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Officiant and Marriage Prep: Rev. Frank Nelson (A+)
Lowlights: While we enjoyed our marriage prep sessions with Rev. Frank, they didn't go quite as deep as we had hoped, especially for the price. However, his workbooks are pretty great, and he is nothing short of wonderful to spend time with.
Highlights: Rev. Frank is such a sweet, fun, professional man. We loved working with him. He is prompt, extremely open (we are completely non-religious and he was completely fine with it), and creates such a memorable, warm and fun ceremony without being pompous -- just great. He really got to know US, and did all the hard work of scripting the ceremony (we made whatever changes we wanted). He also wrote vows for us based on words we had exchanged during our sessions with him, which made them really special without making them nervewracking. Nothing but great things to say about the Rev. If you meet him, you will love him. :)
Highlights: Rev. Frank is such a sweet, fun, professional man. We loved working with him. He is prompt, extremely open (we are completely non-religious and he was completely fine with it), and creates such a memorable, warm and fun ceremony without being pompous -- just great. He really got to know US, and did all the hard work of scripting the ceremony (we made whatever changes we wanted). He also wrote vows for us based on words we had exchanged during our sessions with him, which made them really special without making them nervewracking. Nothing but great things to say about the Rev. If you meet him, you will love him. :)
Photography: Render Photography (A)
Britt is fabulous. She was just starting out on her own when we booked, so we snagged her just before her rates bumped up significantly. Phew! So glad we went with her! Keep in mind that Britt is a very photojournalistic-style photographer (which is exactly why we picked her). So if your style is strictly smile and say cheese, go elsewhere.
Lowlights:
During family photos, the wind was blowing like crazy. We happened to be in an extra windy spot, and my mom and Andy's mom weren't thrilled about their hair blowing into their faces the whole time. A couple of times she did mention this to Britt, who was feeling pretty pressured to finish because our time was running short, but instead of move us she (and we) just sort of pushed through. The family formals came back and sure enough, my mom and Andy's mom's hair (and some other peoples') are all up in their faces, to the point where it's noticeably not-so-good-looking. Andy's mom is visibly uncomfortable in a lot of the formal photos because she was so distracted by the wind blowing her hair straight up. I think it's just a lesson learned, but I wish I had been more firm in saying "we need to do this somewhere else" so that it came across more clearly. I also think this was partially my fault because I was in a mood to just be done already.
Highlights:
Lowlights:
During family photos, the wind was blowing like crazy. We happened to be in an extra windy spot, and my mom and Andy's mom weren't thrilled about their hair blowing into their faces the whole time. A couple of times she did mention this to Britt, who was feeling pretty pressured to finish because our time was running short, but instead of move us she (and we) just sort of pushed through. The family formals came back and sure enough, my mom and Andy's mom's hair (and some other peoples') are all up in their faces, to the point where it's noticeably not-so-good-looking. Andy's mom is visibly uncomfortable in a lot of the formal photos because she was so distracted by the wind blowing her hair straight up. I think it's just a lesson learned, but I wish I had been more firm in saying "we need to do this somewhere else" so that it came across more clearly. I also think this was partially my fault because I was in a mood to just be done already.
Highlights:
- Britt was impressive through and through. When I forgot to confirm our engagement session and realized it the day before, she still made it happen for us because we live out-of-state and were only in town for the weekend.
- On the day of our wedding, Britt and her assistant showed up 30 minutes early and got right going and were just downright enjoyable to be around.
- Our photo time with the wedding party and family was cut in half because we were a bit behind. Britt still did a great job of doing a variety of shots and got everyone arranged so proficiently.
- Everyone loved Britt and her assistant, Kristine (sp?). They made everyone feel happy and relaxed.
- The photos are AWESOME! Couldn't be happier - we didn't give her much guidance and she just kept us busy the whole time.
Day-of Coordination: Deven Nelson (A)
Lowlights: I think we could have benefitted from having Deven PLUS an assistant. There were just too many details (Deven mentioned it was more than she had ever seen at a wedding). The few snags that did occur would have been aided by having an additional head to help out.
I found myself running around to deal with the band when they were playing incorrect playlists, turning music down to background level on their breaks, we couldn't find her for the cake cutting, or to make sure it was correctly announced, there was so much to get ready inside that my sister and personal attendant ended up pinning corsages (after the photos were taken), and several of our helpers just never got theirs at all. If anyone could have handled it all, it would be Deven ... but it was just too much for one person to handle and despite my mom and I suggesting it, she decided to go it alone, and there were a few things that suffered as a result.
Highlights: The sheer amount of amazingness Deven did do cannot go unnoticed. She is very, very thorough, extremely thoughtful, patient, and knows what she's doing. She went above and beyond being a day-of coordinator. She even came by the week before the wedding and PACKED her car full of stuff to take it off our hands and put it out of sight, out of mind. I am just so impressed with her, truly. I would hire her again in a second!
I found myself running around to deal with the band when they were playing incorrect playlists, turning music down to background level on their breaks, we couldn't find her for the cake cutting, or to make sure it was correctly announced, there was so much to get ready inside that my sister and personal attendant ended up pinning corsages (after the photos were taken), and several of our helpers just never got theirs at all. If anyone could have handled it all, it would be Deven ... but it was just too much for one person to handle and despite my mom and I suggesting it, she decided to go it alone, and there were a few things that suffered as a result.
Highlights: The sheer amount of amazingness Deven did do cannot go unnoticed. She is very, very thorough, extremely thoughtful, patient, and knows what she's doing. She went above and beyond being a day-of coordinator. She even came by the week before the wedding and PACKED her car full of stuff to take it off our hands and put it out of sight, out of mind. I am just so impressed with her, truly. I would hire her again in a second!
Videography: Brady Salay, Highlights Videography (pending A-)
Note: We have not yet received our videos from Highlights, so this grade is based on our work with Brady thus far.
Lowlights:
Highlights (no pun intended. Ha!):
Lowlights:
- Brady isn't the easiest vendor to communicate with. We had a few emails that required follow-ups, but in the end he always did get back to us and answer any questions or concerns we had thoroughly (just not in the most timely manner). :)
- He missed our final pre-wedding meeting. It was a phone meeting, but it still took some planning on our end, as I was traveling for work and two time zones away from Andy (we're not in Minnesota so we couldn't just meet at a coffee shop). He later apologized and said he had had a death in the family and was trying to catch up, so I understand. But a quick email or phone call or text would have been sufficient to explain the situation.
Highlights (no pun intended. Ha!):
- When we spoke and emailed with Brady, he made us feel very confident in his process and that he would actually be there. :)
- He's a really nice, easy going guy.
- We didn't meet Brady until the day-of when he showed up right on time (maybe even early) and jumped right into filming.
- He was extremely subtle with his work. I hardly noticed him the entire day! Seriously, so discreet - not at all one of those camera guys who's running down the aisle and crouching in front of peoples' view to get the shot.
- Before he left, he found me at the reception to let me know and make sure there wasn't anything else we wanted him to capture, which I really appreciated.
- Incredible pricing. He should raise his rates for the work he does, no question.
Reception Band: JUG! (B-)
I have to say that overall, I think Jug is a great, awesome live band. They played really, really well and the guests loved them. There were a few things that tainted it for me, though.
Lowlights:
Highlights:
Lowlights:
- Communication was poor. Emails required followups and initially we were only able to communicate with their representative, Kris, who is really great and extremely willing to help, but sometimes not always on the ball. When I actually did get to speak to Corey, the band leader, he was really wonderful. However, day-of it became apparent (and he actually said this) that he did not know all the details of what he was supposed to do.
- He didn't announce the WP and us. Some girl at the venue did it instead and no one could hear her. It was extremely lackluster.
- iPod playlists for during band breaks: At first they didn't even play the playlists I had created and just used their own random music. I had to explain it to them even though it had been communicated very clearly in emails and verified. Then they would turn it down so low that it was just background music and people would start clearing the dance floor. Had to clarify that one on the spot, too.
- They played one of the songs that was on our "definitely DO NOT PLAY" list. It wasn't a big deal, but it was a bit annoying.
- By far the biggest aggravation was that their 5-man band wasn't whole. Their pianist and fiddler were not there. I can live without the pianist because the guitars more than made up for it. But the reason, and I mean the MAIN reason we went with them is that they have a great fiddler. About a week before the wedding I spoke with Corey and he did tell me there was a possibility his pianist wouldn't be able to make it (his wife was due that day). I told him that wasn't a big problem, but that what was really important to me was having a fiddler and that I was very excited for that part. He told me that they probably wouldn't have their regular guy, but "don't worry, we have plenty of options for substitutes" and that it would "definitely" work out. Honestly, I didn't notice until halfway through the dance, but when I did it made me mad. Didn't say anything, though.
- In an effort to keep the crazy energy going on the dance floor (because there was a ton) they only played one (maybe two, maybe) slow songs.
- They asked us months in advance if we had any songs not on their song list that we would like them to learn. I gave them a few requests but pointed out one in particular as a really special one for my dad that I wanted them to play. They said they couldn't do two of them but the other two would be no problem at all (the one for my dad being a "no problem"). I confirmed this twice, the latest being just prior to the wedding when I spoke with Corey on the phone. He said absolutely, it wasn't a problem. None of those songs were played. F-R-U-S-T-R-A-T-I-N-G!
Highlights:
- They did a great job with announcements once the dance started.
- The crowd loved them, and they really did play to the crowd extremely well. They played a lot of songs people didn't expect to hear at a wedding, but were super excited about as soon as the beat hit their ears.
- Their set-up was awesome. The lighting was colorful and fun and they did a great job getting it all ready.
- Corey was really wonderful in working with us to help out with our ceremony, even though he only played for the dance. We rented their keyboard, mics and speakers for the ceremony, and Corey himself set the whole thing up in advance, which was hugely helpful to us.
- When we asked them to turn down the music because of the acoustics in the room, they happily obliged. That didn't stop the next song from being too loud again, but each time we asked they were receptive to the request.
- Each and every member (all three of them!) are very talented musicians. They have a long, great song list to choose from and have a blast playing for and with the crowd. They also were happy to let my buddy (our ceremony musician and rising Nashville star) jam with them -- I think they might have actually asked him up there.
Ceremony Music: Daniel Ellsworth (A+)
I don't have a single complaint about this guy. He's one of my best friends, though ... so can you blame me? Seriously, though -- just so talented and genuine. Probably wouldn't be an option for anyone in the Twin Cities, unfortunately, because while he does hail from MN, he lives in Nashville. I let a lot of friends down when I told them he was already married. :)
Food: The Deco Catering (A+)
Lowlights: None
Highlights: The Deco was amazing. Just so, so delicious, wonderful to work with, and they put on a gorgeous display! We got a lot of comments that it was the best wedding food people had ever tasted, and just as many that it was the best presentation. Their prices are extremely reasonable. Couldn't have been happier with them - and will definitely use them again if a catering need arises. Here is our menu:
Meal style: Buffet
Price per person: ~$18 (does not include beverages beyond coffee)
Includes: glassware, silverware, dishes
Cocktail Hour: Tiered Fresh Fruit Arrangement with Deco Iron Stand with Baked Brie, Roquefort and Dill Havarti
Dinner: Variety of European Breads with Eggplant Spread, Herb Cheese Spread, Herbal Whipped Butter
Minnesota Wild Rice Salad
Wheatberry Salad
Herbal Green Salad with Raspberries, Strawberries, Roquefort and Caramelized Walnuts served with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Mango Papaya Salsa
Swedish Meatballs
Italian Vegetable Torte (Veg. Option) with Artichoke Hearts, Spinach, Roasted Red Peppers and Cheese Baked in a Flakey Pastry Crust
Roasted Fall Vegetables: Carrots, Squash, Portobello Mushrooms and Green Beans
New Potatoes with Fresh Dill
Late Night Snack: grilled cheese sandwiches, veggies for dippin' and pickle spears
Highlights: The Deco was amazing. Just so, so delicious, wonderful to work with, and they put on a gorgeous display! We got a lot of comments that it was the best wedding food people had ever tasted, and just as many that it was the best presentation. Their prices are extremely reasonable. Couldn't have been happier with them - and will definitely use them again if a catering need arises. Here is our menu:
Meal style: Buffet
Price per person: ~$18 (does not include beverages beyond coffee)
Includes: glassware, silverware, dishes
Cocktail Hour: Tiered Fresh Fruit Arrangement with Deco Iron Stand with Baked Brie, Roquefort and Dill Havarti
Dinner: Variety of European Breads with Eggplant Spread, Herb Cheese Spread, Herbal Whipped Butter
Minnesota Wild Rice Salad
Wheatberry Salad
Herbal Green Salad with Raspberries, Strawberries, Roquefort and Caramelized Walnuts served with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Mango Papaya Salsa
Swedish Meatballs
Italian Vegetable Torte (Veg. Option) with Artichoke Hearts, Spinach, Roasted Red Peppers and Cheese Baked in a Flakey Pastry Crust
Roasted Fall Vegetables: Carrots, Squash, Portobello Mushrooms and Green Beans
New Potatoes with Fresh Dill
Late Night Snack: grilled cheese sandwiches, veggies for dippin' and pickle spears
Cake: Keys Cafe & Bakery (White Bear Lake) (A+)
Lowlights: None
Highlights: We got a 3-tiered cake that we used for cutting and to save the top, and sheet cakes to pass. Keys was wonderful to work with from the very start. Our guests raved about it. We ate cake for breakfast and dinner for a few days not because there was much left-over (there wasn't), but because it is just. so. GOOD. They delivered and set up the cake for us and got everything perfect with the order. And the price? You just can't beat it.
We had two cake flavors:
- Pumpkin cake with browned butter frosting and chocolate ganache
- Chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream frosting and ganache, with a raspberry and whipped cream filling
Flowers & Foliage: Intuitive Blooms (A+)
Lowlights:
-If I have a single complaint it is that she didn't label the boutonnieres and corsages with who should get them, which we asked if she would do and she said she always did.
Highlights: We met with Lacey and loved her quirky, unique (and elegant!) sense of style. She was wonderful in helping us stay within our fairly limited budget, too! Plus, she has horses. And a flower dog. Awesome. On a more serious note, Lacey is very, very talented. I would recommend her to anyone. She is so creative and unique in her work and really "gets" your vision even when you do a poor job of describing it (me!).
-If I have a single complaint it is that she didn't label the boutonnieres and corsages with who should get them, which we asked if she would do and she said she always did.
Highlights: We met with Lacey and loved her quirky, unique (and elegant!) sense of style. She was wonderful in helping us stay within our fairly limited budget, too! Plus, she has horses. And a flower dog. Awesome. On a more serious note, Lacey is very, very talented. I would recommend her to anyone. She is so creative and unique in her work and really "gets" your vision even when you do a poor job of describing it (me!).
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Little Log House Pioneer Village (A+)
Lowlights:
-You can't bring in your own alcohol
-Their wine is yuck. Yuck yuck yuck. They were, however, able to order other varieties of wine for us, by the case. Problem was, WE had to buy it all regardless of whether it was consumed that night, and we weren't allowed to bring home any left-over. They were able to return full cases, but I'm certain we lost a bit of booze money on that one. Worth it, though. Not an Inglenook Wine fan.
Highlights: I don't even know where to begin. So much good to say about this place!
-Angie had emails coming at her like rapidfire from my mom and me in the months coming up to the wedding. She was incredibly thorough, flexible, patient, and helpful. Really good at her job, she is.
-The property itself is glorious. Quirky and definitely an odd layout, but so much to explore and enjoy, and ultimately serene and beautiful. Can you say photo op?!?!
-The Village Hall is a AWESOME. Lots of space but a warm, intimate feel, despite the huge vaulted woodbeam ceilings and iron chandeliers. We had over 200 people in there and it didn't feel crowded at all.
-You can use any licensed caterer here.
-Drinks are cheap! Really reasonable. We did wine, beer and Rum shots (for the cider) on us and cash bar for other alcoholic drinks.
-The staff is fantastic.
-Cost is extremely reasonable
-You can't bring in your own alcohol
-Their wine is yuck. Yuck yuck yuck. They were, however, able to order other varieties of wine for us, by the case. Problem was, WE had to buy it all regardless of whether it was consumed that night, and we weren't allowed to bring home any left-over. They were able to return full cases, but I'm certain we lost a bit of booze money on that one. Worth it, though. Not an Inglenook Wine fan.
Highlights: I don't even know where to begin. So much good to say about this place!
-Angie had emails coming at her like rapidfire from my mom and me in the months coming up to the wedding. She was incredibly thorough, flexible, patient, and helpful. Really good at her job, she is.
-The property itself is glorious. Quirky and definitely an odd layout, but so much to explore and enjoy, and ultimately serene and beautiful. Can you say photo op?!?!
-The Village Hall is a AWESOME. Lots of space but a warm, intimate feel, despite the huge vaulted woodbeam ceilings and iron chandeliers. We had over 200 people in there and it didn't feel crowded at all.
-You can use any licensed caterer here.
-Drinks are cheap! Really reasonable. We did wine, beer and Rum shots (for the cider) on us and cash bar for other alcoholic drinks.
-The staff is fantastic.
-Cost is extremely reasonable
Hotel Room Block: Marriott (Airport) (C)
Lowlights:
-They screwed up our block. We had looots of guests telling us they were told there were no rooms left when there were plenty, so it was this back and forth with the hotel and Marriott's central reservations line.
-We were charged for rooms they said they were comping (in response to all the hassle we had to deal with)
-Some guests were not given their Welcome bag gifts upon check-in (nor through their stay)
-Conference room was a MESS when we arrived the morning of the wedding. The tables and chairs were not arranged at all correctly, the linens were wrinkly and looked like they had been used without being washed, the kitchenette was blocked off by tables and chairs ... it wasn't something you want to have to deal with when you're supposed to be doing a billion other things that day.
-Various other frustrations that I don't feel like going into detail on.
Highlights:
-We were able to pay for wi-fi in a lump sum for all our guests
-Newly remodeled interior and beautiful rooms. Really nice amenities, too.
-Staff was very friendly
-Because of my hotel points from doing a LOT of business travel, we got a king suite, conference room (for brunch on Sunday morning and getting ready day-of), for free.
-We had a lot of OOT guests coming in, and since there's nothin' much going on in Hastings (where the wedding and reception are), we wanted to offer something with easy access to the airport, MOA and downtown. This was a great location for that.
The take-away: Our guests, as far as I know, have no complaints, aside from some of them being told they couldn't get the block rate. The hotel is really nice and beautiful, but the number of mix-ups WE had to deal with (we=my mom in this case) left a really bad taste in my mouth. It still isn't resolved completely, and I'm pretty sure the woman we worked with hopes to never hear from us again. Unfortunately, she will, because there are still unresolved issues and charges. Yikes!
-They screwed up our block. We had looots of guests telling us they were told there were no rooms left when there were plenty, so it was this back and forth with the hotel and Marriott's central reservations line.
-We were charged for rooms they said they were comping (in response to all the hassle we had to deal with)
-Some guests were not given their Welcome bag gifts upon check-in (nor through their stay)
-Conference room was a MESS when we arrived the morning of the wedding. The tables and chairs were not arranged at all correctly, the linens were wrinkly and looked like they had been used without being washed, the kitchenette was blocked off by tables and chairs ... it wasn't something you want to have to deal with when you're supposed to be doing a billion other things that day.
-Various other frustrations that I don't feel like going into detail on.
Highlights:
-We were able to pay for wi-fi in a lump sum for all our guests
-Newly remodeled interior and beautiful rooms. Really nice amenities, too.
-Staff was very friendly
-Because of my hotel points from doing a LOT of business travel, we got a king suite, conference room (for brunch on Sunday morning and getting ready day-of), for free.
-We had a lot of OOT guests coming in, and since there's nothin' much going on in Hastings (where the wedding and reception are), we wanted to offer something with easy access to the airport, MOA and downtown. This was a great location for that.
The take-away: Our guests, as far as I know, have no complaints, aside from some of them being told they couldn't get the block rate. The hotel is really nice and beautiful, but the number of mix-ups WE had to deal with (we=my mom in this case) left a really bad taste in my mouth. It still isn't resolved completely, and I'm pretty sure the woman we worked with hopes to never hear from us again. Unfortunately, she will, because there are still unresolved issues and charges. Yikes!
Wedding Gown & Alterations
Purchase Store: Brides of France, Minneapolis (A)
This is a cute, quirky shop with sassy, quirky sisters working at the two locations (Edina and Minneapolis). I first went into the Edina shop and was worried because of how small it was. They carry consignment dresses, which I wasn't especially looking for. They also, however, carry La Sposa. After working with me, the Edina store owner (?) *made* me go to the other location to try on the dress I ended up buying so I could try on a sample that fit. I was hesitant and had no expectations of even liking it much. Once I went to the other store and tried it on, a huge wave of relief and excitement hit me and I knew I'd found "the one".
Their prices are a bit high, but it is really, really fun to play dress up with all the vintage jewelry, head pieces, boleros and more (and they encourage it!).
Alterations: Amy Jane Stariha, St. Paul (A+)
Amy works out of her home now, but used to own a wonderful bridal shop, so she knows dresses very, very well. She is awesome. I had had my dress altered in Chicago, where I live, but lost extra weight and needed to have it taken in more the WEEK of the wedding. We called Amy on a Monday, she got me in on Tuesday and had the dress ready by Thursday morning, and it was an amazing fit! In addition to just taking it in, I asked if she could change the line of the back, which she also did. Amy is awesome.
This is a cute, quirky shop with sassy, quirky sisters working at the two locations (Edina and Minneapolis). I first went into the Edina shop and was worried because of how small it was. They carry consignment dresses, which I wasn't especially looking for. They also, however, carry La Sposa. After working with me, the Edina store owner (?) *made* me go to the other location to try on the dress I ended up buying so I could try on a sample that fit. I was hesitant and had no expectations of even liking it much. Once I went to the other store and tried it on, a huge wave of relief and excitement hit me and I knew I'd found "the one".
Their prices are a bit high, but it is really, really fun to play dress up with all the vintage jewelry, head pieces, boleros and more (and they encourage it!).
Alterations: Amy Jane Stariha, St. Paul (A+)
Amy works out of her home now, but used to own a wonderful bridal shop, so she knows dresses very, very well. She is awesome. I had had my dress altered in Chicago, where I live, but lost extra weight and needed to have it taken in more the WEEK of the wedding. We called Amy on a Monday, she got me in on Tuesday and had the dress ready by Thursday morning, and it was an amazing fit! In addition to just taking it in, I asked if she could change the line of the back, which she also did. Amy is awesome.
Bridesmaid Dresses: Sophia Tolli from The Wedding Shoppe (A)
Lowlights: The only annoying thing here is how busy it always is, and how stringent they are with needing an appointment for everything (even picking up your dress).
Highlights: I had a great experience with The Wedding Shoppe. They were always great about telling me the status of the order (how many dresses were in, when to expect the rest, communicating with the bridesmaids and making sure they knew what to order.
I also tried on wedding gowns here and had a wonderful attendant.
Highlights: I had a great experience with The Wedding Shoppe. They were always great about telling me the status of the order (how many dresses were in, when to expect the rest, communicating with the bridesmaids and making sure they knew what to order.
I also tried on wedding gowns here and had a wonderful attendant.
Penguin Suits: Savvi Formalwear (Woodbury) (A+)
We went to the Twin Cities Wedding Fair in January where Andy jumped in that money booth to win us some discount. We got about $40 off of each rental which made them really reasonable. Savvi was excellent to work with. No complaints!
Hair and Make up: Smart & Chic (A+)
Lowlights: None
Highlights: Affordable, professional, and they come to YOU! These girls were always fun. I had Cathi for both my trials and the real deal, and she was patient and phenomenal the whole way through. Priscilla did most of the bridesmaids and was also fantastic!!!
Highlights: Affordable, professional, and they come to YOU! These girls were always fun. I had Cathi for both my trials and the real deal, and she was patient and phenomenal the whole way through. Priscilla did most of the bridesmaids and was also fantastic!!!
Rehearsal Dinner: The Historic Afton House Inn - The Wheel Room (A)
The food? Delicious. The setting? Beautiful. As far as I can remember, they were great the night-of as well. Dan was great to work with and they were flexible with us for the menu. Prices are fair for the ambiance, too!
Chairs and (almost) Tent Rental:
<Coming soon>