Ceremony Rehearsal Guidelines and Processional Advice

It is finally the week of your wedding! You and your fiancé have been planning for months and the rehearsal day is finally here! All the plans are set, the balances are settled, everyone’s attire has been fitted and picked up. You have planned the most amazing rehearsal dinner to kick off your wedding festivities… But first, you must get through the rehearsal itself.

We cannot tell you how many couples have arrived to their rehearsal, buzzing to see their entire bridal party together for the first time and they check in with their coordinator and/or officiant, and they’re asked for their final processional order and their response is… “My what?!”

If you don’t know what the processional order should be, or are overwhelmed by developing this order and planning for the success of your overall ceremony and rehearsal, read on for ways to best prepare and plan for a quick and seamless ceremony rehearsal so that you can get to the rest of the evening’s celebrations in no time!

It is important to remember that your rehearsal isn’t intended to be a dry run through of your entire ceremony. Instead, it is meant to practice walking in and out, and knowing where everyone will stand, while your officiant briefly runs through the major points of the ceremony. This should be a swift and simple process, usually only taking a half hour with the proper planning beforehand.

Before we jump into the nitty gritty, two foolproof tips to a successful ceremony and rehearsal: hire a professional coordinator and experienced officiant. If that is not in the budget, or if you want to put a more personal touch on the ceremony, be sure to ask a responsible and assertive family member to assist you so that you can be fully present. Also, when opting for a family member or friend to officiate your ceremony, discuss all aspects of your ceremony details before the rehearsal to avoid confusion and frustration.

Disclaimer: While we respect and honor all relationships, despite gender or sexuality, for the sake of this post we will use the term “bride and groom”

Visual provided courtesy of Rev. Laura C. Cannon & Associates

  1. PLAN AHEAD. Develop your processional order ahead of time and discuss this, along with all other ceremony details, with your officiant ahead of time. Your processional order is who is walking down the aisle and in what order. Traditionally, the order is as follows:
    • Officiant
    • Important guests (e.g. grandparents, parents of the groom, mother of the bride with attendant, etc.)
    • Groom
    • Bridesmaid and groomsman (pair and repeat accordingly)
    • Maid of Honor and Best Man
    • Ring Bearer(s)
    • Flower Girl(s)
    • Bride and Attendant
      • PRO TIP: Note any song changes that might act as a cue for the different groupings
      • DISCLAIMER: There is not one “right” way to order this – feel free to add your own personal touch if you have other plans for this ceremonious moment
  2. SHARE THIS INFORMATION AHEAD OF TIME. Do you have a bridal party group text, Facebook group, email thread, etc. in the works? Are you preparing bridal party gift bags? It might be wise to send a brief message and/or include a small printout of important day-of details, like the processional order and maybe even a concise general timeline of the day (arrival, HMU schedule, ceremony start, cocktail hour, reception, event end, shuttle times) or emergency contact info (wedding planner, venue, MOH/BM phone numbers).
  3. DAY-OF REHEARSAL START AT THE ALTAR. Once everyone has arrived and gotten the chance to acquaint themselves, we find that it is easiest to start your rehearsal in the middle, right at the altar. Remember, the point of the ceremony is letting your bridal party know where to stand, where to walk and who they are walking with, so start by evenly spacing everyone at the front of the ceremony site.
    • Referencing the visual above, traditionally, the bride, maid of honor, and bridesmaids will be on the left side, while the groom, best man and groomsmen will be on the right side. The officiant should stand in the middle.
  4. PRACTICE THE RECESSIONAL. Once everyone is in place, while you still (hopefully) have everyone’s attention, begin practicing the recessional – before doing so, instruct everyone to stay in their pairings as they exit toward the processional start point/other designated area.
    • Soon-to-be newlyweds, pretend that you’ve just sealed it with a kiss and begin with the bride and groom exiting down the aisle toward the back. Take your time exiting and maybe even stop halfway for a quick smooch (and photo). Once the newlyweds make the full exit, the bridal party should begin their exit. The maid of honor and best man should lead the way, with each couple behind them exiting when the couple ahead of them is about halfway down the aisle. The parents should then exit (if applicable), with the officiant directing your guests to enjoy cocktail hour.
      • PRO TIP: On the day-of the wedding, if you are taking photos immediately following your ceremony, go the opposite direction of cocktail hour so you can quickly sneak away for these photos, instead of being bombarded by well wishes from all your guests right away (instruct your family and/or bridal party to do the same, if they are needed for photos).
  5. LINE UP FOR THE PROCESSIONAL. Your bridal party should already be in their respective pairings, so it helps to instruct them back to the processional starting point. Referencing the processional order in STEP 1, it is typical for the officiant to walk down the aisle first, or perhaps approach from stage right. Once the officiant is in place, important guests, again referenced above, should enter or be escorted to their seats. Followed by the groom, who might walk down the aisle with an escort, or approach from stage right (at this point, based on preference, the groomsmen may enter, too, or they can escort the bridesmaids in as laid out).  Assuming the groomsmen will escort the bridesmaids, they will be next in the processional order and should offer the ladies their left arm. Each couple should begin their entrance when the couple ahead of them is about halfway toward the altar. The best man and maid of honor should proceed next. Followed by the ring bearer(s) and flower girl(s). Once the flower girls have approached the final row of guest seating, the bride and her attendant should begin the grand bridal entrance.
  6. PRACTICE THE HAND-OFF. Usually there are a lot of nerves and excitement at this point, so it wouldn’t hurt to practice the way the bride will be handed off. Typically, the attendant will offer the bride a hug or kiss, or perhaps remove her veil. It is then typical to shake hands with or hug the groom. The bride will hand her bouquet to her maid of honor or designated bridesmaid, while the maid of honor or nearest bridesmaid adjusts the train on the dress, as needed. The bride and groom should stand facing each other, joining hands when ready.
  7. BRIEF RUN THROUGH OF CEREMONY DETAILS. At this point, it is your officiant’s time to shine! They should take over all the talking points, briefly speaking through the ceremony headings so everyone has a rough idea of the order of ceremony events. It is typical to practice any readings, unity ceremonies, and when the rings should be presented and by who.
    • PRO TIP: Give the ring bearer(s) fake rings, or have them carry a cute sign in lieu of the rings to ensure nothing of value is lost along the way.
  8. PRACTICE THE RECESSIONAL AGAIN. Practice makes perfect! If you feel it’s necessary to practice the recessional and/or processional, again, now would be the time for that.
  9. ASK AND ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS. Is anyone confused by their role or responsibilities? Are there any details making you feel nervous or uneasy? This should be addressed at the rehearsal so that the day of goes off just as rehearsed.

While we know there are countless variations and traditions to take into consideration when planning your wedding ceremony, we hope this breakdown of rehearsal guidelines is a helpful guide to streamlining your rehearsal success! Comment below if there is anything that we missed that should be included on this list. Are there other details that you’re stumped on in the planning process? Let us know and stay tuned for more tips and tricks for your wedding planning success!

http://ceremonyofficiants.com/resources

Image courtesy of Kerri Carlquist Photography from an October wedding ceremony in the Forest

Places to display your wedding gown

Whether you’re a ballgown kind of bride, or prefer a classic silk silhouette, there are countless places throughout the estate to display your dress so that you’re sure to capture every lace or beaded detail stitched into your gown. Below are some amazing places to display the dress of your dreams, both inside and outside, while you get ready for the best day ever!

THE BRIDAL SUITE

With a suite custom tailored for a bride and her maids, of course there are several locations within the bridal suite to display your gown, so it won’t even leave your sight!

The window on the far end of the bridal suite creates the perfect frame to display your wedding dress with a rod large enough (and strong enough) to accommodate your entire party’s attire. Whether you want to let light in for a playful look at all gorgeous detail sewn into your gown, or close the shutters for a perfectly crisp view of its silhouette, this is the most popular option for hanging your gown before it is time to get dressed.

dan-michelle-wedding_TSP-134216dan-michelle-wedding_TSP-134611dan-michelle-wedding_TSP-135221Michelle admiring the intricate details of her beaded gown, photos courtesy of T&S Photography

TJ_Wed0041Tricia’s lace gown, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

Turner0104Carissa’s cap sleeve ball gown, photo courtesy of Rebekah Albaugh

0019Lauren’s gorgeous gown, photo courtesy of Joy Lyn Photography

AbbyAndChadWedding-120Abby’s elegant gown, photo courtesy of One July Photo

Ashley and NickAshley and NickAshley’s silk mermaid gown, photos courtesy of Dana Ann Photography

0020Lauren’s gown displayed beside her bridesmaid’s dresses, photo courtesy of Joy Lyn Photography

Abbey_RJ_GettingReady_4Abbey’s ballgown styled beside her bridesmaid’s and flower girl’s dresses, photo courtesy of Lauren Sims Photography

AH1_8168Jorie’s gown surrounded by her bridesmaid’s blush and sequin gowns, photo courtesy of Andrew Hayden Photography

Stephanie+MikeMonteBelloEstateWedding-122Stephanie’s whimsical ballgown, photo courtesy of Jas & Paul Photography

AR_Wed0009The sun peaking through Ashley’s gown, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

ARP23127Melissa’s amazing two-piece gown, photo courtesy of Agnes Rasek

AutumnAndBrandon-177Autumn admiring her lace gown beside her bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, photo courtesy of One July Photography

If you are planning a first look, you might be getting dressed while the sun is still low. With plenty of natural light in the bridal suite, there isn’t a single window that is the best option. Check out the way Jason Adrian and Stephanie Pana played with natural light to showcase all the stunning crystal and lace detail in Stephanie’s gown.

10JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-69445JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-69326JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-69338JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-6937Stephanie’s lace and beaded gown, photos courtesy of Jason Adrian and Stephanie Pana Photography

Our dreamy painting of Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s “Place de la Trinite” provides the perfect pop of soft watercolors to contrast your gown.

hayley-evan-wedding_TSP-145432.jpgHayley’s fitted lace gown, photo courtesy of T&S Photography

THE LIBRARY

Just next door to the bridal suite is our library, so your dress won’t be going far while your photographer works their magic. Boldly painted a deep shade of maroon, your gown will pop when displayed in this space, with other rich accents and dramatic furnishings to compliment all the detail your dress holds.

Kathleen & Arsenis | WeddingKathleen’s exquisite gown, photo courtesy of Ed & Aileen Photography

libraryAR_Wed0001.JPGOur bookshelves creating the perfect frame for Ashley’s lace gown, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

Chicago WeddingIbukun’s lace ball gown, photo courtesy of Olu Jr Photography

libraryLJ_Wed0027Lauren’s gorgeous gown, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

THE COCKTAIL LOUNGE

For a crisp, neutral setting with plenty of natural lighting, the cocktail lounge has quickly become another popular option for displaying your gown. Angles are everything when capturing the details of the dress in this space because of the natural and accented lighting from the floor to ceiling windows, crystal chandeliers and café lights.

pergolaLaurenAbbey’s beaded tulle gown, photo courtesy of Lauren Sims Photography

pergolaSpevakPerry_0058Marissa’s beautiful gown, photo courtesy of Chrissy Deming

pergolaMayTanya’s frilled beaded gown, photo courtesy of Jeremy Lawson Photography

pergolakm_AUG25_123502Kristina’s stunning gown, photo by Noelle Adams

pergolaCasey_Jay0002Casey’s dreamy lace gown, photo courtesy of Layla Eloa Photography

pergolapergolaMarriedKathleenMike-126.jpgKathleen’s gown, photos courtesy of Annie Steele Photography

THE FLOWER WALL

The dreamy texture of our custom flower wall makes for another excellent neutral backdrop for your bridal gown. Mary had a great idea to get dressed in front of the flower wall, too, just before a private first look with her father.

flower wallMary admiring the beaded detail on her exquisite lace gown, November 2018, photos courtesy of Jennifer Boris

THE FRONT DOOR OF THE ESTATE

What better way to capture the beauty of your dress and the place where your marriage began! Surrounded by natural greenery and pops of color from our seasonal blooms, the front door of the estate makes the perfect frame for your gown with its high peaked entrance and unique detailing.

3D8A4606Katie’s dress for her August wedding, photo courtesy of Dana Ann Photography

16JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-699217JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-6997Stephanie’s detailed gown for her August nuptials, photos courtesy of Jason Adrian & Stephanie Pana

AH1_8236Jorie’s gown on a crisp October day, photo courtesy of Andrew Hayden

TJ_Wed0001Tricia’s beautiful off-the-shoulder gown at her September wedding, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

bonfitto-4927 (002)Lanie’s fitted gown on a gloomy October day, photo courtesy of Lauren Anne Photo

THE TREES

With so much natural beauty surrounding the estate, our bravest brides let their photographers creative edge run wild by letting them display their dress somewhere throughout our impeccable grounds. Pick a tree, any tree, and let your gown’s beauty gleam in the natural lighting.

T&C_A&J-678T&C_A&J-680T&C_A&J-679Jessica’s dreamy gown in the woods, photos courtesy of T and C Photographie

IMG_31936IMG_31939IMG_31938Photos courtesy of Jason Adrian & Stephanie Pana

_RD15454Photo courtesy of Robb Davidson Photography

With so many stunning gowns, filled with such unique detail, it’d be hard to get a bad photo of any of these dresses. Where are you planning to display your gown on your big day? Comment below with your suggestions so we can add to our list!

First look location ideas

While we know this is a heavily debated topic, at Monte Bello, we are on board for the first look trend. While it is not the most traditional way to see each other for the first time on your wedding day, we find that our couples that plan for an intimate first look, and factor their photography plan into their timeline, experience less day-of stress and are able to fully enjoy the entirety of the celebration they’ve planned (instead of rushing to take photos during cocktail hour). Furthermore, you get to spend more time with your beau on your wedding day and many couples take this opportunity to get even more intimate, by sharing private handwritten vows with each other before the ceremony.

Several of you have asked for our recommendations on where is the “best, most Instagram-worthy spot” to have your first look at Monte Bello, and the truth is, there isn’t a single answer. Check out some of our suggestions below and let us know if you’ve found a hidden gem of your own!

ON THE BRIDGE BY THE WATERFALL

Abbey_RJ_Portraits_4Abbey_RJ_Portraits_11Abbey_RJ_Portraits_14Abbey_RJ_Portraits_22Ron & Abbey August 2018, photos courtesy of Lauren Sims Photography

LindaPhil_w_136_R4S_5746LindaPhil_w_155_R3S_7662LindaPhil_w_170_R4S_5811Phil & Linda September 2018, photos courtesy of Photography by Roland Gozun

Loukota-0200Loukota-0201Justin & Vicki July 2018, photography by Amy Aiello Photography

01020111Justin & Lauren August 2018, photos courtesy of Joy Lyn Photography

IN THE GARDEN

Julia & James | WeddingJulia & James | WeddingJulia & James | WeddingJulia & James | WeddingJames & Julia August 2019, photos courtesy of Ed & Aileen Photography

Annie _ Dan Wedding-097Annie _ Dan Wedding-098Annie _ Dan Wedding-105Dan & Annie October 2018, photos courtesy of Ed & Aileen Photography

IN THE FOREST, AMONG THE TREES

684JASONADRIANPHOTOGRAPHY-Stephanie&Kyle-730013Kyle & Stephanie August 2018, photos courtesy of Jason Adrian Photography & Stephanie Pana Photography

Stephanie+MikeMonteBelloEstateWedding-216Stephanie+MikeMonteBelloEstateWedding-226Michael & Stephanie October 2018, photos courtesy of Jas + Paul Photography

THE POND AND DOCK

Luke and MichalaLuke and MichalaLuke and MichalaLuke & Michala September 2019, photos courtesy of Dana Ann Photography

BY THE GARDEN CLOCK

TJ_Wed0225TJ_Wed0230TJ_Wed0238TJ_Wed0247Jake & Tricia September 2018, photos courtesy of Greyes Photography

ON THE PATIO OUTSIDE THE GROOM’S SUITE

AutumnAndBrandon-295AutumnAndBrandon-304AutumnAndBrandon-305AutumnAndBrandon-313AutumnAndBrandon-315Brandon & Autumn July 2019, photos courtesy of One July Photography

BY THE WILDFLOWER PRAIRIE

3D8A59263D8A58863D8A58523D8A5967Erik & Katie August 2017, photos courtesy of Dana Ann Photography

50568687_10161467487130637_348565230617362432_o.jpprairiegprairie50454664_10161467486330637_2107759396695048192_oMatt & Mary November 2018, photos courtesy of Jennifer Boris Photography

IN THE COCKTAIL LOUNGE

ARP23318ARP23319TJ & Melissa April 2019, photos courtesy of Agnes Rasek

Casey_Jay0273Casey_Jay0276Casey_Jay0277Jay & Casey October 2018, photos courtesy of Layla Eloa Photography

Hopefully this sparks some inspiration for you as you continue wedding planning! Which is your favorite? Should we add to our list? We’ll be compiling another blog post soon filled with our favorite photo opportunities both inside and outside… Stay tuned!

Ceremony locations

Did you know The Monte Bello Estate features five distinctive on-site ceremony locations? Four of these options are set throughout our impeccably manicured grounds, sweeping you away to a serene escape where you’ll vow to forever with the love of your life in front of your closest family and friends. Monte Bello also offers a breathtaking indoor ceremony space so that your guests can comfortably enjoy the beauty of your nuptials despite any unforeseen weather conditions. Featuring crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that showcase early American Oak trees and our restored native prairieland, your guests won’t even realize that our cocktail lounge was the backup plan for your on-site ceremony.

The original ceremony location is the classic gazebo set beneath early American Oak trees overlooking the estate home and backing up to the picturesque pond and dock. With a concrete aisle perfect for a runner, or lined with flower petals, and a permanent wrought iron structure that is ideal for dressing up with floral, garland or drapery, this ceremony space is beautiful no matter the time of year. For a brief time in the spring months (think late-April/early-May) the redbud trees make the perfect backdrop for your ceremony, as the small pink flowers bloom, perfectly outlining the tree branches just beyond the gazebo. Throughout the summer months, the trees reach their potential as they come into full bloom painting a lush green backdrop with the sun playfully gleaming through the foliage; before the fall months sweep in, bringing a crisp, vibrant touch to the grounds as the leaves become bright shades of yellow, orange and red.

Another popular ceremony location is the ‘Narnia’ clock centralized near the garden, estate and outdoor cocktail hour setting. The garden features a serene waterfall that filters toward a bridge over a pond of water lilies that guests can delight in as they await your processional. The clock makes for the perfect altar, acting as a timestamp when you seal your marriage with a kiss, before guests follow the pathway to cocktail hour where they’ll enjoy open bar service and butler passed hors d’Oeuvres.

We’re ever evolving at Monte Bello and love the opportunity to hear what our couples love as they explore our vast landscape. Thanks to a handful of couples that wanted to bring their outdoor ceremony to the next level, finding flatland in the woods a few-hundred feet from the gazebo ceremony. The forest ceremony location is perfect for the couple looking for an organic ceremony among the trees. This space is the perfect natural canvas for you to embellish with as much décor as you can dream of or do nothing but marvel in the beauty of nature as is, with the massive trees overhead.

Lastly, the wildflower prairie ceremony is a stunning option overlooking Illinois’ largest wildflower preserve before the lush tree line takes over. With massive Oak trees framing the space and romantic café lights strung overhead, this is the picture-perfect setting to say, ‘I do’. Sharing this location with our outdoor cocktail hour setting, we can accommodate 170 guests for a seated ceremony before inviting your guests to open bar service while we quickly transition this to an outdoor cocktail lounge for you and your guests to enjoy.

Are you planning your wedding at The Monte Bello Estate? Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts about our most popular first-look locations, as well as other great photo opportunities throughout our grounds and Instagram-worthy places to display your bridal gown.

TheReillyWedding-666June 2019, photo courtesy of One July Photography

ARP23591April 2019, photo courtesy of Agnes Rasek

Swahlstedt-0083May 2017, photo courtesy of Wes Craft Photography

CeremonyMay 2016, photo courtesy of Layla Eloa Photography

Monte Bello_Fencl_Kufta_WM_DO_0433May 2018, photo courtesy of TWA Photographic Artists

TJ_Wed0675 - CopySeptember 2018, photo courtesy of Greyes Photography

3D8A5328August 2017, photo courtesy of Dana Ann Photography

Monte Bello_Bert_B_WK_DL-0443September 2017, photo courtesy of TWA Photographic Artists

Driveway LocationOctober 2017, photo courtesy of Sara Nili

0344August 2018, photo courtesy of Joy Lyn Photography

Jeremy&Jackie-Ceremony-1May 2018, photo courtesy of Jordan Imhoff Photography

_RD16306September 2017, photo courtesy of Robb Davidson Photography

Abbey_RJ_Ceremony_113August 2018, photo courtesy of Lauren Sims Photography

hayley-evan-wedding_TSP-162803June 2019, photo courtesy of T&S Photography

Cocktail Hour

Outdoor cocktail hour at The Monte Bello Estate has been upgraded! Take a look at our new permanent bar structure and lounge area.MonteBello_Facebook_SarahCudneyPhotograpy_13_previewMonteBello_Facebook_SarahCudneyPhotograpy_11_previewPhotos by Sarah Cudney Photography

Guests have been swooning over this perfect spot to sip their drinks before the reception begins (not to mention the beautiful photos that comes from it). Our wildflower field paints the most gorgeous backdrop and our pool gives off the perfect ambiance.

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JanelleBrad_Wedding_July072017_502_previewPhoto by Jenna Marie Photography

Don’t worry if Mother Nature isn’t on your side, our indoor cocktail hour location is throughout the main level of The Monte Bello mansion and is just as breathtaking.

Victoria&PatrickSamsPics41_previewPhoto by Rebecca Haley Photography

Enhance your cocktail even more by adding on signature drinks, yard games or bringing in live music.

Cocktail hour comes with your choice of three delicious hors d’Oeuvres served butler style. Our most popular include:

-Tomato bisque shooters with grilled cheese

-Stuffed mushroom caps with crab, savory sausage, or spinach and feta

-Bacon wrapped dates

-Grilled shrimp served with fresh roasted garlic aioli

-Meatballs (Swedish, BBQ, or sweet & sour)

Choose from many other options and pick your favorites during your tasting!

 

 

 

Early Access

Looking for ways to simplify your wedding day schedule? The Monte Bello Estate offers couples the chance to add on ‘Early Access’ to their big day. This provides a stress-free environment for the whole bridal party! Choose between arriving at 9:30 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. and take advantage of our beautiful bridal suite, entertaining grooms suite and gorgeous grounds. Imagine everyone getting ready under one roof, sipping their mimosas and taking STUNNING before and after photos. No rushing, no driving from place to place- hair and makeup comes to you- it’s truly a relaxing way to start your wedding day festivities.

011_0078_previewPhoto Courtesy of Timothy Whaley & Associates Pamela_William0331_preview

Bridal Suite

Our bridal suite acts as the perfect backdrop for your ‘getting ready’ pictures with your closest girls at your side. It comes equipped with plenty of seating, a place to display dresses, tons of natural lighting, and a bathroom big enough to accommodate your whole hair and makeup team. Don’t forget to pop the champagne! We offer a mimosa bar to start off the day’s celebrations. Cheers!

dan-michelle-wedding_TSP-144244_previewPhoto Courtesy of T&S Hughes Photography

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rachel-andrew-wedding-68_previewrachel-andrew-wedding-73_previewPhotos Courtesy of True Grace Photography

dan-michelle-wedding_TSP-142949_previewPhoto Courtesy of T&S Hughes Photography

 

 

Groom’s Suite

Don’t worry, we have not forgotten about our grooms! Our groom suite is the ideal man-cave complete with a pool table, poker table, craps table and foosball table. We also offer a list of craft beers to choose from for everyone to enjoy. Surrounded by sports, movie and music memorabilia, your guy and his buddies will be thrilled to hang out here while they prepare for the big night ahead.

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019_0337_preview018_0335_previewPhotos Courtesy of Timothy Whaley & Associates

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Grounds 

Having access to the estate early gives you more time to for photo ops around the grounds. Whether you decide to do a first look or if you just want separate group shots- knocking these photos out with plenty of time before yourceremony makes the day run so smoothly.

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690-160702-Vanessa-Phil-WED_previewPhoto Courtesy of Liz Lui Photography
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010_0075_preview008_0024_previewPhotos Courtesy of Timothy Whaley & Associates

SAL_0977_previewSAL_0477_previewPhotos Courtesy of Justpix Inc Photography

10 out of 10 would recommend adding on Early Access; contact your venue coordinator to learn more! Happy Wedding Planning!

Personalized Elements

Arrive in style! We’ve noticed a trend in transportation that makes for some great photo ops. Whether you’re looking for a grand entrance and/or a monumental exit, here are a few ideas we LOVE from our past weddings.

This carriage gave us major Cinderella vibes! So romantic and made it truly feel like these newlyweds were straight out of a fairy tale.

 

We were so happy to host a Lemont firefighter wedding this year! We love that they decided to have the truck be apart of their big day at the estate.

MarriedKathleenMike-698Photo Courtesy of Annie Steel Photography

Another great ride was this hot pink hummer limo. So fun and something different from a traditional limo.

Hall_Rajchel061617_0304Hall_Rajchel061617_0650Photos courtesy of Studio One Photography

Vintage is so in right now. This couple chose to have an old-fashion car as their mode of transportation. Such a classy touch to this picture perfect day!

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Looking for transportation for your whole crew? A trolley is a unique alternative to a party bus. What a fun and cute way to include all your close VIPs on your big day. Monique and Rob-1436Photo Courtesy of Eric Gee Photography

Last but not least, a bride and her horse make for beautiful photos. We’re very excited to say this year we have two more couples who have decided to include horses on their wedding day. Our grounds paint the perfect scene- giving off a whimsical, majestic feel.

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*Here at the Monte Bello Estate, we love to see couples add personalized touches to their events. Picking a unique form of transportation can make for another memorable detail for your special day.

July 2017 Wedding Recap

Summer is in full swing and we have been having some beautiful weddings here at the estate! July had tons of fun times, tasty food, beautiful colors and of course, romance.

We’re noticing a lot of couples this year choosing to add on yard games to their cocktail hour. We offer, corn hole, giant jenga, connect four and ring toss. The games are a huge crowd pleaser and a fun addition to the party!

S’mores are (as always) the most popular add on this season. A late night snack is a perfect way to end a night full of celebrating. Our staff sets up a beautiful station of s’mores goodies for guests to build their own treats. The Monte Bello Estate has four fire pits outside for roasting marshmallows under the stars. The fire adds an extra touch of ambiance to the end of your event as your guests start to filter outside.

Every season is beautiful here at the estate so we can’t pick a favorite! However, these summer photos have been exceptionally stunning.

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One final detail we loved from July was having Heavenly Harps come in to play for a couple’s ceremony and cocktail hour. The harp adds elegance and romance to weddings that we simply adore! We definitely recommend Heavenly Harps if you’re looking to add on some live music to the beginning of your event.

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Pool Ambiance

Who doesn’t love some ambiance?? The Monte Bello Estate has a beautiful pool that adds an extra pop to your cocktail hour. Guests really enjoy sipping their drinks with a view! Enhance your event décor with our upgraded pool package. The package keeps the pool open through your reception and includes lights and floating candles to set the mood. Our staff takes care of it all so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Take a look at this gorgeous shot from a July wedding! Inquire within to find out more.

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Photography by Amanda Megan Miller Photography

Yes Way Frosé

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Did you know the Monte Bello Estate has a variety of signature drinks available to add on to your bar package?? This month we’re highlighting one of our favorite options, the Yes Way Frosé! This fun (and delicious!!) cocktail is made with Juliette Rosé poured over a scoop of raspberry sorbet to create the perfect fruity combo.

Juliette Rosé is a crisp rose wine with an initial fruit-forward taste of raspberries and berries that give an attractive, open feel. It’s refreshing and elegant with layers of lively fruit and a bright, smooth finish. Produced at the Maison of Domaine de La Sanglière in southern France, Juliette is a true expression of a traditional Provencal rosé wine.

Adding on signature drinks is always a fun way to personalize the bar for your guests. Inquire within to learn more about how you can include the Yes Way Frosé to your big day!

-Photos courtesy of Erin Dobosiewicz