Posts by Maria Ramirez4

Jason Rivera2 said:Hey girls, I need a quick favor. I’m looking for a professional photographer for a bachelorette party happening in Chicago, and I was wondering if anyone has a solid recommendation? Ideally someone who does great work but won't break the bank. Any leads? Thanks!

If you're looking for a photographer, shoot me a DM for details. 😉

restlesshawk48 said:Man, if you want the good stuff, just grab some treats from a small town in the Midwest—definitely the best you'll ever have.🙂

They’re supposed to be the best, but they just aren't. 🙄 Look, you can't argue with taste. It's subjective. Period.

Henry Harris5 said:Sage... it's actually way more affordable than what you'd find at Grandma's Creek...

I'm with you—best cookies I've ever had, hands down. 😁 I gave them a taste. Honestly? I’d go back for seconds, thirds, and fourths if I could. They're that good.

stormybear37 said:Well, we actually went to see them in person. We set up a tasting session and they gave us a bunch of pastries—completely FREE—just to sample. And honestly? They were absolutely delicious. They had that wonderful, genuine homemade feel where you can actually taste the unique ingredients in every single piece; they didn't all just blend together into one sugary mass. Plus, the woman running things was so easy to work with regarding the arrangements. I'm just so relieved and happy that we got everything sorted out so smoothly!!

Every single bakery we checked out for the wedding dessert order offered us a free pound of sweets.

restlesshawk48 said:Do you even know how much that Sage costs right now?

I'm not sure if they still are. $20Per pound.

gentlehound9 said:I've seen those makeup recommendations floating around, but they're all based in Indianapolis. Since we’re getting married up in Portland, it feels like a massive hassle to trek all the way down to Indy just for a makeup appointment.
Does anyone know a solid pro in the Portland or Savannah area?

Most of the makeup artists I mentioned in my post just head home—wherever they live—to prep the bride and, obviously, any other girls who want in, like the maid of honor, the mom, or the bridesmaids.

Since people keep asking the same damn questions without bothering to scroll back through previous pages, I’ve put all my recommendations in one spot. Hopefully, this saves everyone some time. 😉 You can find all of them on Facebook. 🙂

makeup
Ana Coric Atelier
Antonia make makeup corner.
Helena Valentina rosa needs some makeup.
Valentina Roso
Jelena Tufekovic makeup.
Chic Makeup Studio is just okay. Honestly, they’ve started using the same tired look for everyone. 🙄 I wouldn't even want them to pay me if they tried, especially when dealing with Victoria Petrovic. 🤣

PHOTO:
Maja Peric and Jelena Rasic—they always deliver.
Process Photo Studio – honestly, their ideas and shots are just too good.
BeckStudio Agency—top-tier photos and video. Definitely recommend working with them.
Mara Photo
Zooming in on photos and videos.
Igor Milicic — killer photos and great ideas.
Marin Franov - different, off the rails.
Andrej Car Flowers

Flowers:
Đakov Flower Shop
Đakov Flower Shop
Antonio Flower Shop.
Maja Osijek Flower Shop.
Maja Osijek Flower Shop
Maja Osijek Flower Shop
Mozaik Flower Shop.
Z Flower Shop
Strelicija Quote : Lautitia

Alexander Rodriguez2 said:Has anyone here done their makeup at the Patria hotel in El Paso?? Any experiences or thoughts??

I know a girl who used them for her wedding hair and makeup. She looked incredible—nothing over-the-top, just a clean look that actually photographed well. 🙂

Jason Miller4 said:I have a quick question—and please, tell me if I’m just overthinking this one, because I’d rather be certain than accidentally cause a scene. Is there some sort of unwritten rule where the younger crowd is expected to circulate through the reception, moving from table to table to personally greet the wedding party? I’ve noticed it happening more than once. It feels as though some guests might actually take offense if you don't make that formal effort to acknowledge them directly. I really wouldn't want anyone feeling slighted just because I wasn't aware of the etiquette.

We went to visit our guests after dinner just because we felt like it. We wanted to say our goodbyes properly and give them some actual attention, and they really appreciated the gesture. We had 150 people over, so honestly, it wasn't even a hassle. 😉

I know a girl who makes custom wedding thank-you notes. I’ve always been a fan because they actually feel unique instead of just being more mass-produced junk.
Here's the link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...0508387&type=3

Laura Myers46 said:Has anyone actually been done up by Anne Coric? I heard she's pretty talented.

Anne did my makeup once. Honestly, nothing but praise from here. It wasn't heavy or cakey—my skin could actually breathe. She picked out eyeshadow and blush that actually matched my tone instead of just slapping on whatever. Plus, Anne is a genuinely nice person to hang out with. 👍

John Davis43 said:Hey, does anyone have experience with the Sphere? I’m trying to figure out how many people actually go there and what the per-person cost looks like. I can't find a decent website for them anywhere, and I don't want to waste my time making the trip if it isn't worth it.
Also, regarding Zoe's place—I know the lodging and photos are right by the venue. Apparently, it's a newer setup with round tables that fits about 200 people, though you could squeeze in up to 270 if you use standard tables. Has anyone actually been? If so, send over some details on pricing, the dance floor situation, the food, and whatever else matters.

Go back 3 or 4 pages. You'll find my take on how those sales ball bearings actually play out.
As for Zoe, they’ve got their own Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/PrenocisteZoe

rustyjackal26 said:Here is a quick little update from my side...🙂
I finally sorted out the band situation... We managed to move the wedding date up to this weekend...😁 Luckily, the venue was wide open, so now we have both the hall and the band we actually wanted...😍 My only remaining headache is finding a photographer. I’m leaning toward Mark from Indianapolis...😉 Has anyone here worked with him before? From what I've seen, his portfolio is fantastic and his rates are pretty reasonable...🙂

Nice shots. A friend mentioned she was really happy with how he handled their wedding photos. My only question is whether he works solo or with a crew. If he’s flying solo, shooting a crowd of 200 or 300 people might be a bit much for one guy to manage. 🤷

Carol Ross68 said:Hi there! I was wondering if anyone could share their experiences using Crystal salt?

Great vibe, friendly staff, delicious food, clean restrooms, and plenty of parking. My only gripe is the floor space. They claim the hall fits 500 people, but I’ve been to weddings with just over 400 where it felt like a packed subway car—especially once everyone hit the dance floor.

rustyjackal26 said:Listen, ladies... I honestly don't know what else to say at this point, but I am officially hitting a wall with this whole band search...🙂 First, I reached out to The Beach Boys, but apparently, they aren't booking any gigs for 2014. Then, I got in touch with Mailchimp, only to have someone tell me today that one of their associates already booked a wedding for our exact date in the meantime—and we had actually spoken about setting up a meeting just a week and a half ago.🙂
Does anyone have any advice? I’m looking for a local band that features both male and female vocals. I don't want anything that sounds like cheesy polka; I need them to play a mix of international hits and domestic classics, maybe even some folk or coastal styles... 🙂 and they need to be within my $3333 budget... please, I'm begging for some help here... 🙂

My vote goes to Elvis Presley. Guaranteed good times. 🙂

quietcobra52 said:Anyone know where I can snag those tiny little shot bottles—you know, the ones for bourbon? And what’s the damage like? Need about 170 of them for some thank-you gifts... any leads?

Best Buy carries all sorts of small bottles and caps.

Patrick Morris6 said:Hey there! Does anyone have any photo or video recs? Also, what kind of pricing are we looking at lately?
Anyone have experience with the meal plans—like the ones at Union Station?
Is Band 100%? 😁
Thanks!

It wouldn't hurt to scroll back through a few pages once in a while. It’ll save us all from hearing the same thing over and over again. 😉

Thomas Brooks2 said:My makeup artist, Mary, actually suggested I go with Quattro, but I ended up listening to my partner and choosing Vigor instead, so now I am just sitting here wondering if I might end up regretting that decision.🤷

I've heard mixed things about Vigor. One wedding guest said they played this weird mashup of country, rock, and folk—completely missed the vibe, leaving her totally bummed. On the flip side, someone else mentioned the musicians are solid and the lead singer, Roth, is a blast to watch.

Angela Chavez3 said:For photo and video, maybe try Pi&G studios in Indianapolis👍

I've heard great things about P&G studio when it comes to their photography, but word is their wedding videos are a complete disaster. Definitely do your homework before booking them.

Henry Harris5 said:Does anyone know a good seamstress who makes affordable dresses? I’m looking for something budget-friendly for the ring bearers...

I saw Gordon posting about sewing on Facebook, so maybe check there. Honestly, though, I’m also hunting for a good tailor. If anyone has a lead, let me know. 😍

Kevin Smith7 said:Dear forum members,

1. Could anyone recommend a high-quality photographer and videographer who offers a more creative touch? I can't go with Studio 68 because they're already booked up.

2. Also, does anyone have suggestions for creative wedding decor? Which florists would you recommend?

I'm looking for options within El Paso County!

Thanks!

1. I don't know that specific county well, but people pretty much travel wherever they need to. I've heard good things about Mara Photography in BM, supposedly Elijah is a solid photographer from DJ, there's Martin Photo in Cherry Valley, Sun Photography in VU, and Chris Pribisalic in Indianapolis.
2. Palma from DJ, Wedding Decor from VU, Violet from OS, Lana from Plants, Iris from Ivankov, Maya from OS, OS Castle, and Anthony from OS.

George Wells6 said:Can you give me a ballpark figure? I'm dealing with a massive venue that holds about 1,000 people, and I'll have roughly 55 tables to cover.

What kind of per-table cost plus the bridal party arrangements should I be budgeting for?

I'm looking for something tasteful—not over-the-top, but certainly not sparse either.

Look, like I said before, it all comes down to negotiation. It depends on your total budget for flowers, the specific blooms you want, and the overall style. For example, you tell the florist you've got $1667 set aside for everything, and ask them to suggest arrangements for the tables, the head table, the car, the house, the church... Or you get specific: "I want a head table arrangement worth $67, and guest table pieces at $17 each," etc.
I'm just throwing out numbers to give you an idea.

Patrick Morris6 said:Maria Ramirez4, thanks! I'm starting my hunt in earnest now. I might check out the area around Indianapolis too, so I'll probably turn up something 😉
Also, if anyone has any leads on a hostel or a guest room that won't totally break the bank...☕

Don't mention it.😉
As for lodging, here's a little help: https://www.google.com/search?source....1.MnYb3I04Mf4

George Wells6 said:What kind of budget am I looking at for a florist?

Roughly?

The bridal bouquet?
The wedding table centerpiece?
Full venue decor?
Individual table settings?

We’re looking at about 55 tables, with 10 guests seated at each one.

We settled things right at the start by deciding on a hard budget for the flowers. That was our baseline. I laid out exactly what I wanted, the florist sketched some ideas based on my vision, and we were done. Honestly, you’re better off doing it that way. Set your boundaries early and just ask them what they can actually deliver for the amount of cash you've got. 😉

Maria Ramirez4 said:Helen's makeup, Maria Simosic ex Zmaic (I know because they're both on my Facebook).

The Gaul, those small boutique spots like Silver, Ariston, Waldinger, Danube, and Millennium, the Ball over on El Paso Street right across from the brewery, and Prehrana on Vinkovci—they serve killer food. If I think of anything else, I'll let you know. 😉

Lumier is also a good bet for smaller wedding parties.

Patrick Morris6 said:Thanks so much! I've heard about that Ball place, but I haven't seen any photos or really know what the vibe or food is like... I might ask my sister-in-law to check it out for me since traveling is kind of a hassle right now.🙂

Don't mention it. I dug up some photos online, and I actually have a few from people I know, too. I'll shoot those over to you in a private message. 😉




P.S. When I hit those weddings there twice, the food was solid, the restrooms were decent, and they had a huge parking lot out back. Plus, they actually have AC.

loneridge93 said:I really like how Helen does makeup, and Mary is great too 🙂 They're both super nice and easy to work with.

Helen's makeup, Maria Simosic ex Zmaic (I know because they're both on my Facebook).

Patrick Morris6 said:Hey everyone!
So I'm hanging out on 🙂 again. Basically, I'm originally from Oklahoma City, but I actually live and work in Seattle... so, I could probably host a wedding in either spot. The tricky part is the guest list size—I'm looking for a venue for about 80 people. That feels a bit small for my Midwest roots, but maybe a little big for Seattle. Does anyone have any ideas for a venue near Oklahoma City? Maybe some catering or decor tips too? Ideally something that isn't just a standard restaurant... Ladies, help me out! 🙂

The Gaul, those small boutique spots like Silver, Ariston, Waldinger, Danube, and Millennium, the Ball over on El Paso Street right across from the brewery, and Prehrana on Vinkovci—they serve killer food. If I think of anything else, I'll let you know. 😉

loneridge93 said:Has anyone actually dealt with those free invitations they send out from Nashville?

My godmother picked some up—they’re decent. Nothing groundbreaking or exclusive, but the cardstock has a nice, high-quality sheen to it. They let you pick whichever ones you want; I think you can grab up to 100.

dustytinker58 said:I heard a little while back that they have up to 50% off on suits and other apparel in Indianapolis, out in the Midwest, so there you go... I've never actually been there myself, so I can't speak to the selection or the quality, but I've heard great things since it's an American-made brand.🙂

My guy only picked up some pants there for an event, and honestly, the quality was solid. They had plenty of options, too. But their suits? Pretty old-school. They aren’t really cut for skinny guys—no slim fits at all—so we couldn't find anything that worked. We ended up grabbing what we needed at Galileo instead, and we're damn happy with them. 😍

silentpanther83 said:Has anyone checked out the engagement rings over in Indianapolis lately? I'm wondering where the best deals are hiding...

There's a jewelry shop right across from Peter Pan, near Pleroo—it’s tucked away in that little walkway (kill me now, I can't recall the name). Honestly, if you can make it over to VK, go there instead; the prices are much better. As for the shop inside IKEA, I've only heard bad things. A few people mentioned their rings started peeling, revealing they weren't even gold underneath, just cheap metal plated to look the part. It might last a lifetime for some, but I wouldn't risk my money on stuff like that. 🙄

I don't know what you're getting at. Give me something to work with. Maria Ramirez4 says:
I'm curious too.

Legica tells me they snapped some photos of an acquaintance of hers and they're happy with how those turned out, but the video was a total bust. That’s all I’ve heard regarding Pim-studio.

Kevin Martin8 said:Hey, can someone let me know if there are any shops in Indianapolis that carry cookie decorations? Like, I need this ASAP...

Vigus over on Republic Avenue, just a few feet past those rusted-out poles.
There’s a little wedding trinket shop over in VK that’s way cheaper than Vigus, but I can't recall the name. 😢

ruggedscout44 said:Hey, ladies! New here, so I’ve got a few questions (sorry if I missed anything earlier): has anyone actually eaten at Kopika? I’m already freaking out because I heard some bad reviews and now I'm starting to panic...

Three years ago, when we were asking around about this, some woman told us it was mine. $73 Personally, I don't know. $50 So, they charge a flat rate for the buffet, but then they start ringing up drinks at the bar like it’s a standard dive bar setup. To make matters worse, they have one of their servers stuck behind the counter all night just logging every single drink ordered. Their "brilliant" plan is for us to assign someone to do the exact same thing so we can cross-reference the lists the next day and settle the tab. Does that sound completely ridiculous to anyone else, or is it just me? 😂
The acoustics are great thanks to the hardwood floors, but those chandeliers are a disaster. They look like they’re one vibration away from dropping straight onto your head. 🙄
And yeah, they won't let you bring a single thing of your own.

velvetbadger172 said:Has anyone here hosted a wedding at Caracas, or maybe attended one there? I'm curious what you all think. What’s the capacity like, and how are the prices? Also, are restaurants generally more budget-friendly than dedicated wedding venues?
Thanks

Karaka has gone downhill fast since they brought in a new chef. It used to be our go-to spot, but after being served a raw burger that tasted off and some bizarrely cooked potatoes, we’re done. The location isn't great, but at least the interior is cozy.
Take Iktus, for example. They usually cap weddings at around 60 or 70 people. Their standard lunch package $12 runs all week plus Saturdays, and then there's Sunday $13 with dessert, just minus the booze. I doubt they're asking for much more than that for a wedding.
You might want to check with Đermo over on the outskirts; they handle all sorts of parties—baptisms, graduations, you name it.
The Fite Inn down in South 2 hosts groups up to 60. For me, including drinks, it was $33 per head. The place is renovated, modern, and actually comfortable.

Melissa Grant69 said:Does anyone happen to know a decent local choir from around here?

Slavonica from Đakovo
Frumentum from Indianapolis

Henry Harris5 said:Hey everyone,
Does anyone have some good recommendations for florists in Indianapolis or the surrounding areas?
I’d love to hear what kind of flowers or decor you guys went with for your big day, and more importantly, what kind of damage it did to your budget....

We went with the Castle. The price was whatever we negotiated—basically, we agreed on a number that worked for our budget.
I’ve heard Palma out of Đakovo is solid, and they aren't as pricey as the places in Indy.

Dracula said:I've read this, and honestly, I’ve seen it all before. In your weddings, everything always turned out perfect—even the rain decided to quit right on schedule.

You can't be serious. Thanks for the kind words, though. I'm sure you'll get a taste of your own medicine sooner or later. 🙂

Tyler Cox27 said:Alright ladies, I’m on the hunt for a makeup artist located in the Indianapolis area—though I am open to someone willing to travel to my place. I need someone truly reliable and highly recommended. I had initially crossed Victoria off my list after doing some digging; I kept hearing these frustrating complaints about her being unreliable and failing to show up when promised 🙂... yet, on the flip side, I kept seeing glowing reviews about her talent, and I really do love her style. However, the latest horror story I heard was the final straw for me. A bride booked her nearly a year in advance, and everything seemed perfectly fine leading up to the big day—constant communication, professional reassurances, the whole nine yards. Then, on the actual wedding morning, instead of Victoria showing up, she sent some random substitute to do the makeup! 🙂 🙂 🙂
That is why I am asking for your help in finding someone vetted, dependable, and strictly professional. Thank you so much 🙂

Victoria only made it big because she hooked up with Noah over at Sony Music, and honestly, her makeup skills are nonexistent. She caked on so much foundation that her face looks like it’s been plastered with concrete, and then it just starts cracking later on. That isn't what you call quality work. Her kit is practically gathering dust in the corners. 😲 He said during the planning that it’s just a trial run for the makeup. $25 And then they'll come for your money. $33 🙂 I also heard she won't even show up herself—she'll just send someone else in her place. Honestly, there are plenty of better options in Columbus. 😉
Here are a few:
Serena Williams She’s the real deal. A total pro who actually knows what she’s doing. Her makeup work is flawless.
Studio 54 The makeup stays put all day, and their hairstyles are actually interesting.
Anne Hathaway’s makeup corner on Facebook. She’s a bright, sweet girl with a degree from Boris. Her makeup looks great, too.
Helena She’s bright and sweet, and her makeup is spot on.

Matthew Brown76 said:Apple Studio? What’s the damage like? Also, who’s actually the best for hair and makeup?

I know what the price tag looks like. $50 If you're looking to pull off that high, voluminous look, here’s the deal. 🙂

driftingsailor81 said:Regarding the music, we actually locked in the Twister band. We even caught one of their rehearsals and saw them play at the Old bridge pub in Indianapolis once... and honestly, we’re stoked... 😍 A bunch of people gave us glowing reviews after seeing them play weddings, too. As for the cake—go with Peter Pan... they are hands down the best in the business... the creams are just incredible... Oh, and about those gift vouchers—my husband and I both played the raffle, and neither of us walked away with a single thing... but I’m heading down to Savannah this week to check out dresses at Mirea, so if I find something I love that actually fits my budget, I’ll grab that voucher 😍 if I don't get it sooner, but I'll be in Savannah on Wednesday 😁

See? One girl told me Peter Pan had gone downhill 🤷.
In the past, I’d grab a slice of cake there and it was great, but I once ordered a custom cake that was just: sponge + whipped cream + chocolate. It wasn't tasty, and it certainly wasn't memorable. Still, they're still #1 when it comes to ice cream 🙂.

Nicholas Nelson28 said:Hey there!

Does anyone happen to know much about Beck's studio over in Indianapolis? I'm looking into using them for some photography and video work.

Mr. Beck did our video, and we're happy with it. We got three DVDs. The whole wedding condensed into an hour, which is perfect for sharing with guests—not too long, but captures all the essentials, plus a 2-minute highlight reel. We got the footage from after the ceremony and the full wedding from start to finish. Everything arrived within three weeks. He has a website with videos and a Facebook page too.

Andrew Hill4 said:Hey ladies! My wedding is set for Spring 2015. How far in advance should I start looking for bands and other vendors? Thanks!🙂

If you want a wedding during peak season and want everything to be perfect—meaning you have your heart set on a specific venue, photographer, band, florist, etc.—you're better off starting a year in advance. Book them early so you can relax and plan the rest. That said, you can pull it all together in two or three months; it just depends on what kind of wedding you want and how many guests you're inviting.

Tyler Cox27 said:Excuse me, I am looking for a makeup artist in the Indianapolis area. Ideally, I would prefer someone who offers mobile services and can come directly to my home, though I wouldn't mind traveling to a salon if necessary... Thank you. 😁

Serena Williams is actually from Indy. She runs a studio in Columbus but she'll travel to a bride's house—basically wherever she's needed.😉
She's incredible. Nobody who's used her services has ever had a single complaint.😉

bluemoose7 said:Hey, would you mind just letting me know what the price was for those light shows you had... 😁

We paid that much$1000.
But I've got numbers for both the budget options and the premium ones. If you want them, I can shoot you a DM tomorrow.😁

Here’s the breakdown:
Nicholas's bridal shop - hands down the kindest, most patient, and friendliest auntie you'll find, plus they have the best selection
Suit and tie - Galileo
Castle Florals - the girl working there and I hit it off immediately, long before the wedding, so I didn't even bother looking elsewhere. She nailed everything.
Jeremiah Hall - like I mentioned on previous pages, the food and servers were top-tier; clean and tidy too (I've almost fainted in some venues).
Desserts and our cake - Grandma's sweets from Sage Bakery; honestly the best pastries I've ever had. From the first bite, I knew it was them or nothing. They killed it, especially the cake—looked amazing and tasted even better.
Jukebox Band - kept us dancing until dawn, with breaks only for dinner and a late-night snack.
Light show - Magnuslux; a friend of my brother put together a magical experience.
Photo and video - Beck studio and Bruno Jobst; unique, spontaneous, and totally edgy.
Favors, baskets, little bottles + love notes, menus, tablecloths, thank-you cards, welcome signs... I DIY'ed all of that myself. 😍
Invitations - printed by Graphic Arts (Ms. 👍 was wonderful), everything else was my own handiwork. 😍
Hair - Dario Sabo; he executed my vision perfectly.
Makeup - a friend from downtown who graduated from the Vrban-Joković Institute; the makeup was flawless, everyone is still raving about it, and I couldn't have been happier.

Since I spent a lot of time singing at weddings, I've seen it all—how venues breathe, the quality of the food, the service, and I've met plenty of people along the way... so all that experience really helped me out. 😍
If anyone needs help, I'm here. 😉

My experience:
We had our wedding there back in May. Aside from one minor hiccup regarding my drink selection, everything was fantastic—the food, the portions, the service, the friendliness, the cleanliness, and the speed. That’s exactly why I picked this venue; the servers are upbeat and fun, and the food actually tastes good. I’ve been to plenty of weddings, both personally and for work, so I’ve seen my fair share of venues, staff, and the whole circus that comes with it.
I could get a hold of the owner whenever I needed to. She was incredibly easy to talk to and willing to accommodate just about any whim we had.
The food was plentiful. Everyone told us they were stuffed, which makes sense since we went with a diverse menu.
If you're looking at fancy halls or hotels in Indianapolis, do your homework. Check them out in person, ask friends, check with acquaintances, and obviously hit the forums. A lot of what they pitch to couples during a quick 10-minute sales pitch doesn't match reality.
Hope this helps someone. 😉