GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS BY: GHISLAINE “GIGI” VAN DE LAARSCHOT

CERTIFIED WEDDING & EVENT PLANNER

CWEP PROJECT#2

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS

GG Weddings & Events is a wedding planning service company that offers its services

to the future brides and grooms in the Greater Boston Area.

The owner, Ghislaine “Gigi” van de Laarschot, has recently started her own wedding &

events company after being certified as a Professional Wedding Planner by Lovegevity

Wedding Planning Institute. Even though she is new in the industry, she has a passion for

planning the day/event of your dreams. Unofficially, she has planned many events over the

years that have run successfully.

In addition, she has a Master’s in Business Administration focusing on marketing,

management and entrepreneurship and a Bachelor’s in Music Business attributing to her creative

attention to detail. Using a website, Facebook, Instagram and especially word of mouth from

vendors and clients, Gigi will market herself. The target market is couples who are hoping to

create a unique wedding (special details, themed weddings, destination weddings).

MISSION STATEMENT GG Weddings & Events is a full-service wedding and special event company featuring original

designs, with principles based upon integrity, excellent service, and high moral & ethical

standards.

SERVICES GG Weddings & Events offers an initial consultation at no charge. Topics at his consultation

include all of your personal planning services needs and choosing a package that fits your

personal requirements. At the time that you decide to retain our services a security deposit is

required (listed and will be deducted from the total cost of the package you choose.

GOAL The goal at GG Weddings & Events is to make the event planning process stress free, seamless

and highlighting each person’s individual personalities to reflect in the final product.

Contact us: Email: gslaarschot@gmail.com

Telephone: 617 650 2624

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Once a client calls or emails GG Weddings & Events the call will be returned within 2-5 hours

and an initial meeting will be scheduled.

The meeting will take place at an agreed location. GG Weddings & Events will cover the cost of

the initial meeting with the client and obtain all needed information from the potential clients.

It is encouraged that the bride and fiancé both attend the first meeting and anyone else who may

be involved in the decision-making process.

During the meeting the following a questionnaire will be provided that will help both parties

narrow down wants, expectations, desires and needs.

At the end of the meeting the bride will receive:

❖ Contact Information

❖ Available Packages and Additional Services Offered

1. Name of Bride-to-be: __________________________

______________________________________________

Phone number: __________________________________

Email: ________________________________________

2. Name of Groom-to-be: _________________________

______________________________________________

Phone number: _________________________________

Email: ________________________________________

3. Current Address:

4. Future Address:

5. Age:

a. 18 – 24 b. 25 – 30 e. Over 45

c. 31 – 35 d. 36 – 45

6. Income:

a. Under $30,000 b. $31,000 - $50,000

c. $51,000 -$75,000 d. $76,000 -$100,000

e. Over $100,000

7. City of Wedding:

8. Wedding Date:

9. Time of Ceremony:

10. Time of Reception:

11. Bride’s heritage (optional):

12. Groom’s heritage (optional):

13. Wedding Budget:

a. Under $10,000 b. $10,001 - $15,000

c. $15,001 - $20,000 d. $20,001 - $25,000

e. Over $25,000

14. Number of guests: _____________

Used for price per person estimates, such as invitations,

catering, and cake.

15. How many hotel rooms are needed?

16. What type of wedding is planned?

a. Very Formal c. Semi-Formal e. Other

b. Formal d. Informal

17. Select two words from the following list that best

describes your wedding day vision:

a. Elegant b. Simple c. Party

d. Celebration e. Grand f. Traditional

g. Romantic h. Sophisticated i. Glamorous

j. Contemporary k. Hip l. Funky

m. Vintage n. Magical o. Festive

p. Conservative

18. How many bridesmaids, including the

Maid of Honor?

a. 1-3 b. 4-6

c. 7-10 d. 10 or more

19. How many groomsmen/ushers,

including the Best Man?

a. 1-3 b. 4-6

c. 7-10 d. 10 or more

20. Will you have a flower girl/s? If so, how many? a.

1-2 b. 3-4

21. Will you have a ring bearer?

a. Yes b. No

22. Your favorite primary color is:

a. Red b. Yellow c. Blue

23. Your favorite secondary color is:

Green Purple Orange

24. Your favorite intermediate color is:

a. Magenta b. Teal c. Gold

d. Lime green e. Red-orange f. Indigo

25. Your favorite achromatic color is:

a. Black b. White c. Brown

26. Your favorite pastel color is:

a. None b. Pink c. Purple d. Blue e. Yellow f. Peach g. Green h. All

27. Your favorite accent colors are:

a. Tan, taupe, champagne

b. Black, platinum, sterling (silver)

c. Chocolate, latte, espresso

d. Purple, plum, lavender, lilac

e. Navy, indigo

f. Light blue, periwinkle

g. Peach, coral, cantaloupe

h. Red, cinnamon, apple

i. Light green, mint green, sea green

28. Your favorite wedding gown designers are:

(Choose all that apply)

29. Wedding gown color:

a. Blue White

b. Natural White

c. Cram

d. Ivory

e. Other

30. Wedding gown Style:

a. Length:

i. Full

ii. Ankle

iii. Knee

b. Fabric: (Choose two per season)

i. Spring/Summer

1. Chiffon

2. Lightweight lace

3. Silk Charmeuse

4. Eyelet Linen

5. Lightweight satin

6. Organza

ii. Fall/Winter

1. Velvet

2. Heavy lace

3. Brocade

4. Rich taffeta

5. Satin

c. Silhouette:

i. A-line

ii. Ball gown

iii. Basque waist

iv. Empire

v. Sheath

vi. Mermaid

d. Sleeve Options:

i. Strapless

ii. Spaghetti straps

iii. Off the shoulder

iv. Three-quarter length

v. Cap

vi. Fitted point

e. Neckline

i. Bateau

ii. Décolletage

iii. Halter

iv. Jewel

v. Off-the-shoulder

vi. Sweetheart

vii. Scoop

viii. V-neck

ix. Wedding Band Collar

Alfred Angelo Alfred Sung Alvina Valeta

Alyce Amy Lee Avica Bridal

Anjolique Bari Jay Belsoie

Bill Levkoff Bonny MT Bridal Originals

Champagne Formals

Christos Demetrios

Desssy Diamond Bridal Emme

Fashion 1001 Nights

Forever Yours Guzzo

Ian Stuart Impression Bridal Jasmine Bridal

Jacqueline Bridal

Jessica McClintock

Jim Hjelm

Jordan Fashions

Lamour Bridals Lazaro

Lestella Little Angels Lizette

Maggie Sottero Marisa Melissa Sweet

Mon Cheri Monique Montique

Moonlight Mori Lee New Image

Paloma Bianca P.C. Mary's Private Label

Pronovias Rena Koh Sweetheart

Gowns

Venus Bridals Vera Wang Victoria's Bridal

Watters & Watters

Not Sure Other:

31. Headpiece Style:

a. None b. Tiara c. Headband d. Wreath

32. Veil Style:

a. None b. Blusher c. Fingertip

d. Ballerina e. Sweeping f. Cathedral

33. Bridal Shoes:

a. Sneakers b. Ballet Slippers c. Strappy Sandals

d. Open Back Slings e. Other

34. Accessories: (Choose all that apply)

a. Gloves b. Garter c. Handkerchief

d. Jewelry e. Purse f. Wrap

35. Stationery: (Match to answers regarding style)

a. Paper:

i. Linen

ii. Vellum

iii. Parchment

iv. Jacquard

v. Corrugated

vi. Handmade paper

vii. Glassine

viii. Rice paper

b. Printing:

i. Engraved invitations

ii. Thermography

iii. Offset printing

iv. Letterpress

v. Calligraphy

c. Wording:

i. Traditional Wording

1. Mr. and Mrs. Jones, the parents of Alicia

Jones, request the honor…

ii. Contemporary Wording

1. We invite you to join us in celebrating…

36. Reception: (Match to answers regarding vendor

preferences)

a. Indoor b. Outdoor c. Both

37. Catering: (Choose all that apply)

a. Seated/plated dinner b. Buffet

c. Appetizers only d. Champagne and Cake only

38. Cake:

a. Style:

i. Contemporary

ii. Fun

iii. Traditional

iv. Simple

v. Elegant

vi. Other

b. Flavor:

i. Vanilla

ii. Chocolate

iii. Other

39. Flowers: (Choose two per season of your wedding date)

a. Winter:

Amaryllis Baby's Breath Carnations

Cattleya Orchids

Chrysanthemum Daisies

Orchid Roses Spay Orchid

b. Spring:

Amaryllis Anemones Baby's Breath

Calla Lily Carnations Cattleya Orchids

Daffodils Day Lily Delphinium

Freesia Forget-me-knot Gardenias

Iris Jonquil Liliac

Lily Lily of the Valley

Larkspur

Orchid Peony Ranunculus

Roses Sweetpea Tulip

Violet

c. Summer:

Aster Baby's Breath Bachelor

Buttons

Calla Lily Canterbury Bells

Carnations

Cattleya Orchids

Chrysanthemum Daisies

Day Lily Delphinium Geranium

Hydrangea Larkspur Iris

Lily Orchid Roses

Stephanotis Straw Flowers Zephyr Lily

d. Fall:

Aster Anemones Baby's Breath

Calla Lily Carnations Cattleya Orchids

Chrysanthemum Daisies Day Lily

Delphinium Orchid Roses

Zephyr Lily Zinnia

40. Photography Style:

a. Traditional b. Photojournalistic c. Storybook

d. Combination

41. Ceremony Location:

a. Indoor:

i. Religious facility

ii. Hall

iii. Special Venue

b. Outdoor:

i. Garden

ii. Backyard

iii. Special Venue

42. Ceremony Music:

a. Processional:

i. Live singer / soloist

ii. String Quartet

iii. Classical (i.e. Canon in D)

iv. Other

b. Here Comes the Bride

c. Recessional:

i. Live singer / soloist

ii. String Quartet

iii. Classical (i.e. Canon in D)

iv. Other

43. Reception Music:

a. Live Band

i. Jazz

ii. Contemporary

iii. Rock

iv. Country

v. Combination

b. Disc Jockey

i. Oldies

ii. Top 40

iii. Rock

iv. Country

v. Combination

c. String Quartet

i. Classical

ii. New Age

iii. Combination

44. Transportation

Sedan / Town Car Limousine Van

Mini Bus Motor Coach Limousine Coach

Excalibur Rolls Royce Stretch Hummer

Stretch Navigator

Truck Limousine

Mercedes Sedan

Trolley Horse & Carriage

Beetle Limousine

Other

45. Videography:

a. Budget: $

b. Style:

i. One Camera

ii. Two Cameras

iii. Cinema Style

46. Wedding Planner:

a. Planner b. Coordinator c. Director

d. All Services

47. Decorations/Favors/Extras: (Choose all that apply)

a. Dove release b. Sand ceremony c. Guest favors

d. Gift baskets e. Bubbles

f. Rose petal paper cones g. Ice sculpture

h. Other

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS Packages & Pricing

TIER 1 ESSENTIAL PACKAGE: $750

❖ A PACKAGE FOR THOSE WHO NEED A LITTLE HELP GETTING STARTED, OR

AT ANY OTHER POINT WHEN ASSISTANCE IS IN NEED.

❖ INCLUDES UP TO THREE HOURS OF CONSULTATION REGARDING YOUR

PLANNING

❖ ADVICE REGARDING VENDORS REGARDING THE CONTRACTS

❖ UNLIMITED BASIC EMAIL & TELEPHONE QUESTIONS

❖ FULL PAYMENT REQUIRED AT SIGNING OF CONTRACT

TIER 2 HAPPY MEDIUM PACKAGE: $1500

❖ A PACKAGE FOR THOSE WHO WANT PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE ONLY ON

THE DAY OF THEIR WEDDING

❖ ALL FEATURES IN TIER 1 ESSENTIAL

❖ REVIEW ALL VENDOR CONTRACTS & CONFIRM ALL VENDOR SERVICES 1-2

WEEKS PRIOR TO WEDDING DAY

❖ ASSIST TO DEVELOP WEDDING DAY ITINERARY

❖ SERVICES TO NOT EXCEED 12 HOURS ON DAY OF WEDDING

❖ VISION OF A PLAN B IN CASE OF WEDDING EMERGENCY (ADDITIONAL

CHARGES APPLY FOR OUTSIDE VENUES)

❖ $250 DEPOSIT OF SIGNING CONTRACT, WITH BALANCE DUE DAY OF

WEDDING

TIER 3 GARLAND PACKAGE: $3000

❖ A PACKAGE FOR THOSE WHO NEED FULL ASSISTANCE WITH PLANS

❖ ALL FEATURES IN TIER 2 HAPPY MEDIUM

❖ INCLUDES A WEDDING PLANNING BINDER WITH TIPS, QUESTIONS TO ASK

VENDORS, TIMELINE GUIDES, INSERTS FOR CONTRACTS, BUSINESS CARDS,

PHOTOS & OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

❖ UP TO 10 HOURS OF CONSULTATION REGARDING PLANNING

❖ REFERRAL OF VENDORS

❖ ONE VISIT TO YOUR CEREMONY AND RECEPTION VENUE PRIOR TO

WEDDING (TRAVEL CHARGES MAY APPLY)

❖ $500 DEPOSIT AT SIGNING OF CONTRACT WITH BALANCES DUE ONE-WEEK

PRIOR TO WEEDING

TIER 4 CROWNING JEWEL PACKAGE: $5000 & UP ❖ AN ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDING PACKAGE

❖ INCLUDES ALL THE DETAILS OF ALL THE ABOVE LISTED PACKAGES

❖ COORDINATOR ATTENDANCE & ASSISTANCE AT CEREMONY REHEARSAL

❖ PERSONAL MANAGEMENT OF WEDDING VENDORS, WEDDING DAY

ITINERARY, AND BRIDAL PARTY

❖ $1000 DEPOSIT AT SIGNING OF CONTRACT WITH BALANCES DUE ONE-

WEEK PRIOR TO WEDDING

PRE-WEDDING SERVICES:

❖ ENGAGEMENT PARTY- $500 & UP

❖ BRIDAL SHOWER- $500 & UP

❖ BACHLORETTE PARTY- $250 & UP

❖ BACHELOR PARTY- $250 & UP

❖ REHEARSAL DINNER - $500 & UP

À-LA-CARTE SERVICES: $75/hour

❖ Assist in the design & delivery of unique welcome gift baskets

❖ Accommodation & Transportation arrangements

❖ Addressing and mailing invitations

❖ Assemble wedding favors

❖ Assistance in choosing wedding attire

❖ Wedding night suite decoration

❖ Coordinating clean up at venues

❖ Attending vendor appointments

❖ Wedding website design/management (w/guest RSVP)

❖ Budget creation, tracking and payment reminders

❖ Jumping Brooms (rental or custom design)

❖ Planning a pre or post wedding day activity

❖ Mr. & Mrs. Signs (rental or custom design)

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS Day of Services Contract

[Today’s Date]

[Bride’s Name]

[Groom’s Name]

[Address]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

Dear [Bride and Groom], this letter follows our meeting on [Date], during which we discussed

your wedding and my professional role in helping you plan it.

It is my understanding that, you will retain me as a [Professional Wedding Consultant / Wedding

Day Coordinator] for your wedding scheduled on [Date].

In this packet you will find the topics we have discussed:

• Description of Services

• Conditions

If your understanding parallels mine, please sign one copy of this letter and return it to me along

with your payment in the amount of $__________.

I wish you all the happiness in the world and look forward to working with you to make your

wedding the most enjoyable and memorable day of your life.

Sincerely,

___________________________________

Wedding Planner’s Signature Accepted:

Bride’s Name ___________________ Groom’s Name __________________________

Bride’s Signature ___________________ Groom’s Signature __________________________

Date: ___________________________

Description of Services As a Consultant my duties include:

• [# of] consultations with you via telephone/email

• Assistance in budget determination and breakdown as needed

• Discussion of theme, color, style and complete wedding design

• Research of wedding professionals in each category that fit your event style and budget

and to provide you with suggestions and guidance in making the final selections

• Attendance at [# of] vendor appointments of your choice

• Up to [# of] hours of professional in-person consultation time throughout the planning

process

As Wedding Day Coordinator my duties include:

• Visit to both ceremony and reception sites prior to wedding

• Development of a detailed wedding timeline and floor plan for contracted vendors and

bridal party

• Follow up telephone calls to all contracted vendors 1- 2 weeks before wedding day

• Wedding Rehearsal Supervision ([#of] hours maximum)

• On-site coordination and supervision at the ceremony site and during the reception for up

to [# of] hours on the day of your wedding

• An additional event manager, on site, the day of the wedding

*Please note that the services listed above do not include running any wedding related errands

such as picking up or delivering attire, supplies or equipment, documents, etc.

**As the client, you will rely on me to work as many hours as may be reasonably necessary to

fulfill my obligations under this agreement.

Conditions I understand that my role will be that of advisor and coordinator. You will make the actual

selections of service providers and I will implement those selections. − You will make payments

directly to the service providers/vendors and not to me. I do not accept any commissions from

recommended vendors and cannot guarantee any service provider’s performance or product. If

litigation occurs, it occurs in the jurisdiction where my office is located, and the winning party

will be reimbursed for attorney and legal fees and court costs.

• It is your responsibility to provide me with contact names, telephone numbers and any

scheduled timetables for all service providers involved in the wedding

ceremony/reception no later than 14 days prior to the wedding or upon the signing of this

letter.

• It is also your responsibility to notify me of any changes in a timely manner. I shall not

be held liable for any changes made by you or your selected service providers.

• I will use my professional judgment when taking action in regard to changes, weather,

tardiness, nonperformance, etc. based on the situation, time limitations and/or your

wishes.

• In the event a venue coordinator is on site I will work with you and the coordinator as

needed. Fees & Payment Schedule For my services you will pay me a total of

$_________. Payment will be made as follows: A non-refundable retainer in the amount

of $________ - upon signature of this letter of agreement $________ due on

_______________ (Date) $________ due on ________________ (Date) (ten days prior

to your wedding date)

Termination:

This agreement will terminate automatically upon completion of the services required by this

letter of agreement.

Changes/Cancellations:

Any changes made to this letter of agreement must be made in writing and signed by all parties.

You may cancel this agreement, in writing, for any reason. If the wedding is canceled, refunds

are limited to unearned fees, funds in excess of unused or non-refundable fees and out-of-pocket

expenses. If you cancel less than 10 days before the wedding – except for the death of a member

of your immediate family – there will be no refund. If the wedding is not canceled, there will be

no refund.

Acts of God If an act of God, such as a fire, flood, earthquake or other natural calamity shall

cause you to cancel your wedding; I will require payment only for the time actually spent

planning your wedding.

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS Marriage Licenses Info

Before the Wedding: ❖ Who, How, What?

❖ http://blog.mass.gov/blog/home/getting-married-in-massachusetts-before-the-wedding/

What is the fee for a marriage certificate copy?

❖ The fee is $65.00 per marriage certificate copy.

❖ For Priority Handling: There is an additional fee of $15.00 per marriage certificate copy.

❖ Must be paid and submitted in person.

How long will it take?

❖ Internet or telephone requests receive priority handling and are processed within five (5)

to ten (10) business days of receipt. The cost is$45.00 per copy ordered plus $8.00 (per

transaction) vendor processing fee. If you chose to have the copy returned to you by UPS

overnight delivery, there is an additional UPS fee of $15.50.

❖ Mail requests ordered with priority handling ($45.00 per copy ordered) are currently

processed within two (2) to four (4) weeks from when they are received. Submitting the

application to the Vital Records Processing Center by overnight delivery is

recommended. Completed requests will be returned by first class mail unless

a prepaid return mailer for overnight delivery is provided with the request.

❖ Mail requests ordered with regular handling ($30.00 per copy ordered) are currently

processed within ten (10) to twelve (12) weeks from when they are received.

After the Wedding: ❖ Proof, Changing Name, Changing Health Insurance, Filing Taxes etc.

❖ https://blog.mass.gov/blog/government/getting-married-in-massachusetts-after-the-

wedding/

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS Wedding Party Checklists

Maid of Honor: ❖ Helps the bride select bridesmaids’ attire.

❖ Helps address invitations and place cards.

❖ Attends as many prenuptial events as possible (i.e. engagement party, showers)

❖ Organizes bridesmaids’ gift to the bride. Usually gives and individual gift to the couple.

❖ Makes sure that all the bridesmaids, the flower girl, and the ring bearer are at fittings, the

rehearsal, and the ceremony on time.

❖ Is expected to attend the rehearsal and is included at the rehearsal dinner.

❖ Walks in processional and recessional.

❖ Holds the groom’s wedding ring.

❖ Helps with the bride’s gown.

❖ Arranges the bride’s veil and train before the processional and recessional.

❖ Makes sure the bride’s gown is “picture perfect” throughout the day.

❖ Holds the bride’s bouquet during the ceremony.

❖ Witnesses the signing of the marriage certificate.

❖ Stands in the receiving line.

❖ Keeps the bride on schedule.

❖ Helps the bride change into her going away clothes.

❖ Takes care of the bride’s gown and accessories after the reception.

❖ Pays for own wedding attire and transportation to the wedding.

Notes:

Best Man: ❖ Organizes a pre-wedding party for the groom.

❖ Coordinates the ushers’ gift to the groom. Usually gives an individual gift to the couple.

❖ Is expected to attend the rehearsal and is included in the rehearsal dinner.

❖ Gets the groom dressed and to the ceremony on time.

❖ Makes sure the groom’s wedding related expenses are prepared (Officiant fee, tips, etc.)

❖ Makes sure the groom has the marriage license with him.

❖ Delivers any payment to Officiant, sexton, and ceremony musician(s), as prearranged.

❖ Enters the sanctuary with the groom.

❖ Takes care of and holds the bride’s wedding ring.

❖ Makes sure all ushers are properly attired and in place on time.

❖ Walks in the recessional.

❖ Witnesses the signing of the marriage certificate.

❖ Drives the bride and groom to reception, if no driver is hired.

❖ Helps welcome guests at reception.

❖ Offers first toast to bride and groom at reception.

❖ Dances with the bride, maid of honor, mothers, and single female guests.

❖ Helps the groom get ready for the honeymoon.

❖ Gathers up and takes care of groom’s wedding clothes after he changes.

❖ Has a car ready for the bride and groom to leave the reception or perhaps drives them to

next destination.

Notes:

Bridesmaids: ❖ Assist the Maid of Honor as requested.

❖ Attend as many prenuptial events as possible.

❖ Possibly host or co-host a party or shower (optional)

❖ Assist the bride with errands.

❖ Contribute to bridesmaids’ gift to the bride. Usually gives an individual gift to the

couple.

❖ Are expected to attend the rehearsal and are included at the rehearsal dinner.

❖ Arrive at dressing site promptly.

❖ Walk in processional and recessional.

❖ Possibly participate in receiving line.

❖ Dance with ushers and single male guests.

❖ Help gather guests for the first dance, cake cutting, and bouquet toss.

❖ Participate in bouquet toss, if single.

❖ Look after the couple’s elderly relatives or friends.

❖ Pays for own wedding attire and transportation to the wedding.

Notes:

Groomsmen and Ushers: ❖ Participate in party for the groom, if there is one.

❖ Contribute to the ushers’ gift to the groom. Usually gives an individual gift to the couple.

❖ Expected to attend the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner.

❖ Review any special seating situations with the head usher before the ceremony begins.

❖ Greet guests as they arrive.

❖ Seat the eldest women first if a group of guests arrive simultaneously.

❖ Ask guests whether they are to be seated on the bride’s side or the groom’s side.

❖ Offer their right arm to female guests (with the guest’s escort walking behind) or ask

couples to follow behind (leading couple to their seat).

❖ Walk to the left side of a male guest.

❖ Hand each guest a program when they are seated.

❖ Put the aisle runner in place after guests are seated and before the processional begins.

❖ Know the order of seating per tradition such as special guests, grandmothers of the bride

and groom, and bride’s mother last.

❖ Remove pew ribbons, one row at a time, after the ceremony.

❖ Close windows and check pews for programs or articles left behind after the ceremony.

❖ Are prepared to direct guests to the reception site (having extra maps available, if used)

❖ Dance with bridesmaids and other guests at the reception.

❖ Look after elderly relatives or friends.

❖ Participate in garter ceremony, if there is one, and encourage other single men to

participate.

❖ Coordinate return of rented apparel with head usher or best man.

❖ Pay for own wedding attire and transportation to the wedding.

Notes:

Flower Girl: ❖ Dress and accessories should be paid for by her family.

❖ Attends the rehearsal although she usually does not attend the rehearsal dinner.

❖ In the processional, walks alone directly before the bride and her father.

❖ Often scatters petals from a basket she holds, although this is sometimes too

overwhelming a responsibility for a young girl to manage in front of a large group of

people. It is usually easier for her to carry either a small basket of flowers or a tiny

nosegay of flowers similar to those carried by the bridesmaids.

❖ In the recessional, walks with the ring bearer, directly behind the couple.

❖ The bride may hire a babysitter or ask one of the bridesmaids to look after the flower girl,

to be in charge of checking her appearance and making sure she is present for formal

pictures, helping her manage her food at the reception, and escorting her to the ladies

room

Notes:

Ring Bearer: ❖ His attire should be paid for by his family.

❖ Attends the rehearsal although he usually does not attend the rehearsal dinner.

❖ He immediately precedes the flower girl in the processional.

❖ Carries either the actual rings or a facsimile of the rings (often a practical idea), on a

white or satin cushion. If the rings are genuine, they should be fastened to the cushion

with a very thin thread or placed over a firmly fixed hatpin. The best man takes the rings

from the cushion at the right moment.

❖ Walks with the flower girl in the recessional, directly behind the bride and groom.

❖ The bride may hire a babysitter or ask one of the ushers to look after the ring bearer, to

be in charge of checking his appearance, making sure he is present for formal pictures,

helping him manage his food at the reception, and escorting him to the men’s room.

Notes:

Mother of the Bride: ❖ Hosts an engagement party (the bride’s family traditionally gets the first opportunity).

❖ Helps couple to decide on sites or assists in making other big planning decisions.

❖ Usually contributes to the wedding budget.

❖ Assists the bride in putting together the family’s guest list.

❖ Offers suggestions for special family or ethnic ceremony traditions.

❖ May help bride to shop for wedding gown and accessories.

❖ Chooses own wedding day outfit (may consult with mother of the groom about

formality).

❖ Along with the maid of honor and bridesmaids, may plan and host bridal shower.

❖ On wedding day, help bride to get ready.

❖ May accompany daughter and husband to ceremony.

❖ Walk in recessional with husband following wedding party.

❖ Greet guests in receiving line.

❖ May be announced along with husband.

❖ Sits in an honored place at parent’s table.

❖ May assist with coordinating vendors.

❖ May host a post-wedding brunch.

Notes:

Father of the Bride: ❖ Hosts an engagement party (the bride’s family traditionally gets the first opportunity).

❖ Helps couple to decide on sites or assists in making other big planning decisions.

❖ Usually contributes to the wedding budget.

❖ May select hotel for out of town guests and reserve a block of reduced rate rooms.

❖ Rents own formalwear (work with couple to coordinate with wedding party).

❖ Helps pick up out-of-town guests from airport. May also arrange transportation to and

from wedding.

❖ Typically travels to ceremony with the bride.

❖ Walks daughter down the aisle.

❖ Gives the bride away during the ceremony.

❖ Escorts the mother of the bride out following the wedding party.

❖ Greets guests in the receiving line.

❖ May be announced with wife at reception.

❖ May make a welcoming speech.

❖ Sits in an honored place at the parent’s table.

❖ Toasts the newlyweds after the best man makes his speech and the groom responds.

❖ Dances with the bride.

❖ May take care of vendor balances at the end of the reception.

Notes:

Mother of the Groom: ❖ Contacts the mother of the bride if the families are not acquainted (or plans a celebration

if you have met).

❖ Attends (first) engagement party if the bride’s family hosts one.

❖ Along with husband, may host an additional engagement party for the groom’s side of

the family.

❖ Usually contributes to wedding budget.

❖ May help couple decide on sites and/or make other big planning decisions.

❖ Helps group to put together family’s guest list.

❖ Offers suggestions for special family or ethnic ceremony traditions.

❖ May help bride shop for her wedding gown.

❖ Chooses own wedding day outfit (may consult with mother of the bride about formality).

❖ Along with husband, plans and hosts the rehearsal dinner.

❖ Escorted out following the wedding party and the bride’s parents.

❖ Greets guests in the receiving line.

❖ May be announced with husband at the reception.

❖ Sits in an honored place at the parent’s table.

❖ Does mother-son dance with groom.

❖ Attends post-wedding brunch (if held)

Notes:

Father of the Groom: ❖ Attends (first) engagement party, if the bride’s family hosts one.

❖ Along with wife, may host an additional engagement party for groom’s side of the

family.

❖ Along with wife, may contribute to the wedding budget.

❖ May help couple decide on sites and/or make other big planning decisions.

❖ Rents own formalwear (after talking with couple to coordinate with wedding party);

attend fittings as needed.

❖ Along with wife, plans rehearsal dinner.

❖ May travel to ceremony with the groom and the best man.

❖ May escort wife to her seat right before the mother of the bride is seated.

❖ Escorts mother of the groom out after wedding party and bride’s parents.

❖ Greets guests in the receiving line.

❖ May be announced with wife.

❖ May make a welcoming speech.

❖ Sits in an honored place at the parent’s table.

❖ May toast the newlyweds.

❖ May settle final bills with wedding vendors.

❖ Attends or hosts post-wedding brunch.

Notes:

GG WEDDINGS & EVENTS Wedding Timeline Checklist

12+ months before ❖ Envision your wedding and draw up a budget.

❖ Assemble your "planning team."

❖ Pick a wedding date and time. Select several options, then check with your venues,

officiant and important guests before finalizing.

❖ Start planning the guest list.

❖ Look for and book ceremony sites and reception sites.

❖ Ask friends and relatives to be in the wedding party.

❖ Optional: Have an engagement party. You may want to register beforehand for gifts.

8–10 months before ❖ Bride: Think about, shop for and order your gown.

❖ Envision reception food.

❖ Decide what type of entertainment you want. A pianist for the cocktail hour, strolling

violinists, a DJ or band?

❖ Think about your floral décor.

❖ Research and book your wedding professionals. Interview vendors: photographer,

videographer, reception band or DJ, and florist.

❖ Research a wedding insurance policy to protect your deposits.

❖ Research and reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.

❖ Register for gifts.

❖ Contact rental companies if you need to rent anything for the ceremony or reception,

such as chairs, tables and a tent.

6–8 months before

❖ Book ceremony musicians.

❖ Order bridesmaid dresses.

❖ Start planning honeymoon.

❖ Send save-the-date cards. This is a particularly good idea if you're marrying during a

tourist or holiday season or having a destination wedding.

4–6 months before

❖ Attend pre-wedding counseling, if required.

❖ Shop for and order invitations and wedding rings.

❖ Shop for formalwear.

❖ Renew or get passports, if necessary.

❖ Envision your wedding cake and research, interview and book a cake designer.

3 months before ❖ Order wedding cake.

❖ Hire a calligrapher, if you want your invitations professionally addressed.

❖ Attend your shower. (It may be earlier, depending on when your hosts decide to have it.)

❖ Groom: Rent the men's formalwear.

❖ Hire wedding day transport: limousines, other cars. Look into transportation sooner if

you're considering renting streetcars or over-the-top travel.

2 months before

❖ Mail your invitations.

❖ Write your vows.

❖ Purchase gifts for parents, attendants and each other.

❖ Book your stylist and try out wedding day hairstyles.

❖ Book a makeup artist and go for a trial run.

1 month before ❖ Apply for a marriage license. Check with the local bureau in the town where you'll wed.

❖ Bride: Have final gown fitting. Bring your maid of honor along to learn how to bustle

your dress. Have the dress pressed and bring it home.

❖ Call all bridesmaids. Make sure they have their gowns ready for the wedding.

❖ Make last-minute adjustments with vendors.

❖ Create a wedding program to hand out to guests.

❖ Order and plan in-room welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.

2 weeks before

❖ Review final RSVP list and call any guests who have not yet sent a response.

❖ Deliver must-have shot lists to your photographer and videographer. Include who should

be in formal portraits and determine when portraits will be taken.

❖ Deliver final song list to your DJ or bandleader. Include special song requests and songs

you don't want played.

❖ Bride: Get your last pre-wedding haircut and color.

1 week before

❖ Give reception site/caterer final guest head count. Include vendors, such as the

photographer or band members, who will expect a meal. Ask how many extra plates the

caterer will prepare.

❖ Supply location manager with a list of vendor requests such as a table for DJ or setup

space needed for a florist.

❖ Plan reception seating chart.

❖ Print place and table cards, or finalize list with the calligrapher you've hired.

❖ Call all wedding vendors and confirm arrangements.

❖ Give ceremony and reception site managers a schedule of vendor delivery and setup

times, plus contact numbers.

❖ Groom: Get your hair trimmed.

❖ Attend bachelor/ette parties.

2–3 days before ❖ Bride: If you need to, have your gown pressed or steamed.

❖ Groom: Go for final fitting and pick up your formalwear.

❖ Groom: Ask the best man to make sure all groomsmen attend fittings and pick up their

outfits.

❖ Determine wedding party positions during the ceremony and the order of the party in the

processional and recessional.

❖ Hand off place cards, table cards, menus, disposable cameras, favors and any other items

for setting the tables to the caterer and/or reception site manager.

❖ Reconfirm final details with all vendors. Discuss any necessary last-minute substitutions.

❖ Call the limousine or car rental company for pickup times and locations.

❖ Arrange for guests without cars to be picked up from the airport or train station. Ask

friends, attendants or relatives to help.

❖ Deliver welcome baskets to the hotel concierge; include names and delivery instructions.

Day before ❖ Provide all wedding professionals with an emergency phone number to call on the day of

the wedding.

❖ Write checks and/or talk to wedding hosts (usually your parents, if not you) about any

final balances to be paid at the end of the reception.

❖ Rehearse ceremony. Meet with wedding party, ceremony readers, immediate family and

your officiant at the ceremony site to rehearse and iron out the details.

❖ Bring unity candle, aisle runner, yarmulkes or other ceremony accessories to the site.

❖ Give your marriage license to your officiant.

❖ Attend rehearsal dinner.

❖ Present attendants with gifts at the rehearsal dinner. You'll want to do this especially if

the gifts are accessories to be worn during the wedding.

Day of

❖ Present parents and each other with gifts.

❖ Give wedding bands to the best man and maid of honor to hold during the ceremony.

❖ Give best man the officiant's fee envelope, to be handed off after the ceremony.

❖ Introduce your reception site manager to your consultant or maid of honor for questions

or problems during the reception.

❖ Assign a family member or attendant to be the photographer's contact so he/she knows

who's who.

Post wedding ❖ Prearrange for someone to return any rentals.

❖ Preplan for attendants to take the bride's gown for cleaning and return the groom's tux to

the rental shop.

❖ Write and send thank-you notes to gift-bearing guests and vendors who were especially

helpful.