All posts by Candy

How To

On A Budget

Planning a wedding can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to have the day of your dreams. Boston, MA, is full of resources for brides who want to plan a wedding on a budget and still have a memorable day.

Here are some ways to save money while planning a wedding in Boston:

Be flexible with the date and time of your wedding

Saturdays are the most popular day for weddings, but opting for a Friday or Sunday can save you money on venue rental and vendor fees. Also, hosting a daytime or off-peak season wedding can save you money.

Utilize public spaces

Boston has many beautiful public spaces that can be used for wedding ceremonies, such as the Boston Common and the Public Garden. Using these spaces can save you money on a venue rental fee.

Get creative with decorations

Instead of spending much money on flowers and decorations, get creative with DIY projects or utilize natural items like branches, leaves, and flowers from local parks.

Seek out budget-friendly vendors

Do your research and seek vendors offering affordable packages, such as photographers, bands, and florists. Utilize social media and online review sites to find the best deals.

Cut down on guest count

Inviting fewer guests can significantly reduce the cost of your wedding, as you will spend less on food, drinks, and venue rental. Consider having an intimate wedding with just close family and friends.

Use local and seasonal ingredients

Choosing local and seasonal ingredients for your wedding menu can save money while supporting local businesses.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate

When speaking with vendors, don’t be scared to negotiate on price. Many vendors are willing to work within your budget to help you have the wedding of your dreams.

Seek out help from friends and family

Friends and family members are often happy to help with wedding preparations, such as cooking, baking, and decorating. This can help save you money and allow you to spend quality time with loved ones.

In conclusion, planning a wedding on a budget in Boston, MA, is possible with some creativity and research. Utilizing public spaces, cutting down on guest count, and seeking out budget-friendly vendors are just a few ways to stretch your dollar and have a memorable day. With careful planning, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

LGBTQ

LGBTQ-Friendly Wedding Vendors

Boston is a city that is proud to support the LGBTQ community and is home to many resources for same-sex couples who are planning their wedding. From picturesque ceremony locations to LGBTQ-friendly wedding vendors, there is something for every couple in Boston. Here’s a look at some of the resources available for LGBTQ weddings in the city, including obtaining a marriage license and a list of popular LGBTQ-friendly vendors.

Marriage License

To obtain a marriage license in Boston, same-sex couples must first apply for a license at the city’s Marriage License Bureau, which is located in City Hall. Couples must apply together and in person, and you can make an appointment. The application process typically takes a few days, and the couple must present proof of identity and residency. Once the license is issued, the couple can get married in any location in Massachusetts.

Bands

1. Brandy, 2. Brandy 5, 3. First Class, 4. Mystique

Cakes:

1. Sweet Bakery, 2. Montillios Baking Company, 3. Konditor Meister, 4. Icing on the Cake, 5. Sugar Bakers Cakes.

Caterers

1. Max Ultimate Food, 2. The Catered Affair, 3. Table & Tulip, 4. The Fireplace, 5. Bistro

Dresses

1. Boston Bridal Company, 2. L’elite Bridal, 3. Bella Sera Bridal, 4. Hitched Salon, 5. Trunk Show Bridal.

Flowers

1. Petals & Roots, 2. The Exotic Greenhouse, 3. R Flowers, 4. Margarett’s Floral Design, 5. The Petal Pusher.

Officiants/Justice of the Peace

1. Heartfelt Ceremonies, 2. Just for Love Weddings, 3. Celebrant USA, 4. Boston Ceremony, 5. Sacred Ceremonies.

Planners

1. Just Add Love Events, 2. BOSS Events, 3. Best Day Ever, 4. Dreamers and Doers, 5. Sophisticated Gatherings.

Lighting

1. Boston Event Lighting, 2. DJ’s Event Services, 3. Event Light and Sound, 4. Innovative Event Services, 5. New England Sound & Light.

Photographers

1. Jenna McKenzie Photography, 2. KWD Photography, 3. Studio Nine, 4. J. Bart Co, 5. Artsy Shaadi.

Restaurants

1. The Beehive, 2. The Capital Grille, 3. The Metropolitan Club, 4. Scampo, 5. The Smith.

Transportation

1. A-Executive Limousine, 2. Boston Common Coach, 3. The Trolley Company, 4. Boston Party Bus, 5. Boston Limo.

Venues

1. The State Room, 2. The Four Seasons Hotel, 3. The Westin Copley Place, 4. The Royal Sonesta Hotel, 5. The Fairmont Copley Plaza.

Conclusion: Boston is a city that is proud to support the LGBTQ community, and there are many resources available for same-sex couples who are planning their wedding. From obtaining a marriage license at City Hall to finding the perfect LGBTQ-friendly wedding vendors, there is something for every couple in Boston.

Seasons

Four Seasons

Boston, MA, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and many attractions for newlyweds and honeymooners. Here are some popular places of interest grouped by season that they are sure not to want to miss:

Spring (March – May)

  • Boston Public Garden: Stroll romanticly through the lush gardens, watch the swan boats, and enjoy a picnic.
  • New England Aquarium: Get up close and personal with sea life and marine animals.
  • Fenway Park: Tour this historic baseball stadium and experience the heart of Red Sox Nation.

Summer (June – August)

  1. Cape Cod: Enjoy a day trip to this scenic coastal destination for a beach day, seafood, and quaint shopping.
  2. Boston Harbor Islands: Take a ferry to one of the 34 islands for scenic hikes, sandy beaches, and stunning city views.
  3. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Learn about the events that sparked the American Revolution.

Fall (September – November)

  1. The Freedom Trail: Stroll through history and visit 16 historically significant sites, including the Old North Church and Paul Revere House.
  2. The Arnold Arboretum: Explore the 265 acres of botanical gardens and green spaces in Jamaica Plain.
  3. Salem Witch Trials Memorial: Visit the site of the infamous witch trials and learn about this dark chapter in American history.

Winter (December – February)

  1. The Boston Common Frog Pond: Skate on the outdoor rink and enjoy hot cocoa in the city’s heart.
  2. The Museum of Fine Arts: Explore the collections and special exhibitions, including the Art of the Americas wing.
  3. The Boston Ballet: Take in a performance at the historic Wang Theater or watch the annual production of “The Nutcracker.”

No matter the season, Boston has endless opportunities for fun, adventure, and romance. Newlyweds and honeymooners are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.