Matt & Munkii got married!
Vendor Reviews!
There are a lot of high marks, but in our vendors' defense, they were outstanding! We could not have picked a better group if we had to do it over again. I think this is everything but will update it if I remember something.
This list is in alphabetical order according to the service.
Band: Sol Jalisciencie: A+
The band went out of their way to make sure everyone had a fabulous time! The members participated in all the impromptu songs that the families requested and were more than willing to take requests. In addition, they stayed longer than their contracted time at no extra charge. FYI, if you need to hire a mariachi and would like to meet this group, you can usually find them at Adobo on Thursday nights from 6pm - 9pm or at various events throughout the city (usually hosted by the consulate or various arts organizations).
Cake: Blu Boy Cafe & Cakery: A+
For us, bakeries in Indianapolis were not good enough: we didn't want faux buttercream (either vegetable shortening or cream cheese) or frozen cake. Blu Boy in Bloomington makes real Swiss meringue buttercream--if you taste it, you will understand why this is important in both taste and texture. The other reason we like them is that they use many local ingredients. The most surprising thing to me is that the cost of the cake including delivery and set up was hardly anymore than a local bakery would have charged--and they traveled from over an hour away! The cake was delicious and I couldn't have asked for better results. Also, they coordinated their delivery and set-up with the event manager at the restaurant which took the load off our shoulders.
Cake Topper: The Pink Penguin: A+
I ordered the cake topper from The Pink Penguin in haste because I was worried the original desired cake topper wouldn't come through in time. We're so glad I ordered it! The other topper did come in on time, but this topper was too cute (the monkey groom even had a little bobble head). This seller is highly, highly recommended.
Ceremony Site/Room Block: Hilton Garden Inn - Downtown: A+
Marcy, Jose, and the staff at HGI are extremely accomodating--whenever we needed anything (like extra keys made or a room vacuumed, they were on it. They gave us the ceremony room from the Thursday before the wedding through the Sunday after without extra charges, and the staff helped set up the decor. Also, although there was a big convention in Indy the weekend of the wedding, they were willing to contract 20 rooms for the hotel block. They offer free coffee and tea service in the lobby (so there's no need to go to Starbucks across the street), and they upgraded me to a suite without an additional charge. Plus, the interior and exterior architecture and design is so beautiful that it worked perfectly as a backdrop for many of our photos. Added bonus: if you are looking for an environmentally friendly hotel, check out their Green Blog--this hotel even has solar panels!
Crinoline: Angel's Bridal: B+
The crinoline they shipped is in great condition, and they hardly charged a dime (including shipping). The only reason they're getting a B+ is because the crinoline was extremely smelly. After airing out for about a week, an hour long soak in a bleach-water combo, a cycle through the washer with regular detergent, and another week long air dry, it's perfect.
DJ& Emcee: Ryan & Andrea Crozier,thesimpledj: A+
Ryan and Andrea went above and beyond at both the ceremony and the reception. At the ceremony, Andrea worked as a coordinator to ensure everyone entered the room at the right time. At the reception, they worked around the schedule that went off schedule (majorly) and got it back on schedule. Also, even though they work off a music list you choose, they still feel out the crowd and play what they find to be most appropriate off your list--which is key at most reception, especially ours. They were sentimental in their speech and encouraged participation by all without being hokey or over-the-top. Their unique style also allows great flexibility in their set-up: they work with you! FYI, if you're interested in a DIY-iPod wedding, they rent out equipment specifically for that too.
Dress (plus alterations): Bridal Superstore by Posie Patch: A+
I am not going to lie: I was terrified to try on dresses. This store is huge, but well organized. My consultant, Melanie, was awesome! She worked with me at all 3 of my appointments, she made a call to the manufacturer and got them to agree to make a change to the dress that typically isn't allowed, and she wasn't pushy. Melanie went above and beyond, and I cannot recommend her enough. Also, if you don't have the opportunity to work with my consultant, all the consultants I had contact with were extremely pleasant, professional, and accomodating.
The seamstress is extremely professional and talented. The price was a little higher than I would have preferred, but my dress isn't the easiest to work with (pleated bust, layered ruffles in various fabrics). She had to take in the bust, take off 1" inch off the hem, and build in a bustle--everything turned out fantastically. Also, for those terified of the bustle, she made the ties color-coded to remove any confusion.
Flowers: Enflora: B-
I waited until crunch time to book a florist. Enflora took on the challenge for a very reasonable fee, including delivery. Since I gave a very clear vision, including photos, to the designer, it was pretty easy for them to let me know if my vision was attainable or if things had to be changed. Although the order was placed last minute, it arrived on time at the designated area. The reason for the grade is that, although the flowers were beautiful and pretty much what I envisioned, the colors were slightly off and many arrangements fell apart before the end of the night--actually, they started falling apart from the moment we touched them. For example, several of the wired orchids in my bouquet fell out, my father's bout completely came apart, the monkey tail in DH's bout came off, and a few dahlias were lifeless.
Groom's Suit (plus alterations): Men's Wearhouse: A-
The suit is beautiful and it came at a great price. However, their sales people are pushy! We stopped by for a wedding suit not two million other things: upselling can be annoying. Also, the suit was ready after the guaranteed date of return post-alterations. Even after the negatives, though, they came through by pressing my father's suit for free although he purchased it elsewhere. We also purchased the fathers' and BM's tie there.
Hair: Studio 2000: A+
I waited until the last minute to set up hair appointments for everyone, but Studio 2000 was more than willing to take on the last minute challenge. There was no wait time, their charges were exceptionally reasonable, they worked very quickly, and the entire staff was extremely friendly. Also, they are located on Monument Circle which makes it a very attractive salon location for downtown brides. Bonus: their hairspray smells like vanilla and chocolate :)
Ketubah: MP Artworks: A+
MP Artworks has an awesome selections of ketubahs (not hokey old-timey ones...ok, they may have a few). Overall, they offer a very modern look. Plus, they have fast service and turn-around time. Our ketubah arrived just under three weeks from the time we ordered it--however, that includes the time it took for us to get it approved by our Rabbi and personalization. The piece is beautiful and perfect. Also, they have a lot of useful information about ketubahs and text if you are unfamiliar with the item and the process.
Linens: TableClothsFactory.com: A+
We ordered navy crinkle taffeta table runners for TCF with expedited shipping, and they came through. The runners were a perfect complement to the backdrop of the restaurant. The best thing about TCF is that they charged a lot less than a party company would have charged just for renting them.
Make-up: Beauty by Crystal: A+
Crystal is amazing! When I had my trial (which was part of our initial meeting), I knew she would do a fabulous job on everyone--and no one was let down the day of. She's extremely friendly and works wonders on everyone she touches. A great example of this was in my mom: she never wears make-up but she still looked completely natural (just more alive and sharp) after Crystal did her magic. Her rates are very affordable, she shows up early, and she answers any questions you may have before and on the day of. If you let her, she'll play music to add to the ambiance and create a relaxing environment to ease your stresses. Also, she is very dedicated to her work and does not give the vibe that she's there for the money.
Nails: Grace Nails, Carmel, IN: A
The express mani-pedi at 39$ is a steal! They were fast, gave a great massage, and had me in and out in less than 30 minutes. The downside was that they didn't seem excited or happy that anyone was there.
Photography, Engagement: Manuel Crispin, Photo Palma: A+
Manuel is fun, professional, and has a great eye. His studio is in Bloomington, IL, but he does work in many places. Matt and I decided last minute to do e-pics, and although Manuel's calendar was packed, he traveled to Indianapolis during the week to take our pics (Manuel = extremely accomodating). Highly, highly, highly (times infinite) recommended.
Photography, Wedding: Manuel Crispin, Photo Palma: A+
Manuel has impressed us since day one. He's extremely professional but also laid back and fun. Here's why he got an 'A+' for our wedding photos: 1) he was early, 2) he brought an assistant even though we only contracted him alone, 3) he worked very well under some unexpected time constraints we faced, 4) he exhibited a lot of initiative in taking photos that were unexpected (the work of a true photojournalist!), and 5) he was full of great energy (which contributed to #4). One of the reasons we hired Manuel in the beginning is because he is bi-lingual (English/Spanish) which made certain photo capturing moments easier to obtain with my non-English speaking family.
In the end, photos (and video if you go that route) are what will keep the day fresh in your mind years down the road--after seeing the photos he and his assistant took, I know I will never forget our very special day.
Reception Site/Catering: Adobo: A+
If you ever need any type of party site, I HIGHLY recommend Adobo. George Muñoz, the main restaurant manager/event manager, went above and beyond in working with our visions to create the best ever event, and Francisco, a manager at Adobo, did a wonderful job in directing the staff in how to set up the decor. The food was amazing, the ambiance was amazing, and the entire staff was willing to do anything and everything to make sure things went smoothly. One example is that the chef created many vegetarian (non-menu_ dishes for us to try and add to the menu==which was perfect since I am vegetarian. Also, the bar manager created several wild hibiscus drinks (also, previously, a non-menu item) for us to try and, ultimately, declare our signature drink.
Rehearsal Dinner: BARcelona: B+
BARcelona is one of my favorite spots in Indy: they have great food and a great atmosphere. However, they also have the policy that if you book the sole private room in the facility and another larger group wants to make a reservation for the same room, they bump you out into the main (exceptionally loud) dining area. That policy is what turns their "A" rating to a "B+". A lot of people would rank them lower due to this policy, but I'm laying some of the blame on the ILs because they failed to increase the number of the reservation when we told them to increase it several weeks in advance.
Transportation: Carey Limo: A+
Although Carey is an international company, their local sales staff was very accommodating to our unique needs. We had international family arriving the night of the rehearsal dinner, and half of them were delayed due to unexpected circumstances. The Carey driver was very helpful in notifying us of the situation and facilitated the communication between the bride's father and the travelers. After dropping them off, he even took time off to let them pose and take many pictures with his car--which was very exciting for them.
Various Paper Goods: Vista Print: A+
We have used Vista Print for Brunch Invitations, a local restaurant guide, magnets, PhotoShare cards, and are still using them for other items. Everything gets shipped relatively quickly, and there have been zero quality issues. The fact that everything is free besides S/H is a plus.
Veil: Enchantment 4 All: A+
Sometimes you see lace-edged veils online that have a very visible seem between the tulle (or other veil material) and the lace. My veil from Enchantment 4 All definitely doesn't have this look. It has clean lines, is not stiff, and, overall, is perfect. Shipping from the seller was extremely fast, and I highly recommend their mantilla veils to all brides. (I cannot rate their other products.)
There are a lot of high marks, but in our vendors' defense, they were outstanding! We could not have picked a better group if we had to do it over again. I think this is everything but will update it if I remember something.
This list is in alphabetical order according to the service.
Band: Sol Jalisciencie: A+
The band went out of their way to make sure everyone had a fabulous time! The members participated in all the impromptu songs that the families requested and were more than willing to take requests. In addition, they stayed longer than their contracted time at no extra charge. FYI, if you need to hire a mariachi and would like to meet this group, you can usually find them at Adobo on Thursday nights from 6pm - 9pm or at various events throughout the city (usually hosted by the consulate or various arts organizations).
Cake: Blu Boy Cafe & Cakery: A+
For us, bakeries in Indianapolis were not good enough: we didn't want faux buttercream (either vegetable shortening or cream cheese) or frozen cake. Blu Boy in Bloomington makes real Swiss meringue buttercream--if you taste it, you will understand why this is important in both taste and texture. The other reason we like them is that they use many local ingredients. The most surprising thing to me is that the cost of the cake including delivery and set up was hardly anymore than a local bakery would have charged--and they traveled from over an hour away! The cake was delicious and I couldn't have asked for better results. Also, they coordinated their delivery and set-up with the event manager at the restaurant which took the load off our shoulders.
Cake Topper: The Pink Penguin: A+
I ordered the cake topper from The Pink Penguin in haste because I was worried the original desired cake topper wouldn't come through in time. We're so glad I ordered it! The other topper did come in on time, but this topper was too cute (the monkey groom even had a little bobble head). This seller is highly, highly recommended.
Ceremony Site/Room Block: Hilton Garden Inn - Downtown: A+
Marcy, Jose, and the staff at HGI are extremely accomodating--whenever we needed anything (like extra keys made or a room vacuumed, they were on it. They gave us the ceremony room from the Thursday before the wedding through the Sunday after without extra charges, and the staff helped set up the decor. Also, although there was a big convention in Indy the weekend of the wedding, they were willing to contract 20 rooms for the hotel block. They offer free coffee and tea service in the lobby (so there's no need to go to Starbucks across the street), and they upgraded me to a suite without an additional charge. Plus, the interior and exterior architecture and design is so beautiful that it worked perfectly as a backdrop for many of our photos. Added bonus: if you are looking for an environmentally friendly hotel, check out their Green Blog--this hotel even has solar panels!
Crinoline: Angel's Bridal: B+
The crinoline they shipped is in great condition, and they hardly charged a dime (including shipping). The only reason they're getting a B+ is because the crinoline was extremely smelly. After airing out for about a week, an hour long soak in a bleach-water combo, a cycle through the washer with regular detergent, and another week long air dry, it's perfect.
DJ& Emcee: Ryan & Andrea Crozier,thesimpledj: A+
Ryan and Andrea went above and beyond at both the ceremony and the reception. At the ceremony, Andrea worked as a coordinator to ensure everyone entered the room at the right time. At the reception, they worked around the schedule that went off schedule (majorly) and got it back on schedule. Also, even though they work off a music list you choose, they still feel out the crowd and play what they find to be most appropriate off your list--which is key at most reception, especially ours. They were sentimental in their speech and encouraged participation by all without being hokey or over-the-top. Their unique style also allows great flexibility in their set-up: they work with you! FYI, if you're interested in a DIY-iPod wedding, they rent out equipment specifically for that too.
Dress (plus alterations): Bridal Superstore by Posie Patch: A+
I am not going to lie: I was terrified to try on dresses. This store is huge, but well organized. My consultant, Melanie, was awesome! She worked with me at all 3 of my appointments, she made a call to the manufacturer and got them to agree to make a change to the dress that typically isn't allowed, and she wasn't pushy. Melanie went above and beyond, and I cannot recommend her enough. Also, if you don't have the opportunity to work with my consultant, all the consultants I had contact with were extremely pleasant, professional, and accomodating.
The seamstress is extremely professional and talented. The price was a little higher than I would have preferred, but my dress isn't the easiest to work with (pleated bust, layered ruffles in various fabrics). She had to take in the bust, take off 1" inch off the hem, and build in a bustle--everything turned out fantastically. Also, for those terified of the bustle, she made the ties color-coded to remove any confusion.
Flowers: Enflora: B-
I waited until crunch time to book a florist. Enflora took on the challenge for a very reasonable fee, including delivery. Since I gave a very clear vision, including photos, to the designer, it was pretty easy for them to let me know if my vision was attainable or if things had to be changed. Although the order was placed last minute, it arrived on time at the designated area. The reason for the grade is that, although the flowers were beautiful and pretty much what I envisioned, the colors were slightly off and many arrangements fell apart before the end of the night--actually, they started falling apart from the moment we touched them. For example, several of the wired orchids in my bouquet fell out, my father's bout completely came apart, the monkey tail in DH's bout came off, and a few dahlias were lifeless.
Groom's Suit (plus alterations): Men's Wearhouse: A-
The suit is beautiful and it came at a great price. However, their sales people are pushy! We stopped by for a wedding suit not two million other things: upselling can be annoying. Also, the suit was ready after the guaranteed date of return post-alterations. Even after the negatives, though, they came through by pressing my father's suit for free although he purchased it elsewhere. We also purchased the fathers' and BM's tie there.
Hair: Studio 2000: A+
I waited until the last minute to set up hair appointments for everyone, but Studio 2000 was more than willing to take on the last minute challenge. There was no wait time, their charges were exceptionally reasonable, they worked very quickly, and the entire staff was extremely friendly. Also, they are located on Monument Circle which makes it a very attractive salon location for downtown brides. Bonus: their hairspray smells like vanilla and chocolate :)
Ketubah: MP Artworks: A+
MP Artworks has an awesome selections of ketubahs (not hokey old-timey ones...ok, they may have a few). Overall, they offer a very modern look. Plus, they have fast service and turn-around time. Our ketubah arrived just under three weeks from the time we ordered it--however, that includes the time it took for us to get it approved by our Rabbi and personalization. The piece is beautiful and perfect. Also, they have a lot of useful information about ketubahs and text if you are unfamiliar with the item and the process.
Linens: TableClothsFactory.com: A+
We ordered navy crinkle taffeta table runners for TCF with expedited shipping, and they came through. The runners were a perfect complement to the backdrop of the restaurant. The best thing about TCF is that they charged a lot less than a party company would have charged just for renting them.
Make-up: Beauty by Crystal: A+
Crystal is amazing! When I had my trial (which was part of our initial meeting), I knew she would do a fabulous job on everyone--and no one was let down the day of. She's extremely friendly and works wonders on everyone she touches. A great example of this was in my mom: she never wears make-up but she still looked completely natural (just more alive and sharp) after Crystal did her magic. Her rates are very affordable, she shows up early, and she answers any questions you may have before and on the day of. If you let her, she'll play music to add to the ambiance and create a relaxing environment to ease your stresses. Also, she is very dedicated to her work and does not give the vibe that she's there for the money.
Nails: Grace Nails, Carmel, IN: A
The express mani-pedi at 39$ is a steal! They were fast, gave a great massage, and had me in and out in less than 30 minutes. The downside was that they didn't seem excited or happy that anyone was there.
Photography, Engagement: Manuel Crispin, Photo Palma: A+
Manuel is fun, professional, and has a great eye. His studio is in Bloomington, IL, but he does work in many places. Matt and I decided last minute to do e-pics, and although Manuel's calendar was packed, he traveled to Indianapolis during the week to take our pics (Manuel = extremely accomodating). Highly, highly, highly (times infinite) recommended.
Photography, Wedding: Manuel Crispin, Photo Palma: A+
Manuel has impressed us since day one. He's extremely professional but also laid back and fun. Here's why he got an 'A+' for our wedding photos: 1) he was early, 2) he brought an assistant even though we only contracted him alone, 3) he worked very well under some unexpected time constraints we faced, 4) he exhibited a lot of initiative in taking photos that were unexpected (the work of a true photojournalist!), and 5) he was full of great energy (which contributed to #4). One of the reasons we hired Manuel in the beginning is because he is bi-lingual (English/Spanish) which made certain photo capturing moments easier to obtain with my non-English speaking family.
In the end, photos (and video if you go that route) are what will keep the day fresh in your mind years down the road--after seeing the photos he and his assistant took, I know I will never forget our very special day.
Reception Site/Catering: Adobo: A+
If you ever need any type of party site, I HIGHLY recommend Adobo. George Muñoz, the main restaurant manager/event manager, went above and beyond in working with our visions to create the best ever event, and Francisco, a manager at Adobo, did a wonderful job in directing the staff in how to set up the decor. The food was amazing, the ambiance was amazing, and the entire staff was willing to do anything and everything to make sure things went smoothly. One example is that the chef created many vegetarian (non-menu_ dishes for us to try and add to the menu==which was perfect since I am vegetarian. Also, the bar manager created several wild hibiscus drinks (also, previously, a non-menu item) for us to try and, ultimately, declare our signature drink.
Rehearsal Dinner: BARcelona: B+
BARcelona is one of my favorite spots in Indy: they have great food and a great atmosphere. However, they also have the policy that if you book the sole private room in the facility and another larger group wants to make a reservation for the same room, they bump you out into the main (exceptionally loud) dining area. That policy is what turns their "A" rating to a "B+". A lot of people would rank them lower due to this policy, but I'm laying some of the blame on the ILs because they failed to increase the number of the reservation when we told them to increase it several weeks in advance.
Transportation: Carey Limo: A+
Although Carey is an international company, their local sales staff was very accommodating to our unique needs. We had international family arriving the night of the rehearsal dinner, and half of them were delayed due to unexpected circumstances. The Carey driver was very helpful in notifying us of the situation and facilitated the communication between the bride's father and the travelers. After dropping them off, he even took time off to let them pose and take many pictures with his car--which was very exciting for them.
Various Paper Goods: Vista Print: A+
We have used Vista Print for Brunch Invitations, a local restaurant guide, magnets, PhotoShare cards, and are still using them for other items. Everything gets shipped relatively quickly, and there have been zero quality issues. The fact that everything is free besides S/H is a plus.
Veil: Enchantment 4 All: A+
Sometimes you see lace-edged veils online that have a very visible seem between the tulle (or other veil material) and the lace. My veil from Enchantment 4 All definitely doesn't have this look. It has clean lines, is not stiff, and, overall, is perfect. Shipping from the seller was extremely fast, and I highly recommend their mantilla veils to all brides. (I cannot rate their other products.)
