Wedding planning can be stressful... but it doesn't have to be! Check out our latest blog posts for the latest trends, helpful planning tips, and so much more!
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Planning a wedding is exciting – but with that excitement comes a bit of chaos. One minute you are pinning the tablescapes of your dreams, the next you’re deep into spreadsheets and wondering how your expenses have added up so fast! If you are feeling overwhelmed, you’re not doing it wrong. Trust us, you are just planning a wedding!
Here are some helpful tips to keep you on track, organized, and confident, so you can actually enjoy the planning process!
1. Start with your priorities (not pinterest)
Yes – I know, it will be hard to not to spend hours on Pinterest looking for wedding inspo. It’s important to sit down with your future forever and decide what matters most to you, before you book a single vendor.
Ask yourselves:
- is the food most important?
- should we splurge more on a photographer because the photos is what we are looking forward to most?
- is it the decor/overall vibes & experiences for our guests?
Once you determine what your priorities are, decisions will get easier, and your budget will thank you!
2. Set a Realistic Budget Early
This task is not quote-on-quote, “fun”, but it is essential. Create a budget before you start booking vendors so you know where you can spend a little extra, and where you’ll want to save.
Don’t forget to include:
- taxes & service fees
- gratuities
- alterations
- decor rentals
- last-minute extras
Having a clear budget means fewer surprises later!
3. Book the Key Vendors First
Some vendors will book up fast – especially during the peak wedding season.
Prioritize securing these vendors first:
- venue
- photographer
- planner or coordinator
- caterer
- DJ or band
Once these are all locked in, then put your focus to the creative vendors (ie. florals, decor, signage, etc.)
4. Give yourself more time than you think
Wedding planning always takes a little longer than you would expect. Dresses need altering, invitations take time to deliver, and vendors tend to book months in advance.
If possible:
- start planning 12-18 months out
- send save-the-dates early
- build buffer time into your timeline
Believe us, future you will be very grateful for the extra time!
5. Don’t be afraid to Hire a Wedding Planner
Hiring a wedding planner isn’t just for luxury weddings. Wedding planners are for couples who want to stress less, who want to enjoy their engagement, and who might have a busy schedule as it is and need a little extra help!
We will:
- manage timelines and logistics
- communicate with vendors
- help you stay on a budget
- handle problems before you even know they exist
Whether it be our Full-Service Package, or our Wedding Day Management Package, we can help you bring your wedding day visions to life! Learn more about our services here 🤍
Much Love,
Rachel with All of the Above Weddings + Events
Vendor Team:
Planning + Coordination: @alloftheabovemn
Photography: @aurorapinesphoto
Reception Venue: @northernpacificcenter
Hair + Makeup: @captivatingbeautyhairandmakeup
Planning a wedding is exciting – but with that excitement comes a bit of chaos. One minute you are pinning the tablescapes of your dreams, the next you’re deep into spreadsheets and wondering how your expenses have added up so fast! If you are feeling overwhelmed, you’re not doing it wrong. Trust us, you are just planning a wedding!
Here are some helpful tips to keep you on track, organized, and confident, so you can actually enjoy the planning process!
1. Start with your priorities (not pinterest)
Yes – I know, it will be hard to not to spend hours on Pinterest looking for wedding inspo. It’s important to sit down with your future forever and decide what matters most to you, before you book a single vendor.
Ask yourselves:
- is the food most important?
- should we splurge more on a photographer because the photos is what we are looking forward to most?
- is it the decor/overall vibes & experiences for our guests?
Once you determine what your priorities are, decisions will get easier, and your budget will thank you!
2. Set a Realistic Budget Early
This task is not quote-on-quote, “fun”, but it is essential. Create a budget before you start booking vendors so you know where you can spend a little extra, and where you’ll want to save.
Don’t forget to include:
- taxes & service fees
- gratuities
- alterations
- decor rentals
- last-minute extras
Having a clear budget means fewer surprises later!
3. Book the Key Vendors First
Some vendors will book up fast – especially during the peak wedding season.
Prioritize securing these vendors first:
- venue
- photographer
- planner or coordinator
- caterer
- DJ or band
Once these are all locked in, then put your focus to the creative vendors (ie. florals, decor, signage, etc.)
4. Give yourself more time than you think
Wedding planning always takes a little longer than you would expect. Dresses need altering, invitations take time to deliver, and vendors tend to book months in advance.
If possible:
- start planning 12-18 months out
- send save-the-dates early
- build buffer time into your timeline
Believe us, future you will be very grateful for the extra time!
5. Don’t be afraid to Hire a Wedding Planner
Hiring a wedding planner isn’t just for luxury weddings. Wedding planners are for couples who want to stress less, who want to enjoy their engagement, and who might have a busy schedule as it is and need a little extra help!
We will:
- manage timelines and logistics
- communicate with vendors
- help you stay on a budget
- handle problems before you even know they exist
Whether it be our Full-Service Package, or our Wedding Day Management Package, we can help you bring your wedding day visions to life! Learn more about our services here 🤍
Much Love,
Rachel with All of the Above Weddings + Events
Vendor Team:
Planning + Coordination: @alloftheabovemn
Photography: @aurorapinesphoto
Reception Venue: @northernpacificcenter
Hair + Makeup: @captivatingbeautyhairandmakeup
