Wedding Planner

Wedding
Guide to
Door County
For a minute, just close your eyes and envision your perfect wedding day. Where do you see the ceremony taking place? Is it near the shimmering waterfront
on a sun-drenched summer day or nestled within a historic church? Perhaps it’s in front of a scenic vista as the sun begins to set leaving the sky awash
in soft hues of blue, amber, and pink. Maybe it takes place surrounded by the vivid spring blossoms of a lakefront garden. Is the reception under the stars
in the quiet countryside, under a canopy of lush green trees, in a lavish banquet hall, or at a posh resort? 300 miles of breathtaking shoreline, a variety of
charming venues and unique options to rest and relax are just a few of the reasons couples declare Door County the ideal location for their special day.
From simple to extravagant, traditional to unique — a Door County wedding is sure to be all you could ever imagine and so much more! Expect nothing
but the best and rest assured that’s just what you’ll discover. Come see what all the fuss is about and make your wedding dreams a reality in Door County.
Life is about
moments like this
Driving Distance
Door County sits in the center of the upper Midwest’s “inland seas.” It is easily
reachable by car and within a 3-5 hour drive of cities including Chicago, Milwaukee,
Madison and Minneapolis/St. Paul. The county boasts 300 miles of shoreline and is
comprised of 19 communities from Southern Door to Washington Island where you’re
sure to feel right at home with warm and friendly hospitality.
Wedding Services
Weddings involve a significant amount of planning. From florists to music and entertainment, photographers, transportation and officiants — there can be an overwhelming
amount to take care of. But rest assured, Door County’s enthusiastic, dedicated service professionals are here to help you figure out all the fine details.
• Professional Wedding Planners • Catering • Specialty Food & Drinks • Bakeries • Florists • Stationery • Personalized Gifts & Favors • Jewelers
• Music & Entertainment • Photography & Videography • Transportation • Spa & Beauty Services • Officiants • Wedding Stylists • Rental Services
For more information on wedding services available in Door County, visit www.DoorCounty.com/Weddings.
The Engagement
You’ve found the love of your life! You are planning to “pop” the big question. The ring is tucked away in its black velvet case. Your heart races
just thinking about it. You want it to be perfect; it’s a moment you’ll both remember for the rest of your lives. So how are you going to do it?
Why not surprise your significant other with a little getaway? From majestic, waterfront escapes to a quiet candlelit dinner for two with a view
of the setting sun, Door County is the perfect location for the romantic proposal of your dreams. So what are you waiting for? Pack a going
away bag, get out of town for a few days, and don’t forget the ring!
Ideas
Take a romantic walk along the shore, all along the western coast of the peninsula you
are sure to catch an incredible view of the sun setting over the water that will serve as a
beautiful setting for your proposal.
Tour a winery, sip the spirit of Door County and walk amongst the cherry blossoms before
dropping down to one knee.
Let the stunning scenery found at any one of our five gorgeous state parks or 19 county
parks serve as a charming location to propose. Consider Sven’s Bluff at Peninsula State
Park which offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding islands or Cave Point County Park
where the relentless waters of Lake Michigan have created spectacular sea caves.
Rent a sail boat, pontoon boat, or charter a cruise around the peninsula and surrounding
islands for a serene, dreamy wedding proposal on the open water surrounding Door County.
Climb a lookout tower and revel in the awe-inspiring surroundings before presenting the
little black box you have tucked away.
Pre-Celebration
Tired of the same old bachelor/bachelorette parties? If you’re in search of something more, something different to make it extra special and break free from the ordinary — set your sights on Door
County! Reserve your stay at one of our fine resorts, vacation homes, cottages, inns, or campgrounds, then gather your friends and family for the experience of a lifetime. There are breweries to tour,
wine to sample, galleries to be shopped and so much more.
Ideas
Express your sense of adventure with a zip line excursion, kayak tour, or spend the day water-skiing.
Jump on the wine trail where you will discover seven wineries proud to offer you and your guests a sample of the region’s finest.
Play a round of golf at one of 11 meticulously maintained courses that wind through old orchards and give way to sprawling water views.
Rent a pontoon boat, go sailing or charter fishing - relax on the open water and celebrate as you coast along the scenic shoreline.
Take a cooking class; from expert to beginner, there’s something for everyone to discover and groups are always welcome! Bring your appetite
and awaken your taste buds with a gourmet experience you’ll all treasure forever.
The Wedding
It’s finally arrived! You’ve been planning, anticipating, and poring over the details since the day you laid eyes on your engagement ring. Everything is just as you imagined it. In just a few
minutes you will be walking down the aisle to meet your best friend and say your vows. The limo just pulled up in front of the hotel. You take one final glance in the mirror — this is the moment
you’ve been waiting for. Whether it’s a small gathering or a grand affair, set the tone for your big day of wedded bliss by selecting the perfect location and theme. From traditional to nautical,
extravagant and beyond — the possibilities are endless in a place like nowhere else.
Ideas
For those of you who seek something on the traditional side, consider having your ceremony at one of two historic Moravian churches overlooking Eagle Harbor in Ephraim. This quiet village is where
you’ll find old world charm and stunning natural beauty that goes unsurpassed. Or perhaps one of many modern churches dotted along the countryside and nestled within the unique communities
throughout Door County would suit the occasion better. Explore your options; you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.
If it’s a charming, rustic ceremony and laid back reception with a touch of country flair that you seek, Door County is definitely the right fit for your event. There are plenty of options to suit your
style from restored barns, orchards, gardens, and more! Imagine your ceremony on the grounds of an art gallery tucked within the peaceful countryside or amongst the cherry blossoms of spring.
Hold the reception outdoors under a grand tent or on the private grounds of a rental home on the tranquil lakefront. Envision you and your guests dancing the night away under twinkling lights that
illuminate the wood floor of a historic barn. End the evening with a bonfire where guests can toast marshmallows for s’mores.
Door County’s heritage is steeped in maritime tradition making it a prime location to host a nautically themed wedding. With 53 beaches and 11 historic lighthouses located along 300 miles of
breathtaking shoreline, there are numerous locations perfect for tying the knot with a splash of nautical style. For those of you seeking something intimate, perhaps a ceremony on the open water
is something to consider. Rent a boat and take your closest friends and family for a cruise at sunset while you declare your vows. Have your ceremony in nostalgic Ephraim and enjoy an amazing
view of Eagle Harbor as you walk down the aisle at Anderson Dock. You can even say your “I do’s” atop a lighthouse with your guests gathered below. Anchors aweigh!
So you’re pulling out all the stops and hosting a magnificent evening of celebration? Well look no further than Door County for fancy frills and elegant escapes. Select the church of your choice, a
lush golf course, romantic garden, or rent a private home on the shore for your ceremony. Perhaps you would rather have the ceremony and reception in one location. With a variety of fine resorts,
you’re sure to find the ideal location. Allow Door County’s expert chefs to create culinary masterpieces for you and your guests to savor as a live band carries the celebratory spirit on into the night.
Make it a weekend event your guests will never forget with a variety of recreational activities from sailing to horseback riding, mini golf, shopping and more!
The Honeymoon
Once you and your love have tied the knot you’ll both be ready for some time away. For the romance, rest, and relaxation you seek as newlyweds, look no further than Door County. Stay at a
whimsical bed & breakfast or rent a secluded vacation home. Take a scenic airplane tour, hop aboard segways and explore the County or simply bask in the beauty and tranquility of the Peninsula
and surrounding islands! This is a time to cherish and make memories that will last a lifetime. With a variety of lodging packages designed to suit your newlywed needs, why wait?
Ideas
Take a day to escape to the spa together. Melt away the demands of everyday
life and soothe sore muscles with a couple’s massage or try acupuncture. Door
County is where you’ll find a variety of professional, welcoming spas offering the
perfect mix of rest and relaxation for you both.
Attend a concert. From symphony to big band jazz, reggae and classic rock, to
country and folk, Door County is an eclectic cultural hotspot that draws worldrenowned musicians to perform in our intimate auditoriums and outdoor venues.
Take the ferry to Washington Island. Spend the day exploring the area by moped or
hop aboard the Cherry Train for a tour of one of the oldest Icelandic communities
in the United States. Perhaps you’d rather stay awhile — bask in the peace and
quiet of the island with a variety of lodging options guaranteed to suit all tastes
and budgets.
Do something adventurous together. Rent jet-skis, try parasailing or soar through
the tree tops on a zip line.
Join us year-round for seasonal celebrations. If your honeymoon is in the spring,
celebrate the cherry blossoms and blooms, enjoy art and craft fairs and much
more! If you plan on arriving in summer, there’s a variety of events held to
celebrate the culture, bounty, and spirit of the season. As fall arrives and the trees
begin to turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange, we gather outdoors to
welcome harvest in communities throughout the County. The cool, crisp winter
months don’t stop us either; come join the friendly faces of Door County for
candlelit ski and hiking events.
The Anniversary
Whether you’re celebrating one year of marriage, three years, or thirty — Door County is the perfect location to mark your wedded milestone. Take a chance to get away from the demands of
day-to-day life with your loved one and travel to Door County for the perfect balance of rest, romance, and adventure. Book a night, a weekend, a week or more! Enjoy each other’s company while
exploring all Door County has to offer and live in the moment. Camp in the quiet countryside or on the waterfront. Cozy up at a bed and breakfast or unwind in luxury at a resort. Whatever your
taste and budget, Door County is sure to offer you and yours some of the most unforgettable memories.
Ideas
Cruise 66 scenic miles known as the Door County Coastal Byway.
Stop and visit state parks, county parks, historic lighthouses, and
orchards as you meander. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll be
astounded by scenic vistas of Lake Michigan, the Bay of Green Bay,
the Niagara Escarpment, and dense forests that lie along the way.
Pull over and walk the streets of quaint towns and villages where
you will find shops, galleries, theaters and more!
Rent a kayak and paddle along the Niagara Escarpment. Keep your
eyes open for Bald Eagles as you take in the view of limestone
cliffs and fern covered bluffs that tower overhead. For those less
experienced, join a group tour and explore the sea caves of Cave
Point County Park located on Lake Michigan.
From Shakespeare’s classics to the smash hits of Broadway and
original theater, your trip to Door County isn’t complete without an
evening at one of the county’s renowned theatrical venues. With
settings ranging from main street downtown to shoreside stages
nestled under the trees, the performing arts are a staple of our
culture and entertainment that you simply cannot miss.
Attend a traditional Door County Fish Boil to see what visitors, travel
columnists and foodies worldwide are talking about. Perhaps it’s the
fiery display that occurs when the pot boils over signaling dinner
is ready. Maybe it’s the fresh locally harvested whitefish that have
made this time-honored tradition carry on for generations. Either
way, everyone agrees it’s not only a sight to see but also a flavor
to savor!
Spend a day sampling all the treats, treasures and culinary creations
Door County has to offer. Taste locally produced artisan cheese,
sip wine produced from fruit and grapes grown right here on the
Peninsula and indulge in fresh made fudge. Step foot in an oilerie for
a complimentary taste test of a world famous olive oil varietal or a
flavorful balsamic vinegar. Try Door County cherry products ranging
from dried cherries to donuts, salsa, barbecue sauce and more!
Wedding Checklist
Congratulations! You said YES - you’re getting married! Whether it’s a large wedding or small, there is always some planning to be done. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we have you
covered. From 9 - 12 months before the date, down to the final days beforehand and beyond, this comprehensive timeline checklist will help you stay on track.
9 - 12 months prior
q Announce your engagement
q Choose the date of your wedding
q Reserve venues for the ceremony and reception
q Create a wedding binder to keep everything organized
q Determine the budget and who will cover the cost of what
q Select the members of your wedding party
q Decide the style and formality of your day (formal, semi-formal, informal, etc.)
q Research photographers, florists, bakers, caterers, and entertainment
q Begin drafting the guest list
q If you wish, throw an engagement party to celebrate
6-9 months prior
q Hire a wedding photographer and videographer
q Book entertainment (DJ, band, etc.)
q Hire a catering service
q Register for gifts
q Reserve overnight accommodations for out-of-town guests (price ranges should vary)
q Book an officiant
q Select the bridesmaids dresses and corresponding accessories
q Begin shopping for your dream dress and accessories
q Book the honeymoon
4-6 months prior
q Make arrangements for rental items (flatware, china, tents, chairs, etc.)
q Select and order wedding invitations
q Order the wedding cake
q Speak with your caterer regarding menu options
q Choose the wedding favors
q Confirm the bridesmaids have ordered their dresses and accessories
q Decide the style of the groom’s tux and what the groomsmen will wear
q Compile ideas for how your hair will be styled and your makeup will be done
q Confirm the dates of your bridal shower and bachelor/bachelorette parties
q Organize any additional help and management staff (readers, musicians, babysitters, etc.)
q If you wish, secure wedding insurance
q Purchase your wedding rings
2-4 months prior
q Select the location of the rehearsal dinner and finalize plans for the evening
q Finalize the guest list
q Mail the wedding invitations (approx. 8 weeks before the wedding date)
q Finalize the menu with your catering service
q Select music for the ceremony and reception
q Book a hairstylist and makeup artist
q Confirm tuxes for the groom and groomsmen have been ordered
q Make transportation arrangements for you, the wedding party and guests as needed
q Purchase gifts for each other, the wedding party, your parents, and the host/hostesses of your parties
(wedding shower, bachelor, bachelorette)
q Check the gift registry to be sure there are enough options remaining
q Organize bank accounts, insurance, and the merging of your finances
q Begin preparing for your honeymoon
1-2 months prior
q Go in for a bridal gown fitting and schedule a final fitting 1-2 weeks prior to your big day
q Design the wedding programs and have them printed
q Finalize the ceremony with the officiant
q Make arrangements for any “pre-wedding” parties
q Write vows
q Prepare a list of photo and video shots for the photographer/videographer
q Check the requirements for a marriage license in your state
q Finalize all details with wedding service providers
q Begin planning the seating arrangement for the reception
3-4 weeks prior
q Obtain a marriage license (no more than 30 days before the wedding)
q Make name change arrangements
q Send invitations for the rehearsal dinner
q Meet with the hairstylist and makeup artist to discuss looks
q Confirm accommodations with out-of-town guests
1-2 weeks prior
q Make all final payments as needed
q Go in for a final bridal gown fitting
q Finalize the wedding schedule and distribute it as needed (parents, vendors, etc.)
q Pick-up the wedding dress and organize all accessories
q Compile a contact list of all wedding vendors in case of emergency
q Reconfirm all the plans for your big day (ceremony and reception venues, florists,
photographer/videographer, entertainment, catering service, etc.)
q Provide the catering service with a final head count
q Provide the wedding party and guests with an itinerary and maps if needed
q Put someone in charge of your pets, mail, etc. while you’re away on your honeymoon
q Finalize seating arrangements for the reception and prepare place cards
q Make “wedding” and “reception” boxes
q Confirm rental and floral orders along with their deliveries
q Begin packing for the wedding night and honeymoon
The day prior
q Prepare payment envelopes and allocate who is responsible for each one
q Give rings to the best man
q Gather the wedding dress and accessories
q Pamper yourself — go to the salon for a manicure, pedicure, and massage
q Rehearse the ceremony with the officiant and wedding party
q Confirm honeymoon arrangements
The big day
q Get your hair styled and makeup done
q Confirm the rings and wedding license are present
After the wedding
q Have your wedding dress cleaned and preserved
q Preserve your bouquet
q Write and send out thank you notes to all guests
q Complete the name change process
q Finalize albums/videos with the photographer/videographer
The Lodge at Leathem Smith
Lodging ~ Weddings ~ Rehearsals
1640 Memorial Drive, Sturgeon Bay
920.743.5555
www.thelodgeatls.com
Capture the Essence of Door County
Every storybook wedding deserves a great beginning.
The Landmark Resort is an enchanted place.
We offer a variety of banquet rooms and outdoor settings.
Imaginative food selections. Impeccable service.
4929 Landmark Drive
Egg Harbor, WI 54209
800-273-7877
Assisting couples
for 15 years.
(920) 839-1114
WWW.DOORCOUNTYEVENTS.COM
CARRIE BALDWIN SMITH
“Your special day ...
our exceptional
venues”
w w w. E p h r a i m - D o o r C o u n t y. c o m | ( 9 2 0 ) 8 5 4 - 4 9 8 9
DOOR COUNTY
Inn Wedding
Picturesque Ephraim venues from
waterfront to the church on the hill
• One convenient location for ceremony,
reception and accommodations 2–72 people
• Unique and charming Bed & Breakfast
rooms and elegant whirlpool suites
•
9914 Water Street, Ephraim, WI • 920-854-2121 • 800-324-5427 • eagleharborinn.com
MacReady Artisan Bread
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Picnic Weddings
Casual Rehearsal Dinners
Morning After Brunches
FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS • OPEN DAILY
7838 Hwy. 42 • Egg Harbor, WI • 868-2233 • www.macreadybreadcompany.com
For a complete listing of wedding vendors and properties in Door County, visit DoorCounty.com/Weddings.
Make your wedding dreams a reality in Door County. For additional information, call the
Door County Visitor Bureau at 800.527.3529 or visit Door County.com/Weddings.
DoorCounty.com | 800.527.3529 | [email protected]