The notion that “timing is everything” is applicable in many situations, perhaps none more so than on a couple’s wedding day. Many couples spend months, if not years, planning their weddings in the hopes that all that hard work will ultimately result in a day they will cherish forever.
The sheer volume of things to do on a wedding day can make couples feel overwhelmed. Those feelings can be overcome by emphasizing timing on the day of the wedding. Wedding day timelines will differ depending on variables that are unique to each couple’s wedding, but the following are some factors to consider as couples organize the big day.
• Venue(s): The schedule couples adhere to on their wedding day will be greatly affected by their choice of venue. Does the venue have somewhere on premises for the couple and their party to get ready? Are the ceremony and reception being held at the same venue? Before creating a timeline, consider the location of the ceremony and reception venue(s) and the accommodations each provides. Getting to and from multiple facilities won’t be an issue if couples choose a multipurpose venue where they can get ready, tie the knot and dance the night away all in one place. Couples who will be moving from venue to venue throughout the day must build the time it takes them and their party to get about into their timelines.
• Wedding party: The size of the wedding party also bears consideration when planning a wedding day timeline. Large parties will require more time to get ready, and that should be factored into couples’ timelines. Large parties also may be harder to corral and transport from place to place, so couples should build some extra time into their timelines to account for that. Small wedding parties can be easier to manage, so couples with small parties may be able to begin their timelines a little later in the day than those with large wedding parties.
• Weather: Weather is the most unpredictable variable couples need to plan for on their wedding days. As the wedding day approaches, couples can monitor the day’s forecast and then make any necessary changes to account for inclement weather. Getting around in a rainstorm will likely take longer than moving about on a sunny day, so some minor tweaks to the timeline may be necessary if storms or another type of inclement weather is in the forecast.
Couples can access wedding day timeline templates on various websites. But it’s important that couples remember that their weddings are unique, so online guidelines might not be realistic. A careful consideration of a handful of variables specific to couples’ weddings can help them craft timelines that make their big day go smoothly. 

The question was popped; the engagement ring presented. What’s the next step on the road to the wedding? Saving should definitely be on couples’ minds.
A wedding is likely the most costly party couples will ever throw. According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2019 was $33,900. There are many different costs associated with weddings. Some are predictable, while others are unexpected. 
Investopedia says the vast majority of couples budget too little for their weddings and also end up spending more than they had planned. Various strategies can make it easier to save for a wedding and avoid a post-wedding financial hangover.

Get informed
It’s impossible to budget for a wedding and ultimately save without knowledge of what services and items cost in the region where you live. A wedding in New York City will be expensive, while a wedding in Mississippi will cost a lot less, indicates SuperMoney’s guide to wedding costs.
Conduct some research and find out what photographers, florists, transportation providers, reception halls, and wedding wardrobe vendors charge for common services. This will paint a vivid picture of what a wedding may cost in your area.

Flesh out the budget
Once you have gathered estimates, you can then figure out a financial goal. This also is when you can determine where to rein in spending and where you might want to splurge. If having a video memory of the wedding is not a top priority, you can skip videography services. If you have a special flower that you like, you may want to budget more for that bloom even if it isn’t in season.

Set up a dedicated savings account
One of the easiest ways to save for big-ticket items like a wedding, home purchase or other financial goals is to use an automatic savings account that may be available through your bank or employer. An automatic savings plan will pull a set amount from a personal checking account into a savings account through auto-draft. The bride and groom can link individual checking accounts to one savings account to contribute jointly. 

Avoid overspending
An analysis of your spending habits will likely reveal areas where you can scale back so you can devote more funds to wedding savings. Do you need a takeout coffee in the morning or can you brew a pot at home? Might you be able to scale back on streaming services? Do you feel comfortable buying less expensive store brand groceries over name brands? Small cost savings can quickly add up.

Add up gifts
Factor in deduction of expenses that other people will commit to covering for wedding expenses, but only if you have concrete confirmation. A parent may host the rehearsal dinner. One’s relative may offer to pass down an antique wedding gown to wear. But rather than simply removing these gifts from your savings calculations, keep them as a safety net to put toward unforseen expenses.
Saving for a wedding can be challenging. But various strategies can help couples plan their dream weddings without breaking the bank.

Weddings join the lives of two loving individuals so they can share their future with one another. Various elements help make weddings both momentous and magical. 
Some weddings adhere to themes that are designed to make an impression and showcase couples’ personalities. Floral arrangements are key components of wedding themes, as they help to establish ambiance at both the ceremony and reception.
Flowers can easily help couples achieve a desired vibe, whether that’s rustic, romantic, modern, or even whimsical. Skilled florists may use a variety of flowers and foliage, as well as dramatic displays to help create the couple’s wedding day vision. According to an internal study from the wedding advice and planning resource The Knot, which surveyed more than 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, the average cost of wedding flowers was $2,000 in 2019. However, the cost of floral arrangements can vary depending on the scope of the arrangements and choice of flowers, including whether they’re in season or not. 
It is essential for couples to spend time vetting potential florists to find one who will produce their desired vision at a price that fits their budget. These guidelines can make the process go more smoothly.
• Establish your theme early on. Floral arrangements will complement and enhance other elements of the wedding, including color scheme and the wedding theme. If your wedding theme ties into a specific season, you will work with the florist to find blooms and other pieces that coordinate. For example, winter weddings with white, ice blue and silver color schemes may coordinate with white ranunculus flowers, dahlias, dusty miller foliage, and viburnum berries. 
• Bring swatches and photographs to consultations. It is easier to explain color palettes to a florist with examples in hand. Show the florist the types of arrangements you prefer and have actual fabric swatches from bridesmaid gowns or groomsmen vests so that colors can be complemented.
• Create a list of desired items. Florists may sell items a la carte or have packages of common floral pieces for wedding celebrations. Types of floral arrangements include bridal bouquet, bridesmaids’ bouquets, maid of honor bouquet, corsages for mothers/grandmothers, boutonnieres for groomsmen and fathers/grandfathers, flower girl headpiece, petals to sprinkle, table centerpieces, altar arrangements, pew or chair decorations, and cake decorations.
• Go easy on aroma. Tread lightly when selecting blooms that have strong aromas. They may be beautiful, but many people are sensitive to smells. Allergies also may be exacerbated by flowers with strong aromas. Discuss options with the florist before proceeding.
• Explain your budget. Research the average cost of floral arrangements and let the florist know what you can afford. This can help the florist narrow down options or make substitutions that fit your theme and your budget.
Couples can take certain steps as they choose floral arrangements for their weddings. Cost should not be the only factor in the decision, even though it is an important one.

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life. You'll cherish the memories for a lifetime. It's crucial to have a professional photographer who can capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Here's why hiring a professional photographer for your Charlottesville wedding is the best decision you can make.

Finding the Right Professional Photographer for You
Navigating the sea of photographers might seem overwhelming. However, it's not a matter of securing the one with the most awards or the steepest prices. The key lies in discovering a photographer who resonates with your unique style comprehends your vision for the day, and possesses the expertise to make it come alive.
Professional photographers distinguish themselves with robust portfolios that showcase their unique style and skills. They will have a treasure trove of glowing testimonials from past clients, attesting to their talent and professionalism.
Furthermore, the right photographer for your Charlottesville wedding will have a knack for making you feel comfortable and at ease. This bond of trust is crucial, as it enables genuine emotions to shine through in your photos, creating a narrative that's uniquely yours.
Consider arranging a face-to-face meeting or a video call with potential photographers. This gives you a chance to discuss your expectations, explore their style, and gauge whether your personalities are a good fit. Remember, this individual will be part of your most intimate moments on your big day, so it's essential to feel a sense of connection.
Choosing the right professional photographer is about more than just ticking a box on your wedding to-do list. It's about finding an artist who will join you on this remarkable journey, capturing the spirit and emotion of your special day in a way that reflects your love story perfectly. So take your time, do your research, and trust your gut – because when you find the right fit, you'll know.

The Importance of Professionalism in Wedding Photography
Your wedding day is an intricate tapestry of moments, each one as precious as the next. To weave this tapestry together, you need a professional with the reliability, skill, and adaptability to navigate the day's unexpected turns with grace and ease. This is the epitome of professionalism in wedding photography.
A professional photographer is a master of their craft, dedicated to capturing your wedding day as it unfolds in all its joy, intimacy, and grandeur. They come equipped with years of experience, and a keen understanding of how to adapt to varying situations - whether it's changing light conditions, a surprise rain shower, or a spontaneous moment of emotion. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures that each shot they take is flawlessly composed, capturing the essence of the moment.
The intricacies of a wedding day are many - from the anticipation as you prepare for the ceremony, the emotion during your vows, to the joy of your first dance. A professional photographer is like a conductor of an orchestra, expertly managing the chaos, capturing the melody of your day while ensuring that not a single note is missed.
A professional photographer doesn't just show up with a camera. They bring with them their talent, experience, creativity, and unyielding commitment to excellence. They step into your world for a day, witnessing your love, your laughter, your tears, and capturing it all with a blend of artistry and technical skill that transforms fleeting moments into everlasting memories.
In essence, professionalism in wedding photography is the confidence that every memory, every emotion, and every detail of your wedding day will be expertly captured, immortalized in a collection of images that tell your unique love story.

The Artistry Behind a Professional’s Lens
A wedding photographer's camera isn't just a tool; it's an extension of their creativity and vision. A professional sees your wedding day differently, seeing beauty in moments others might overlook. With an innate sense of timing, they seize instances of raw emotion, the glances exchanged, the laughter, and the tears. Their trained eye captures these moments with the perfect blend of light, angle, and perspective to tell your story.
Professional photographers understand the transformative power of light and shadow, and the delicate balance between them. They know how to use the golden hour's soft glow to enhance the romance, or how to create dramatic silhouettes in stark contrast. They use these elements to evoke feelings and atmosphere, transporting you back to that moment every time you look at your photos.
But the magic doesn't stop at capturing the moment. The processing stage, often overlooked, is where a professional's true artistry shines. They delicately enhance each photo, amplifying its story and emotion without altering its authenticity. The final result isn’t just a collection of pictures, it's a curated gallery of emotion-filled moments, an artistic documentation of your love story.
Through their lens, ordinary moments are transformed into extraordinary memories. So while you are living in the moment, rest assured knowing your professional photographer is not just taking pictures, but creating masterpieces. Each image a testament to your love, captured with artistry and skill, giving you the ability to relive your special day time and time again.
A Smooth, Stress-Free Wedding Day Experience
When the big day finally arrives, the last thing you want to worry about is managing the photography. That's where a professional photographer steps in, transforming what could be a hectic process into a seamless experience. With a professional at the helm, you can fully immerse yourself in the joy and love that permeate your special day.
A skilled photographer knows how to orchestrate the day, capturing essential moments without disruption. They intuitively know where to position themselves to catch the best shots and how to coordinate group photos with efficiency and ease. Their experience allows them to navigate the day's proceedings seamlessly, adapting to any unexpected changes and ensuring they capture all the vital moments.
From the private exchanges between you and your partner to the infectious laughter during the reception, a professional photographer's discreet presence allows these moments to occur naturally. They blend into the background, quietly documenting your day while you remain focused on the celebration at hand.
In the whirlwind that is your wedding day, the ability to trust in your photographer's expertise and judgement allows you to let go of any photography-related worries. You're free to live in the moment, soak up the joy, and create unforgettable memories, knowing that each one is being artfully captured.
With a professional photographer on board, your wedding day becomes an enjoyable, stress-free experience. And that's exactly as it should be on the happiest day of your life.

Investing in Your Memories
When you hire a professional photographer, you're not just paying for photos. You're making an investment in preserving the cherished memories of your special day. These images will not be confined to a forgotten folder on your computer or a dusty photo album on a shelf. They are visual time capsules that capture the love, joy, and magic of your wedding day. They will be the centerpieces in your home, shared with friends and relatives, and treasured heirlooms to pass down to future generations.
The photographs from your wedding will serve as an ever-present reminder of your love story, evoking powerful emotions each time you glance at them. The detailed precision, unique artistry, and raw emotion that a professional photographer infuses into your images make them a worthwhile investment.
Unlike many of the expenses associated with your wedding, the value of your wedding photos will only increase with time. As the years pass, these images will become more than just a record of events. They will transform into priceless mementos that transport you back to the day you said: "I do."
This investment is not just in beautifully composed images but in the preservation of emotions, the rekindling of memories, and the ability to relive the most magical day of your life through a visual narrative. Thus, investing in a professional wedding photographer is a decision that you will never regret, as it results in a timeless keepsake of your special day.

Making Your Wedding Day Unforgettable
Your wedding day is a precious tapestry of moments, each one weaving together to form an unforgettable experience. It’s the big, standout moments and the smaller, intimate ones that together make your wedding uniquely yours. A professional photographer is skilled in capturing all these moments, perfectly encapsulating the joy, the love, and the celebration. Every photograph they take will not just document an event; it will tell a story, your story. Each image will be filled with the raw emotion and genuine warmth of the day, immediately transporting you back to those joy-filled moments each time you revisit them. Your wedding album won't be a simple record of the day's events, but a tangible memory of the day you vowed to spend forever with your soulmate. A professional photographer makes your special day truly unforgettable, by turning your moments into timeless keepsakes, and your emotions into a visual narrative, so you can relive your wedding day, time and time again.

​

Rustic centerpiece ideas

If you're envisioning a romantic and dreamy atmosphere for your wedding, there are plenty of DIY centerpiece options to choose from. One idea is to create a floating candle centerpiece by placing a few floating candles in a glass bowl filled with water and rose petals. This simple yet elegant centerpiece creates a soft and romantic glow that is perfect for a wedding reception.
Another romantic centerpiece idea is to create a floral chandelier. Hang a circular wire frame from the ceiling and wrap it with lush greenery and flowers. Add fairy lights for an extra touch of magic. This DIY centerpiece will create a stunning focal point and add a touch of whimsy to your wedding decor.

Vintage-inspired centerpiece ideas
For those planning a rustic-themed wedding, DIY centerpieces can help capture the natural beauty and charm of the countryside. One idea is to use wooden slices as the base for your centerpiece. Arrange mason jars filled with wildflowers on top of the wooden slices and tie them together with twine. This rustic centerpiece will add a touch of warmth and country charm to your wedding reception.
Another rustic centerpiece idea is to repurpose old wine barrels as tables. Place a small wooden crate on top of the barrel and fill it with flowers and greenery. This unique centerpiece idea adds a rustic and vintage touch to your wedding decor.

​

Weddings may focus on the couples getting hitched, but weddings also are special thanks to the many family and friends couples involved in the festivities. Some of the more successful weddings are ones where couples honor their guests and let them know how much they appreciate. Couples can let their guests know how much they’re loved by incorporating these ideas into their wedding ceremonies and receptions.
• Arrange seats at the ceremony (if practical) in a circular pattern around you so that everyone can have a great view when you exchange vows.
• Create a bathroom convenience basket for both the men’s and women’s bathrooms. Stock items that might come in handy, like mouthwash, toothpaste, first aid items, spare pantyhose, hair spray, sanitary products, moisturizer, gum, and other niceties.
• Provide prearranged to-go boxes so that guests can take home tasty tidbits from the meal or dessert table. 
• Offer transportation between the ceremony and reception.
• Customize “do not disturb” door tags for overnight guests so they can ensure they get enough shut-eye after partying into the wee hours of the morning.
• Make sure the photographer takes photos of everyone at every table and then share those photos on a wedding website or via social media. Create a hashtag unique to your wedding so that guests can easily find the photos.
• Provide inexpensive slippers or flip-flops so that avid dancers can rest their toes in between songs.
• If valet parking service is not included, ask for an add-on so that guests get door-to-door treatment.
• Always be considerate of special needs by seating guests in places where they’re most likely to be comfortable. Keep elderly guests away from speakers and near exits to facilitate trips to the bathroom.
• Be mindful of all food allergies or requirements and have accommodations set up in advance.
• Honor those people who could not be at the wedding in a special way, including deceased family and friends.
• Include information about how guests can request songs at the reception. Pass on the information to the band or DJ.
• Encourage guests to get up and dance by making it fun. Put song lyrics from different songs on each table. When that song is played, that table has to join you on the dance floor.
• Remember to thank everyone for coming and follow up those in person sentiments with handwritten, personalized thank-you notes after the wedding. 

While your wedding is a period of ecstasy, joy and fulfillment for you, we understand that certain inevitable circumstances such as Covid-19 may prove to be an obstacle. A wedding is the most critical turn in an individual's life, a special occasion that one has had dreams of for years.  You may have plans of spending it with those who matter, and we want to help you while you do that.
Therefore, we present this article specifically dedicated to all you folks who are getting ready for their momentous day and fear that the pandemic may hinder your dream wedding. You don't have to put an end to your ambitions; however, you need to take a few precautions, and we, as your helpful wedding guides, will be of assistance in this regard. Let's get started!

1. No-touch policies:

We realize that on your special day, you will be emotional. However, this policy is particularly crucial—no-touch policies include handshakes, hugs and kisses. You never know who may have been infected because the symptoms associated with the virus take several days before they become noticeable. It is, therefore, best to refrain from any physical contact.

1. Sanitization and Masks to the rescue:

At every entrance and exit station of the wedding hall, there should be sanitizers. No guest should be allowed inside the wedding hall unless they have correctly sanitized their hands and are wearing masks.
We know that a mask does smudge the lipstick, but we have to be cautious, right? Remember! Prevention is always better than treatment, and we don't want you to get infected at any cost! There is no rulebook as to the ways one can look glamorous while prioritizing their safety.
Be it maxi dresses or shimmery gowns, anything will look good; however, safety procedures are of immense significance in the pandemic. (Hint: You could mention these safety protocols on your wedding card before sending them to your close ones) That way, they have no chance of forgetting to wear masks on your extra-special day.

1. Safe seating:

During a wedding, everyone will sit down, chatter, eat, and drink. It is of paramount importance that while your guests engage in this, they do so from afar. Tell your wedding planners to set chairs 6 feet apart from one another.
That way, no opportunity for anyone to get infected and complain later on. Instead, your efforts in having conducted your wedding in such a smooth, thoughtful way will be appreciated by people. Safety first, and after that comes the fun guys!

1. Digitalize:

Had we been in the Flintstones' era (yes, we love that show), we may have been woeful and teary-eyed for not spending our memorable day with our loved ones. Thankfully, social media comes to save us. You can live stream your wedding instead of asking everyone to attend it physically to ensure their safety.
Virtual events have become mainstream during the pandemic anyway, so why not take advantage of this opportunity. Send your loved ones their wedding invitations, and ask them to keep their WIFI connections, food, and drinks ready for your day.

1. Showcase those skills:

It wouldn’t be a wedding without your wedding stylist. However, during the pandemic, you may need to rethink that option – if you're good at make-up – then this is your time to unleash your inner James Charles. Practice the make-up look you want to go with on your wedding beforehand, and blow everyone's mind away with the impeccable way you style yourself.
From make-up to fancy hairstyles, you can do anything with just enough practice. Doing this will eliminate any outsider's physical contact with you and diminish your chances of getting infected.

1. Embrace the outdoors:

Rather than opting to plan an indoor wedding, why not think about an outdoor one instead? Imagine you with your life partner in an open area, surrounded by nature and greenery all around you. The birds are chirping their way through the light blue colored sky with strokes of yellow sunlit clouds here and there. That would be a breathtaking sight to behold and be a significant step towards your new experience as a married couple.
Conclusion:
Following a pandemic, precautions do not mean you have to compromise on all the arrangements you had in mind for your wedding. It means that you have to exercise caution and deliberation in your wedding planning. You have to prioritize safety and health above all.

originally posted on brides.com

​Once your perfect engagement ring is sitting pretty on your finger, it probably feels like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders—it’s one less very important item you can check off your to-do list! But, the ring journey is not over just yet: now it’s time to pick a wedding band that matches your engagement ring.

While some engagement rings are made by jewelry brands that offer matching wedding bands, many are not. It can be difficult to find a band that looks right at home with your ring, especially if your ring features an unusual center stone, a unique center stone cut, or a bold metal. Since these two rings are going to be worn together forever, you want them to really flow together perfectly, like a match made in heaven. 

 The Complete Guide to Wedding Bands
That said, there’s a lot to consider, and so many options to choose from. Brides spoke with jeweler Colleen Montague, who says that one of the most important things you want to do is make sure that the engagement ring remains the star of the show. “Try to choose a wedding band that won’t overpower your engagement ring,” she says. 

MEET THE EXPERT

Colleen Montague is the lead jewelry designer and owner of Moissy Fine Jewellery.

Ahead, everything you need to know about finding a wedding band that fits perfectly around your engagement ring—including our favorite ring pairings!

Choosing a Metal
Traditionally, wedding bands and engagement rings are made of the same metal, so many people assume that they have to be made of the same metal. This isn’t true. “Be creative! Don’t be afraid to mix metals and shapes,” Montague says. “Mixed metals can really give a wedding set a modern look.” 

Need some ideas or inspiration? “The most common mix is a white and yellow gold set, but don’t be limited in what you love,” Montague says. “Mixing white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold has proven to be really stunning.” She explains that adding, say, yellow gold to a white gold engagement ring can make the set pop and look more unique. 

 Which Type of Ring Metal Should You Choose?
Types of Wedding Bands
After settling on a ring metal, you'll next have to decide what style wedding band you prefer. Consider whether you want a wedding band that sits flush against your engagement ring, or if you don’t mind a small gap between the two. Most of the time, this will depend on the setting of your engagement ring. A high-profile setting, like a cathedral, has space for a wedding band to sit snugly underneath the stone with no gap. 

You should also make sure the width of your engagement ring and wedding band are the same or similar. For example, if the band of your engagement ring is thin, opt for a thin wedding band as well. 

Classic Wedding Bands
If you don't want a gap between your two rings, opt for a classic wedding band style. There’s the very simple plain metal band, no extras added; the eternity wedding band, which features pavé diamonds all around the band; and the channel-set wedding band for a different way to mount diamonds. 

Infinity style wedding bands, which feature the infinity symbol throughout, are also popular, but may not rest completely flushed with your engagement ring.

Contoured Wedding Bands
Maybe the setting of your engagement ring isn’t high, and a band cannot sit underneath the center stone. You can still get a band that sits flush against the ring with a contoured style. 

A contoured wedding band is designed to match the curvature of your engagement ring. In the front, the band is shaped to follow the contours of your ring so it sits perfectly against it. It’s very common, elegant, and looks completely natural. 

Notched Wedding Bands
Another option for a flush look is a notched wedding band. If a contoured band looks like it was created specifically for your ring (which it very well may have been!), a notched wedding band looks like a puzzle piece. It’s completely straight until the front, where there’s a notch so that the stone can fit in place. 

Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding band and engagement ring set, there’s really no right or wrong answer. You can go with the classic and traditional look of the same metals and simple bands, or you can opt for something more unique and modern, like mixed metals or a band with embellishments. 

 
 
originally posted by Brides.com 
Whether you're hiring a wedding planner or not—it's no secret that wedding planners know a lot about planning a wedding, from setting a budget and managing the guest list to designing the flowers and décor.
 Wedding Coordinator vs. Planner vs. Designer: What's the Difference?But, even if you don't have the budget for a full-service wedding planner, don't stress. To help you kick off the planning process—and, more importantly, enjoy it!—we called on our wedding industry friends (27 of them, to be exact) and asked them to share their many, many years of experience and wisdom with you.
From money-saving tricks to stress-reducing tips, read on as some of the country's top wedding pros reveal the secrets their clients pay to hear!


Be Honest With Your Opinions“Be as clear as possible when communicating your needs and desires to everyone working on your wedding. Remember it’s just as important to share what you don’t like, as well as what you do, so a distinct picture emerges.”—Sofia Crokos, owner and creative director, Sofia Crokos Events & Lifestyle


Start With Your Budget“Before you make a single decision about your wedding, you need to determine your ‘must-have’ guest count and then your target budget. We see frustrated couples who start the process by booking a venue that simply does not fit into their budget. You have to consider the total cost of your celebration before anything else.”—Lynn Easton, founder, Easton Events


Focus on the Ceremony“Couples focus much of their energy and time on the reception. But without the ceremony, there is no reception. I tell my clients to put more energy into the vows, the actual ceremony, and how to make it unique and memorable. This is what will set the mood for the whole experience of the day.”—Mindy Weiss, owner, Mindy Weiss Party Consultants,


Trust Your Gut“Follow your gut and do your research when it comes to choosing vendors. Don’t settle. Make sure the people you surround yourself with are looking out for you and your best interests versus just trying to sell you something you don’t really need.”—Nicky Reinhard, owner, Nicky Reinhard Events


Appreciate Wedding Planning“A wedding is a micro vision of the larger macro vision of life. The time couples spend wedding planning allows them to decide how they want to navigate familial traditions, cultures, expectations, and needs as they transition into their new lives as their own family. It’s important to see this time can be an adventure, rather than a stressful experience!”—Elizabeth McKellar, owner, The Nouveau Romantics
 5 Bonding Moments Every Couple Has During Wedding Planning

Practice Self-Care“Planning a wedding can be an entire year of your life or more, and it can make or break your wedding experience. Practice self-care during your engagement period. Have date nights where you make it off-limits to talk about the wedding. If things get stressful, remember that the wedding comes and goes in six hours, or in a weekend, and then it's over. It's one of the most amazing things to have everyone you love in one place. Relax and enjoy it.”—Alison Laesser-Keck, owner, Alison Bryan Destinations


Keep the Day Personal"A wedding should be personal and reflective of the couple—their stories, shared interests, family backgrounds, personal styles and travels—versus something built on recycled ideas from other weddings. I encourage couples to draw inspiration from the stories of how they met, what they did on their first date, and how they became engaged. It’s easy to find a few details from those stories that naturally translate into fun and unique elements on the wedding day. For example, for the couple who got engaged on a mountain one snowy night in Colorado, we decided to feature a snow machine at their reception. Guests were showered with snowflakes as they left the venue at the end of the night, and everyone loved how the moment was a nod to bride and groom’s engagement story.”—Allison Jackson, owner, Pineapple Productions


Prioritize Your Guests“It’s important to keep the total guest experience in mind, especially for those traveling to the wedding. When choosing your date, be sure to do your homework on what is happening in and around your destination town or city. Parades, graduations, and city-wide conferences will impact hotel and transportation rates.”—Emily Butler, owner, Karson Butler Events


Save Money on Invites"Choosing a rectangular wedding invitation over a square format will save you money on postage, as the USPS considers a square envelope an ‘odd-size’ shape they can’t pass a square envelope through their machines. They call this ‘nonmachineable’ and as such, these envelopes result in an additional $0.15 per envelope. That’s on top of the postage required for the weight and dimensions of your envelope! BTW, it’s perfectly acceptable to forgo an actual RSVP card and envelope, and provide an email address for guests to respond to instead.”—David Stark, chief creative officer, David Stark Design and Production


Repurpose Your Flowers“I always suggest couples donate their flower arrangements to local charities after their wedding. The florals will brighten up someone’s day, and as a couple, they can feel better knowing the money they spent on a large budget item is going to be appreciated a second time around. We repurposed the florals from Julianne Hough & Brooks Laich’s wedding and created over 450 small arrangements that were delivered the day after the wedding by Full Bloom, a company that recycles gently used flowers to local hospices, hospitals, and nursing homes. It was magical.”—Troy Williams, principal and event designer, Simply Troy Lifestyle + Events


Make Your Guests Comfortable“Focus on the touch points that allow guests to be present throughout the weekend. For instance, if your ceremony has the possibility of being too hot or cold, make sure to address those issues with blankets, fans, and water. For the reception, always make sure you have enough servers and bartenders. If guests aren’t able to get a drink or wait too long for their meal, it doesn’t matter how beautiful or fun your wedding is. Guests will be focused on their needs not being met and they won’t be able to enjoy the celebration as you’ve intended them to.”—Beth Helmstetter, creative director, Beth Helmstetter Events


Make the Marriage Your Priority“In the rush of planning, don't lose sight of the big picture. Nothing about a wedding is as important as the marriage that will follow. A wedding is a beginning, not an end in and of itself. There will be different points of view, and perhaps even disagreements, as you plan your wedding. Always make your marriage the priority, the details of the wedding become just that, details.”—Bronson Van Wyck, owner, Van Wyck & Van Wyck


Wait To Say Yes To A Dress“Don't buy your wedding dress before you've decided on a location or date—you’ll want to choose one that fits perfectly with the venue setting and the time of year.”—Rebecca Marin Shepherd, owner, The Wildflowers
 The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Shopping

Don't Sweat the Small (or Big!) Stuff“Everything won’t go according to plan on your wedding day. Keep perspective and remember your marriage is the most important part of the process. Surround yourself with people you can lean on, so you don’t sweat the small or big stuff. Soak in every detail because the wedding day will go by quicker than you can possibly imagine.”—Betsy Krug, co-owner & event director, Rebecca Rose Events