a gathering of many beautiful flowers tied at the stems with ribbon. Bridesmaids carry bouquets as well, and flower girls toss flower petals along the aisle during the processional. Bouquets typically coordinate to the theme of the wedding and the color scheme. A bride’s bouquet tends to be similar in design to her bridesmaids’ but may feature more muted colored blooms to complement her gown.

Boutonnieres and corsages

Boutonnieres and corsages are customarily bestowed upon wedding party members and the parents of the happy couple. They also may be gifted to additional special people attending the wedding, such as grandparents or other guests of honor.

Altar arrangements

Floral decorations also may be placed around or near the altar for the wedding ceremony. Jewish celebrants may place flowers on a chuppah to add beauty and elegance. Flowers also are commonly used in Muslim wedding ceremonies, appearing in floral arches or even as a stunning floral wall during the Nikah to separate the bride and groom. During religious ceremonies, couples should heed the requirements of the house of worship and ensure that flowers are modest and within the parameters set for the faith.

Aisle decorations

Flowers may be used on the seatbacks or on the sides of pews. Small flowers, ribbons and greenery are hung to enhance the ambiance of the space.

Centerpieces

Flowers are a focal point during wedding receptions, taking up prime real estate in the center of tables. Knowledgeable florists can create pieces that are beautiful and will not obstruct the view or comfort of guests when seated. Additional floral arrangements may be included to enhance additional areas of the reception space, such as floral arches for photographs, vases placed near the seating chart and even flowers in the restrooms to make these spaces even more inviting.

Toss bouquet

If a couple decides to adhere to traditional wedding customs, the bride will toss a smaller bouquet to eager single women ready to catch it. A tossed bouquet may feature fresh flowers or artificial silk flowers. This decoy bouquet enables the bride to return home with her actual bouquet to preserve it, but still participate in this classic tradition.

Flowers enhance a wedding with their beauty, symbolism and aroma.

Simple Touches That Add An Elegant Feel to a Wedding

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

The term “the perfect wedding” can be somewhat misleading. Couples have their own ideas regarding the perfect wedding, and no single vision is more worthy of that characterization than another. Tradition plays a big role at many weddings, as couples have long embraced customs like the first dance, cutting the cake together and even tossing the bridal bouquet at the reception. Traditional weddings often are associated with elegance, and there are many ways to create an elegant aesthetic at a wedding.

• Consider candlelight. Candlelight can make any space feel cozy and warm. Lit candles also create a calming and elegant vibe at a wedding. A handful of thoughtfully placed candles around a ceremony space

can add a sense of elegance to a wedding. That vibe can be maintained into the reception when candles are placed on dining tables.

• Include some vintage items. Vintage items can add elegance because they call to mind traditional weddings of past eras. Unique vintage vases on seating tables or even as reception table centerpieces are simple to arrange and effective at adding an elegant touch.

• Choose a signature cocktail. The drinks guests enjoy at the reception also can add some elegance to the festivities. Ask the reception hall bartender to collaborate on a classic cocktail, ideally one that might have been popular years ago or even a modernized version of a drink that calls to mind ceremonies of yesteryear.

• Go traditional with wedding attire. More and more brides are choosing wedding gowns that go beyond the classic white dress. But brides who want something elegant may want to stick to traditional attire. The same goes for grooms, who can choose a traditional black tuxedo to add some simple elegance to the big day.

• Set your sights on seating. There’s no area of a wedding that can’t be augmented with a little elegance, and that even goes for seating. Chair sashes complement an elegant theme, and such simple decor is easy to pull off. It also provides instant appeal and a touch of class as guests enter the venue and take a seat.

An elegant wedding aesthetic makes for great photographs and adds a memorable vibe to a ceremony and reception.

How to Curate Your Reception Playlist

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

After a formal wedding ceremony, complete with processionals and “I dos,” comes the part of a wedding that enables the happy couple to brush off the last vestiges of jitters and celebrate. A wedding reception marks the culmination of months or even years of planning. Oftentimes a hundred guests or more gather to dine, dance and toast to the prosperity of the newlyweds.

Certain components of a reception will prove more memorable than others. Food is one such element. The other component that tends to make a lasting impression is the music, which means couples curating reception playlists should do so with care and consideration.

Deejays and live bands can help couples choose music that fits the mood. But couples also can consider these tips when curating their reception playlists.

• Calculate your needs. Couples may wonder just how many songs they need for a standard reception. Unless you’re working with extra-long songs, like “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” or “Bohemian Rhapsody,” most songs are around three minutes long. That means for a four-hour reception you’ll need roughly 80 songs. However, plan for moments such as speeches/toasts and other breaks.

• Pair songs with key elements. Traditional weddings have certain mini-events within the receptions. Music enhances these moments. Jot down ideas for the following components:

- Bridal party entrance

- Couples’ entrance

- First dance (wedding song)

- Mother/son, father/daughter dances

- Cake cutting song

- Garter/bouquet toss songs

- Spotlight dance

- Any other special element

• Select calm dinner music. After a day rushing around, most guests are looking forward to sitting down, conversing and, of course, eating. Cocktail hour and dinner music should be at a low volume and not too fast-paced. It certainly shouldn’t drown out conversation. Musician Peter Lee Johnson performs violin covers of popular Top 40 songs, and his music may be an option when choosing songs to accompany food service. Postmodern Jukebox is a group of musicians who take modern songs and give them a bygone flair. Their tunes also can be fitting.

• Tie the music to the theme. Weddings that follow a specific theme, such as a beach wedding, can be enhanced by music that coordinates to that theme. Think steel drum bands, Hawaiian stylings or even Beach Boys surfing songs.

• Be mindful of older guests. Some seniors may appreciate modern music, but they also may want to hear songs from the era when they were growing up. Pepper the song list with options across various decades to keep as many people on the dance floor as possible.

• Select a classic first dance song. Some couples opt to go trendy when selecting their wedding songs. However, certain songs have withstood the test of time. Such options include “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,” “Here and Now,” “Stand by Me,” “Amazed,” or “Just the Way You Are.”

These tips can help any couples put together a wedding reception playlist that will help to create a memorable celebration.

How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Dress

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Planning a wedding requires making many different decisions. The choice of wedding attire is among the most crucial decisions that couples must make. Whether the wedding is traditional or customized to suit couples’ personalities, brides and grooms want to look their best when they say, “I do.”

Many brides-to-be spend a significant amount of time looking for their ideal wedding dresses. What defines the right gown depends on personal preference and is unique to the person doing the search. For example, a dress that sets a fairy tale scene for one bride may not necessarily align with the tastes of another. According to Bridal Atelier, the average bride-to-be tries on try three to seven dresses before finding the right one. The following tips can help those shopping for dresses find a look that makes their big day even more special.

1. Don’t get hung up on perfection

Many brides get caught up as they search for the one dress they consider perfect. No dress is likely to check every box. Getting hung up on a desire to find a dress that has it all may make it hard to see the beauty in other dresses. Remember, with the talents of an experienced tailor or seamstress, most dresses can be tweaked to suit your vision of the ideal gown.

2. Consider the season

Getting married during the hazy and humid days of summer is an entirely different experience than tying the knot during the heart of winter. The fabric of the wedding dress should complement the season, whether it’s lightweight and breezy for a warm

day, or more substantial and cozy when darting to the ceremony in snowfall.

3. Flatter your figure

Chances are brides-to-be know which cuts and styles are most flattering. Mimic those style choices in the wedding dress. If you want to take focus off of full hips, choose a basque or asymmetrical waistline. Gowns with substantial straps or higher necklines may be better if you have a larger chest. Sheath and mermaid style gowns are options if you are confident with your figure and want to show off your curves.

4. Try a bit of this and that

Don’t go into a wedding dress appointment with firm parameters. Although you may have a ball gown style in mind, after trying on other options something with a less voluminous silhouette may actually catch your eye. Many brides also automatically defer to strapless gowns, when various straps and sleeves can be very appealing.

5. Arrive with a firm budget

Weddings can be costly. It’s important to set a budget for the wedding dress just as you will with other expenses. There are plenty of dress designers across a wide spectrum of price points. A willingness to consider and ultimately purchase a less costly dress can help you stay on budget.

Browsing through magazines and looking online can provide wedding dress inspiration as well. Also, when in doubt, defer to the experts at bridal shops who have experience choosing dresses that brides are inclined to love.

A Beginner’s Guide to Engagement Ring Shopping

Courtesy of Metro Creative Connection

Couples far and wide will tie the knot this year. Weddings join two lives together and often culminate with a lavish party that sees extended family and friends gather around tables enhanced by floral arrangements and delicious food. But long before guests can choose chicken or beef or newlyweds mail the final thank you note, couples must first take the initial step on the road to the wedding. That means getting engaged. Traditionally, engagements involve a sparkling gem that symbolizes love, fidelity and a whirlwind series of months poring over every possible wedding detail.

Shopping for an engagement ring is a unique experience. A ring requires a significant financial investment and serves as a lifelong symbol of commitment to another person. To navigate this sparkling world of diamonds and settings, shoppers can focus on key areas, notably budget, gem classification and finding a reputable jeweler.

Establish an engagement ring budget Those ready to pop the question need not adhere to the outdated “three months’

salary” rule when selecting an engagement ring. Instead, the ring should be chosen based on financial realism and means. The Knot’s 2024 Jewelry & Engagement Study indicates the average cost of an engagement ring in the United States comes in at approximately $5,200. However, many couples spend less, showing that a marriage need not start on shaky financial footing due to the cost of a ring. If cost is a factor, lab-grown diamonds often cost 50 percent or more less than natural diamonds, yet they are chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds. One also can consider another gemstone, particularly if diamonds are beyond a budget or seem too traditional. Know the four Cs

Diamond shopping involves mastering the Four Cs, which refers to Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight. A person should prioritize the cut above all else, and try to find a diamond in budget that has a cut that brings out the gem’s brilliance and fire. It can be challenging to distinguish a diamond’s color with the naked eye. Very often a nearcolorless G-J diamond can look identical to a colorless one (Grade D). Color grades increase up to Z, with the diamond being

more yellow/brown as the grading goes on. Clarity refers to tiny flaws (inclusions) in the diamond. A diamond that is Very Slightly Included will have inclusions not visible without magnification, making them a safe bet for saving money over those without any inclusions at all. Carat weight refers to the diamond’s weight and not its size. Diamonds just shy of the full- or half-carat mark tend to be less expensive but still look impressive. Choose a reputable seller

It’s best to choose a gem that has been graded by an independent laboratory like the Gemological Institute of America. Customers also should select a jeweler they trust, which may require some research and word-of-mouth recommendations. A knowledgeable jeweler also can make suggestions on setting and gem shape. Upon purchasing the engagement ring, one also might consider having it independently appraised for further purchase protection. An engagement ring purchase requires careful consideration and a significant investment. But once the stress of purchase wears away, the lasting memories of the engagement and wedding to come will make everything well worth it.

Questions to Ask When Vetting Wedding Officiants

Many things come to mind when couples are planning their wedding. Brides-to-be may envision walking down an aisle decked with beautiful flowers in a space populated with their closest loved ones, while grooms may anticipate the moment they first see their beloved in a beautiful gown. One person who will be there to witness it all may not garner too much of a couple’s planning energy, but officiants are nonetheless notable components of a couple’s big day.

Wedding officiants come from a variety of backgrounds. Many are representatives from a couple’s house of worship, such as a parish priest or the rabbi from their synagogue. Others are friends of the couple who get certified to officiate weddings just for the occasion. Many more are officiants couples meet for the first time in advance of their wedding. For those going that latter route, knowing what to ask when vetting an officiant can increase the chances of finding the right fit. No two couples are the same, so some of the following questions may not apply to every couple, but many can come in handy and help couples identify the right officiant to preside over their nuptials.

• How long have you been officiating?

• Are you a legally recognized officiant?

• What inspired you to become a wedding officiant?

• What is your fee?

• What is included in your fee?

• Do you ever book more than one wedding in a day?

• Can we write our own vows?

• Can you share remarks you’ve prepared at previous weddings you officiated?

• Can you share references from past couples whose weddings you officiated?

• What is the biggest challenge to arise during a ceremony you officiated and how did you handle it?

• Is it possible to customize our ceremony?

• Are you available on our wedding day?

• When do you typically arrive at a ceremony venue?

• What is your availability during the season we want to tie the knot?

• How far will you travel to officiate a wedding?

• How often do you meet with couples in advance of a wedding?

• How long is the average ceremony you officiate?

• Are you familiar with unity ceremonies?

• Are you available for the rehearsal?

• Do you perform religious ceremonies?

• Do you perform inter-faith ceremonies?

• What do you typically wear during a ceremony?

• Do you plan to stay for the reception?

• Do you have a backup officiant on call in case you cannot make it at the last minute?

• Do you have any specific requests of the couple?

Choice of officiant is a significant decision, and these are just some of the questions couples can ask when vetting prospective wedding officiants.

The Grandview of Ellington

The Grandview of Ellington is a gorgeous location perched on a hillside overlooking scenic farmland and rolling hills of Western New York, located in Ellington, NY, offering many stunning ceremony locations along with your choice of spacious event layout options. Our open floor plan works well for both small intimate affairs as well as large weddings or corporate events.

Our venue also offers a spacious kitchen for the caterer of your choice to prepare their menu for you and your special guests and our in-house bar service offers many bar packages to choose from.

The Grandview’s Facility Fee Covers:

Outdoor & Indoor Ceremony Sites with a Multitude of Layout Options

Air Conditioning/Heat in the Main Hall • Propane Heaters for Covered Pavilion

Use of our Tall Cocktail, Round, and Rectangular Tables

Black Cushioned Reception Chairs • Prearrangement of All Tables & Chairs

No Additional Facility Fee for Rehearsal or Rehearsal Dinner on Site

Full Kitchen • Private Bridal Preparation Area

Parking Attendants • Lit Parking Lot • Off Street Parking

Early Entry on Wednesday to Begin Decorating

Access to the Grandview Until 10AM the morning following Your Wedding to Remove Personal Belongings.

We Take Care of the Garbage, Recyclables, and Cleaning of the Grandview.

We also offer additional items and services for a reasonable rental fee (Dishware, Flatware, Decorations).

When you tour our venue, we have a packet of information we will give you that explains everything in more detail. If you would like an appointment to tour our venue located at 1116 W Hill Rd, Ellington, NY, please contact Deven Payne by phone at 716-4897615 or email him at dpayner505@gmail.com.

Wedding & EventServices

CATERER

3 C’s Catering 716-267-4403 www.3CsCatering.com

Weidner's BBQ & Catering (716) 992-4362 www.wnybbq.com

The White Inn 52 E. Main Street, Fredonia, NY 716-672-2103 www.thewhiteinn.com

The Catering Company Krista Campano Serving all of WNY 716-485-3114 www.thecateringcompanywny.com

Where Nature and Elegance Meet

The Roger Tory Peterson Institute offers romantic, elegant celebrations in a scenic, natural setting. The open-air courtyard can comfortably accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale receptions up to 150 guests. Our venue offers couples a truly unique space that combines world-class art, charming architecture, and the natural beauty of Western New York.

For bookings, walkthroughs, and all other event information, please contact Programs and Events Manager, Claire Johnson: cjohnson@rtpi.org

Wedding & EventServices

HOTEL

The White Inn

52 E. Main Street, Fredonia, NY 716-672-2103 www.thewhiteinn.com

LIQUOR/WINE STORE

Evans Wines & Liquor 986 Fairmount Ave., Jamestown NY 716-488-2009 www.evanswinesandliquors.com

O’Malia’s Liquor

1170 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY 716-363-2206

https://www.facebook.com/p/OMalias-Liquor-61574666741743

Superior Wine & Spirits

0376 Bennett Rd Suite 100, Fredonia, NY 14063 716- 672-2250

https://www.facebook.com/p/Superior-Wine-Spirits-61579388036615

RENTALS

Frantz & Russel Portable Toilet Rentals 1428 Foote Ave., Jamestown NY 716-483-3434 www.frantzrussel.com

Jamestown Awning & Party Tents 313 Steele St., Jamestown NY 716-483-1435 www.jamestownawning.com

TRAVEL

Thru The Grapevine Travel 11487 Walnut Road, Silver Creek, NY 716-934-2518

www.thruthegrapevinetravel.com

Wedding & EventServices

VENUE

3 C's Banquet Hall 2001 E Main St, Falconer, NY Reserve Your Event: 716-267-4403

Allen Park Men’s Club Norby Road Jamestown NY 716-664-2893 * 716-969-9468

Camp Onyahsa 716-664-2802 Ext. 238 office@onyahsa.org www.onyahsa.org

Gowanda Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #1382 201 Aldrich Street, Gowanda, NY 716-532-4882 www.facebook.com/lodge1382

Built in 1872, our elegant mansion, located in the heart of Warren’s historic district, is the perfect venue for your wedding day. We offer a grand ballroom that seats up to 175, and rentals include tables and chairs, full use of our professional kitchen, dinnerware, serving ware, decorations, and linen napkins. Table linen rental is also available. The ballroom, which is accessible from our large parking lot, boasts a full stage and bar area. Our ADA compliant building is fully air conditioned, and we have an elevator to the second floor. For more intimate gatherings, we also have a beautiful dining room, and two Victorian parlors downstairs, and a large parlor featuring two grand pianos upstairs. Call to book your event today!

The Woman’s Club of Warren The Historic Waters Mansion (814) 723-5910 310 Market Street • Warren, PA 16365 womansclubwarren@gmail.com warrenwomansclub.org

Lawson Center Boat Museum 73 Lakeside Drive Bemus Point, NY 716-499-2548 www.thelawsoncenter.org

Roger Tory Peterson Institute 311 Curtis St., Jamestown NY 716-665-2473 www.rtpi.org to the dress

Wedding & EventServices

VENUE

Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino 777 Seneca Allegany Boulevard, Salamanca, NY 716-244-5204 www.SenecaAlleganyCasino.com

South Dayton Volunteer Fire Co 34 Maple Street, South Dayton, NY 716-474-9850 www.facebook.com/southdayton.firedepartment

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center 9 Church St., Fredonia, NY 716-679-0891, ext. 4 https://fredopera.org

The Barn at Farrington Hollow 7495 Farrington Hollow Rd Cherry Creek NY 14723 Office: 716-257-7002 Cell: 716-680-4017 Email: inquiries@farringtonhollow.com www.farringtonhollow.com

The Grandview of Ellington 1118 West Hill, Ellington, NY 716-489-7615 www.facebook.com/TheGrandviewOfEllington

The Red House 91 Frisbee Road, Cassadaga, NY (716) 595-2450 www.the-red-house.org

The White Inn 52 E. Main Street, Fredonia, NY 716-672-2103 www.thewhiteinn.com

Whittier Apple Farm 1507 Blockville-Watts Flats Road, Ashville, NY 716-640-4174 www.WhittierAppleFarm.com