Bride: Brienne
Groom: Andy

Date: July 15, 2011
Location: Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, ME

Photographer: Joyce van Dijk, Alice Springs, Australia
Caterer: Stone Mountain Arts Center
Cake: Carol Belanger
Flowers: Dutch Bloemen Winkel, Jackson, NH
DJ: Matt Spofford
Videographer: Meg Simone Wedding Films, Intervale, NH
Wedding Planner: Jen Garnett

Remember, it may be your day but you are not the only one about to experience huge change. Everyone is wondering how and where he or she will fit in once you say, “I do.” Sometimes, your closest friends and family can become anxious and unsure during the planning stages of your wedding. Enter your own expectations and the cocktail for disaster has just been shaken, not stirred. Don’t despair though, with some heart-felt dialogue and one-on-one time, everyone can be back on track in no time.

Put it in Writing One of the most wonderful ways you could do this is to write each of your bridesmaids a simple letter—not a text message or Facebook message. Not even an email. Plan a night to sit down with a glass of wine, some beautiful stationary and pen a note to each, expressing why their friendship is so dear.  Include some shared moments from the past and how you envision them fitting into the future. Finishing it off with a wax stamp or beautiful ribbon will be sure to make this a treasured keepsake.

A Picture Says a Thousand Words Yes, there will be hundreds taken on your wedding day and many will include your bridesmaids but having a special session devoted to you and your maids would be a great way to have some laughs. It would also provide a fabulous opportunity for introductions of any friends or family that don’t know each other. Schedule a private portrait session with your photographer, head to a favorite location and have some fun. Hamming it up for the camera will make for great photos and good girl-time! Frame an enlargement from the session to make a heartfelt gift.

A Collective Ahhh…One of the most popular ways to show your appreciation of the commitment these ladies have made to you is to book some relaxation time at the spa. Scheduling a mani, pedi, facial and/or massage will be sure to hit everyone’s reset button. Some salons will even include brunch (did I hear Mimosa?) or lunch to make the day a true pampering event. Look for Groupons or special large-party discounts to make the day easier on your wallet.

Host an Under-Whelming Event Why not invite your posse over for some wine and whine?! Nothing unites a  group more than good gossip! Host a casual, low-key night with your bridesmaids, serve some appetizers, sit back and just chat. You may be pleasantly surprised how much bonding can occur when there are no expectations.

Just say Thank-You! As the hostess of the grandest event of your life, it is up to you to treat your guests and attendants with kindness, grace and reverence.  Although your bridesmaids are there to “attend” you, you have placed a big responsibility of time and money on their plate. Acknowledging that with appreciation and friendship will make your event planning a cherished time.

By Jodi Sammons Feil

The best way to cut wedding costs is to trim down your guest list. The reception is where you will spend the most money. There are tiers to your guest list, and if you can eliminate the periphery than you will save money. The first tier is  your immediate family and very close friends. Second tier is good friends, close family, close co-workers. The periphery are those who it would be nice to see, but….Like your boss from your first job, friend from 5th grade you haven’t seen in 10 years, your father’s Navy buddy who lives in Honolulu. All great people, don’t get me wrong.

If you’re working with a tight budget, it does not make sense to invite people who after your wedding you’ll never see, and then try to save money by playing your iPod instead of hiring a professional DJ. Your iPod won’t introduce you and your wedding party.

Unfortunately, when a photographer, caterer, or DJ bails on a wedding, it hurst the credibility of wedding professionals in general. The good ones spend years jumping through hoops trying to build a stellar reputation; their business depends on referrals. The lousy ones don’t last long anyway, but even in the short time they manage to do business, they can lower the trust worthiness of others in their field.

It’s no wonder couple’s spend an exorbitant amount of time researching vendors. Never having had to hire a videographer, band or chocolate fountain before, they scratch their heads wondering if the terms and rates they are given is fair. They want to make the right decision, after all.

The extra time and effort couple’s put into making sure they hire the best professionals will help insure that they won’t be stuck without a video that was supposed to capture all the special people and moments during the wedding day. Bride’s, don’t worry about asking too many questions, it’s in your rights. Vendors, keep providing the best service and you’ll set yourself apart from the rest.