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Continued from page 91 0  A l a s k a B r i d e & G r o o m  2025F | FlowersWedding flowers will probably play a huge role at your wedding — from the bridal bouquet that you’ll toss at the end of the night, to the floral décor in both the ceremony room and on your wedding reception tables. When it comes to flowers, choose blooms that complement your color scheme, theme and season. Aside from the traditional bouquet and table settings, flowers can also be used as accents for chairs, walls, dance floors and more, so go ahead and get creative when it comes to your floral arrangements. TIP: Different flowers will be available in different seasons. Speak to a floral specialist regarding the flowers that may be more available during the season you choose to get married.G | Guest ListPrior to looking at wedding venues, you must have an idea of approximately how many guests will be in attendance. Helpful hint: 10-20 percent of the RSVPs may decline – remember this when giving a minimum guarantee to your venue. To create your guest list, begin by identifying your must-invite loved ones and essential friends. Remember that your venue’s capacity and your budget will influence the final list. Be prepared for sensitive decisions, such as plus-ones and children, and maintain clear communication with guests throughout the process.H | HoneymoonAfter all the planning and arranging that you’ll be doing ahead of your big day, you definitely deserve a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon. Choose a destination and experience that aligns with your interests, whether it’s a relaxing beach getaway, a cultural exploration, or an adventurous trek. Flights are generally available to book 12 months in advance if you plan on going abroad. Some couples choose to go on a mini-moon right after their wedding and then plan a bigger honeymoon later down the line. Make necessary reservations and create a special itinerary during the wedding planning.I | InvitationsInvitations give guests a sample of what they can expect to experience. This means deciding on your theme and wedding concept before sending out your invitations. Your invites should incorporate your wedding color palette and give the invitees a taste of the overall wedding theme. Don’t forget to send out Save the Dates ahead of your official invitations. Save-the-date cards are mailed out six to eight months before the wedding, but can also be sent as soon as you've come up with a complete guest list and confirmedyour wedding date.J | JewelryWedding jewelry, from the rings to other pieces you choose to wear, is a meaningful choice. So feel free to choose those accessories that hold sentimental value and contribute to your special day’s beauty, whether it’s family heirlooms or something new. Some couples like to choose matching wedding rings, some couples choose to have their wedding rings custom-made, and others may choose to wear heirloom rings.K | Kids’ EntertainmentWhen children are part of your guest list, don’t forget about kid-friendly activities while wedding planning. Some tot-friendly ideas: Put a coloring book and crayons at each place setting or provide each child with a goodie bag of small treats like stickers, mini games, crayons and cookies. Consider their ages and preferences to ensure the little ones enjoy the celebration as much as the adults. Enlist a willing teenage guest, or hire a local babysitter, to supervise the little ones.L | LightingOne of the most dramatic ways to transform a room is with lighting. It can alter the mood, imbue a sense of ambience, and help move the event from a classy affair to the hottest club in town. If hiring a professional is within your budget (they can be more affordable than you might think!), they can really help up the drama — from projecting your initials onto the back wall to creating a romantic effect that feels like dancing under a starry sky. Uplighting and pin spotlighting are also popular ways to draw attention to the special touches a bride has included in her décor. M | MenuYour wedding menu should cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Collaborate with your caterer to craft a diverse selection of dishes that reflect your preferences and the overall theme. Consider dietary restrictions and allergies, and remember to taste the dishes beforehand to ensure they meet your expectations.N | NotebookIt is always good to keep a notebook of your wedding contracts and other material. Three ring binders with pockets are great for this. Store fabric swatches, magazine cutouts, and photos of flowers, cakes, dresses, etc. that you like and put them under the appropriate sections. Take these with you when visiting vendors and deciding on selections.