Once the gown is chosen, a bride has many more decisions about her look for the Big Day – her hairstyle is at the top of the list! Here are a few trends for 2017:

An interesting trend is toward a less formal look, achieved with layers, length and varieties of cascading greenery.

All heads turn to look as she begins her walk down the aisle … the classic focal point of a wedding is the bride’s gown. Bridal professionals report that current designs mix eye-catching elements that add a trendy flair to a timeless look.

If you ask the party-planning experts, they’ll say that a common thread amongst reception fare trends is the opportunity to personalize the experience for both the newlyweds and their guests. Cake alternatives include gourmet cheeses, doughnuts and French macaroons, while main courses are trending toward family-style service, finger foods, and brunch! Here are a few others to consider:

An unspoken and long-standing tradition, the wedding gift can be a trick to tackle! Consider these protocol guidelines when giving and receiving.

Reception guest wants to be bored waiting around at the venue for you and the bridal party to arrive! If there is a substantial period between your ceremony and celebration, consider ways to occupy guests during that down time.

As is true for almost anything, what makes something unique lies in the details. The deeply personal touches you put on your wedding celebration will be what you cherish … and what you hope your guests will never forget.

Edel Phaneuf, 64, knows how to expertly take a wedding dress apart; remove or add sleeves; lengthen or shorten the hem; cut a new neckline, sew it, add beads, sequins or lace; re-size it, and then hand it to an awaiting bride to wear on her wedding day.

From the serene and picturesque Genesee County parks, to elegant, one-of-a-kind spaces like the Flint Institute of Arts, to Downtown’s historic Durant Ballroom, you need not travel far to make any unique wedding dream a reality.