Planning Your Perfect Wedding at Novellas: Your Complete Wedding Journey
Congratulations on choosing Novellas for your special day! We've helped countless couples bring their dream weddings to life, and we're excited to guide you through every step of the planning process. Here's your comprehensive guide to planning the perfect Novellas wedding.
Step 1: Understanding Your Timeline
Creating the perfect wedding day schedule is crucial. Here's how we typically structure the day:
For a 5-10 PM Wedding:
1:00-2:00 PM: First look photography begins
2:00-4:00 PM: Wedding party photos
3:30 PM: Groom and groomsmen prepare to greet guests
4:00 PM: Guest arrival begins
4:25 PM: Guests seated for ceremony
4:35-4:40 PM: Ceremony begins
5:00 PM: Cocktail hour starts
6:00 PM: Reception begins
Pro tip: Consider seasonal sunset times when planning your photography schedule!
Step 2: The Morning Experience
Start your day in style with access to our luxurious bridal suite:
Three complimentary hours before guest arrival
Additional hours available at $100/hour
Complimentary beverage service including:
Beer
Seltzers
Prosecco
Mimosas
Water
Dedicated staff member for assistance
Custom music playlist welcome
BYO breakfast and coffee options
Step 3: Photography Planning
First Look Options:
On-Site Photography
Beautiful venue grounds
Private moments in our elegant spaces
Seamless transition to ceremony
Off-Site Locations
Mohonk Gatehouse (registration and fee required)
Jean Hasbrouck House (colonial charm)
Tamney House (historic setting)
Lloyd Waterfront (riverfront views)
River to Ridge Trail (natural landscapes)
Local apple orchards (seasonal beauty)
Step 4: Ceremony Details
Traditional Processional Order:
Officiant, Best Man & Groom at altar
Groom's parents
Mother of the Bride (with escort)
Paired bridesmaids and groomsmen
Maid of Honor
Flower girl/Ring Bearer
Bride & Father
Remember: We're flexible with processional orders – ask about alternatives!
Step 5: Menu Creation
Cocktail Hour:
Select 6 passed hors d'oeuvres
Full bar service
Optional specialty cocktails
Dinner Options:
Buffet Service Includes:
Seasonal mixed vegetables
Choice of salad
Choice of starch
Pasta selection
Chicken entrée
Fish entrée
Beef entrée
Plated Service Includes:
Plated salad
Choice of:
Chicken entrée
Fish entrée
Beef entrée
Dessert:
Wedding cake from Pastry Garden (included)
Optional additional dessert services available
Step 6: Floor Plan & Seating
Table Planning Tips:
Group guests in tables of 6-12
60" rounds: Perfect for 6-9 guests
72" rounds: Ideal for 10-12 guests
Maximum 19 tables with 4 rows
Custom diagram provided for planning
Important: Submit final guest count and payment two weeks before wedding
Step 7: Vendor Coordination
We work seamlessly with your chosen vendors:
DJ/MC
Photographer
Videographer
Florist
Additional specialty vendors
Step 8: After-Party Options
Choose Your Perfect Ending:
Complimentary Option:
Patio access
BYOB welcome
Outdoor gathering space
Ballroom Extension:
Extended bar service
Continued dance floor access
Full venue amenities
Foyer Package:
Cocktail bar reopens
Indoor/outdoor flow
Intimate gathering space
Planning Tips & Reminders:
Dietary restrictions due with final guest count
Seating chart completion one week before wedding
Vendor contact information needed for coordination
Non-biodegradable items not permitted during ceremony
Real flower petals and bubbles welcome
Next Steps
Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Contact our team to:
Confirm your date
Schedule a detailed planning meeting
Begin creating your perfect wedding timeline
Start designing your menu
Remember, our experienced team is here to guide you through every decision, answer any questions, and ensure your wedding day is absolutely perfect. Contact us today to begin your wedding planning journey at Novellas.
