Posts by Mark Nguyen11

Olivia Gomez2 said:Hey ladies, I have a quick question for you all: we’re starting our visits soon and we'll be bringing along those gift baskets, so I’m a little unsure about what actually goes inside... should it be bourbon, cherry brandy, maybe some other spirits?🤷
Is there a specific order we should follow when making the rounds—like, do we need to visit the godparents first?

Yeah, first you have to give it to the best man. That’s non-negotiable.

Around here, people usually bring bourbon—specifically the good stuff meant for the wedding reception. It’s like a preview for the guests. Everyone shares from the same bottle, too. I know, I know, it's alcohol, but we always make sure everything is sanitized first. Usually, it comes in a decorative flask. If you can, bring extra to top off. We had to sprint back home just to refill a bottle after visiting the second house, and by the third stop, we could barely walk. That's what happens when everyone wants a heavy pour and the whiskey is actually decent. 😂

jadetiger7 said:I finally have the green light to let you all know that we’re opening a 500-capacity hall right where Bosina Baron Trenk used to be. Just to be clear, this isn't connected to the Boss—it's a new venture, and while we don't have a name for it yet, we'll start with this one space and hopefully add a second one soon. They're currently renovating, so it’s going to be a huge step up from what was there before. We’re aiming to be up and running by May or June!
Feel free to shoot me a DM if you want more details! 😉

Please...
It was about time they fixed that place. What did that room even look like?
Those industrial halogen lights were the worst—everything looked so pale and washed out under them. I really hope they get rid of those first.

Robert Moore86 said:If you know a specific place that actually does custom work, let me know. Everywhere I've called just does plain white tees.

It shouldn't matter if you bring your own shirts. I'm not entirely sure of the exact location myself, but when we were organizing things for Noriyada, we bought our own tees and dropped them off at a local print shop. They handled it without any issues, and it was pretty cheap. But if you ask them to provide the shirts, that's a different story. You just have to make it clear upfront that you're bringing your own. Even then, color matters—obviously, you can't print black ink on a black shirt and expect it to show up.

Robert Moore86 said:Does anyone know where in St. Louis I can get t-shirts printed besides HIG? I need them on church blue or navy... they only do white over there.

Just buy whatever shirt you want and take it to any local print shop. They'll do what you ask. It's pretty straightforward.

Ronald Jones11: Wedding dresses aren't really my thing. None of them are quite right, but this last one looks best on you compared to the others.

Jeffrey Walker3 said:Wait, what does the dance have to do with the bouquet toss? At the last two Midwest weddings I went to, those were totally separate things! 🤔

Seriously? Then what’s even the point of the bride's dance?

I always assumed it was standard everywhere—the bride finishes her dance, then the last groomsman takes his turn. While they're dancing, the girls gather around waiting. Eventually, the couple slips out of the hall, and during that moment, the bride tosses the bouquet. Sometimes a mother-in-law might break a plate for good luck, too. Some people skip that part, but that's how it's supposed to flow. After that, the newlyweds head out for maybe 20 or 30 minutes—just enough time to grab a drink, catch their breath, or touch up their makeup. Then, the lights go down, candles or torches are lit, and they come back for their private dance. To me, it's beautiful. It signals that all the formalities are over. Everything else is just pure party from there on out.

Jeffrey Walker3 said:Man, my family is gonna be so confused when they see me dancing with a young girl! People around New York City have never even heard of this (at least none of the ones I've talked to) 🤣

I actually considered skipping the bridal dance too. My reasoning was purely practical—my fiancé’s family isn't from the Midwest, so it wasn't really part of their traditions. But as I was chatting with people, I realized how much they were actually looking forward to it. Apparently, everyone had heard about how common this tradition is in the Midwest, and they thought it would be a great addition. So, I figured, if it makes everyone that happy, let's just do the dance. Plus, on a personal note, I think it adds a nice layer to the bouquet toss. Without the dance, the whole bouquet thing feels a little flat to me.

Robin Chase7If you're looking for wine, honestly, you could just head down to the cellars in a town like Napa or even some small spots in Sonoma. They have incredible selections there, and you can often buy it in bulk if that's what you need. Just ring a bell at any local spot or ask someone around town; people there live and breathe this stuff, and they’ll happily sell you a few bottles privately. It's a way of life for them. Just don't expect much variety outside of the classics like Chardonnay or Cabernet—those are the staples of the region.

Jeffrey Walker3 said:I was just crunching the numbers yesterday to see what the guest lodging situation is gonna look like. There aren't tons of people coming, but still 🙂

But honestly, I’d feel super awkward saying—hey, come celebrate our wedding, but you gotta cover your own hotel 🤷
It's such a tough one 🤔

I already touched on this in another thread, but I'll say it again here...

I've been to plenty of weddings, both here in the States and abroad, and nobody has ever picked up the tab for my lodging. I never felt it was expected, nor did I expect it (once, I even paid around $167 for a night's stay and no one complained). Honestly, I've never even heard of someone having their room paid for; it's the first time I've seen it mentioned on this forum (if that's even a thing people do). People, this is just standard practice nowadays. I think more folks would be surprised if I *did* pay for them rather than if I didn't... and no, I don't feel bad asking people to cover themselves. Maybe I'll get slightly smaller gifts because of it (that's usually how it works), but still...

You just tell them: the rooms are reserved for those who want to attend, but you'll need to handle your own booking and payment.
And that's that...

Walter Price5 said:I know, but I need space for about 100 people, so the price difference matters if it's $33 and 135 per person... the bridal party and I will stay at the Hilton... but the groom is from San Francisco and his guests are coming from there, so we thought it might be better to have the gathering and reception at a different hotel rather than the Hilton where our wedding party is staying.
The Marriott holds 56 people, so most of our friends will probably end up there, while the rest of the guests can stay at the Hilton; we'll probably organize it that way so I don't have to add yet another hotel to the mix.🙂

Is there any news on Mia?

Are you really sure you want to host guests there?
Did you check with Cibolet or maybe Slavi? Or even Vili? They tend to be a bit pricier, but for a group that large, I'm sure they'd be willing to work with us on the price.

We booked out almost the entire Marriott for that period—a few days before and a few days after. My husband and his relatives aren't even local. I made it crystal clear to everyone from the start: they cover their own lodging. They’re just getting a group discount because of us, and that’s where I draw the line. It feels fair to me. Nobody has complained or taken offense; in fact, everyone is thrilled because the rates are so low. Honestly, I don't know how I would have managed if I were expected to foot the hotel bill for everyone.

fadedgardener said:For Studio 54, I heard the starting price for this year is around 11 $0.00.

worth every penny...

Walter Price5 said:It looks decent.. I called Hostel Plus... they said they'd get back to me tomorrow with a price. I also called Lady M, and they quoted $33 since we said we'd fill up the whole hotel. I guess Hostel Plus is a bit nicer though.

Then why not just book the rooms at the Admiral? You already have guests there. Every other hotel is further out—especially that Gem hostel, which is practically outside the city limits. Your guests would end up having to hop in a car and drive several miles anyway... I don't quite get it. Besides, the Admiral offers discounts for wedding guests.

Walter Price5 said:I still haven't booked a photographer or a florist. I've asked about this before, but I haven't gotten a straight answer yet. I guess I'm stuck on Krizmanić because I heard he was decent, but then I saw some conflicting stuff about him on the forums.
I'm not local, so I don't really know anyone to recommend, and since people have been mentioning him online, I'm a bit hesitant. If anyone here has actually used him, maybe you could reach out with some details?

Regarding Krizmanić—he's alright. His rates aren't outrageous, so for the price, it's fine. He isn't a high-end pro, but he puts in the effort. Honestly, he's better than half the people shooting weddings out in the Midwest. I've seen some of his shots that were absolutely stunning, while others were just average. I suspect it depends on his mood that day—which shouldn't happen with a true professional who charges premium rates. His work is solid, follows the rules, and stays on schedule, even if it lacks that "wow" factor sometimes.

I’d also suggest looking into Rahel. She has studios in both Vincennes and El Paso. If you can, go see her work in person. Her photography is excellent; she has a real eye for elegance. The shots are well-executed, though they aren't overly edited or flashy. She charges around a thousand dollars, but you get a lot for the package. See if she fits your style.

Aside from Studio69, those are the only photographers in the Vincennes area I’d personally recommend. As for the rest of the US, I couldn't say. There are probably better options out there, but the prices would likely be much higher.

David Ramos25 said:David Ramos25, thank you for the thorough report on the 🙂
I was hesitant, but I think I'll see what she has to offer. I have my eye on those tall, slim vases... though I suspect she doesn't carry them. Everyone I know who shops there seems to own their signature martini glasses...
We spoke already, and she added me to the list, though she suggested I stop by in February.
Did you schedule your visit, or did you just show up on a whim?

Honestly, I can't remember if she had that specific style. She showed me so much stuff at once that it's all a blur. I’ll probably grab some martini glasses too, but I want to try something different with them—not just the usual flower arrangements.
I called her to ask if I could drop in. When? I told her right then. Within thirty minutes, everything was settled and the deposit was paid. We'll figure out the finer details later.

Walter Price5 said:Thanks... I only know about Krizmanić, but over at the casino they actually recommended Jack.🙂
Do you happen to know if there's a better florist or photographer around Indianapolis, and is there much of a price difference?

p.s. - I have no idea what Krizmanić or Jack charge. I haven't reached out to anyone yet, so I figured I'd check the forum first to see what other girls say based on their actual experience.

I think Jak is excellent; I already mentioned that in another post. I went in for a consultation and found everything I was looking for. Prices depend on the type and amount of flowers, of course, but she mentioned it rarely goes over $1000. For everything—bouquets, car decor, the hall, the church—the issue is that many couples, like my cousin for example, come in and say "whatever, just make something within this budget," and naturally, it might not turn out as wonderful as it could. But if you tell her exactly what you want and show that you care about the look, I believe she does a much better job. She showed me photos of some of her work and everything looked great. They even do balloon decorations, which look really nice... I liked that.

Other places jack up their prices so high you almost faint when you see the bill. For instance, a colleague paid $567 at one florist for a bouquet and car decor, and it was just roses—not exactly worth that kind of money...

As for that exclusive studio in the area, some people say they are phenomenal, while others say they're just okay. I even heard—though I don't know if it's true—that they don't actually do much of the work themselves, but instead order from others and then resell it under their own brand at a markup.

Olivia Gomez2 said:Welcome to the group!
Personally, I’d suggest checking out Igor from St. Louis—we used him for our last project, and he's great (if you send him an inquiry, he can show you plenty of his portfolio):
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/p...00000504890903
http://www.youtube.com/user/gothicsb.../1/OGsFvJ-aFRc

And roughly how much does this cost? No idea what to expect...

David Ramos25 said:Why on earth would being downtown make it any better?🙄

It’s mostly because of that central location. I think a lot of people prioritize that. Still, the Admiral managed to build up a certain level of respect with that one blunder—at least among us folks back in St. Louis. Originality counts for something, I suppose.

Or, like my situation—everything I need is right there or close enough. It just works better that way for me.

casualfalcon15 said:Hey everyone 🙂 I’m finally jumping in here after lurking for quite a while 🙂 This Reddit community has been a massive help to me, so thanks to everyone for putting in the work 🙂 Hopefully, I can actually be useful and offer some solid advice of my own down the line 🙂

Welcome!!!

Hannah Bailey6 said:Wait, so there really aren't any weddings happening in the new hall? That feels a little off to me... I mean, this is just a rental venue, not a full-service hotel, so you'd think they'd be booking events constantly.

Did you actually ask them about it? Regarding the rental part...

I don't think they do that kind of thing. But maybe double-check one more time.
As for the food at the Admiral, you get several menu options, and within those menus, you can pick from a few different dishes if you go with their full service. (Personally, I've always found myself gravitating toward that classic Midwest style menu.) So, it could be up to the couple and their own preferences if you didn't like it. Otherwise, they're known for having phenomenal food—I've been convinced by that many times myself. (At least regarding the downtown location)

I booked the downtown spot for a few reasons. My church is right across the street, I live ten minutes away, and since it’s part of a hotel, I definitely need the accommodations for guests. It was just the ideal choice for me. I don't think I'm the only one thinking this way.
The other option near the outskirts is basically just another hall like any other. With the Admiral downtown, you get a bit more value (as I mentioned before)... at least that's my take. On the other hand, it's winter... there are always fewer weddings in the winter than in the summer. Once it warms up, I believe we'll see plenty of them on Fridays and Saturdays (once Lent is over).

Regarding flowers, the local florist from the suburbs is amazing. I sat down with her for a consultation, and she does everything possible; if she can imagine it, she can make it. Decorations, all kinds of flowers. She really impressed me because I thought I wouldn't find what I had in mind, or that no one would understand my vision, but she has exactly what I wanted. I'm going with her.

Betty Booth2 said:Ladies, I need some help finding a photographer/videographer.
Looking in the Indianapolis area.
Any experiences or recommendations?
June 2011...
Just looking for someone average. I don't need a high-end luxury specialist, but I definitely don't want amateur junk.
Thanks! 😉

In my opinion, Rahela, Krizmanic, or Studio 69 are the best options. I've always heard good things about them.

By the way: Rahela is booked up starting June 11th for a year. 😁 😁 😁

Henry Ortiz18 said:So, if I remember correctly, there are only about three bridal salons in Indianapolis—though I’m based in NYC now, I used to live in Indy where the wedding was held, so my memory is a little fuzzy. Ines is probably the most low-key option if you ask me, which worked for me since I was looking for something incredibly simple. The lady at Nikolin is absolutely lovely and truly goes above and beyond, but honestly, some of their dresses were in pretty rough shape. Plus, even though I just wanted something basic, she kept trying to push these massive crinolines on me, so I eventually gave up on Nikolin altogether. Stefani seems decent enough, but I never actually tried anything on there, and apparently, you have to make an appointment. Since I had just arrived from NYC that day, I didn't have the patience to play phone tag to set something up, so I just stuck with having my dress custom-made at Ines. To be perfectly honest, I’m not exactly the "typical bride," and I wasn't exactly riding a wave of euphoria over the whole gown situation; in fact, the mere thought of wearing a wedding dress felt a bit suffocating 🙂 Ultimately, I got exactly what I wanted, so it all comes down to personal taste... but really, it shouldn't be too much trouble to check out those three shops; it's not like there are a hundred of them to choose from 🙂

haha 😂 😂 😂

exactly.😁

Henry Ortiz18 said:I don't think things are quite that bleak. Sure, they might have fewer options than Nikolin, but I actually had my own dress custom-made there. Why? Because every single time I went into Nikolin looking for something simple, they kept shoving these massive, heavy gowns at me—stuff I couldn't even walk in properly! And to top it off, they kept insisting that the style I actually wanted just wouldn't suit me. So, I decided to try Ines instead. I sat them down, explained exactly what I was looking for, showed them some inspiration photos, and tried on one dress that came close to my vision. Once we realized it actually looked great on me, we were all set for custom tailoring, and I was thrilled with the result.
At the end of the day, you really just have to go check for yourself; everyone has such different experiences and opinions...

Of course everyone has different experiences and sees things differently...

My experience at Nikolin was actually quite good. The woman really went out of her way for me, despite how much I was overthinking things—it actually ended up making me feel a bit awkward. They were fine, even if I wasn't a huge fan of their wedding dress selection, and I noticed some of them were in pretty rough shape.
As for the Ines salon, I was completely disappointed. From the moment the woman walked out looking all disheveled in a heavy parka and an old tracksuit just to show me dresses, I was done. She kept insisting on showing me styles I explicitly said I didn't want, and the whole atmosphere there... It was just terrible for me. But hey, we're all different...
In the end, I bought a gown at Stefani Atelier. I'm satisfied with both the dress and the service. (Well, except for their constant pressure tactics... stuff like: "Oh, it looks so beautiful on you, you have to take it right now," or "We can't hold it without a deposit," etc., for every single dress...)