Original Wedding: Angie & Mike

Angie and Mike were one of the first couples to book us last year and I had been looking forward to their wedding from the day that we signed the contract! Angie was my very first "offbeat bride" and I was thrilled to see the wedding come together. (Side note-- Offbeat, as defined by Offbeat Bride, simply means not conforming to an ordinary type or pattern.) Angie and Mike were both very specific about their wedding being different than your typical wedding, but still being "appropriate for grandma". They wanted to nix the cake cutting, bouquet and garter tossing and all of the frilly traditions for something more their style. What did we end up with? An Irish dance performance, Scottish attire for the groom, DIY organza flowers, whimsical centerpieces and a zombie-themed cake (their engagement photos were also zombie-themed)! Seeing tons of different elements come so smoothly together into one wedding is one of my favorite things as a planner, and Angie & Mike's wedding definitely rocked!

My favorite things:

1. The cupcakes. Oh. My. Gosh. Not only were they so perfectly designed, they were also the best cupcakes I have ever had. Ever.
2. Irish dancing being incorporated into the wedding. Guests were able to enjoy a performance along with dinner, which is so unexpected at your typical wedding. And the dancers-- They were little kids. So cute!
3. The sparkler exit! Always a fan favorite.

Things I learned:

1. Weddings are not an exception to Murphy's Law. When a hairdresser is unable to make it, and the bride finds out only hours before pictures, call EVERY SINGLE salon within a 5 10 15 mile radius. You will get  in touch with someone willing to rush over!
2. Babysitters babysitter babysitters. Want the feeling of an adult affair without actually uninviting the children in the family? Ask those with kids if their babysitter is available and have a "kids only" area. Parents will love you for it. Kids will feel special. It's a win-win!
3. Don't be afraid to stay 100% true to yourself while planning a wedding. Angie and Mike took a lot of traditions out and added a lot of elements that were uniquely them and I heard not one complaint from guests! As a matter of fact, guests loved the Irish dancers and I'm sure the single ladies were happy to not have to catch yet another bouquet... whatever you want your wedding to be-- Go for it!

Angie & Mike-- It was a pleasure coordinating your wedding. I wish you a zombie-filled, happy life together!

Venue: Thomas Birkby House
Caterer: Grandale Restaurant
Coordinator: NoLo Weddings & Events
Photographer: Brooke Galligan
DJ: David Rastatter
Irish Dancers: Boyle School of Irish Dance