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Wedding guide to door County

For a minute, just close your eyes and envision your perfect wedding day. Where do you see the ceremony taking place? Is it near the shimmering waterfront on a sun-drenched summer day or nestled within a historic church? Perhaps it’s in front of a scenic vista as the sun begins to set leaving the sky awash in soft hues of blue, amber, and pink. Maybe it takes place surrounded by the vivid spring blossoms of a lakefront garden. Is the reception under the stars in the quiet countryside, under a canopy of lush green trees, in a lavish banquet hall, or at a posh resort? 300 miles of breathtaking shoreline, a variety of charming venues and unique options to rest and relax are just a few of the reasons couples declare Door County the ideal location for their special day. From simple to extravagant, traditional to unique — a Door County wedding is sure to be all you could ever imagine and so much more! Expect nothing but the best and rest assured that’s just what you’ll discover. Come see what all the fuss is about and make your wedding dreams a reality in a place like nowhere else.

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Weddings involve a significant amount of planning. From florists to music and entertainment, photographers, transportation and officiants — there can be an overwhelming amount to take care of. But rest assured, Door County’s enthusiastic, dedicated service professionals are here to help you figure out all the fine details.

• Professional Wedding Planners • Catering • Bakeries • Florists • Stationary • Jewelers • Music & Entertainment• Photography & Videography • Transportation • Spa & Beauty Services • Officiants

For more information on wedding services available in Door County, visit www.DoorCounty.com/Weddings.

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Congratulations! You said YES - you’re getting married! Whether it’s a large wedding or small, there is always some planning to be done. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we have you covered. From 9 - 12 months before the date, down to the final days beforehand and beyond, this comprehensive timeline checklist will help you stay on track.

9 - 12 months priorq Announce your engagementq Choose the date of your weddingq Reserve venues for the ceremony and receptionq Create a wedding binder to keep everything organizedq Determine the budget and who will cover the cost of whatq Select the members of your wedding partyq Decide the style and formality of your day (formal, semi-formal, informal, etc.)q Research photographers, florists, bakers, caterers, and entertainmentq Begin drafting the guest listq If you wish, throw an engagement party to celebrate

6-9 months priorq Hire a wedding photographer and videographerq Book entertainment (DJ, band, etc.)q Hire a catering serviceq Register for giftsq Reserve over-night accommodations for out-of-town guests

(price ranges should vary)q Book an officiantq Select the bridesmaids dresses and corresponding accessoriesq Begin shopping for your dream dress and accessoriesq Book the honeymoon

4-6 months priorq Make arrangements for rental items (flatware, china, tents, chairs, etc.)q Select and order wedding invitationsq Order the wedding cakeq Speak with your caterer regarding menu optionsq Choose the wedding favorsq Confirm the bridesmaids have ordered their dresses and accessoriesq Decide the style of the groom’s tux and what the groomsmen will wearq Compile ideas for how your hair will be styled and your makeup will be doneq Confirm the dates of your bridal shower and bachelor/bachelorette partiesq Organize any additional help and management staff (readers, musicians,

babysitters, etc.)q If you wish, secure wedding insuranceq Purchase your wedding rings

2-4 months priorq Select the location of the rehearsal dinner and finalize plans for the eveningq Finalize the guest listq Mail the wedding invitations (approx. 8 weeks before the wedding date)q Finalize the menu with your catering serviceq Select music for the ceremony and receptionq Book a hairstylist and makeup artistq Confirm tuxes for the groom and groomsmen have been orderedq Make transportation arrangements for you, the wedding party and guests as

neededq Purchase gifts for each other, the wedding party, your parents, and the host/

hostesses of your parties (wedding shower, bachelor, bachelorette)q Check the gift registry to be sure there are enough options remainingq Organize bank accounts, insurance, and the merging of your financesq Begin preparing for your honeymoon

1-2 months priorq Go in for a bridal gown fitting and schedule a final fitting 1-2 weeks prior to your

big dayq Design the wedding programs and have them printedq Finalize the ceremony with the officiantq Make arrangements for any “pre-wedding” partiesq Write vowsq Prepare a list of photo and video shots for the photographer/videographerq Check the requirements for a marriage license in your stateq Finalize all details with wedding service providersq Begin planning the seating arrangement for the reception

3-4 Weeks priorq Obtain a marriage license (no more than 30 days before the wedding)q Make name change arrangementsq Send invitations for the rehearsal dinnerq Meet with the hairstylist and makeup artist to discuss looksq Confirm accommodations with out-of-town guests

1-2 Weeks priorq Make all final payments as neededq Go in for a final bridal gown fittingq Finalize the wedding schedule and distribute it as needed (parents, vendors, etc.)q Pick-up the wedding dress and organize all accessoriesq Compile a contact list of all wedding vendors in case of emergencyq Reconfirm all the plans for your big day (ceremony and reception venues, florists,

photographer/videographer, entertainment, catering service, etc.)q Provide the catering service with a final head countq Provide the wedding party and guests with an itinerary and maps if neededq Put someone in charge of your pets, mail, etc. while you’re away on your

honeymoonq Finalize seating arrangements for the reception and prepare place cardsq Make “wedding” and “reception” boxesq Confirm rental and floral orders along with their deliveriesq Begin packing for the wedding night and honeymoon

the day priorq Prepare payment envelopes and allocate who is responsible for each oneq Give rings to the best manq Gather the wedding dress and accessories q Pamper yourself — go to the salon for a manicure, pedicure, and massageq Rehearse the ceremony with the officiant and wedding partyq Confirm honeymoon arrangements

the big dayq Get your hair styled and makeup doneq Confirm the rings and wedding license are present

after the Weddingq Have your wedding dress cleaned and preservedq Preserve your bouquetq Write and send out thank you notes to all guestsq Complete the name change processq Finalize albums/videos with the photographer/videographer

Wedding Checklist

Take a romantic walk along the shore, all along the western coast of the peninsula you are sure to catch an incredible view of the sun setting over the water that will serve as a beautiful setting for your proposal.

Tour a winery, sip the spirit of Door County and walk amongst the cherry blossoms before dropping down to one knee.

Let the stunning scenery found at any one of our five gorgeous state parks or 19 county parks serve as a charming location to propose. Consider Sven’s Bluff at Peninsula State Park which offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding islands or Cave Point County Park where the relentless waters of Lake Michigan have created spectacular sea caves.

Rent a sail boat, pontoon boat, or charter a cruise around the peninsula and surrounding islands for a serene, dreamy wedding proposal on the open water surrounding Door County.

Climb one of three lookout towers in Door County and revel in the awe-inspiring surroundings before presenting the little black box you have tucked away.

You’ve found the love of your life! You are planning to “pop” the big question. The ring is tucked away in its black velvet case. Your heart races just thinking about it. You want it to be perfect, it’s a moment you’ll both remember for the rest of your lives. So how are you going to do it? Why not surprise your significant other with a little getaway? From majestic, waterfront escapes to a quiet candle lit dinner for two with a view of the setting sun, Door County is the perfect location for the romantic proposal of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Pack a going away bag, get out of town for a few days, and don’t forget the ring!

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Express your sense of adventure with a zip line excursion, kayak tour, or spend the day water skiing.

Jump on the wine trail where you will discover seven wineries proud to offer you and your guests a sample of the region’s finest.

Play a round of golf at one of 11 meticulously maintained courses that wind through old orchards and give way to sprawling water views.

Rent a pontoon boat, go sailing or charter fishing - relax on the open water and celebrate as you coast along the scenic shoreline.

Take a cooking class, from expert to beginner, there’s something for everyone to discover and groups are always welcome! Bring your appetite and awaken your taste buds with a gourmet experience you’ll all treasure forever.

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Tired of the same old bachelor/bachelorette parties? If you’re in search of something more, something different to make it extra special and break free from the ordinary — set your sights on Door County! Reserve your stay at one of our fine resorts, vacation homes, cottages, inns, or campgrounds then gather your friends and family for the experience of a lifetime. There’s breweries to tour, wine to sample, fish to be caught and so much more.

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It’s finally arrived! You’ve been planning, anticipating, and poring over the details since the day you laid eyes on your engagement ring. Everything is just as you imagined it. In just a few minutes you will be walking down the aisle to meet your best friend and say your vows. The limo just pulled up in front of the hotel. You take one final glance in the mirror — this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Whether it’s a small gathering or a grand affair, set the tone for your big day of wedded bliss by selecting the perfect location and theme. From traditional to nautical, extravagant and beyond — the possibilities are endless in a place like nowhere else.

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For those of you who seek something on the traditional side, consider having your ceremony at one of two historic Moravian churches overlooking Eagle Harbor in Ephraim. This sleepy village is where you’ll find old world charm and stunning natural beauty that goes unsurpassed. Or perhaps one of many modern churches dotted along the countryside and nestled within the unique communities throughout Door County would suit the occasion better. Explore your options, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

If it’s a charming, rustic ceremony and laid back reception with a touch of country flair that you seek, Door County is definitely the right fit for your event. There are plenty of options to suit your style from restored barns, orchards, gardens, and more! Imagine your ceremony on the grounds of an art gallery tucked within the peaceful countryside or amongst the cherry blossoms of spring. Hold the reception outdoors under a grand tent or on the private grounds of a rental home on the tranquil lakefront. Envision you and your guests dancing the night away under twinkling lights that illuminate the wood floor of a historic barn. End the evening with a bonfire where guests can toast marshmallows for s’mores.

Door County’s heritage is steeped in maritime tradition making it a prime location to host a nautical themed wedding. With 53 beaches and 11 historic lighthouses located along 300 miles of breathtaking shoreline, there are numerous locations perfect for tying the knot with a splash of nautical style. For those of you seeking something intimate, perhaps a ceremony on the open water is something to consider. Rent a boat and take your closest friends and family for a cruise at sunset while you declare your vows. Have your ceremony in nostalgic Ephraim and enjoy an amazing view of Eagle Harbor as you walk down the aisle at Anderson Dock. You can even say your “I do’s” atop a lighthouse with your guests gathered below. Anchors aweigh!

So you’re pulling out all the stops and hosting a magnificent evening of celebration? Well look no further than Door County for fancy frills and elegant escapes. Select the church of your choice, a lush golf course, romantic garden, or rent a private home on the shore for your ceremony. Perhaps you would rather have the ceremony and reception in one location, with a variety of fine resorts, you’re sure to find the ideal location. Allow Door County’s expert chefs to create culinary masterpieces for you and your guests to savor as a live band carries the celebratory spirit on into the night. Make it a weekend event your guests will never forget with a variety of recreational activities from sailing to horseback riding, mini golf, shopping and more!

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Take a day to escape to the spa together. Melt away the demands of everyday life and soothe sore muscles with a couple’s massage or try acupuncture. Door County is where you’ll find a variety of professional, welcoming spas offering the perfect mix of rest and relaxation for you both.

Attend a concert. From symphony to big band jazz, reggae and classic rock, to country and folk, Door County is a eclectic cultural hotspot that draws world-renowned musicians to perform in our intimate auditoriums and outdoor venues.

Take the ferry to Washington Island. Spend the day exploring the area by moped or hop aboard the Cherry Train for a tour of one of the oldest Icelandic communities in the United States. Perhaps you’d rather stay awhile — bask in the peace and quiet of the island with a variety of lodging options guaranteed to suit all tastes and budgets.

Do something adventurous together. Rent jet-skis, try parasailing, soar through the tree tops on a zip line or go sky diving.

Join us year round for seasonal celebrations. If your honeymoon is in the spring, celebrate the cherry blossoms and blooms, enjoy art and craft fairs and much more! If you plan on arriving in summer, there’s a variety of events held to celebrate the culture, bounty, and spirit of the season. As fall arrives and the trees begin to turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange, we gather outdoors to welcome harvest in communities throughout the County. The cool, crisp winter months don’t stop us either, come join the friendly faces of Door County for candlelit ski and hiking events.

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Once you and your love have tied the knot you’ll both be ready for some time away. For the romance, rest, and relaxation you seek as newlyweds, look no further than Door County. Stay at a whimsical bed & breakfast or rent a secluded vacation home. Take a scenic airplane tour, hop aboard segways and explore the County or simply bask in the beauty and tranquility of the Peninsula and surrounding islands! This is a time to cherish and make memories that will last a lifetime. With a variety of lodging packages designed to suit your newlywed needs, why wait?

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Cruise 66 scenic miles known as the Door County Coastal Byway. Stop and visit state parks, county parks, historic lighthouses, and orchards as you meander. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll be astounded by scenic vistas of Lake Michigan, the Bay of Green Bay, the Niagara Escarpment, and dense forests that lie along the way. Pull over and walk the streets of quaint towns and villages where you will find shops, galleries, theaters and more!

Rent a kayak and paddle along the Niagara Escarpment. Keep your eyes open for Bald Eagles as you take in the view of limestone cliffs and fern covered bluffs that tower overhead. For those less experienced, join a group tour and explore the sea caves of Cave Point County Park located on Lake Michigan.

From Shakespeare’s classics to the smash hits of Broadway and original theater, your trip to Door County isn’t complete without an evening at one of the county’s renowned theatrical venues. With settings ranging from main street downtown to shoreside stages nestled under the trees, the performing arts are a staple of our culture and entertainment that you simply cannot miss.

Attend a traditional Door County Fish Boil to see what visitors, travel columnists and foodies worldwide are talking about. Perhaps it’s the fiery display that occurs when the pot boils over signaling dinner is ready. Maybe it’s the fresh locally harvested whitefish that have made this time-honored tradition carry on for generations. Either way, everyone agrees it’s not only a sight to see but also a flavor to savor!

Spend a day sampling all the treats, treasures and culinary creations Door County has to offer. Taste locally produced artisan cheese, sip wine produced from fruit and grapes grown right here on the Peninsula and indulge in fresh made fudge. Step foot in an oilerie for a complimentary taste test of a world famous olive oil varietal or a flavorful balsamic vinegar. Try Door County cherry products ranging from dried cherries to donuts, salsa, barbecue sauce and more!

Whether you’re celebrating one year of marriage, three years, or thirty — Door County is the perfect location to mark your wedded milestone. Take a chance to get away from the demands of day-to-day life with your loved one and travel to Door County for the perfect balance of rest, romance, and adventure. Book a night, a weekend, a week or more! Enjoy each other’s company while exploring all Door County has to offer and live in the moment. Camp in the quiet countryside or on the waterfront. Cozy up at a bed and breakfast or unwind in luxury at a resort. Whatever your taste and budget, Door County is sure to offer you and yours some of the most unforgettable memories.

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Make your wedding dreams a reality in a place like nowhere else. For additional information call the Door County Visitor Bureau at 800.527.3529 or visit DoorCounty.com/weddings and be sure to stay up-to-date

on all things wedding related by following our Door County Wedding Insider.

DoorCounty.com | 800.527.3529 | info@doorcounty.comDo

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