Congrats!

You're engaged! Now what?

First, you need to pick a date and set a budget!

A lot of us are not sure where to start when setting a budget, which is valid because a lot of us haven't been married before. It's good to see what you can offer to the wedding and what you partner can offer to the wedding, then ask family what they are willing to help with. Thankfully, most reputable wedding professionals will have their pricing readily available or even directly on their webpages. 

(Here is ours: Trickey Durham Photography Wedding Photography Pricing )

Next, since you have a date and your budget, it's time to book your vendors. 

Vendors will be excited and happy to hear from you, but please be patience if it times take to get back to you. Most professional vendors will respond within 24-48 hours depending on the day. A lot of us work all weekend (weddings) so please note it's best to reach out during the week. 

12+ months prior

FIRST, A Wedding Planner

Top on the list a wedding planner/coordinator. This is not to say that you can't have a beautiful wedding without one, but boy, oh boy, do they make things a lot easier for you and your family. A wedding planner is like having a fast-pass at Universal; you will get through the line much faster. Wedding planners help you find vendors that match what you are looking for, start on budget, and problem solve. 

SECOND, A Wedding Venue

The wedding venue is definitely next on the list, and depending on the venue, you may need to shuffle your date if you're dead set on a certain place. Most venues are booking 1-2 years out, so it is very important to find one as soon as possible. Once you've found one it will make setting the foundation for your theme and decor so much easier! 

(Here is our wedding venue: Raylene Reserve Wedding Venue )

10-12 months prior

THIRD, Wedding Photographer / Videographer 

I think the wedding photography and videography is crucial (but I'm completely and totally biased). I have been photographing for over 14 years and my husband has been working with me for 5 years now. We have offered wedding videography for the last 3 years as an add-on.  Photography is about how you want to see the day so finding a photographer is very personal and you should make sure that the photographers you go with match your style and your vision; so that you all mesh together. I can tell you from experience that photographing someones wedding is very intimate and we spend a great time of time with our clients on the day of. 

(Here is some of our work: Trickey Durham Photography Wedding Photos )

Our Wedding Photography and Videography Pricing:
Lovely Wedding -$1750 - 5 hours - 1 Photographer - add highlight video $1000
Dazzling Wedding - $2450 - 7 hours - 2 Photographers - add highlight video $1400
Sparkling Wedding - $3150 - 9 hours - 2 Photographers - add highlight video $1800
Luxury Wedding - $3500 - 9 hours - 2 Photographers - includes 1 hour engagement session - includes 20 page photo album - add highlight video $1800

FOURTH, Wedding Florist

A florist can make or break a wedding day. They are truly magicians. They can completely transform a wedding. It's absolutely amazing what goes into building an arrangement and bouquets. Florist are not vendors you want to wait and book; book soon, and fast! **Also, tell them about your vision and hear what they have to say. Some of the best wedding I've been do, the florist had complete artistic control after the clients gave the a theme. 

FIFTH, Wedding Caterer

Yes, your family and friends are there to see you, but let's be real, they are also there for the food. Our area offers a wide and wonderful selection of caterers, but they also book up fast. Oh, make sure to let them know of any dietary restrictions and concerns up front. It makes the process later a lot easier. 

SIXTH, Wedding Music 

I'm sure all of us can name a song that moves us; makes us feel; lifts our hearts. Music is so special. Make sure to talk with your partner about what you want to hear on your wedding day; songs to make you happy, songs to honor someone, songs to get the party going!  

SEVENTH, Your Wedding Attire & Hair-Make Up 

Have fun! Get what you want to wear, not what your mom expects you to wear. One of the best tips I got when I went to try on dresses was to try on something that I didn't pick out, or didn't envision myself wearing. I am really glad I did, because that was the dress I went with. When considering your make-up, light and natural is wonderful, however, I would consider going a little more dramatic, it really helps define your face shape in photos; kind of like the theatre or ballet.

Your wedding is very important and will take time to plan, and might be stressful at times, so please don't forget to breathe and have fun. Our bodies natural forget stressful moments, your wedding should be one of those things.