Wedding specials

For all of you out there just engaged over the holidays, congratulations! I know you have a lot to do to plan that special day {I've been there!} and things pile up fast. Invitations, venue, music, cake, THE DRESS, hair, makeup, jewelry, ceremony and on and on and on....

I have a few tips:

*NOTHING is as important as looking into your partner's eyes at "that moment"
*Something will always go wrong. Don't sweat it. No one will remember that little snafu
     anyway.
*Set a budget and stick to it. Things balloon as time gets nearer.
*Skip the "Big Name" bridal shops. Opt for the bridal outlets...same dresses at 30% below
     the big-name stores. {Yes, they have bridesmaid dresses too!}
*Buying a suit is about the same cost as renting a tuxedo. I recommend Knight's Chamber
     in the Crossroads Mall in Waite Park/Saint Cloud. Tell them its a wedding party and
     save. We got fresh fashions for a whopping $125 {including shirt, tie, and alterations}
     per groomsman. And they own it for future occasions.
*An off-season {Nov-March} or off-peak day {Any day other than Saturdays and holidays}
     is 10-15% cheaper {10% off of that $3000 venue=$300! Enough to hire a pro makeup
     artist like Brett Dorrian or get fantastic wedding jewelry from JealousCat}
*Time flies by! Seriously, a full day goes by in just hours!
*Don't be afraid to barter. Not all venues or vendors will accommodate fitting your budget,
     but most will have some "wiggle room".
*Cut costs by offering handmade favors. My favorite? Get some pretty envelopes and put
     some flower seeds inside{just a mix or hearty plants like marigolds or zinnias}. You
     can print labels {or directly onto the envelopes prior to filling} with sayings like "Grow
     in love with the Mr. & Mrs.", "Love Garden Seeds" etc.
*See if the church you are getting married in has a kitchen. Most times you can also use
     this space for your dinner {and decorate it for your needs} for no additional fees.
*Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! {That means water...at least until AFTER the ceremony}
*Outdoor tents are expensive! Opt for a park with a shelter. Check out the MN DNR park
     list here. {Most glass bottles are prohibited, check with park management for specifics}
*Keep a checklist of your goals and set a time line to accomplish them.
*Most guys don't think the world will end if you choose the wrong shade of white {ivory,
    eggshell, pearl, etc.} so don't stress out if he doesn't answer.
*Guys DO have an opinion, so ASK THEM!!!

There's a bit of the list. If you have any suggestions/comments, please feel free to leave feedback on the blog or email emily@emmephotodesign.com.