Helping You NOT Regret Your Choices

Magical Photo Ops at Parque

Couples planning a wedding have so many decisions to make.  And, it is interesting to me that they rely on social media for answers and often get stuck with the results.  So, lets break down some of the things that trap couples into making mistakes in planning.

Before you sign a contract with a venue, ask the questions- what is included- tables, chairs staff, etc, is there a gratuity included in the per person price,  is the catering exclusive or can you bring in your own, what is the policy on liquor, what “add- ons” are necessary, is there a

rain plan for any outdoor element of your wedding.  All of these things matter in the final price tag when you sign the contract.

Everyone has a budget.  But, hiring vendors solely on price can be a huge mistake.  Again, social media is saturated with vendors trying to fill a calendar.  Some are great, others are not.  If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is.  A DJ who only charges $500 for ceremony and reception, is not realistic.  Do they have the right equipment, microphones for the ceremony and speeches?  A planner who charges less than $1000 for planning is a red flag.  Do they have a website, a business page on social media, reviews?   Vet your vendors.  And, don’t let price be your only guide to hiring someone.  I see horror stories every day from couples who hire cheaper vendors and wind up spending more money on replacing them and losing deposits.Another mistake couples make is assuming that DIY is cheaper.  It may not be and it may create added stress in planning and spending extra money on finding someone to set up your DIY on your wedding day.  Think carefully before you decide to take on your entire wedding decor yourself.  

Weather is always an issue.  Rain in the spring, snow in the winter, hurricanes in the fall.  Always have a rain plan and make sure your venue has the resources to accommodate weather issues.

A Snowy, Icy Fairyland

Some couples start hiring their team right after they get engaged, others wait because they feel they have “time”.  Don’t make the mistake of waiting too long, especially if you have particular vendors in mind.  Get the venue booked, hire your essential team- DJ or band, florist, rentals, transportation, etc.  If you wait too long, you may have to settle for inferior vendors.  This adds stress to planning and may add cost or disappointment on your wedding day.   And, brides, give yourself plenty of time to order your dress and your bridesmaids dresses.  Bridal gowns take time, on average, 6-9 months.  Bridesmaids 3-6 months.  Avoid rush charges by waiting too long.  

Relying on friends and family to do tasks on your wedding day takes away from their enjoyment.  It also may pull them away from memories like getting ready, dressing the bride, etc.  Hiring professionals is much more cost effective in the long run.  There is someone for every budget, and there are venues that will assist in setting up DIY items, or your florist can assist in helping you with DIY projects.

Things to consider when searching for venues and vendors- what looks perfect on line may not be what the reality is.  Just like buying a home, the website may look like the home is pristine and they have it staged to entice you.  In reality, there may be things that you hate when you tour.  Same is true about venues.  It may look like the fairy tale on line, but when you get there, it may be a very different story.  There may be logistical issues, there may be additional rentals needed, you may not like the exclusive caterer, there may be noise ordinances. The vendor may not include things that you have to add on and pay for, like DJ's without the right equipment, a florist that won't set up, only deliver or only deliver to one place- leaving your getting ready photos without your bouquet.   All of these things can impact your wedding and cost you money or peace of mind- or both.  

What looked simple suddenly becomes complicated.  After more than two decades in weddings, I've learned that the most expensive mistakes are rarely caused by bad intentions.  They're caused by incomplete information.  That's why experienced planning matters.  Not because someone tells you what to do.  Because someone helps you see what you can't yet see.  The best wedding decisions aren't made quickly.  They are well thought out, based on reality and best made with an experienced set of eyes.  Careful, informed planning will save you time, money and a whole lot of stress.  

The Outdoor Ceremony at Appleford