I’m realizing I’m doing a very good job of screening my brides so they are the most amazing human beings out there. The more I get to know them, the more I realize these are women I would be lucky to call friends! Justine is one of my fabulous brides. I’m pretty sure between the fact that she’s my red-headed twin and we pretty much love the same things, she’s one of the sweetest brides I’ve worked with.

We sat down at Betty Dangers, with champagne, and talked WEDDING!

1. When is the wedding, how many guests, what are the venues?

September 29th, 2017!  150 guests.  Ceremony, Cocktail Hour, and Reception is at Minneapolis Event Centers in the Riverside Room!

2. What has been the most stressful part of wedding planning?

I am proud to say that it hasn’t been too stressful for me!  In my opinion, the tiny details help create a more personal and intimate gathering, but they aren’t necessary for a successful wedding.  Whatever small detail doesn’t get done, I will probably be the only person to notice, and everyone will still have a great time!  Wedding planning is all about perspective, you can make it as stressful as you want.  My advice is to check off the big items and anything else you accomplish is a bonus.

3. What are you most excited for for the wedding day?

I live to plan and host, and I find it incredibly satisfying to see months of planning come together and your guests enjoying the atmosphere you created.  Oh, and marrying my fiance!  And looking fabulous!

4. Biggest tip you’d give to someone about to have their engagement session?

Don’t judge, but two drinks prior was our sweet spot before to loosen up!  Also, now is the time to try out those modeling looks you’ve always wanted to.  It’s a great opportunity to realize that is NOT your angle, or your “serious” face needs SERIOUS work.

5. Favorite thing about working with Poly?

She’s not just another wedding vendor on our list and she’s more than our photographer at this point.  Poly’s work speaks for itself, but her bubbly personality and driven-nature truly sets her apart.  It doesn’t hurt that we have the same taste in just about everything too!

BONUS: Any additional tips?  

• An easy way to cut costs is to borrow wedding accessories from a friend, or buy secondhand (veil, jewelry, purse, etc).
• Keep your decor to pass on to a friend after, or sell it!
• Put date/wedding planning days on the calendar with your significant other.  Keep them involved and make the experience fun and light!
• At the very beginning of planning, sit down with your fiance and discuss the past 5 weddings you’ve been to.  Make a list of whatever you liked or didn’t like to start forming your own style.
• Support small businesses!  This will likely save you money and make it a more personal experience.
• We were on the fence about adding to our budget with a videographer.  We found a friend of a friend who is in the early stages of her career.  It is a win-win, she will build her portfolio and we save money!