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Cody & Samantha

The Brides Perspective 

Describe your wedding vision 

My wedding vision always included the outdoors. I started with a vision of a small “I Do BBQ,” but that changed the second I stepped foot at Heston Hills Event Center. I instantly turned my wedding into a vintage theme. I’m obsessed with succulents, so I knew I wanted a lot of vintage galvanized pieces and pearls. I wanted a summer wedding, so it was only right I plan it for July 3, which is our dating anniversary. I wanted sparklers and fireworks to not only celebrate our love but also Independence Day. My husband loves to golf, so I knew I wanted to incorporate that somehow. Our cake topper read “fore ever” and our wedding favors were golf tees with “Zalkowski Wedding” engraved. We also gave boxed matches as a favor to no only go along with our vintage theme but also for the cigar bar we offered outside. My wedding was everything I envisioned and more!  

Describe your wedding day 

HOT! My wedding day was very, very hot! 92 degrees to be exact. It started with all the bridesmaids, my mother, and I meeting in the beautiful bridal suite my venue offered. We drank mimosas while getting our hair and makeup done. Later, the boys met in the groom suite to drink, you guessed it, BEER! My father and grandfather walked me down the aisle. We had our ceremony outside and our reception inside. Because my husband is a huge sports fan, our entrance into the wedding reception was the Chicago Bulls theme song! For dinner, we had a Prime Rib carving station. We also offered chicken, mostaccioli, mashed potatoes, and green beans. After dinner, Cody and I danced to Zac Brown Band, “What Ever It Is.” I then danced with my father and stepfather.  We offered a Cigar bar outside, which everyone seemed to enjoy. There was not a moment where the dance floor was empty. At the end of the night, we had red heart fireworks go up and left with a sparkler sendoff! My wedding was everything I wanted and more! 

Your advice to engaged couples 

My advice to engaged couples is to enjoy the planning! Make it all about you and what you two love and enjoy and settle for nothing less. Be creative! Let your wedding day reflect you two and your love! If you disagree on a certain topic whether it is the guest list, seating chart, colors, or maybe the food, remember that you guys love each other and come to a compromise. Never go to bed angry and always communicate! No matter what happens, at the end of the day, you will get to marry your best friend! 

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