Under Pressure

Meghan and Ryan at Elkins Estate Photo Credit: Josh Lynn Photography

One of the things I've noticed after many years of planning weddings is that couples are often encouraged to make important decisions very quickly.  "Book today."  "Only two dates left."  "This price expires tomorrow."  "Everyone uses this vendor."  Sometimes those statements are true.  Sometimes they aren't.  But here's what I want every engaged couple to remember:  The best wedding decisions are rarely made under pressure.   They're made with clarity. When there is pressure, from a vendor, from a planner, from a venue, stop and think about why they are pressuring you. Do they get a commission, are they newer and trying to build an empty calendar? Stop and think about how this makes you feel.

When you hire a venue, planner, photographer, florist, or any other member of your wedding team, ask yourself one simple question:  Do I feel  informed, or do I feel rushed?  There's a difference.  The professionals who are right for you will answer your questions.  They'll explain their process.  They'll respect your priorities.  They'll help you understand your options.  They won't make you feel guilty for asking questions or taking time to think. And, if it feels right, go ahead and commit. But, if you have any question, any doubt, need more time to process the conversation, wait. You don't have to "interview" 10 vendors for every piece of your wedding team. That can be worse than deciding too soon. However, you will know when it feels right. You will feel that connection.

Your wedding is too important to be built on pressure.  It should be built on confidence.  You deserve to feel excited when you sign a contract, not anxious.  I've learned that the right decisions almost always begin the same way.  Not with pressure.  With trust.

And trust has never been something that should be rushed.