*VENDORS*
Photography- Rueban (Fred Fox)
We decided to go with Fred Fox, because they did a great job with other weddings of our friends/family. Although we knew some of their photographers were a little 'out dated' if you will. So, when it came to picking the specific photographer, we decided to go with their best/premier photographer Rueban. He is very talented in many different photographic styles and album designs. Although he is more $$ then the others, we are confident that he is worth it after viewing his work. We also went with a larger company for the comfort of knowing if (god forbid) something happened and Rueban could not make it, we would be guaranteed a replacement. We will be doing an engagement sessions later this year where we will be able to finally meet with him in person. We are not sure if we are going to get a videographer yet. Rumor has it that Fred Fox will call you a week or so prior to the wedding and offer the videography for a HUGE discount. So we'll see......... Approximate cost $3200
Florist- Wallflower Designs
After doing lots of research, we ended up going with Marla Johnston from Wallflower Designs. She actually was a preferred vendor of Cantigny. We first met and saw Marla's work at the Cantigny Bridal Expo. We loved what we saw, and thought she was a very friendly, calm, and talented person. She use to do work for Elizabeth Wray Floral Designs(which is a very reputable, expensive company), but then ventured off to start her own business that she runs right out of her home!! Very reasonable prices and very flexible!! She also did a wedding for a friend of mine, and she was very happy with her flowers! Approximate cost $2000 (no centerpeices, thats a DYI for us)
DJ- Music by Design
We encountered Music by Design at our first major wedding expo that we attended. We really liked them right off the bat, but we didnt book them for a few months just so we could do our research and make sure we made the best choice. I definately think we did by booking them!! They are a very modern DJ company with a NO CHEESE policy. Our DJ, Jeff, was super nice, and not weird or dorky at all! They even give you your own website for you to customize the music you want/ dont want, get everyones name and info, timelines etc. That way there is no confusion, and you get exactly what you want!! PHEW!! Approximate cost $1200
DOC- Denise Pape (Weddings By Denise)
Originally we were not planning on getting a DOC. But, we knew we wouldnt get much help from Cantigny the day of for odds and ends. We also heard from SEVERAL people that hiring a DOC was the best $ they spent. Denise was also a preferred vendor from Cantigny, so that was comforting knowing she was familiar with the location. Once we met with her and realized ALL the things that she and her assistant help with, I just KNEW we had to hire her!! I know it will be such a huge stress reliever knowing that they will be taking care of everything the day of our wedding. It is very comforting too, knowing that all the hard work that will have been put into this wedding will be organized and executed that day without us having to worry about a thing! Approximate cost $1100
Officiant
Since we are getting married at Cantigny, we needed to hire an officaint to conduct the ceremony. We had been recommended by several people, Reverend Jim Rehnberg. Otherwise known as Rent-a-Rev. Sounds super cheesy, but he really has been amazing to work with. He has been doing this for YEARS and knows it all like the back of his hand. He is very flexible and helpful with the ceremony outline. He gives you so many options and great advice. I'm very happy to have him marry us!!! Approximate cost $850
Harpist
Approximate cost $400
Photobooth- Shutterbooth
Following with the new trend, we decided to get a photobooth for the reception. We thought it would be something fun and unique for our guests to enjoy. It will also double as our favors and guests book. Each guest will get 2 copies of their photobooth pics, one to keep and one to put into a guest book with a special message for us!! We have a perfect space for it too, right outside of the main room so it wont be distracting. I cant wait to see the crazy photos that will be taken!!! Especially after everyones had a few drinkies!! Approximate cost $1200 (which includes all of our extras)
Formally Modern Tux
Uplighting & Gobo-MDM Entertainment
Approximate cost-$500 for uplighting $250 for gobo
HAIR-Beauty on Call
Approximate cost-$250(me) $100(BMs and moms)
A L'AMOUR
Also, picked out the BM dresses there too- B2/Belsoie is the designer. I picked the color, fabric and length. Then all the girls get to pick a different style of their choice to wear!! Very resonably priced, and of course EMMY was soooo helpful with this process!!!