Here’s a detailed guide to help you secure the must-haves for your big day—without the stress of last-minute chaos.

The Golden Rule: Start Early, Stay Flexible

Before diving into timelines, one truth stands out: the earlier you start, the better. Giving yourself a wide runway ensures you have access to top-rated vendors, a choice of venues, and the ability to pivot if something doesn’t go as planned.

But how early is early enough? That depends on the type and size of your event.

12 to 18 Months Before: Book Your Venue

Your venue sets the stage—literally—for your entire event. Popular wedding venues, event halls, and even unique spaces like vineyards or lofts can be fully booked more than a year in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall for weddings, December for holiday parties).

Tip: Tour venues early and be prepared to put down a deposit quickly if you find “the one.” Once the venue is locked in, you can set your date with confidence and start booking the rest.

10 to 12 Months Before: Hire Your Core Vendors

Once your venue is secured, it’s time to book the key players who will shape the experience:

• Photographer/Videographer: Top professionals often book over a year in advance. If your event date is non-negotiable, don’t delay.
• Caterers: Many venues have a preferred list, but if you’re sourcing your own, begin tasting sessions and comparing packages early.
• Entertainment: Whether it’s a DJ, live band, or both, music services should be locked in at least 10 months in advance.
• Planner/Coordinator: If you’re hiring an event planner, earlier is better—especially if you want their help with vendor selection.

8 to 10 Months Before: Secure Specialty Services

By now, your event blueprint should be taking shape. It’s time to fill in the details that enhance the atmosphere.

This includes florists, décor designers, lighting professionals, and bar services. For example, if you’re planning to hire bar service, don’t assume it can be added at the last minute. Many professional services offer mobile bar setups, custom drink menus, and certified bartenders—and their availability can dwindle fast during busy months.

Pro Tip: Ask your bar service if they provide glassware, mixers, and garnishes, or if those need to be sourced separately. Early communication avoids last-minute hiccups.

6 to 8 Months Before: Send Save-the-Dates and Book Secondary Vendors

Now that your major vendors are locked in, start notifying your guests, especially if it’s a destination event. At this point, it’s also time to book:

• Transportation services (buses, limos)
• Rentals (tables, chairs, tents, linens)
• Hair and makeup artists
• Specialty entertainment (magicians, dancers, photo booths)

This is also a good time to think about bartenders for events, particularly if your venue doesn’t include one. Hiring professionals ensures your guests enjoy expertly crafted drinks and you stay in compliance with local liquor laws.

4 to 6 Months Before: Final Touches and Guest Management

It’s easy to overlook these smaller items, but they’re just as important to the event experience. Start designing and ordering:

• Invitations
• Signage
• Party favors
• Event programs or itineraries

Also, finalize your guest list and start collecting RSVPs. The sooner you have an accurate headcount, the easier it is to manage seating arrangements and catering quantities.

2 to 3 Months Before: Confirm, Confirm, Confirm

This is the “triple-check” stage. Go through each vendor and make sure contracts are signed, deposits are paid, and final walkthroughs or tastings are scheduled.

Also, touch base with your venue to confirm logistics—arrival times, access for vendors, and setup/teardown plans.

1 Month Before: Final Details

With just weeks to go, it’s time to:

• Provide final headcounts to vendors
• Distribute a detailed schedule to your team or planner
• Confirm music playlists, ceremony details, and speeches
• Assemble gift bags or welcome kits if needed

1 Week Before: Breathe and Enjoy

By this point, all major tasks should be done. Use the week before your event to take care of yourself, handle last-minute errands, and mentally prepare to enjoy the celebration you’ve worked so hard to plan.

Booking vendors and planning an event isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about crafting an experience. From the atmosphere of your venue to the flavors in each cocktail, every detail plays a role in bringing your vision to life.

Starting early not only guarantees a better selection but also gives you the freedom to make thoughtful decisions without the pressure of a ticking clock. Whether you’re booking florals, food, or bartenders for events, getting ahead of the game is the best gift you can give yourself—and your guests.

So take out that calendar, mark your ideal event date, and work backward from there. Your future self will thank you.

What Defines an Effortlessly Relaxed Wedding Look?

A relaxed wedding look combines elements of formal attire with a carefree attitude. It’s about looking polished but not overdone. The beauty lies in subtle choices—soft fabrics, natural colors, and understated accessories. But even with this casual twist, grooms should still appear dapper.

One excellent way to integrate both comfort and style is through your footwear. That’s right! Golf shoes can seamlessly blend into a groom’s attire, offering a unique yet comfortable touch.

The Foundation: Selecting the Right Suit

Your suit sets the tone for a relaxed vibe. But relaxed doesn’t mean scruffy; it’s about choosing the right fit, fabric, and style to keep things casual yet classy.

Lightweight Fabrics for Comfort

For an effortlessly relaxed wedding look, opt for breathable fabrics. Heavy, structured suits can look stiff and formal, so consider alternatives like:

• Linen: A classic for outdoor or summer weddings. It’s lightweight, giving a breezy feel. Linen suits in light shades of grey, beige, or tan add that touch of sophistication while maintaining a laid-back air.
• Cotton: Offers a soft texture and is great for warmer weather. A cotton suit keeps things easy-going without compromising on style.
• Wool Blends: Go for lightweight wool or wool-linen blends. They offer a refined look with the added bonus of temperature regulation.

Pro Tip: Avoid synthetic fabrics. They trap heat and can make you uncomfortable. Comfort is the goal, so stick with natural materials.

Colors that Speak ‘Relaxed’

When it comes to an effortlessly relaxed wedding look, color plays a significant role. Dark, heavy colors like black and deep navy can be formal. Instead, lean towards:

• Light Greys: Offers a soft, easy-going feel without being too casual.
• Beige or Tan: Adds warmth and works beautifully for outdoor ceremonies.
• Pastels: Soft blues, greens, or even blush tones can add a unique twist to your attire.

Adding the Laid-Back Twist: Shirts and Accessories

The best way to tone down the formality of a suit is with your choice of shirt and accessories. Here’s how to master this part of the look.

Skip the Tie (or Not)

Grooms don’t always need to wear a tie. A crisp, unbuttoned shirt collar can do wonders for a relaxed wedding look. If you want a middle ground, go for:

• Bowties: A patterned bowtie in a casual fabric like cotton adds personality without looking too stuffy.
• Neckties: Opt for a loose, loosely knotted necktie in light fabrics and soft colors. Linen or cotton ties can introduce that relaxed vibe.

Shirt Styles for the Relaxed Groom

Your shirt choice can significantly impact how laid-back or formal you appear. Here’s how to choose the right one:

• Linen Shirts: Perfect for summer weddings. They’re breathable and slightly wrinkled texture screams “effortlessly cool.”
• Oxford Shirts: An Oxford shirt with a button-down collar can add a touch of informality while keeping things crisp.
• Mandarin Collars: For those who want something unique, mandarin collar shirts add a dash of casual elegance.

Quick Tip: Stick to neutral or pastel shirt colors. Whites, light blues, or soft pinks pair beautifully with relaxed suit colors.

The Perfect Footwear: Mixing Style with Comfort

Now, let’s talk footwear. This is where you can truly blend comfort with style. While many grooms go for traditional dress shoes, there’s an alternative that offers both a laid-back look and comfort—golf shoes. Yes, golf shoes might just be the perfect pick for that effortlessly relaxed wedding vibe.

Golf Shoes: A Unique Twist for the Groom

Golf shoes aren’t just for the greens. Modern designs make them a versatile option that can be incorporated into wedding attire. Here’s why they work:

• Comfort: Designed for long wear, golf shoes offer cushioning and support. Perfect for grooms who’ll be on their feet all day. Don’t forget to consider the insoles. Customizable insoles can add an extra layer of comfort, providing arch support and reducing foot fatigue. For grooms planning to be on their feet all day, this small addition can make a big difference.
• Style Variety: Available in leather, suede, and even sneaker styles. You can find a pair that matches your suit while adding a casual twist.
• Functionality: If you’re having an outdoor wedding, the soles of golf shoes provide excellent grip, preventing any slips on grassy areas or sandy beaches.

Pro Tip: Choose a pair in neutral shades like white, grey, or beige to keep them understated yet stylish.

Completing the Look: Accessories and Grooming

Accessories can help elevate your relaxed wedding look without veering into overly formal territory. Consider these elements to finalize your ensemble.

Pocket Squares and Boutonnieres

• Pocket Squares: Add a splash of color with a pocket square in a casual pattern like checks or florals. Choose lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Boutonnieres: A simple flower or greenery pin can complement your suit and add a touch of romance.

Grooming for the Casual Vibe

An effortlessly relaxed wedding look isn’t complete without the right grooming. You don’t have to go for a clean-shaven face unless that’s your style. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

• Hair: A slightly tousled hairstyle can complement the laid-back look. Use a light styling product to keep things in place without looking overly sculpted.
• Facial Hair: A neatly trimmed beard or a touch of stubble adds character and can be part of the “effortless” charm.

A Laid-Back Wedding Checklist for Grooms

When planning your wedding day ensemble, it’s essential to keep all elements aligned with the effortlessly relaxed theme. Use this quick checklist to ensure you’ve got everything covered.

Real-Life Examples of Effortlessly Relaxed Wedding Looks

1. Beach Wedding: Imagine a groom in a beige linen suit, white linen shirt with the top buttons undone, and a pair of white leather golf shoes. The look is elegant yet beach-friendly.
2. Garden Wedding: Picture a groom wearing a light grey cotton suit with a pastel pink shirt and a loosely knotted bowtie. Paired with tan golf shoes, he looks ready to celebrate in comfort.
3. Vineyard Ceremony: A groom in a soft green wool-blend suit with a mandarin collar shirt. Accessorized with a floral pocket square and suede golf shoes, he exudes a relaxed, sophisticated vibe.

Mixing Formality and Comfort for the Modern Groom

Creating an effortlessly relaxed wedding look is about merging the best of both worlds—formal wear with a comfortable twist. Grooms today are no longer confined to stiff suits and tight dress shoes. From breathable fabrics to unique footwear choices like golf shoes, there are endless ways to tailor your wedding style to fit your personality.

Making thoughtful decisions about suit fabrics, colors, shirts, and accessories allows you to feel at ease on your big day while still looking impeccably stylish. Don’t shy away from breaking tradition if it means staying true to your relaxed style. The most important thing is that you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate the day.

However, planning a wedding can come with a certain level of stress. From finding the perfect venue to coordinating with vendors and guests, there are many challenges that couples face when preparing for a destination wedding. You need to ensure all of your guests have the necessary documents to travel and make sure that all of the details of the ceremony and reception are taken care of. It is also important to be prepared for any potential obstacles that may arise.

If you feel unsure of how to begin planning your destination wedding, don’t worry. In this blog post, we share four sure tips for planning a successful destination wedding and making a dream come true.

Obtain Wedding Insurance

Every couple wants their wedding day to be perfect, but unexpected events can happen that can put a damper on the big day. That is why it is important to consider getting wedding insurance before you book your destination wedding.

Wedding insurance can help protect you from any unforeseen costs or losses associated with your special day. It can also provide coverage for medical expenses, legal costs, and even cancellations due to natural disasters or other unexpected events. With the right policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your destination wedding will be covered no matter what happens.

Moreover, as you prepare for your destination wedding, don’t overlook the significance of term life insurance when embarking on this new journey with your partner. Consider exploring term life insurance costs to ensure your loved one’s financial security in unforeseen circumstances

Choose Your Location

Choosing the right location for a destination wedding can be a true headache. Whether you are looking for an exotic beach in Hawaii, a vineyard in Italy, or a luxurious mountain resort in the Swiss Alps, there are plenty of options available. However, you must take many factors into consideration such as costs, weather, and availability of vendors. With careful consideration and research, you can find a location that fits your budget and meets all of your needs.

Since the invitations to a destination wedding are usually sent out well in advance, it’s also important to start thinking about booking flights. It is best to book your tickets as soon as possible if you want to avoid any problems that may arise with the last-minute rush, such as expensive tickets in a high season. That’s why you should check to see which are the best days of the week to book a flight and look at travel websites that might have special offers and discounts, so you can save money on airfare.

With the help of online booking sites, you can easily compare different flight options and choose the one that fits your budget and schedule. Furthermore, by preparing in advance, you can make sure that all your guests have enough time to plan and arrive at the destination on time for the wedding.

Create Your Pre-Wedding Beauty Regimen

If you’re planning to have a destination wedding, you need to start your beauty regimen early, so you can look your best on your special day. It is important to plan ahead and create a beauty regimen that suits your skin type and lifestyle. From finding the perfect makeup artist to choosing the right products for your skin, there are many factors that go into creating an effective pre-wedding beauty regimen.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best on your wedding day. Many women seek out dermatologists and surgeons for cosmetic procedures that promise radiant skin and glowing complexion, as well as a little face sculpting. In fact, many brides get Botox before a wedding, and even though this procedure takes only about 15 minutes, you should get it done at least one week before your big day.

For brides conscious of their nasal appearance, liquid rhinoplasty offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional nose surgery. Using dermal fillers, this treatment can modify the nose without invasive procedures or general anesthesia, yielding rapid results often within an hour. This method provides immediate visible enhancements to the nose’s shape, potentially boosting confidence and self-esteem, especially in wedding photos and during the ceremony.”

If, for instance, you’re interested in getting a facelift, conduct your research well ahead of the big day and look for the best plastic surgery clinic in your area. For instance, if you live in Toronto, CA, find a facelift Toronto clinic with top reviews to make sure you’re in the best hands. This way you will have peace of mind knowing that you will look your best for your special day. With a little bit of planning and a few simple cosmetic treatments, you can achieve glowing skin, great hair, and a perfect makeup look for your destination wedding.

Make the Wedding Guest List

The wedding guest list is one of the most difficult tasks for couples. You may want some people to attend, but you may also prefer to leave others out.

If you’ve already nailed down your wedding venue, take into consideration the maximum capacity of the specific venue. Stick to the maximum number when completing your wedding guest list. You can invite a few extra guests than the venue’s capacity, but inviting more than that might cause serious headaches if they all RSVP ‘yes’. If your count is over the limit, you’ll need to trim the list.

Even though planning a destination wedding can quickly become overwhelming, booking your tickets ahead of time, considering your ideal number of guests, and creating your pre-wedding beauty regimen and to-do list, can help you prepare better and have the destination wedding of your dreams. So, take a deep breath and make sure everything goes as planned, but don’t forget to secure a wedding insurance plan to ease your mind.

When it comes to weddings, champagne is not only a celebratory drink but also a reflection of elegance and style. Choosing the perfect champagne that complements your wedding theme, including the champagne wedding color, can add a touch of sophistication to your special day.

In this article, we will explore the different ways champagne is served during weddings and guide you in selecting the ideal champagne for your celebration.

From classic and elegant affairs to rustic bohemian weddings, we will help you find the perfect match for your unique wedding style, ensuring that every sip is a toast to perfection. So, let’s raise our glasses and discover the world of champagne for your dream wedding!

How is champagne served during weddings?

Champagne plays a significant role in key moments of a wedding, such as the toast and the reception. During the toast, when heartfelt words are shared and wishes are expressed, champagne adds a touch of glamor to the occasion. As guests clink their glasses together, the fizzy bubbles and golden hues of champagne create an atmosphere of joy and celebration.

Additionally, champagne can be served throughout the reception, with waitstaff gracefully pouring it into sparkling flutes. It becomes the perfect companion as guests mingle, dance, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Which champagne to use for weddings?

The choice of champagne depends on various factors, including your unique wedding theme, personal taste, and budget. Here are some recommendations tailored to different wedding styles:

1. Classic and Elegant Wedding

For a timeless and sophisticated affair, opt for renowned champagne houses like Moët & Chandon or Bollinger. These prestigious brands offer a range of exquisite champagnes that perfectly complement a classic wedding. With their elegant presentation, delicate flavors, and fine bubbles, they are sure to impress your guests.

As the champagne flows, it pairs beautifully with the ambiance created by round tablecloths and polyester chair covers, adding an extra touch of refinement to your reception.

2. Rustic and Bohemian Wedding

If your wedding embraces a rustic and bohemian aesthetic, consider champagne with a more artisanal and organic approach. Grower champagnes from independent winemakers, such as Pierre Gimonnet & Fils or Larmandier-Bernier, offer distinct flavors and reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards.

These champagnes pair well with the natural beauty of outdoor settings, where round tablecloths and bohemian-inspired decor create a laid-back and charming atmosphere.

3. Glamorous Black Tie Wedding

For a glamorous black-tie affair, prestige cuvée champagnes like Dom Pérignon or Krug are the epitome of luxury. These champagnes, with their refined flavors and exquisite craftsmanship, exude opulence and elegance.

As they flow from the bottle into elegant flutes, they harmonize beautifully with the lavish decor and sophisticated ambiance. Imagine the golden hues of the champagne reflecting off the polished surfaces, including round tablecloths, and illuminating the room with a touch of grandeur.

4. Romantic Garden Wedding

If you’re hosting a dreamy outdoor wedding surrounded by lush blooms and fragrant flowers, consider a rosé champagne. Rosé champagne, with its delicate pink hue and fruity notes, exudes romance and pairs beautifully with the enchanting atmosphere. Brands like Laurent-Perrier Rosé or Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé are excellent options that will elevate the charm of your garden celebration.

Selecting the perfect champagne for your wedding is an opportunity to infuse your celebration with style and luxury. Whether you opt for renowned champagne houses, artisanal grower champagnes, or prestigious cuvées, the right choice will enhance the ambiance and create lasting memories.

So, as you envision your dream wedding, consider the champagne wedding color, the elegance of round tablecloths, and the sophistication of polyester chair covers. Let the bubbles dance, the glasses clink, and the celebration begins with the perfect champagne that truly captures the spirit of your special day. Cheers to love, happiness, and a truly memorable wedding experience!

Is your wedding venue going to have a fire pit? That’s exciting! No matter what time of year it is, from a starry summer night to a chilly winter afternoon, a fire pit can be a fun addition to your outdoor seating area. Here are some tips to help you use this aspect of your venue to the fullest! Give guests a cozy place to hang out, chat, and toast marshmallows. Most importantly, stay safe. Here’s how…

Do: Know the Restrictions

Several days before your big day, check with the local fire department or town government to see if there are any fire restrictions in place. Check again on the actual day of your wedding, as this may have changed. If the area is dry and winds are high, there could be a ban in place, which means you can’t have open flames. Get the details from people who are in the know, and play by the rules.

Do: Test it Before-Hand

Test out the fire pit yourself, to make sure you know how to light it. Or, delegate this task to the person who will be in charge of it during the party. The point is to know how to use it, instead of assuming that it’s simple. It might not be! Some fire pits have “on” buttons that are located in building interiors, or the pit could have a quirk that you need to figure out before hand (press the red button twice instead of once, and it lights!).

Do: Offer Cozy Extras and Treats!

The fire pit likely has benches or chairs around it, but instead of leaving it at that, why not add a little luxury? Put cushions on the chairs, and a stack of blankets for guests to wrap up in. Even if you already have a rockin’ dessert table inside your reception venue, consider putting s’more ingredients out, as well as some marshmallow roasting sticks.

Don’t: Rely on a Fire Pit for Providing Warmth

A fire pit provides a cozy, fun ambiance, but unless guests are within a few feet of the flames they’re likely not going to feel significant warmth from it. If you have a big group gathered around, people will likely hang back a bit to make room for everyone. Don’t assume that guests will be crowded close to the fire, feeling toasty! Instead, if it’s very cold out, give guests other ways to get warm — like the blankets, mentioned above.

Don’t: Leave it Unattended

Fire should never be left unattended. Make sure someone is in charge of shutting down the fire pit at the end of the night. This could be done with a button, if you’re using a gas-fed fire. Or, if the fire is fueled by wood, someone will have to ensure that the wood is sufficiently cooled, and that the fire is completely out. Delegate this task to a responsible friend or family member — preferably someone who won’t be drinking!

If your venue has a fire pit, use it! This can add an inviting, warm, friendly vibe to your reception. Did these tips make you excited about having some flickering flames at your reception? Leave a comment below.

The Outfits

Her shawl is a great cover-up option for a cold wedding day.

The Invites

The Table Setting

So sweet of the groom to surprise his bride-to-be with a wedding day necklace!

Tips from the Event Coordinator

♥ Be flexible, guests do not know exactly what you envisioned for your wedding decor. No matter what, everyone will be focused on YOU and that you are happy, so enjoy the day!

♥♥ Take the day before and the morning of to relax and take it all in! Your wedding is about joining lives with the one you love, and you should enjoy and reflect on those last moments of excitement and anticipation.

♥♥♥ Trust your vendors. You hired them because you felt comfortable that they know what they are doing.

Wedding Pros:

Photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio | Floral Designer: Gather Design Company | Jewelry: Green Lake Jewelry Works | Event Venue: J M Cellars | Bakery: Rylie Cakes | Dress Store: The Dress Theory – Seattle | Decor/Equipment Rentals: Vintage Ambiance, Seattle Farm Tables, CORT Party Rental | Makeup Artist: Yessie Libby- Hair & Makeup artist | Designer & Coordinator: Pacific Engagements | Groom’s Outfit : Men’s Wearhouse | Tabletop  | Stationery: Noteworthy Ink Designs | Signage: Lock & Keep | Models | @smgmodels

TIME MANAGEMENT

I would have definitely hired a planner.  I also would have started planning further out in advance so I didn’t forget things I wanted in my wedding. Never wait until the last minute to start planning.  Also definitely write all of your ideas down in one spot so that you do not forget.  My biggest thing was running out of time and forgetting things that I wanted to do. – Brittany 

Most of my wedding was DIY all the way down to the ceremony site and tables for the reception.  I planned my whole wedding from start to finish and I had a day of coordinator to help make sure everything ran smoothly. My advice for the DIY bride is to ask for help when you can, don’t be afraid to let others help you! I know it’s hard to let something you have worked so hard to create go into the hands of someone else parent, friend, bridesmaid, coordinator, but you will usually wind up with too much finishing touches to do for just one person and you definitely don’t want to stress the week of your wedding… so do yourself a favor and spread the tasks around. You will feel less pressure and others will be excited to help you! – Melinda

Don’t bite off more than you can chew and think everything through. Although having the mismatched china was beautiful and everyone loved it, it was a lot of work. It was very time consuming to collect and wash the dishes and coordinate them to each table. And the washing afterwards was the worst. It was worth it, don’t get me wrong, but it took time from other projects I may have wanted to do. But at the end of the day, I married my best friend, so all the shoulda, coulda, wouldas don’t matter anymore. And that’s my other piece of advice: no matter what happens the day of, you’re marrying your best friend, so just go with it. – Alicia

I think the most important thing is to hire good vendors and let them do what they are good at! That way, you don’t have to worry about the details on your wedding day so you can relax and enjoy your own party! Specifically for mountain brides, I’d let the scenic mountains do their thing! I wouldn’t over style or over decorate. – Maddie

There’s no good time to get married. What’s important is to ask for help and to work with the people around you- a wedding planner/coordinator if you can (I wouldn’t have survived without mine), family if they’re interested, friends if you’re lucky, but most importantly, your finance. I was studying for the bar exam (which I took two weeks before we got married), but Rob just kept stepping up and handling everything. Grooms can be great wedding planners! – Camden

Having a day-of coordinator or planner–or at least an MOH who is really organized and assertive–is so important!  By the day of the wedding, I was so preoccupied with getting married and saying my vows (we wrote our own – and didn’t hear each other’s until the ceremony!) that I was not at all helpful with last-minute decisions.  I firmly believe this is how it should be — when you’re getting married, focus on the getting married part, not ensuring that every detail is executed with precision.  I tried to stay in the moment, and now I have great memories of that day and saying my vows to my husband in front of a whole bunch of people who care about us. – Emily 

MEMORIES

This is not exactly related to wedding day planning but still important. Many brides are loving getting their wedding dress preserved after the wedding. There are many great websites that offer affordable preservation. This is what bsquinn1451 from San Diego says about her experience:

I got married in June and decided to have my dress preserved in Sept . So my dress sat dirty in the dress bag for 3 months until I decided to do something with it.

I ordered my kit and I received a box in the mail that was my “kit.” It contained a bag to put my dress and accessories in, stickers to mark the extra dirty spots, like wine or food stains, packing slips, ups pre-paid label, box, and tape to mail it back. It was a nice and sturdy box. I wasn’t worried about mailing it in at a

I followed the easy, clear instructions and ran into one problem, my dress was to poofy to fit in the provided box. After calling the customer service number included in the kit, they informed me that I could use any box I wished as long as I was comfortable mailing it with my dress inside. I dropped the box off at UPS on 9/24. I received an email from them on 10/4 that they had received my dress and that the box also included my veil, the same day my Kit Serial Number showed up as received online here. I received an email on 10/24 that my dress was complete and had been shipped back to me, and received it at home on 10/27.

Upon opening the box, my dress was inside a box, in a second box, inside the outer box. So 3 protective levels. My dress looks wonderful displayed in the box, and they even found a nice way to show my veil in there too. Although I won’t open it to verify all dirt and stains are gone, the orange grease stain at the top of my dress new the center of my bust is now gone.

BUDGET

Planning a wedding is like going to the grocery store hungry – you want to buy and eat everything that you set your eyes on, but since your budget can’t afford it, you gotta be okay with settling with the important necessities. Stay away from the ‘processed foods’, the necessities will make it perfect. In layman’s terms – pick three things that you love for the wedding and hold the rest loosely. – Madeline

Be confident in your ideas.  I had several people question my decisions especially on the wedding party attire but when I saw everything come together I was so glad that I had stuck to my vision. Decide what is most important to you and spend your budget there.  For me photos and food were what I cared about.  I know absolutely nothing about flowers and had no desire to blow our budget on bouquets.  Freddy and I went to Central Market the day before our wedding and picked out flowers together for my bridesmaids and I. – Madison

Look into local vendors that you might not have thought of to see what they can do to help you cut costs and make your day great. Also, make sure that you have a budget to stick to and priorities picked out for more “splurge” spending. We wanted a wonderful day without too much out of pocket cost. We were able to get a lot of decorations by repurposing things we already had or by borrowing odds and ends from family and friends. Check into what others have and be open to other ideas. Additionally, find someone to take the lead and be in charge of making sure things run smoothly on your big day because the bride and groom should not do that or even close family members. You want your family to enjoy and celebrate too! – McKennon

Search all real weddings here.

*Click on the brides’ names to check out their wedding feature!

WEATHER

Remember that people won’t know what was “missing,” don’t stress it – especially on your big day! However it looks is perfect and so enjoy it! You can laugh at any mishaps later, I promise. In regard to mountain weddings, weather can be unpredictable – be ready for anything! Also, have a good photographer – your pictures can be breath taking! It’s worth paying for the memories. – Kallie

Plan your transitions! This was a time of stress for everyone. Delegate who is going to carry what and who is in charge of driving certain cars ext. Trying to figure all of this out in a matter of minutes to stay on schedule is stressful but avoidable if you take the time to plan it out! For mountain brides specifically: Plan for changing weather and have a rain plan set in place that you will be happy with! This is something that I ended up doing only 2 days before the wedding and I wish I would have set it up prior to the big day! – Lyric

I think the best advice was to allow the wedding to be an example of our love and not to worry too much about the details. I’m BIG on details but I think everyone most enjoyed seeing Damon and I happy and having fun. I wish I would have had a better plan for the rain though! We missed out on some of the things we had planned for our cocktail hour and I really hadn’t wanted to acknowledge the possibility of rain, even while it was raining. – Kate

Advice for mountain brides: Don’t buy very expensive shoes, they‘ll get ruined! – Ingrid

Figure out what parts are most important to you and focus more of your time and financial investment in those particular things. Breathe and realize it will be just how it’s supposed to be. Oh, and look at the 10 day weather forecast and if it’s predicting rain on your outdoor wedding, have a good cry, and let it go. That way, when the day comes, you’ll be prepared! – Joanna

YOU DO YOU!

Just chill! Seriously, chill. If you find yourselves getting all worked up, try to remind yourself (and actually listen to yourself) that this is just ONE day of your entire lives. It will be what it is, and that is more than likely going to be amazing. So just give it up to the universe and relax! Also, make sure the music you actually want is what gets played / performed. That’s another biggie. – Allie

Your wedding is about you and your soon-to-be spouse. Don’t stress out over making everyone else happy. Your wedding should be a combination of what each of you wants. NOT all of your guests. You can’t make everyone happy. Also try to have almost everything done before a week before. You’ll need that last week to breathe and relax (and catch up on last minute things you forgot). – Lindsay

Don’t over plan because things always change and you don’t want to be stressed, you want to be able to enjoy each and every moment. Also hiring a day of wedding planner or designating a good friend as the planner could be a good idea. I wish I had one as I was fielding flower and caterer questions while I was also getting ready! Oh, and if you have an outdoor wedding get a microphone so everyone can hear you! People really appreciated that. – Alexis 

I know you hear it over and over again, but the day goes by SO fast. Take a few seconds throughout the night to just pause and be in the moment. Remember how your parents’ faces look, how your flowers smell, how your cake tastes, how much love you feel. Other things? Splurge on your photographer (pictures are way more worth your money than the chocolate fountain),  carry a clutch with emergency items in it or ask your maid of honor to do so, and ask someone to set aside some wrapped up dinner and cake to take home, because it’s so hard to find time to eat. Most of all don’t sweat the small things and enjoy every second! – Hana

Our advice to future brides and grooms is to think through why you are doing each aspect of the wedding. For us, if we were doing something solely based on tradition and it wasn’t particularly meaningful, we tried to think of another way to do it that was more true to who we are (or cut it out altogether). We mixed things up a bit, and many guests told us they appreciated how personal that made the day feel. – Angela and Dave

My advice for future brides is to make sure you stay true to yourself. Weddings nowadays seem have so many high standards for the couple to live up to and with websites like Pinterest you will always feel like you could do more. We know that our wedding was very non-traditional and most people would probably find our decor a little different, but what was important is that our wedding reflected us and that is all that matters. You can only do so much, don’t go crazy trying to please everyone. Remember it is your day! – Jen

Do whatever your heart desires.  People want to get involved and though it is so sweet, it can lead your vision astray.  I wore lace up boots and love that decision! Your wedding day should revolve around you and be as stress free as possible.  It should be one that you think about and immediately smile, so the more positive you can make it (and that means following your heart) the better! – Jessica

GOING WITH THE FLOW

Unless you plan on eloping and you’re browsing the deep corners of the Internet searching through elopement packages. You know very well that you simply cannot plan for everything. As much effort as I put into the details, we had some big issues go asunder (bartender didn’t show up, people ate our pies before we got to cut our own pie, our wedding cake ended up being a cheesecake from Food Lion we bought on our honeymoon, haha!) You can’t plan for it all and you have to be prepared for when things go astray! Just roll with the punches and enjoy the day because at the end of it, if you both showed up, the details really don’t matter! – Hannah

Just enjoy it! I know people say that all the time, but it really is true. Do whatever it takes to stop stressing, keep breathing and enjoy the whole process! We had our moments of tears during the whole planning process, but we tried very hard to stay level headed and make time for ourselves in the months leading up the wedding – time both together and apart! When the day of the wedding came, we just told ourselves that it was what it was – whatever goes wrong, it’ll be fine. And it was! The ovens that we rented kept breaking and dinner was delayed, but we didn’t care – we were having too good of a time! And because we didn’t care, our guests didn’t even notice! So just enjoy the day. If something goes wrong, let someone else handle it. Just focus on yourselves and all of the love surrounding you! – Sera

Just to relax and enjoy every moment of your special day. It all seems stressful but in the end it will work out and if it doesn’t no one will even notice! All of our groomsmen, including the groom, forgot to wear their boutonnieres and we didn’t even notice until a couple days later. – Sarajane

I know that everyone says it but just try and relax and enjoy the day. Remember that this day is about you and the person that you are marrying. As long as you are together that should be the only thing that really matters. Things will happen that will throw a kink in your plans. We had the possibility of bad weather looming all day, dessert showed up later than expected, and a clasp broke on the back of my wedding dress. All of those things caused some stress but I ultimately decided that we were still going to get married and that was all that mattered and the rest would fall into place. – McKennon

Check back soon for Part II in which brides give advice on time management and budget!

REAL WEDDINGS

Artsy Industrial Wedding with Rustic + Vintage Details
Deer Themed Woodland Wedding
Destination Wedding in Iceland
Snowy Winter Wedding in Vermont
Hops Themed Wisconsin Farm Wedding
Light Blue Country Wedding with Rustic + DIY Details
Misty Purple + Green Yosemite Valley Wedding
Rustic Sequoia National Park Wedding
Charming South Carolina Wedding at Litchfield Plantation
Southern Vineyard Wedding
Rustic Yellow + Grey New Jersey Farmhouse Wedding
DIY Barefoot Summer Wedding

STYLED SHOOTS

Natural + Elegant Nautical Shoot in Santa Barbara
Woodsy Glamour Bridal Shoot
River Bridal Inspiration in Bend, Oregon
Peach & Teal Vintage Book Themed Wedding Inspiration
Blue & Yellow Country Chic Bridal Inspiration
Wildflower Bridal Inspiration at Stray Cat Flower Farm
Bohemian Nepali Wedding Inspiration
Rustic Blush + Peach Blossom Styled Shoot
Bright Botanical Greenhouse Editorial Shoot
Free Spirited Bohemian Styled Wedding
Lilac + Lace Country Chic Wedding Inspiration
European Style Farm-to-Table Inspired Shoot

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