How to Choose Invitations for Your Long Island Wedding

This article is brought to you by Cristina Ashley Beauty, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!

It’s the first impression your guests will get! Here’s how to choose invitations for your Long Island wedding

There’s just something so magical about wedding invitations! The beautiful artwork and calligraphy, the ornate lettering, the thick envelope you get in the mail — they set the tone of your wedding months before the big day.

Choosing your invitations can seem like a big task, especially given all of the options you have. Do you splurge on the fancy stationery and wax envelope seal, or do you go digital and save yourself some money (and future frustration)? Do you do a combination of both? How do you find a vendor that can deliver exactly what you’re looking for?

Brides of Long Island is here to break down how to choose invitations for your Long Island wedding. 

• MORE: BOLI’s Favorite Long Island Invitations and Stationery Vendors

Search Brides of Long Island’s Preferred Vendors

Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendors are some of the most well-reviewed and well-respected wedding pros in the business! And our Preferred Invitation and Stationery Vendors are no exception.

These artists and designers take great pride in your vision, your tastes, and your unique love story. They understand that your invitations are a stylized “sneak peak” of what’s to come. Not only that, but your invitations have to convey a lot of information in a relatively small package. 

These professionals know exactly how to merge style with sustenance. They listen to you and your fiancé and create the kind of invites you’ll want to hold on to forever!

Start your search for invitation vendors here. 

Think about your guests

Now that digital invites have become more and more common, you may be faced with a decision: go digital, or stick with traditional paper?

If you find yourself struggling to decide, one of the biggest things to think about is your guest list demographics. Most brides will invite friends and family that span a wide range of ages and experiences. One of the downfalls of digital invites is the technical aspect — some older adults in your family may not be familiar with QR codes or have trouble typing in long website addresses in order to RSVP.

On the other hand, some of your younger guests may find it much easier to pop onto their phone and check a box rather than keep track of a paper RSVP card, find a stamp, find a mailbox, and remember to do all of those things before a certain date. 

As with all things wedding-related, there’s no right or wrong answer. But it does give you something to think about as you weigh the pros and cons.

Read reviews on BOLI’s Brides-Only Facebook group

It’s where Brides of Long Island was born: our brides-only Facebook group! This private group is one of the best resources to read real, honest reviews of our area’s most talked about wedding professionals. You’ll hear about the experiences of brides just like you, and learn about the vendors that truly made their days magical.

All you need to join our brides-only group is a Facebook profile! Once you’re in, you’ll have a wealth of information at your fingertips. Just search for “invitations” and start your research!

Scroll social media

Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are all good resources for some invitation research. Not only can you gather inspiration for your own invites, but you can scope out vendors doing the work that resonates with you and your fiancé.

Start following some of your favorite vendors to get an idea of their specialties, styles, and how they work!

Ask friends

There’s nothing like a personal recommendation! If you still have your friend’s recent invite hanging on your fridge because it’s just too gorgeous to throw away, ask about them. Who was the designer? Where did they purchase them? Would they recommend them for your invites? You’ll get first-hand intel you can trust.

Again, that’s another reason why the BOLI brides-only Facebook group is so valuable. Think of having almost 30,000 friends who can give you their recs! 

Use a search engine or chat bot

Honestly, a search engine or AI chat bot is probably the last resource to use when looking for an invitation vendor. Businesses can pay money to land at the top of your Google searches, and their placement has nothing to do with the quality of their work OR their real-life reviews. And as easy as ChatGPT is, it can be wrong quite often — it may give you the name of a “top rated” invitation vendor…that’s been out of business for a decade. 

Still, Google and AI are still ways of finding invitation vendors, both on a local and national level. Just be sure to do your due diligence with any information you find. 

These Long Island wedding transportation companies will make sure you show up in style.

From unique and antique to sleek and traditional, these Long Island wedding transportation companies offer everything you’ll need to get to your big day in style. Whether you want to make a grand entrance or simply need a reliable ride between your ceremony and venue, you’ll be in great hands with any of BOLI’s favorite Long Island Wedding transportation companies.

Azure Limousine & Transportation
This expert team prides itself on outstanding service. From their upscale pristine fleet to their 1947 Rolls Royce, Azure has something for every bride. Check out their vehicles at their indoor showroom in St. James. 

All Star Limousine
With over 40 years experience, All Star Limousine has one of the largest and most modern luxury fleets of limousines and party buses. Their goal is to exceed your transportation expectations.

• MORE: BOLI’s Favorite Wedding Planners

M&V Limousines Ltd.
Founded 30 years ago with one white Rolls Royce, M&V Limousine Ltd. now offers antiques, exotic cars, limos, party and shuttle buses, and antique trolleys. They have something for every bride’s transportation needs with M&V, where they strive to make your day extra special.

Mark of Elegance Limousine Service
Mark of Elegance has over 35 years experience in anticipating – and meeting – the needs of all of their brides. They only offer wedding transportation services, so you won’t be disappointed with their fleet of luxury vehicles.

• MORE: BOLI’s Favorite Long Island Florists

Coachman Luxury Transport
Coachman Luxury Transport has vehicles for every bride. Their shuttles are a great option for guest transportation, and they pride themselves on offering seamless service so your wedding day is as perfect as possible.

Sir Oliver Limousine
Expect to be treated like royalty at Sir Oliver Limousine. From your first call to your return home, Sir Oliver offers clean, beautiful vehicles as well as impeccable and timely service. Once you book with Sir Oliver, you can sit back and relax knowing that you’ll have reliable transportation on your special day.

The Caddy Daddy
If you’re looking to rent a classic Cadillac for your engagement or wedding photos, Justin at The Caddy Daddy is your guy. He rents out his 1955 Cadillac for brides and grooms, bringing their vision to life with something classic, bold and unforgettable. His caddy isn’t just a prop, it’s an experience.

• MORE: How Ring Leader Completely Transforms Your Wedding Planning

No matter what Long Island wedding transportation company you choose, you can rest assured that you’ll be treated like royalty on your wedding day. 

And don’t forget your guests! All of these Long Island wedding transportation companies can shuttle your guests to and from your wedding venues – in a safe and timely manner.

Flowers add beauty and personality to your wedding. Here’s what to expect when hiring a Long Island florist.

You may be one of the brides of Long Island who can name each flower they want in a centerpiece. Or, you may be the kind that never even thought about flowers until someone mentioned bouquets. Either way, it’s likely that you’ll want to hire a florist to supply a few buds and blooms for your big day.

So what should you expect when meeting with a Long Island florist for the first time? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start your search.

• MORE: BOLI’s Favorite Long Island Wedding Florists

 

When should you hire a florist?

As you probably know by now, Long Island wedding vendors can book up fast — especially if they’re established and popular. 

Still, you’ll need to have at least a ballpark figure of your wedding day numbers. You don’t want to purchase centerpieces for 13 tables but only need 9 when the day comes! 

Once you’ve booked your venue and made your guest list, start searching for your florist. A good rule of thumb is around 8-10 months before the big day, so that your florist has time to put everything together. 

 

The consultation

Like most vendors, you’ll want to meet one-on-one with your potential florist to discuss your vision, and most importantly, your budget. After you’ve done a bit of research and pinpoint the florist you want to work with, you’ll schedule a consult with them to nail down the details. 

You won’t necessarily need to know the difference between peonies and petunias when you meet with a florist, but you should have at least a general idea of what you want — whether that’s specific colors or specific shapes and silhouettes.

You should also have an idea of what exactly you’ll need. 12 grand bridesmaids bouquets that cascade to the floor, or 12 single flowers to stay understated and delicate? 10 centerpieces for each table that tower to the ceiling, or something that’s more low profile? 

Most importantly, have an idea of your budget. What you can reasonably spend will determine a lot about your bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnières, and other floral arrangements.   

Managing expectations

BOLI Preferred Vendors are some of the best Long Island florists in the business! But even the best florist can’t change the seasons or bring the costs of rare flowers down. 

If you have a super specific vision of your bridal bouquet, your chuppah flowers, or any other floral element of your day, keep this in mind — not all flowers are in season all year long.

For example, if you picture big, beautiful sunflowers in your centerpieces, but you chose a February wedding date, you’ll need to prepare for one of two scenarios: either your sunflowers are going to cost big bucks, or you’ll need to give up the sunflowers completely and go with another in-season choice. 

Budget is another big topic. As with most things surrounding weddings, flowers aren’t exactly cheap. There are ways to achieve a certain looks without completely breaking the bank, but the reality is a cascade or waterfall bouquet is going to be more expensive than a small, hand-tied bouquet.

Your wedding day

Several weeks or days before your wedding, your florist will reach out to you and confirm plans. They’ll solidify the entirety of your order, from bouquets to boutonnières and everything in between. They’ll also discuss what time they plan on dropping everything off at your venue, and if it’s in your contract, what time they’ll return to pick items back up. 

Before that discussion happens, decide who your “florist point person” will be — a bridesmaid, your future mother-in-law, or a wedding planner are all great options. That person will be in charge of remaining in contact with your florist when they’re in route, and meeting them at the venue to ensure your flowers look their best. 

• MORE: Learn more about BOLI’s favorite Long Island florists 

A wedding officiant shapes the tone, story and flow of your ceremony, and understanding their process helps couples start the day with clarity and confidence.

A wedding ceremony may last only a short time, but the work that goes into creating it is anything but small. Professional wedding officiants spend hours getting to know couples, learning their story and crafting words that feel personal, intentional and true to who they are. They also manage cues, timing, nerves and legal responsibilities — all before the reception even begins.

To help couples understand what really happens behind the scenes, we spoke with Joe Iadanza, of BOLI Preferred Vendor Long Island Wedding Officiants, who shared how officiants blend storytelling, preparation and coordination to create ceremonies that feel effortless in the moment and unforgettable in memory.

Personalized Storytelling

A meaningful ceremony doesn’t happen by accident, it’s crafted through care, curiosity and a deep understanding of the couple. “What I want couples to know is that I really do care about them and want to shine a light on what’s beautiful about them,” says Joe. 

After learning their story, he blends those details with the experience of officiating more than a thousand weddings, shaping a moment that feels authentic not only to the couple, but to everyone gathered to support them. The goal is to create a ceremony that reflects who they are, honors the people they love and sets the tone for the rest of the day.

• MORE: BOLI’s Favorite Long Island Wedding Officiants

Getting to Know You

Before any ceremony can feel truly personal, an officiant needs to understand who the couple is at their core — their values, their humor, their history and the way they move through the world together. 

“It’s important to make sure the ceremony feels like the couple,” says Joe. “Ultimately, it needs to represent who each person is in the relationship and all of the things they value and hope and dream.” 

His process begins with a short introductory call so couples can get a sense of his style, followed by a formal interview where he spends about an hour walking through ceremony structure, preferred language, faith representation and the journey they’ve shared. Joe approaches these conversations with what he calls “openness and unconditional love,” adding, “I want them to feel as comfortable as possible so I can hear the real truths of their love story.” 

Instead of questionnaires, he relies on real conversation — watching their reactions, listening closely and noticing the small human details that reveal what’s special about them. “I’m not looking for perfection. I want it to be human,” he says. 

From there, he builds a draft that weaves together sacredness, humor, storytelling and tradition, always searching for the thread that ties everything together. Once the draft is complete, the process becomes fully collaborative, with no limit on revisions. “It’s not done until everyone loves it,” Joe says, because the ceremony should feel unmistakably, authentically theirs.

• MORE: 14 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Officiant

Behind the Scenes Magic

Long before the ceremony begins, officiants are quietly managing details couples rarely see — adjusting for weather, coordinating with vendors and making sure every moment unfolds smoothly. Joe explains that flexibility is essential: “Just this weekend there was a strong possibility of rain right at ceremony time. I can easily pivot locations and adjust the ceremony so that if the rain starts, I know how to wrap things up without panicking or losing the beauty of the moment.” 

He’s often helping physically, too. “Last weekend we moved inside, then outside again in the span of a half hour — and I wasn’t just watching. I was out there moving chairs with the staff, DJs and photographers because we want to make the moment as perfect as humanly possible.” 

Once he arrives, Joe sets up his own PA and mic, checks in with the maître d’, DJ, musicians and photo/video teams, and reviews cues and timing so everyone is aligned. During the ceremony, he instinctively adjusts the couple’s position for better lighting, shifts out of the photographer’s shot, steadies a nervous bride, ensures the best man has the rings and handles unexpected moments (even fainting guests on a 100‑degree day!) As Joe puts it, “A couple’s uncle or best friend isn’t going to know what to do with all of that. But we do, because we love it and we do it every day.”

The Legal Stuff

When it comes to the legal side of a wedding, officiants carry responsibilities couples often don’t realize. Joe explains, “First and foremost, it’s the officiant’s job to be legal in what they do.” Online ordinations have never been recognized on Long Island, so couples should confirm their officiant is properly ordained or has obtained a single‑use permit from Town Hall. 

Beyond performing a legally binding ceremony, officiants execute the marriage license, ensure all signatures and witnesses are correct and return it to the same town or city hall where it was issued — often with extra care. Joe says his team sends licenses back via certified mail with tracking and provides couples with scans and follow‑up information so they can begin any name or status changes. Requirements for obtaining the license vary: New York City needs only an ID, while the rest of New York State requires a birth or naturalization certificate, plus certified translations if documents are in another language. Couples who have been previously married or widowed may need additional paperwork. Licenses are valid for 60 days and must be present at the ceremony unless the couple is already legally married. A professional officiant ensures every step is handled correctly so couples never have to worry about the fine print.

• MORE: What to Expect When Hiring Your Wedding Photographer

A wedding ceremony is the emotional heart of the day, and the officiant is the person who brings that moment to life through storytelling, preparation, coordination and legal expertise. Joe’s approach shows how much care goes into making a ceremony feel personal, seamless and grounded. When couples understand the depth of that work, they can relax into the moment, trust the process and fully experience the joy of beginning their marriage surrounded by the people who love them.

 

Being a Bride of Long Island is free! But there are ways to get the most out of your membership, like joining the BOLI Premium Membership program

Here at Brides of Long Island, we welcome all brides into our community. Joining our group has been and always will be free! All that’s required is an active Facebook profile and a “yes” to your future fiancé.

For brides that want to take it a step further — and who want to save big bucks on their wedding days — Brides of Long Island is proud to offer our Premium Membership program! Just like our Facebook group, BOLI Premium Membership is available for anyone who’s engaged and planning a wedding on Long Island.

• MORE: These are BOLI’s favorite Long Island wedding pros

What is BOLI Premium Membership?

For a small, one-time fee of $69, BOLI Premium Members are entitled to tons of exclusive discounts, insider perks, and giveaways! This includes 20% off tickets and early bird access to BOLI’s annual Summer Soirée, amazing promotions from our Preferred Vendors, and heavy discounts from Long Island’s best wedding professionals.

What kind of discounts can I get as a BOLI Premium Member?

There are discounts for almost every single vendor category on our roster — from Bridal Beauty Prep and Photography to Venues and Invitations. Here are just a few of the discounts you’ll find!

• 10% off services at 4 Ever Young Cosmetic Injectables
• $100 off booking session fee! (Normally $450) and 10% discount on collection of your choice with Anne-Marie Kristin Photography 
• $250 towards any new booking with Silverfox Studios
• 10% off total services with Genie Artistry
• $500 credit towards your wedding at The Crescent Beach Club

And that just scratches the surface!

When should I become a BOLI Premium Member?

You can become a BOLI Premium Member at any point before your wedding! But the absolute best time to join is at the beginning of your wedding planning process. That way you can scan all of the available offers, meet with vendors that catch your eye, and save tons in your wedding budget before the big day.

How do I redeem a BOLI Premium Membership offer?

Redeeming a BOLI Premium Membership offer is simple! Once you join, you’ll be mailed a Premium Membership card. When you meet with a vendor and are ready to book, present your BOLI Premium Membership card. Your vendor will also have an active list of all Premium Members, so if you forget your card, they can look up your information on our site.

Are there any restrictions to BOLI Premium Membership?

There are a few things to keep in mind about our BOLI Premium Membership offers:

• They can’t be combined with any other offer or discount.
• Any offer must be used by your wedding date.
• Offers are limited to one use per membership.
• Offers are non-transferable (meaning you can’t gift it to your bestie who’s also getting married).
• They’re non-refundable.
• They’re available for new bookings only and can’t be applied to any existing contracts.
• Offers are subject to vendor availability. 

How do I become a BOLI Premium Member?

Becoming a BOLI Premium Member is the easiest part of wedding planning (trust us on that one!) Just click here, scroll down, and tap “Become a Premium BOLI.”

Yep, that’s it! You’re well on your way to getting your dream wedding day with some room in the budget for extras. 

• MORE: Ring Leader makes wedding planning easy

“Getting Ready” spaces are growing in popularity. Should you consider one for your wedding day?

Your married friends may tell you that your morning will feel like a whirlwind. When you think about it, it makes sense: you’ll be surrounded by your bridal party, your hair and makeup team, your photographers, all rushing around to get glammed and prepare for your big day.

But Brides of Long Island wants to let you in on a little secret. It doesn’t have to feel that way. 

More and more brides are turning to “getting ready” spaces for their wedding morning preparations. These dedicated locations are created especially for brides-to-be, their friends, their families, and their vendor teams. Unlike cramped hotel suites with limited resources, or bridal suites that you may not be able to access until later in the day, getting ready spaces give you plenty of room — and plenty of time — to relax and celebrate those precious hours before your “I do’s.”

• MORE: Check out BOLI’s favorite Getting Ready Locations!

Why Getting Ready spaces are growing in popularity

We tapped some of BOLI’s Preferred Vendors in our newest vendor category — Getting Ready Locations — for their thoughts on why getting ready spaces have become so popular. 

“Many brides are realizing that the morning of the wedding should be just as special as the rest of the day,” said Linda from The Beauty Lounge LI.

“A get-ready space gives the bride something that’s sometimes hard to find on a wedding morning: time,” said Rachel with Racine Salon & Spa, Top Floor. “Time to sit down, have something to eat, laugh with her friends, take pictures and actually enjoy what’s happening.”

“Brides can spend six to eight hours getting ready before the ceremony, surrounded by their closest friends and family, so they’re putting more thought into choosing a space where they can actually enjoy that time together,” echoed Melanie with Coastal Creative Studios. “It’s also an added bonus if the space is aesthetic since so many of the candid and meaningful moments of the day are photographed there.”

“Getting ready has become an important part of the wedding-day experience,” said Victoria with The House of Makeup. “Brides want a beautiful, comfortable space where they can relax, spend time with their bridal party, and enjoy the excitement of the morning. A dedicated space also creates a much more polished setting for those special getting-ready photos!”

Why should you consider a getting ready space?

In addition to more time and a great backdrop for photos, a getting ready space can help you stay calm and on schedule. “The right getting ready space can help the entire wedding day run more smoothly,” Melanie explained. “Whenever possible, photographers try to complete the majority of portraits before the ceremony, including the first look, couple, wedding party and family photos. Once the ceremony ends, everything moves very quickly into cocktail hour and the reception.”

“A dedicated getting-ready space allows the bride to start her day feeling relaxed, organized, and pampered. It gives the beauty team plenty of room to work, and keeps the bridal party together,” said Victoria. “It creates a calm environment before the excitement of the ceremony begins!” 

“There’s something very special about having the entire bridal party together in one place,” added Rachel. “Nobody is running from room to room looking for a curling iron or trying to figure out where they’re supposed to be.”

Linda from The Beauty Lounge agreed. “Brides should consider a getting ready space so that the mood is set for the day,” she said.

What can you expect when booking a getting ready space?

Consider your getting ready space your home-away-from-home (at least for those first few hours)! “A dedicated getting ready space becomes your home base for the first half of the wedding day,” said Melanie. “Your wedding party, family, hair and makeup team, photographer and videographer all have room to comfortably settle in and work, while you get to enjoy breakfast, music and time together without feeling crowded or rushed. We want those first several hours to feel like part of the celebration, not just the time you spend waiting for the wedding to begin.”

“Brides can expect to bring their dress and bridal party dresses to the getting ready space to get ready in,” said Linda. “They can expect an atmosphere dedicated to the morning of the wedding.” 

Rachel echoed the sentiment. “It’s a private space where your wedding party can settle in and make themselves at home,” she said.

“Brides can expect a comfortable, organized, and fun environment where they can enjoy time with their favorite people while getting professionally glammed,” added Victoria.”

What BOLI’s Preferred getting ready locations offer

As you might expect, BOLI’s favorite getting ready spaces offer comfort, convenience, beautiful surroundings, and top notch professionals ready to make your wedding morning magical. 

“We want brides to bring in breakfast or lunch, put on their music, have their photographer come upstairs and make the space their own,” said Rachel. “For me, Top Floor is really about taking the chaos out of getting ready without taking away the fun. We take care of the beauty and the details so the bride can be present for the morning.”

“The House of Makeup’s Sayville studio provides a private, elevated space for brides and their bridal parties to get ready and enjoy professional hair and makeup services,” explained Victoria. “Our studio is decorated bright, chic, and romantic for Bridal mornings. We are right off of Main Street just steps from coffees, pastries, and more so the morning feels very intentional! Private studio rentals are available, and we also offer touch-up services to keep the bride looking her best throughout the celebration!”

“At Coastal Creative Studios, we designed the space around both the experience of the wedding morning and everything that needs to happen during it,” said Melanie. “We have two private suites, dedicated hair and makeup stations, a kitchen, lounge areas and plenty of room for the wedding party, family and vendors. For photos, we have beautiful natural light inside, a private garden outside and Huntington Harbor directly across the street, so couples can get a variety of indoor and outdoor portraits without having to travel to another location.”

“The Beauty Lounge LI offers perfect lighting, set-up stations for hair and makeup services, a bridal attendant who serves and cleans up after everyone, and steaming for all dresses for the bridal party and the bride,” said Linda. “The bridal attendant sets up all detail shot items for the bride and helps her get dressed. We personalize everyone’s names on their champagne glasses. A beautifully decorated space meant to feel luxurious and very bridal. The morning of the wedding will be just as important as the rest of the day.”

Ready to book your getting ready space? Check out BOLI’s favorite locations here!

Opus Steakhouse is elevating the wedding experience with a brand‑new bridal suite and the option to host evening weddings by reserving the entire restaurant. Their October 4 showcase gives brides an exclusive first look.

If you’ve ever dreamed of an intimate, one‑of‑a‑kind wedding venue, Opus Steakhouse, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, should be at the top of your list. With its brand‑new bridal suite and the ability to rent the entire restaurant for your celebration, Opus is redefining what a restaurant‑based wedding can look like.

Located in the heart of Jericho, Opus Steakhouse is the vision of owner Anthony Scotto, who transformed a historic mansion into a stunning blend of modern luxury and timeless architectural charm. “When I renovated this property, I wanted it to feel unlike anything else on Long Island,” Scotto says. “A place where couples could celebrate in a space that feels both grand and deeply personal.” The result is a venue that offers dramatic interiors, a lush garden and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere perfect for your wedding day.

A New Era of Wedding Flexibility

When Opus first began hosting weddings, couples were limited to daytime celebrations because the restaurant opened for dinner service each evening. “We did host smaller weddings at night using our air wall to divide the dining room,” explains Vicki Colacicco, director of marketing. “But the restaurant remained open, so larger evening weddings weren’t possible.”

That’s all changed.

“Couples asked, and we listened,” Colacicco says. “We now offer full‑restaurant buyouts, giving brides and grooms the ability to take over the entire space for their wedding.” This new option allows couples to arrive earlier in the day, get ready onsite, take photos throughout the property and celebrate on a timeline that feels natural and relaxed.

Scotto adds, “Weddings deserve breathing room. When couples rent the full restaurant, they get Opus at its best — every room, every garden, every detail dedicated entirely to them.”

A Bridal Suite Designed for Comfort and Celebration

One of the most exciting additions is Opus Steakhouse’s new bridal suite — a spacious, serene retreat designed for getting ready, relaxing and enjoying quiet moments before the celebration begins. With elegant furnishings, natural light and thoughtful amenities, it’s the perfect place to start your day.

From the suite, couples can move seamlessly into Opus’s ceremony garden, a tranquil outdoor space ideal for exchanging vows. Inside, the dining room transforms into a lively reception setting, complete with floor‑to‑ceiling glass doors that open to the gardens for an effortless indoor‑outdoor flow.

A Culinary Experience Your Guests Will Remember
Food is at the heart of every celebration at Opus Steakhouse. Couples can expect a menu filled with signature steakhouse and seafood dishes from Scotto’s acclaimed restaurants. Whether you choose an elegant plated dinner or a curated cocktail‑hour menu featuring options like a sushi bar, your guests will enjoy a dining experience they’ll rave about long after the wedding day.

Tour the Bridal Suite at the October 4 Wedding Showcase
Brides can be among the first to explore the new bridal suite at Opus Steakhouse’s wedding showcase on October 4. It’s the perfect opportunity to tour the property, sample menu favorites, meet the team and learn more about how you can make the entire restaurant yours for the day. Click here to learn more and register for the showcase.

Scotto also owns several other BOLI Preferred Venues, including Blackstone Steakhouse, Insignia, Rare650, One10 and The Halston.

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, we spoke with Kimberly about why she chose BOLI Preferred Vendor Chateau at Coindre Hall as her venue and what special touches made the day perfect.

Some brides prefer a shorter engagement, while others love a long runway. For BOLI Kimberly, landing right in the middle turned out to be the sweet spot. Thanks to thoughtful, intentional planning with her husband Alex, she felt the entire day flowed so smoothly that she could truly savor every moment.

A Chance Meeting

Kimberly and Alex met on a dating app, but the truth is that they had been orbiting each other for years. She grew up in Dix Hills, he grew up in Commack, and later they both landed in Ithaca for college — she at Ithaca College, he at Cornell University. They shared the same neighborhoods, the same haunts, even the same childhood trick‑or‑treat routes without ever crossing paths. “It’s crazy to think how close we were all those years,” she says. 

It wasn’t until they matched on Tinder in late 2018 that they finally had the chance to meet, choosing a cozy brunch spot in Huntington for their first date — the same town where they’d eventually say “I do.” It was a full‑circle moment she still treasures. 

After years of dating, moving in together and building a life in Manhattan, Alex proposed during the first night of a cruise that sailed out of New York City. In the ship’s lush outdoor “Central Park,” surrounded by greenery and the unexpected soundtrack of a Latin guitarist, Alex got down on one knee. “It wasn’t planned, but it was so romantic,” Kimberly says. They spent the rest of the trip celebrating their engagement, a perfect beginning to the next chapter of their story.

• MORE: 14 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Officiant

Planning Pro

After getting engaged in September 2024, Kimberly and Alex dove into planning almost immediately. They toured six Long Island locations, hoping to find something with history, water views and a layout that felt intentional rather than cookie‑cutter. 

“We were pretty open about where on Long Island,” Kimberly says, “but we knew we wanted something with character.” Chateau at Coindre Hall, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, quickly rose to the top. Its mansion-style layout with separate dining and dancing rooms felt perfect for their guests’ comfort. “We’d been to weddings where family members had to escape the noise,” she explains. “At Coindre, people could dance all night or sit and talk without shouting.” The venue’s one‑wedding‑per‑day policy, its Huntington location and its pricing sealed the deal. “It checked every box,” Kimberly says. “And honestly, the fact that the cake was included — and from Rolling Pin Bakery — was such a nice bonus.”

Once the venue and date were set for June 20, 2026, Kimberly and Alex took advantage of their longer engagement and chose vendors with intention. The first call they made was to Rev. Joe Iadanza of Long Island Wedding Officiants, a BOLI Preferred Vendor. “We wanted a ceremony that felt personal and meaningful,” Kimberly says. “Not just something standard. Rev. Joe’s style really resonated with us.” 

Next came photography and videography, which Kimberly describes as “one of the most important parts of the whole day.” They met Tino Photography, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, at a venue showcase and immediately connected with Tino and Erica. “They’re a family‑owned business, and we just hit it off,” she says. When Tino Photography later reached out with a package that included ten hours of coverage of photo and video, Kimberly said their decision became obvious. “My gut was like, this is it. This is who we’re supposed to work with.” They booked early in 2025 and never looked back. “We were so happy with them. It really felt meant to be.”

• MORE: Tino Photography Brings a Wealth of Unique Experience to Your Wedding Day

A Fairytale Wedding

Kimberly and Alex leaned into Coindre Hall’s castle‑like charm, choosing details that felt “a little fairy‑tale, a little historic,” without committing to a formal theme. 

One of her favorite personal touches was a whimsical one — tiny decorative birds she inherited and asked the banquet manager to tuck throughout the mansion. “We told them, ‘Just place them wherever you think is fun,’” she laughs. “And then during the ceremony, there were actual birds singing outside. It felt like the universe was in on it.” 

On the reception mantel, they displayed their engagement photo flanked by each set of parents’ wedding portraits — a sentimental tribute to the families joining together. “It was simple, but it meant so much to us,” Kimberly says. 

Rev. Joe Iadanza also made a lasting impact. Through a custom ceremony workshop, he helped them craft something deeply personal. “It was exactly what we wanted,” she says, adding that guests told her afterward they were moved to tears.

The day itself was filled with moments Kimberly will never forget, from their waterfront first look outside of Coastal Creative Studios, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, to the ceremony she describes as “surreal in the best way.” Walking down the aisle to instrumental music when she saw Alex already teary‑eyed. “It was everything I’d been planning for so long,” she says. 

And once the reception began, the joy didn’t stop. Their photographer and cinematographer impressed them with both artistry and speed. “We got our photos the following week!” she says. Even more meaningful was their sensitivity to Kimberly’s mother’s vision disability. “They made sure she always knew where the camera was. The photos with my mom are some of my favorites ever.” Coindre Hall’s staff also delivered moments of kindness, like preparing a full cocktail‑hour plate for her mother without anyone asking. 

And their DJ from Long Island Sound, a BOLI Preferred Vendor kept the energy sky‑high all night. “He exceeded every expectation,” she says. Kimberly says each vendor contributed something extraordinary. “In their own way, every single one did something amazing.”

• MORE: 5 Reasons to Have a Long Engagement

Trust Your Instincts

Kimberly says the Brides of Long Island Facebook group became one of her most valuable planning tools. “I did so many searches,” she says, adding that other brides’ questions often answered things she hadn’t even thought of yet, from tipping etiquette to vendor comparisons. “It really steered me toward the vendors I ended up booking,” she says. 

Her advice for future brides is simple: take your time and trust your instincts. “It’s your wedding — don’t rush or compromise on what you really want,” she says. Kimberly believes her longer engagement gave her space to plan intentionally and enjoy the day fully. “Because I put so much effort into every detail, I felt like I could slow down and take it all in,” she says. “Let yourself linger in the moments. It’s your day — enjoy it.”

Vendors:
Venue: Chateau at Coindre Hall, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photo/Video: Tino Photography, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: LI Sound DJ Entertainment, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Getting Ready Space: Coastal Creative Studios, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Jazz Trio: Edward Daniels Ensembles
Florist: Black Dahlia
Officiant: Rev. Joe Iadanza, Long Island Wedding Officiants, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Hair/Makeup: Jesella Beauty
Dress: Bridal Suite of Bay Shore, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Alterations: Bridal Alterations by Kirstyn, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Rolling Pin Bakery
Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse

Here’s what all‑inclusive wedding packages typically include, plus the pros, cons and key questions to ask before deciding.

Once you find your venue and secure your wedding date, it may suddenly feel like the race is on to book the rest of your vendors. Between photographers, DJs, florists, décor teams and more, the search can get overwhelming fast — especially if you’re not sure where to begin. (Hint: Brides of Long Island’s preferred vendors are always a great place to start.) 

That’s why some Long Island venues offer all‑inclusive wedding packages designed to streamline the planning process and take a few decisions off your plate. These packages can cover everything from entertainment and photography to floral arrangements, décor and cake, giving you a ready‑made team that already knows the venue inside and out. 

But how do you know if it’s the right choice for your wedding? Before you commit, it’s important to understand the pros and cons so you can decide whether an all‑inclusive package aligns with your vision, your priorities and your wedding‑day experience.

• MORE: How to find a Long Island Wedding Venue

What Is an All-Inclusive Wedding Package?

An all‑inclusive wedding package is a bundled set of services that your venue provides through its own partnered vendors. Instead of booking each vendor separately, the venue offers a pre‑selected team that handles major parts of your wedding day under one contract. These packages are meant to simplify planning and give you a coordinated group of professionals who already work together regularly.

They shouldn’t be confused with a venue’s preferred vendor list (like BOLI’s Preferred Vendors). These are vendors that the venue recommends based on quality, reliability and past experience, but you choose who to hire. With preferred vendors, you have full freedom to compare styles, pricing and personalities before making your decision.

On the other hand, all‑inclusive packages come with vendors already selected for you. You’re opting into a set team chosen by the venue, which can streamline planning but may limit your choices depending on the package.

Because these packages are built around a set team, most all‑inclusive wedding packages include a DJ or entertainment, floral arrangements, a wedding cake and photography.

• MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

Pros of Choosing an All-Inclusive Wedding Package

There are some definite advantages to choosing an all-inclusive wedding package:

• Less Vendor Searching — One of the biggest perks is convenience. You can skip hours of scrolling, emailing and comparing ( though it’s still smart to do your homework and make sure that the vendors in the package align with your vision).

• Vendors Who Already Know the Venue — The professionals included in all‑inclusive packages typically work at the venue often, which means they know the layout, lighting, timing and staff. That familiarity can make your wedding day run more smoothly, with fewer surprises and a team that already understands how to bring out the best in the space.

• Bundled Services Can Be More Streamlined — When major services are bundled together, communication and coordination tend to be easier. Your vendors may already have established workflows with one another, which can simplify planning and reduce the number of moving parts you need to manage.

• Potential Cost Efficiency — While every venue is different, some couples find that bundling services into one package offers better overall value than booking each vendor individually. Packages can sometimes include perks or add‑ons that would cost more if purchased separately.

Cons of Choosing an All‑Inclusive Wedding Package

All-inclusive packages may make planning a little easier, but they come with a few disadvantages:

• Limited Vendor Choices — Many all‑inclusive packages only offer one option per category, which means you may not get to compare different photographers, DJs, florists or bakers. If you’re someone who loves exploring styles or wants a very specific vibe, the lack of variety can feel restrictive.

• Less Personalization — Because the vendors are pre‑selected and the services are bundled, some couples feel the experience is less tailored to their vision. You’re working within the structure of the package, which may not leave room for unique touches or specialized services you’d get from hand‑picked vendors.

• Basic Package Levels — Many all‑inclusive packages start with a “standard” tier. That often means a single photographer (no second shooter), a DJ only for the reception (no MC or ceremony music) and simple centerpieces without bouquets or boutonnieres. If you want more coverage, more décor or more customization, you’ll likely need to pay for upgrades.

• Upgrades Add Up — While the base package may cover the essentials, enhancements like photo books, additional floral pieces, extended entertainment or specialty décor can increase your overall cost. Couples who want a more elevated or detailed experience may find themselves adding multiple upgrades to get the look and feel they want.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing an All‑Inclusive Package

To help you decide whether an all-inclusive wedding package is the right choice for you, here are the questions you should ask:

Can I meet or speak with the vendors included in the package?
Even if the vendors are pre‑selected, you should still feel comfortable with their style, personality and communication. Ask whether you can schedule consultations before committing.

What exactly is included? What counts as an upgrade? 

Get a detailed list of what’s covered in the base package. Then ask for a breakdown of common upgrades (extra photography hours, bouquets, MC services, etc.) so you know what additional costs might look like.

Do I have any flexibility to swap vendors or services? 

Some venues allow substitutions or credits if you prefer to bring in your own vendor for a specific category. Others don’t. Clarifying this upfront helps avoid surprises.

How many options do I get for each vendor category? 

If the package only includes one photographer or one florist, make sure their work aligns with your vision. If there are multiple options, ask to see portfolios or sample work.

Are there style limitations I should be aware of? 

Some package florists or photographers specialize in certain aesthetics. If you’re dreaming of something very specific, confirm the included vendors can deliver it.

How does communication work once I book the package? 

Will you coordinate directly with each vendor, or does the venue handle communication? Knowing who your point of contact is can make planning much smoother.

What happens if a vendor becomes unavailable? 

Life happens. Ask about backup plans or replacement vendors so you know how the venue handles unexpected changes.

• MORE: How Ring Leader Completely Transforms Your Wedding Planning

So, should you choose an all-inclusive package for your wedding? It really depends on how you like to plan. If you want a streamlined experience with vendors who already know your venue and work well together, an all‑inclusive package can make the process feel much easier. 

But if having more choices, more customization or more control over each vendor matters to you, booking your own team may be the better fit. Review what’s included, understand potential upgrades and ask the questions that matter most — and remember, Brides of Long Island’s preferred vendors are always here to help you build a wedding day that feels uniquely yours.

Weddings can get expensive, but some costs may not be worth it. Here are a few expenses you can skip without sacrificing the celebration.

Planning a wedding is stressful enough, and sticking to a budget can make the process feel even more overwhelming. 

But the truth is, not every tradition or trend is worth the price tag. Many couples find that cutting a few non‑essential expenses frees up money for the parts of the day that actually matter to them.

If you’re looking for smart ways to save without sacrificing style, joy, or guest experience, here are 11 wedding expenses you can skip.

Wedding Favors

Let’s face it, unless it’s something truly unique or genuinely useful, most favors get left behind or tossed. Save the money and put it toward something guests will actually enjoy, like a fun exit station or entertainment.

Welcome Bags

These used to feel like a fun extra, but most guests don’t need them – especially when hotels already provide water, snacks and toiletries. Skip the cost (and the time it takes to assemble them).

• MORE: 7 Ways to Save For Your Wedding

Programs

Sure, it’s nice to list your bridal party or share a fun detail about yourselves, but most guests barely glance at programs. They become another throwaway item you don’t need to spend money on.

Save the Dates

This one is tricky because it’s fun to use those engagement photos, but save‑the‑dates aren’t essential unless your wedding is more than a year away. If not, skip them or send a cute Canva email instead.

Menus

Let the venue handle menus. They usually display or announce meal options anyway! And if you’re wondering whether every guest needs one…they don’t. People can easily share.

Crazy Seating Charts

Unique seating charts are fun and pretty, but they’re often expensive and unnecessary. Your venue can put out simple place cards that tell guests exactly where to sit.

Even better? Use Ring Leader to text your guests their seat assignments! 

• MORE: 15 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Gown

Ceremony Tossers

Traditionally rice was tossed, then bubbles became the trend, but you can skip all of it. Let guests enjoy the moment as you walk out and head straight to cocktail hour without the extra cost or cleanup.

Extra Signage
Welcome signs and bar signs are cute, but not essential. Unless you’re super crafty and want a DIY project, your venue and staff can guide guests.

Bathroom Baskets
Venues often provide the basics — mints, mouthwash, lotion, and sanitary items — so you don’t need to buy extras.

Photo Booth Props

If you’re already renting a photo booth, check what your vendor includes. Most come fully stocked with fun signs, hats and digital props, so you don’t need to buy anything additional (unless you really want those cardboard cutouts of Star Wars characters).

Bridal Party Gifts

Bridal party gifts are a sweet gesture, but they don’t need to be elaborate or expensive. A heartfelt note or covering their attire or hair and makeup is enough.

• MORE: 9 Wedding DIY Ideas That Any BOLI Can Tackle

The reality is that all of these things are nice to have, and if you truly have your heart set on any of them, they’re absolutely worth the money. But if you don’t care either way, they’re easy expenses to skip so you can splurge on the parts of your wedding that matter most to you.