Wedding Speeches
To Speak or Not to Speak; that is the Question!
By Kara Schultz
Wedding Photographer, Kara Schultz – Storyteller
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Many people don’t know in my previous life, I wrote and gave a lot of speeches, some in front of just a small crowd, others in front of hundreds. Being a communications major, I understood and had to study the differences in speeches and what made a good speech and a bad speech. As a wedding photographer, I see more speeches than most do in a year, some are great, some are not so great so here’s a good guide on what to do and what not to do. Read more
Top 10 Ways to Personalize Your Chicago Wedding
By Cynthia Sally
Professional Makeup Artist, www.cynthiasally.com
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- Hand-painted Aisle Runner with names/Monogram – great photo opp!
- Gobo Lighting with names/monogram – your initials will look great on the dance floor.
- Wedding cake – top your wedding cake off with some personality!
- Hang decorated letters on the church doors of your initials – your guests will be impressed before they even get through the door.
- Have your unity candle or sand ceremony containers personalized – they will make a great keepsake for years to come!
- Put your monogram on all your stationery – invites, save the dates, programs, menus, etc.
- Caricatures or painting – display at your escort table to wow your guests.
- Favors – make a donation to your favorite charity or have a candy buffet with your favorite sweet treats.
- Centerpieces – ask your florist for non-traditional alternatives.
- Unique table numbers – use pictures of the couple or creative themes.
Specialty Items to Purchase for Your Reception
Reception Must-haves that Serve a Purpose
By Lindsay Sally
Owner, www.bigdayboutique.com
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It’s all about the details and some special details at your reception should not be overlooked. Keep these items on your list and in your mind so you aren’t purchasing them at the last minute. The web is a great resource to find items that coordinate with the overall feel of your reception. Read more
Should I Have a Slideshow at My Wedding?
By Mike Dodson
MDM Entertainment Chicago Wedding Entertainment
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A good video montage or “slide show” at your wedding reception is a wonderful way to share memories with your family and friends on this very important day. The video can be both touching and funny and is a great way to bring people together. It can also serve as a way to recognize many of the important people in your life. Read more
Top 10 Wedding First Dance Songs
By Mike Dodson
MDM Entertainment
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Some couples know right away what their first dance will be while for many others it requires some serious thought.
Choosing the right song can be difficult decision because this is a song that will hold a special place in your hearts for the rest of your lives. You will find yourself dancing to it 50 years from now and you will remember the first time you danced together as husband and wife. Read more
Top 10 Ideas for Extra Wedding Entertainment
By Patti Herioux
Wedding Planner, With Love
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-Of course you want your wedding to be outstanding and talked about for years to come. A large part of the guest’s enjoyment of your wedding will depend on the entertainment. Here is a list of ten ideas for additional entertainment to make your wedding fun and memorable: Read more
How to Hire a Caterer
Getting the best wedding food for your budget
By Patti Herioux
Event Planner, With Love
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Up to 50% of your wedding budget will be spent on food and beverage. That makes the decision of who to hire for your catering needs something not be taken lightly. Unless you are on a limitless budget–which, face it, you aren’t–you need to put a lot of thought into how you allocate these funds. The goal is to provide delicious food that leaves your guests full, satisfied and licking their lips… not making a run for the nearest drive-thru! Read more
The Hottest Gift Card Holders
Vogue Vessels for Your Cards
By Kristen Janes of Kio Kreations
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There’s not need to go “old school” with a satin sack or treasure chest to hold your cards. Today’s gift card holders have a modern twist with chic form and easy function! Whether you DIY, buy or rent your card-holding vessel, there are a ton of options out there for you. Here are some of our favorites…
Make an Impression with Paper Products
Pretty Paper Products for Your Reception
By Kristen Janes of Kio Kreations
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In addition to flowers and linens, paper also plays a role at your wedding reception. From escort cards to table numbers to menus, pretty paper products can make a big impact to your decor.
Wedding Lighting as a Décor Element
Illuminate Your Ambiance
By Mike Dodson of MDM Entertainment
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Lighting is often overlooked when discussing wedding décor. This is unfortunate because lighting can have a significant impact on the look and feel of your wedding for a relatively small investment. The proper lighting can transform an ordinary room into a stunning work of art. In addition to transforming the room, different types and colors of lighting can create different atmospheres and moods throughout the course of the evening. Read more
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