In Brides of Long Island’s “Am I a Bridezilla?” the BOLI team weighs in on an anonymous submission asking that dreaded question. What do you think?
Dear BOLI,
My whole family is mad at me over my rehearsal dinner plans, and I need you to tell me if I’m being a bridezilla or not.
A wedding is supposed to be about the bride and groom, but it seems like every event is for other people. We’re having a huge reception with all this delicious food, and over and over again I keep hearing “you’re not going to have time to eat, you have to take pictures.” We got an amazing DJ and really stressed about picking a good playlist, and again I keep hearing “you probably won’t dance that much, you’ll be busy going around to all the tables.” It sounds like everyone is going to have a good time except for my fiancé and me.
Because this upset me, I decided to make our rehearsal dinner private between me and my fiancé. We’re going out to one of our favorite restaurants after our rehearsal, and everyone else can be responsible for their own meals the night before the wedding.
My mom and dad are furious at me for this. They say it’s very rude to not have a rehearsal dinner or a welcome party for your family, close friends, and out of town guests. I don’t want to do that. I want to take ONE night in this whole thing and do something for me.
So am I being a bridezilla?
Sincerely,
Solo rehearsal dinner
Dear Solo rehearsal dinner,
Are you a bridezilla? Yes and no.
I totally understand where you’re coming from. Wedding planning is stressful, and it does seem at times like you’re planning a big party for everyone else to enjoy. That being said, the party is to celebrate you and your new spouse — your friends and family are probably not going to just all get together on a random Saturday, they are there for you because they love and care about you.
As for what everyone is saying about not getting to eat, not getting to dance, etc…trust me when I say that you totally CAN eat, dance, and enjoy yourself at your wedding. And you SHOULD! Sit down with your fiancé and make a list of priorities, whether that be getting to attend the cocktail hour or getting to really enjoy your playlist. Then, let your vendor team know. Your bridal attendant, photographer, wedding planner, or anyone else who is by your side on the big day will make sure you get to do all of the things you want to do. That’s part of their job.
Now, to the rehearsal dinner. Yes, it is proper etiquette to host a dinner for those who are involved with the rehearsal and for those who have traveled long distances for the wedding. Again, remember that this isn’t a random event you’re throwing for your family and friends. People have taken time out of their lives to be a part of this huge moment in your life. Your bridal party, family, and friends have almost certainly shelled out a lot of money, taken time off of work, and possibly turned down other social engagements to be there for you. Hosting a rehearsal dinner is one of the ways you can say “thank you.” Do you HAVE to host one? No, you don’t HAVE to do anything when it comes to your wedding. But it is a way to show appreciation.
If you want to do a private dinner with your fiancé (which is a great idea), I would suggest doing it the night before the rehearsal. That moment will be the “calm before the storm” in a sense, and it would give you both the opportunity to connect before things get hectic.
I’ll also say this — take some private time with each other on your actual wedding day. Slip away to the bridal suite for 5 minutes, go outside, anything. Take it all in with your new spouse. I promise you, you’ll remember those moments forever.
Wondering if you’re a bridezilla? Email your anonymous questions to jennifer@bridesofli.com
You’re bound to find the perfect gown at one of these bridal salons on Long Island.
It’s finally time! You’ve probably been dreaming about this day for a long time. It’s time to go wedding dress shopping! Whether you’re laser‑focused on a specific designer or just excited to try on every style under the sun, this is your moment. We’ve gathered 16 of the best bridal salons on Long Island to make your shopping experience unforgettable. Call your mom, text your bestie, and start the hunt for the gown that feels like you.
Bridal Salon of Huntington Village
Huntington
This is a full service luxury bridal boutique filled with designer gowns at desired prices. Located in the heart of Huntington Village, its team of bridal consultant professionals have over 20 years experience. The Bridal Salon of Huntington Village is dedicated to making sure you look and feel absolutely stunning in your gown.
Bella Bridesmaids
Huntington
These two friends are new to the Long Island wedding industry – but they have experience that is top notch! Bella Bridesmaids offers a unique and customized experience shopping for bridesmaids’ dresses!
Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique
Commack
Get a full hands-on experience at Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique. At this dress shop, they’ll work side by side with you to choose the perfect gown for your wedding day.
Bridal Suite of Centereach
Centereach
If you’re looking for a modern experience with an old-fashion twist, then the Bridal Suite of Centereach is for you. You get one-on-one time with a bridal consultant, who will be with you and your gown the entire time – from choosing ‘the one’ to alterations and more.
North Fork Bridal Shoppe
Wading River
Shopping for a dress should be fun and not stressful, and the team at North Fork Bridal Shoppe want to make sure it stays that way! Each of their suites are private for you and your besties to relax and be comfortable while you find your dress gown.
Burton’s Bridals
Melville
Burton’s one-on-one policy is to ensure all of their brides get the best, customized experience. They can make anything happen to the gowns, so it will be easy to bring your vision to life.
The Wedding Plaza
Floral Park
The Wedding Plaza is a one-stop shop for the bride and the groom! As a valuable member of your wedding party team, the staff is there for you every step of the way to make sure you and your fiancé look your best on your wedding day.
The Bridal World
Freeport
A family-owned boutique, The Bridal World creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for all brides to feel comfortable trying on their gowns. If you make your appointment during the week, you’ll get lucky enough to have the whole shop to yourself as you browse their beautiful dresses.
Max Bridal
Syosset
What started as a small shop in Mineola has now turned into a full service bridal salon in Syosset at double the size, double the staff and double the amount of gorgeous designer dresses. With their 90 minute appointments, you’re bound to fall in love with ‘the one’ at Max Bridal.
Village Bridal
Babylon
Village Bridal is a family-owned and operated bridal boutique in Babylon. Its staff is both excited and honored to be a part of your special day, and will work hard to find the perfect gown that makes you look and feel your best.
Bridal Reflections
Carle Place
With three locations – two on Long Island and one in New York City – Bridal Reflections has been a mainstay for over 50 years. Their consultants are always paying attention to every detail to ensure a great experience shopping for your perfect dress.
Ivory & Main
Sayville
This is New York’s first exclusively plus size bridal gown boutique. Ivory & Main focuses on brides sized 12-32, but all brides are welcome to shop! In addition to different dress styles, they feature wedding accessories to complete your wedding day look.
Bridal Suite of Bay Shore
Bay Shore
This family-owned bridal shop has been around since 1964. The tight-knit team is ready to help you find your dream gown, and help your mother, mother-in-law and bridal party find the perfect dresses for your big day.
Here Comes the Bridesmaid & Mom
Bethpage
If you’re looking for the perfect bridesmaid dresses (or a gown for mom), Here Comes the Bridesmaid & Mom is the shop for you. They specialize in helping bridesmaids, mothers and brides! They are appointment only, so make sure to call before heading in with your bride tribe.
Simply White Bridal
East Northport
Simply White Bridal was founded by Eline Bertsch, a passionate individual with a rich background in the bridal industry. Offering one-on-one appointments, the staff at Simply White Bridal will be there every step of the way as you search for your dream wedding gown. From selecting your dress to fittings and alterations, they want to make sure you look your best on your wedding day.
Kleinfeld Bridal
New York City
For more than 70 years, Kleinfeld Bridal has been helping thousands of brides find their perfect wedding day dress. With one of the largest selections of designer gowns, their staff of more than 200 professionals are ready to find your wedding look – from gown to veil and whatever else you envision for your big day. Kleinfeld operates by appointments only, so make sure you call ahead to set up yours.
Once you’re ready to go dress shopping, keep these tips in mind:
- Have an idea of the style of dress – if you’re unsure, check out Pinterest or the BOLI page for some inspiration
- Bring a few friends and/or your mother and future mother-in-law. The fewer people might make it easier to choose in the end.
- Keep an open mind! Just because you have your heart set on a mermaid gown – try on that A-line. You might surprise yourself.
- Speak up! If you don’t like something, make sure you say so. You’re spending a lot of money to look your best. Make sure it’s the perfect dress for you! And remember, it’s OK to shop around.
- Speak up! If you don’t like something, make sure you say so. You’re spending a lot of money to look your best. Make sure it’s the perfect dress for you! And remember, it’s OK to shop around.
- MORE: 6 Things to Wear When Dress Shopping
We can pretty much guarantee that if you check out one of the 16 best bridal salons on Long Island, you won’t be disappointed. Happy gown shopping!
Cristina’s personalized approach ensures every bride steps into their wedding day feeling supported, pampered and glowing.
(Photo courtesy of Cristina Ashley Beauty)
Cristina Ashley has always had two great loves: teaching and makeup. After graduating with a teaching degree, she struggled to find a full‑time position. So, she decided to lean into her longtime passion for makeup artistry, something she’d practiced for friends and family throughout high school and college. She went back to school, earned her certification and built a career that blended creativity with connection.
Today, while balancing life with two young children and teaching pre‑K, Cristina is also pouring her heart into her own business, Cristina Ashley Beauty, LLC, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, dedicated to helping brides look and feel their most beautiful on their wedding day.
From Corporate to Entrepreneur
Upon completing her certification, Cristina had big dreams of working for MAC. “I wanted to work in their biggest, best flagship store in Times Square,” said Cristina. She began as a freelancer and quickly moved up, earning additional certifications through MAC’s program and mastering a wide range of techniques and makeup styles.
Her experience eventually led her to Shiseido, where she worked as a training executive on both the corporate and retail sides of the industry. “I worked at several other big‑name companies for about seven years after that, and I loved it,” Cristina shared. But when COVID hit, she felt called to slow down, spend more time on Long Island with her newborn and focus fully on her growing side business.
Cristina eventually returned to her first love — teaching pre‑K on Long Island — while continuing to grow her beauty business, which officially became an LLC in 2025. “And now, I’m so grateful to be part of Brides of Long Island,” said Cristina. “This community is incredible, and I’m truly excited for the future.”
(Photo courtesy of Cristina Ashley Beauty)
A Tailored Natural Soft Glam Look
Cristina’s signature style is natural, soft glam, “a look that enhances each bride’s features without ever masking who they are,” she says. Every application is completely individualized, never cookie‑cutter and begins with a detailed trial where she pinpoints the exact elements a bride wants on her wedding day. Her goal is simple: to make sure each bride looks like herself, just elevated with glowing confidence.
That personalized approach carries through to her techniques and products, from offering both traditional and airbrush makeup to hand‑building custom lashes for every client. “My favorite moment is when brides see themselves in the mirror for the first time,” said Cristina. “It is a true ‘wow’ moment. Not because they look different, but because they feel amazing.” She added that the makeup is lightweight, never heavy or caked, allowing each bride to feel beautiful from the inside out.
(Photo courtesy of Cristina Ashley Beauty)
More Than Just Makeup
For Cristina, bridal beauty is about so much more than makeup. As a Shiseido‑certified artist, she offers Japanese facial massage, oxygen treatments and under‑eye therapies to help brides achieve that healthy, wedding‑day glow from the inside out. “It’s the whole picture of getting ready,” she explained. “I want the skin fortified, nourished and glowing before we even start makeup.” Cristina, who speaks Spanish, travels throughout the tri‑state area and customizes every experience — whether a bride wants full glam, a morning‑of skin ritual or touch‑ups throughout the day.
The values she brings to each client relationship are as essential as her services. Cristina builds her business on integrity, honesty and communication — qualities she believes every bride deserves. “You get full transparency with me,” she said. “This is who I am, this is what I do, and these are the three things I exemplify when working with a bride.” Whether she’s caring for the bride, bridesmaids or mothers, Cristina leads with trust, clarity and genuine connection, creating a seamless and supportive beauty experience.
(Photo courtesy of Cristina Ashley Beauty)
Live in the Moment
Cristina has had many unforgettable brides, but two stand out as reminders of why she loves what she does. One was the sister of her childhood best friend — a bride navigating the deep emotions of getting married without her father, who had passed two years earlier. Cristina not only did her makeup but wrote her a heartfelt card filled with memories of her dad. “She told me it touched her heart and made her day,” Cristina recalled. “In moments like that, you’re not just a makeup artist. You wear many different hats, and sometimes you’re the comfort someone needs.”
Another moment that stays with her came from a bride who switched artists just one week before the wedding, choosing Cristina out of nearly 40 options because she wanted someone who would truly focus on her. After the trial and the wedding‑day glam, the bride saw herself in the mirror and burst into grateful tears. She later wrote Cristina a handwritten note, explaining, “You listened. You understood the assignment. You captured exactly what I wanted.” For Cristina, that reaction, and the connection behind it, is everything.
And when it comes to advice for brides, she keeps it simple: “Enjoy the day and enjoy the process. Life goes fast, the wedding goes fast — so live in the moment.”
(Photo courtesy of Cristina Ashley Beauty)
The partnership brings high-fashion gowns and menswear under one roof.
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
This looks like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
BOLI Preferred Vendor Kleinfeld Bridal, iconic leaders in wedding fashion and famed setting of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress,” announced they’ll be joining forces with Generation Tux, known for their luxury suits and tuxedos. Brides of Long Island will soon be able to shop for their wedding day ensemble alongside their fiancés, with Generation Tux’s first-ever Manhattan showroom opening inside Kleinfeld’s flagship store.
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
“We are thrilled to welcome Generation Tux to the Kleinfeld family,” said Kleinfeld CEO Ronnie Rothstein in a recent press release. “This partnership allows us to provide Kleinfeld’s luxury experience to couples, bringing high-quality menswear and dedicated service to our brides, grooms, and guests under one roof.”
Housed on Kleinfeld’s second floor, the menswear outfitters will feature over 25 suit and tuxedo styles and hundreds of accessory colors. Generation Tux will also offer dedicated stylists that will allow grooms, their wedding party and family to explore a “curated assortment of suits, tuxedos, and in-store exclusives,” according to the press release.
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
“We’re honored to partner with Kleinfeld, an iconic name in the wedding world that has helped define the wedding experience across generations,” said Jason Jackson, President and COO of Generation Tux. “Opening our first Manhattan showroom inside Kleinfeld allows us to pair our modern approach to menswear with the elevated, high-touch experience couples expect when they walk through their doors. Together, we’re creating a seamless and inspiring destination for every part of the wedding style journey.”
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
As Kleinfeld and Generation Tux “lean into the modern trend of couples doing much of the wedding milestones together,” the partnership enables both bride and groom to choose their attire at the same time, adding convenience and connection to the experience.
Generation Tux suits and tuxedos seen online will soon be available at the Manhattan showroom for rent or purchase. Additionally, when 5 people in the wedding party get their suits or tuxes from Generation Tux, the groom will receive his rental for free!
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
For more information or to book an appointment, visit Kleinfeld’s at Brides of Long Island or www.kleinfeldbridal.com
Photo Credit: Melanie Greene, GreenehouseNYC, LLC via Kleinfeld Bridal
Last year’s fire at Bridal Reflections’ Massapequa salon led to an expanded showroom and a new focus.
Image courtesy of Bridal Reflections
March 30, 2025 was a day that transformed BOLI Preferred Vendor Bridal Reflections, ultimately for the better – an electrical fire that started in the basement of their Massapequa salon led to a year of growth, change, and expansion for the legendary brand.
“While the fire was an unexpected and difficult moment, it ultimately became a turning point that allowed Bridal Reflections to thoughtfully evolve,” said Brenna Cicciari, Bridal Reflections’ Marketing Manager. “Rather than simply reopening the space as it was, we took the opportunity to step back and evaluate how our Long Island locations could best serve our brides and their families moving forward.”
After the team discussed their options and brainstormed ideas, the decision was made to create a robust and immersive bridal experience at their Carle Place salon. The Massapequa space would be devoted to a new vision: a dedicated destination for Mother of the Bride and Groom gowns, evening wear, and special occasion attire.
Image courtesy of Bridal Reflections
“A place where mothers and special occasion clients feel just as celebrated as the bride.”
The reimagined Massapequa location will provide the signature Bridal Reflections experience for a wider audience. “The vision is to create a space that feels elevated and refined, while still warm and welcoming,” said Brenna. “A place where mothers and special occasion clients feel just as celebrated as the bride.”
“We’re considering how these clients shop differently and how they want to feel in the space,” she continued. “The goal is for the new salon to feel like a natural extension of Bridal Reflections, allowing us to grow into a new category with the same attention to detail and exceptional service people have come to expect. The showroom will feature a carefully selected assortment of gowns that reflect sophistication, style, and versatility. It’s designed to serve not just wedding-day needs, but all of life’s most meaningful celebrations.”
Image courtesy of Bridal Reflections
“Brides appreciate having everything under one roof.”
Brides of Long Island have come to appreciate the elegance, sophistication, and convenience of Bridal Reflections’ expanded Carle Place salon. “By consolidating our Long Island bridal inventory into one location, we’ve been able to offer brides a broader selection of designers, a more spacious environment, and a seamless appointment experience,” explained Brenna. “Brides appreciate having everything under one roof, with more room to explore and truly enjoy the process.
Image courtesy of Bridal Reflections
“The future of Bridal Reflections is about honoring transition while embracing thoughtful growth.”
With these much-anticipated updates on the horizon, the Bridal Reflections team is looking ahead with pride and enthusiasm. “The future of Bridal Reflections is about honoring tradition while embracing thoughtful growth,” Brenna described. “As we look ahead, we’re excited to keep evolving, introducing new designers, enhancing our spaces, and elevating the experience across every salon while remaining rooted in the values that have guided us for over 50 years.
“We’re continuing to grow in a way that feels intentional and true to who we are, allowing us to serve our community better than ever before.”
Image courtesy of Bridal Reflections
Which vendors were crowned with BOLI’s highest honor? Introducing the 2026 Brides of Long Island Diamond Award winners!
BOLI is proud to claim our area’s best wedding pros as Preferred Vendors. Each year, we recognize the truly outstanding companies and individuals with our annual Diamond Award. You cast your votes and the results are in — below are our 2026 Brides of Long Island Diamond Award winners!
Venues
Bridal Salons
Alterations and Custom Design
Bridal Alterations Studio by Kirstyn
Photo and Video
Hair and Makeup
Hotel Block
DJ and Entertainment
Bands and Musicians
Transportation
Florists
Boudoir Photography
Bridal Beauty Prep
Dance Lessons
Rentals and Decor
Jewelers
Fun Extras
Content Creators
Honeymoon Specialists
Invitations and Stationery
Red Letter Day Invitations and Design
Menswear
Officiant
Photo Booth
Showers, Rehearsals, and Bachelorettes
Wedding Planners and Coordinators
Catering Trucks and Piaggio Ape
Wedding Cakes and Baked Goods
In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Raina can’t stop raving about how her now-husband Greg helped her plan their dream wedding.
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
With Raina doing the research and Greg joining vendor meetings, this perfect power couple planned their special Sept. 7, 2025 wedding. The most important thing for the pair though? Making sure they stayed grounded and remembered the day was an exceptional way to share their love with their family and friends.
A Chance Meeting
Raina and Greg are both sober and met through a mutual friend at a meeting in 2022. Two years later, Greg proposed in Maine, at a summer lake house that has been in his family for years. “It’s such a special place for him, and now it’s such a special place for us,” she said. He planned a romantic dinner, complete with a slideshow on a boat. “We watched the sunset and he was playing music,” Raina said. “I felt like I was in a movie.”
Hit the Ground Running
Raina wasted no time diving into wedding planning after their engagement, starting in August and quickly discovering Brides of Long Island. “I wouldn’t have been able to plan my wedding if it wasn’t for this group,” she said, grateful for the guidance to secure vendors early. With so many brides recommending to book at least a year out, she and Greg locked in most of their major vendors right away. The fast start gave them a sense of calm later on. “I thought we’d get to chill a little more,” she said. “Once I saw what needed to be done, we switched gears and then we were able to relax in between.”
For both Raina and Greg, the venue was the top priority. They spent two weekends touring six or seven locations, knowing they wanted an on‑site ceremony, an outdoor element and a space that felt warm, intimate and classy. Water’s Edge, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, ended up being the last venue they visited. The moment they walked in, everything clicked. “It was just like magic,” Raina said. “It checked all the boxes.”
Throughout the whole wedding planning process, Greg was there – something Raina was grateful for. “I handled the research and scheduling,” she said. “And Greg was fully involved, joining every tour and vendor meeting. He’s amazing.”
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
MORE: The Types of Fiancés You’ll Encounter During Wedding Planning
Feeling Beautiful and Calm
Despite waking up to a stormy morning, Raina stayed surprisingly calm as she got ready for her vows. By the time she and her bridesmaids arrived at the venue, the rain had finally stopped — only for her to discover the ceremony was being set up indoors. She trusted her instincts and politely advocated for the outdoor ceremony she’d always envisioned. “We’re going outside,” she told the team, as long as it wasn’t actively pouring. The staff dried the space, the skies held and she got the ceremony she’d dreamed of. Looking back, she’s grateful she spoke up. “If I didn’t say anything, we were going inside, and I would have been disappointed.”
MORE: 6 Reasons Why Rain on Your Wedding Day Can Be Awesome
Raina also felt truly beautiful on her wedding day, thanks to Be Beautiful Brides, the hair and makeup team she calls her favorite vendor.
The day was rounded out with thoughtful personal touches: cocktail napkins featuring a sketch of her dog, a signature drink inspired by Maine and a celebration centered around the family and friends who mean the most to them.
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
Staying Grounded
The best part of the day was the way Raina and Greg kept returning to each other, grounding themselves in the love that brought them there in the first place. “Whenever the excitement felt overwhelming, we’d reconnect with a glance or a touch, reminding ourselves that this day is about us and our love,” said Raina. Writing their own vows made the ceremony especially intimate, and being sober allowed them to take in every detail with total clarity, something she describes as deeply meaningful.
Their first dance to “I’m With You” by Vance Joy felt like fate, especially after hearing him close with that very song at a concert just weeks before. “We actually took dance lessons before, so we could do more than just sway back and forth on the dance floor,” Raina added.
The night also held a joyful surprise with her mom: a choreographed Zumba routine the two performed together after a quick outfit change, a nod to the classes they each love. It was a playful, personal and heartfelt moment that delighted their guests and gave Raina a second special dance beyond the traditional one with her dad.
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
MORE: 5 Reasons Why You Should Choreograph Your First Dance
The Perfect Day
All of their vendors went above and beyond to create the perfect day for Raina and Greg. Tommy Tunes, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, kept everyone on the dance floor the entire night. The bridal attendant at Water’s Edge ensured that Raina always looked her best. Melissa at Tripguy Travel, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, planned their honeymoon to Paris and Greece.
And Raina can’t forget to give Brides of Long Island another shout-out. “I don’t know how I could have planned our wedding without this group,” Raina said. “It was so helpful to read all of the vendor reviews, and get helpful tips on different ideas from my bridal shower to the morning of.”
Now that she’s settling into newlywed bliss, Raina wants other brides to make sure that the excitement is greater than the stress. “The day is about love, positivity and happiness,” said Raina. “There’s no reason why the negatives should outweigh that.”
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
Vendors:
Venue: Water’s Edge, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photographer/Videography: RF Films & Photography, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: Tommy Tunes, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Bella Flowers
Hair/Makeup: BeBeautiful Brides
Dress: The Bridal World, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Maid of Honor Dress: Here Comes the Bridesmaid, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Invitations: Red Letter Day Invitations and Design, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Dortoni’s in Levittown
Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse and Esquire Tuxedos, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Transportation: Sir Oliver Limousine, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Dance Lessons: Xtreme Rhythm Weddings, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Honeymoon (Paris & Greece): Melissa at Tripguy Travel, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
(Photo courtesy of RF Photography)
This article sponsored by Bridal Reflections, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!
A fun way to celebrate or just another item on your wedding to-do list?
After the excitement of saying “yes,” you may find yourself wondering if an engagement party belongs on your wedding checklist. Truthfully, this is a sort of loaded question. On the one hand, it is another thing to add to your ever-growing to-do list for your wedding, but on the other hand it could be a great way to celebrate your upcoming nuptials in a relaxed, chill environment with your closest friends and family.
To answer the question of, should you throw an engagement party, consider these questions to help you decide.
When will your wedding be?
Timing is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding on an engagement party. A long engagement gives you the chance to celebrate early and build excitement for the big day. But if your wedding is less than 18 months away, you may want to skip the party and focus on sending save-the-dates instead.
Who will host the party?
Sometimes, parents or close relatives take the lead in hosting, but many couples prefer to plan the celebration themselves. Deciding who will be responsible early on helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone is on the same page. Whether you want to embrace tradition or keep full control, clarifying the host sets the tone for how the party will come together. Pro tip: This could also set the tone for your wedding planning too!
Who would you invite?
Some couples choose to invite everyone who will eventually be at the wedding, while others keep the engagement party small and intimate with just close family and friends. A smaller guest list can create a cozy atmosphere and also helps avoid any awkwardness if your wedding guest list changes before the big day. Think about whether you want this to be a preview of the wedding or a more personal gathering.
How will this fit into your overall wedding budget?
It’s important to think about how an engagement party fits into your bigger financial picture. Beyond the immediate costs like food, drinks and décor, consider whether hosting the party might take away from funds you’d rather allocate to the wedding itself. Be honest about your priorities: if splurging on wedding day or honeymoon matters more, scaling back or skipping the engagement party could be the smarter choice.
Where would you have it and what kind of vibe do you want?
This often ties directly into your budget. For a relaxed, low-key atmosphere, a house party or backyard barbecue can feel personal and fun. An intimate dinner at your favorite restaurant offers simplicity with a touch of elegance, while some couples opt for a more elaborate “mini-wedding” style event complete with décor and entertainment. Think about the vibe you want to create and choose a setting that reflects your vision for the day.
Will it overlap with other celebrations?
Between bridal showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties and the rehearsal dinner, there are already plenty of opportunities to celebrate before the wedding. Think about whether hosting another event enhances the excitement or simply adds to the calendar. If you’d rather keep things streamlined, you may decide to skip the engagement party and focus on the other milestone celebrations instead.
Do you want gifts involved?
Gift-giving at engagement parties can be a tricky subject. Some couples prefer to keep the celebration purely about the joy of the moment, with no pressure for guests to bring presents. Others see it as the perfect opportunity to start receiving items they’ll use in married life. There’s no right or wrong choice. Make sure to communicate clearly with your guests so everyone can celebrate without uncertainty.
Do you really want one?
After weighing all the factors, the ultimate decision of whether you should throw an engagement party comes down to whether you truly want one. If you love hosting and are excited to celebrate this next chapter with your partner, then go ahead and start planning! But if the idea of being the center of attention at yet another event or simply the thought of organizing one more party feels overwhelming, it’s perfectly fine to skip it and focus your energy on planning what will be one of the best days of your life.
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong answer. What matters most is choosing the kind of celebration that feels true to you and your love story.
As one of the longest-standing wedding photography studios on Long Island, The Glenmar Studio captures your day with expertise and passion. And now, they’re offering Brides of Long Island an exclusive free gift when booking your photography package. Read on for more information.
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
When the flowers fade, the music softens and the makeup gets washed away, there will be one element from your wedding day that remains: your photos.
Choosing a photographer is one of the most important wedding decisions you’ll make, because ultimately they do a lot more than just take pictures – they immerse themselves in your love story, support you throughout the planning process, and provide much-needed aftercare when your wedding has come and gone.
The artists at BOLI Preferred Vendor The Glenmar Studio understand these responsibilities, and consider it their calling to capture not only your wedding day, but all the beautiful events that happen afterwards. They offer a wide range of services including photography, videography, content creation, and custom album design.
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
“My uncle would always say, ‘find the light.’” – The Glenmar Studio
The history of The Glenmar Studio is storied, dating all the way back to 1936. “I believe we’re the longest running studio in New York,” said Alison Spalter, owner of The Glenmar Studio. “It’s a third generation family business. My grandfather opened the studio in the Bronx. My uncle brought it to Roslyn in the ‘70s, and we’ve been there ever since.”
While 90 years have passed since they first opened their doors, Glenmar’s approach to photography has remained the same. “My uncle would always say, ‘find the light,” Alison said. “Photography and cinematography are mediums where you can use composition and light, tell stories and convey emotion. So what my uncle taught me about finding light became my inspiration. It’s a quality that we look for when hiring new Glenmar shooters.”
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
“We’re creating something to last a lifetime.” – The Glenmar Studio
When asked about Glenmar’s signature style, Alison answered “it’s based off capturing the true emotion and beauty of the day, with as much natural light as possible”
“Weddings are incredibly beautiful,” she added. “We don’t need to jump into any trends. 80% of the day we cover photo-journalistically, and 20% is the more controlled portraiture.”
Since couples can have polarizing opinions on portraits, Alison emphasized the importance of versatility. “We get a lot of information from our clients so that we can execute their vision,” she explained. “Whether they want an editorial portrait session or a relaxed but cohesive portrait session. We typically try to accomplish a little of both. We like to cover all the family combos to make sure they get pictures with all the special people in their lives. We want to accommodate everyone’s requests as best we can, parents as well as the couple.. We’re creating something to last a lifetime.”
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
“We will work with any budget.” – The Glenmar Studio
Many vendors offer specific packages for engaged couples, but Glenmar prefers to keep things personalized. “As professionals in the business for so many years, we try to listen to their ideas in order to curate a project that fits the clients vision for the day. We basically start from scratch,” Alison said. “We’ll try to explain why you’d maybe want a second photographer, or we’d explain why their wedding may not need one. We communicate our recommendations based on their budget, what their ideas are for the day, and what’s needed to make those ideas come to life.”
“We just sit down and start a conversation,” she continued. “We don’t want to say, ‘here’s this giant package, take it or leave it.’ We will work with any budget. We offer discounts for winter weddings, but no matter what we’ll figure out some sort of coverage that fits.”
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
“We have clients that have worked with us for decades.” – The Glenmar Studio
Glenmar may be a photography studio, but Alison sees their role in a more expansive manner. “We’re not only photographers, we’re also a staff of professionals that help clients through the process of planning their wedding,” she described. “We help our couples build a timeline, and then we move on through almost the entire wedding day with them. Our brides and grooms start to rely on us, because we’re with them from the very beginning. We even carry pins in our bags. I can’t even tell you how many bustles I’ve saved!”
That intimacy carries on beyond your ‘I do’s.’ “I always tell brides, ‘if you look through enough of our albums, you’re going to find somebody you know,” she described. “We have clients that have worked with us for decades, through weddings, birthdays, births. It’s so rewarding that we build these lasting relationships.”
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
“Once the day comes, stop planning.” – The Glenmar Studio
Alison’s biggest piece of advice for brides of Long Island is to stay present. “All the people you love are coming together to celebrate you, and it’s a beautiful feeling that can get lost on the day,” she said. “There’s so much happening, it’s a blur. So be present with each other. Once the day comes, stop planning. Let your professionals carry you through.”
She also suggested sticking with the highly-rated BOLI Preferred Vendor community. “You can’t go wrong with any of BOLI’s vendors,” she said. “You’re only recommended by Brides of Long Island if you’re known in this industry and you know what you’re doing.”
Brides of Long Island loves The Glenmar Studio, and we want to pass that love along to our brides! Mention this article and receive a FREE GIFT from The Glenmar Studio when booking your wedding!
Image courtesy of The Glenmar Studio
A well-planned timeline keeps your celebration stress-free and running smoothly.
Your wedding day is filled with countless moving parts, from hair and makeup to photos, vows and the dance floor. Having a clear timeline ensures everything flows seamlessly, so you can focus on the joy instead of the logistics. While it may seem overwhelming at first, creating your wedding day schedule doesn’t have to be stressful. Here is how to make your wedding day timeline to ensure your day unfolds beautifully and without a hitch.
Seek the Help of Your Vendors
This is key! Lean on your vendors for guidance; they’ve done this countless times and know how long each part of the day typically takes. Your photographer, planner and beauty team can help you build a realistic timeline.
Here are some other things to consider making your wedding day timeline:
Work Backward
Start by noting the time your ceremony begins, then work backward to fill in the rest of your day. This ensures you’ll know exactly how much time you have for each step, from getting ready to photos.
Consider Location
Factor in travel time between venues, whether it’s from your getting-ready spot to the ceremony or from the ceremony to the reception. Even short distances can take longer than expected, so build in a buffer for unexpected things like traffic.
Where Will You Be Getting Ready?
Decide if you’ll get ready at home, a hotel or your venue. Each option comes with different logistics, like space for your bridal party, lighting for photos and proximity to the ceremony.
Will You Be Having a First Look?
If you’re planning a first look, carve out time before the ceremony for this special moment. It not only gives you a chance to connect privately but also allows more flexibility for photos.
Remember the Little Things
Don’t forget to schedule time for small but important details, like eating breakfast, touching up makeup or signing your marriage license. These moments keep the day running smoothly.
What’s Your Reception Vision?
Decide whether you want a formal dinner, lively dance party or relaxed cocktail-style celebration. Consider things like introductions, first dance, toasts, cake cutting and bouquet toss. Share that vision with your DJ so they can help pace the night with the right music and energy.
Buffer for Breathing Room
Definitely add some time, just 10–15 minutes here and there, for breaks, touch-ups or simply soaking in the moment. These small pauses help keep the day feeling relaxed and give vendors time to reset if things run behind.
Even the most carefully crafted timelines can go a little off course and that’s perfectly okay! What matters most is that you’ve set yourself up with a solid plan, surrounded by trusted vendors and loved ones who can help keep things moving. If a few minutes slip here or there, don’t stress; the joy of the day will shine through regardless, and those unscripted moments often become the sweetest memories.
Below is an example of how to make your wedding day timeline. Remember – take your vendors’ advice! Individual factors, like bridal party size, reception location, etc. will make a difference. (Ceremony at 2:30 p.m., Reception at 6:00 p.m.)
-
7 a.m. – Hair & Makeup Begins
The beauty team starts with bridesmaids, then the bride. Photographers may arrive for detail shots (dress, rings, invitations). -
10 a.m. – Bridal Party Gets Dressed
The bride and attendants finish getting ready. Photographer captures candid moments. -
12 p.m. – First Look & Portraits
The couple shares a private first look, followed by bridal party and family photos. -
2 p.m. – Guests Begin Arriving
Ushers and ceremony staff welcome guests; pre-ceremony music begins. -
2:30 p.m. – Ceremony
Processional, vows and recessional. Ceremony length varies. -
2:45 p.m. – Post-Ceremony Photos
Group shots with extended family or any portraits not taken earlier. -
5 p.m. – Cocktail Hour
Guests enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres while couples finish photos or freshen up. -
6 p.m. – Reception Begins
Grand introductions, first dance followed by toasts and dinner. -
8 p.m. – Dancing & Cake Cutting
Dance all night long followed by dessert. -
9:45 p.m.– Last Dance & Send-Off
Couple shares a final dance before a sparkler exit or other farewell.