10 Unique Entertainment Options for Your Cocktail Hour

These fun ideas are sure to impress your guests during cocktail hour.

You’re already planning the most epic wedding of the year. So, why not take cocktail hour up a notch? If you’re scratching your brain trying to think of fun, unique entertainment options for your cocktail hour, Brides of Long Island has you covered. These 10 unique entertainment options are sure to impress your guests.

1 – Aerialists
These impressive artists can twirl, hang, flip and much more – all up in the air. Your guests will be amazed at these talented individuals. Bonus points if you have them pouring something like champagne as they hang upside down.

2 – Drag Queens
Have them walk around, pass h’orderves or perform in a separate area. Make them part of the wedding too! Have them come out into the reception and join your guests on the dance floor! Everyone will be sure to be having a blast.

3 – Standup Comedians
Instead of the usual easy listening music in the background, have a standup comedian perform at your cocktail hour. Just let them know if there are any jokes they should steer away from.

MORE: 10 Alternatives to a Traditional Guest Book

4 – Dueling Pianos
This is a fun one! You have great entertainment with music – all while having them joke around. Plus, it keeps your guests involved by having them request songs!

5 – Game Stations
This is a great option for those brides looking for unique entertainment but who are also on a budget. The sky’s the limit with game stations. You could set up some video games, board games or go bigger with bocce ball, mini golf, giant Jenga and so much more!

6 – Live Artists or Cartoonists
This could be a good option if you’re also stumped on favors. Having a live artist or cartoonish available for guests is a great way to let them take home a fun keepsake.

7 – School Band/Chorus/Orchestra
This is a great option for teachers looking to bring their students to their wedding.. Or maybe you met your future spouse in school. Or maybe you just have a lot of school spirit. Whatever the reason, having a school band, chorus or orchestra perform at your cocktail hour is a fun way to entertain your guests.

MORE: 5 Unique Party Favors Your Guests Will LOVE

8 – Fake Tattoos (Personalized)
These are fun for guests. Set up a station with paper towels, water and temporary tattoos. (You could also hire someone to apply them for guests too). Bonus points if you have fun, personalized tattoos to commemorate the day.

9 – Scavenger Hunt
This can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Provide your guests with a list of things to look out for. Incorporate your food stations to keep it simple. Or hide things around your venue for an elaborate hunt! Again, a great option in lieu of favors.

10 – Magician
Hear us out on this one! Magicians aren’t just for kids. Have a space for them to perform simple magic tricks to wow your guys.

Click here to see BOLI’s list of preferred vendors to add some fun to your wedding too!

Just remember, however you decide to up your cocktail hour game will be sure to impress your guests.

Get the items you want and need – WITHOUT stressing your guests. Here are 8 registry mistakes you’ll want to avoid

There are two kinds of brides – the ones who can’t wait to pick out china patterns, stand mixers, and multi-use InstantPots, and the ones who’d rather forego the physical gifts for cold hard cash. Whatever your preference, a registry of most-wanted gifts – even if it’s a relatively small list – is a wedding necessity. 

What goes on that list is up to you and your fiancé, but there are a few registry mistakes that can befall many brides-to be. Before you pick up that price gun or start clicking through Amazon, take note of these common registry mistakes and how to avoid making them:

• MORE: Wedding Gift Etiquette – Long Island vs. the Nation

Registry Mistake #1: Not making a registry at all

We get it – the idea of a registry is a bit old school. So many couples live together long before the topic of marriage is even discussed, building homes (and families) together for years. Do you really need a blender or a set of knives when the ones you have are working just fine? Maybe not, but you should still compile a registry – even if you’ve stated your preference for monetary gifts. While cash is king on Long Island, etiquette norms are quite different in other parts of the country. If you’re inviting guests from other states (or guests of a certain age), it’s possible they’ll consider a cash or check gift incredibly tacky and decide to get you a physical item instead. In that case, you might as well get something you want or need!

Avoid this mistake by making a small registry of gifts for guests who prefer physical gifts. Use this as an opportunity to upgrade your home goods!

Registry Mistake #2: Waiting too late to register

This is an important point to consider if you’re planning on having a bridal shower. You want to give your guests enough time to select and purchase items from your registry, and enough time for those items to be sent – especially if you want to open gifts during your party! Friends and loved ones may also want to send you a token of congratulations on your engagement, and if you’ve got a registry set up, you can direct them to that list. 

Avoid this mistake by setting up your registry in a timely manner (like shortly after you’ve solidified the date).

 

Registry Mistake #3: Not including gifts in enough price points 

Take inventory of your guest list, and it’s likely you’ll find a wide range of ages, professions, and incomes. If your registry only includes higher-end items, you may essentially “price out” a good portion of your guests. On the flip side –  if your registry only includes low-to-mid-range-priced items, guests who want to spend a certain dollar amount will have to buy up a lot of your list and leave others with slim pickings.  

Avoid this mistake by including gifts in all price categories, like items below $50, items that are $50-100, and items over $100.

Registry Mistake #4: Registering for items you already have

Have you ever been lured by an insane Target sale, only to discover that you already have the pair of boots you got for 50% off? It’s okay – we’ve all been a bit too impulsive when in the heat of the (shopping) moment. Before you sit down to make your registry, take stock of what you already own. You may even find it helpful to make itemized lists of what you already have, what you need, and what you’d like to upgrade.

Avoid this mistake by looking around at your kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom BEFORE compiling your registry. 

• MORE: Registry Must-Haves for Every BOLI

Registry Mistake #5: Not registering at enough places

Sure, Amazon has EVERYTHING. But some guests may prefer purchasing your gift from another retail outlet, and some may prefer selecting your gift in-person. Give your guests options – you may even consider using a universal registry from Zola or The Knot.

Avoid this mistake by registering for items at a variety of retailers, or setting up a universal registry.

Registry Mistake #6: Not including honeymoon or house funds on the registry

Your closest friends and family may know you’re looking for a home or planning an epic vacation, but others may not have a clue. Universal registries allow you to include honeymoon or house funds, so be sure to take advantage of this feature! Many guests would prefer to throw cash your way for big life plans, and including these on your registry makes it easy to contribute.

Avoid this mistake by choosing a registry platform that allows you to include cash gifts.

Registry Mistake #7: Registering without understanding return or exchange policies

Not all return and exchange policies are created equal! Make sure you fully understand the protocols at each place you register. You don’t want to be stuck with an item you end up not wanting or needing, just because you couldn’t return or exchange it. 

Avoid this mistake by researching each retailers return and exchange policies. Be sure to make note of associated costs and return windows. 

Registry Mistake #8: Forgetting the Thank You notes

Planning a wedding takes A LOT of time and energy. And once the big day has come and gone, it’s so tempting to close the books and move on with the rest of your lives together! But it’s vitally important that you express your gratitude. Make sure you write those thank you notes! Remember – you have a full year to complete them, so split up your guest list and tackle a few each day.

Avoid this mistake by completing your thank you notes in a timely manner. Common etiquette is within a year of the wedding. Manage your time by setting a goal for each week (i.e., write and send 5 cards a week).

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, we spoke with Emily Palleschi about how she changed her venue six months before her wedding date.

When Emily Palleschi and her now-husband Jack were quarantined because he got COVID shortly after their engagement, Emily went right to work planning their wedding. Little did she know that about six months before the big day, her original venue would be changing caterers by the time her March 17 wedding date came around. But as luck would have it, not only was another Lessing’s venue available for their date, it was a venue she was happy to have!

A Pandemic Proposal

Emily and Jack met through mutual friends in 2014. They became official in 2015, and got engaged at the end of 2021. Jack proposed inside a terminal at JFK Airport as Emily was coming back from seeing her family in south Florida. “We started our relationship as long distance, and then I moved to New York,” she explains. “I was flying in from seeing my family during the holiday season to come home and spend the holidays with him.” She says it was a really special moment.

While part of the pandemic was in the rearview mirror, cases were ticking back up at the time. Shortly after their engagement, they had an engagement dinner with family, and Jack got COVID. “We were stuck in a bedroom for 10 days, but I never got sick,” Emily says. “I pretty much planned the entire wedding that week!”

Venue Swap

Emily says one of the reasons she chose Smithtown Landing Country Club was because they offered an all-inclusive vendor package. In addition, she liked that Lessing’s was the caterer. Since she had everything booked early for their March 17, 2023 wedding, Emily says the planning went very smoothly. That is, until late September, when she found out that Lessing’s would no longer be the caterer at Smithtown Landing as of January 2023. However, she says within days of finding out, and stressing out, Lessing’s contacted her with a list of venues that would be available for her wedding. “I know that Lessing’s is such a credible company that I wanted to keep my contract with them,” Emily says. “And they were really great with the transition.”

Emily says she got really lucky, as there were six different Lessing’s venues available on her date. And what did she choose? “It was a no-brainer when I knew I could just switch over to the Mansion at Oyster Bay (a BOLI preferred vendor).” She says everything she booked was honored at the new venue – including the pricing. Emily adds that she actually really lucked out, as some things that were included at the Mansion at Oyster Bay, such as a groom’s suite and breakfast, were not part of the package at Smithtown Landing. “We saved in a lot of areas [by switching],” she says.

MORE: How to stick to your wedding budget

Honoring Her Grandparents

Emily and Jack’s wedding day was very family oriented. Emily’s father was the minister who married them. And her grandparents were their flower girl and ring bearer. “They’re the only set of grandparents that are still alive,” she says. “That was really special to me because I grew up with them in South Florida and I’m really, really close with them.”

A moment that stood out to Emily? “The anniversary dance!” she says. “That was special because I got to see all of the important couples in my life the day of the wedding.” She says she loved standing back with Jack and watching all of the married couples dancing together, eventually leaving her grandparents by themselves – as they have been married the longest.

MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

Keeping Planning Simple

Luck really was on Emily’s side during planning, as well as her big day on St. Patrick’s Day. She says all of her vendors were great, and she was grateful for Absolute Entertainment, a BOLI preferred vendor, for keeping the party going. She does feel planning her wedding during the off season helped a lot with keeping things simple as well.
Emily says what kept her stress level low was not giving herself too many options. “I think the best advice I heard was planning is only as stressful as you make it.” She says it’s important for brides to try and keep the planning simple. “Only include who you need to help you with certain things,” she says. “When you have too many outside opinions, it can really skew how you see your own day.”

Vendors:
Venue: The Mansion at Oyster Bay, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photographer: Emily Denny Photography
Videography: Park Avenue Studio, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: Absolute Entertainment, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Tom’s Towers Flowers in West Islip, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Hair: Beauty Mark Spa in Islip, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Makeup: Beauty Mark Spa in Islip
Invitations: Minted
Dress: Allure #9802 Bridal Suite of Bay Shore
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Kalea Style in Desert Rose
Cake: Cakes by Brittany
Tuxedos: Macy’s
Teeth Whitening: Smile Bar, a BOLI Preferred Vendor 

Your mind is filled with so much on your wedding day, so it’s important to try and be present to enjoy the day.

With all the planning and preparation that goes into a wedding, it’s very common that we forget to actually enjoy the day. From worrying about the final details to remembering that you’re marrying the love of your life, we often get wrapped up in a day that goes by so quickly. This is why it’s important to be aware and present for the day. There are several ways you can do this. Here are eight tips for practicing mindfulness on your wedding day.

1 – Take Moments Throughout the Day
So many graduated brides will tell you that it’s super important to take moments throughout the day to just take it all in. And yes, this can be hard. But talk to your future spouse, enlist the help of your bride tribe or family members and even let your bridal attendant know to remind you at several points during the day to look around and just be in the moment. Take in all of the love that surrounds you. Take mental pictures that will be ingrained in your memory for years to come.

2 – Put Your Phone Down
Yes, this means you! So many people will be taking photos and tagging you in their social media posts that you won’t need your phone. In fact, leave it in the bridal suite for the day. No one is going to be calling or texting you because everyone will be at your wedding! Plus, you paid a lot of money for people to capture your day with photos and/or videos. Put the phone down and be present on your big day.

3 – Focus On Your Breathing
Your wedding day is nerve-wrecking. You’re being whisked around. Talking to so many people. Remembering to get everything done that you wanted to do – from pictures to dancing and more. Take a minute and breathe. But really focus on your breathing. Head into your bridal suite and just take a few breaths. Once you really focus on your breathing, your body will calm down and you can focus on your surroundings and enjoying yourself.

MORE: I’m a Shy Bride – How Do I Handle Being the Center of Attention?

4 – Step Away From the Crowds
Your wedding day can be overwhelming to say the least. So many people want to take photos with you and say hello. They want to share in your joy with you. But sometimes, you may want to step away. And that’s OK. That’s why all venues have a bridal suite. But maybe you just want to get outside, or even head into the bathroom. Anywhere that’s away from the crowd. Grab your new spouse if you want. Either way, these few minutes will allow you to reset and focus on the day.

5 – Be Aware of What’s Going On Around You
Weddings are a whirlwind from the moment you wake up, to the moment you finally get home (or to a hotel room) with your new spouse. And similar to taking a moment to take in your surroundings, it’s important to actually be aware of your surroundings. Sure, you can take that moment to just eat some food quickly or put on more lipstick, but you need to really soak it in. Realize that everything is there for you and your spouse. Everyone there just wants you to be happy and bask in your newlywed glow. So, when you take that moment, really focus on being aware of what is actually going on. It’s OK, tissues are very close by.

6 – Love Yourself!
When practicing mindfulness, you need to remember to love yourself. And this is especially important when practicing mindfulness on your wedding day. So quickly, we can fall into self-doubts, worrying about what everyone else thinks. Get those thoughts out of your head. Look in the mirror and love yourself. Once you love yourself, everything else should fall into place.

MORE: 4 Things You Should Do The Night Before Your Wedding

7 – Connect With Your Guests – In Your Own Way
Yes, it’s very important to greet your guests, say hello and thank them for coming. Figure out the best way to do that beforehand with your significant other. Then let your bridal attendant and maitre’d know ahead of time, so they can help you make it happen. But do it your own way. Some brides will tell you they went to their cocktail hour so they could enjoy it and mingle with guests early. This way, they had more time during the reception. Other brides will tell you they made a point to visit each table. You do you! You know yourself, and your guests, best.

8 – Stay Hydrated
With all of the running around, picture taking and dancing, you might forget to stay hydrated. And while you may want to have some adult cocktails, it’s important to drink water throughout the whole day. Not only will the water keep you going, it will relax you, and help you to stay cool – literally and figuratively.

MORE: How ‘Taking a Pause’ Helped This BOLI Truly Remember Her Wedding Day

Whatever you do to practice mindfulness on your wedding day, just remember to stay calm and enjoy yourself. You’ve spent months making sure everything will be perfect – and it will be. So sit back, take a look around and remember, you got this!

“That time of the month” aligning with “you may now kiss the bride”? Here’s what to do if you’re supposed to get your period on your wedding day

It WOULD be like Aunt Flo to show up to your wedding uninvited. 

We get it. The thought of donning a (very white and probably fitted) dress while on your period can put a real damper on the fun. Throw in cramps while you’re saying your vows, or pausing your first dance to change a tampon, pad, or cup, and you officially have the most disruptive guest possible – worse than your cousin’s twin toddlers.

But even if you’re supposed to start (or be in the middle of) your period on your wedding day, there are some ways you can reduce its impact or even delay its onset altogether. 

• MORE: 11 Things That Should be on Your Last Minute Wedding Checklist

Prep for the start of your cycle

It’s a good idea to be aware of your menstrual cycle patterns just for your general health, but it’s especially important in the months leading up to your big day. If you’ve never tracked your cycle before, there are plenty of free apps (like Flo or My Calendar) that make the process pretty easy. 

You can always go the old-fashioned route too, using a paper calendar, pencil, and good ol’ math. Day 1 of your cycle is always the first day of your period, and the length of your cycle is the number of days until the start of your next period. So for example, if your period starts on February 24th and then again on March 24th, congrats – you’ve had a 28-day cycle.  

Make note of certain trends, like the average length of each cycle (a “normal” cycle ranges between 21 and 35 days), the days you experience the heaviest flow, and the duration and severity of any symptoms. Once you’ve gathered a few months worth of data, count your way to the wedding day (or consult your tracking app) and plan ahead. Speak to your doctor about any safe methods to reduce symptoms, tell your maid of honor to carry a few extra tampons, or explore using different feminine products that may be easier to work with while wearing Spanx.

Skip the start of your cycle

If you’re on hormonal birth control, you may be tempted to “skip the white pills” and prevent the onset of your menstrual cycle. But is doing so safe? As with most things wedding-related, you’ll want to prepare ahead of time.

“For women with regular cycles monthly and no major medical issues, early planning is key,” says Christine Chen, MD., MPH, FACOG, an OBGYN with Guthrie Medical Group. “Early planning involves making an appointment to see primary care physicians or or obstetricians-gynecologists at least 3 months prior to the wedding to see if the preferred method of birth control will achieve the desired effect. The preparation time can be considered as a ‘test run.’”

Which birth control options will work? “The best choice is a combined birth control method that contains both estrogen and progesterone,” Dr. Chen advises. “A progesterone-only method can also work. There are several options for both combined estrogen and progesterone or progesterone-only methods.”

• MORE: 20 Self Care Ideas During Wedding Planning

If you’re worried about side effects or risks, it’s once again important to speak with your doctor.  “Early planning by visiting and discussing your expectations with your physicians can decrease your risks of irregular bleeding and spotting, which are common side effects with birth control methods to delay cycle onset,” explains Dr. Chen. “There are a few risks in taking new medication in general, such as intolerance and common side effects listed by the manufacturers. With estrogen-containing methods, risks can be related to clotting disorder, lipid and cardiac effects with age, smoking status, or personal or family history of clotting disorders, certain cancers, and medical conditions.”

“It is highly recommended to consider a form of birth control to decrease risks of unplanned pregnancy, and in turn, it can delay the onset of your cycle,” Dr. Chen continues. “It is advised to start with your primary care physicians, obstetricians-gynecologists or healthcare providers to discuss health history and expectations to make a decision that can achieve your goal.”

Whether you decide to rough it out or prevent the start of your period, making an informed decision with your medical team is fundamental!

From a premiere Estate to a rustic vineyard, East Wind Long Island caters to whatever brides want for their wedding.

When you visit East Wind Long Island, a BOLI preferred vendor, you are immediately wow’d by how beautiful the property is. From the main Inn, with its two ballrooms (that can be converted into the Grand Ballroom), the Veranda, a spa and Desmond’s restaurant, to the Estate, Vineyards and, of course, the Shoppes, you really do have it all in one venue. Whatever size guest list you have, and whatever theme or style you want, you’re bound to find a space at East Wind Long Island that will match exactly what you’re looking for.

A Community Staple

East Wind Long Island Owner Ken Barra says he has been in the North Fork community for almost 50 years. He started in the food business with a pizzeria. From there, he says his restaurant grew and started hosting parties. “I knew I had to find something else to host events,” says Ken. “We purchased a Knights of Columbus in the early 90s, and that’s how I started in the wedding business.”

Ken says East Wind Long Island is a labor of love. “There’s no way you can be here with that amount of time, if you don’t love what you’re doing.” And he really enjoys the business. Since the 90s, Ken has expanded East Wind Long Island into what it is today – 28 acres filled with beautiful spaces for weddings, shoppes, restaurants and even a carousel.

East Wind Long Island is a family-owned business, so when you book with them, you become part of the family. In fact, Ken says that a lot of his team has been with him from the very beginning. “We’re all trying to achieve the same goal.” And that goal? Making sure couples have the best day of their lives!

Plenty of Choices

East Wind Long Island has five beautiful spaces for brides to choose from. Each space has different capacities, with different décor, and different price points. Inside the Inn are three different spaces, the Northampton, the Southampton and the Veranda. The Northampton and Southampton can hold between 250 – 300 – so they are perfect for larger parties. According to Ken, if you need an even larger space, you can open up those rooms into the Grand Ballroom, which can fit up to 1,200 guests with a full dance floor. Then, upstairs in the Inn is the Veranda, which has an outdoor balcony and can hold up to 140 guests.

There are other separate spaces at East Wind Long Island. The Vineyards has a more rustic feel, can hold up to 150 guests, and is an actual working vineyard. However, according to Director of Marketing Charlotte Coté, they are just hosting weddings right now, but the grapes are coming in. “The one thing that’s nice about the vineyards is we don’t charge a site fee,” says Ken.

Finally, there’s East Wind Long Island’s premiere property, the Estate. “It’s over 14,000-square-feet with two different cocktail rooms, plus a full outdoor patio,” says Ken. “It also features high ceilings with plenty of windows and skylights throughout.” It can hold up to 300 guests, and will be the home to the BOLI Soiree in July! “We’re really looking forward to that,” says Ken.

MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

And the great thing about the Vineyards and the Estate is that they are completely separate buildings with their own parking and catering. They both offer one wedding at a time, according to Charlotte. And while there could be more than one wedding at the Inn, Ken assures his brides that with the entrances on the opposite side of the buildings, everything is completely separate.

Make It a Weekend Celebration

When you plan your wedding at East Wind Long Island, no matter the space, you have so much more at your fingertips. You could actually plan an entire wedding weekend celebration – complete with spa days and hotel stays. Inside the Inn are the hotel rooms, as well as Desmond’s restaurant, the spa and North Fork Bridal Shoppe, a BOLI preferred vendor. Ken suggests hosting your rehearsal dinner or even a morning after breakfast at Desmond’s. Or if you want to keep the wedding party going, you have the option to extend time in your space or head over to Desmond’s for an after party.

In addition, there are the Shoppes right next door. There you can find any vendor you need for your wedding. From a photographer and florist to a jeweler and Ruggero’s Restaurant, which is great for rehearsal dinners.

MORE: What you feel when you find THE dress

And if you’re looking for beautiful – and fun pictures, “We have 28 acres that are manicured specifically for pictures,” says Ken. Plus, they have a Carousel over at the Shoppes. “Brides love going over there and taking pictures on the carousel.”

East Wind Long Island does offer all-inclusive packages, which include a DJ, flowers, photographer and overnight accommodations at the Inn. In addition, they have a bunch of preferred vendors that they work with. And they do offer special pricing for room blocks for guests.

Anything You Want

Ken says that East Wind Long Island is always changing with what is popular. In fact, he says when he used to tour the spaces with potential East Wind couples, he’d listen to the questions they had and make notes of things they were interested in for possible future changes. “We change with the times. Our Vineyard was the Cottage, then it was the Gardens,” says Ken. “When the vineyards became popular, we changed it again.”

MORE: 7 alternatives to a traditional wedding cake

Both Ken and Charlotte recall over the years they’ve had horses at some weddings. And a long time ago, they say they had an elephant for an Indian wedding.

Basically anything goes (within reason, of course) when you plan your wedding at East Wind Long Island. Ken recalls a bride recently wanted to have her wedding in the parking lot! “So, we put up a tent in the parking lot,” says Ken. “Whatever you want. You want it on the roof? Let’s go!”

Whatever space you choose, no matter what ideas you come up with, Charlotte says brides should never be worried about their wedding day. “Let us do the work,” she says. “We have the best staff that handles everything. Just relax and enjoy the day.”

It’s not a party without the food! Here are the best catering options on Long Island

What’s a wedding (or a bridal shower or bachelorette) without some tasty treats? Sure, your venue will serve up some delicious fare. But if you’re looking for something a little extra – the “cherry on top,” if you will – here are seven of the best catering options on Long Island, from full service companies to trucks and apes!

• MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

Hostess with the Mostess

Owner Stephanie McLaughlin specializes in bringing the full dining experience to you! As a full service company, Hostess with the Mostess provides mouth-watering food, knowledgable and friendly staff, experienced chefs and grillers, and everything else you need for an epic party (including the alcohol!) Whether you’re dreaming of wedding in a location without in-house catering, or want an epic spread for your bachelorette, Hostess with the Mostess can bring your event to (delicious) life.

• MORE: From Intimate Backyard Weddings to Epic Bachelor Weekends, Hostess With The Mostess Has You Covered

Dolce & Gelato Catering

From their gelato and coffee trucks to their spritz bikes and pizza ovens, Dolce & Gelato has one mission: to provide you with luxurious culinary and sensory experiences that are anything but ordinary. Sip champagne from one of their vintage carts, ask for a few scoops from one of their trucks, and pose for some amazing pictures on one of their bikes! Dolce & Gelato brings a special sense of sophistication to any event.

• MORE: 8 of the Best Vendors for Bridal Beauty Prep

Charcuterie Babe

Everyone needs a little nosh, no matter what the event. Charcuterie Babe’s custom boards and tables will wow your guests with show-stopping displays and delectable nibbles for cocktail hours, morning-after brunches, bachelorette weekends, or any wedding event! Plus – how cute is this MRS charcuterie board? I mean come on!

 

Mobile Delights and Sweet Treats

With over 30 years in the event industry, Mobile Delights and Sweet Treats will be the talk of your after-party. Whether you’ve got a craving for White Castle, Taco Bell, or a few classic candies, Mobile Delights and Sweet Treats will deliver the tried-and-true snacks that hit the spot after a night of dancing. They can even drive by on “the morning after” with donuts and coffee!

 

Babylon Cheese Cellar

Nothing tastes as good as a meat and cheese plate, and Babylon Cheese Cellar makes one of the best on the Island! They source their artisanal cheeses and charcuterie directly from the producers, and offer in-house custom tastings to ensure you’ll love everything on your grazing table. As they say – “nothing brings people together like cheese!”

The Cocktail Cart

If you love a good cocktail, you’ll definitely want to check out The Cocktail Cart! Their mixologists are exceptional and have years of experience making unique and fun cocktail combinations. Whether you’re a vodka girl or you prefer a great brew (they have a two tap kegerator system  on board!) The Cocktail Cart will deliver your favorite libations. 

The Sicilian Wheel

Everyone loves pizza, which is why The Sicilian Wheel is sure to be a hit on your wedding day. They’re a family-owned and cherished business with roots in (you guessed it!) Sicily, and in every bite you’ll discover why they’re known for their bold flavors and warm hospitality. The Sicilian Wheel will make you feel like family!

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Whether she’s going ghost, behaving badly, or just not stepping up to the plate, you may start to wonder – should I fire my bridesmaid?

Yes, you know (and understand!) the saying “no one will care about your wedding more than you do.” It makes sense – it is YOUR day, after all.

With that said, you’ll want a bridal party made up of people who do truly care about you and your wedding day. The friends and family who’s opinions and insight you trust. And also – let’s be real –  the ones who will be down for an epic bachelorette to Cabo.

But many brides may find themselves somewhat disappointed in their bridesmaids. Maybe it’s the friend who is completely silent in the group chat, or the cousin that can’t make the bachelorette trip (or the bridal shower or the rehearsal dinner), or the future sister-in-law that hates the bridesmaid dresses you’ve chosen along with every other wedding-related decision you’ve made. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to be frustrated, fed up, or hurt by one of your bridesmaid’s actions.

Does that mean you should consider downsizing your bridal party? Is “should I fire my bridesmaid” a valid question to ask yourself when a member of your bride tribe causes nothing but problems?

• MORE: Why She Shouldn’t Be a Bridesmaid

Practicing empathy

It’s really, really easy to take this kind of stuff personally – especially if you were in their bridal party, and worked hard to make things special. But most of the time, a bridesmaid’s misbehavior has very little to do with you. 

Take a moment to consider her current circumstances. Is she quiet in the group chat because she’s got a super demanding job and not much time to text? Is she missing trips and events because she’s a new mom with an infant at home? And while there’s never any excuse for outwardly criticizing all of your decisions, is she hating on your plans because she’s dealing with some jealousy? Or possibly because she just lost her job, and is struggling to afford everything?

It’s important to step outside of yourself and really think about anything your bridesmaid may be going through. That will help you better communicate with her when you discuss your expectations.

• MORE: 16 Must-Have Photos With Your Bridesmaids

Have a conversation

We get it – you wish she’d just change her behavior without having an awkward talk. But it’s possible that she may not even be aware of your feelings (oh, hi there bridechilla). As is the case with any conflict in your life, communication is vitally important.

Set aside some time to speak with your bridesmaid. We recommend getting together in person, but if need be, a phone call will do (skip the texting this time). Start out by asking her simply how she’s doing. She may come clean to you about certain struggles affecting her bridesmaid duties – if that happens, you can take it from there. Be sure to express sympathy and understanding, which shouldn’t be too hard – you love her! Depending on how your conversation goes, you can discuss how to move forward in a way that best serves you both.

If she’s not upfront about anything in particular, you’ll need to bring up your concerns. Avoid any critical or aggressive language, and keep your vocabulary as positive (or at least neutral) as possible. So for example, instead of saying “you’ve gone completely ghost in the group chat,” say “I notice you haven’t been very active in the group conversations, is something going on?” Replace “it’s rude that you didn’t come to my bridal shower or bachelorette” with “I really missed having you at my wedding events.” From there, she may present some reasons for her actions (or lack thereof) and the two of you can come to an agreement on future responsibilities. 

Alternatively, you may find that she gets a bit defensive. If that happens, remember to keep things calm and neutral on your end. And remind her that you love her and care about her wellbeing!

Should you fire your bridesmaid?

A conversation may reveal that your bridesmaid is dealing with some weighty issues. If so, you can start by brainstorming options – maybe she sits out of the bachelorette, or chooses a cheaper dress, or only responds to texts after 6:00pm. Whatever it may be, taking some of the expectations away may help her be fully present for the bigger picture.  

If finding a compromise isn’t really an option, it may be better for you both if she stepped down from the bridal party. And that’s okay! It’s better to clear the air, be open and honest, and make a mutually beneficial decision before animosity and misunderstanding starts to breed. 

Of course, this is all in a perfect world – and if there’s anything we know for sure, it’s that the world isn’t perfect. Unfortunately, sometimes a friend or loved one will hurt us so severely that it impacts the relationship for good. While this is an extreme circumstance, it’s better to “fire” the bridesmaid before the big day than to bury any resentment, affecting what should be one of the most exciting times in your life.

Asking someone to step down from your bridal party is never easy, and usually it’s a last resort. But in some instances, it can be the best decision – for BOTH of you.

• MORE: 3 Tips to Avoid (and Handle) Bridal Party Tension

 

 

 

 

 

You can turn your wedding night into a wedding weekend getaway for you and your guests at Atlantis.

If you are looking to have a fall wedding, Atlantis Banquets & Events, a BOLI preferred vendor, has it all. Centrally located in Riverhead which was named a 2023 Forbes Advisor Top 50 Best International Places to Travel, right near all of the vineyards and farms, it can be the perfect destination wedding spot for you and your guests during fall harvest season without leaving the island.

From the beautiful river backdrop with fall foliage, to the unique and fun opportunities for pictures with sea lions, butterflies and penguins, Atlantis Banquets & Events really does have it all for the most picturesque wedding day. And if that’s not enough, the property is a resort right on Long Island, with a marina, two restaurants and three hotels – yes, three!

MORE: Atlantis Banquets & Events Has Everything You Need For the Perfect Wedding…Including Penguins

Fall On the East End

As soon as you feel that cool, crisp breeze of fall, you are probably thinking about that PSL, warm sweaters and heading out to the East End of Long Island for some fall harvest fun. And if you want to get married in the fall, why wouldn’t you want your guests to enjoy that harvest fun your entire wedding weekend? “There’s so much to do that time of year in the area with the entertainment at the vineyards, farms and farm-to-table restaurants,” says Director of Sales Tony Cotignola. “Not only will your wedding be amazing, but your guests will walk away with an experience of a lifetime.”

Guests can stay at one of those three hotels – the Hyatt Place, the Preston House & Hotel, and the newly opened Howell House. During their stay, they can explore any of the vineyards and farms during the day and enjoy a farm-to-table meal at Preston’s. According to Tony, the owners of Atlantis Banquets & Events also own Raphael Vineyards, so a stop there is highly recommended. And if you’re unsure of where to send your guests, the Hyatt Place does offer a Grape Escape package that is a day trip to three vineyards with a voucher that can be used at one of three local restaurants.

MORE: More Fall Fun ideas on Long Island

Delicious Fall Dishes

During the fall months, Atlantis Banquets & Events has fall décor throughout the aquarium and ballroom. Brides can choose to have their wedding reception in either the Sea Star Ballroom or the Long Island Aquarium or both. They can also choose to have their ceremony outside with the sea lions or hold their cocktail hour under the stars. And don’t worry about those chilly months, as guests can stay warm under heaters that add to the ambiance of the season.

When it comes to food, Director of Food and Beverage Daniel Lanieri says they offer some seasonal menus. Daniel explains that Atlantis Banquets & Events gets majority of its produce from local farms and purveyors on the East End. He adds that on their regular menu is always a seasonal fish. “Our chef will go out and speak with the fishermen on Long Island and find out what is seasonal and local at the time,” says Daniel. During the fall months, Daniel says it’s usually a black sea bass. One of his favorite fall seafood dishes? “Most recently, our chef had a very good black sea bass that he paired with local herbs and microgreens that we get from out here,” says Daniel. “It was a really, really good dish that stood out.”

Some other local produce that you might see on the fall menu at Atlantis Banquets & Events? “Butternut squash, pumpkin, roasted corn, apples even,” says Daniel. “You can make some savory dishes with apples, such as a delicious pork with an apple cherry sauce.” Daniel adds that dishes featuring apples are significantly better in the fall because it’s a higher quality of apples.

MORE: 9 Signature Fall Drinks to Warm Up Your Guests

Upgraded Stations

With the farm-to-table fare at Atlantis Banquets & Events, and having most of the food locally sourced, it’s easy for them to switch up their menus and stations – specifically when it comes to the seasons. A popular cocktail hour station, according to Daniel, is the local craft beverage and food pairing station. “This is where the chef will create a custom menu that includes wines and beers from the area, and pair them with foods produced locally.” And if it’s the fall, particularly in November, Daniel says the chef will usually pair a local wine with a bay scallop – since they’re in season.

Other new stations are more interactive, Daniel says. In addition, Daniel says they’ve added some decadent to-go stations that are getting popular. Think chocolate chip cookies, churros, fried Oreos and more!

Sustainability

As Atlantis Banquets & Events worked to change up their menu and stations, Daniel says they focused on sustainability and being eco-friendly. “A lot of our seafood and the products we get from the farms are environmentally friendly and sustainable,” says Daniel. He adds that they partner with Seafood Watch, an organization that helps customers identify the best fish to purchase of the most sustainable choices.

In addition to the seafood, and adhering to Seafood Watch’s guidelines, Atlantis Banquets & Events makes sure that any of the products that are disposable are biodegradable. “Being part of the aquarium, it’s important that we’re focused on that,” says Daniel.

Brand New Howell House

Across the street from the aquarium and the Hyatt Place are two hotels – The Preston House & Hotel, which features a farm-to-table restaurant, and the brand new Howell House. Tony says that Preston’s is an upscale boutique hotel and restaurant that is perfect for your bridal party or rehearsal dinner.

But if you really want an exclusive experience, you can rent out the entire Howell House for your bridal party and/or family and guests! According to Tony, the Howell House features a living room, dining room and a separate room for your bridal party to get ready. It also has accommodations to sleep up to 12 people, including a two-bedroom suite on the top floor. “Brides and grooms can take over that house for a wedding weekend,” says Tony. “It’s a nice opportunity for the bride and groom and their families and friends.”

Don’t Forget the Penguins

If this luxury, resort opportunity hasn’t convinced you to run, not walk to Atlantis Banquets & Events, then we need to remind you of the unique photo sessions! Yes, that’s right. You can take photos with penguins, sea lions, owls and butterflies! “The penguins are very popular. And they’re already dressed for the wedding!” says Daniel.

And if you’re looking for some excitement and something really unique, why not get married in the shark tank? Yes, that’s an option too. The possibilities for a unique, exclusive wedding weekend are endless at Atlantis Banquets & Events – not just for the fall, but all year round.

 Is a wedding content creator essential for your big day?

It goes without saying that your photographer and videographer are incredibly important parts of your wedding day team. Think about it – once the vows have been said, the cake has been cut, and the dance floor has cooled, the one tangible reminder you’ll have of the big day are your pictures and video.

But when it comes to social media, do your professional shots and footage really make the best content? Sure, you’ll get some teasers in the days after “I do.” But if you want to share any part of your wedding in real time – on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or whatever other platform has been created by the time you read this – you’ll need to task someone with snapping pictures, recording video, and uploading everything to your accounts.

Before you get any ideas, trust us – you’ll be way too busy to do any of this yourself. And besides that, your focus should be on enjoying every moment of your wedding – not on creating content for your followers. So that leaves your bridal party, guests, or family members available for the job. But do you really want them to be worrying about playing “amateur influencer” while also getting hair and makeup done, picking up your bouquets, and being present with you during a beautiful moment in your life? 

If you’re a self-proclaimed queen of social media, you may want to consider hiring a wedding content creator.

• MORE: The Pros and Cons of Smartphones at Your Ceremony

What is a wedding content creator?

A wedding content creator is a member of your vendor team that’s responsible for capturing images, video, and other content solely for social media. Unlike your photographer and videographer, they don’t use DSLR cameras or other high-end photography equipment. But that doesn’t mean your footage will look unprofessional! A wedding content creator will deliver superior-quality footage, properly shot and formatted for use on various social media platforms. They’ll stay with you from the first swipe of mascara through the last dance of the night (and into the after party!) catching intimate moments, unexpected surprises, and the little details that make your day special. They can even provide commentary on the action through fun on-screen text or captions!

Many wedding content creators are able to share their work to your profiles live and in real time, while others will deliver your content the morning after the big day. In either case, you’ll have amazing photos and videos to share with any friends, family, and fans that follow your accounts.

• MORE: Why She Shouldn’t Be a Bridesmaid

What are the benefits to hiring a wedding content creator?

The biggest benefit to hiring a wedding content creator is the additional coverage you’ll get. Your photographer and videographer are trained professionals and know where to be to shoot all the important moments, but at the end of the day, they’re human and can’t be in multiple places at once. A wedding content creator has a similar skill set to your photographer and videographer and can fill in the gaps that they may miss.

A wedding content creator will also focus on generating images and video that are specifically designed for social media. If you’ve ever tried to share a video shot in landscape to your Instagram story, you know that the results can look a little off. Wedding content creators know the correct ratios to film and photograph in, so that all the content your share will look like it’s made for social media (because it is!) 

Another huge benefit? Wedding content creators take the stress off of your bridal party. Your maid-of-honor or best man won’t need to be preoccupied with taking pictures or videos, and can instead be there for you and your fiancé.

What are the drawbacks to hiring a wedding content creator?

Really, the only drawback to hiring a wedding content creator is the additional cost. We don’t have to tell you that weddings can get very expensive, very quickly. And when you’ve already hired a photographer and videographer (and when most of your guests have smartphones themselves), paying someone to take more pictures and videos may seem a little overkill.  

Should you hire a wedding content creator?

If you’re considering hiring a wedding content creator, here are a few things to consider:

Budget

If you scored a killer deal on your dress, or booked your date during an off-peak season, you may have some extra funds in your wedding piggy bank. If that’s the case, hiring a content creator could be a really fun and meaningful add-on to your vendor team. Think of it this way – would you rather spend the money on something your guests may not notice, or on more pictures and videos you’ll be able to enjoy forever?

That being said – if you’ve maxed out your budget, you may want to think twice before adding another expense. Is it worth going into the red for social media content? And even if you do have a few more bucks to spare  – are reels and TikTok videos worth the money? There’s no right or wrong answer!

Bridal party and other guests

Do you have a maid-of-honor that documents pretty much every moment of her life? Or a guest that produces hilarious TikToks on a daily basis? If you do, you may have a wedding content creator already. Make sure these folks have your wedding hashtag and tell them to go to town!

If none of your bridal party or guests are particularly active on social media, then a hired wedding content creator can get the job done.

Friends and family that aren’t in attendance

You know how BOLI feels about the phrase “those that really want to be there, will be there.” Sorry, but the real world is way more complicated than that.

There’s a very big chance that some of your loved ones won’t be able to attend your wedding, no matter how much they want to be there. For those that can’t be there, real-time content uploaded by a wedding content creator gives them an opportunity to experience the joys of your wedding – even though they aren’t physically present. Even if your photos and videos aren’t uploaded until the next day, 24 hours is a lot shorter of a time to wait than the 6-8 weeks it will take to get your professional pictures and video. 

However, if those that aren’t in attendance don’t have social media accounts (or don’t know how to use them), they’ll miss any of the content that gets posted. 

Your own preferences

If you live your life on social media, sharing almost every moment with your audience, then hiring a wedding content creator makes perfect sense! What better way to showcase all the incredible parts of your day than in a medium you know and love?

If you’re pretty ambivalent about social media (or you hate it altogether), then your money would be better spent on another aspect of your wedding.