Hey, congrats on your engagement! This exciting milestone marks the beginning of a quite a journey to your wedding day. With so many decisions to make, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help you navigate this process, I've outlined the top five essential hires to make soon after you get engaged. From finding the perfect venue to booking a talented photographer, these steps will ensure your special day is everything you've dreamed of and more.
Finding the Perfect Venue
The venue is one of the most significant decisions you'll make when planning your wedding. It sets the tone for your entire event and influences many other aspects of your day. Start by envisioning the type of wedding you want—whether it's a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, and what your style is as a couple - are you rustic and outdoorsy? Do you need an exquisite ballroom with high ceilings? The venue should also accommodate your guest list! Consider factors such as location (in town vs out of town), capacity (including parking!), and amenities (like space for caterers or a full getting-ready suite), when making your choice. Booking your venue early is crucial, as popular locations can fill up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons.
Securing a Top-Notch Caterer
Once you've chosen your venue, it's time to think about the dining experience you'll offer your guests! A skilled caterer will not only provide delicious food, but also enhance the overall atmosphere of your wedding. When selecting a caterer, consider their menu options, flexibility, and ability to accommodate dietary restrictions. Schedule tastings to ensure their offerings align with your vision. Remember, food is often one of the most memorable aspects of a wedding, so investing in a quality caterer is essential. Your guests definitely notice when you've cut back on food, food service or quantity in this area - and sadly, the first people they blame is your catering team! Don't put the business you hired in this position by being stingy - make sure you have enough food, that the catering team is there on time and serve on time, and that you've preplanned *everything*with them.
Booking a Talented Photographer
Your wedding day will be filled with beautiful moments that you'll want to cherish forever. Hiring a talented photographer is key to capturing these memories. When choosing a photographer, review their portfolio to ensure their style matches your aesthetic. Meet with potential photographers to discuss your vision and confirm their ability to capture the essence of your day. A great photographer will not only document the big moments but also the candid, emotional ones that make your wedding unique.
Hiring a Wedding Planner
A wedding planner can be an invaluable asset in organizing your big day. From managing vendors to coordinating timelines to helping with decor, a planner ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing you to enjoy the celebration stress-free. When hiring a planner, look for someone with experience, excellent communication skills, and a personality that meshes well with yours. A good planner will understand your vision and work tirelessly to bring it to life, handling any challenges that may arise along the way.
Choosing Between a DJ, Videographer, or Bartending Service
Depending on your priorities, the next hire could be a DJ, videographer, or bartending service. If music is a focal point for your celebration, a DJ will keep the energy high and guests dancing all night. Alternatively, if capturing every moment is your priority, a videographer will create a beautiful film of your day. For those focused on the guest experience, a professional bartending service can elevate the celebration with creative cocktails and exceptional service. Consider your budget and what elements matter most to you when making this decision.
Planning your wedding is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be daunting. Don't forget - if you hire a wedding planner FIRST, they can help you with all of these other decisions and hires! By hiring them first, you may also get higher-quality vendors because of the relationships they have with other businesses. Remember to prioritize what matters most to you as a couple. With the right team in place, your wedding day will be an unforgettable celebration of love.