The list of items needing to be done before the wedding day seems to be almost endless. That list appears to play games with your imagination, seemingly growing longer as the day approaches. Luckily, it is possible to find every service you would want and/or need for your Maine wedding. The easiest way to go about things is to hire a wedding planner. But if you are the independent sort that loves a challenge, just take hold of that list and show it who really is “the boss.”
Maine Wedding Attire Shops
Once you have your wedding venue picked out, it’s time to pick out wedding attire that matches the occasion. In Maine, you may be getting married on a sun-swept beach where something less formal and bare feet fit the bill. Heels don’t work well in sand. Then again, you may decide to have a more traditional formal affair at the First Parish Church in Portland, built in 1825 and, as of 1973, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The long white gown, tux, and acres of flowers are a must.
Find bridal shops and tuxedo rental firms throughout the state, mostly near the larger population centers of Greater Portland, Augusta, and Bangor. Sometimes you will find bride and groom outfits at the same place. Examples are The Henry’s in Bangor and Maine Coast Weddings & Special Events in Rockport. You can also get your dress from a wholesaler.
This is also a time to think about where you will be getting your hair and makeup done and whether you will be picking up accessories and/or gifts for your wedding party. Most bridal boutiques have working relationships with local professionals and will offer referrals.
Maine Bridal Registries
A number of retail stores throughout Maine offer bridal registry services. This service allows couples to select their gift preferences at the various stores. Either the bride’s family or the store gets the message out to the wedding guests. This saves duplication of gifts and insures the couple will receive items they will actually use.
A variation of this is the honeymoon registry. Working with a travel agency, the couple chooses their preferred honeymoon trip, and then notices are sent out, via the agency or guests, of the honeymoon and/or budget selected. Even if couples aren’t using a honeymoon registry, it is possible to go through the travel agency to send gifts, such as champagne and chocolates, fruit baskets, or flowers, to be in the couple’s hotel room, or ship’s cabin, on arrival. Travel agencies are also handy to help with transportation and/or accommodations for out-of-town family and guests.
Maine Bridal Shows – One Stop Wedding Shopping
If you happen to be in town for one of Maine’s bridal shows, this is one way to learn about the latest trends in weddings. One of the largest is the Bliss Bridal Show in Portland. At previous events, there were over 120 exhibitors offering education and services on everything from dance lessons to how and where to plan your bachelor or bachelorette party. Vendors included travel agencies, day spas, horse & carriage vendors, caterers, party rental firms, photographers, and wedding consultants. Drawings are usually held for donated items and/or services.
The Maine Wedding Association holds an annual show in Maine; the January event is held in Bangor. Bridal shows really are informative and fun one-stop wedding shopping. No matter if you are in the beginning stages of your wedding planning, or almost at the finish line, these shows are great for getting fresh ideas to make your special day the best ever. If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed, that’s also not a problem. Maine bridal shows are the perfect place to find your personal wedding planner. Leave the “driving” to someone else and enjoy your wedding experience from beginning to end.
