RAQUA's reviews

We are certainly a “do it yourself” couple, so we intentionally hired a photographer who would give us the rights to the negatives and allow us to create our own photo books. Kodak Gallery online is the perfect place to upload your pictures and create a photo memory book of your special day!

Randolph not only provided us with the engagement ring, but custom made platinum engraved bands for our ceremony. They have a wide assortment of new and antique jewelry that will fit any bride’s taste.

My husband does not like to fly, so choosing a cruise leaving from NYC was a no-brainer! We set sail on the Norwegian Dawn, taking us to Florida and the Bahamas. It was a wonderful time! Norwegian is known for their “freestyle dining”, meaning that you are not forced to sit with strangers for meals on your honeymoon, nor are you locked into set meal times.

This hotel only gets one and a half stars for it’s proximity to our location. They did not offer us a group rate if we encouraged our guests to stay there, nor did they warn us that the hotel would be undergoing some minor construction during our wedding weekend. Getting phone calls from your guests that their hallway’s wallpaper is being stripped, and being told that more than one room change had been in order for things not working properly in the rooms, is not what you want to hear on your wedding day!

No, they will not arrange your flowers for you. However, you cannot beat their prices for bulk items, and if you are open to using whatever flowers are in season, as well as constructing the arrangements yourself, you cannot beat this place!

Ceremony:

The grounds at Curtis Hall and Arboretum make this location a truly special one for an outdoor wedding. Choose to have your ceremony in the spring, and you can be married in their arbor under flowering blooms, which is a perfect location for all of your photographic needs as well!

Reception:

This venue was used for both our ceremony and reception, and is a wonderful location for an outdoor wedding. They have a small hall you may use if you wish to have your reception indoors (or if the threat of rain is looming!), but the true beauty of Curtis is the arboretum.

The Gourmet Vendor offers non-traditional catering that is so much fun! Hot dog carts, soft pretzels, cotton candy, popcorn, and more for a unique experience for you and your guests!

Zake’s is an incredible bakery located in the suburbs about a half hour north of the city. Meet with Marlene, the owner, who will show you dozens of photos of their past work, listen to your special requests, and allow you to sample some of the yummy creations. If you bring Marlene a picture of the cake at your wedding, she will make you a small replica of your cake for your one-year anniversary – sure beats trying to defrost and choke down the saved top tier!

The Olive Garden is a special location for us since it is where we had our first date. Choosing the restaurant for our bridal shower was wonderful as they section off a private room (which was fortunately large enough to accommodate our party!) and have a set event menu to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

David’s Bridal is NOT the place to go if you want a unique wedding dress. Simply put, they offer “cookie cutter” designs at low prices. However, their selection of accessories is wonderful – think headpieces, jewelry, and even adorable bride/groom gifts.