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A wedding can be the most wonderful and joyous occasions, but it can also be an overwhelming time. Where to book the venue, what type of flowers make the best arrangements, should you get a photographer or videographer-or both? There are so many questions to be answered and it’s hard to know where to start. Well, we did the leg work for you, putting together a reputable and top-notch list of wedding planners, venues, caterers, florists, photographers, apparel, and more. Now you can relax and begin to enjoy the fun of planning your special day.

Venues and Caterers

Of course, one of the first steps in planning a wedding is booking a venue and caterer. Many times, vendors can fill up over a year in advance, so it’s wise to look into this step soon after the engagement. Our extensive list includes traditional, modern and unique options.

Tim and Paul, partners at Timothy S. Hopkins Catering, have more than 25 years of experience each in the culinary world. Not only will they prepare food to perfection, but they orchestrate weddings for up to 250 guests from start to finish. Their seasoned team of sous-chefs, servers, and bartenders attend to each event with a consistently refined touch. They hand select fresh, seasonal ingredients grown locally. They customize and cater each event to reflect the personal taste and budget of the client. Trends include more tapas and heavy hors d’oeuvres wedding receptions; they tend to be more fun and relaxed, allowing guests to mingle freely. They have also done a number of outdoor, rehearsal dinners, which have a theme, such as a Mexican fiesta, clam bake or southern comfort dinner. For more information call (978) 768-9990 or go to www.tshcatering.com.

“We are a chef-owned and operated company and we take great pride in the quality of our food.  People often tell us that their guests still talk about the food at their wedding, and that can be years after the party.  That is the ultimate compliment to us.” – Tim Hopkins, Owner and Executive Chef

Cruiseport Gloucester, located on beautiful Cape Ann, is the perfect harbor-front destination wedding. The formal grand ballroom is accented with crystal chandeliers, oversized windows, vaulted ceilings and a classic lighthouse foyer. Guests can enjoy the view of the historic port of Gloucester from the expansive deck for cocktail hour. The 6,000-square-foot grand ballroom has no inside columns, a neutral color palette and beautiful, polished wood floors-the look and feel of pure elegance. Cruiseport boasts comfortable, roomy seating for up to 320 wedding guests, valet parking, exquisite food, and top-shelf beverages. For more information call (978) 282-9700 or go to www.cruiseportgloucester.com.

“From your first tour to loading your gifts to take home at the end of the reception, our experienced professionals will be there every step of the way to aid you in the details of preparing for your dream wedding.”  – Sheree Delorenzo, Proprietor

Whether couples are planning an intimate rehearsal dinner in the dining room or a 100-person wedding in the second-floor function room, Finz’s philosophy remains the same: innovative and inspired menus emphasizing seasonal, fresh seafood, outstanding service, and a passionate commitment to creating memorable experiences. They believe in planning made simple with custom-designed menus and wedding packages, professional vendor relations and experienced event planning. Bridal couples can escape from tradition or embrace it-Finz will help create their personal visions. For more information call (978) 744-0000 or go to www.hipfinz.com.

“Our function room largely appeals to those not looking for a traditional wedding venue, but a place where couples can carefully control a budget, while still having a wedding that realizes their vision-from decor to custom menus.” – Susan Babine, Sales and Event Manager

At the Wyndham Boston Andover Hotel, the charm of old-world New England blends perfectly with up-to-the-minute amenities to create an epic good time. Best of all, this is where good old-fashioned customer service is still perfectly in style. This is the ideal place for your wedding since the property has just undergone a multi-million dollar renovation completed in 2009. The property is nestled in the hills of Merrimack Valley of Massachusetts and just 25 miles from Boston, so it’s a convenient and beautiful wedding venue. The staff can host bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, and even post-wedding brunches for up to 450 guests. For more information call (978) 975-3600 or go to www.wyndhamandover.com.

“Our Wedding Specialist, Christine Perry has 25 years of wedding experience to help bridal couples realize their vision so that their dreams come true. From intimate to extravagant, tradition to unexpected, the staff, at the Wyndham Boston Andover Hotel is dedicated to helping you create an unforgettable wedding experience.” – Don Corbosiero, General Manager

For a dream wedding on the water, The Pavilion Oceanfront Event Center offers breathtaking ocean views, experienced staff and signature award-winning cuisine from Seaglass Restaurant. You’ll actually feel the waves breaking gently under your feet at this beautiful and new venue, where the interior decor reflects the seaside beauty surrounding it. Seaglass Restaurant offers extensive banquet menus and wedding packages that feature cocktail receptions with savory hors d’oeuvres and creative entree cuisine for plated or buffet-style dinners – all prepared with fine, fresh ingredients. This oceanfront space is ideal for intimate gatherings, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and post wedding brunches as well as larger weddings and receptions. For more information call (978) 465-2000 x113 or go to www.seaglassoceanside.com.

“The Pavilion Oceanfront Event Center is like no other facility on Boston’s North Shore. It offers superb service, award-winning cuisine and unmatched views of the Atlantic.  Brides and grooms are absolutely amazed when they first visit our venue and can see, hear, and feel the breaking sea–the ocean actually becomes part of the event’s ambiance.” – Patty King, Functions Director

Hamilton Hall, a national historic landmark, is located in historic Salem on picturesque Chestnut Street.  Built in 1805, Hamilton Hall is known for its beautiful weddings.  The Grand Ballroom, with its elegance and charm, is one of the largest ballrooms on the North Shore. The building has been lovingly restored and maintained and features beautifully restored gold mirrors. Sometimes called a “hidden jewel,” Hamilton Hall has been host to royalty, politicians, and other notable guests. Guests for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and rehearsal dinners. Their experienced staff will guide you through the planning process, from beginning to end.  For more information, call (978) 744-0805 or visit www.hamiltonhall.org.

“There are many unique photo opportunities within Hamilton Hall and in our beautiful park. The history, architecture, and simple elegance of Hamilton Hall are a perfect setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The space is very versatile and will accommodate the wedding couple’s vision for their special day.” – Tricia Schott, Executive Director

Teresa’s Italian Eatery specializes in designing events for all occasions to meet the needs of customers with various budgets. Their goal is to provide high-quality food coupled with excellent service and keep a watchful eye on each and every detail. At Teresa’s they take pride and a personal interest in every event. They offer many resources from flowers, ice carvings, photography, and a variety of music options. They always spend the necessary time with their customers and help guide them through every phase to create a perfect result. For more information call (978) 646-1111 or visit www.teresaseatery.com.

“At Teresa’s we make your special day very special.” – Nick Yebba, Owner

Located in the picturesque Bradley Palmer Park, Willowdale Estate offers formal wedding receptions, garden courtyard ceremonies, engagement parties, and rehearsal dinners. Willowdale Estate is a completely restored historic venue providing seamless event planning services and on-site catering. In summer, wedding receptions take place under the handcrafted Three Spire Sperry Tent. From November to April, the intimate and sophisticated events are hosted inside the unique Arts and Crafts style mansion. They specialize in incorporating couple’s ideas to produce inspired events that will wow guests and leave lasting memories. For more information call (978) 887-8211 or go to www.willowdaleestate.com.

“What makes us truly different is that there is no other private historic estate that provides it all: venue, catering and planning. We pride ourselves on our from-scratch food. Everything is prepared and cooked right on site so food is never transported or held in warmers.” – Lenna Shulga, Sales Manager

Wedding receptions have been a tradition at the Hawthorne Hotel since 1925. The hotel echoes a magnificent age of grandeur and elegance. Personal service and attention to detail are hallmarks of the property and will reflect the bride and groom’s style in the classic setting of the Hawthorne. The hotel offers different packages at many price points. Their goal is to make sure everyone can have their dream wedding at the historic Hawthorne Hotel. For more information call (978) 825-4358 or visit www.hawthornehotel.com

“Most of our Hawthorne Hotel wedding packages include a variety of items-specifically to make the experience easier for our brides and grooms. Included are flowers, limo, cake, photo room, suite for the bride and groom, and more.  Not many venues offer that.” – Kristie Poehler, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing

Emerson Inn By The Sea, a Rockport Massachusetts hotel, is a historic grand property on Cape Ann. Referred to by many as a “baby grand,” this lovely Rockport inn is a gem. Thirty-six beautifully appointed rooms have been restored to reflect the quality of yesteryear, but with amenities that discerning travelers seek today, including private baths, spa tubs, private enclosed balconies, televisions, and telephones. Two vacation rental cottages adjacent to the inn offer the ideal surroundings for weddings. People are opting for afternoon weddings, so they can experience the ocean view a place like the Emerson Inn has to offer. For more information call (978) 546-6321 or go to www.emersoninnbythesea.com.

“At the historic Emerson Inn By The Sea, the elegance, the magic and the nostalgia of an ocean-front ceremony and award-winning menu provide the unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime” – James Silva, Sales Manager

Whether the bride and groom’s dreams for their special day are on a grand scale or of a more intimate affair, L’Andana will help create the perfect wedding. The main dining room can be transformed into a sumptuous and elegant Tuscan ballroom, while the private dining room provides for a more intimate reception, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner. From beginning to end, from fine Tuscan cuisine to floral arrangements, L’Andana works with the couple to ensure their ideas and visions are incorporated into every detail of the special day. For more information call (781) 270-0100 or go to www.landanagrill.com.

“Walking into L’Andana is like stepping into a Tuscan farmhouse, from the chic and elegant decor to the wood-fired cuisine. Our event team will assist you from beginning to end to create your dream wedding, allowing you to enjoy your day. ” – Alex Hage, General Manager

Nobody knows their way around the kitchens of Boston like Gourmet Caterers. For more than 35 years, Gourmet has served the people of the greater Boston area from the city’s most exclusive rooms to its most public spaces. Exclusive caterer to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, John Joseph Moakley Federal Courthouse, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Granite Links Golf Club, Gourmet Caterers is a Boston institution, renowned for its talented chefs and gracious staff and for creating unforgettable events with a singular level of expertise. Whether it’s an intimate cocktail reception or a large wedding party, Gourmet Caterers makes each event uniquely its own. For more information call (617) 522-2820 or visit gourmetcaterers.com

“Gourmet Caterers is a family-owned and operated company and has been for over 35 years. What makes us special is our team of employees who work together like a family to make every event we cater uniquely your own.” -  Kim Richard, Director of Sales

Nestled along the majestic Merrimack River in Haverhill, Massachusetts, Renaissance Golf Club is a fantasy land of gently rolling fairways and greens bordered by majestic trees. It’s against this backdrop of beauty that you’ll find a superb new facility. With its stunning architecture and classic interior design, The Clubhouse at Renaissance looks and feels like the historic North Shore mansion of old – graced with today’s modern amenities. And, given its convenient location just 35 minutes north of Boston, Renaissance is certain to be one of the Massachusetts’ most sought-after venues for on-site ceremonies, events and receptions. The clubhouse features a stunning ballroom with towering exposed beam ceilings, elegant chandeliers and seating for 230, as well as an expansive veranda overlooking the private golf course. Couples getting married here can expect a full-time on-site wedding specialist, private tasting for bride and groom with parents, on-site bridal suite and overnight club rooms, on-site indoor and outdoor ceremonies, couples massages, and much more. For more information call (978) 556-0900 or go to  www.renaissancegolfclub.com.

“We feel what really sets Renaissance apart from others, aside from the stunning new clubhouse, is an unwavering dedication to an uncommon level of service and attention to detail.” -  Sean Bleyl, Clubhouse Manager

Glen Magna Farms in Danvers, located 20 minutes north of Boston, is the ideal location for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Set on an estate of eleven acres, the venue offers beautiful gardens and landscape rich with historic character. The award-winning grounds include formal gardens massed with colorful perennials, annuals, shrubbery, and an arboretum. A wisteria-covered pergola transports guests towards the Derby Summer House, a national historic landmark, and into the Rose Garden, which blooms in early summer with hundreds of heirloom roses. Classical statuary, fountains, sweeping lawns, and winding pathways further enhance the exquisitely restored and manicured grounds. For more information call (978) 774-9165 or go to www.glenmagnafarms.org.

“The various features of the estate including the architectural detail in our historic mansion, and most importantly, our magnificent gardens, provide an ideal setting for a truly unique wedding experience.” – Heather S. King, Director of Events

Bonta Restaurant and Bar offers classic Italian cuisine featuring homemade breads, authentic pasta dishes, and scrumptious desserts made from family recipes. It’s the ideal setting for large, seated dinners of up to 120 people or a cocktail reception of up to 300 people. For smaller affairs, the private dining room is available for parties of 10 to 40 for intimate dinners or up to 75 for a cocktail reception. The culinary team re-creates dishes using the finest and freshest ingredients with the goal of providing the most exciting and memorable dining experience in the area. The restaurant offers customized menu options to meet any budget. For more information, call (603) 929-7972 or go to www.Bonta.net.

“Bonta offers modern classic Italian cuisine that will please your senses and imagination. Our commitment is to provide the most memorable dining experience in the area while we entice you with our creative flavors and service.” – Pamela Hodgkins, Special Events and Marketing

Established in 2010, Keon’s at Black Swan Country Club offers a traditional New England setting with the ambiance of a luxurious country club. Nestled on 140 acres is a Victorian-style building that overlooks the rolling greens of a championship golf course. Keon’s offers two elegant ballrooms that accommodate up to 350 guests for wedding receptions as well as an outdoor ceremony site for nuptials. The property features a full-service restaurant and bar, and the food rivals any four-star hotel. The signature dish is the three brothers meal–beef tenderloin, chicken and shrimp all on the same plate with homemade sauces and ample portions. The staff happy to work with brides and grooms to customize a wedding menu combing both traditional foods with a twist and unique dishes. For more information call (978) 352-2900 or go to

www.blackswancountryclub.com

“We specialize in service and excellent food. Brides and grooms will feel at home here and we help them every step of the way.” – Donna Andrews, Director of Sales & Events

The 79-room Rockport Inn and Suites is the largest hotel on Cape Ann and is a great place for wedding guests. Wedding parties can reserve up to 75 rooms held up to six weeks prior to the date of arrival without any deposit; rate protection is guaranteed. The recently renovated property features a brand-new indoor pool and spa, tennis courts, fitness room, and 32-inch flat screen HDTVs.  Guests can enjoy a short walk to beaches and downtown Rockport, where shopping and art galleries can be found. Wedding guests can enjoy nearby activities such as whale watching, deep-sea fishing, state parks, museums, and festivals. For more information call (978) 546-3300 or go to www.rockportinnandsuites.com

“From the warm greeting at the front desk to the homemade waffles for breakfast, we believe that details make the difference.” – Roseanne Aspesi, Front Office Manager

The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Marina, Salem ‘s newest boutique hotel, has contemporary nautical decor. Choose from standard, single suites, or two-room suites. The picturesque Pickering Wharf makes a perfect location for weddings. With updated, modern rooms, a swimming pool, and central location, the hotel is ideally situated for visiting friends and family. Whether you are looking to book group accommodations, hold a breakfast, luncheon or reception, or maybe just an intimate family dinner, the experienced and attentive staff will take care of all of the details and create an unforgettable experience. For more information call (978) 740-8788 or visit www.salemwaterfronthotel.com

“It’s our attention to detail, flawless execution, and perfect location that is unmatched. We offer, everything a Boston wedding has to offer but not with Boston pricing.” – Bill Carroll, General Manager

Cafe Escadrille’s team of expert wedding planners will work with bridal couples to ensure that every detail is executed. The stunning architecture of the property has all the warmth and charm of an elegant country estate-a magnificent stone fireplace in the Grand Parlor, a sweeping staircase, beautiful outdoor gardens, a courtyard with a skylight and a botanical waterfall, and of course, the Grand Ballroom. Menu options include exotic sushi trays, chocolate fountains, an ice cream sundae bar and a creative martini or mojito station. White-glove service; a private bridal suite complete with private bath and shower, makeup room, and lounge area; convenient location; free valet parking; and an in-house pastry chef to design the couple’s dream wedding are just some of the reasons to trust your special day to Cafe Escadrille. For more information, call (781) 273-1916 or visit www.cafeescadrille.com

“Our warm residential ambience, exquisite food, and legendary white-glove service are exceptional, beyond compare” – Mario Hache, Director of Special Events

Wedding ceremonies and receptions at Turner Hill marry old-world elegance to modern needs. The historic mansion and gardens boast many different areas for the special event, including a romantic outdoor chapel with a turn-of-the-century fountain. Wedding receptions can be hosted in the grand ballroom and elegant marble dining room, or held on the grounds in our contemporary tent with teak flooring. From the beautiful setting in Ipswich, to the exacting service and first-class food, Turner Hill is one of the most unique locations on Boston’s North Shore. Surrounded by the critically acclaimed golf club, distinguished old English style meets historic New England charm. This is a classic, beautiful wedding destination. For more information, visit  www.turnerhill.com or call (978) 356.7070.

“Wedding couples have the exclusive use of the mansion since we only book one wedding per day, which makes us unique. We also have a beautiful outdoor chapel, so couples can book both the wedding ceremony and the reception here.” – Carol Travers, Director of Mansion Events

Wedding planners, Apparel, Jewelry, and Spa

From wedding planners to finding the perfect dress, tux, and accessories to match, below is a list of top-rated establishments eager to help each bridal couple make their wedding day the best.

Bliss Spa and Salon draws on more than two decades worth of experience in the industry. Their 2,400 square-foot facility offers private rooms for waxing, facials, massage, Reiki, and sunless tanning treatments. There is a full-service make-up area which can accommodate wedding parties large and small. What’s really nice is that the wedding party is able to receive all services necessary for the big day in one place. There is also an area designated for the bridal party if they choose to have food brought in so they can celebrate amongst themselves. In 2011, Bliss will be offering airbrush bridal makeup. The staff is current with new trends ensuring that the bride’s special day is perfect and will even travel to the bride’s location in order to make things easier for her and her bridal party. It’s one-stop shopping for some real wedding bliss. For more information visit

www.blissspaandsalon.com or call (978) 689-4400.

“Bliss customer service is top-notch and we take pride in making sure each and every customer is satisfied with their treatments.” – Belinda Gosselin, Owner

Bridesmaids Galleria offers bridesmaid fashion from the top designers in the bridal industry. Looks are modern or classic; fabric choices include silk, satin, luminescent taffeta, and elegant chiffon. Stylish designs come in all lengths and styles from retro, vintage- inspired, or timeless classics. Choose strapless, halters, tea-length, and more. There are over 60 colors to choose from that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Alterations are done on site. Fashionable dyed-to-match footwear, beautifully-designed crystal jewelry, and other accessories are also available to complete the perfect look. For more information call (781) 598-5003 or go to www.bridesmaidsgalleria.com.

“We carry the best dresses for your best friends. We offer quality fabric, personalized service, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere that keeps the customers coming back for over 30 years.” – Gayle, Owner

Having a wedding planner can ensure that the big day is hassle-free and wonderful. Magenta event planners take care of every aspect from the biggest ideas to the smallest details, offering honest advice and appropriate direction along the way. They have an extensive list of vendors-flowers, caterers, entertainment, and rentals -and can recommend the right ones for any budget. They will review contracts to make sure couples are getting what they think they should be getting, take care of the not-so-glamorous elements of the event such as restrooms and parking, and make sure things run on time so the bride and groom can relax and not worry. For more information call (617) 820-9258 or go to

www.eventsbymagenta.com.

“We only plan a few weddings each year to make sure the bride and groom receive personalized attention. We work hard to come up with creative solutions, especially for budget-conscious clients and smaller, more intimate affairs.” – Jules Buckley, Owner

Starting out as a wedding-planning resource and invitation specialist in 1976, Over the Rainbow boutique incorporated consignment of wedding gowns, mother’s dresses, and attendants’ gowns in 1991. In the present economy, this has been a wonderful way for brides-and the wedding party-to get a gorgeous gown for half price or less. Over the Rainbow offers an extensive selection of both new and gently used dresses to fit all budgets. What’s nice is that the boutique specialize in wedding-specific consignment apparel, so there are plenty of styles to appeal to every taste. The staff also creates custom-designed wedding invitations.  For more information call (978) 927- 6070 or visit www.overtherainbows.com

“Our wedding niche makes us a standout in the consignment business. The focus on wedding apparel allows us to maintain an inventory of over 150 gowns.  Buying a gently used gown offers many benefits. You can possibly find a dress you can wear with minimal alterations – even petite or plus sizes.” – Jacqueline Martin, Owner

In light of the economic challenges so many of us are facing today, a group of small business owners from the North Shore have come together to give back to their community.  Their first project was to present one deserving couple with a free wedding. The wedding was awarded to an engaged couple from the North Shore who had endured challenges including both financial and health-related.  The services in the Wedding Giveaway: event planning, invitations, bridal gown, tuxedos, wedding venue, food/alcohol, catering, photographer, florist, and more. “Reason to Give” plans to continue to give back to the North Shore community by sponsoring at least one project per year. For more information go to www.reason2give.org.

“Reason to Give is a very unique organization. Everyone who helped sponsor this first project gave generously and from the heart.  It was amazing to see a number of businesses come together so effortlessly to make a dream come true. We hope to continue our mission by working with different people and groups in the community who are in need of a little bit of assistance. Together, we can do much more than we could ever do on our own.” – Heidi Nicholson

Night & Day has developed a sterling reputation in the north of Boston as a specialized resource for all things related to bridal foundations and bridal lingerie. The experienced staff delights in helping brides, bridesmaids, and mother of the brides select shapewear and foundations so they can look their best on the wedding day – and night. The brides can also enjoy Night & Days carefully edited selection of packable day wear, and lingerie for their honeymoon needs. Night & Day enjoys close referral relationships with many of the local bridal and special-occasion boutiques. The store allows brides to purchase and take along to their gown fitting several options for foundations (very important for the right fit of the gown), and then return the ones that weren’t optimal.  The brides love this flexible option because it reduces their stress. For more information, call (978) 475-0343 or visit www.nightanddaylingerie.com.

“We are a specialized resource for all things related to bridal foundations and bridal lingerie.  We also offer special ordering of certain foundations and lingerie, including plus-size options.” – Merit Tukiainen, Owner

Mens fashion is just as important in weddings, and it’s easy to find the perfect style and cut at Giblees. Men have the option of renting or buying a variety of fashionable tuxedos and suits that go beyond the basic black, including tan, light brown, navy blue, and more. Whether it’s a destination wedding, a large formal affair, or something small and intimate, Giblees will help each customer find the right material, color and cut to suit the occasion. Offering a large selection of designers and a wide variety of accessories, Giblees can dress everyone from ring bearers, to groomsman, to father-of-the bride to the groom. Unlike most other tuxedo companies Giblees carries all of their tuxedos in store, so last-minute changes can be made.  Tailoring is always available on premise. For more information go to www.gibleestux.com or call (978) 777-3230.

“Giblees is a very unique store for weddings because we cater to you and your needs and make it an experience that other store cannot do. We have a very large store with a pool table, a coffee bar, and seven flat-screen televisions to enhance your experience with us. Giblees will always do extra steps to make sure you are completely happy.” – Bryan Simmons, Tuxedo Manager

Bella Sera Bridal offers a fresh perspective on the gown-buying experience. The salon has been designed to meet the needs of brides and bridesmaids of all sizes and shapes. The shop works closely with the bridal party to find the right style and fit; it tailors the experience to customers with a range of taste and fashion sensibilities. Whether the bridal party is looking for a traditional or modern approach, the vast selection of gowns will fit the bill.  From selecting the dresses to scheduling alterations and making sure everything fits perfectly, the salon caters to the bridal party from start to finish. For more information, visit www.bellaserabridal.com or call (978) 774-4077.

“As owners of Bella Sera, we put our heart and soul into our business, because we know how treasured a moment it is to find ‘the gown.’  There are very few celebrations in life, and we want to make sure our customers experience impeccable and heartfelt service.” – Lisa Almeida, Owner

The Jewelry Vault, located in the heart of North Reading, is a family-owned business that prides itself on personalized service, creative and custom designs, and quality merchandise. With over 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, The Jewelery Vault specializes in the design and manufacturing of unique wedding rings and bands. The staff can create anything starting from a picture, drawing, or thought in a customer’s mind. Recent trends include more custom choices rather than “off-the-rack” pieces. The trend continues to be micro-pave designs which involve setting many smaller stones around a center stone.  White metals are still popular with round- and princess- cut stones being the center stones of choice. For more information visit www.thejewelryvault.com or call (978) 357-8470.

“Our goal is to find new and different jewelry lines you will not see at every other jewelry store.  We have worked hard to create a wide variety of jewelry collections to fit every taste and budget.” – Lisa Ferraguto, Owner

Lorraine Roy Designer Collections and Bridal Boutique is a special-occasion dress salon specializing in bridal, mother-of-the-occasion, guest of the wedding, destination weddings, and honeymoon apparel. The staff offers personalized attention no matter the budget of the customer. The store understands that a wedding is a very special day not only for the bride, but for her mom and her future mother-in-law. Everyone plays an important role and should feel absolutely beautiful on that day. With that in mind, they address every detail and work closely with each member of the wedding party. Recent trends include the pendulum swinging back to a more elegant, romantic wedding style. For more information go to

www.lorraineroy.com or call 978-774-0825.

“We feel a personal connection and accountability to every bride and client who shops with us. Our stylists will work to enhance each woman’s best features so they walk out feeling confident about their dress purchase. Our long-standing reputation for excellence in the industry brings us clients from all over the North Shore and beyond.” – Jeanne Hennessey, Owner

Florists, Photographers, Accessories, and Cosmetics

Picking the right flowers, selecting a photographer, creating the invitations, renting a tent, or finding a dentist to brighten your wedding-day smile-all the details are important.

When you think of style, texture, and color, Hamilton Gardens comes to mind. The staff really gets to know their brides over several meetings, making sure she is getting everything she wants for her day.  Hamilton Gardens designers create floral arrangements that are current and contemporary with a strong wedding background.  The staff is knowledgeable and diverse with a creative eye for the unusual.  No matter what the bride’s style-exotic, traditional, a touch of something unusual or more classic-Hamilton Gardens can make the perfect bouquet. For more information, call (978) 468-0148 or go to www.hamiltongardensonline.com

“We have a way of discovering each brides individual sense of style and the ability to create magic from just an idea.” – Stacy DeScenza, Owner

The Event Company is a full-service party equipment rental business.  They specialize in high-end outdoor weddings, but can accommodate many different types of venues. Being small keeps the quality high and costs low. The company has many different styles of tents, tables, chairs, and lighting. The staff achieves customization through the use of several lighting options in an endless array of colors and patterns. Through the use of lighting and fabric liners or swags, The Event Company can transform any space.  Advances in LED lighting and additional paper lantern colors have increased options. A creative layout with a variety of table shapes and sizes helps add appeal to a space.  Lounge areas with comfortable furniture are often added.  For more information call (978) 283-4884 or contact www.rentent.com

“Our company is best known for our flexibility and willingness to try new things to make a couple’s vision for the perfect wedding come true.” – Taylor Hedges, President

On your special day, you want your smile to be big and bright-so why not choose teeth whitening? At Danvers Family Dentistry, you will never feel like a number or even just a patient – they work hard to make you feel like part of the family. The staff focuses on supportive personal attention, individualized treatments, and unhurried appointments. While your smile is getting healthy, you can listen to soothing music or you can block out sounds with noise canceling headphones while you watch TV.  They even offer blankets and neck pillows for your comfort and a heated towel to freshen up after your appointment. Most insurance plans are accepted. For more information call (978) 739-4100 or go to

www.DanversFamilyDentistry.com

The Write Expression specializes in personalized service for a variety of wedding needs including: save-the-dates, invitations, place cards, menu cards, personalized napkins, programs, gift baskets, and more. Located in downtown Topsfield, the store works closely with bridal couples to incorporate their vision and personality in each product. Whether the style of the couple leans more toward traditional or modern, or perhaps a combination of the two, The Write Expression works within all budgets to find the right color, font, and design to make each wedding unique and memorable. For more information go to www.thewrite-expression.com or call (978) 887-0330.

“The Write Expression is a long-established shop with many years of experience in wedding invitations. We pride ourselves on the fact that we do all we can to ensure that our brides are completely satisfied, a service that is unavailable online or in large retail stores.” – Linda Villiotte and Michelle Walker, Co-owners

Cook Productions offers boutique-level service and award-winning creativity and artistry to couples seeking the best in wedding photography and videography. Its Andover studio is centrally located in order to serve weddings throughout New England and beyond. They offer a mix of traditional and photojournalistic styles, blended to form their unique and award-winning style.  If a couple is interested in photography and videography for their wedding, there are many benefits to hiring both mediums in one location as Cook provides both imagery services under one roof.  The team will work together to provide great scenes all day long, and there are financial benefits as well. For more information go to

www.cookproductions.com or call 978-409-1373.

“Our uniqueness lies with the ability to provide top-level photography and videography under one roof.” – Tim Cook, Owner

What makes Foto Factory a great fit for weddings is the fact that this husband-and-wife team work together to shoot each and every wedding as a duo. They work closely with the bridal couple to make sure their personalities come through, especially in the candid shots. They make their poses fun and capture the small details-especially important to the bride and groom-but they also get the formal group shots that the older generation likes. Their photography is a mix of black & white, sepia, color, and color splash. Some photographers give couples raw files, but every photo is digitally enhanced by Michel and Kellie vanRavestyn personally. To see their latest work, go to their blog www.thefotofactory.blogspot.com or find them on Facebook.  For unique photography on that special day, call(978) 374-3774 or go to www.thefotofactorystudio.net

“We meet with every couple personally and spend a lot of time with them. This allows us to capture their personality in the candid shots. We also handle everything from start to finish-shooting the photography, creating the wedding albums and making a canvas. We do it all.” – Michel and Kellie vanRavestyn, Owners