Elegant by Design

  Who: Denise Ellenbecker says when she was a little girl, she often dreamed about her wedding.

"Before I could walk, I dreamed about walking down the aisle," Ellenbecker said.

She has forged a team of eight like-minded individuals who collectively have 25 years of experience in making weddings and receptions unique events.

What: In 1994, Ellenbecker began her company, Elegant by Design, a decorating service, catering to brides.

"We probably have over 300 weddings to our credit," she said. All team members have other jobs but do this "because we love weddings," Ellenbecker said.

She estimates that each bride receives at least 14 hours of service, including a free consultation.

Ellenbecker has two formats for her service. For the "do-it-yourself" bride, she charges for rental items and consultation. Those who want all facets of decorating handled are charged rental along with labor fees.

Over the last several years, May and June have been the team's busiest months for weddings, but "September and October are extremely busy, too."

Why it's important: Brides are looking for new and unique decorations, including more elaborate backdrops behind the head table and themed receptions.

Although based in Appleton, the team is currently working on decorating a wedding that will be held at the Charles Allis Museum in Milwaukee.

A recent outdoor Neenah wedding in which the theme was authentic English decor caused Ellenbecker to seek help from decorators in California and England through phone conferences.

"Our primary objective is to work behind the scenes on the wedding day to give brides elaborate, beautiful settings that they see in high-end magazines."

For more information: Elegant By Design, (920) 735-6596 (by appointment only)