Kenzie Amick 5/30/19 Kenzie Amick 5/30/19

How to Get Your Marriage License

Wedding planning should be a ton of fun but not all activities are created equal. Take getting the marriage license. Of course it certainly feels “real” when you hold that unsigned license in your hand, but let’s face it, filling out the paperwork necessary for your license is not as much fun as picking out flowers or your gown! So, with not much attention focused on this task, we thought it would be helpful to explain the process couples must take in order to make their marriage legal in the state of Minnesota.

Photographer: Kavella Wedding Photography

To obtain your marriage license you must appear in person at the county clerk’s office, either by an appointment or a walk-in. To save time, we suggest filling out the paperwork online (using this link for Ramsey County or this link for Hennepin County) and scheduling an appointment. Both partners must be present and are required to show proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, but if one of the parties can’t appear, a supplemental form will be given to the partner who is there to be completed by the partner who is not. Assuming both partners are present, the marriage license is given to you at the appointment.
The marriage license fee is $40.00 with proof of Premarital Education completed and $115.00 without Premarital Education. The fee must be paid at the time you apply for the license.
The next step will take place on the day of your wedding. To make the marriage license complete, both partners, the officiant, and two witnesses must sign it.
Lastly, it’s the officiant’s job to send in the completed marriage license to the county clerk, within five days of the wedding. Once that’s done, an official marriage record is mailed to the couple and the marriage is deemed official.

There are a couple of things to make note of. First, you may apply for a marriage license in any county in Minnesota, regardless of where you live or where the marriage is taking place, as long as the wedding will take place within Minnesota. Simply complete the form for the county in which you plan to make your appointment. Secondly, no longer is there a five day waiting period, though I wouldn’t push this to the last minute in case there are issues that arise! Previous marriages and legal troubles may complicate things as additional documentation is required. Your marriage license is valid for 6 months so this is certainly an easy to-do item to knock off the list months before the wedding.

Kenzie Amick 5/10/19 Kenzie Amick 5/10/19

Responsibilities of the Bridesmaids

Being asked to be someone’s bridesmaid is a huge honor. Whether it be you sister or your elementary school bestie, there is something so special about being able to stand next to your girl while she says, “I do.” With that being said, there are a handful of unspoken responsibilities and expectations that come along with this role. Below are 5 ways you should expect to help your bride while leading up to her wedding day, to ensure you are as helpful and supportive as you can be.

1. Be emotionally supportive.

During the months leading up to their big day, most brides are often very overwhelmed with a range of emotions. It’s important that you are there to listen to her rant or to dry her tears, or whatever it is that she may need. If you aren’t in love with the bridesmaid dress or you have contrary opinions on a subject, be a sweetheart and keep your thoughts to yourself.

2. Assist in pre-wedding tasks.

Whether it be giving your opinion on linen colors or stuffing invitations, the smallest task can go a long way and it will make her life easier.

3. Help plan and attend pre-wedding events.

The bachelorette party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner and a number of other events are all things you should offer to help with and to try your best to attend.

4. Be prepared to pay.

Between gifts, expenses and travel, the average women spends nearly $1000 to be in a wedding. If you aren’t prepared to lay out that kind of cash, it is better to kindly decline the invitation than to go along begrudgingly or to put yourself in a tougher financial situation. If you accept, then you accept the expense that goes along with it.

Photographer: Melissa Oholendt Photography

5. Be on-hand and helpful on the wedding day.

Just in case anything goes wrong or the bride needs assistance, make sure to be ready to jump in and help with a variety of tasks throughout the entire wedding day.

Kenzie Amick 5/3/19 Kenzie Amick 5/3/19

Annie & Tony // Interlachen Country Club

Annie & Tony’s sweet love story begins with the power of technology. After the two met online, their first date was at Borough in the North Loop. Their relationship progressed, and it’s no wonder! Annie is such a lovely person and Tony has such a calming presence. After dating 3.5 years, which included the true test of buying both a home and a dog together, the couple married. Their stunning winter wedding took place just a few days before Christmas. Mother Nature even provided the couple with a magical dusting of snow, which made for a gorgeous white backdrop in photos. Surrounded by elegant candles, luscious florals, and gorgeous gold accents, the decor was beyond romantic. The evening consisted of the sweetest speeches, tasty food, and entertainment from the most incredible Minneapolis band, Northstar.

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Kenzie Amick 3/14/19 Kenzie Amick 3/14/19

Kate & Heather // Bar Lurcat

Kate and Heather’s love story begins with the power of technology. The two connected through an online dating website and the rest is history. Kate formed an immediate bond with Heather’s kids and their relationship became incredibly close. It didn’t take them long to realize that Kate and Heather were meant to be together, which led Kate to move to Rochester. Eventually the two were engaged.

Kate and Heather’s wedding took place on a cold, yet stunning, December evening. Kate and Heather wanted to be married in the darkness of a cool winter night with snow lightly falling. In place of snow, they had bitter cold but that didn’t stop them. It was intimate and magical! The warm copper and navy palette with pops of white floral created a warm atmosphere for guests to return to after the chilly ceremony. Having a foodie, multi-course menu for their guests was something the two wanted to incorporate into their special day and Bar Lurcat was the perfect choice. Crab Cakes, Yellowtail Carpaccio, Steak Tartare and Fois Gras Mousse were followed by a five course meal and extensive dessert display, including passed mini donuts. Sliders and fries capped the evening. Throughout the evening, guests were entertained by the very talented Dan Rodriguez. After being introduced to Dan and booking him for their wedding, Kate and Heather quickly became fans and have since attended a number of his concerts.

We have planned three Hurley family weddings, with Kate being the last. Their family has been an absolute joy to work with throughout the years and I will miss them all!

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Kenzie Amick 1/16/19 Kenzie Amick 1/16/19

Engagement Ring 101

With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching and love in the air, we thought this would be the perfect time to teach you all there is to know about engagement rings. From diamond cuts to ring styles, we’ve got it covered. (After all, we don’t want any confusion when communicating what you want to that special someone!) Share this blog with your guy and tell him it’s time to ditch the teddy bear and box of chocolates and go big this Valentine’s Day!

Diamond Shapes

1. The Round Brilliant Cut

Starting with the most popular shape, the Round Brilliant diamond has been used in rings for hundreds of years, making it a truly ageless choice.

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2. The Princess Cut

Available in both square and rectangular shapes, the Princess Cut is the second most popular diamond shape. Notice the corners are square and not clipped. The color that the Princess Cut projects is very unique compared to other shapes.

3. The Marquise Cut

Looking for a more unique yet gorgeous shape? The Marquise Cut is the perfect shape for maximizing carat weight since it is a shallower cut. Because of the unique shape it holds, it creates the effect of longer, more slender hands and fingers.

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4. The Emerald Cut

The Emerald Cut diamond is unique because it showcases the diamond’s original clarity beautifully because of its large rectangular shape and beveled facets. This shape also makes inclusions and color more apparent (not a good thing!)

5. The Cushion Cut

Because of its pillow-like shape, The Cushion Cut is another timeless look. With rounded corners and large facets, this particular shape often appears more brilliant and clearer.

6. The Radiant Cut

Another more unique shape, the Radiant Cut combines the lines of an Emerald Cut with the brilliance of a round diamond.

7. The Oval Cut

A classic look making a resurgence, the Oval Cut is another one of the more popular cuts of diamonds. Similar to the Marquise Cut, this shape makes the fingers and hands of the wearer appear longer and more slender.

8. The Pear-Shaped Cut

Soft and delicate, the Pear-Shaped cut has a teardrop-like style that is absolutely gorgeous. This shape combines round and marquise cuts, making for a brilliant look.

9. The Asscher Cut

Often mistaken for an emerald cut because of their similar shapes and facets, the Asscher Cut is clipped in the corners.

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10. The Trilliant Cut

Another unique shape, the Trilliant Cut is a triangular shaped stone that offers a number of variations, including the shape of the top surface and sides.

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Ring Styles

Once you have your preferred diamond shape in mind, it’s time to consider how you would like it set. Whether you prefer a modern setting or you embrace unique or vintage styles, there is sure to be a look for everyone.

1. The Solitaire

Most jewel experts consider the Solitaire ring to be the “Classic” engagement ring. The ring centers its focus on the chosen stone, set on either a three, four, or six prong setting.

2. The Cluster

The Cluster ring stands apart from others because of the number of stones used in the piece. Where the Solitaire style places its focus on the center stone, the Cluster uses many smaller stones to form a cluster look.

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3. The Three-Stone

The Three-Stone look features a larger center stone with one smaller stone on each side. Initially created as an anniversary style to represent past, present and future, it is gaining in popularity as an engagement style as well.

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4. The Halo

Due to the large amount of gemstones needed to produce this style of ring, The Halo is one of the most difficult rings to make. With a center stone surrounded by a halo of smaller stones, the ring has a gorgeous shine to it. This style accentuates the center stone, making it appear larger.

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5. The Double-Halo

Giving the classic Halo ring a modern twist, the Double-Halo features two rows of small diamonds that frame the center stone.

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6. The Pavé

This style of an engagement ring was created with maximum brilliance and light in mind. It uses tiny gemstones placed so tightly together to form an illusion that there is no setting holding them in place. Coming from the French word for “paved,” these engagement rings look as if their surfaces have been paved with diamonds, creating a glittering, unbroken expanse of light and sparkle.

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7. The Bezel

A striking modern look, the Bezel ring uses a type of elevated collar which wraps the rim of the diamond in a complete metal edging.

8. The Split Shank

The Split Shank engagement ring is another unique choice, where the band splits near the diamond. This often creates the illusion of two bands rather than one.

10. The Channel Setting

Unlike a pave ring where each side diamond is individually set, this style features diamonds set in a channel forming a line around the band.

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11. The Tension Ring

With the center stone being supported not by prongs but rather by pressure, the Tension ring has a unique and modern look to it.

12. The Twist Ring

Symbolizing endless love and commitment, this beautiful ring showcases intertwined bands with the main focus being on the center stone.

Kenzie Amick 10/4/18 Kenzie Amick 10/4/18

Wedding Planning 101: Venue

We’re back with more wedding planning tips and this week it’s all about location! The venue is where all the magic happens, so it’s important this step doesn’t get overlooked. If you are following our advice, then you have already established your wedding-day vision, right? Whether you’re going for a glamorous chic soiree, a trendy and modern celebration, or a bright and organic outdoor wedding, we encourage couples to pick a space that is consistent with their overall look. If you haven’t defined the vision yet, then you’re not ready to pick a venue!

Not only should the venue fit in with the style of the overall wedding, but it should also be budget-friendly. {Still a little stressed out about the budget? Don’t fret. Before reading on, take a peek at our Wedding Planning 101 blog on budgets!}

The most important thing to do when touring venues is ask the right questions. Aside from the basic “What is the room rental and food and beverage minimum?” type of questions, there are many things couples forget to ask that are crucial to nailing down your perfect venue.

Capacity is often a confusing and overstated number. When a venue quotes capacities, think no dance floor, no bar set-ups and tables so tight you need to turn sideways to get through! Ask for sample floor layouts to really see whether your wedding will “fit” within the space.

We also encourage couples to ask for a sample BEO, or “Banquet Event Order,” which itemizes every little cost that a couple would need to pay. This is a definite must before signing your name on the dotted line! Don’t forget to ask about extra charges that can add to the overall cost. Here are some examples of questions you should be sure to ask: Are there additional charges for auxiliary room rentals? Does your venue charge extra for tables, linens, chairs, lighting or lounge furniture? What about AV equipment? Is there a bartender fee or bar set-up fee associated with the venue? Do you need to rent a dance floor? What is the parking situation for your guests? Is security required? After all, nobody likes those last-minute surprises {and neither does your bank account!}

There you have it. Now, go schedule some venue tours and blow this one out of the park! Stay tuned for our next Wedding Planning 101 post on catering!

Kenzie Amick 9/7/18 Kenzie Amick 9/7/18

Abstract Hanging Installations

Hanging installations are the perfect focal point of any wedding. While most couples chose to laden their with greenery and florals, we’ve compiled an abundance of inspiration for using unique alternatives such as wheels, lights, tassels, acrylics, geodes and more.

No wedding design is complete without a focal point, and our favorite focal points are hanging installations because they easily capture everyone's eye and bring the ceiling down. While we must admit that many hanging installations that are laden with florals and greenery are beyond breathtaking, we have also been thinking it's about time for some fresh installation inspiration {plus, florals and greenery can be pretty expensive}. There are so many fabrics, textures, mediums and shapes that are eye-catching, so get creative and hang them where everyone can see! Be sure that the scale fits the space and that the looks speaks to you as a couple. Below you'll see that we've found a variety of objects to suspend from the ceiling, including wheels, lights, tassels, acrylics and even geodes! Hang these gorgeous items above your head table, your cocktail and lounge space, or have them frame your ceremony {then repurpose as a sweetheart table backdrop.} For more inspiration check out our {h a n g i n g i n s t a l l a t i o n} Pinterest Board!

Kenzie Amick 8/31/18 Kenzie Amick 8/31/18

State Fair Themed Late Night Snacks

There's a reason why The Great Minnesota Get-Together is one of the biggest and best fairs. Of course there's the people watching, carnival rides, and ice cold beer, but we all know it's the food that brings everything and everyone together. You can find anything from bacon-wrapped olives stuffed with cream cheese to pizza on a stick and, quite honestly, we think it's the perfect place to find inspiration for late night wedding snacks. State Fair themed snacks are truly the best way into your guests hearts after they've been dancing the night away. Some treats that we think are perfect for any celebration are mini donuts, cotton candy, corn dogs, s'mores and popcorn. In addition to these fan favorites, don't be afraid to be a little adventurous and serve a few unexpected options liked fried pickles, poutine, or anything on-a-stick! Caterers are generally very flexible and willing to get creative. Or, hire an outside late night snack provider if allowed. Create some cute signage and your State Fair themed late night snack table will become the perfect way to wrap up your special day.

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Photo Credit {Left to Right, Top to Bottom}: Girl Versus Dough | Huffington Post | The Hunger Diaries | Paper & Stitch | Style-Architects Weddings & Events | Huffington Post | The Hunger Diaries | The Hunger Diaries | Cooks with Cocktails

Kenzie Amick 5/18/18 Kenzie Amick 5/18/18

The Machine Shop // Heidi & Dan

Heidi and Dan met at work in the spring of 2016. An instant friendship was formed when they realized their mutual passion for music and live shows. After going to a few shows together they started dating. Dan and Heidi have gone to over forty shows together, traveling from Miami to Chicago just to see a few favorites. First Avenue is their favorite venue by far, which is why Dan's proposal was unbeatable. He was able to secure a private tour of the venue with one of First Avenue's favorite photographers and, when Heidi walked up on the First Avenue stage, the spotlights came on and her favorite record started playing as Dan got down on one knee.

With a story like that it is no wonder that sharing their love of music on their big day was extremely important to them. Their save the dates were created to look like mini LP records. In lieu of a traditional guest book, the couple had guests sign records {which have since been framed and are hanging in their home.} Even a custom photo booth backdrop was created to mimic the iconic First Avenue wall, but instead featured their favorite bands as the stars {with fatheads of favorite artists so they could join in on the fun.}. Their good friend and groomsman Michael Shynes, a local career guitarist, supplied the cocktail music and, of course, they picked the best dance band around and accented them with violinists who played with the band all night. Even the cake displayed Prince's "Adore" lyric, "Until the end of time I'll be there for you. You own my heart and mind. I truly adore you."

Decor was incredibly important as well on their special day. There was greenery, gorgeous white florals and chandeliers suspended from the ceiling to create a secret garden feeling. The wooden head table with mirror inlays was softened with a silk chiffon pale grey runner and was placed just underneath the hanging florals which beautifully reflected the florals above and the candlelight that sat on the table. The entire room looked like an enchanted garden.

On a personal note, this is my third wedding with this family and I'm sad to say they are now all married off. I'm hoping there will be some elaborate kid birthday parties to plan in the future! Best wishes to Heidi and Dan!

If you want to see more of this wedding, check out their gallery!

Kenzie Amick 5/15/18 Kenzie Amick 5/15/18

Pinspiration // Bouquets

With the long awaited summer season right around the corner, it’s time to stop and smell the roses - literally. Whether you’re a modern minimalist who appreciates the simple look of greenery & white, a hopeless romantic with an eye for soft, blush tones, or a fun loving, bold color enthusiast, floral bouquets are the perfect way to incorporate your unique style on your special day.

Head over to our Bouquet Pinterest Board for even more inspiration!

Credits {Top to Bottom, Left to Right}: Wedding Guides | Wedding Flowers | Pinterest | Ashley Fox Designs | Ashley Fox Designs | Jeremy Chou | A&Be Bridal Shop | Ruffled Blog | Munster Rose and Kavella Wedding Photography | Engaged | Wedding Guides | Nouba | Pinterest | Lily Paloma | Wedding Wire

Kenzie Amick 4/27/18 Kenzie Amick 4/27/18

Studio 1414 // Lawrence & Johnny

With no set traditions for same-sex couples, Lawrence and Johnny had complete freedom to create an unparalleled event. For their celebration we transformed Studio 1414, a photography studio, into a unique and fun experience for their guests. The couple utilized the same space for both the ceremony and reception without the need for a flip. We mixed things up and started with a cocktail hour followed by an informal, standing ceremony with guests surrounding the couple and officiant, creating a very intimate setting with their closest friends and family. For their free flowing reception, they provided food stations which featured charcuterie and favorites from Johnny's native Korea. The event continually evolved from dinner to dancing, darts and pool to amazing mini desserts and later to a create your own ramen bar! Lawrence and Johnny wanted to embrace their personal style in regard to both the attire and décor. They looked very handsome in their casual attire and the décor spoke to the relaxed feel of their celebration and their love for mid century modern decor. Edison bulbs were suspended from the ceiling; the round tables, high tops and wooden tables were lined with orange detailed linens; warm florals brightened the space; and modern lounge groupings were brought in to enhance the intimate feel of the wedding.

It turned out to be a beautiful and relaxed evening for family and friends of this {now} Los Angeles based couple! Check out the images below of Lawrence & Johnny's special day!

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Kenzie Amick 4/24/18 Kenzie Amick 4/24/18

Wedding Planning 101: Budget

Today we're sharing our pearls of wisdom regarding the not-so-fun wedding budget {and we guarantee your bank account will thank you for this!} Often times, planning the budget is where couples have their first freak-out.

Let's be honest, you’ve probably never thrown a massive party for all of your friends and family before, so how should you know how much that costs or how to allocate your money?! That's where we come in. Although there are no hard and fast rules to creating a budget, we have a few tricks up our sleeves to ease the stress.

The {sad} reality is that all weddings, whether simple or extravagant, have a budget. Most couples long for a gorgeous wedding with top-notch finishes and unfortunately, the bank account doesn’t always agree! The trick is to prioritize and plan so that you are sure to get exactly what you want without breaking the bank! One of the biggest roles we play as wedding planners is helping couples prioritize what they want out of their special day and identify how to get the look they desire within the confines of their budget. What can you {and your fiance} absolutely not live without? Is it that statement designer gown? What about a gorgeous floral installation? Or maybe you want your guests to have a real “foodie” experience? No matter what you decide, identifying the top priorities is a MUST to help ensure you get exactly what you want!

It’s hard to not get too excited and want to amp up every little detail of your big day, but we encourage you to sit down and allocate money early on in the planning process to each and every wedding expense BEFORE signing on ANY dotted lines. Yes, that means calling and checking vendor prices in every category. Be specific about what you want. Sure you can get florals for $3,000, but will that give you the look you are trying to achieve? Don’t be caught by surprise! Ask for a mock Banquet Event Order from your potential venue/caterer to ensure you account for all possible charges. Undergoing this tedious {but necessary} task will help you determine whether your desired price points are realistic and will safeguard your planning from unwanted surprises!

If the final budget is coming in too high, get creative! Shop for your dress at a sample sale, opt for a non-traditional venue, or cut your guest list down {this is the fastest way to cut your budget and besides, not every friend needs a date!} Reconsider the big ticket items {food and beverage} and perhaps scale back on the price point of menu items or cut back on your dream of a fully hosted bar.

We promise that a full flushed out budget BEFORE planning makes decision making so much easier {and more fun!} If this seems like too much work, then sit back, relax and let a planner {like us} help you create a budget. We‘re happy to help and have created countless budgets at a variety of price points.

Kenzie Amick 3/9/18 Kenzie Amick 3/9/18

Oscar Wedding Inspiration

Last Sunday, while everyone was eyeing up the winners and listening to acceptance speeches [hardly!}, we were pulling inspiration for weddings! Many of the looks, pulled from runways, may not be suitable at first glance, but shorten Allison Janney's sleeves and shorten the slit on Nicole Kidman's dress and you have two stunning mother of the bride dresses. We'd love to see a groom or groomsmen show up in Armie Hammer's jacket. Of course there were plenty of looks to inspire bridesmaids.

With {or without} a few design modifications, we would love to see a bride, MOB or groom in one of these jaw dropping looks. Any takers?

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Kenzie Amick 3/2/18 Kenzie Amick 3/2/18

Machine Shop // Madeline & Eric

Madeline & Eric attended University of Kansas together and their story began when they were assigned seats next to each other on a flight to Mexico their sophomore year. This Kansas native fell in love with a Minnesota girl and ended up moving to Minneapolis three years ago to build his own life here {with the long-term goal of marrying Madeline, of course!}

In 2016, Eric customized the perfect engagement ring for Madeline and proposed on Iona’s Beach on the north shore of Lake Superior. “I’m such a Francophile, so my mom took me to Paris to celebrate my engagement (and to find the perfect pair of shoes)!” says Madeline, “My wedding cocktail was even a Blush French 75 with edible flowers.” Madeline and Eric’s wedding flawlessly expressed their fresh, modern style from the exposed zipper on Madeline’s gown to reversing the looks and putting herself in blush and her bridesmaids in white. The decor’s modern aesthetic was softened with romantic touches, such as the floaty overlay on the head table and the floral design on the back of the menu.

It was important for this trendy, modern bride to incorporate traditional touches to her special day. Eric saw Madeline for the first time as she walked down the aisle in her custom blush Tara LaTour gown and full blusher veil from l’atelier couture. As her “something blue,” Madeline chose a vibrant blue floral pattern for her gown’s bodice liner. Her something “old” was a vintage monogrammed handkerchief from her great aunt and her "something new" was a Blush Mikimoto pearl that Eric gave her on the big day.

Kenzie Amick 2/27/18 Kenzie Amick 2/27/18

Bridal Accessories

The only way to complete your bridal look is by finding the perfect accessories that compliment your unique style. You deserve to strut down the aisle and flaunt the most gorgeous jewelry, hair pieces, shoes and clutches. From modern and chic to traditional and romantic, we've found all your needed accessory inspiration {and hey, you might even find the perfect inspo for your bridesmaids, too!}

If you're looking for even more inspiration, head over to our {BRIDALACCESSORIES} Pinterest Board!

Kenzie Amick 2/20/18 Kenzie Amick 2/20/18

Wedding Coordinator vs. Wedding Planner

We hear it all the time, “I don’t need a wedding planner. The venue provides one.” While venue coordinators are extremely helpful during the planning process, they have a different set of responsibilities. The main difference: the venue coordinator works for the venue, while a wedding planner works for you.

Venue Coordinator

A venue coordinator's responsibilities revolve around ensuring that your experience with the venue goes smoothly. They work for the venue, acting as a liaison between you and the venue staff.

Though responsibilities vary depending on whether catering is provided in house or not, typical duties include:

Contracting with you for necessary rooms and amenities.
Providing catering menus and pricing.
Arranging menu tastings and helping you decide on food and beverage choices.
Assisting with space planning.
Coordinating service staffing and security.
Processing venue payments.
On the day of your wedding, venue coordinators are there to turn on the lights, set out the tables and chairs, ensure the drinks are poured, and the space is cleaned up at the end of the night.
They are not there, for example, to ensure the cake is delivered or that the DJ knows the run of events for the day.

In fact, it's not uncommon that the venue coordinator you work with is not on site the day of your wedding, leaving that responsibility to an event captain you likely will not have met. If they are on site, they usually leave after the meal has been served. Contact with the venue coordinator usually cuts off once the contracts are signed, and they are not involved in the planning process again until about a month or two before the wedding. Although venue coordinators can provide catering and vendor referrals, these recommendations are not based on the style of wedding you are planning or your budget and the venue’s involvement often ends at the referral. Their main focus is to ensure that they provide all of the items outlined in the venue contract in a smooth, efficient manner, not to give feedback on how to best style the space.

Wedding Planner

As a wedding planner, we are hired by and work for you as a consultant throughout the planning process. Of course, the level of planner involvement varies based on the services for which we were hired. However, we get the opportunity to truly experience your story throughout the planning process, and are therefore able to give feedback on how to use this event as a way to capture your personality and incorporate details that align with what you are most passionate about.

Our typical responsibilities that are not provided by the venue coordinator include:

Regular consultations and guidance.
Budget and timeline development and management. This includes a final wedding timeline for the day of the event.
Vendor recommendations that are based on your specific budget and style.
Guidance with selection of all visual elements of the wedding including décor, fashion, invites, favors, and cake.
Vendor management and scheduling of, and attendance at, all vendor appointments.
Arranging of hotel blocks and group transportation.
Final audit of all planning to ensure all the final details are in place.
Final calls with all vendors to ensure counts, timing and other details are accurate and confirmed.
On-site coordination from the very start of set-up, all the way until the end of tear down.

We work with you to ensure you get the wedding of your dreams, with minimal stress. Then, day of, we do everything from keeping emergency kits on hand in case of tears or stains, to ensuring every vendor delivers an amazing experience for you and your guests.

In our opinion, every bride {and her mother!} needs at least a day-of coordinator to take care of all the details on the wedding day. That's why we offer multiple planning packages to cover every need and budget. Happy planning!

Kenzie Amick 2/16/18 Kenzie Amick 2/16/18

University Club // Lisa & Louis

Lisa, born and raised in St. Paul, wanted her wedding filled with St. Paul charm, so the University Club was the perfect fit for both their ceremony and reception. The classic candelabras, damask and lace linens, lush florals and greenery played well with the elegance of the venue. Though the wedding was late September, it turned out to be a gorgeous day. Even the planter flowers outside cooperated for photos! Guests drank and danced well into the night with the Apollo Quartet. What a beautiful evening for a lovely couple!

Kenzie Amick 2/13/18 Kenzie Amick 2/13/18

Valentine's Day For The Busy Bride

So excited for your wedding that you can’t think about anything else, but you still want to do something special for Valentine's Day with your honey? No worries, we've put together a list of some romantic activities you can knock off the wedding planning list while also enjoying each other's company!

WRITE YOUR VOWS OR LOVE LETTER
Use Valentine's Day as a time to reflect and reminisce on your relationship. {And if the thought of writing your vows seems overwhelming, start by writing a separate love letter to share with one another before the ceremony.}

RING SHOPPING
Valentine's Day is the perfect time to take a romantic trip to the jewelry store together to pick out your wedding bands!

PICK THE SONG FOR YOUR FIRST DANCE
Spend the night listening to your favorite romantic playlists and start narrowing down songs to find the perfect one you want to use for your first dance together.

PICK OUT READINGS FOR THE CEREMONY
Grab a glass of champagne or wine and start searching for meaningful readings that speak to you and your fiancé. Before you start your search, make sure you decide on a vibe you want for your ceremony. Then do your best to avoid popular passages, and find a few that are unique to your ceremony and relationship.

RESEARCH YOUR SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Find a cozy corner table at your favorite local bar and try out some fun and unique cocktails! Once you've tried a few, put those creative juices to work thinking of fun and creative names for the cocktail!

GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE
What better way to make this legal and unromantic task rather sweet and exciting? And remember, marriage licenses are valid for six months so don't go running to city hall if you still have over six months until the wedding!

Kenzie Amick 2/9/18 Kenzie Amick 2/9/18

Vendor Feature: The Hutton House

With high ceilings, natural light and elegant details, this hot new venue is perfect for the urban bride. While the beauty of the space speaks for itself, the clean lines and layout allow for endless opportunities to personalize and design The Hutton House to fit your style and to create a unique experience for your guests. Located just west of downtown Minneapolis in Medicine Lake, they make planning a celebration easy by offering on-site parking, a built-in bar, a variety of catering options, and even a spacious outdoor event space with a fire pit perfect for outdoor summer celebrations or wintery ceremonies under the stars. They even have rigging built into the ceiling to accommodate hanging decor or even aerialist performers!

Whether you are planning a small gathering or a large-scale event, The Hutton House is the perfect space for your celebration!

Images by Robert Evans Imagery and Perry James Photography

Kenzie Amick 2/6/18 Kenzie Amick 2/6/18

Not A Veil-Loving Bride?

It's not uncommon that modern brides aren't sold on the idea of wearing a veil {or even having a train}. Finally, there is a new trend surfacing as an alternative. It might not hold the traditional significance of a veil, but bridal capes are a fashionable and sophisticated addition to your wedding style. From princess and boho-inspired capes to sheer mid-length capes and capelets, this chic accessory is here to stay in 2018.

Not fully convinced you should complete your wedding gown with a chic cape? Just check out the gorgeous images below and find more inspiration on our Pinterest board {BridalCapes}.