Turning to local businesses for the details of planning a wedding can save time, hassle and confusion. Ames’ Main Street Cultural District offers everything a couple needs to plan a stress-free wedding.

The engagement ring is typically the first big decision to jumpstart the wedding planning process.

It can be intimidating and scary, but Ames Silversmithing, 220 Main St., is a good place to make that big decision. They have a wide variety of rings and designs, along with the choice of customizing a ring.

“If you can sketch it, then we can make it come to life,” said Kyle Youngberg, a store manager.

While some might be hesitant to go to a small shop for something like an engagement ring, Youngberg said, “We are not a chain store. We get to take the cream of the crop and sell a top tier, exceptional product. There is no middle man.”

The store focuses on originality, selection, service and quality; which is helpful when making big decisions. The store sells wedding bands as well.

A wedding photographer is essential for capturing special moments. Finding a photographer near the venue makes things easier for everyone, so Images by NGaire, 408 Kellogg Ave., might fit the bill.

When the big day rolls around, a quick stop to His and Hers Styling Salon, 413 Main St., will be helpful for the important hairstyle and last minute touches, such as manicures and pedicures.

A great way to thank guests and the wedding party is to give them a little something special at the end of the event. Temptations on Main, 309 Main St., is a fine-chocolate shop with options for wedding favors, such as truffles and Jelly Bellys. Janice Coble, one of the store’s owners, said truffles are the most popular wedding favor they offer.

“There are 16 different flavors, and we also have favor boxes in varying colors,” Coble said.

Not only do they offer the boxes and ink in various colors, but also have Jelly Belly jelly beans in bulk in a variety of colors, which is perfect for matching a wedding’s theme. Another bonus is the shop will deliver the truffles, along with putting them together in the boxes.

“We make it as simple for the couple as we can. They have enough other things to be worried about,” Coble said.