Before the Ring

What should I know?  It is so important to start the wedding planning process off right, this should be a fun and joyful time. 

1. Start with creating your budget.  It is so important to make sure your expectations march your wallet.  

2. Venue search.  In today's world there are so many platforms for venue searches. Use them but when you tour ask questions:

  * Many venues have additional fees, find out what they are

  * Make sure the Venue can COMFORTABLY Seat the number of guests you are looking to invite; no one wants to be crammed.

  *  Make sure the venue staff is knowledgeable and able to carry out your vision.  A wedding is not something you get to repeat so make sure you are in good hands

  * Make sure you have a rain plan

  * Make sure there is a plan for guest with mobility issues, we want all to be comfortable

3.  Don't be afraid to ask for the pricing in writing so you know exactly how much things are

4. Ask about Catering, if the venue is within financial reach but the caterer is required and cost $ 120. per person this may not be a fit. GET ALL THESE DETAILS

5. Make a list of NON-NEGIOTABLES.  These are things that are very important to you.  As you are touring venues, see which venues check the most boxes, this maybe your venue

6. Look at the wards that the venue has won, these speak volumes

7.  If your budget is being spread thin, ask for tips from the venue on how to be more cost effective without losing the image you want to have. There are many ways to save money that are never even noticed by guest.