1. Don't blow all of your budget on your venue.

Let’s talk about that dirty word: budget. As a planner, even I am aghast at how much weddings cost. But the reality is, weddings are expensive and so it is wise to establish your expectations and priorities at the very start.

A common mistake we see couples make is investing all of their money into their venue before they truly understand all of the costs that lie ahead in the planning process. Then they find themselves in a position of not having enough money for the rest of the wedding. 

When we work with our clients we undertake a budget planning exercise to identify every potential line item for the wedding, including ones that aren’t as obvious as things like florals or photography.  It’s tempting to book that dream venue, but just make sure you have the resources for all of the other expenses that are coming down the line. And remember: things (sadly) always cost more than you think.

2. Don’t feel tied to the traditional wedding “formula.”

When thinking about your wedding celebration, don’t feel bound by what is traditionally done or what weddings “typically” look like. Instead, design something that feels reflective of you as a couple. It is your wedding, not anyone else's. Start by prioritizing what is important to both of you, then set a vision and remind each other (and those around you) what your wedding day means to you. 

One of our favorite things to do is to listen to the priorities of the couple and then help them “deconstruct” the traditional formula and rebuild it into something that is true to them. We help them reimagine, ideate, think out of the box, so their day tells their unique story in a way they are excited about.  

So, do things differently (or keep it traditional) – you have the freedom to decide!

3. Bring in the pros. 

Your engagement and wedding planning should be a memorable and enjoyable journey, not a stressful one. Surround yourself with a talented, seasoned, an experienced team of vendors, so you and your partner don't need to worry about anything except each other on your wedding day. 

Your vendors are your allies, and your planner can help you build a powerhouse vendor team that will implement your specific vision. And I promise you, expertise will serve you in the long run. Remember to enjoy your engagement and let your wedding planner work with your vendor team to take care of all the details! 

Still not convinced? Check back in a few weeks for my posts on misperceptions about wedding planners and how to select a wedding planner.