Folks, let me introduce you to an amazing professional in the wedding industry and beyond, Danielle!  She is an experienced licensed esthetician, makeup artist and educator. Danielle and I work out of the same cute little downtown, Holly, Michigan. Danielle has a big heart for allowing folks to be their authentic selves. I was thrilled when Danielle was available to guest write for my blog so that all of you can share in her extensive knowledge. 

Let's dig in...

How to Look your Best but still feel like yourself on your wedding day

Before I jump into what I want you to know about makeup for your wedding…I want to do something weird together right off the bat. 

I want you to put your left hand on your heart and your right hand on your belly. Which hand is moving with your breath? If its your left hand, I want you to consciously release your jaw. Let your shoulders relax. Unclench the parts of you that you can feel are all bunched up. Try to take your next big breath and feel it with your right hand. Did you feel the difference? 

If you’re reading this blog right now, you might be in the planning stages of your marriage story. Maybe you jumped right in after engagement and you’ve quickly realized how involved this ‘getting ready to say I do’ thing can be. 

I’ve been working as a makeup artist for brides for over a decade and I’ve noticed that many of them reach a stage, usually within six months of the Big Day, where everything feels like a lot. Whether you have a huge wedding or a small one. Whether you’re working with a planning team or DIYing most everything on your own. There is a point of Great Clenching. Where it feels like your body has become one large, overstimulated nerve. Where the stress of so many variables really starts to get at you. 

And, then you’re also expected to find your beauty team in this window of time. 

I’d like to invite you to experience something different. What if the next time you felt the beginnings of a Great Clench Moment…you tried to interrupt that with a nice, hand moving belly breath? What if your wedding is already exponentially more beautiful than you’ve even imagined? What if you looked at it as a glorious party, a beautiful time that is the first step in a glorious life, a beautiful partnership that you have been lucky enough to find? 

Could you feel the difference in the way those thoughts land? 

Okay, now for your beauty decisions. Those don’t have to be hard. First off, if you’ve struggled to find someone I want you to reach out to me. Even if I’m already booked, it seems like I know every artist in the state and with that huge network, I’m certain I can find you a good match. Reach out. Seriously. 

Now I want you to think about how you want to feel on the Big Day. Notice I said feel, not look. You will look beautiful. That I know for sure. Right now we are thinking, though, about the thing you will remember years and years from now. And, that is how you feel. Not how you look. 

Those things you want to feel? (Things like joyful, relaxed, excited, like your best you) Those are the things you want your beauty team showing you on their website, their social media accounts and their reviews. If they’re showing you that they too care about these things through what they’re already doing day to day? It means they get it. They’ve already considered your experience, or the experience of other people like you. You will likely be in good hands.

This is the point where it may be good to think about how you want to look. Page through your professional’s portfolio. Do you see looks that you would add to your vision board? 

If you’re someone who loves bold makeup- do you see that in this artist’s work? If you like it soft, clean and perfected- is that what you see in their imagery instead? We wouldn’t ask a veterinarian to handle your human illnesses. And we wouldn’t ask a natural makeup artist to do full glam. They may be able to do it, but it may not be their specialty. 

These artists are also real professionals running real businesses. You’ll hear back from them quickly after inquiring through their website. You’ll know what you’re getting into through the contract and onboarding process. Your questions will be answered happily. You should not experience weeks long wait time to get your initial emails answered or receive a price quote. 

Once you’ve got the information you need to make your best choice, it is smart to make it quickly. While I place a soft forty eight hour hold for my brides’ deliberation time, most artists do not. And, even with my soft hold, I have had brides that were faster to make a decision and sign a date than a bride that I’d spoken with first. 

If you’ve met with an artist, gotten information and don’t have a strong gut feeling that you want to sign them right away…well…that might be a sign that they aren’t the right artist for you. It’s okay to listen to your gut and look for another artist. It is still good (and polite) to let the first artist know that you’ve decided to go in a different direction. 

The last piece of the puzzle I’d like you to think about is your preview date. It is wise to view this day as a preview of your wedding look and not as a trial. Especially if you’ve gone through the work of vetting your artist as I recommended. 

If you insist on seeing the makeup look prior to signing a contract and committing to this artist, I would recommend searching for your artist and choosing your preview date at least twelve months out from your wedding. Because if you aren’t already certain they’re right for you and you don’t like your trial makeup, that twelve months of lead time will mean you can still find another artist. 

And, if you DO like your trial makeup but didn’t secure a contract ahead of the preview? Well, there is a distinct possibility that the artist will sign another client for your day at any point that you don’t have it secured. So, it’s a risk I wouldn’t take personally. 

At your preview, it can be helpful to provide the artist with looks that you’re leaning toward. Extra points if those looks are from their portfolio or social media pages! Remain open to the possibility that they may have recommendations that work better for your particular face or features. You hired a professional, so they know how to let your beauty shine its brightest. 

Throughout the preview appointment you should feel comfortable asking questions and requesting tweaks or changes. Don’t wait until the full face is on and complete to voice concerns or issues. Often by then it is too late to make meaningful changes. Do speak up and provide feedback in the moment if you need to- you hired a pro, so they should be secure enough in their skill to accept actionable feedback. 

All of these steps, even in the midst of Big Clench Moments of wedding planning, will mean that you can rest secure in your choice for beauty on the Big Day. Beauty is often the first team that you see that day and can set the tone for how you feel going into a big feelings sort of day. By vetting early, choosing an artist that you have a good connection with, and sharing your honest thoughts about how you look at your preview you should find that you feel and look your most beautiful on a day that is about so much more than how you look! 

Now, remember those belly breaths!

About Danielle: 
Danielle is an experienced licensed esthetician, makeup artist and educator from the heart of the Midwest. She joyfully serves bridal clients all over the Mitten and aesthetics clients at her studio space inside Boho Aeshetics in downtown Holly.

You can reach her at [email protected] should you wish to chat. Or at her website (dnartistry.com) or socials (IG: @dn_artistry) if you'd like to see her work! ​

Saying 'I Do' Made Easy: Find the Perfect Wedding Minister Near You!
Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming task, but finding the perfect wedding minister near you doesn't have to be. Whether you're envisioning a traditional ceremony or something more unique, saying 'I do' has never been easier.
At Nichole Bertucci, A Simple I Do, we understand the importance of finding the right officiant to officiate your special day. Our team of experienced wedding ministers are here to help you create a personalized and meaningful ceremony that reflects your love story.
With our extensive network of wedding ministers across the country, you can easily find someone who resonates with your beliefs, values, and style. From religious officiants to non-denominational celebrants, we cater to diverse backgrounds and preferences.
By considering factors such as location, availability, and testimonials, we ensure that you find a wedding minister who is not only qualified but also a perfect fit for you and your partner. Your wedding day is a celebration of your love, and we are dedicated to making it an unforgettable experience.
Let A Simple I Do take the stress out of finding the perfect officiant for your big day. Say 'I do' with confidence, knowing that your wedding ceremony will be everything you've dreamed of and more. Planning your wedding just got a whole lot easier.

The Importance of Finding the Perfect Wedding MinisterThe role of a wedding minister goes beyond simply officiating the ceremony. They are the ones who set the tone for your wedding, guiding you and your partner through one of the most important moments of your lives. Finding the perfect wedding minister is crucial to ensure that your ceremony reflects your values, beliefs, and love story.
A wedding ceremony is more than just a legal union; it is a celebration of love and commitment. The wedding minister plays a significant role in creating a ceremony that is meaningful and memorable. They help set the atmosphere, provide guidance, and lead the couple and their guests through the various elements of the ceremony.
Additionally, a wedding minister should be someone who understands and respects your religious or spiritual beliefs, if any. They should be able to incorporate any cultural or traditional customs that are important to you and your partner. Finding the right wedding minister ensures that your ceremony feels authentic and truly represents who you are as a couple.
When you find the perfect wedding minister, you can trust that they will work closely with you to create a ceremony that is unique and tailored to your preferences. This personal touch will make your wedding day even more special and memorable for both you and your guests.

Types of Wedding Ceremonies and Officiants
Weddings come in all shapes and sizes, and so do the types of ceremonies and officiants available. Whether you're looking for a religious ceremony, a non-religious ceremony, or something in between, there is a wedding minister out there who can meet your needs.
Religious ceremonies are often officiated by clergy members from specific religious institutions. These ceremonies may follow traditional rituals and include prayers, hymns, and religious readings. If you and your partner are religious and want to incorporate your faith into your ceremony, a religious wedding minister can help you do just that.
On the other hand, if you prefer a non-religious ceremony, there are many non-denominational celebrants who specialize in creating personalized ceremonies that focus on the love between the couple. These officiants often work with couples of diverse backgrounds and beliefs, ensuring that the ceremony is inclusive and meaningful to all.
For couples who come from different religious or cultural backgrounds, interfaith or multicultural wedding ministers can help create a ceremony that honors both traditions. These officiants have experience in blending different customs and rituals to create a cohesive and harmonious ceremony.
No matter what type of ceremony you envision, there is a wedding minister out there who can help bring your vision to life. Taking the time to explore your options and find a minister who aligns with your beliefs and style is key to creating a ceremony that is true to who you are as a couple.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Minister
Choosing the right wedding minister is a decision that should not be taken lightly. There are several factors to consider to ensure that you find someone who not only meets your requirements but also makes you feel comfortable and confident on your wedding day.
One of the first factors to consider is the location of your wedding. You'll want to find a wedding minister who is familiar with the venue or is willing to travel to your desired location. This will ensure that they are well-prepared and can provide a seamless ceremony experience for you and your guests.
Availability is another important factor to consider. Wedding ministers, especially those who are highly sought after, can book up quickly. It's important to reach out to potential ministers early in the planning process to secure their availability on your wedding day.
Testimonials and reviews from previous couples can provide valuable insights into a wedding minister's professionalism and ability to create a memorable ceremony. Reading reviews and asking for references can help you gauge their experience and reputation.
Lastly, consider your budget when choosing a wedding minister. Officiant fees can vary depending on their experience, travel requirements, and the complexity of the ceremony. It's important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved and ensure that it aligns with your overall wedding budget.
Taking these factors into account will help you narrow down your options and find a wedding minister who meets your criteria. Remember, finding the perfect wedding minister is all about finding someone who resonates with you and your partner, ensuring that your ceremony is everything you've envisioned and more.

Interviewing and Meeting with Potential Wedding Ministers
Meeting with potential wedding ministers in person or via video call is an important step in the selection process. It allows you to get a better sense of their personality, communication style, and overall fit for your wedding day.
Before the meeting, prepare a list of questions to ask each wedding minister. These questions should cover topics such as their experience, approach to officiating weddings, and any special services they offer. This will help you gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
During the meeting, pay attention to how well the wedding minister listens to your ideas and concerns. They should be receptive to your vision and open to collaborating with you to create a ceremony that reflects your unique love story.
Ask for examples or stories of ceremonies they have officiated in the past. This will give you a better understanding of their style and ability to create a personalized and memorable ceremony.
Additionally, inquire about their availability on your wedding day and any potential conflicts that may arise. It's important to ensure that the wedding minister can fully commit to your wedding and won't have any scheduling conflicts.
After meeting with each potential wedding minister, take some time to reflect on your experience and compare your notes. Consider how well each candidate understood your vision, communicated their ideas, and made you feel at ease.
Based on your impressions, select the wedding minister who you feel most comfortable and confident working with. Remember, this is a personal decision, and ultimately, you should choose someone who you believe will create a ceremony that is true to your love story.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Minister During the Interview Process
During the interview process, asking the right questions is crucial to gather all the necessary information and make an informed decision. Here are some questions to consider asking potential wedding ministers:
How long have you been officiating weddings, and how many weddings have you officiated?
What is your approach to creating a personalized wedding ceremony?
Can you accommodate specific religious or cultural customs that are important to us?
Do you offer any additional services or special elements that can make our ceremony unique?
How do you handle unexpected situations or changes during the ceremony?
Can you provide references or testimonials from previous couples you have worked with?
What is your availability on our wedding day, and do you have any scheduling conflicts?
What are your fees and what is included in your services?
How do you work with couples to create a ceremony script, and how much input do we have?
How far in advance do we need to book your services?
These questions will help you gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision and ensure that the wedding minister you choose is the perfect fit for your wedding day.

Collaborating with Your Wedding Minister on the Ceremony Script
With your wedding minister booked, it's time to start collaborating with them on the ceremony script. The ceremony script is the blueprint for your wedding ceremony and includes all the elements, readings, and rituals that will take place.
Schedule a meeting or video call with your wedding minister to discuss your vision for the ceremony and any specific elements you would like to include. This is a great opportunity to share your personal love story and discuss any unique aspects you want to incorporate.
Be open to your wedding minister's suggestions and ideas. They have extensive experience in creating meaningful ceremonies and can provide valuable insights and guidance.
During this collaboration process, you'll work together to create a ceremony script that reflects your love story, incorporates any religious or cultural customs, and resonates with you and your partner on a personal level. It's important to communicate your expectations and preferences clearly to ensure that your vision is accurately captured.
Keep in mind that the ceremony script is a working document that can be revised and refined as you go along. Regular communication with your wedding minister is key to ensure that the script evolves into a ceremony that truly represents you as a couple.
Embrace the collaborative process and trust in your wedding minister's expertise. Together, you'll create a ceremony script that is heartfelt, personal, and unforgettable.

Finalizing Details and Preparing for the Wedding Ceremony
As your wedding day approaches, it's time to finalize the details and prepare for the wedding ceremony. Schedule a final meeting or call with your wedding minister to go over all the logistical details and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Confirm the ceremony start time, location, and any specific instructions or requirements for the venue. Review the ceremony script one last time to ensure that it accurately reflects your vision and has all the necessary elements.
Discuss any last-minute changes or updates that may have occurred since your initial collaboration. This is also a great opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have regarding the ceremony.
Ensure that you have all the necessary legal documents and paperwork in order, especially if you're having a legally binding ceremony. Your wedding minister can guide you through the process and provide any necessary information or resources.
On the day of the wedding, make sure to communicate with your wedding minister about any last-minute changes or updates, such as unexpected changes in the ceremony order or any unforeseen circumstances.
Remember to relax and enjoy the process. Your wedding minister is there to guide you through the ceremony and ensure that everything runs smoothly. Trust in their expertise and let them take care of the details while you focus on celebrating your love.
Saying 'I do' with the perfect wedding minister by your side will make your wedding ceremony a truly memorable and meaningful experience. Enjoy every moment

 "Experience a Michigan Elopement Wedding at Pontiac 2 Studio"

Hosting an elopement wedding ceremony in Michigan can be elegantly simple and breathtakingly beautiful – all the things that make you exclaim, "I didn't know I could do this!" But guess what? You absolutely can! As a seasoned wedding officiant, Nichole Bertucci proudly offers her expertise as the exclusive officiant for the captivating Pontiac 2 Studio, nestled in the heart of downtown Pontiac, Michigan.

When searching for a justice of the peace wedding minister in Michigan A Simple I Do is here to help you. We have a few wedding officiants on staff who perform all sorts of wedding ceremonies, from simple sign and go with no ceremony to a full wedding ceremony with 100's of guests and everything in between. 

A justice of the peace wedding is often searched when I couple is looking for a simple wedding ceremony option. When the local courthouse no longer performs weddings or their waitlist is months long you can reach out to us at A Simple I Do to get married. 

Our simple sign and go is a great option for couples looking to simply meet up and sign the marriage license. 

Our sign and I do is the courthouse alternative, meet up to sign the license and we'll perform a short sweet wedding ceremony with exchange of rings and vows. 

The elopement/intimate ceremony is for around 20 guests and performed at a park, your home or small wedding venue. We will write a custom and personal ceremony just for you. 

And of course when you've booked the venue and invited all your people we offer our full ceremony. 

We've got it all covered from justice of the peace to wedding officiant to minister, whatever you are looking for we at A Simple I Do can make it happen. 

Photographer: Brittany Carress
Florals: Sage Green 
Location: Pontiac 2 Studio - must be rented from Officiant, Nichole
Wedding Officiant: Nichole Bertucci 
​Models: Vito Bertucci and Kaitlyn Garner