Jennifer and John's Saratoga Wedding
The
Details...
Jennifer and John’s Wedding Team
Destination:
Saratoga Springs, NY
Reception Venue:
The Batcheller Mansion Inn
Caterer:
Black Diamond Caterers
Stationary:
Marijke Janssens
Photographer:
Tracey Buyce
Hidden Gardens
Wedding Cake:
Gourmet Confections
Bella Bites
Desserts:
Lisa Lundquist Creations
Bridal Gown:
The Bridal Garden
Hair Stylist
Timeless Updos
Musicians
The Amherst String Quartet
Rehearsal Dinner:
The Wine Bar of Saratoga
Jennifer and John's Saratoga Wedding
Submitted by Jennifer Price
In my twenties I attended at least a dozen weddings - sometimes as a guest and other times as a bridesmaid or maid of honor (or "MOH"). I relished in my duties and stood by my friends proudly (even if my requisite dress was a bit uncomfortable). While I certainly had plenty of opportunities to take notes for my own "Big Day," when my time came I was a little clueless. Unlike Monica (of Friends fame) I didn't have a wedding book created at the age of five. Somehow, however, on July 11, 2009, I was a happy, stress-free bride. If I can do it, so can you...
Coming from a big family and collecting many close friends from birth to college and the working world, I struggled with how to keep our wedding intimate (and not spend a fortune). After much contemplation we decided to invite our immediate families and one (yes, one!) close friend (plus their significant other*). It seemed an impossible feat (what about Aunt X and Cousin Y?!?!). Ultimately my husband John and I wanted to make a special weekend of our marriage - keeping things small allowed us to concentrate on all the details and do things we couldn't do with a 200-person guest list. In the end, I couldn't have been happier and my mom often asks if we can "do it again."
My point in telling you this - bride-to-be - is that you don't have to do anything that a book says, what your best friend did, or even what your mother-in-law wants you to do for that matter. I think our wedding was so spectacular because we made it ours. It sounds simple but it's easy to get lost in the process. When it comes to weddings, everyone has an opinion. And I mean everyone. Take it all in and say thank you. If it's a good idea - use it. If not, pass it on to that crazy bridezilla you know. Keep things in perspective because it is only one day after all (ok yes one colossally, important day) so if you're stressed out and can't even enjoy it, what's the point? Have fun planning - tear out magazine pictures of things that inspire you. Delegate duties to those you know can do the job and focus your energies on what matters most to you. I may not have had a wedding book, but I had a loving family and friends to support me along the way. What else is there?
