AN EVENTS AND WEDDING PLANNING COMPANY...We can’t wait to meet you! xoxo. Happily Hitched, LLC ~...

Request for Proposal by: Christina Grier, Certified Wedding Planner | Bride: Angela Costellos

AN EVENTS AND WEDDING PLANNING COMPANY

…creating your special day

Happily Hitched, LLC ~ Getting You Hitched -- without a Hitch!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE NUMBER

A Letter from the Owner ……………………………………………………………………………. 3

Who We Are ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4

How We Work ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 5

Mission Statement + Executive Summary ……………..…………………………………… 8

Why a Certified Planner? …………………………………………………………………………… 9

Wedding Planning Packages ……………………………………………………………………… 11

Additional Services + Offers ……………………………………………………………………….. 14

Wedding Budget Management …………………………………………………………………… 16

Happily Hitched Contract ………………………………………………………………………….. 17

Bridal Client Form …..………………………………………………………………………………….. 21

Bridal Questionnaire …..………………………….…………………………….……………………. 23

Marriage License + Ceremony Requirements …………………………………………….. 32

Preferred Vendors List ………………………………………………………………………………… 34

Relationship Education ……………………………………………………………………………….. 36

Theme Concepts …………………………………………………………………………………………. 39

Bridal Party Responsibilities ……………………………………………………………………….. 40

Emergency Kit …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 48

Essay …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50


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A LETTER FROM THE OWNER

Welcome!

Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time in your life and we’re so honored that you’re considering Happily Hitched to help you plan your Big Day. Over the next few months, you’ll have lots to do to get ready for your wedding. If this is your first marriage, it could be a very overwhelming and daunting task thinking about where to start. Do you pick out your colors first? When do you need to worry about hotel blocks for out-of-town guests? And what are your bridal party’s responsibilities anyway?! Fortunately for you and the many other couples that have trusted Happily Hitched to serve them, we know just what to do to turn your bridal dreams into reality. Officially founded in 2014, we have used nearly one decade worth of collective experience helping Brides and their families plan and coordinate their weddings. In the Fall of 2013, we realized this passion for executing events just the way they’ve been planned was no longer just a fun hobby, but was transitioning into an exciting new business! We’ve handled everything from directing rehearsals, to keeping the guests happy and even playing MC. We’ve got the experience you need to have a memorable day. Let us help you get hitched -- without a hitch. It would be our pleasure! We look forward to working with you to create the wedding of your dreams. Sincerely,

Christina Grier, Business Director

Happily Hitched, LLC (540) 251-4255 [email protected] www.happilyhitchedmarriages.com

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.happilyhitchedmarriages.com/


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WHO WE ARE

OUR STORY -- Co-founders Christina Grier and Aishah Hunter first connected through joining a community service based sorority in college. By working side-by-side to develop programs and coordinate volunteer activities, they realized the potential they had to serve women in an even greater way - by promoting the family values they both hold dear. After assisting a college friend with her wedding day, they saw the vision for what their talents could do to help brides throughout the world. So on January 15, 2014, Happily Hitched, LLC became a reality. OUR NAME -- The inspiration for the name Happily Hitched came from the idea that there might be more to happiness than just a temporary feeling or emotion. Maybe we could begin to look at happiness as a choice we commit to like the one we make when we vow to love our spouse unconditionally on our wedding day. Christina and Aishah wanted to encourage women to envision marriages where happiness as a couple wasn’t dependent upon temporary feelings, but rather a deeper, longer-lasting relationship where both partners vow to bind themselves together as one to share in the lifetime of responsibilities that come with serving and glorifying God. They believe that it’s that binding (which refers to Matthew 19:4-6), that ties man and woman to God, just like a hitch ties a horse to a wagon or plow. Together, a married couple labors as one to fulfill God's plan for their marriage, which extends beyond their home, into the community, and reaches across generations (see Malachi 2:15).


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HOW WE WORK

EXPANSION OF SERVICES -- In 2016, Happily Hitched expanded its service offerings to

include full service wedding planning. We work to get to know each and every couple,

understanding who they are and how we can help make their event special. The company first

got its start as a marriage blog, where

Christina and Aishah made it their

mission to inspire women – engaged,

single and newlywed – to prepare for

their futures as wives. It was their

belief that Every Bride deserves to

enjoy her journey into a lasting

marriage, that led them to create

weekly blogs catering to women at all

stages of life to build a vision and lay

the foundation for thriving marriages.

OUR ROLES -- Since adding wedding planning into the mix, Christina has become a certified

wedding and event planner through Lovegevity’s Wedding Planning Institute to better serve

Happily Hitched brides. Christina’s role as the Business Director is to work with couples and

their families from start to finish, helping them to create signature events unique to their style

and personality. This has also included being a quick-thinker, such as having extra candles for

the unity lighting when a bride’s family forgot them, or always keeping an umbrella on hand

even on the sunniest of days, because you never want to be caught in the middle of a fast-

moving thunder storm without an umbrella!

As the Creative Director, Aishah is in charge of creating the tools and resources that make the

wedding planning process that much easier for couples. She provides one-on-one bridal

coaching and also develops and implements the program for Happily Hitched’s marriage prep

workshop. Aishah provides advice and insight on the design aspects of the wedding day,

working to be the more creative thinker while Christina executes on the details so a couple’s

wedding day unfolds exactly as planned.


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LOCATION, LOCATION! -- Happily Hitched primarily serves the Maryland, Virginia and

Washington, D.C. region, but is willing to travel to locations on the East Coast. Christina is

based out of northern

Virginia and Aishah is

based out of New Jersey.

WHAT TO EXPECT -- The

Happily Hitched team is not your average wedding planning service. Whereas some brides might feel like hiring a wedding planner is purely a transaction where the relationship ends after services are rendered, Aishah and Christina hold a different view. This team builds relationships – they spend time with the stressful bride and uplift her during the difficult days. They are confidants. They laugh in the good moments and present a genuine desire to become an extension of every couple’s story. They believe strongly in marriage, and want to make sure each bride is not only prepared for her wedding day, but all the days after ‘I Do’ that are key in creating lasting marriages. Upon contacting Happily Hitched, you will first be given one (1) complimentary consultation that will be used as a time for us to get to know your wants and visions as a client. It will also serve as a time for you to get to know us and ask any questions you may have. Planning a wedding is like running a marathon, and we want to make sure you have the opportunity to interview us as the best company to help get you to the finish line. These consultations may happen by phone, in-person, or via video chat of some kind (i.e., Skype, FaceTime). Concluding the consultation, you will let our team know if you’d like to move forward with securing our planning services.


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Prior to your first meeting with Happily Hitched as an official client, you will be sent two documents to review, complete and send back ahead of the meeting date. The first document will be a Bridal Client Profile Form to outline the basic items you as a couple are looking for. It will also help us design and plan your signature wedding and keep us organized in the process (see page 21). The second form you will return to us prior to the meeting is the Bridal Profile Questionnaire. This will give our team a better understanding of things like the potential budget we could create for you, whether you’d prefer a more formal or informal wedding look, and your overall style and preferences regarding your wedding (see page 23). Once we’ve received both documents from you, we will set up a mutually convenient date, time and location to meet either in-person or via video call if you do not reside in the Washington, D.C. Metro area.

Happily Hitched will provide the client with a folder of information at the meeting that includes marketing material, business cards, a preferred vendor’s list and wedding package options. The Bridal Client Profile Form and Questionnaire will drive and shape the conversation for this first meeting. Christina will present to the client an inspiration presentation that will walk the client through what Happily Hitched has designed for the 8 essential steps to planning a successful wedding – Attire, Accessories, Anticipation, Arrival, Atmosphere, Appetite, Amusement, and Appreciation. When the client has determined she is ready to move forward with the vision for her wedding day, she will be given the contract to sign either during that first meeting or to take home and send back with a deposit for the desired services.

We can’t wait to meet you! xoxo


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MISSION STATEMENT

Every Bride deserves to enjoy her journey into a lasting marriage. At Happily Hitched, LLC, the goal is to take a bride and groom's vision for their big day and execute it just the way they've planned. Our goal is to get you hitched without a hitch, leaving you with the peace of mind to entrust all the details to us so you can enjoy your celebration with family and friends. At Happily Hitched, LLC we recognize the key elements that will not only add value to your day but to your lives as one. We help illuminate the things that are most important to you and assist in building the foundation for your journey ahead. We provide affordable, accessible and memorable service by ensuring all brides can have a wonderful wedding day regardless of her budget, a day that will bring uncontrollable smiles to the face of the Bride and her guests. We look beyond the wedding day with our brides to make sure they have taken steps to prepare for the bigger picture- their marriage. The Happily Hitched bride and groom desire to serve their home, their family and their community.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Our objective is to help brides navigate the planning process for a successful wedding. We want to create a business that provides flexibility for the woman on the go to enjoy the process of planning her special day as she prepares for marriage. We pride ourselves on offering affordable, accessible, memorable service. We’re focused on preparing brides not only for their BIG DAY, but all the days after. A wedding is just the exciting beginning to a lifelong marriage, and we want to make sure our brides are prepared for the journey after they say 'I Do.' We provide support and encourage friendship among the brides that we serve as they plan for one of the most important moments of their lives, and we’ll guide them through a simple process to help plan their big day at an affordable cost. We are here to serve the bride who cherishes the experience of planning for her big day without costing her a fortune. To accomplish these goals, we will remain solution-oriented, honest and straight to the point (no gimmicks). We’ll be reliable, fun and personal, be accessible to our clients, aim to become part of their story and advise them on spending money on the key pieces of their wedding most important to them. Wedding planners in the Washington, DC metro area plan weddings, but do not help brides prepare for after the wedding day. It is our view at Happily Hitched that the wedding day is not when a couple crosses the finish line, but rather is the shot gun to the rest of their lives. It's the kick off to their marriage. We will provide marriage advice along the way throughout the planning process and will make available a workshop service for an additional cost.

TARGET MARKET -- - Engaged women in the Washington, DC metro area ages 18-35

- Professional women on the go


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WHY A CERTIFIED PLANNER?

Article from The Wedding Planner Book | www.theweddingplannerbook.com

It’s a Business -- In my estimation, the most important reason to become a certified wedding planner is to learn the marketing, advertising, merchandising and bookkeeping of the wedding planning business. I come across so many aspiring wedding planners who are masterful at planning weddings but quite lost when it comes to running a business. The two seem to require different parts of your brain and a big part of being successful in this industry is learning how to master both of these skills. You can waste a lot of time and money if you learn how to market and advertise your business by trial and error. In most cases, brides will hire their wedding planner early in the planning process. Therefore, it will be several months or quite possibly a year before your first wedding will take place, even after you’ve gone through the process of booking your first client. This means it may be a year before you have a review and photos of a completed wedding to use to attract more clients, so quick and effective advertising and marketing is key. When it takes a minimum of 6 to 12 months to start correcting your mistakes, being well-prepared is invaluable. Reputation is Everything --The second reason to go after your wedding planner certification is your reputation. Learning from an accredited wedding planning certification course instead of learning on the job will hopefully result in great clients reviews starting with your first wedding. As you can imagine, great reviews are crucial in the wedding planning business and one bad review on Yelp or Wedding Wire can spell doom for any wedding planner starting out in a competitive market like New York or Los Angeles. On the flip side, one great review can be seen by many potential clients and result in quickly building your business faster than even you anticipated. Most online reviews platforms will not allow a bride to give a review until her wedding has taken place, so every one of your initial weddings needs to result in a great review on these sites. There Are No “Do-Overs” -- Most brides have been dreaming of their wedding since they were little girls and if they haven’t, you can be sure her mother has! A wedding is one of the most important days in a person’s life and typically the most expensive event they will ever plan. They are hiring you–the professional–to ensure it is exactly as they have envisioned and everything goes as planned. And in today’s society, even one mistake is one too many. The more you learn from the mistakes of others or mistakes you make in the classroom, the better off you, your business and your clients will be. The bride and groom hope to never have to plan another wedding, so they’re expecting nothing short of perfection.

http://www.theweddingplannerbook.com/wedding-planner-certification


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Unfair? Perhaps. But it’s the nature of the business and those who thrive in this industry are those that know how to keep their errors to a minimum. The Spice of Life is in the Details -- The fourth and final reason for getting wedding planning certification is the infinite details that go into planning “The Perfect Wedding.” Everyone has this vague perception that weddings are complicated, but you only really begin to appreciate the immensity of the task once you embark on the journey of actually planning one from concept to completion–especially a wedding involving two large families. It only takes one forgotten detail for a client’s entire wedding to go wrong and the only acceptable person to blame is the only person who is unaffiliated with anyone else–that’s right, you! Most venues require all set up to be done the day of the wedding. Therefore, if a detail is forgotten or (even worse) you were never aware it was your responsibility to begin with, many times it is too late to correct it. And rest assured, on the day of the wedding every detail is the wedding planner’s responsibility in the clients’ and guests’ opinion. An established and accredited wedding planning certification course will furnish you with forms and lists that will assist you with knowing and remembering all of these details.

QUOTE: "I knew working with Lovegevity's Wedding Planning Institute to earn my wedding planning certification was the best decision I could make for the future Brides and Grooms I would serve,” says wedding planner Christina Grier. “Planning a wedding is such an exciting and momentous occasion in life, but it can also be quite stressful and overwhelming if you don't know where to start or how to plan that perfect wedding. My role as a certified wedding planner is to eliminate that stress so the Bride and her family can sit back and enjoy one of the best days of their lives. With a strong belief in preparing Brides for lasting marriages, Brides won't just receive an amazing wedding day from us, but also invaluable tips on how to create a thriving marriage so they're prepared for their Big Day and all the days after. The wedding day is just the kick-off to a lifetime striving to stay Happily Hitched."


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WEDDING PLANNING PACKAGES

SPOTLIGHT PACKAGE | FULL PLANNING & DESIGN:

Full Planning, Event Design, and Day of Coordination of Wedding Budget Preparation and Management

Unlimited meeting, phone call, and emails

Gathering of all Vendor quotes and contract negotiations.

Preparation and management of all agendas, schedules, and floor plan

Final details and timing confirmed with all vendors the week of the wedding

Detailed agenda for your wedding day finalized and distributed to all vendors

Pick up all wedding items (guest book, Ketubah, marriage license, programs, menu cards, cake knife,

favors, escort cards, place cards, etc.) a week before the wedding

Walk-through at site(s) to finalize event flow and set-up

Rehearsal Coordination (if requested)

Unlimited hours of on-site coordination by a professional Happily Hitched Planner

Ensure all gifts, leftover food, cake top, extra programs, etc. are turned over to the designated person

at the end of the night

Investment starts at $3,500

** GLIMMER PACKAGE | MONTH OF COORDINATION (Most Popular): Up to three (3) face to face meetings

One (1) meeting to create the timeline and go over the set-up details

One (1) meeting for a walk-through at the site(s) to finalize with wedding couple and on-site banquet

manager to discuss the event flow and set-up.

One (1) meeting to gather the items to be taken to wedding ceremony and reception (guest book,

Ketubah, marriage license, programs, menu cards, cake knife, favors, escort cards, place cards, etc.

Unlimited email and phone calls upon contract signing

Referrals for event related vendors as requested by the wedding couple


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Preparation and management of all itineraries and schedules

Final details and timing confirmed with all vendors the week of the event

One designated Happily Hitched planner on the day of the event

Detailed schedule of your wedding day finalized and distributed to your event vendors

Management and assist with the set-up of event décor

Oversee reception to ensure everything stays on schedule

Ensure bridal party and family does not have to take down or do anything at the end of the reception

Ensure all gifts, leftover food, cake top, etc. are turned over to the designated person at the end of the

night


SPARKLE PACKAGE | PARTIAL PLANNING:

Help client finalize three (3) wedding vendors of their choosing (to include vendor negotiations and

contracting)

Up to ten (10) face to face or Skype meetings

One (1) meeting to create the timeline and go over the set-up details

One (1) meeting for a walk-through at the site(s) to finalize with wedding couple and on-site banquet

manager to discuss the event flow and set-up

One (1) meeting to gather the items to be taken to wedding ceremony and reception (guest book,

Ketubah, marriage license, programs, menu cards, cake, etc.

The balance of meetings is left for design and vendor meetings as requested by the wedding couple

Preparation and management of all itineraries and schedules

Final details and timing confirmed with all vendors the week of the wedding

Management of items to be taken to ceremony and reception picked up before the wedding (guest

book, Ketubah, marriage license, programs, menu cards, cake knife, favors, escort cards, place cards,

etc.)

Unlimited hours of on-site coordination by a professional Happily Hitched Planner

Detailed schedule of your wedding day finalized and distributed to your wedding vendors


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Rehearsal Coordination (if requested)

Management and assist with the set-up of wedding decor

Ensure all gifts, leftover food, cake top, extra programs, etc. are turned over to the designated person

at the end of the night


RSVP CONSULTATIONS | ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS: For Brides who want to do the planning, but need a little guidance

Will listen to your vision and recommend vendors to fit your needs

Will recommend site locations for ceremony/reception

Help develop master "To-Do" list

Offer budgeting advice

Minimum of two (2) hours required

Investment starts at $45/hour


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ADDITIONAL SERVICES + OFFERS GLOWING EXTRAS | À LA CARTE OPTIONS: As your wedding planner, Happily Hitched will help you with everything from Full Service Planning to making sure all of the details you've so carefully planned for your wedding day unfold as planned with our 'Month-Of' Coordination service. We are also happy to accommodate couples who are looking for additional services by adding these à la carte options to your wedding planning package. Let us know how we can be of service with these Happily Hitched Extras! SERVICES: INVESTMENT:

Proposal Planning and Coordination .................................................. Starting at $500

Engagement Party Planning and Coordination .................................. Starting at $425

Bridal Shower Planning and Coordination ......................................... Starting at $350

Wedding Invitation Assembly and Mailing ........................................ Starting at $225

Bridal Registry Tracking Service .......................................................... Starting at $100

Shop, Assemble and Deliver Guest Welcome Bags to Hotels …........ Starting at $150

Rehearsal Dinner Planning and Coordination ................................... Starting at $400

Personal Assistant for the Day - Deliver Breakfast/Lunch ................ Starting at $125 and Coordinate Wedding Party

Day-After Brunch Planning and Coordination .................................. Starting at $225

Gown Cleaning and Preservation Service ........................................... Starting at $200

One-on-One Consultation Sessions .................................................... Starting at $45/hour

Honeymoon Coordination ................................................................... Starting at $575

Marriage Prep Workshop ..................................................................... Starting at $475


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ENCORE! | CLIENT REFERRAL PROGRAM: Has a friend or family member seen us in action once, and wants to see us create magic again?! We offer a discount upon booking to all couples who are referred to us by past or current clients. Take 10% off any one of our Spotlight, Sparkle or Glimmer packages. Offer does not apply to à la carte services. Set up a complimentary consultation today!


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WEDDING BUDGET MANAGEMENT

BUDGET BREAKDOWN -- This is typically how couples breakdown their budget.

Subject % of Budget Attire 5% - 15%

Ceremony 4% - 8%

Decorations 2% - 3%

Flowers 10% - 12%

Gifts 2% - 5%

Honeymoon 5% - 15%

Marriage Prep 2% - 3%

Miscellaneous 8% - 15%

Music 4% - 9%

Parties 4% - 5%

Photographer 7% - 10%

Reception 40% - 60%

Rentals 3% - 5%

Stationery 4% - 5%

Transportation 2% - 5%

Videography 5% - 7%

Wedding Bands 2% - 5%

Wedding Planner 8% - 12%

TOP BUDGET SAVERS -- Incorporate some of these tips so you don’t break the bank. 1. Avoid a growing guest list – keep

the numbers small. 2. Ask friends and family for help

instead of gifts.

3. Have the ceremony at home or

outdoors.

4. Keep flowers to a minimum.

5. Skip groomsmen/bridesmaid

gifts.

6. Make your own invitations.

7. Stock the bar yourself.

8. Offer advertising for your vendors

for a reduced rate.

9. Buy your dress off the rack, and

on sale.

10. Plan a simple honeymoon.

Request for Proposal by: Christina Grier, Certified Wedding Planner | Bride: Angela Costellos

HAPPILY HITCHED CONTRACT

EXPANSION OF SERVICES -- In 2016, Happily Hitched expanded its service offerings to

include full service wedding planning.

[Today’s Date] [Bride’s Name] [Groom’s Name] [Address] [Phone Number] [Email Address]

Happily Hitched Wedding “Day Of” Services Contract

Dear [Bride and Groom], This letter follows our [meeting/phone call] on [Month, Day, Year], during which we discussed your wedding and our professional role in providing “Day-Of” coordinating services. It is our understanding that you will retain us as Professional Wedding Day Coordinators for your wedding scheduled on [Wedding Date]. Happily Hitched, LLC understands and appreciates the trust and confidence bestowed upon it by the client(s), ______________________. ___Happily Hitched, LLC__ accepts this responsibility and commits to holding the event date(s) reserved, neither considering nor accepting any other obligation that will interfere with our meeting our full commitment to you. This commitment is conditioned upon satisfactory receipt of fees set forth below. This agreement is entered into on this ____[Day]____ day of __[Month, Year]__, by and between _____Happily Hitched, LLC____, a Business, and ___[Bride and Groom]___, the Client(s). Description of Services: As a day-of coordinator, our role includes:


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Initial meeting with the couple to gather information

Unlimited email and phone calls upon contract signing

Confirmation with all vendors

Conduct rehearsal up to 2 hours

Orchestrate set-up of ceremony and reception locations

Help Bride into Gown

Assist Bride, Groom and Wedding Party

Act as liaison between the wedding party and the vendors (including Photographer)

Provide itineraries

Provide “Day Of” check lists and reminders

Ensure that the day flows smoothly

Bustle wedding gown at reception

Distribute tossing items and line-up guests

Handle any last minute emergencies

Distribute final payments

Ensure all gifts, leftover food, cake top, etc. are turned over to the designated person at the end of the night

“Day-Of” Fees & Payment Schedule: For our services, the Client will pay Happily Hitched, LLC a total of $1,250.00. A 50% deposit is required upon signing of the contract to reserve the wedding date, and final payment is due to the wedding coordinator one (1) week prior to the wedding date. Payment will be made as follows: A non-refundable deposit in the amount of $__625.00__ due upon signature of this contract.

$__625.00__ due on _________________ (Date) (seven days prior to your wedding date) Services other than “Day-Of” will follow the following payment schedule: •From 18 months - 12 months+ in advance, 25% of initial payment •From 12 months - 9 months in advance, 50% of initial payment •From 9 months - 6 months in advance, 75% of initial payment •From 6 months - 3 months in advance, $25% of initial payment •From 3 months - 30 days in advance, 100% of initial payment Happily Hitched, LLC requires the entire balance to be paid 30 days prior to the wedding date. If the balance is not paid within 15 days before the wedding, the wedding is subject to cancellation. Late Fees: Payments not received according to the payment schedule may be subject to late fee penalties. In accordance to Code of Virginia § 6.1-330.80, a late fee not exceeding five percent of an installment


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may be imposed. Therefore, clients may be asked to pay a five percent (5%) late fee per scheduled pay installment for failure to pay on time. Term / Termination: This agreement is effective and fully executed according to the date of the last Party to sign the contract. This agreement will terminate automatically upon completion of the services required by this contract. Changes / Cancellation Policy: Any changes made to this contract must be made in writing and signed by all parties. The Client agrees that there will not be another wedding planner/event coordinator working with the Client except for Happily Hitched, LLC. 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 the Client cancels less than seven (7) days before the wedding – except for the death of a member of the Client’s immediate family – there will be no refund. If the wedding is not canceled, there will be no refund. If the Client chooses to cancel the contract, immediate notification is required. You may cancel this agreement, in writing, for any reason at any time, and agree to pay all fees associated with it. In the event of cancellation, deposits are non-refundable. Remaining payment after the deposit must still be paid at a pro-rated amount based on time spent on work services by Happily Hitched, LLC on behalf of the Client. Liability: Contracts with all vendors will be between the Client and the Vendor. Happily Hitched, LLC and its representatives are not liable for the products or services and warranties of participating vendors. It is the Client’s responsibility to purchase their own wedding insurance, if they desire to do so. 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; Happily Hitched, LLC will require payment only for the time actually spent coordinating the Client’s wedding. Jurisdiction: This agreement is entered into on this ____________ day of _________________, _________, in the city of _______________________, the County of _______________________, Commonwealth/State of __________________________________.


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In the event of any dispute or legal action between the parties concerning the enforcement or interpretation of this General Contract, each party shall be responsible for their own attorney’s fees. If your understanding parallels ours, please sign one copy of this contract and return an electronic copy to Happily Hitched, LLC at [email protected] along with your deposit payment in the amount of $625.00 mailed to 11815 Federalist Way, Apt. 11, Fairfax, VA 22030. Happily Hitched, LLC wishes you true happiness as you prepare for your wedding day and all the days beyond as you enter into your new marriage. We look forward to working with you to make your wedding the most enjoyable and memorable day of your lives. Sincerely,

_________________________________ /__________________ Wedding Planner’s Signature Date Accepted:

Bride’s Signature: ______________________________________ Groom’s Signature: ______________________________________ Date: __________________________



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BRIDAL CLIENT FORM

I would like to employ the services of for:

Planning and designing my wedding.

Directing the “day of” my wedding at

Other

Please sign here for the day of service agreement:

Please fill out the following information completely:

Bride’s Name: Groom’s Name:

Wedding Date: City of Wedding:

Street Address/PO Box:

City: State: Zip:

Phone: Work Phone:

Email: Wedding Location:

Estimated Budget: Number of Guests:

Indoor: Outdoor:

Seated: Buffet:

Specific Requests:

Notes:

Please choose the category or categories you are interested in getting more information from to help plan

your wedding:

Bridal Shops Alterations Looking Good Wedding Cakes Reception Hall

Decorations Invitations Gifts Florists Rental


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Hotel Accommodations

Officiant Ceremony Sites Consultants Limousine

Photographer Videographer Jewelry Honeymoon Packages

Tuxedos

Events Specials Real Estate Insurance Loan Information

Relationship Education

Lovegevity Newsletter

Subscriptions Entertainment – Type:

Provide payment information below only for the reservation and payment of wedding “Day Of” services.

Authorized Signature: Date:

Visa MasterCard AMEX Discover

Card#: Exp. Date:


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BRIDAL QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Name of Bride-to-be (B2b): ________________________________________________________

a. Date of birth: ____________________________________________________________

2. Name of Groom-to-be (G2b): ______________________________________________________

a. Date of birth: ____________________________________________________________

3. Current Address: ________________________________________________________________

4. Future Address: _________________________________________________________________

5. Age:

a. 18 – 24

b. 25 – 30

c. 31 – 35

d. 36 – 45

e. Over 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: _______________________________________________________________

a. Used for price per person estimates, such as invitations, catering, and cake.

15. How many hotel rooms are needed? ________________________________________________


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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


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22. Your favorite primary color is:

a. Red

b. Yellow

c. Blue

23. Your favorite secondary color is:

a. Green

b. Purple

c. Orange

24. Your favorite intermediate color is:

a. Magenta d. Lime green

b. Teal e. Red-orange

c. Gold 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


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28. Wedding Gown Color:

a. Blue White

b. Natural White

c. Cream

d. Ivory

e. Other _________________________________________________________________

29. 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


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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

30. Headpiece Style:

a. None

b. Tiara

c. Headband

d. Wreath

31. Veil Style:

a. None

b. Blusher

c. Fingertip

d. Ballerina

e. Sweeping

f. Cathedral

32. Bridal Shoes:

a. Sneakers

b. Ballet Slippers

c. Strappy Sandals

d. Open Back Slings

e. Other

33. Accessories: (Choose all that apply)

a. Gloves

b. Garter

c. Handkerchief

d. Jewelry

e. Purse

f. Wrap

34. Stationery: (Match to answers regarding style)


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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…

35. Reception: (Match to answers regarding vendor preferences)

a. Indoor

b. Outdoor

c. Both

36. Catering: (Choose all that apply)

a. Seated/plated dinner

b. Buffet

c. Appetizers only

d. Champagne and Cake only

37. Cake:

a. Style:

i. Contemporary

ii. Fun

iii. Traditional

iv. Simple

v. Elegant

vi. Other ___________________________________________________________

b. Flavor:


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i. Vanilla

ii. Chocolate

iii. Other ___________________________________________________________

38. 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 Lilac

Lily Lily of the Valley Larkspur Orchid Peony

Ranunculus Roses Sweetpea Tulip Violets

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

39. Photography Style:

a. Traditional

b. Photojournalistic

c. Storybook

d. Combination _____________________________________________________________

40. Ceremony Location:

a. Indoor:

i. Religious facility

ii. Hall

iii. Special Venue _____________________________________________________


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b. Outdoor:

i. Garden

ii. Backyard

iii. Special Venue _____________________________________________________

41. Ceremony Music:

a. Processional:

i. Live singer/soloist

ii. String Quartet

iii. Classical CD (I.e. Canon in D)

iv. Other ____________________________________________________________

b. Here Comes the Bride

c. Recessional:

i. Live singer/soloist

ii. String Quartet

iii. Classical CD (I.e. Canon in D)

iv. Other __________________________________________________________

42. 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

43. Transportation:

Sedan/Town Car Limousine Van Mini Bus Motor Coach

Limousine Coach Excalibur Rolls Royce Stretch Hummer Stretch Navigator

Truck Limousine Mercedes Sedan Mercedes Stretch Trolley Horse & Carriage


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Beetle Limousine Other

44. Videography:

a. Budget: _________________________________________________________________

b. Style:

i. One Camera

ii. Two Cameras

iii. Cinema Style

45. Wedding Planner:

a. Planner

b. Coordinator

c. Director

d. All Services

46. 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 ________________________________________________________________


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MARRIAGE LICENSE + CEREMONY REQUIREMENTS

VIRGINIA -- (Fairfax County) Marriage License Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: Online, In-Person Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $30.00 Payment Method: Cash, Credit Card Waiting Period: None Validity Period: 60 Days Age Requirement: 18 years-old Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID Medical Requirement: None Civil Ceremony Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: Online, In-Person Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $30.00 Payment Method: Cash, Credit Card Waiting Period: None Validity Period: 60 Days Age Requirement: 18 years-old Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID Medical Requirement: None

MARYLAND -- (Frederick County) Marriage License Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: In-Person (resident), Mail (non-resident) Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $75.00 Payment Method: Cash, Credit Card Waiting Period: 6AM after 48 Hours Validity Period: 6 Months Age Requirement: 15-17 with guardian consent Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID Medical Requirement: None Civil Ceremony Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: In-Person, Mail Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $25.00 Payment Method: Cash, Credit Card Waiting Period: 6AM after 48 Hours Validity Period: 6 Months Age Requirement: 15-17 with guardian consent Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID Medical Requirement: None

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Marriage License Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: In-Person Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $35.00 + $10.00 (certificate of marriage) Payment Method: Cash/Credit Card/Money Order Waiting Period: None Validity Period: N/A Age Requirement: 16 with guardian consent

Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID, Government ID Medical Requirement: None Civil Ceremony Requirements How to Obtain Marriage License Application: In-Person Submitting Application: In-Person Fee: $10.00 (certificate of marriage)


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Payment Method: Cash/Credit Card/Money Order Waiting Period: 10 days Validity Period: N/A Age Requirement: 16 with guardian consent

Residency Requirement: None Proof of Identification: Driver’s License, Passport, U.S. Military ID Medical Requirement: None


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PREFERRED VENDORS LIST

VENUES: Stone Tower Winery | www.stonetowerwinery.com Bluemont Vineyard | www.bluemontvineyard.com Bull Run Golf Club | www.golfbullrun.com OUTFITTERS: Bobbie’s Bridal Boutique | http://www.bobbiesbridal.com/ White Swan Bridal | http://www.whiteswanbridal.com/ Betsy Robinson’s Bridal Collection | http://www.robinsonsbridal.com/ BEAUTY: Sheldeez Beauty Salon | www.sheldeez.com Bridal Artistry | http://www.bridalartistrydc.com/ Blend Make-up Artistry | http://blendeventdc.wix.com/blend-event INVITATIONS, CALLIGRAPHY & SIGNS: Paper Source | www.papersource.com/locations/va_merrifield.html The Dandelion Patch | www.thedandelionpatch.com LeahLetters | www.leahletters.com Meant to be Calligraphy | www.meanttobecalligraphy.com/#5 PARTY RENTALS & DESIGN: Sammy’s Rentals | www.sammysrental.com Peacocks & Paisleys Event Décor | www.peacockspaisleys.com DC Rentals | www.dcrental.com FLORISTS: Holly Chapple Floral | www.hollychappleflowers.com Bloom’s Reston Floral | www.bloomsreston.com Sweet Root Village | www.sweetrootvillage.com PHOTOGRAPHERS: Photography Du Jour | www.photographydujour.com Kayla Koslow Photography | www.kaylakoslowphotography.com Rebekah Murray Photography | www.rebekahjmurray.com

http://www.stonetowerwinery.com/

http://www.bluemontvineyard.com/

http://www.golfbullrun.com/

http://www.bobbiesbridal.com/

http://www.whiteswanbridal.com/

http://www.robinsonsbridal.com/

http://www.sheldeez.com/

http://www.bridalartistrydc.com/

http://blendeventdc.wix.com/blend-event

http://www.papersource.com/locations/va_merrifield.html

http://www.thedandelionpatch.com/

http://www.leahletters.com/

http://www.meanttobecalligraphy.com/#5

http://www.sammysrental.com/

http://www.peacockspaisleys.com/

http://www.dcrental.com/

http://www.hollychappleflowers.com/

http://www.bloomsreston.com/

http://www.sweetrootvillage.com/

http://www.photographydujour.com/

http://www.kaylakoslowphotography.com/

http://www.rebekahjmurray.com/


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MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT: Superlative Events | www.superlativeevents.com A2Z Music Factory | www.a2zmusicfactory.com Elan Artists | www.elanartists.com CATERING & CAKES: RSVP Catering | www.rsvpcatering.com Purple Onion Catering Company | www.purpleonioncatering.com Old Blue BBQ | www.oldbluebbq.com/#welcome TRANSPORTATION: Royal Express Limousine | www.royalexpresslimocab.com Reston Limousine | https://www.restonlimo.com/ Presidential Limousine | www.presidential-limo.com

http://www.superlativeevents.com/

http://www.a2zmusicfactory.com/

http://www.elanartists.com/

http://www.rsvpcatering.com/

http://www.purpleonioncatering.com/

http://www.oldbluebbq.com/#welcome

http://www.royalexpresslimocab.com/

https://www.restonlimo.com/

http://www.presidential-limo.com/


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RELATIONSHIP EDUCATION

RECOMMENDED NATIONAL PROGRAMS: Association for Couples in Marriage Enrichment (ACME) www.BetterMarriages.org An international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization that promotes better marriages by providing enrichment opportunities and resources that strengthen couple relationships and enhance personal growth, mutual fulfillment and family wellness. ACME trains and certifies lay leader couples for retreats, workshops, and marriage enrichment groups. Topics include premarital preparation, communication skills, conflict resolution, sexuality and others. Resources for individual couples, small groups, and workshops available. Marriage Enrichment, INC. www.MarriageEnrichment.org Non-profit, non-denominational, and nationwide, Christian Marriage Workshops are dedicated to building positive communication skills in marriage and family relationships through private and small group activities. Workshops are conducted in cooperation with local churches and other organizations. All leaders are trained to the certification requirements of Marriage Enrichment, Inc. All leaders serve voluntarily. Currently scheduled workshops can be found on their website. Marriage Builders, Inc. www.MarriageBuilders.com Marriage Builders is an organization devoted to helping couples learn how to fall in love and stay in love forever. At the Marriage Builders web site you will find hundreds of articles that clearly guide you through an understanding about how to build and maintain a mutually enjoyable marriage. Marriage Preparation Resources www.MarriagePreparation.com For Better and For Ever, a marriage preparation program for churches and/or couples. Revised 2000 edition workbook covers: Family of Origin, Finances, Spirituality, Cohabitation, Mixed Faiths, Blended Families, Prayer, etc. Dating couples use it to judge readiness for Christian marriage. Engaged use to prepare for sessions with Pastor and, ideally, with Sponsor/Mentor couples. Catholic Edition in English & Spanish, Christian Edition in English.

http://www.bettermarriages.org/

http://www.marriageenrichment.org/

http://www.marriagebuilders.com/

http://www.marriagepreparation.com/


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Marriage Spirit Coaching Workshop www.MarriageSpirit.com The Marriage Spirit Workshop teaches a seven step program of spiritual intimacy to defuse anger, reclaim trust, renew reverence and help partners feel fully known, deeply loved and profoundly valued. Power of Two Marriage Skills Workshops www.TherapyHelp.com Power of Two Workshops based on the book The Power of Two: Secrets to a Strong & Loving Marriage by psychologist Susan Heitler. Teach state-of-the-art couple skills such as: communication techniques, conflict resolution, shared decision-making, managing anger, cleaning up after upsets, understanding sensitivities, and augmenting intimacy, support and joy. Relationship Coaching Institute www.RelationshipCoachingInstitute.com Relationship Coaching training, certification, and practice development for helping professionals. Life Partner Quest Relationship Coaching programs for singles and couples seeking a successful Life Partnership by telephone, workshop, or in person. LOCAL MARRIAGE RELATIONSHIP EXPERTS: Kristen Birkland, LMFT 19441 Golf Vista Plaza, Suite 110 Leesburg, Virginia 20176 Phone: (703) 468-8015 The Wellness Connection, LLC 24600 Millstream Drive, Suite 340 Stone Ridge, Virginia 20105 Phone: (703) 327-0335 Windward Optimal Health, LLC 46950 Community Plaza, Suite 211 Sterling, Virginia 20164 Phone: (703) 665-0754

The Center for Marriage Counseling 9506 Old Lee Highway Fairfax, Virginia 22031 Phone: (703) 536-8896 Well Marriage Center 3917 Old Highway, Suite 11-D Fairfax, Virginia 22030 Phone: (703) 919-3905 Beth Spring Therapy 425A Carlisle Drive Herndon, Virginia 20170 Phone: (703) 975-2628

http://www.marriagespirit.com/

http://www.therapyhelp.com/

http://www.relationshipcoachinginstitute.com/


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POPULAR MARRIAGE BLOGS TO READ: Black and Married | https://blackandmarriedwithkids.com/ Married and Young | http://marriedandyoung.com/ One Extraordinary Marriage | https://oneextraordinarymarriage.com/ Happy Wives Club | http://www.happywivesclub.com/ Marriage More | http://houseofroseblog.com/marriagemore/ Marriage 365 | http://marriage365.org/ Husband Revolution | https://husbandrevolution.com Fierce Marriage | http://fiercemarriage.com/ Unveiled Wife | https://unveiledwife.com/blog/

https://blackandmarriedwithkids.com/

http://marriedandyoung.com/

https://oneextraordinarymarriage.com/

http://www.happywivesclub.com/

http://houseofroseblog.com/marriagemore/

http://marriage365.org/

https://husbandrevolution.com/

http://fiercemarriage.com/

https://unveiledwife.com/blog/


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THEME CONCEPTS

BRIDAL SHOWER IDEAS:

Cooking School Shower – Time to get in the kitchen. Taste-testing is a must.

Arts and Crafts – Get your hands dirty and DIY! Check off wedding to-dos too.

Beauty Makeover – Try out some wedding day styles! Pamper away.

Go Green – Eco-friendly and organic is the order of the day. Find a garden spot.

Honeymoon Shower – Help the bride pack early & get items for her honeymoon.

Outdoorsy Shower – Hit the trails or do an outside activity.

Couple’s Shower – Double the fun! Bride and Groom on deck.

Pool or Beach Party – Take it poolside. Swimsuit attire and sunglasses, of course.

Pot Luck – Sharing is caring. Guests will bring special dishes to enjoy.

Tea Party – Keep is classy with a mid-afternoon tea.

Destination location – Get out of town! Enjoy a new location for bridal fun. POST-WEDDING BRUNCH IDEAS:

Picnic Style – Baskets, red and white plaid tablecloths, backyard lawn seating.

Healthy Food – Recover from a long night of partying with granola and yogurt.

Southern Fixings – Or you can take it to the south with chicken and waffles!

Mimosa Mixer – What better than a mimosa bar with choice fruits and toast?

Coffee Production – Go all out with coffees favorites to get everyone up and going!


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BRIDAL PARTY RESPONSIBILITIES

MAID OF HONOR’S CHECKLIST

Helps the bride select bridesmaids’ attire

Helps address invitations and place cards

Plans and attends as many prenuptial events as possible and keeps track of pre-

wedding gifts

Organizes bridesmaids’ gift to the bride. Usually gives an individual gift to the

couple

Makes sure that all the bridesmaids and the flower girl 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 and helps reduce stress (keep tissues close by!)

Dances with Best Man during formal first-dance sequence

Makes sure Bride eats! Gets her a plate and drink

Collects gift envelopes brought to reception and keep in safe place

Helps the bride change into her going away clothes

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

Makes sure presents/gifts make it to final destination

Reminds Bride to send thank you cards

Pays for own wedding attire and transportation to the wedding


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BEST MAN’S CHECKLIST

Organizes a pre-wedding party for the groom

Helps arrange accommodations for groomsmen traveling from out-of-town

Coordinates the groomsmen & 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 and 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 their next destination

Reminds Groom to send thank you cards

Make sure rental tuxes get returned

BRIDESMAIDS’ CHECKLIST

Assist the Maid of Honor as requested

Attend as many prenuptial events as possible

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

Help maintain RSVP lists for bridal events


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Assist the bride with errands

Break in new shoes before wedding day

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

Get Bride snacks if needed

Walk in processional and recessional

Possibly participate in receiving line

Dance with groomsmen and ushers

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

Help Bride on visits to restroom if asked

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

HEAD USHER’S CHECKLIST

Expected to attend the rehearsal and is included at the rehearsal dinner

Receives any lists of guests who are to be seated in a specific pew and is aware of

the importance and sequence of seating special guests, such as the mothers and

grandmothers of the bride and groom

Makes sure that programs, if used, are handed to guests when they are seated

Makes sure that people who are designated to receive special flowers or corsages

do, if the flowers have not been delivered to the recipients beforehand

Checks that all ushers are dressed properly and wearing their boutonnieres on the

left side, stem down

Makes sure that the ushers know how to usher: how to greet guests, how to offer

an arm to a single woman guest, and how to precede a couple to their seats

Helps gather the wedding party for photographs either before or after the

ceremony and ensures that transportation arrangements have been made for all

members of the wedding party to and from the ceremony

Completes entire Groomsmen and Ushers Checklist, as needed


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GROOMSMEN & USHERS’ CHECKLIST

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

Get tux fitted well before wedding day

Expected to attend the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner

Review any special seating situations with the head usher before the ceremony

begins

Greets 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

Help Best Man and Bridesmaids decorate the Honeymoon getaway car

Coordinate return of rented apparel with head usher or best man

Pay for own wedding attire and transportation to the wedding


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MOTHER OF THE BRIDE’S CHECKLIST

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 and heirlooms

to be incorporated

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

Leaves ceremony before Mother of the Groom

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

FATHER OF THE BRIDE’S CHECKLIST

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)

Attends rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

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

and from the wedding

Typically travels to ceremony with the bride


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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

Offer help transporting gifts from venue and storing until Bride and Groom return from Honeymoon

MOTHER OF THE GROOM’S CHECKLIST

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 and help keep track of RSVPs from

Groom’s side

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


May be announced with husband at the reception

Sits in an honored place at the parent’s table


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Does mother-son dance with groom

Attends post wedding brunch (if held)

FATHER OF THE GROOM’S CHECKLIST

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); attends 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 sear right before the mother of the bride is seated

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


May be announced with wife

May make a welcoming speech

Sits at an honored place at the parent’s table

May toast the newlyweds

Offer help transporting gifts from venue and storing until Bride and Groom return

from Honeymoon

May settle final bills with wedding vendors

Attends or hosts post-wedding brunch

FLOWER GIRL’S CHECKLIST

Attend bridal shower with her family

Dress and accessories should be paid for by her family

Attends the rehearsal and 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 to those carried by the bridesmaids


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If very young, sit with parents after walking down aisle

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

Walk into reception with or after ring bearer

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

RING BEARER’S CHECKLIST

His attire should be paid for by his family

Attends the rehearsal and 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 velvet 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

If very young, sit with parents after walking down aisle

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

Walk into reception with or before flower girl

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


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EMERGENCY KIT

ESSENTIAL CHECKLIST – Never be caught without these essentials!

Health Antacid Antihistamine, cold remedy Any prescription medications Aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil Band Aids Hard candy or flavored cough drops Pepto-Bismol or other antacid/upset stomach aid Smelling salts Tampons, pads Sunscreen (if outdoors) Beauty/Grooming Dusting powder for before pictures are taken Hair spray, brush, barrettes and/or bobby pins Hand lotion, hand-wipes Kleenex Makeup/remover Perfume Nail polish/remover, cotton balls, nail file Small hand towel Toothbrush and toothpaste Lotion

Deodorant Baby powder Attire ‘Throwaway’ bouquet and garter Backup dress (in case of spills on first) Clear nail polish for runs in hosiery Earring backs Emergency buttons Flat shoes or ballet slippers Iron Pantyhose (extras for emergencies) Safety pins Masking tape (last minute ripped hems) Small sewing kit, including thread matching entire party’s attire Miscellaneous Directions to reception with copies Phone numbers of all service personnel Small flashlight Cell phone Something to drink (bottled water, juice, etc.) Straws (to avoid lipstick smudge) Cake knife Candles for unity lighting


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COME VISIT US!

GRAND OPENING! -- We will be holding our grand opening in October. Make sure to RSVP! Location: Greater Reston Arts Center in Reston Town Center 12001 Market Street, Suite 103 Reston, Virginia 20190 Date: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 Time: 6:30pm – 9:30pm *WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU -- Get in touch with us! Website: www.happilyhitchedmarriages.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (540) 251-4255 Follow Us: /happilyhitchedmarriages

/happily_hitched

@_happilyhitched

@_happilyhitched

http://www.happilyhitchedmarriages.com/



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ESSAY

Happily Hitched is a wedding and event planning company serving couples in the Maryland,

Virginia and Washington, D.C. area. We offer full-service planning support, from month-of-

coordination, to full and partial planning. We also provide consultation services on an hourly

basis. What makes us stand out compared to other area wedding planners is we got our start first

as a marriage blog. We are very focused on preparing our brides not only for their wedding day,

but for their new lives together as husband and wife. We hope that our relationship with our

clients doesn’t end once the wedding is over, but aim to become part of their story in ensuring

marital success.

We have plans to market our services by appearing at area bridal shows by renting a booth or

sharing with another vendor. We’ll host workshops in community centers, offering a few hours of

free advice each quarter to newly engaged brides. We’ll leave our business cards in local spots

brides are likely to visit, such as bridal salons, jewelry stores, and floral shops. An active social

media presence is a must, and we’ll also mail out postcards to brides on our marketing list that

we’ll build. We’ll also be reaching out to our local churches to see if there are brides who are in

need of wedding planners. Over the next year, Christina will be the active wedding planner for

Happily Hitched working to secure and plan weddings for the company’s clients.

Aishah may contribute creatively by assisting with wedding design in 2016-2017. Five years from

now we will have secured payroll and accounting support, and will have moved from a business

that started just as supplemental income in addition to other full time jobs, to the business

shifting as our main focus and career. We should also have a full-time designer on board and

another part-time planner. Ten years from now we’ll have hired a full staff so Aishah and

Christina can focus on running the business, while also planning some weddings. We’ll be looking

for ways to focus and expand on our brand message of “getting you hitched, without a hitch,” and

how we can expand our service offerings to include more assistance in the lead up to the wedding

via bridal coaching, and more follow-up services such as first year marriage workshops after the

wedding is over.

AN EVENTS AND WEDDING PLANNING COMPANY...We can’t wait to meet you! xoxo. Happily Hitched, LLC ~...

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Transcript of AN EVENTS AND WEDDING PLANNING COMPANY...We can’t wait to meet you! xoxo. Happily Hitched, LLC ~...