Let Us Make Them for You

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Let Us Make Them for You

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You”

Welcome and congratulations on your event! We are honored to have been chosen to assist you in planning your special day.

Please follow us on: http://www.facebook.com/memories6516 http://www.instagram.com/atimeformemories http://www.pinterest.com/memories6516

It’s A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You”

Michala Arnold, CWEP Owner/Operator [email protected] 817-933-6248 A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Table of Contents  Intro  Essay  Mission Statement  Executive Summary  Market Analysis  Strategy & Implementation  Management Summary  Financial Plan  Contract Info  Additional Services  Bridal Questionnaire  Marriage License Info  Budget Friendly Ideas  Bridal Party Responsibilities

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Essay

A Time For Memories is a mother-daughter business duo. We are a pair of certified wedding and event planners. We offer day of, partial, and full service planning packages; and anything in between. We go into our client relationships with open arms, and build the ATFM family one event at a time. We are a dynamic duo that can offer anything the client desires. We primarily market towards newly engaged couples, however we have incredibly open minds and will work with any demographic. Our first year will be spent building our image. In 5 years we plan to be well known in our local area, and working to scale our business. In 10 years we will be fully staffed and profitable. A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Mission Statement

At A Time For Memories we endeavor to transform our clients into family. We are 100% committed to providing all that you need to make your event unforgettable. We are a mother-daughter team, bringing together our own unique sets of skills and talents tailored to suit your vision for your special day. Our hope is to grow our family one event at a time and are excited you'll be joining us. Giving back is an important part of our plan and we can't wait to get started. So without further ado...

It's A Time To Make Memories-"Let Us Make Them For You" A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Executive Summary

A Time For Memories is a Homegrown Texas based company with deep family roots. Founded in 2014 by mother-daughter team Alicia Womack & Michala Arnold, we strive to provide reliable, ethical services to our clients for years to come. We intend to provide planning and coordination services from before birth to bereavement, therefore our target is large. We plan to offer a variety of services and believe we will have something for everyone.

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Market Analysis Summary

Professional and capable event coordinators are always in high demand. Each year there are millions of wedding in addition to the untold number of other events families share. With billions of dollars spent each year on these celebrations, full service planning is essential to their success. At A Time For Memories we believe in providing a one stop shop approach for our clients, keeping their experience as simple and efficient as possible. By taking over mundane and stressful tasks we are able to offer our clients peace of mind while watching their vision come to life.

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Strategy & Implementation Summary

A Time For Memories plans to provide event planning and coordination to our clients as well as supporting services such as decoration, floral, and baking services to name a few. We plan to cover all events from before birth to bereavement as well as corporate and fundraising events. Our goal is to provide excellent service that our clients are comfortable recommending to others while rising to the top of our industry. Maintaining integrity, creating life long relationships and giving back through philanthropy are our primary goals and we intend to reach them through hard work, determination and aggressive marketing. Client acquisition is paramount in our success and we intend for our work to speak for itself. Our pricing will be comparable to the industry standard while our service will be extraordinary. A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Management Summary

Bill Ancona-Upper Management, Owner/Operator of parent company-Ancor Technologies, 40 year career business executive, Entrepreneur, Business Counselor

Alicia Womack-Owner/Operator of Mommy Cakes home bakery, Co-Owner of A Time For Memories, Entrepreneur, Certified Wedding & Event Planner, Artist, Organizer, Holds Associate of Arts Degree

Michala Arnold-Owner/Operator of Mommy Cakes home bakery, Co-Owner of A Time For Memories, Entrepreneur, Certified Wedding & Event Planner, Holds Allied Health Degree-Texas A&M University A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Contract Info

A Time For Memories Event Agreement This Contract for Event Services (“Agreement”) is made effective as of______(date), by Ancor Technologies Inc. DBA-A Time For Memories Weddings and Events. For the remainder of this Agreement, the party who is contracting to provide services shall be referred to as “ATFM” and the parties who will be receiving the services shall be referred to collectively as the “Clients”. ATFM represents it has background in wedding/event coordination services and access to related products and services in DFW and surrounding areas. ATFM willingness to provide, and the Clients desire to receive services based on this Agreement, is as follows: Client 1 Client 2 Paying Client

Address Address Address City, State, Zip City, State, Zip City, State, Zip Email Email Email Phone Phone Phone

Number of guests

0-50 50-100 150-200 200-250 250-300 300+

Ceremony Location Reception Location

Time Time

Contact Name & # Contact Name & #

Officiant Photography

Contact Name & # Contact Name & #

Ceremony Music Florist

Contact Name & # Contact Name & # Bakery Videography

Contact Name & # Contact Name & #

Caterer DJ/Band

Contact Name & # Contact Name & #

Tuxedo Rental Transportation

Contact Name & # Contact Name & #

Hair/Makeup Stylist Other

Contact Name &# Contact Name &#

Vendors may be added to this agreement up to 30 days prior to your event. ATFM requires copies of contracts for all vendors listed above.

Sign______Date______Page 1

A Time For Memories Event Agreement

1. Services: The Clients are contracting for our event related “Services” as defined on page 4 of this Agreement, and those of the vendors to be provided on the date of ______(the “Event”). The Clients desire to have their Event coordinated by, and related products and services provided by, ATFM. This Agreement will extend for no longer than the length of 30 months from its inception.

ATFM will provide unlimited electronic/phone correspondence for the duration of this contract.

ATFM will agree to no less than 5 and no more than 15 in person meetings for the duration of this Agreement.

ATFM will provide an inspiration board with two initial designs and three revisions per event.

ATFM will provide a list of preferred vendors if so desired by the Clients. Preferred vendors can include but are not limited to: caterers, rental agencies, officients, musicians, bands, dj’s, entertainment, photographers, videographers, pastry chefs, hotels, venues, hair/makeup artists.

2. Compensation for Services: The Clients have agreed to pay an initial non-refundable retainer of 50% of their service price, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, amounting to $______, upon execution of this Agreement. If in the event the Clients chose to book a date with ATFM prior to the signing of this contract, a 10% booking fee has already been collected in the amount of $______, and has been deducted from the agreed upon amount of said retainer. The remaining balance of $______, may be paid in 4 installments with the agreed on dates of, ______, ______, ______, & ______, In the event the balance is not paid in full 30 days prior to the date of the “Event”, a $100 daily late fee will be assessed. If in the event the balance is not paid in full 7 days prior to the “Event”, the Clients forfeit continued services by ATFM as well as monies paid to date.

ATFM does happily offer a 3% discount to active military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS & first responders (W/ID). This discount will be related to the total contracted price and does not apply to the booking fee or 50% retainer mentioned above.

 Travel Policy- any event over 100 miles will be considered a destination wedding and will be subject to additional expenses.  Creativity Policy- any special requests made by the Clients for props or large displays that are to be designed/assembled by ATFM will be charged at $50/hr./employee + cost of materials, with a minimum of 2 employees at all times.  Additional charges for Services will be assessed for custom and out-of-ordinary requests by the Clients.

3. Types of Payment Accepted: Payment may be made by Cash, Credit Card (convenience fees apply), and Check (60 days prior to date of “Event”), ($50 returned check fee).

Sign______Date______Page 2

A Time For Memories Event Agreement

4. Change, Cancellation & Refund Policy- In the event changes to this Agreement become necessary, they will be limited to no less than 30 days prior to the “Event”. In the event the Clients choose to cancel either their “Event” and/or continued Services from ATFM, all monies received to date are non-refundable. An exception will be made in the event of the death of an immediate family member. In this case the “Clients” could be offered either a one-time contract extension (subject to venue/vendor availability) or have returned to them 50% of any uninvested funds, excluding booking fees and retainers. In certain circumstances uninvested funds may become non-refundable.

The performance of this Agreement by either party is subject to acts of God, war, government regulation or decision, government cancelation, disaster, strikes, civil disorder, acts of terrorism, curtailment of transportation facilities, or other emergency making it inadvisable, illegal, or impossible to provide the facilities or to hold the “Event”. This Agreement may be terminated without liability for any one or more such reasons by written notice from one party to the other as soon as is reasonably possible after the occurrence of said event.

5. Conditions & Restrictions of Planner-  I understand that my role will be that of advisor and coordinator. You will make the actual selections of service providers and I will implement those selections.  You will make payments directly to the service providers/vendors and not to me. I do not accept any commissions from recommended vendors and cannot guarantee any service provider’s performance or product. If litigation occurs, it occurs in the jurisdiction where my office is located and the winning party will be reimbursed for attorney and legal fees and court costs.  It is also your responsibility to notify me of any changes in a timely manner. I shall not be held liable for any changes made by you or your selected service providers.  I will use my professional judgment when taking action in regard to changes, weather, tardiness, non- performance, etc. based on the situation, time limitations and/or your wishes.  In the event a venue coordinator is on site I will work with you and the coordinator as needed.  In regard to ATFM employee attire, it will be understood by both parties that our attire will consist of either a company t-shirt or dress shirt as appropriate, black pants, teal or black shoes as appropriate. ATFM employees will make every effort to blend into the background while remaining noticeable in the event we are needed. 6. Event Insurance- ATFM recommends but does not provide event insurance. Event insurance can be purchased via the “Clients” homeowners policy or specialized event insurance companies.

7. Media & Likeness Waiver- ATFM respectfully requests the right to use the likeness of the “Clients”, their guests, ceremony and reception for the purpose of media, social media development and advertising. By initialing below, consent by the “Clients” is hereby given.

Clients ____, ____, ____ Guests ____, ____, ____ Ceremony ____, ____, ____ Reception ____, ____, ____

Sign______Date______Page 3

A Time For Memories Event Agreement 8. Non-Disparagement Policy- “Clients” agree to take no action, which is intended to, or would reasonably be expected to, harm ATFM, its reputation and its employees or which would reasonably be expected to lead to unwanted or unfavorable publicity. “Clients” shall not make any disparaging remarks of any sort or otherwise communicate any disparaging comments about ATFM or any of the other released entities or persons to any third party at any time following his execution of this Agreement. Furthermore, ATFM agrees that it shall not make any disparaging remarks about “Clients” to any other person or entity. Notwithstanding the above, nothing in this provision shall prevent or prohibit either party from testifying in any legal proceeding, including at deposition, hearing or trial, from cooperating in good faith in any governmental investigation or action, or from making any report required by law. 9. Cooperation Policy- ATFM requests the “Clients”, their families and guests to cooperate in good faith with ATFM and its staff. In the event of excessive or egregious behavior exhibited by the “Clients”, their families or guests toward ATFM and its staff, ATFM will immediately cease and desist any and all further Services and will vacate the premises, retaining in full all monies paid to date. Excessive or egregious behavior will be defined, for the purpose of this Agreement, as inappropriate verbal or physical abuse, sexual harassment, or unlawful behavior. 10. Indemnity & Hold Harmless Clause- The undersigned user, “Clients”, and the persons thereof who will be participating in the “Event”, hereby agree.. To release, indemnify and hold harmless ATFM, its officers, agents, employees, members, owners and their agents, directors, management, officials and volunteers assisting in the event their personal representatives, assigns, heirs, and next of kin from all liability and claims of any kind, including claims based on negligence, for any injury, loss, harm, damage or death that might arise or occur during or in connection with the “Event”.

11. Available Services-  Assistance in budget determination & breakdown as needed.  Discussion of theme, color, style & complete event design including inspiration board.  Research of event professionals in each category that fit event style & budget.  Provide suggestions & guidance in final selections.  Development of detailed timeline for vendors & event hosts.  Follow up calls to all contracted vendors 1-2 weeks prior to event.  Supervision of rehearsal, maximum # of hours to be based on complexity of ceremony.  Day of visit to any venue prior to event.  On-site coordination & supervision of event.  Additional event manager on-site, day of event.  Unlimited day of assistance.

All agreed upon Services will be listed in greater detail on page 5 of this Agreement based on package selection made by the “Clients”.

Sign______Date______Page 4 A Time For Memories Event Agreement

Package #1-Gold-$5000 The Gold Package includes all Bronze and Silver Services as well as:  Planning & supervision of rehearsal, maximum # of hours to be based on complexity of ceremony • Ensure all wedding party personal floral is distributed • Up to 10 venue tours • Work with catering including menu selections • Inspire in print media including save the dates, invites and thank you cards • Coordinate hotel accommodations and guest transportation • Coordinate rehearsal dinner including location, menu and beverages

Package #2-Silver-$4000 The silver Package includes all Bronze Services as well as: • Setup of personal items (programs, sand ceremony, seating cards, favors, etc.) • Execution of décor/theme items • Preparation and execution of advanced event planning timeline • Create and maintain budget including vendor payments • Meet with all event vendors and keep vendors current with all updates • Follow up calls to all contracted vendors 1-2 weeks prior to event. • Detailed day of itinerary delivered to all vendors • Up to 5 venue tours • Assistance with vendor meetings (cake, floral, attire, etc.)

Package #3-Bronze-$3000  Assistance in budget determination & breakdown  Discussion of theme, color, style & complete event design including inspiration board.  Research of event professionals in each category that fit event style & budget.  Provide suggestions & guidance in final selections.  Development of detailed day of timeline for vendors & event hosts.  Supervision of rehearsal, maximum # of hours to be based on complexity of ceremony.  Day of visit to all venues prior to event.  On-site coordination & supervision of event.  Additional event manager on-site, day of event.  Unlimited day of assistance.  Event coordinator on event day/ event assistant on event day/ Service for entire event • Supervise vendor setup of décor & rental items • Attend to any requests of event holders • Cue wedding party for procession • Preparation and execution of basic event planning timeline

Additional Services are available at the clients request for an additional fee.

Sign______Date______Page 5 A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Additional Services

 Cake Art  Floral Design  Bridal Registry Management  Bridal Website  Stationary Management  Shower Planning Event Opportunities

Anniversary Bereavement Engagement Proposal Baby Shower Birthday Fourth of July Team Building Bachelorette Bridal Shower Graduation Thanksgiving Baptism Christmas Halloween Valentines Batmitsva Easter Party New Years Wedding AND MORE! A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Bridal Questionnaire

1. Name of Client One: ______

Client One Phone: ______Client One Email: ______

2. Name of Client Two: ______

Client Two Phone: ______Client Two Email: ______

3. Name of Playing Client: ______

Paying Client Phone: ______Paying Client Email: ______

4. Mailing Address: ______

______

5. Billing Address: ______

______

6. Future Address: ______

______

7. Age Range:

a. 18-24 b. 25-30 c. 31-35 d. 36-45 e. Over 45

8. City of Wedding: ______

9. Wedding Date: ______

10. Time of Ceremony: ______

11. Time of Reception: ______

12. Bride's Heritage/Faith/Religion (Optional): ______

13. Groom's Heritage/Faith/Religion (Optional): ______

14. Wedding Budget:

a. Under $10,000 b. $10,001- $15,000 c. $15,001- $20,000 d. $20,001- $25,000 e. Over $25,000

15. Number of Guests:

a. Under 50 b. 50-100 c. 101-150 d. 151-200 e. 201-250 f. Over 250

16. How many out of town guests are in need of hotel rooms, if any: ______

17. What type of wedding is planned?

a. Very Formal b. Formal c. Semi Formal d. Informal e. Other

18. Select the top three words that you envision your wedding day to be:

a. Elegant b. Simple c. Party d. Celebration

e. Grand f. Traditional g. Romantic h. Sophisticated

i. Glamorous j. Hip k. Funky l. Contemporary

m. Vintage n. Magical o. Festive p. Conservative

19. What is the MOST important thing about your wedding day: ______

20. What is the LEAST important thing about your wedding day: ______

21. Social Media Handles:

a. Facebook- ______

b. Twitter- ______

c. Instagram- ______

22. Indoor/Outdoor______23. Time of Day______24. Colors______25. Theme______26. Type of Music______27. Favorite Flowers______28. Type of Food______29. Type of Drink______30. How did couple meet______31. How long engaged______32. Size of Bridal Paarty______33. Vision for Wedding______34. Preferences______35. Where do you shop______36. Favorite Things______37. Type of Service __Bronze __Silver __Gold

Notes______A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Marriage License Info

GENERAL INFORMATION There are two types of marriage licenses--Formal marriage license and Declaration and Registration of an Informal Marriage (Common law). The basic requirements are the same for both types of marriage. • Both parties must appear in person. • Both parties must be at least 18 years of age. • Must have a valid, government-issued picture identification. Names will be reflected on the marriage license exactly as they appear on the IDs. The County Clerk's office cannot change the name or spelling of name on ID. Forms of acceptable, valid identification include: 1 Driver's license 2 State ID 3 Passport 4 Military ID 5 Visa • Must know Social Security number. • A blood test is NOT required.

FORMAL MARRIAGE A formal marriage license can be obtained from any county in Texas and the marriage can be performed anywhere. If the marriage takes place outside of Texas, contact the appropriate state office, consulate or embassy to learn the marriage requirements for that state or country. Additional requirements and information: • There is a 72-hour waiting period after the license is issued before the marriage ceremony can take place. The 72-hour waiting period can be waived by meeting one of three criteria. The waiting period does not apply if an applicant is a member of the armed forces. Military ID must be shown to the person who performs the marriage ceremony. The waiting period does not apply if the applicant obtains a 72-hour waiver signed by a District Judge. Waiver must be shown and kept by the person performing the ceremony. Applicants possess a valid Twogether in Texas Certificate. Certificate must be shown to the person who performs the ceremony. • The marriage must take place within 90 days from the date of issuance--no exceptions. • If divorced in Texas, there is a 30-day waiting period after the divorce is final before remarriage--unless waived. If the 30-day waiting period is waived, a certified copy must be presented at the time the license is purchased. • The fee is $71 cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover. (Credit card use adds an additional 3 percent fee.) • The fee is $11 for couples who attend the State of Texas approved Marriage Education Class and present a valid Twogether in Texas Certificate. For more information visit the Twogether in Texas website.

ONLINE APPLICATIONS Marriage license applications may be filled out and saved online. However, applicants must appear in person to sign and purchase the marriage license. Please note: additional information will be required of each applicant when the marriage license is issued. The process can be completed at the downtown location or at a Tarrant County sub-courthouse location.

MINORS OBTAINING A MARRIAGE LICENSE If an applicant is 16 years of age or older, but under 18 years of age, parental consent or a court order is required. Parents giving consent must be present with minor(s) when the marriage license is purchased. • Parents must show government-issued picture identification. • Minor(s) must show certified copy of birth certificate with current school ID, driver's license or state ID. • If parents of minor are currently married, one parent is required to be present to sign the parental consent form. • If parents of minor are divorced, a certified copy of the divorce decree must be presented by the parent that has Managing Conservatorship (custody) of the minor. Joint Managing Conservatorship requires both parents be present unless stated otherwise in the divorce decree.

ABSENT APPLICANT An absentee affidavit is to be completed if an applicant is unable to appear personally before the County Clerk to apply for a marriage license. The other applicant may apply for a marriage license on behalf of the absent applicant. The County Clerk may not issue a marriage license for which both applicants are absent unless both applicants are: • a member of the armed forces of the United States stationed in another country in support of combat or another military operation

A person may agree to marriage by the appearance of a proxy appointed in the affidavit authorized by Subchapter A if the person is:

(1) a member of the armed forces of the United States stationed in another country in support of combat or another military operation; and

(2) unable to attend the ceremony.

Absentee Affidavit This document contains form fields that can be edited within your browser. Some browser security settings may prevent access to PDF forms. If you are unable to edit the form in your browser, try downloading the file to your system and opening it directly. To download the file, right-click the link and choose the "Save link as..." or "Save target as..." option.

DECLARATION AND REGISTRATION OF AN INFORMAL MARRIAGE (COMMON LAW) An informal marriage license can be obtained and recorded by a couple who agree to be married, and after the agreement, they lived together in this state as a couple and represented to others that they were married. • Both parties must be present. An absentee affidavit cannot be used for an informal marriage license. • A person under 18 years of age may not obtain an informal marriage license. • A person may not obtain an informal marriage license if presently married to someone else. • The fee is $36 cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover. (Credit card use adds an additional 3 percent fee.)

PERSONS AUTHORIZED TO CONDUCT MARRIAGE CEREMONY Licensed or ordained Christian ministers and priests, Jewish rabbis, persons who are officers of religious organizations and who are duly authorized by the organization to conduct marriage ceremonies; Justices of the Supreme Court, Justices of the Court of Criminal Appeals, Justices of the District, County and Probate Courts, Judges of the County Courts at Law, Courts of Domestic Relations and Juvenile Courts, retired Justices and Judges of such courts, Justices of the Peace, retired Justices of the Peace, the Judge of a Municipal Court, the Judges and Magistrate of the Federal Courts of this state.

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday-Friday 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m.

For more information, please call 817-884-1550.

RETURN OF MARRIAGE LICENSE The person who performs a marriage ceremony is responsible for returning the marriage license to our office within 30 days from the date of marriage. The license can be returned in the provided envelope or mailed to:

Tarrant County Clerk 200 Taylor Street, Suite 301 Fort Worth, TX 76196

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Budget Friendly Ideas  Have a small guest list

 Design your own stationary and invitations

 Hold ceremonies off peak times (Friday or Sunday)

 Hold ceremonies at home

 Have reception during brunch time (less drinks)

 Skip the bridal shower and groomsmen party

 Skip the gift giving between groomsmen and bridesmaid

 Purchase dresses on the sale rack

 Purchase decorations after the holiday sales (Christmas – lights)

 Purchase drinks in whole sale or on sale

 Choose a few flowers for bouquets (local flowers tend to be cheaper) or buy fake flowers

 Ask for help from friends and family to design center pieces or favor pieces

 Do your own hair and make up for your wedding or have experienced friends to do it

A Time For Memories “Let Us Make Them For You” Bridal Party Responsibilities MAID OF HONOR Before the Wedding Duties: Easing the Way to "I Do" In the months leading up to the wedding, the bride will often call on her maid of honor for help, whether that means shopping for accessories, deciding on décor, or simply lending an open ear during times of stress. These are normal best friend duties that will likely come naturally for most maids of honor, but sometimes there are more challenging obligations as well. Here's what you might expect:

Wedding Dress Shopping. Some brides know exactly what they want in a wedding gown. Others will embark on a months-long process to find the perfect fit. Either way, you should expect to be at her side, sipping champagne as she tries on dress after dress — and accessories, of course. Be honest but kind to help her find the dress that will make her look and feel her most beautiful.

Bridesmaid Dress Shopping. Rejoice! As the maid of honor, you will most likely have more of a say in what you'll be wearing on your friend's wedding day. Help her choose a frock that will be comfortable and flattering for you and the other bridesmaids.

DIY Assistance. Depending on how crafty the bride is, she may be undertaking some DIY projects in the days leading up to the wedding, whether that means making favors, hand-lettering envelopes, or creating centerpieces. Volunteer to help her get those projects done with as little stress as possible.

Hosting Bachelorette Party and/or Bridal Shower. Although sometimes the hosting duties for these events fall to other people or are shared by the bridesmaids, oftentimes the responsibility falls to the maid of honor. You may need to be prepared to arrange both, but don't be afraid to turn to other bridesmaids for help if you need it. Be sure to view the lovely selection of bridal shower invitations and bridal shower ideas by Wedding Paper Divas.

Moral Support. The months leading up to a wedding are stressful for any bride, and simply being available to chat can do wonders. Call your friend periodically to check in and make sure that everything's progressing according to plan, and always ask if there's anything you can do to help.

Wedding Day Duties: Pre-Vows The wedding day means go time for the maid of honor, as you step up to help the bride navigate the busy hours leading up to the ceremony. Whether the bride is cool as a cucumber or experiences extreme jitters, it's your job to keep things running smoothly.

Know Your Stuff. Everyone will have questions about the wedding day — when and where are portraits taking place? What time is the cake-cutting? What's the rain plan? It will help the bride immensely if she isn't the only one with the answers.

Stay Within Arm's Reach. When the bride needs something — a tissue, a bobby pin, a glass of champagne — you should be by her side anticipating her request. You should never be out of reach. She'll be comforted by your presence.

Corral the Bridesmaids. Whether there are two bridesmaids or 12, make sure everyone knows where they should be and what they should be doing throughout the day. Enforce Sobriety Control. Champagne can certainly help calm the nerves, but no one should overindulge — at least not before the ceremony.

Run Interference. Everyone wants to see the bride before the wedding — but she may not return the sentiment. If there's anyone who might run the risk of stressing the bride out, do your best to keep them away from her until she's ready to see them. She may also appreciate it if you take control of her phone for the day — but that really depends on personal preference.

Play Timekeeper. The bride shouldn't be worried about the schedule. That's your job!

Witness and Sign the Marriage Certificate. Make it official!

Hold the Bride's Bouquet and the Groom's Ring During the Vows.

After the Vows: Party Time Once the ceremony is over, it’s time to celebrate — but your job isn’t over yet! That said, a lot of the pressure is lifted, and you should enjoy yourself. Just don’t forget to wrap up your final maid of honor duties.

Bustle Up. Help the bride prepare her dress for the reception — and touch up her makeup, if need be.

Toast the Happy Couple. It can be short and sweet, funny, or heartfelt. Just be yourself and say something sweet to the bride and groom!

Be a Dancing Queen. Is the dance floor empty? Encourage guests to shake their booties by setting an example.

Collect the Goods. For those guests who bring gifts to the wedding, ensure that they’re all collected in one place and brought home at the end of the night.

Feed the Bride and Groom. Many couples never taste a bit of food during their receptions, but do your best to make sure the bride gets something in her belly before the toasts begin. Prep her a little plate and give her a few minutes to enjoy it.

Corral the Guests. When it’s time for the cake-cutting, bouquet toss, etc., help corral everyone where they need to be.

Prepare for Takeoff. When the party’s over, help the bride change into her going-away clothes (if she’s changing), and collect her gown and accessories to take home.

BEST MAN As best man, you may think you're just a glorified groomsman, but guess what? You actually have special responsibilities -- you'll be a combination valet and hand-holder as you help the groom come through this nerve-racking experience with flying colors. As leader of the groom's posse, you'll: Serve as the groom's personal aide and adviser before and during the wedding. This can include helping him pack for the honeymoon (the valet part).

Help the groom choose and rent (or buy) wedding formalwear, and coordinate the other groomsmen's rentals. You guys are supposed to match, after all! You may be expected to arrange accommodations for out-of-town groomsmen.

Organize the bachelor party. Don't be shy about enlisting other groomsmen to help you out -- most guys don't mind this duty! Put financial worries out of your mind -- the cost should be split among everyone who attends the bash.

Attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner with the bride and groom and all the other attendants. This is your chance to figure out how you're supposed to walk down that aisle.

Stand beside the groom at the altar and keep the bride's ring until vows are exchanged. Find a safe place for the ring (and triple check that your pockets don't have holes) -- you don't want to fumble around when it's time to whip it out.

Corral the other guys and make sure they're performing their groomsman duties.

Sign the marriage license as a witness after the ceremony, along with the maid of honor.

Give the officiant a sealed envelope with his or her fee (the groom's responsibility) just after the ceremony.

You may be announced with the maid of honor when the reception begins.

Dance with both the honor attendant and the bride during the wedding party dances.

Give the first toast to the bride and groom at the reception. This is your biggest -- and probably most frightening duty. Collect any gift envelopes guests bring to the reception. You may be asked to deposit them in the couple's bank account or at least to keep them until the couple returns from their honeymoon.

Decorate the getaway mobile. Grab the other groomsmen and the bridesmaids for this one.

Drive the couple to the wedding-night hotel or airport after the reception. If you perform this service, you'll need to stay sober throughout the reception. If you have a feeling this may not be possible, hire a limo to drive the couple into the sunset.

The wedding will be over in the blink of an eye, so remember to enjoy yourself at the reception. After all, you're there to celebrate the happiest day of your best friend's life.

BRIDESMAIDS The bridesmaid is an integral part of any wedding, on hand to comfort, console, multitask and spread the joy at all bridal events. Whether it's your first bridesmaid gig or your 50th, here's a cheat sheet of your to- dos.

Offer to help with pre-wedding tasks. Try to be specific when you volunteer: Instead of just, "What can I do?" say, "Would you like me to help you shop for bridesmaid dresses/stuff invitations/pack for the honeymoon?"

Scout out bridesmaid dresses, shoes, jewelry and other wedding accessories. Pay for the entire ensemble. (Break in your shoes before the wedding day—that will minimize slipping, blisters and aching feet.)

Help plan, cohost and pay for the bridal shower and bachelorette party with the other bridesmaids.

If the maid or matron of honor isn't already handling this task, keep a record of all the gifts received at various parties and bridal showers (so that the bride/couple can write thank-you notes); maintain RSVP lists.

Attend the ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. (Keep abreast of all pre-wedding parties, and go to as many as possible.)

Run last-minute errands. On the day of the wedding, be on hand to confirm flower delivery times, meet and greet the ceremony officiant, or satisfy junk food cravings.

Stand in the receiving line at the bride's request.

Serve as auxiliary hostess at the reception by introducing guests, making sure they know where the bar is located, and inviting them to sign the guest book.

Hit the dance floor when the music kicks in. Dance with groomsmen during the formal first-dance sequence. Also, be on the lookout for toe-tapping guests who might need encouragement and/or a dance partner. Give the maid of honor a break by helping to carry the bride's wedding gown train whenever necessary. Bustle the train before dancing begins, and be ready to help fix it if it comes unhooked. Accompany the bride on visits to the restroom, if asked.

Purchase a wedding present. Go in with one or several of the other bridesmaids for more buying power. Sometimes the entire bridesmaid troupe pitches in for one knock-her-socks-off wedding gift.

Be a trooper, no matter how stressful the ordeal becomes. Don't complain about the bridesmaid dress— even if the color is horrendous, it's not your day (but one day, it could be! So treat the bride with the respect you'd like at your wedding). Be gracious and tactful.

Provide plenty of emotional support during the planning and on the wedding day.

GROOMSMEN The groom's close friends and relatives, the groomsmen, support him throughout the wedding planning process. Take your role as groomsman seriously -- after all, you're helping one of your best friends through what can be a very nerve-racking day. Plus, if you act like the levelheaded, responsible guy you are, you'll impress those single bridesmaids. Read on for a rundown of your duties.

Like the bridesmaids, you'll have to pay for your wedding gear. Luckily, you can usually rent a tux for quite a bit less than what the bridesmaid dresses will cost. Be sure to get fitted at the specified store with time to spare -- you don't want to walk down the aisle in floods!

Attending all prewedding festivities (engagement party, couple shower, bachelor party, rehearsal dinner). Perks: Free vittles and drinks.

Helping the best man plan the groom's bachelor party. Perks: Good food, drinks, and perhaps some insights into female anatomy.

You'll conspire with the best man -- and the bridesmaids -- to decorate the honeymoon getaway car in style.

Before the ceremony, you may be asked to usher guests to their seats. At traditional Christian ceremonies, guests of the bride's family sit on the left, and guests of the groom's family sit on the right. At Jewish ceremonies, it's the opposite. When a couple arrives, take the woman's arm and escort her to her seat; her escort will follow you. Always seat the oldest woman first if several guests arrive together. You should arrive at the ceremony site at least 45 minutes early to review special seating requirements.

Be prepared to serve as information central and direct guests to restroom facilities and the reception site.

Purchase a wedding present, perhaps with one of the other groomsmen. You'll have more buying power, and two heads are often better than one when it comes to gift ideas. Sometimes the entire groomsmen gang pitches in for one knock-them-off-their-feet wedding gift.

At the reception, you may be introduced with the bridesmaid you escorted during the recessional. You may also be asked to dance with bridesmaids or single female guests during the evening. FLOWER GIRL The flower girl, usually an adorable little lady aged three to eight, proceeds down the aisle just before the maid of honor, scattering rose petals along the bridal path. She follows the ring bearer (if there is one), and sometimes she will even precede the bride.

RING BEARER The ring bearer, traditionally a small boy aged four to eight, walks down the aisle just before the flower girl (if there is one), carrying a pillow with two rings tied to it, and presents them to the bride and groom at the appropriate time.

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE Here are 15 helpful responsibilities moms can handle with ease. Help bride and groom scout out ceremony and wedding reception sites and ask friends/family for vendor recommendations.

Serve as the main contact for wedding pros (especially if the wedding is taking place in your town and the bride lives elsewhere).

Help bride choose her wedding dress, trousseau, and wedding-night peignoir.

Compile and submit names and addresses of your family and friends to be included on the master guest list.

Talk to the groom's family about whom they want to include on the guest list and manage the difficult task of limiting the number of guests, if necessary.

Help research family or ethnic traditions and heirlooms to incorporate into the ceremony or reception.

Determine what the bride wants you to wear on the big day and find a gorgeous mother of the bride dress. Then, consult with the groom's mom on what you two will be wearing. You'll both feel more comfortable if your elegance is in sync. Start looking for the perfect dress.

Attend (and possibly help organize) the bridal shower and the rehearsal dinner. Escort the bride down the aisle if the bride's father isn't planning on it. (In a Jewish wedding both parents accompany the bride.)

In a Christian wedding, be seated in the first pew directly before the ceremony and leave the chapel first afterward.

Stand in the receiving line to greet guests; traditionally, as reception hostess, the mother of the bride heads up the line.

Sit at the parents' table (if there is one).

Dance with the father of the bride (or other escort) and the groom during the formal first-dance sequence.

Remind the bride often how special she is and that she'll be the most beautiful bride in history.

Let the bride cry on your shoulder anytime, day or night (you know, be a mom).

FATHER OF THE BRIDE Traditionally the father of the bride pays for the majority of the wedding, although the groom’s family are likely to contribute.

Ensuring that wedding cars arrive on time. Getting the bride to the ceremony on time. The father’s main job on the day is to ensure that his daughter arrives at the ceremony in good time.

At church ceremonies the father of the bride escorts his daughter down the aisle before handing her over to her groom. This is a tradition that many fathers and brides choose to keep at civil marriages.

The father of the bride should thank guests for coming, offer some humorous and touching stories about his daughter’s life, and finally welcome his son-in-law in to the family. Then he offers a toast to the bride and groom.

The bride’s parents are the hosts of the wedding breakfast and reception. In a receiving line your mum and dad are traditionally the first two people to greet guests. Afterwards, your dad should mingle, and make sure that everyone has a full glass.

Traditionally last to leave, the father of the bride ensures that everyone leaves the venue safely, all suppliers are paid and happy, and makes sure that any wedding gifts and valuables are removed and stored safely.

MOTHER OF THE GROOM Traditionally, the bride's mother has absorbed most of the pre-wedding responsibilities, while the groom's family assumed more of a back seat. These days, both moms take on significant roles in the planning process, especially if the two families are sharing the financial burden. No matter what the case, here's what's typically expected of the mother of the groom.

When the engagement is announced, call the bride's parents as soon as possible. Express your happiness and invite them over for cocktails or out to dinner. Host a dinner to introduce the bride to the groom's side of the family. Be aware of expenses typically covered by the groom's family and offer financial assistance, if appropriate, to the groom.

Offer to help scout out ceremony and wedding reception venues and ask friends for recommendations for caterers, florists, and vendors. Offer to serve as the main contact for wedding professionals—especially if the wedding is taking place in your town and the groom no longer lives there.

Draw up the guest list for the groom's family after asking the couple how many guests you are able to invite.

Help the groom choose family or ethnic traditions to incorporate into the ceremony or reception.

Attend bridal shower and buy a gift.

Obtain information on where the couple is registered and spread the word to your side of the family.

Consult the bride's mom on her wedding-day outfit. Shop for your own about 4-6 months before the wedding. Keep track of your RSVPs and offer to make calls to obtain last-minute responses for anyone on your side of the list (3-4 weeks before the wedding).

Traditionally, plan and host the rehearsal dinner with the groom's dad (plan 6 months before the wedding; host the day before).

Stand in the receiving line after the bride and groom (along with the groom's father).

Sit at the parents' table (if there is one).

Dance with the groom during the mother-son dance.

FATHER OF THE GROOM Traditional Father of the Groom Duties

Along with the Mother of the Groom, the Father of the Groom will be expected to liaise with the Bride and Groom to see how they wish to go about funding the wedding and offering to pay for certain items along the way.

Standing in the receiving line to greet the guests.

As part of the ‘first dance’, dancing with the Mother of the Groom when invited onto the floor.

Optional Father of the Groom Duties As well as the ‘official’ duties, there is scope for involvement elsewhere prior and during the day dependent upon the wishes of the Bride and Groom. Potential tasks which may be passed across to the Father of the Groom include:

Acting as a source of general advice. Providing assistance when tracking down the perfect wedding venue as well as help in searching out other product and service suppliers when asked.

Helping to organize the guest list by suggesting names (and addresses) from the Groom’s side of the family and passing these onto the Bride & Groom or Mother of the Bride for final decisions.

Keeping track of any responses to the invitations that come your way and informing the Bride and Groom as soon as they arrive.

Potentially making a Father of the Groom speech.

Working alongside the Mother of the Groom and Bride's parents to make sure that everything goes as it should do on the day.

Looking after your son and lending a caring ear when needed.

In conjunction with the Father of the Bride, being one of the last to leave on the night, making sure that everyone gets away all right and that all bills have been settled up.

Being involved in the planning and execution of the day adds that little something extra, and assuming that the Bride and Groom are happy to receive assistance, then the Father of the Groom help should be provided in any way possible.

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