There’s a LOT to think about when you’re planning a wedding! Suddenly, you’re expected to be an expert in everything. Just because you’re engaged, you now have to learn about the quality of diamonds, etiquette for formal invitations and how to throw a huge dinner party, flawlessly.
It can be a little overwhelming!
Luckily, there’s help. There are professionals that have been working with brides and grooms for years and have smart tips to offer those who are new to planning their wedding. I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of these amazing local wedding professionals within the Corridor and then I share their advice on the Corridor Wedding Guide website.
Some timely advice I’ll share today is about wedding receptions. Of course, picking a wedding date goes hand-in-hand with choosing a ceremony and reception site. Until you have those locked in, your wedding date is still just an idea. And, deciding on your reception location can really set the tone for your event.
These articles offer advice on everything from choosing the location and getting the right amount of food for dinner to decorations and wedding day timelines. Here is sampling of the expert tips and advice:
“Before a couple starts looking at reception sites, it’s important to have a good estimate of their guest list, says Tazia. Every location has a capacity. Knowing how many people you would like to invite can help with choosing the location large enough to hold everyone. Or, if the spot you love is smaller than your guest list, you’ll know if you have to limit the number of guests.” Read more advice from Tazia and the Shores Event Center here.
“Ellen says couples should have a clear vision of what they want for their wedding day and share that with everyone. It helps her to meet- and hopefully exceed- those exceptions, which can be hard to do if the couple hasn’t expressed them. ‘It’s your big day and you’ll be spending a lot of money. You want to make sure you get what you want, that they “get” your vision.'” Read more advice from Ellen and the Clarion Highlander Hotel here.
“There are many details to consider and items you may have to rent when planning your reception. Luckily, some wedding locations, such as the Marriott, make it stress-free because the hotel can take care of most everything for the wedding couple. In addition to the room and catering, Marriott offers linens and dishes, extra tables, centerpieces, lighting, “pipe and drape,” dance floor, and even a microphone and sound system. Since they provide so many options that they can do for you, this is less worry and stress for you.” Read more advice from Kerry and the Cedar Rapids Marriott Hotel here.
“Trends that are big right now are “rustic,” DIY, and quality, simplistic decorating that’s not over done. Ruth says to have fun with all the DIY wedding projects you see online. ‘Save money with ideas that you find on Etsy or Pinterest. Use the money that you save on decorations and spend it on better food because that’s something you want your guests to remember well.'” Read more advice from Ruth and A Touch of Class Banquets and Convention Center.
I love interviewing these wedding pros and hope the advice they share can help you with all your wedding planning! Happy reading and happy planning!