wedding planner & guide

Wedding Day Headpieces

2012-02-13T13:04:00.000-06:00

Recently I have fallen in love with the chic and dramatic headpieces of Denver-based Sara Gabriel, especially because they showcase the wide variety of options that are available to today's brides. Locally, Sara Gabriel headpieces are available at Premiere Couture. Below are some personal favorites:


Dotty Hat	Izzy Hairpin	Carter Hair Ribbon


Alissa Headband	Enjaneek Siren Veil	Natalie Clip


Sakura Comb	Quinn Veil	Lainey Hair Wrap

Mossy Monograms

2011-11-21T14:39:00.000-06:00

As the trend toward earthy and green weddings continues to grow, I keep seeing more and more large mossy-looking monograms. These monograms are whimsically personal and can be used to decorate almost anything! Have them grace the ceremony entrance, the reception hall, or even the back of the bride's and groom's chairs at the reception.

Talk to your event decor specialist, purchase monograms online, or make your own by cutting out letters from styrofoam or purchasing pre-made paper mache letters from a craft store. Spray-paint your letter(s) green and use hot glue or spray mount to affix the moss.

Photos courtesy of: Beautiful Portraits by Michael, Personal Expressions Floral & Wedding Design

A Weekend to Remember

2011-10-24T10:49:00.000-05:00

Photo: Primavera Studios

Your wedding is just one of the weekend's you will share together in the rest of your lives. You will spend many more weekends and many more years together. Start the adventure off with a strong foundation. One of the best ways to do this is through various marriage seminars and retreats offered locally. A particularly good national conference that is coming to both Madison is FamilyLife's "Weekend to Remember" marriage getaway.

This two and a half day getaway is a chance to get away from the distraction of daily life. Cell phones are shut off. To-do lists are temporarily forgotten. It's time to slow down and reconnect. You’ll find it’s a warm, engaging environment that’s all about making progress in your marriage… What you and your spouse will hear during the Weekend to Remember® is not just one couple’s opinion on marriage. Instead, it is the result of more than three decades of research by a team of men and women who distilled what it takes to have a successful marriage and family. Over one million couples who wanted to take their marriages from "just fine" to "fantastic" have looked to FamilyLife to make it happen.

FamilyLife started as a conference designed specifically to help engaged couples build a strong foundation for marriage. Now, over 35 years later, they continue to honor their first goal by offering breakout sessions that help hundreds of engaged couples each year. It's time spent with people who have "been there, done that" with regard to marriage, and it's also an opportunity to ask any questions you might have about one of the biggest steps in your life.

Whether this is your first marriage or you are engaged to be remarried, find the blueprints to start your marriage right!

Getaway Location:
Monona Terrace Convention Center
1 John Nolen Drive
Madison, WI 53703
November 18 - 20, 2011

Special Discount:
Be sure to use the promotional code 'weekend' when registering online, or by calling 800-358-6329 to receive the discounted price of $99.50 per person or $199 per couple (regular rate is $318 per couple).

Floral Pew Decorations

2011-10-03T11:32:00.000-05:00

Looking for a few ideas to spruce up your ceremony ambiance? Here are floral pew decorations sure to inspire:

Blue Dandelion Photography

Krakora Studios

Blue Dandelion Photography

Heidi Lee Photography

Ann Gorgen Photography

Blue Dandelion Photography

Krakora Studios

Sarah Immel Photography

Captured Moments Photo & Video

Seating Cards

2011-09-07T12:40:00.000-05:00

I have recently been writing some seating cards for a family member's upcoming wedding. I thought I'd showcase a few ideas for you all!

Primavera Studios

Type A Images

Red Gecko Studio

Blue Dandelion Photography

Krakora Studios

Paul Toepfer Photography

Blue Dandelion Photography

Sarah Immel Photography

Primavera Studios

Blue Dandelion Photography

Krakora Studios

Adam Tyksinski Photography

Creative Look Studios

Royal Wedding Inspiration

2011-04-29T10:50:00.000-05:00

While on location in St. Andrews, Scotland, where Kate and Wills first met while attending university, I can attest to the fact that the excitement surrounding the royal wedding is certainly at a fever pitch! That excitement has most definitely crossed the pond. And understandably so. The wedding was the perfect mix of elegance and tradition. Expect to see its influence in local weddings for years to come.

Below are a few more wedding photos for you to enjoy, as well as some ideas for how to achieve a similar look in your own Wisconsin wedding.

On April 25, Elishah Oesch from WKOW 27 interviewed a few Madison wedding professionals on how to create a beautiful royal wedding in Madison. Special thanks to the following for their beautiful reception table presentation:

A to Z Event Essentials - Rentals and Table Designs

Lake Windsor Golf Club - Reception Facility

Paper Piper Designs - Wedding Invitations

The Flower Studio - Floral designs

Using the Wedding Industry to Fight Injustice

2011-04-07T12:51:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest trends in the wedding industry today is the proliferation of couples that want to incorporate a socially responsible element in their weddings. Many couples will have "green" weddings by using organic, local products or using items that are recycled or can be easily recycled. Others make contributions to charities through encouraging guests to donate in lieu of a wedding gift or by making a donation on behalf of their guests as a wedding favor.

A welcome addition to this trend is the rise in wedding professionals that are using their own businesses to join the crusade against injustice. Here's one project by local photographer, Paper Antler:

Beginning January 2012, Jonny and Michelle Hoffner of Paper Antler will embark on a year long adventure, with the goal of photographing 50 weddings in 50 states in 50 weeks donating $1,000 from each wedding to She Dances for a total donation of $50,000.

She Dances is a non-profit, anti-human trafficking organization whose mission is to provide healing, hope, and a future for girls who are victims of human trafficking. Through safe homes, raising awareness, and the arts...they strive to create a movement of freedom.

The $50,000 raised through the Fifty Nifty project would assist She Dances in sustaining their current safe home in Honduras for one year or allow them to open a new safe home in another place of need.

The Freshest Wedding Trends - on WISC TV 3

2011-02-04T06:23:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday, January 11th, the Wedding Planner & Guide was featured on WISC TV-3's morning show to showcase a few of the latest trends and fashions in the wedding industry.

Here are a few snapshots. Enjoy!

Thank you to:

Julie's Bridal Gallery - for the lovely bridal gown

Brandi's Bridal Galleria, Etc. - for the beautiful bridesmaid dresses

Nedrebo's Formal Wear - for the perfectly coordinated tuxedo

Thank you to:

Sweet Street Bakery - for the intricate wedding cake

Thank you to:

Personal Expressions Floral & Design, LTD - for the stunning bouquet

Special thanks to:

The Paper Deli - for the creative invitation spread

The Latest Wedding Trends on WKOW TV - Part 3

2011-01-14T18:09:00.000-06:00

Wedding Bouquets - Karyn Schneider from The Petal Patch

The Latest Wedding Trends on WKOW TV - Part 2

2011-01-14T18:07:00.000-06:00

Wedding Cakes - Chris Olson from Chris's Confections

The Latest Wedding Trends on WKOW TV - Part 1

2011-01-14T17:51:00.000-06:00

Check out the latest trends in wedding dresses, cakes and flowers.

Thanks to Elishah Oesch for the great segment!

Wedding Gowns - Brandi Nehmer from Brandi's Bridal Galleria, Etc.

Top Cake Trends on WISC - TV3

2011-01-14T11:20:00.000-06:00

Here's a look at what to expect for cake trends this year:

Special thanks to Sweet Street Bakery and The Knock Shoppe for providing us with such wonderful confections!

Roller Coaster Wedding

2010-10-08T05:01:00.000-05:00

Tacky or Terrific? What do you think?

Marriage Memories

2010-08-12T16:03:00.001-05:00

I love this idea! What a beautiful way to show the merging of two families! Your guests will love to see these glimpses of earlier eras - especially family members. Simply track down family photos and a few frames that match your wedding decor. Voila!

Photo Courtesy of Sarah Immel Photography

Couple Recycles Aluminum Cans to Pay for Wedding

2010-07-12T15:39:00.000-05:00

At the end of the month, Spokane couple, Peter Guyer and Andrea Parrish will be tying the knot. As momentous as this occasion is, what seems to outshine their actual nuptials is how they raised money for the occasion: They raised $3,800 by recycling 400,000 aluminum cans.

Check out the details in this Yahoo! article:

So, what are some creative ways you are raising funds for your wedding?

Buzzed Into The Madison Summer Bridal Show

2010-06-14T15:25:00.000-05:00

Special thanks to:

The Madison Club - reception location
The Flower Studio - bouquets and centerpieces
Carl's Cakes at Market Street Diner - wedding cake
Vera's House of Bridals, Ltd. - bridal and bridesmaids gowns
The Paper Deli - invitations and table cards

Cake Trends on WITI Fox 6

2010-05-27T10:09:00.000-05:00

Special thanks to Mike and Mary Olesen from O&H Danish Bakery for the beautiful cakes!

From Point A to Point B

2010-04-27T11:18:00.000-05:00

I love seeing the creative ways people travel around on their wedding days. In addition to plane, train and automobile, why not include bike, bus, or boat? Below are a few ideas to help you start thinking about transportation!

1. A bicycle carriage - How cozy!

2. We may not be privy to the gondoliers in Venice,
but this seems pretty romantic to me!

3. Say no more, Milwaukee!
Grab that Harley and hit the open road!

4. The perfect start to the perfect marriage -
an elegant ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

5. Clang clang clang goes the trolley!
Grab the gals and get ready for a memorable trolley ride!

6. Wouldn't you love to just be whisked away above the clouds?

7. What a fun way to ride for the adventurous groom and bride!

8. The wheels on the bus go round and round...
A better song to sing might be: "Going to the Chapel."

9. Look at the man sitting on the bench in the background!
What a riot!

10. I love it! Can't you just see a bridal party biking around downtown Madison?
How environmentally friendly!

11. This is quite the luxury golf cart!

Photography by: 1) Pierre's Portrait Art Co., 2) Krakora Studios, 3) Heidi Lee Photography, 4) Front Room Photography, 5) Front Room Photography, 6) Heidi Lee Photography, 7) Pierre's Portrait Art Co., 8) Creative Look Studios, 9) Pierre's Portrait Art Co., 10) Appleby Photography, 11) Paul Toepfer Photography

How Iceland's Volcano Affects Your Wedding

2010-04-20T10:46:00.001-05:00

According to a recent report by WISC - TV3 Channel 3000, The Icelandic Eruption not only affects Europeans - it affects Wisconsin brides as well. With the transportation disruption, floral shipments to the area are being delayed - especially novelty flowers such as freesia, peonies and tulips.

As the start of the wedding season quickly approaches, brides with upcoming weddings should contact their florists to see if they are directly affected. Flights have started to take off again, despite the volcanic ash, but if there is a problem with your floral shipments, a good florist will be able to achieve the look you want while substituting other flowers.

For more information read the entire article.

To find a reputable florist in Madison, visit here. To find a reputable florist in Milwaukee, visit here.

Check out the interview with Beauty Blossoms' Beth Lueck:

Photograph by Front Room Photography

Flip Book: Easy Online Reading

2010-04-12T11:07:00.000-05:00

We frequently have people call in to see where they can pick up a copy of the WEDDING Planner & Guide. We have a list of Madison area locations here and a list of Milwaukee area locations here.

But NOW we are introducing the debut of our online WEDDING Planner & Guide. So far we only have the Madison edition, but Milwaukee is on its way!

While I still love having a hard copy to tote around, this makes for some easy access to printable pages of wedding inspiration and how-to's. Let me know what you think!

White Poppy Anemones

2010-04-09T14:47:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I have been seeing these white poppy anemones everywhere!
They are so lovely in a whimsical and somewhat dramatic way.
I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

For more on wedding bouquets, click here.

Photographs by Krakora Studios.

April Showers

2010-04-07T14:54:00.000-05:00

What makes the perfect bridal shower? Dear friends, good food, thoughtful gifts and plenty of laughter! Too often we think there needs to be an excuse to party. A wedding is the perfect reason to celebrate!

Bridal showers are meant to "shower" the bride-to-be with gifts. They are given by any friend or relative that wants to do something special for the couple. Usually immediate family members do not host the shower because it gives the appearance of asking for gifts. Often it is the honor attendant, with the help of maids, that volunteers to host a shower.

If you are hosting a bridal shower, here are a few ways to help your party be memorable and meaningful for both the bride and the guests:

The Beginning
the shower, make sure to let the bride know how many guests you feel comfortable hosting. Even a thoughtful bride may not realize that feeding and accommodating a guest list of 50 may be outside the parameters of your budget!

The Guest List
Determine exactly who is on the guest list. Is this a shower for the bride only or both the bride and groom? Will children be welcome? This will impact what type of party you can have.

The Location
A simple in-home party can often be most comfortable. For smaller groups, consider lunching at a restaurant or having an activity-based shower.

The Theme
Is there anything the bride and groom particularly need to start their new life together? Perhaps have a Room-of-the-House shower to help them outfit a bathroom or stock the kitchen. Is the bride prepared for the honeymoon? Perhaps have a lingerie party. Does the couple already have everything they need? A wine and cheese party might be perfect! A theme is certainly not necessary, but can making planning easier! For shower ideas, click here and here.

The Invitations
Make sure to mail your invitations about a month to a month and a half before the party. Since a bridal shower is always given by someone other than the bride, it is appropriate to include registry information on or with the invitations.

The Food
Whether brunch, light snacks, or centered around a meal, a shower should always have food. The spread can be simple or elaborate. A party theme can come in handy when choosing what to serve. For example, a tea party naturally lends itself to scones, pastries and other delicate fare, while fruit kabobs and piña coladas are perfect for a luau.

Don't Forget
- Make sure all the guests are introduced to each other. It might be helpful to get nametags.
- Designate a scribe to record all the gifts and who gave them.

Note to the Bride
- Don't forget to give the host or hosts a thank-you gift for planning and pulling off your shower.
- Remember to send thank-you notes to all the guests no later than a month after your shower.

What was the most fun/memorable bridal shower you attended or hosted? Let me know! I'd love to hear your stories!

Photography Top to Bottom: Front Room Photography, Krakora Studios, Front Room Photography

Pronovias 2010 Collection

2010-03-25T13:12:00.001-05:00

I love how Pronovias gowns are always so exquisitely crafted. They are created with such flair! The current collection alone boasts such a variety. Brides can now find absolutely anything when they go dress shopping. Each one is sure to be stunning! I've shown a few of my favorites below.

Notice the flattering A-Line silhouette, the beautiful lace, the bow accent at the empire waist, the scalloped lace at the bust line - and the adorable bolero jacket!

This one catches on to the latest trends with a one-shoulder design. The mermaid style silhouette flatters those of us with more curves. The cascading ruffles add excitement as well!

I love the drama this dress creates. The A-line silhouette is elegantly crafted with a side-sweep ruched waist. The asymmetrical pleats on the bodice are so dramatic!

The lace on this dress is so beautiful! The illusion neckline is a nice touch - and very flattering for those who are able to bare their arms and shoulders.

This one might be my favorite. It's so romantic! This is another mermaid silhouette with a waterfall-effect of cascading ruffles. I love the spaghetti straps with the floret accent at the bust. Delightful!

To find the best dress for your body type, click here.

Gowns from the Pronovias 2010 Collection are available at Amelishan Bridal in Hubertus, Wisconsin and Brandi's Bridal Galleria, Etc. in New Glarus, Wisconsin.

Fancy Footwear

2010-03-10T14:57:00.000-06:00

I not-so-secretly love how more and more brides are using bright and outrageous colors in their footwear. Below are a few of my favorites:

Photography Top to Bottom: Krakora Studios, Front Room Photography, Front Room Photography, Pierre's Portrait Art Co., Jonathan Hoffner Photography, Jonathan Hoffner Photography

Creative Cake Tops

2010-03-03T16:05:00.000-06:00

As couples continue to personalize their weddings, no detail is overlooked.
Step aside unimaginative porcelain cake toppers! Make way for these unique tops...

1) Clay Animals

2) Mixed Flowers

3) Fondant Confetti

4) Confectionary Florets

5) Branches and Vines

6) Fruit

7) Personalized Statues

8) Porcelain Doves

9) Cake Jewelry Monograms

10) Fondant Ribbons

11) Butterflies

Photos courtesy of: 1) Krakora Studios, 2) Primavera Studios, 3) Krakora Studios, 4) Front Room Photography, 5) Krakora Studios, 6) Paul Toepfer Photography, 7) Front Room Photography, 8) Edward Fox Photography, 9) Primavera Studios, 10) Paul Toepfer Photography, 11) Captured Moments Photo & Video

Fashion Show Highlights

2010-02-08T13:53:00.001-06:00

The hottest 2010 fashion trends were debuted on the red carpet at this year's WEDDING Planner & Guide Bridal Fashion Shows.
Here are a few highlights for you to enjoy...

...from Madison:

...from Milwaukee:

From Head to Toe: Top Trends for 2010

2010-01-13T15:33:00.000-06:00

As 2010 gets underway,
here are the top trends to look for:

1. Dramatic Headpieces -
From hats to blushers and birdcage veils with feathers and flowers, brides will be wearing these dramatic show-stoppers.

2. Parasols -
The perfect, colorful accessory, sure to brighten up your bridal party's ensemble.

3. The Mini -
Mini's have never been so big! You will see brides sporting them in all sorts of styles.

4. Festive Footwear -
Who says shoes need to match the dress? Brides and their bridesmaids are adding a colorful bounce to their step as they walk down the aisle.

5. Custom Invites -
The invitation hints at the flavor of the wedding to come. Couples are infusing their own unique tastes into this aspect of the wedding as well.

6. Fruit and Flowers -
Centerpieces are becoming more exciting. Don't be surprised if you see veggies too!

7. Creative Cake Tops -
Why not put whatever you want on the top of your cake? Get carried away!

8. Cupcakes -
Guests can enjoy their own personal treat. And they are just so adorable!

9. Thoughtful Gestures -
For the brides that think of everything. Shawls or flip-flops for outside festivities go above and beyond.

10. Whimsical Favors -
Couples are adding some personality to their wedding favors. Fun!

Photos Top to Bottom, courtesy of: 1-3) Jonathan Hoffner Photography, 4) Front Room Photography, 5) Sugar River Stationers, 6) Krakora Studios, 7) Creative Look Studios, 8) Jonathan Hoffner Photography (Cupcakes by Creative Confections by Alicia Russell), 9) Paul Toepfer Photography, 10) Krakora Studios

What's In A Name?

2009-07-20T16:15:00.000-05:00

View more news videos at: http://www.nbcmiami.com/video.

More than likely, adopting your spouse's name is not going to be as stress-free as it was for Kelly Hildebrandt, so know your options:

Adopt your husband's surname
Retain your maiden name
Retain your maiden name professionally, but change your legal name.
Adopt a joined surname with your spouse (either hyphenated or unhyphenated)
Mix your surnames to create an entirely different name
Create an entirely different surname

Each option is perfectly legal. Your marriage officiant will have you sign the marriage license using your new name. He or she will then forward your license to the county clerk who will send you an official copy of your marriage license.

You should start using your new name immediately. It may even be wise to sign both names for a little while (i.e., Jane Smith, formerly known as Jane Doe).

Visit http://www.wedplan.com/ for a list of places you will need to notify of your name change.

Hot Trends

2009-06-16T12:46:00.000-05:00

wedding planner & guide interview on nbc 15's "hot trends" segment.

special thanks to:
brandi's bridal galleria, etc. for the gowns,
personal expressions floral & event design for the bouquets, and
suzanne's sweet artistry for the cake.

Bridal Shows

2009-06-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

Photos from the fashion show at our first-ever Milwaukee Summer Bridal Show turned out fabulously! In addition to sharing a few with you, I thought I'd share some tips for making the most of your bridal show experience.

before the show

- Purchase tickets in advance to save money and
avoid long lines at the door.

- Discuss your budget. Have an idea of what products and services you want and how much you are willing to spend.

- Make a plan ahead of time. what do you want to accomplish at the show?

- Pre-print labels with name, wedding date, address and phone number to make signing up for drawings quick and easy!

day of show

- Dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes. you may do a lot of walking.

- Bring people with you who are part of the decision making process (bride, groom, parents, etc.). What you get done now saves time and money later.

- Bring paper and pen for notes on exhibitors and the products and services that interest you. you can use the show program to mark fashions that catch your eye during the fashion show and exhibitors you would like to visit.

- Allow as much time as possible to spend at the event. All of your wedding planning can be taken care of at the show. use this time to your advantage. If it is a two-day show, consider attending both days.

- Look at each booth. don’t miss an opportunity or unique idea. For serious shopping, it is best to visit booths during a fashion show. Aisles tend to be less congested, allowing for quality time with the vendors.

- Take a break if you are feeling tired or overwhelmed. Rest, have a bite to eat, look over your gathered information, and discuss interesting things you may want to look at again.

Be A Modern Day Romeo & Juliet

2009-06-04T15:28:00.001-05:00

While your Romeo may not be able to whisk you away for a romantic wedding on Juliet's balcony. There are plenty of places close to home that allow you to exchange vows in a dreamy atmosphere. For a list, click here.

wedding planner & guide on dollars and sense

2009-06-04T12:54:00.000-05:00

for some other cost-saving tips, click here.

Grizzly Groomsman

2009-05-04T11:35:00.000-05:00

While you probably aren't planning to have a grizzly bear in your bridal party, there are a few things you can do to ensure your wedding attendants don't turn a little grizzly by the time your wedding day arrives!

1) An invitation to be a bridesmaid or groomsman is permanent—except in extreme circumstances—so avoid asking unreliable and irresponsible friends and family to be in the wedding party that you might later wish to “unask.”

2) Make sure your attendants have a clear idea of what is expected of them as a member of your bridal party (i.e. events they should attend, financial expenses, etc.).

3) Limit "wedding talk." of course your friends are excited about your wedding and want to share in this new phase of your life. But be intentional about not letting every conversation you have revolve around the wedding.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2009-05-01T11:54:00.000-05:00

It's spring! The trees are budding and the flowers are blooming! Take advantage of the beauty around us by using local wedding flowers that are in season. You'll be supporting local business while saving cash at the same time.

Some Wisconsin flowers that are in season this time of year:
crocus, daffodils, forsythia, hyacinth, lilac, peonies, and tulips.

New Bridal Show!

2009-04-09T15:11:00.000-05:00

As spring finally thaws out winter, everyone at the wedding planner and guide is catching a bit of spring fever - most definitely because we're planning our first ever milwaukee Wedding Planner & Guide Summer Bridal Show!

Our milwaukee wedding planner & guide show in january is always very successful, but brides have told us they want one in the middle of the year as well. We're ready to rise to the challenge!

Our new show is at the harley davidson museum. This show is going to be so fun - and your bridal show ticket will also get you into harley davidson exhibition at a discounted rate. check out our website for more details about the show.

I just have to share these fun photos from our recent harley davidson photo shoot taken by Babboni Photography!