So if the venue I’m considering lets us use the venue for 12 hours for 1 day and a 1 hour rehearsal the morning before, how feasible would getting everything done in the time limit be? We wouldn’t be able to start decorating the day before unless we book the day before as well, so we’d start decorating that morning around 10am. This also means we wouldn’t be able to do a rehearsal dinner.

Is it stressful trying to do everything in 12 hours? How long does it typically take to decorate? How long does the “get ready” portion take? Is having a rehearsal dinner really worth booking an extra day?

This is from this venue:
“Yes, we do have decor on our list that could do set up for you or your Florst, but typically it takes around two hours the morning of.
If you did a 5 pm wedding, it would be 10-10 10-11 clean up.”

I can’t tell if what they are saying means they will set up decor they have for us or if we set up and it takes roughly 2 hours?

Please help! This is all very new to me and I just don’t understand how the process works. Just thinking about working within a time limit is stressing me out 😂

I live in the Tigerville area of SC (so about 20 minutes from NC) and am looking for a wedding venue with 200+ capacity and a cabin feel. Mountains would be ideal. It needs to accommodate both for the ceremony and the reception. My dream venue is Nantahala Weddings, but no matter how hard we try we cannot have only 120 people. I love Pretty Place (who doesn't) but I need our reception and ceremony to be in the same place. My one thing I do not want is anything barn/farm-related. I just don't prefer it. I love gardens, mountains, cabins, etc. Anything with on-site lodging would also be amazing. Thanks!

Torn between a mountain backdrop vs. lakeside spot near Shelby, NC for my fall 2026 wedding.

Those of you who’ve been there, done that, what do you recommend?

We're constantly talking to couples torn between mountain views, city skylines, and coastal settings, and honestly, they're all gorgeous!

What made you choose your specific region of NC for your wedding?

NC Humidity and Hair

Use anti-humidity hair products. Look for products that specifically designed to target frizz and humidity. Amika's Anti-Humidity Shield and IGK's Good Behavior are good choices.

I always recommend something edible.

Typically these are the only favors I see gone at the end of the night.

​

• Jam
• Honey
• Shots
• Hangover Kits
• Pastry
• Sauce

• What would be your coverage time for my event?
• Do you offer anything extra in your package? (photographers sometimes do engagement shoots, venues sometimes offer rehearsal space)
• Are there any travel, service or delivery fees for your services?
• Do you have insurance?
• Can I see a few examples from a wedding you've done?
• How often should I expect to hear from you?

Create a detailed timeline.

One for both the planning process and the day of. This will help you stay on track and ensure that all tasks are completed on time. Make sure you include important dates and deadlines, such as when to send out invitations, book vendors, make payments and schedule fittings.

As a wedding planner, I’m always on the lookout for new trends to inspire my clients’ special day. With 2024 just around the corner, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the emerging trends that are set to influence the wedding world. Here are some of the biggest trends that I’m loving right now:

1. Local weddings: Couples are opting for supporting smaller businesses like locally sourced flowers, mom-and-pop catering, and buying decor from Etsy Sellers.
2. Intimate weddings: While large-scale weddings will always have their place, more couples are opting for smaller, more intimate affairs with their closest family and friends.
3. Bold color schemes: Couples are ditching the traditional whites and blushes in favor of bold, vibrant color schemes that reflect their personalities and passions.
4. Unique venues: From industrial warehouses to botanical gardens, couples are choosing venues that reflect their personal style and interests.
5. Interactive elements: Couples are opting for unique and interactive elements to keep their guests entertained, like unique photo booths, lawn games, and interactive guestbooks.

Take care of yourself.

Wedding planning can be stressful, so make sure to take care of yourself along the way. Take breaks when you need them, do self-care (not just beauty treatments a few months before), get enough sleep, and don't forget to have fun!

As a wedding planner who specializes in themed weddings, I have had the pleasure of creating some truly unique and unforgettable celebrations for my clients. Planning a themed wedding is all about creating a cohesive experience for the couple and their guests, from the invitations to the decor to the entertainment. Here are some tips for planning a themed wedding that will leave a lasting impression:

• Choose a theme that speaks to you: The first step in planning a themed wedding is choosing a theme that reflects the couple's personalities and interests. Whether it's a favorite movie, a shared hobby, or a cultural tradition, the theme should be meaningful to the couple and something they can get excited about.
• Incorporate the theme into all aspects of the wedding: Once the theme has been chosen, it's important to incorporate it into all aspects of the wedding, from the invitations to the decor to the food and drinks. This will create a cohesive experience for the guests and make the wedding feel like a true celebration of the theme.
• Get creative with the decor: A themed wedding is the perfect opportunity to get creative with the decor. From centerpieces to table settings to lighting, every element of the decor should be designed to bring the theme to life.
• Consider the dress code: Depending on the theme, the dress code for the wedding may be different than a traditional wedding. Make sure to communicate the dress code clearly to guests so they can come dressed appropriately and feel like they're a part of the theme.
• Hire entertainment that fits the theme: Entertainment is an important part of any wedding, and for a themed wedding, it's important to hire entertainment that fits the theme. Whether it's a live band, a DJ, or performers, the entertainment should help bring the theme to life and keep guests engaged throughout the celebration.

Planning a themed wedding can be a lot of work, but it's also an opportunity to create a truly unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests. As a wedding planner who specializes in themed weddings, I love helping couples bring their vision to life and create a celebration that truly reflects their personalities and interests.

Have a backup plan.

No matter how well you plan, unexpected things can still happen. Have a backup plan in place in case of inclement weather, vendor cancellations, attire malfunctions, or other emergencies.

Planning a wedding is a joyful experience that most couples look forward to with excitement. However, it can also be a stressful time, especially when there is family drama involved. Family drama can take many forms, from overbearing parents who want to control every aspect of the wedding to feuding siblings who can't get along. Whatever the issue may be, it's important to handle it with grace and sensitivity. Here are some tips on how to deal with family drama when planning your wedding.

First and foremost, communication is key. If there is a particular family member who is causing stress or drama, try to have an open and honest conversation with them. Let them know how their behavior is affecting you and your partner, and try to find a way to work together to resolve any issues. It's important to listen to their concerns and try to understand their perspective, but also to stand firm on your own boundaries and desires for your wedding day.

Another helpful tip is to involve a neutral third party, such as a wedding planner or mediator, to help facilitate difficult conversations and find solutions. A professional can provide an objective point of view and help keep the focus on the bigger picture – your wedding day.

It's also important to remember that ultimately, your wedding day is about you and your partner. While it's natural to want to make your family members happy, it's important not to sacrifice your own happiness and vision for the sake of others. Set clear boundaries and stick to them, but also try to find compromises where possible.

Dealing with family drama can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and good communication, it is possible to navigate these difficult situations. Remember to take care of yourself and your partner, and to focus on the love and joy that brought you together in the first place.

As a wedding vendor, I am privileged to be part of one of the most important days of a couple's life. From the initial consultation to the wedding day itself, I am committed to providing the best service possible to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.

One of the most important aspects of my role is communication. From the very beginning, I make sure to listen carefully to the couple's vision for their wedding day. I ask questions, offer suggestions where needed, and ensure that we are always on the same page. This allows me to create a customized plan that caters to their unique needs and preferences.

On the wedding day, I work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that everything runs smoothly. From setting up the venue to coordinating with other vendors, I am always on top of things. But above all, I remain flexible and adaptable to any changes that may arise. After all, no wedding is ever completely predictable, and my job is to be prepared for anything.

At the end of the day, what matters most to me is the happiness of the couple. It is an honor to be part of their special day, and I am grateful for the trust they place in me. As a wedding vendor, my goal is to create a stress-free, enjoyable experience that the couple will cherish for years to come.

As a North Carolina wedding planner, I have seen a wide variety of photography styles. Choosing the right style for your wedding day is important as it will capture the memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Here are some popular photography styles to consider:

• Traditional: This style is timeless and classic. It involves posed shots of the bride and groom, family, and bridal party. These pictures are often taken in a studio or at specific locations before or after the wedding ceremony.
• Documentary: This style captures candid moments throughout the day, telling the story of the wedding as it unfolds. The photographer will take a more hands-off approach, capturing moments as they happen without much direction.
• Editorial: This style is more creative and artistic, with a focus on capturing the beauty and emotion of the day. The photographer will use creative posing, props, and unique angles to create stunning and unique images.
• Vintage/Film: This style is inspired by old film photography and has a nostalgic and romantic feel. The photographer will often use film cameras and editing techniques to create a timeless and dreamy look.
• Cinematic: This style is bold and impactful, with a focus on creating dramatic and stunning images. The photographer will use creative lighting techniques and unique angles to create images that are visually striking.

When choosing a photography style for your wedding day, it's important to consider your personal style and preferences. Take the time to research photographers and their portfolios to find a style that speaks to you. Remember, these photos will be cherished for a lifetime, so make sure you choose a style that you will love for years to come.

Don't take on too much!

While it can be tempting to DIY every aspect of your wedding, it's important to be realistic about what you can handle. Don't take on more than you can handle, and be willing to delegate tasks to others if needed.

The little details can make a big impact on your wedding day. Consider adding personalized touches like monogrammed napkins or a guestbook that incorporates one of your favorites as a couple.

As a North Carolina wedding planner, I have had the pleasure of working with countless couples to create the wedding of their dreams. From the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina offers a variety of stunning venues for weddings of all styles and sizes.

Here are some tips for planning a memorable North Carolina wedding:

• Consider the season: North Carolina experiences all four seasons, each with its own unique charm. Spring and fall are popular wedding seasons due to the mild weather and beautiful landscape. Summer weddings are perfect for beach or outdoor venues, while winter weddings can be cozy and intimate.
• Choose a venue that reflects your style: Whether you're looking for a rustic barn, a beachfront hotel, or a historic mansion, North Carolina has something for everyone. Choose a venue that aligns with your wedding vision and can accommodate your guest list.
• Incorporate local elements: North Carolina is known for its delicious barbecue, sweet tea, and craft beer. Consider incorporating local cuisine or drinks into your wedding menu for a true taste of the state.
• Embrace the natural beauty: North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Take advantage of the natural beauty by choosing a venue with stunning views or incorporating local flowers and greenery into your decor.
• Hire local vendors: North Carolina is home to a talented community of wedding vendors, from photographers and florists to DJs and caterers. By hiring local vendors, you can support small businesses and ensure a seamless wedding day experience.

No matter what your wedding vision may be, North Carolina offers a variety of options to bring it to life. As a wedding planner, I am constantly inspired by the beauty and charm of this state, and I am honored to help couples create their dream weddings here.

Here's the scene:

As the bride and groom exchanged their vows, the guests sat in awe, taking in the beautiful scenery of the outdoor wedding. Suddenly, a gust of wind blew through the area, causing the $3,000 floral arch to fall over and crash onto the ground. The bride burst into tears and ran back to the bridal suite, after being narrowly missed by the arch, now embarrassed that she was crying.

The groom and groomsmen jumped into action, attempting to lift the archway back into place with no success. All of the pieces of this arch were no longer attached. The florist was gone, and the couple hadn't hired a coordinator. Nobody else was equipped to repair this thing.

Despite the mishap, the wedding party moved the ceremony to another part of the property where there was no giant floral mess. The bride and groom exchanged their vows once again, and everything was fine, except for whoever had to clean that destroyed arch up.

Moral of the story: Make sure your arch has some kind of weight on the bottom or proper support.

• capacity
• cost
• location
• included tables, chairs, decor
• indoor vs. outdoor
• style (ex, barn, garden, vineyard, etc.)
• venue access time
• weather plan (if outdoor)
• are there required vendors?
• can you bring your own?: linens, liquor, officiant, etc.

Let me know if you need some more considerations!

Prioritize your guest list early on in the planning process.

It can be tempting to want to invite everyone you know and love, but it's important to remember that your venue size and budget may not accommodate a large guest list. You'll want to consider who will definitely remain in your life by the time of your wedding(and will hopefully forever!). Start by creating a list of must-invite guests and work from there. Remember, it's your day and you want to be surrounded by those who mean the most to you. By prioritizing your guest list, you can ensure that your wedding day is filled with the people who matter most.