The dress, a venue, flowers, catering, entertainment, invitation suite…where to begin and how best to navigate all of the details? No need to fear when you have a wedding coordinator who can help with all these wedding details (and so many more!) When it comes to planning a wedding, there are a million decisions to make, but here are some key things to keep in mind. Before diving into all the wedding details remember to enjoy the process and have FUN planning your wedding. After all, it is the journey that will make the destination everything you dreamed and more!

1)  Book your venue first

The availability of the venue will determine when your wedding date will take place. Typically weddings are held on Friday or Saturday, so those days tend to be the most expensive. If you are working on a budget, consider having your wedding on a Thursday or Sunday to cut down on your venue cost.

2)  Establish a budget

Wedding costs can quickly add up, and establishing a budget is key. Keeping in mind that there may be unanticipated costs that come to light is important when establishing a realistic budget. Overestimate as many times after you’ve established a budget and secured your venue, (i.e. certain venues require guests to be shuttled in, require additional restrooms or outdoor lighting, etc.) there can be unexpected expenses. Don’t panic about the costs, but do plan ahead so there are no surprises. A wedding coordinator will help you find options you love that fit within your budget.

3) Time to say Yes to the Dress!

You’ve picked your venue, you’ve set the budget, now it’s time to have some fun! Shopping for your wedding gown should be an exciting and memorable experience.  Including your closest friends and family will ensure that you make memories that will last a lifetime! Schedule your appointment after you’ve had some time to research what type of dress you envision for yourself, but keep an open mind. Oftentimes brides a surprised when they find themself saying “yes” to a dress they wouldn’t have initially considered.

4)  Photography and Videography

The photos you have of your wedding will be cherished for years to come, so consider this an essential part of your special day. As they say, memories may fade, but a photo is forever. Hiring a videographer will also capture moments with movement and sound bringing the memories to life. Both will allow you to re-live the day all over again once receiving the final gallery, and for years to come.

5)  Band or DJ

Music is the best way to let loose and enjoy some time on the dance floor with your loved ones! Choosing your music can feel daunting, but it all comes down to your personal taste! A live band leaves a classy and fun impression but can run up your budget, so consider booking them for the ceremony or cocktail hour and let the DJ lead you out on the dance floor.

6)  Catering

You can be as creative as your heart desires, and this is an area we find couples get most imaginative with! Choices vary from food trucks to taco stands, to traditional caterers, and even enlisting favorite restaurants. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the menu you worked so hard to create! On the day of the wedding, couples become so busy that dinner can fall by the wayside. To refresh the vibe during dancing you can surprise your guests with late-night snacks; nothing can crash a party like a hangry crowd 😉

7) Hire a Wedding Planner

Your wedding planner will ensure that all details of your wedding are handled and nothing slips through the cracks. Most coordinators have varying levels of service to choose from, from comprehensive year-of planning packages to day-of coordination, depending on how hands-on you wish to be and how much assistance you’re looking for. At a minimum you should be fully covered on your wedding day, with your coordinator equipped with timelines and layouts, managing all vendors, and ensuring the day runs smoothly on schedule. Best of all, your coordinator will alleviate all anxiety so you can sit stress-free in hair and make-up, champagne in hand on your wedding day!

8)  It is YOUR wedding!

Remember, this wedding is for you and your partner; make sure the day is what you want it to look like and that it includes everything your heart desires. Compose your wedding party of people you care most about, and those you want to have standing by your side on what is likely the most important day of your life up to this point. Remember that it is your day; choose things that reflect you both as a couple, and things that will make you happy!

Learn more about Smith and Murphy’s wedding planning services at www.smithandmurphy.com or check them out on Instagram and Facebook!