2018 Midwest Wedding Vendors

There are so many things that I would do differently if I were getting married again (to my Superman, of course).  Not only knowing more about the industry than a fresh-out-of-college graphic design student would, but knowing specific vendors who I would want to work with.

So I have decided to have list (updated annually) of my preferred vendors—who would I want to work with for my big day—people who create quality work in a style that I find relevant to today's wedding trends (just say "no" to the pom-pom style wedding bouquets), and people who I know that I can trust.

 
Find the Top Midwest Wedding Vendors for 2018.  A complete list by wedding professional, Katrina Crouch, the artist behind Blushed Design: Wedding Invitations and Fine Art Portraits
 

WEDDING PLANNER:

Rhiannon Bosse | Full service; Day of Coordinating; Florals
I love her sense of style and the way she runs the show.  I recently listened to a podcast style Instagram-live and I loved what I heard/learned.  She is organized and thinks ahead, which is exactly what you want in a wedding planner.
Ines & Marie | Full service; Day of Coordinating; Styling
Romantic and elegant.  They run a full show and can offer help with florals, paper goods, styling and renting furniture

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Samantha James Photography
A recent discovery for me, but I was instantly hooked!  One thing I can definitely say that I regret from our wedding day was not taking the time to look for a quality photographer.  You have that with Samantha, and she's a sweetheart to boot!
Kristen Cloyd Photography
I love this girl!  Based in Chicago, I love her light and airy style as well as her personable and genuine heart.  A newer photographer to the field, she is quickly making a name for herself

Honorable Mention:
If she had not moved down south, than I would probably call Alison Chang for our photographer.  I've worked with her in the past and absolutely loved the finished results and how she was able to help everyone relax and feel comfortable.

FLORIST:

A Day Design | Florals; Event Planning
If I chose one of the planners above, I would likely use their floral services, but I do often find myself crusting over Shelby's work.  I haven't worked with her myself, but she has a great reputation.
Curtsy and Bow | Florals; Planning
I have had the pleasure of working with Robin on a styled shoot this past year.  She is a doll, very personable and down to earth, and her bouquets were stunning.  Definitely my favorite part of the entire shoot.

VENUE:

The Detroit Institute of Arts | Walter B. Ford Great Hall
The hubby and I are both artists and I can't believe that I didn't think of this venue when we were married a few years ago!  I love the idea of celebrating in this beautiful environment with the white marble and the elegant pillars... I would definitely consider having our ceremony and pictures taken here!
Greenfield Village; The Henry Ford
I am a history lover, and one of my favorite places in the world is Greenfield Village.  For an outdoor ceremony, I would probably choose Pennsylvania Courtyard or the Coltswold Cottage.  The Lovett Hall Ballroom would be a beautiful reception location—and I love the idea of pictures in the Prechter Promenade.

WEDDING INVITATIONS:

Blushed Design| Custom Wedding Invitations and Fine Art Portraits
Of course, I would design my own wedding invitations!  I did originally, but there is a lot that I would change if we were getting married again.  Can you say "handmade paper"? haha
If you are interested in starting your custom wedding stationery design process, I would love to hear more about your story and the dreams you have for your big day! 

SOMETHING UNEXPECTED:

Unlike Juliet | Wedding Magazines
Betsy is a gem and we have been instagram buddies for a few years now.  Her wedding magazines are brilliant and I am hoping to snag one of her business versions in the near future!