Golden Gate-B+: I was torn about "grading" Golden Gate because the flowers were fantastic. I loved my bouquet and the centerpieces. I pictured the ceremony urns differently, but everyone liked those as well. Jay worked within my budget and I got everything I wanted--even the bittersweet brambles on the fireplace mantle. The reason they received a B+ rather than an A is because it was very difficult to get in touch with them and when I did speak to someone, things seemed to be off. A time I spoke with someone on the phone, I booked a time to see my mock centerpieces and when I showed up to the studio, they were not prepared for me. Jay did his best to whip something up and felt awful about it, but I felt a little nervous upon leaving. When DH dropped off the blue mason jars and garden lanterns we provided for the centerpieces, I received a phone call 2 days later asking when we were going to drop the items off. Overall, my flowers were beautiful and I have no complaints about the handiwork. I think they were very busy and just needed a little more organization.
Nancy Paolino and the Black Tie Band-A: This band kept the dance floor moving. People were even swaying to the music during dinner. Nancy did a great job reading the crowd and adjusting when necessary. My friends were floored with how a band could play "Beat It", "Sweet Home Alabama", Lady Gaga, and the Monkees--and have them all sound good! This band can do it all. I was highly impressed as were my guests.
TUBA!-A: DH plays the sousaphone. He has friends from college that are in tuba quartet and we knew we wanted them to play at the wedding. They were a great surprise for our guests. Josh and the boys learned several songs for us for our ceremony. They even rocked Europe's "The Final Countdown" for our recessional. If you are looking for something classy but with a twist for your ceremony, look into these guys.
Cinderella's-A: My MOH has gotten her dress from Scott so I knew I wanted to look there when I was shopping. I am a plus size girl so it can always feel daunting to try on clothes let alone a wedding gown. Scott and his staff were great. Eugenia worked wonders on my gown and I loved how I looked on my wedding day.
Overall, I LOVED my day and I was glad to have chosen the vendors I did. I really had no complaints--everything that I was unsure about happened before the big day and really, in the end, your wedding day is the only thing that anyone will remember. And really, that's all that matters.