When I became a bride to be, I knew exactly what I needed to get organized, educated and ready for the big day.
First, a planner is a must. Not only is it a great tool for bringing to light important details that could be missed but it helps a bride to stay on track and organized. I tried to make my own with a simple blank binder and printed out forms, but found I was missing this or that and using a lot of printer ink and paper. So I began the hunt for one that fit my needs and eventually found the perfect fit.







Photography: Hands-Down Photography & Imaging freddyphotog@bresnan.net.
Videography: We neglected to hire someone to do this, really didn't see it being all that important. WRONG! We brought our video camera and enlisted Matty's father to film our special day. We watch the video every year on our anniversary. However there were a lot of important moments that were not captured. I do not recommend skimping on this key category nor requesting one of your guests to give up their free time to do this. Lesson learned. But we thank you, Ryan, for capturing one of the most important pieces of our wedding memorabilia.
Stationary: Vista Print
Reception Decor: Save On Crafts
Music: Our wonderful and talented friend, Tom, was our DJ. However, to make it easier on him, Matty and I put together several CDs of our chosen ceremony music and our favorites for our reception.
Venue: Margrit, the owner of Swan River Inn really knows her stuff. She is very experienced, thorough and organized - all the important bits needed for planning such a large event. She made our day her number one priority, and her staff were helpful and very friendly to our guests.
** I would like to share a piece of advice, don't waste your time or money on a ton of magazines and books while planing your wedding. Off Beat Bride, Tafffeta-Free Alternatives for Independent Brides by Ariel Meadow Stallings was by far my favorite book. And I had purchased and read quite a few "wedding" books. The author now has a website and an current and fun FB page. However I would still recommend reading her book. It gave me the validation I needed to ax the cookie cutter type wedding most expected and do whatever my heart desired without feeling guilty or weird about it. I also found Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine to be a brilliant source for ideas and inspiration.
Click here for our wedding blog, ... a little birdie told them they were meant to be.
Content by: Agent J