November 6, 2019
in 1928 Planning, Real Weddings, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Preparation, Wedding Reception Ideas

 

THE DETAILS

Date: September 2, 2018

Venue: Private Residence; Lakehouse in Whitehall, Michigan

Color Scheme: Grays, Creams, Greenery, Gold

Design Inspiration: Refined rustic with classic flair

 

 

 

THE HIGHLIGHTS

The location of Justin and Casey’s wedding celebration was such a wonderful way to bring family, old and new, together on a property filled with memories, spectacular lake views and privacy. The expansive lawn provided space for ceremony over the bluff, cocktail space, and an adjacent tented reception. With all areas being outdoors, they wanted nothing more than to showcase greenery, and the earthiness of the outdoors into their chosen color palette and wedding design. It really was a winning look we enjoyed seeing come together! 

Private residence weddings are essentially creating a wedding venue from a blank canvas. Down to selecting what size tent, colored chair, type of fork, and everything in between, Justin and Casey had an eye and vision that was consistent and simplistic. We are drawn to looks like are straightforward, focused and airy. It allows for the overall impact to speak for itself. What to live this day even more? Check out their wedding video trailer!

 

THE VENDORS

Photo: Jillian Bowes

Video: Maiko Media

Design, Logistics Planning, Day of Coordination, Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Floral: Every Little Detail 

Seating Chart: Kimy Battista Art

Venue Rentals: Aays Event Rental (tent, lighting, dance floor, tables, reception chairs, place-settings) + Classic Catering + Events (ceremony chairs, restrooms).

Baker: Sweet Traditions

Entertainment: Kaleidoscope Events, 77 VW Photobooth Bus

 

 

 

November 29, 2018
in 1928 Planning, Real Weddings, Schades of Light, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas

 

THE DETAILS

Date: October 21, 2017

Venue: The Veranda at the Whitcomb (Reception), St. Joseph Catholic Church (Ceremony)

Inspired Theme: Kate Spade 

Color Scheme: Deep Red, Black, White, Gold

Design Inspiration: Bold flair, bright design, classic elegance

 

THE HIGHLIGHTS

Bride, Sarah has a beautiful eye for design and from our first conversations she expressed wanting to see the wedding style incorporate black and white stripes along with deep red accents. Designing weddings is one of our favorite services we can offer couples (check out our gallery!) but it isn’t every day that we have a bride come to us with such a bold take on wedding design. To not be afraid of color, patterns and texture – we were instantly excited to get those creative juices flowing. The theme quickly became coined as “Kate Spade” inspired and we found ways to create that same flair you’d see in the K.S. brand: exaggerated striped linens, pops of bright florals with little-to-no filler, gold and glitzy accents; the works. 

We’ve never seen a reception space be as transformed as this one was. The gold chiavari chairs lend a huge hand in Sarah + Casey’s desire for a touch of classic elegance into the otherwise bold design. The ceiling lit up with cafe bistro lights and glowing lanterns when the sun set over Lake Michigan. Are you dreaming of those sunsets like we are, as we right this in snow fall?

S + C wanted to create a mingling dinner atmosphere, so guests visited different food stations and tried something for every taste bud: build your own mashed potato bar, mac + cheese with brisket, taco station with guacamole. YUM.

The planning of the bar service and dessert are just as important. They chose signature drinks “The Casey” and “The Sarah” as well as desserts for days: cherry pie, cake pop bites, apple cider donuts, s’mores station. YUM, YUM.

Regardless of your design style, be it neutral or bold, there is something to be said about the details they incorporated to make their wedding design theme strong and cohesive from each element to the next. 

 

THE VENDORS

Photography: Bobbi Photo

Design, Coordination, Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Lighting: Schades of Light

Floral: Stella Event Design

Reception Chairs: Taylor Rental Party Plus

Baker: Christine’s Confections, CK Catering

 

 

January 25, 2018
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning, Wedding Preparation

One of the best parts of a wedding is seeing all of your out of town guests you don’t visit often, but they will need a place to stay. As mundane as it may be, room blocks can be one of the most important bookings you will make for your guests. We’ve put together some tips to help make this task go as smooth as possible.

LET’S START FROM THE BEGINNING

First of all, what is a room block? A room block is a group of rooms a hotel holds for your wedding guests, typically at a discounted rate. Guests are responsible for booking and paying for their rooms, while the couple is responsible for reserving the block.

START EARLY! 

The sooner you begin your hotel searches, the better chance in finding availability. Keep in mind any weekend events happening around St. Joe, as hotels will book much more quickly than a non- event weekends.

AVAILABILITY

Check hotel availability before booking your venue. All of the hotels near your venue are booked for your date? Try to have some date flexibility so you have plenty of hotel options. The last thing you want is to have no where for your guests to stay during your wedding weekend.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Keep in mind the distance between your wedding venue and the hotels you make room blocks at. Would you like to travel another 25 minutes to a wedding when you have already come in from out of town? Probably not and chances are your guests wouldn’t either. Safety also comes into play for returning to the hotel after the wedding. In short, the closer, the better.

ASK QUESTIONS

Contracts are typically required for reserving a room block, so always know what you are signing off on. Is there a minimum number of rooms you can block? Is there a maximum number you can block? Are there any fees for unbooked rooms? If not, how many rooms can go unbooked? What is the typical booking deadline before the unbooked rooms become available for regular hotel guests? Is there a deposit for making a room block? Are there any rules or restrictions regarding room blocks? What amenities does the hotel offer to guests? Does the hotel offer shuttle service for guests?

 

Last, but certainly not least, get everything in writing! If there is anything you discussed with the hotel, but is not explicitly stated in the contract, wait for an updated contract before signing anything.

START SMALL

Most couples have no idea on exactly how many rooms they should have in their room block, which can be frustrating. Begin by booking a small amount of rooms and add if needed, especially if there are any fees associated with unbooked rooms.

ROOM TYPE

Along with how many rooms to reserve, know your guest list to book appropriate types of rooms in your block. Think of how many families versus couples will be coming in from out of town.

KEEP COST IN MIND

One of the best options you have is to make room blocks at two to three hotels in different price ranges in the area for guests to choose from. This will help make accommodations accessible to (hopefully) all of your out of town guests. Along with this, look at the big picture. Including the room rate, are there any extra fees (parking, late check- out, etc.) that your guests may need?

 CHECK- IN TIMES

Don’t forget to keep check- in and check- out times in mind regarding other wedding weekend events. Guests will appreciate having some time before any festivities to check into their hotels and freshen up.

COMMUNICATE

You finally have your room blocks set, now tell your guests about them! Include hotel contact information and any specific instructions they will need to book from your room block.

April 16, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Real Weddings, Schades of Light, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas

We love sharing stories of 1928 Real Weddings with our fans! Travis and Michaja’s August celebration was one we couldn’t skip out on. They were such a fun duo to work alongside in the planning stages and their venue selection was a first for us – actually a first in history! They were host to the first wedding reception held at 12 Corners Vineyards in Benton Harbor, Michigan. More to come on that cool place later! We’ll give you the inside tour of their big day – the venue, food, decorations, and all of the details in between.

The Accessories

With wedding colors of cobalt blue and black, their accessories paired perfectly. The bride easily found her something blue while complementing their wedding colors. We are shoe obsessed over here at 1928 – couldn’t resist sharing a few photos! Completing the groom’s look were stylish shades – working double-duty on the sunny August day.

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The Venue

The Vineyard at 12 Corners is one of Southwest Michigan’s newest tented wedding venues, and from a planner’s perspective, offers SO much for couples looking for a location that is beautifully backdropped, private, and in the heart of wine country. The property sits on 115 acres of land, surrounded by grape vineyards, an apple orchard, corn fields and so much more. What all does this mean for you? You have access to unlimited photo opportunities – not even needing to think about going off-site to capture something beautiful.

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The Ceremony

As guests arrived for the wedding ceremony, they were welcomed with a 12 Corners wine tasting experience. As they sampled wine created by the grapes surrounding them, they strolled through the vineyard. It was the perfect way of setting the scene for a stellar atmosphere and celebration to come.

The ceremony took place in the on-site apple orchard. Seating was arranged in a slight semi-circle formation. Regardless of the size of your wedding, semi-circle setups make for a more intimate setting and have been trending with our couples for the last few years.

1 As the ceremony began, guests were happily surprised with a dancing processional, filled with Travis and Michaja’s closest family and friends.  Such a fun group of people in attendance that we wouldn’t expect anything less!

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The Decor and Details

Boy do we swoon over a unique reception layout! The guest list was set at 200 attendees. The reception layout was mixed with a variety of styled tables, including traditional round table seating, King Arthurs (8ft x 5ft), and rented Napa Farmhouse Tables from 1928. The Napa’s look like they were made for a venue like The Vineyard, and paired with linen tables, softened up the space just right.

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Photo Credit: Josh Nowicki (above)

The centerpieces, miscellaneous beer growlers filled with baby’s breath and hints of white roses, were kept simplistic, knowing that the venue and atmosphere tends to speak for itself.

The additions of wine barrel cocktail tables and lounge furniture from 1928’s Rental Collection completed the look in the lounge space adjacent to the tent. This space is typically used for cocktail hour and as a space for guests to relax after dinner. Decorating and lighting this space is key – guests will spend so much time out there on a beautiful day!

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The Chow and Cocktails

Cocktails:

We mentioned earlier that the wine guests enjoy at the wedding reception is made exclusively at 12 Corners. To round out their bar menu, were local brewery, Bells, (located in Kalamazoo) – featuring Oberon and Two Hearted Ale, and a specialty cocktail named “Love, Love, Love” composed of blueberry lemonade and vodka.

Chow:

Catering service was provided by CK Catering (the exclusive caterer at the venue). We highly encourage couples to work with CK – their menu options are so expansive and the food is always tasty. Dinner was served family-style – a popular option most couple’s select and a super casual way for guests to enjoy their meal without getting out of their seat.

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The desserts were pies from local hot spot, Grandpa’s Cider Mill. As a late night snack surprise, the famous Ice Cream Truck made an appearance, allowing guests to indulge in a summer sweet treat and likely filled with guests reminiscing of the ice cream man from when they were kiddos.

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We couldn’t have asked for a better introduction on 1928’s behalf to The Vineyard at 12 Corners. It was a beautiful day and beautiful couple and we hope sharing a little ounce into their celebration gives you a glimpse of potential ideas for your own!

 

Vendors:

Venue: The Vineyard @ 12 Corners, managed by White Space Events.

Coordination & Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Liquor: Liquor Locker and 12 Corners Winery

Lighting Design: Schades of Light

Baker: Grandpa’s Cider Mill

Florist: Stella Event Design

DJ: Kaleidoscope Events

Photographer: Blueline Photography

 

 

 

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February 13, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Real Weddings, Schades of Light, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas

For 1928 Planning, holiday weekends always bring us an extra level of excitement and when you add in coordinating a wedding for a phenomenal couple, well, you realize just how awesome of a career you have! Jackie & Andy’s Fourth of July wedding celebration at The Veranda @ The Whitcomb in St. Joseph, MI, stars in our latest Real Weddings edition – and we are eager to share!

READY

Just like you’d hope for in July, it was gorgeous weather for their outdoor wedding celebration. After spending the morning getting ready at The Boulevard Inn, Jackie and Andy shared their intimate first look at easily the most breathtaking view of the city and Lake Michigan from atop the Whitcomb Tower. We are always telling people how much of a hidden gem it is – it never disappoints!

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Being just a quick jaunt away from Tiscornia Beach, the bridal party took a ride in style on the Sunset Coast Trolley and headed towards the beach to take advantage of one of the most noted landmark’s the city has to offer: The North Pier Lighthouse.

BRIDAL

The rooftop ceremony was, believe it or not, a first for The Veranda. It made for quite a special time and one that 1928 was thankful to be a part of! After trouble securing a ceremony location on a holiday weekend, Jackie and Andy were encouraged by their photographer, Ben Pancoast Photography, to check out The Veranda’s blank slate rooftop and have their wedding ceremony propped right above the bluff that overlooks Lake Michigan. Remember when I said the views don’t disappoint? This here was no exception.

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Their summer inspired color scheme complemented the rooftop perfectly, with pops of bright coral in their decor, florals, and bridesmaids dresses. They even topped off each ceremony chair with a pair of signature sunglasses both as favors and to keep their guests comfortable during the sunny afternoon ceremony.

CEREMONY 4

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As the ceremony ended, guests made their way downstairs to enjoy an hour of cocktails, music and delicious bites while lounging on the rented patio furniture in the connected garden. The layout of the reception was so unique – filling the space with large King Arthur tables to provide larger seating capacity at each table. It was a great way to add some dimension to the venue and to fit a larger guest count.

RECEP 1

The charcoal gray linens and ruffled runners paired with bundles of free-spirit coral roses made such a statement in the monochromatic atmosphere of The Veranda. Throughout the venue, no detail was forgotten. They designed signage that matched the table number with photos of both Andy and Jackie at the age. Something we are sure the guests enjoyed looking through as they found their seats for dinner service.

RECEP 2

The night was filled with family-style dinner service provided by (the awesome!) CK Catering, and delicious mini pies and cupcake bites from Amanda Marie’s Bakery for dessert hour. As the sun set, guests enjoyed dancing, sparklers, and anxiously awaiting the Fourth of July fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

FOOD

RECEP 3

As dusk came, the much anticipated firework show began, displaying in ideal view for the wedding guests gathered in the garden and on the walkway of The Veranda. It was literally a picture-perfect ending to their reception and sent guests off on such a high note! Jackie and Andy enjoyed the fireworks from the Tower. It made for some remarkable photos and a few minutes of alone time with each other to take it all in as their reception came to a close.

FIREWORKS

For more details on Jackie and Andy’s big day and so much more, contact 1928!

Vendors for Jackie & Andy:

Day of Coordination & Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Catering: CK Catering

Baker: Amanda Marie’s Bakery

Florals: Crystal Springs Florist

Photography: Ben Pancoast Photography

Music: DJ – Music Unlimited | Harpist – Meg Rodgers

Transportation: Sunset Coast Trolley

Lighting: Schades of Light

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February 6, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Beach Wedding, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning

BEACH INFO

Beach weddings in Michigan are becoming splendid ceremony alternatives for Midwesterners. Here at 1928, we are well-seasoned in beach ceremonies. That is why we have created this guide of our favorite beach and pavilion ceremony locations here in Southwest Michigan. We know a lot of our couples are from out of town and want to have a unique wedding along the shores of Lake Michigan, but they don’t always know what to consider when they look.

Oftentimes couples forget they need feasible access for their elderly guests, or they forget about a sound system … or the undeniable parking situation. We have started a list to help you start thinking about the best options in the area. We also offer ceremony planning services, where we attend your rehearsal to prompt cues, provide you with white padded chairs, decorate and tear down your ceremony site for you and be the point on contact at the beach for you, your guests, and your vendors.

Weko Beach Park – Bridgman, MI

Why we love it: While it is a little bit of a drive, this is one of our favorite gems. Weko Beach is right off of Red Arrow Highway in Bridgman and it has plenty of parking. The beach is extremely large and seldom crowded for that reason.

Distance from Saint Joseph: 13 miles, 20 minutes

Cost to rent: There is no pavilion; beach access is free to the public – so you would need to arrive early to stake your claim

Cost to park: $7 per vehicle for a daily pass

Public Restroom: Yes

Electricity: No

Shadowland Pavilion – St. Joseph, MI

shadowland pavilion copyPhoto Credit: Matt Pratt Photography

Why we love it: While the pavilion is not directly on the beach, it overlooks the St. Joseph river and is at the entry point of the St. Joseph Lighthouse. There is a beautiful walkway with sculptures along the river for guests to explore along with the lighthouse. We also love this location because it is under shelter and you don’t necessarily need a Plan B should it rain. There is also an option to put chairs in the grass for unlimited seating.

Distance from Saint Joseph: It’s in the heart of it all!

Cost to rent: $400 for non-residents on weekends

How many does it seat: 200 under the pavilion

Cost to park: $8 per vehicle for a daily pass (non-residents)

Public Restroom: Yes

Electricity: Yes

Tiscornia Beach – St. Joseph, MI

tiscornia copyPhoto Credit: Jordanne and Ryan Photography (top) | Woodnote Photography (bottom)

Why we love it: Tiscornia is our favorite (and free!) beach ceremony site in St. Joe. It runs along the north side of the St. Joseph Lighthouse and makes for awesome ceremony photos. We also love it because although a public beach, it is typically less crowded than Lions Park and Silver Beach. The only downside of Tiscornia is that the parking lot isn’t massive. We recommend using a shuttle service for a ceremony here.

Distance from Saint Joseph: North side of St. Joe

Cost to rent: Free

Cost to park: $5 per vehicle for a daily pass

Public Restroom: Yes

Electricity: No

Jean Klock Park and Jean Klock Park Pavilion – Benton Harbor, MI

jeanklock copyPhoto Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography

 

Why we love it: Getting to Jean Klock is a beautiful drive over the St. Joseph river and up a large sand dune. There is a ton of parking and the pavilion offers an option to have your ceremony under a shelter. To have your ceremony on the beach, it is free. The fee for the pavilion below.

Distance from Saint Joseph: 1.5 miles, 5 minutes

Cost to rent: $600 for 4-hours, $1200 for 8-hours, $1500 for full day (for non-residents)

Cost to park: $8 per vehicle for a daily pass (for non-residents)

Public Restroom: Yes

Electricity: Yes (at pavilion only)

 

 

A couple of things to always remember and when considering a beach wedding ceremony:

Don’t assume your DJ will/can go to the beach. Because there is no electricity at most beaches, DJ’s will need to bring in a battery-powered sound system. Be sure to have this be a question you are asking possible DJ vendors. We have also done our fair share of weddings without sound systems – just keep in mind that when it is windy, not everyone will be able to hear your officiant without a mic!

We hope this helps narrow down your Michigan beach wedding site search! There is nothing like dipping your toes in the sand and saying your “I dos” on Lake Michigan. Contact us today to see if we are available to help plan your beach wedding ceremony! Check out our service page here for more info on what we offer!

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January 19, 2015
in 1928 Planning, DIY Hot Spot!, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning

Having a DIY wedding vs. hiring a wedding professional … probably one of the most ongoing thoughts and debates in a couple’s mind throughout planning.

Even as planners, sure, we think there is nothing wrong with doing a little bit of DIY for your wedding. After all, you want the day to speak of all things YOU and who you are as a couple. And what’s a better way to do so than utilizing your own skills, right?

Well, sort of.

Most couples we meet want their wedding day – and of course the months leading up to it – to be stress-free, enjoyable and go without a hitch. Our piece of advice when making the ultimate decision on having a DIY wedding vs. hiring a wedding professional, is asking yourself a few questions:

Will going DIY result in the overall guest experience as a good one or a bad one?

For this particular task, why do I think doing it myself is the way to go? Does your answer seem reasonable?

Money aside, how could we benefit from hiring a wedding professional for this task?

And last but certainly not least, just remember…

Nothing trumps your sanity!

Hiring a trusted wedding professional: DJ, photographer, videographer, baker, florist, alcohol supplier, lighting vendor, etc. will bring you peace of mind. They have most likely been in the industry for years, if not decades. They know what is trending, what works and doesn’t work, and they can offer experienced advice on how to make your wedding exactly as you hope it to be.

DIY can mean anything from making your own guest takeaway favors, desserts, and centerpieces to hiring your cousin to DJ and uncle to act as videographer during the wedding ceremony. As planners, we suggest leaving the big items to the pros and you can express your DIY side on the smaller, less stressful and time-consuming elements of the wedding. You’ll keep your cool and not have the pressure that you may otherwise have if you put too much on your plate during planning and the day of the wedding.

Example: grab your bridesmaids for a night of prepping wedding guest favors or recruit the bakers in your family to make bite-sized desserts to accompany the wedding cake you hire from a professional.

Organize your wedding budget so you can confirm what you’re able or wanting to spend in each vendor category. Check out our helpful post showing a budget breakdown if you’re just getting started.

Of course, contact us with questions, or if you’d like our company to be someone you hire for the big day!

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December 8, 2014
in DIY Hot Spot!, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

Rustic Weddings have been making their mark in the industry for easily the last few years. But as an engaged couple, eager to plan the perfect wedding, you may be asking yourself, what exactly is a rustic wedding style and what does it mean for me?

This wedding style has so many interpretations and no one definition is the same. It allows you to really step outside the box and create your own version of rustic weddings – being a style setter rather than a style follower. Keep in mind that no matter which direction you decide to go, rustic is collective. Find miscellaneous and eclectic pieces that work together to complement your style. With this, mistakes, and imperfections are welcomed and cookie-cutter is nowhere to be found.

One of the most easily coined items to fall in the rustic category are mason jars, burlap, and lace accents in a barn setting. I don’t want to call those old-news, but there is SO much more out there! I think every one of my posts encourages you to BE CREATIVE, and this, my friend, is no different.

Rustic Weddings – Interpreting it for yourself.

Just some ideas to get the mind thinking:

 

Option 1:

Bringing in shades of green and creating an outdoor garden style with moss and branches. Use accents of reclaimed wood and recycled metals. Spiced favors to offer guests.

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Option 2:

Go more rustic – chic by designing the wedding around mercury glass, pearls, brooches, and heirloom lace.

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Option 3:

Take it more retro with an ocean blue color scheme, whimsical tableware, lemonade, peach preserve favors and a naked wedding cake.

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The rustic wedding has boosted the DIY sensation in the wedding industry. With the help of a loyal friend named Pinterest, DIY’ers are able to find a jumping off point for their ideas. Follow us on Pinterest to get some inspiration for your big day!

As always, contact us for more assistance!

 

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December 1, 2014
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

Ever heard the phrase “A Signature Wedding”? Chances are, even if the phrase isn’t ringing a bell, the idea behind it is something every engaged couple strives to have on their big day. Designing a signature wedding means creating something as custom, unique, and distinct as you and your beau are. It’s putting a little piece of both of you in most all aspects of your wedding design, decor, and theme. Doing so creates a lasting impression with your guests and a memory of an outstanding night, long after the wedding is over.

Just remember, memorable doesn’t always have to mean expensive! I always say, it’s the little things that matter most, and are appreciated by your guests, so don’t miss the opportunity!

The Details

Merge the two of your styles together to create a look that speaks volumes. (tips on how to add a masculine touch to your reception). With a signature wedding, your design should be consistent throughout the planning, from invitations, to fashion, signage, florals, linens, rental items, and everything in between. No matter how on top of things you are throughout your planning, it’s understandable that some items can be overlooked. With our experience, we’ve unveiled a list of the Top Five Forgotten Wedding Planning Details.

Guest Comfort

Nailing the ‘guest comfort’ piece at the wedding is a sure way to add a notch towards designing a signature wedding. While planning, in the back of your busy brain, always keep in mind guest comfort – and perfecting the overall guest experience.

COLD OR HOT WEATHER? Offer blankets, parasols, or sunglasses (which can also double as favors)

Sunglasses

Photo Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography

HUNGRY OR THIRSTY? Offer hot or cold drinks, (non-alcoholic, or with a twist), and small snacks in the odd times of the wedding day timeline.

INVITING KIDS TO THE WEDDING? Create customized kids packs to keep the kiddos occupied and the parents enjoying themselves. Check out our popular blog on how to manage kids at a wedding reception!

Kids Corner

Photo Credit: Casper Hamlet Photography

Food and Beverage

We’ve all heard the term “signature cocktail” as part of your bar experience at the wedding. It’s something so simple to offer, and with a quirky drink name, it’ll give people the sense that you’ve customized a drink that speaks about you and who you are as a couple.

Having a signature wedding is about stepping outside of the cookie-cutter wedding box and producing something one-of-a-kind. It goes without saying that wedding reception food can get a bad rap over the same ‘ole dishes being served from one wedding to the next (i.e. a chicken entree and a beef entree). Why not work with your caterer and design a custom menu that is crafted to your liking and has the items that are important to you rather than selecting a pre-made menu? We love giving kudos to CK Catering for always working with couples on their menu planning and customizing a dinner course that speaks their personality, taste buds, and budget.

Menu

Photo Credit: 430 Studios

It’s never too late in your planning to add a signature element or two. Start brainstorming now on what you can do to personalize and contact 1928 Planning if you want to hear more!

 

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June 18, 2014
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning

The first days and weeks after the engagement can be a stressful time for brides and grooms. Don’t know what step to take first in the wedding planning process? Follow this quick list to get the major decisions out of the way, so you and your sweetie don’t resort to eloping due to post-engagement planning shock!

Know your budget

This one is pretty straight-forward. Sit down with your fiance and family (if they plan to help financially) and know each others’ monetary limits for the wedding. You can’t start shopping until you know how much you have to spend. Once you know your wedding budget, do a few quick calculations to see how much you should be spending on each vendor. Check out our previous post here, to get breakdown percentages to guide your calculations.  Make sure everyone paying for the wedding is on the same page before moving forward.

Secure a venue and date

This wedding planning step comes with great relief. Once you pick your venue and date, other logistics and wedding planning pieces become easier to tackle. You can’t book a DJ, photographer or caterer until you have a date. And you can’t secure a date until you chose a venue with that date available. Depending on how long your engagement is and the time of year you are planning your wedding, you may have to adjust the location if you have your heart set on a certain date (or vice versa).  Here in Michigan, our peak season runs mid-April through mid-September. Many venues are only open for those months, so know your options and consider a Friday or Sunday wedding.

Hire your wedding planner

We might be a little biased on this subject, but we have also had our fair share of experiences at weddings without a wedding planner or coordinator. We see a lot of unwanted stress and disorder. Many brides say, “ I can’t afford a wedding planner” or “I will just have a friend take care of the planning.” While these are fair and valid options, a wedding planner can save you time and money because they have an extensive network in the business. They are also there to help YOU, without throwing in unwanted opinions. You are spending money on an fabulous photographer to capture the day, and a DJ to get the party started, and many other vendors who you want to do an exceptional job. A wedding planner will be the one to guide all of the pieces together – it can be pretty difficult to get everyone on the same page come your wedding day. We as planners do everything from helping you find vendors, to executing your wildest tablescape dreams. Trying to juggle everyone’s opinions along with all your ideas and wedding checklists can be exhausting. Save yourself the headache of wedding planning and hire a professional, we don’t know of a single bride who has regretted it!

There are a few venues that will include a base coordination package when you book. Here at 1928 Planning Co., we have a wide variety of a la carte services, planning packages and a stellar rental collection. We also provide base coordination packages for these venues in Southwest Michigan. All of these venues also come with exclusive catering by CK Catering. Check them out!

 

The Veranda at The Whitcomb

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Vineyard at 12 Corners

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Sun ‘n Sand Resort

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