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How to plan a Richmond Wedding
So, you’re getting married! Congratulations! You have so much
to do before the big day. We hope this issue of Bliss will help
you with your planning and ensure you have a wedding day
that dreams are made of!
According to Shirley Copeland, author of “Be Your Own Wedding
Consultant”, the very
first steps to planning your wedding (even before
you set the date) are to decide the level of formality you desire, the size of
your bridal party and the size of your guest list. These decisions will have a
big effect on your budget. For example, a formal evening wedding with a
dinner reception and open bar is more expensive than a morning or early
afternoon wedding and luncheon reception. Saturday is a premium day for
weddings, so other days of the week are usually less expensive. The bridal
party may be responsible for their own attire, but you will provide the
bouquets, gifts, and meals at the rehearsal and reception. The size of your
guest list determines not only food and beverage, but the cake, number
of invitations, postage, programs, place cards, table linens, center pieces,
favors, etc.
Carefully think through all details and establish a firm budget. Then,
with that budget in hand, start shopping for your wedding services as soon
a possible. Weddings take a tremendous amount of time to plan so allow
enough time to explore every option. The earlier you begin, the larger the
selection of services available. Bridal Shows are a good place to start, with
an array of wedding vendors under one roof, allowing you the opportunity
to meet them personally, view their work and compare prices. Since
your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, surrounding
yourself with well-established wedding professionals assures your day will
run smoothly.
Your first contact should be the church or ceremony location. Determine if your selected date is available. Meet with the minister or person
who will perform your ceremony to discuss your plans and wishes and
their rules and regulations, which may include counseling sessions. You
should not pursue other wedding related services until the wedding date
and time has been confirmed by your church or ceremony location. If you
are considering an outside ceremony, wind, rain and heat can play havoc
with the best of plans, so you’ll want to have an alternate plan, just in case.
The next services to contact are those who can accommodate only
one wedding per day. For example, a florist can make several bouquets
for several weddings, but a photographer usually photographs only one
wedding, therefore making this service a priority. Meet with at least two
wedding vendors for each service you require, inform them of your budget
limitations and your wishes and make sure to ask for referrals. Reputable wedding professionals take pride in every wedding they are associated
with and will gladly provide names of previous clients. Failure to conduct
a thorough check can be the difference between a perfect day and a day
filled with disappointment.
The suggested order to secure wedding services is as follows: ceremony
location, reception location, photographer and videographer, ceremony
and reception music, wedding gown and bridesmaids dresses, wedding
cake, florist, transportation, groom and groomsmen’s attire, and invitations
and stationery. Don’t forget the honeymoon!
Never rely on verbal agreements with wedding vendors. For the sake
of all parties involved, everything must be in writing. Before signing any
contract, read it carefully, and if anything is unclear, ask questions. It’s
imperative to fully understand what you have contracted for. If overtime is
a possibility, establish the fee up front, in order to avoid  surprises later.
Good luck and happy planning!
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First Impressions:
You’ll want to start thinking about the stationery for your
wedding – Save the Dates, Programs, Menu Cards, Thank You Notes, and of
course, the Invitation – 8-12 months prior to your wedding date. You’ll want to
choose stationery that makes a personal statement and fits your wedding style
and personality.
Save the Dates:
Magnets and photos are a very popular way to announce
your upcoming nuptials, as well as stickers that can be peeled off to place on a
calendar marking the date. These can be sent out as much as 6-12 months prior
to the wedding.
Current Trends:
80% of brides still select ivory or white paper and use a colored
accent for their invitation ink color or envelope liner. Current popular accent
colors are mocha and navy and other shades of browns and blues. Today’s
trend is to use an ornate script typestyle for the couple’s names and a block typestyle for the invitation body copy. Paper quality will be one of your
largest budget factors - the heavier or thicker the paper the more substantial the statement. There are many green/environmentally-friendly options
available today, as well.
Remember:
Always order 25 extra of each stationery item when you place your initial order because you will spend more per piece for smaller
quantities later. Also, make sure to order extra envelopes, to allow for mistakes when addressing the invitation envelopes.
Flowers for every season
 Flowers are a long time tradition at weddings and can account for as much as 10-15% of your wedding budget. The flowers you choose may
decorate your ceremony and reception, as well as be worn in the men’s lapels and carried as bouquets by the women in your wedding party.
Though you may not need to order your flowers until a few months before your wedding, you should start looking and book a florist as early as one year in advance. It is important to schedule one-on-ones with three or more florists. This will allow you to compare prices, request references,
and find a florist that fits your personality, style, and budget. Before meeting with any florists, have an idea of your wedding colors, the shape and
size you will need for bouquets and centerpieces, the quantity of each, and your budget.
The easiest way to save money when picking your wedding flowers is to choose flowers that are in season at the time of your wedding. Not
only is it more cost effective but your flowers are also much more likely to be available and fresh when you chose in-season flowers. Talk to your
florist about other money saving options like reusing bouquets or wedding ceremony flowers as table decorations at the reception or using silk flowers
in some of your arrangements. Your florist is an expert and can make the best recommendations.
Capturing Your Special Day
Whether the wedding is a beachfront soiree or a black-tie affair, every couple wants their wedding photography to be picture perfect. Today, there are countless ways to capture your special day in pictures. Here are some of the current trends in wedding photography:
 Digital Photography: Thanks to digital cameras, the days of flashcubes and dark rooms have given way to higher quality pictures that are less expensive and faster to produce. Photographers can snap unlimited shots without having to reload film or intrude on the moment, and within weeks, pictures can be posted online for easy
viewing. Friends and family of the couple can then browse through the photos and order prints of their favorites. Digital pictures are easy to store on a DVD or computer and can be printed over and over again.
Photojournalism: Many photographers now offer a “photojournalistic” style of photography, where the day is recorded just the way it happens, and the photographs tell the wedding story. There is less posing or taking time away from the fun... just natural, artistic, and beautiful photos that capture the events and emotions of the day. Many photographers will take the family and group shots before or after the ceremony so everyone can get on with the day and not miss out on the fun.
Fashion Approach: Some couples are opting to have wedding photography taken in a style inspired by the pages of high-end fashion magazines. This type of wedding photography plays up the glamour and romance of the day. Images of the bride and groom are shot in an artistic manner and later edited to get a high fashion, celebrity look.
Black and White Photography: Many modern couples are requesting to have their weddings photographed solely or partially in black and white, which has a very classic, timeless, and artistic feel, and doesn’t fade as fast as color photographs. Black and white lends itself well to the photojournalistic style, but it’s always nice to have a combination of both color and black and white.
Tips for Choosing a Photographer
• Interview two or three photographers to find
the one that best meets your needs.
• Make sure you know exactly what fees you
will be charged and for what services.
• What is the deposit amount and payment
schedule and when are they due?
• Ask for references, talk to the photographer’s
previous clients and view entire albums.
• Make sure he/she will be the one who is
actually photographing the wedding.
• Does the photographer work with an assistant?
If so, is that included in the fee?
• What type and how many cameras will be
used? Will there be back-up cameras?
• Is color and black-white photography included,
as well as touch-ups and effects?
• Can they create a customized package to fit
your needs and/or save money?
• How many photos are included and can you
expect formal, informal, or a mix?
• Can you specify certain people, locations, or
events to be photographed?
• Can reprints, enlargements and additional
albums be ordered?
• What is the time frame for delivery of proofs
and other products?
• Can you keep the proofs, negatives, or digital
files?
• Is there a website available to view your images
online?
• Make sure to obtain a written contract that
details every service to be provided, the type of
package, a list of guaranteed prices for add-ons
and any additional charges, like taxes or travel
fees. The contract should also specify what
happens if your photographer doesn’t show up,
as well as the cancellation/refund policy.
New Options in Video
Go Digital - Today’s video is all about high-resolution. DV is the most
affordable high-quality format that exists currently, while HD is up and
coming for a higher price tag.
Go Wireless - Small wireless microphones can be hidden discreetly
under the groom’s boutonniere or on the altar during the ceremony.
Some state-of-the-art recorders come equipped with mics built right
into them.
Go Angular - With the size of cameras downscaling, a whole new
world of opportunities opens up, with angles galore. Cameras can be
affixed unobtrusively to posts and other sturdy wedding-day fixtures for
unique photo opportunities.
Go Stylistic - You no longer have to decide which method of videography
suits your style: cinematic or documentary. Most videographers are
skilled in both approaches, leaving you with a collective end result.
Go Vintage - Provide your videographer with bits from the past, from
childhood home video footage to still photos from your fi rst date. Your
videographer can incorporate these memories into your video to help
tell the story of your lives together.
The Icing on the Cake
 The wedding cake is the unspoken centerpiece of the wedding reception, and whether it’s a
chocolate sensation or a more modest statement, all eyes will be on the cake. Here’s a list of the current
top 10 wedding cake trends:
Cupcakes and Mini Cakes - Creating a cupcake tier in lieu of a wedding cake has been a trend for
the last several years. As the cupcake frenzy continues, expect to see more of this trend. If you like
the idea of cupcakes but want something slightly different, consider full mini cakes.
Black and White With a Pop - Black-and-white cakes have been in the spotlight over the last few
years, but the current trend is to add a pop of color also. Whether it’s a flowered accent or other accents,
a burst of color will make a huge difference.
Scripted Text - One of this year’s hottest trends is calligraphy-style motifs and text on wedding
cakes. Your cake artist can create his own calligraphy, or you could ask about using the bride and
groom’s own handwriting.
Non-Round Layers - There’s no need for wedding cakes to always be round. A continuing trend is different shaped tiers, including square, hexagonal,
and mixed-shape cakes.
Metallic Accents - Another current trend in wedding cakes is the use of metallic colors. A white cake with gold trim showcases the cake in a
simple but classy way.
Monograms – Monogrammed cakes are all the rage. Some brides and grooms opt for one large letter, such as the fi rst letter of their last name,
while others accompany it with their first initials, too.
Bold Colors - If a white cake just won’t fi t your wedding, consider a bold colored cake with bright colored icing or designs. The past few years have
shown contemporary, bold designs taking center stage.
Chocolate - Chocolate cakes have traditionally been reserved for grooms’ cakes, however, cake designers are now doing elegant and beautiful
things with chocolate for wedding cakes too.
Lose the Flowers – A current trend in wedding cake decorating is replacing flowers with ribbons, bows, jewels, and edible pearls.
Ice Cream Cakes - A growing trend, especially for a less formal wedding, is to serve an ice-cream wedding cake. Depending on the size of your
event, you could order a small one and only bring it out at the end of the evening, or you could have a small non-ice-cream display cake, and serve
a sheet ice-cream cake.
Arriving in Style
 The transportation from your wedding ceremony to the reception or from the reception
to a hotel, airport, or honeymoon destination, is a very important, but often overlooked,
aspect of planning a wedding. We offer you several different options for wedding transportation,
from the traditional to the more unique.
Limousines - Many couples and wedding parties choose to rent a traditional, simple
limousine, however, stretch limos and sport utility limos are all the rage at the moment.
We’re told some newer models have bars, hot tubs, or even a dance floor!
Horse-drawn carriages - Imagine the two of you arriving at the wedding reception in a
peaceful, romantic, horse drawn carriage. You’ll feel like a part of a fairytale wedding!
Sports cars – If you like to really make a statement, an extravagant sports car is always
an admired mode of transportation from the wedding to the reception. Since most true sports cars only seat two passengers, this is an excellent way
for the couple to escape for a few moments of cherished, quiet time.
Trolleys – This is a great option for the entire wedding party to travel from the wedding ceremony to the reception location. Many trolleys can seat
20+ people and some even permit alcohol, allowing your wedding party to toast the bride and groom before they even arrive at the reception!
Bus service – Another unique way for the entire wedding party to arrive at the reception and get the party started immediately, following the wedding
ceremony, is on a chartered bus.
Motorcycles - More adventurous couples may choose to travel to and from the reception or leave the reception by “bike”, which is sure to draw
quite a bit of attention en route! The bride and groom may even be able to drive the motorcycle directly into the reception hall as they are introduced
to their guests!
Wedding Tunes
On your wedding day, nothing sets the mood, stirs the emotions,
or touches the heart more than music. From the beautiful sounds of
the ceremony, to the background melodies of cocktails and a sit-down
dinner, to the lively tunes that energize the reception dance fl oor, music
creates the mood for your special day.
Music for Your Ceremony - The first step in determining the
music for your ceremony is to consider what you want – string quartets,
pianists, soloist, or harpists for the ceremony? Take notice of the ceremony
music during any weddings you attend to determine what you
do and don’t like. Once you have some ideas in mind, seek out wedding
musicians by visiting bridal shows, reviewing local bridal publications
and online resources, asking for referrals from recently married friends
or family members, or working with a local talent or booking agent.
Once you’ve found some musical options, arrange to hear them play in
person.
Music For Cocktails and Dinner - The key element during cocktails
and dinner is conversation, so the music playing should set the mood,
but not intrude. You have several options: use the musician(s) that will
play during your ceremony, use the band that will be playing at your
reception, or hire different musicians for this part of the day.
Music for Your Reception - Nothing can make or break a wedding
celebration faster than the entertainment. A band or orchestra
provides an upbeat energy to the reception, and is a wonderful option
if your budget allows it. The key is to find a band that specifi cally does
weddings, so that they can offer the variety of music and/or musical
genre that fits your style to ensure a great event. A good, popular band
or orchestra is usually well worth the expense, since quality
entertainment is such a critical element of the wedding.
Communication is critical so clarify what songs and events
you do and don’t want included, the order of events, and
other details ahead of time. Make sure to ask for, and follow
up on, several references.
As with any wedding vendor, be sure that everything is
clear and in writing: the fees, start and end times, cost of
overtime, alternate plans if a musician is sick that day, etc.
If any of your musical vendors don’t use a contract, then
put all the details into a letter and copy it, sending one to
the vendor and keeping one in your files. Make sure to
confirm all the details with your musicians about a week
before the wedding to make sure everything is in order for
the big day.
Looking Your Best
 One of the best parts about being a bride-to-be is a bona fide excuse to indulge in a little pampering.
Not only does a relaxing massage or facial better equip you to handle bridal stresses, but a little
self nurturing can also ensure you look your best on the big day. Here are a few of the most common
pampering treatments available for brides to be:
Massage - The ultimate path to relaxation and tension relief, massage involves kneading the body’s
muscle and connective tissues through various methods. Perfect for the tense bride or groom and a
great gift for the wedding party.
Facial - This procedure treats the face to cleansing, toning, exfoliating, massaging, and moisturizing – all designed to reveal glowing skin. You’ll want to do this a week or two before the wedding in case
skin redness or irritation develops.
Body Treatments - Like a facial for the entire body, body treatments are designed to exfoliate, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin. Popular body
treatments for brides include: Body Scrubs, Body Wraps/Masks, Skin Exfoliation, and Body Waxing.
Manicure and Pedicure - One of the most common nail treatments for brides is a French manicure, where white tips are added to the fingernails
for a simple yet elegant look. Many brides also opt for a pedicure, especially if they will be wearing open toe shoes. Manicures and pedicures should
be scheduled 1-2 days prior to the wedding.
Bridal Hairstyle - Check with your hairdresser to see if he or she specializes in bridal hairstyles. If not, seek the services of a hairstylist that does.
Reserve the stylist and schedule initial hair appointments at least four to six months prior to the wedding. Schedule a trial run two weeks before
the wedding to allow for experimentation with different styles. Make sure to bring along your veil or headpiece for each session.
Bridal Makeup - Seek the services of a professional make-up artist who specializes in bridal make-up. Schedule a trial run session at least two
weeks prior to the wedding. Make-up will need to be touched up periodically during the wedding and reception so be sure to have the same makeup
on-hand that was used by the makeup artist.
A Ticket for Two
 Your honeymoon is the perfect cap to your wedding since it allows you to relax for the first time as
a married couple. Many couples greatly value the solitude of a honeymoon following the excitement
and hectic pace of planning a wedding.
The further in advance you plan your honeymoon, the greater your options. Keep a notebook
when planning your honeymoon - just like planning a wedding there are a lot of details to keep track
of. You may wish to plan your honeymoon yourself, or you might want to consider hiring a travel
agent, who is paid to take care of all those little details.
First decide the type of honeymoon you want and explore your options. Ask family and friends for
suggestions, look at travel magazines, watch travel programs, search the web, or contact a travel agency
for some preliminary research. Evaluate the pros and cons of each destination. Narrow your choices
down to two or three destinations. Compare the costs associated with each destination with your
wedding budget. You should have enough money to go to some restaurants, enjoy activities, and do
some shopping. You want your honeymoon to be fun and memorable - after all this is your first trip as
a married couple.
Once you’ve selected your final honeymoon destination, you’ll need to book it. This can be done
through a travel agent or using the Internet. The benefi t of using a travel agent is you’re entrusting
your honeymoon in the hands of a professional. Your travel agent can make recommendations for fabulous hotels, the best times to fly, transfers,
and local attractions. They can also provide information about the area so you’ll know what to expect and give you a detailed list of immunizations
or visas required for your honeymoon destination. Booking your honeymoon through an online travel service can save you money, but always be
cautious and make sure to use a reputable one. Always read the fine print and know your rights before booking.
Wherever you go, consider getting travel insurance which will protect you against the unexpected, including missed fl ights, lost reservations,
hurricanes, or illnesses. Some types of travel insurance will also cover the cost of replacing lost luggage and its contents.
Once you’re off to your honeymoon destination, make sure to relax and enjoy your special time alone as a newly married couple! You both
deserve it!
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