“ Making the decision to have your pup professionally cared for by experts while you enjoy your wedding is one you won ’ t regret . You ’ ll want your family and friends to be able to relax and enjoy this special time without the responsibility of caring for your pup ( walks , feedings , clean-ups , wedding prep , lots of attention ). Do your research . Make sure the organization you choose is highly reputable , highly reviewed , and if possible , try to schedule an appointment for your pup to visit before the big day so they can feel comfortable and safe when they return for the wedding .”
— Laurie Ruttenberg , president of Lucky Dog Resort , luckydogresortri . com
MATCHING MOMENTS
“ Something that couples often forget is a leash and collar / harness that coordinates with the bridal party or is simply exclusive for the wedding . Everyone is dressed to the nines and so should your pup ! A day this special deserves beautiful attire for all .”
— Laurie Ruttenberg , president of Lucky Dog Resort , luckydogresortri . com
THE PAWFECT GUEST LIST
“ Let ’ s face it , our dogs are members of our family . To have them included on your wedding day will make your family guest list complete ! Let our pet care experts design a package for you that includes boarding , grooming and escorting your pup to your special day .”
— Heidi Durand-Lenz , owner of Bow chika Wow Town , bowchikawowtown . com
LEAVE IT TO THE PROS
“ Most couples who choose a professional establishment to care for their pup before , during and after the ceremony also choose to have them vacation with us as well . Doing so helps their pup to relax , have fun with new friends and bond to their wedding valet . It also helps the couple to relax , knowing their fur baby is in the hands of professional , loving caregivers .”
— Laurie Ruttenberg , president of Lucky Dog Resort , luckydogresortri . com
SECURING YOUR SPOT
“ For those planning your wedding within a one-year engagement , I suggest reaching out to your venue and essential vendors right away :
venue , band / DJ , photographer / videographer , planner , etc . Vendors are booking up quickly and if you don ’ t start early , you may be spending more money with less options of a vendor that works best with your style and budget . A planner can find vendors that best fit your style and budget , making this process extremely less stressful . Stick local : It is much easier to find availability with smaller vendors and local companies , and they are much easier to work with .”
— Rachel Koger , owner of Cose Bella Wedding Planning , cosebellaevents . com
POWER THROUGH
“ When considering having a backyard wedding , keep in mind you may have to rent kitchen equipment , a kitchen tent and even a generator .”
— Rachel Koger , owner of Cose Bella Wedding Planning , cosebellaevents . com
SMART SPENDING
“ Set a budget and stick to it ! Going over budget can force you to push out your wedding date . Remember to be reasonable with your vision and budget — after all , what matters is your love for each other .”
— Rachel Koger , owner of Cose Bella Wedding Planning , cosebellaevents . com
INTRODUCTIONS
“ Be sure to tell all your vendors how you would like to be announced , especially if you aren ’ t changing your last name . This way you have no embarrassing mistakes on your big day .”
— Rachel Koger , owner of Cose Bella Wedding Planning , cosebellaevents . com
THE PERFECT MATCH
“ Do your research , see their style , their social media presence , reviews and recommendations , and also what makes one wedding planner stand out over another . Of course , you want someone who ’ s experienced and professional but that also fits within your budget . You need to find someone that you click with . You ’ ll be spending a lot of time with them leading up to your wedding , so you want to make sure you find the right fit both professionally and on a personal level .”
— Nadia Sorvilla , founder and CEO , Imperfectly Perfect Weddings & Events , imperfectlyperfectweddings . com
CHECK ONE , TWO
“ If you are planning on having a friend play your ceremony music in lieu of a DJ / band for your ceremony , couples tend to forget they need a microphone and PA system for the officiant and their vows . Be sure you have a sound system so your guests can hear you .”
— Rachel Koger , owner of Cose Bella Wedding Planning , cosebellaevents . com
LAST-MINUTE TOUCHES
“ We find day-of coordinators are one of the last vendors considered yet often make the biggest difference in a happily ever after . Most couples DIY their big day , opting out of a wedding planner with the hope of reducing budget cost . However , many realize too late that they need someone to coordinate vendors , liaise with the venue and take care of all the minor details leading up to the event . A great day-of coordinator can reduce the stress and anxiety not only on the special day , but even months leading up to it !”
— Agnes Pizzaro , chief operations officer of TMW Productions LLC , tmwproductions . biz
22 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2023