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you have a style. you know how you want to spend your money. now it’s time to actually get down to business. here’s a few tips about when and how to book some great vendors.

• want a complete planning package? find your planner first and you hardly have to read the rest of this post. know that planners offer all sorts of services–if you decide that you could use some help later on or even just for the day-of, it’s never too late.
• first up is your venue. visit a bunch and pick something in line with your style so it’s easier (and maybe even cheaper!) to down the line. you’ll probably finalize your date as you book your venue based on their availability.
• find a photographer. forget the buzzwords of the industry–photojournalism, fashion, vintage–and focus on choosing somebody who takes images that speak to you. it’s important to vibe personally with your photographer, since you’ll have more fun and smile prettier if you enjoy hanging out with them during your engagement session.
• buy your dream dress, and at least know some bridesmaid dress basics–color and length.
• once your guest list starts to take a more solid shape, check out invitations. make sure to do save-the-dates if lots of your guests are traveling or you’re planning a destination wedding.
• find an officiant. it’s remarkable how easy it is to forget this part. i mean, what’s the point without an officiant? don’t forget to look into the paperwork for your license–this isn’t something that an officiant can provide for you!
• book your caterer and major rentals like tables and chairs. you may have this part already taken care of if your venue does in-house catering.
• finally we get to the really fun part–flowers! get in touch with me and let’s gush about garden roses and wild jasmine tendrils. i’ll ask about your venue, dress, and what style of tables you have. by this point, you should have a pretty good idea of what your decor needs are so it’ll make the whole process smoother.
• choose a cake. let me know who your baker is so we can get in touch if you want to use fresh flowers to decorate.
• book a DJ, band, quartet, or whatever entertainment and music you need for the night.
• take care of your favors and gifts. favors often get decorated on the DIY–make sure you give yourself plenty of time for tying 150 tedious little baker’s twine bows.
• make your honeymoon arrangements. or make your honey make your honeymoon arrangements. you’re busy tying bows and stamping placecards.