Planning Advice

Wedding Planning: How to Stay Organized

January 26, 2018
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of Kylie Crump Photography

Ok, let’s be real… Planning a wedding can be stressful and feel scattered at times. With all the little details, it is fair to say that the fun part of planning can get lost. To keep the experience enjoyable, and keep you sane, here are some tips to stay organized while wedding planning.

Create an email address strictly for wedding details

Personal emails can easily become cluttered with business, promotional, and junk mail. When you add wedding related emails to that, you can end up with quite a mess on your hands. Making an email specifically for all wedding details prevents an overcrowded inbox and eliminates the chance of important wedding emails being lost. Give the password to your future husband or any family members helping you plan.

Another benefit of having this separate email, is you can choose when to check it. If you’re like most people these days, you probably have your phone set to notify you whenever you receive an email. There’s no need to stress yourself out – turn off notifications on your wedding email account, and deal with them when you’re in the best headspace to think about your big day!

Photo courtesy of Simple Moments Photography

Keep everything in one place

Nothing is more confusing or stressful as trying to track down where you wrote, saved, or typed something. To avoid this, decide if you are a hard copy kind of person, or someone who prefers to have everything stored online.

I have seen quite a few brides buy those pretty planning notebooks to keep vendor contracts, write details, and keep to-do’s. For the people out there who need to write things down to remember them, this is a great option for you! Here is a planner from Etsy that is functional and cute.

On the other side, we live in a world full of technology! These days most contracts and payments are done online, so having something like Google Drive to keep those files in makes sense. Keep it extra organized by having specific folders for each vendor. You can also keep your to-do’s and notes in there. Online and app solutions can also be accessed by multiple users simultaneously, so if you’re planning from out of state, this can be very handy for sharing all information.

Whether paper or technology appeals to you , commit to one format and stick to it. That way you won’t lose any details by switching midstream.

Photo courtesy of Lauren Peele Photography

Write it down

Now that you have this folder or online system, utilize it! Write or type any important points discussed in meetings to refer back to later instead of trying to remember what was said. Also, add appointments or to-do as they are scheduled or thought of. You never know when you will need to recall a detail!

Dedicate specific time

“I’ll do it tomorrow” can easily turn into a month out from the wedding. Setting time aside strictly for planning ensures not everything will be done last minute. Whether it’s an hour after work, at lunch every other day, or every morning of your day off, schedule it into your calendar so that you know you can get it done.

Scheduling time helps you manage all the details. You don’t want to randomly return calls at the market, where you’ll more than likely forget any plans that were discussed. Use this dedicated time to log into your wedding email, answer the emails, and then immediately store that information in your folder or drive. Update your to do list and check out what’s on the horizon, so that you’re ready for the next step!

We can all agree that planning a wedding can easily become stressful. Let’s keep the fun in planning and get organized! Or, if this just doesn’t appeal to you in the slightest, let us help you out! Our packages are all structured so that we build in the organization for you, allowing you to have the headspace to simply focus on decision-making and all of the pretty!

Planning for the Awkward Questions

January 19, 2018
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of Miranda Marrs Photography

When it comes down to actually planning your wedding, there is a lot to consider. The best way to avoid feeling overwhelmed is to get ahead of the planning process. One of the tasks you will have right away is figuring out who is wanting to contribute to your wedding (financially or with guidance). That means there may be some awkward, but necessary, conversations are in your future with your family. Whether it’s about budget or family traditions, it’s better to have these conversations at the beginning of the planning process. Knowing what to say and what information you need can go a long way towards making these conversations less awkward. So here are some things to consider and questions that you can ask word-for-word to make the whole planning process smoother.

Photo courtesy of Coburn Photography

The first step is to sit down with each person you think might contribute – financially, emotionally, or both – so that you can make sure that you are all on the same page. A great question to start with is “How involved do you want to be in the decision-making process?” This allows you to open the discussion with a neutral topic that is not directly about the budget, but may provide a good segue. Perhaps they want to be very involved in decision-making because they plan on contributing a significant amount. Maybe they want to show support for you and your fiancé by helping with the planning and design. Whatever the case may be, you can now have an open and honest conversation about what that involvement will look like. You can then easily transition to the financial aspect or what compromises can be made.

Photo courtesy of Lindsay Davenport Photography

In terms of finances, a simple “Do you want to contribute to our wedding?” is a great way to start the conversation without assumptions. If the answer is yes, then you can dive into the specifics. In addition to how much they are willing to contribute, you will also want to find out more about how they expect the money to be managed. Would they be comfortable with you managing how that money is spent, or would they like it spent in a particular way? Alternatively, we have seen couples assign a specific vendor to a family member who like to contribute to the wedding. For instance, if you know that the bar service is going to be very important to your side of the family, your parents might agree to pay for that part.

Photo courtesy of Dot & Anchor Photography

While you are discussing expectations in regards to money, you might also want to find out about any family or religious traditions they want include. Do they want you to get married in a specific spot – church, family home, etc.? Who do they think should be there and involved? Are there any particular traditions they want to see incorporated in the ceremony or reception – a tea ceremony, unity candle, the dollar or hora dance? Is there a cake topper that has been handed down for generations that they want you to use? What traditions have you seen at other family events? This is your opportunity to find out and learn a little family history while you’re at it.

Photo courtesy of Jessica Shae Photography

You want to understand what key family member’s roles and expectations are so you can make plans with that knowledge in mind. It doesn’t mean that you have to incorporate every aspect of what the contributors expect, but it does mean that you can make an informed decision about what you want and are happy to include. This may lead to another awkward conversation in which you tell the contributor that you have made a different decision that is more in line with what you want as a couple. But that is ok, and if it will help save you the drama or hurt feelings on the day of the wedding then it is well worth it. Ultimately it is you and your fiancé’s wedding day!

If you need further help navigating these tough questions contact us! If you want more, you can read about things to consider before you start planning you wedding.

Bridal Shows: The Beginner’s Guide

January 16, 2018
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of MaggShots Photography

Thinking about heading to a few bridal shows? It does seem kind of like a rite of passage for most engaged couples. Shows can be a wonderful place for you to get an idea of what is out there in vendor-land and started zeroing in on what your priorities actually are. Or, alternatively, shows are a great place for free champagne and cake samples, and I fully endorse all the tasting. 🙂

If you’re going to a show, here are some quick tips and tricks to keep you moving and get the most out of the day.

Wear comfortable shoes and hydrate.

Sorry, my former camp counselor self can’t help but start with the essentials. Some of the bridal shows are an all day thing, held in massive convention centers with not much in the way of seating. Expect to be on your feet and plan accordingly!

Photo courtesy of Krystle Akin Photography

Bring the labels.

Everyone you talk to is going to want to know how they get in touch with you after the show! Save your writing hand by bringing printed labels that have both of your names, wedding date, and contact email and phone number. Some of the bigger shows will offer these as a complimentary add-on to your ticket, or you can print them at home yourself. You might also bring some star stickers (or whatever you have on hand – mine tend to be Pixar!) so that you can mark the materials of the vendors you want to follow up with later as you stuff their info in your bag.

Be thoughtful about booking vendors on site.

Some vendors will offer truly extraordinary price breaks if you book while at the show. This can be awesome for your budget. I suggest taking a quiet minute in a corner with your cell phone to check some details online before booking. Do a quick skim of reviews, check some other similar vendors to see what, exactly, the pricing break is, and check the vendor’s own website for info on their services. Sometimes a killer deal isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. It’s worth paying a little more to get significantly better service from a different vendor! You can also ask vendors if they’ll honor the deal if you book by the following day or end of the week. That way you can take all of your info home and check in with your other decision makers, if they’re not at the show with you.

Photo courtesy of Melissa Flanagan Photography

Consider options that might not be on your list.

There are always some really fun and different options to see at bridal shows – a recent favorite of mine was flavored cotton candy. How fun is that? Come into a show with an open mind. Maybe you’ll find something that will perfectly showcase your personality or be incredibly helpful during your planning process that you didn’t expect to include!

Check your calendar.

Most vendors would be THRILLED to set up an appointment with you for the week or two following the show so that you can talk more in person about your big day! That gives you the headspace to see if you truly click with the vendor in question and to be able to ask all of your questions before committing.

Photo courtesy of Katie Cassidy Photography

Alrighty, now that you’ve got your primer, where are these magical shows? January is always a big month for wedding shows, and this year is no exception! There are basically two types of shows out there – large multivendor shows and smaller venue-specific shows, usually called open houses. Multivendor shows are open to any vendor wanting to purchase space. Open houses usually showcase the vendors on the venue’s preferred list, and so are a bit more selective.

Here are some good bets for this month (including where we’ll be!)

– January 20: McKinney Bridal Show, held annually and always full of fun vendors (like us! Come say hi!). Read about it at https://www.mckinneytexas.org/1781/Bridal-Show.

– January 27-28: Dallas Bridal Show, the biggest of them all in a two-day extravaganza! See info at http://bridalshowsinc.com.

In general, a good place to find an up to date list of bridal shows and open houses is on the Brides of North Texas website. https://www.bridesofnorthtexas.com/wedding-events/

All of this just too overwhelming for you? No interest in using shows to get more info? Reach out to us, and we can help you navigate the wedding madness without the chaos. You can also check out some of blogs to help get you get you started – Venue, Budget & Guest List. Happy hunting!

Things to Consider Before You Start Planning Your Wedding

December 21, 2017
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of Braden Harris Photography

So… You got engaged, you told everyone you know, and now it’s time to start planning! I know what you’re thinking, where do we start!? Don’t panic, you just need to think about the kind of wedding you want. The biggest thing to ask yourselves is, “What makes the most sense for us?”

Location:

When I say location, I don’t just mean venue. I mean where in the world do y’all want to say your vows? Consider where you are from, is there a specific place one of you has always wanted to get married, can your family and friends you want at your wedding get to this place?

Photo by Kylie Crump Photography

When my husband and I were talking wedding, we had to decide between his hometown and mine. We considered the fact that we both now live in Dallas, so it made it easier that we can plan in state. While the convenience is nice, my husband’s HUGE family, here in Dallas, sealed the deal on us having ours here. It would be so much easier to get my 10-15 family members here and lodged then to get his 50-75 family members there!

When deciding who you want present on your wedding day, it’s important to think about how they will get there. Can your grandma, who you can’t imagine not being there, fly on a plane? If you want to walk down the aisle with grandma Jo, then maybe consider doing it closer to her.

Photo by Dot & Anchor Photography

Guest Count:

Consider if you prefer being in your small group of friends or if you like the big crowd scene? Are you an introvert or extrovert? If you love the thought of having all your family and friends in one place, then go with the big wedding! Some people cringe at the thought of 150 people staring at you all night. Are you that person? Then do a smaller wedding. Remember, you don’t have to invite every person you ever came in contact with!

Photo by Lauren Peele Photography

Dancing, Food, Alcohol, and The Whole Shebang:

When people think of weddings a lot of times they think ceremony, then seated dinner, followed by dancing with occasional visits to the open bar. This is definatly not the only option.

Let’s go back to what makes sense to y’all. If you a morning person, you can always do a morning ceremony followed with a brunch. If you like the idea of an evening wedding, but not the crazy party, skip the dancing and open bar, and just do the dinner. There are many ways to celebrate and make your wedding perfect for you and your fiancé.

All in all, try to stay true to who you are as a couple and what makes sense for you. After all it is your day! If you need help figuring out the details to get you wedding plans moving contact us!

Creating a Unique Wedding Ceremony

October 10, 2017
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of Feather & Twine Photography

We reached out to some of our favorite wedding ceremony officiants to answer a pretty big question:

“What are some elements you can suggest to make a ceremony unique to the couple?”

Photo courtesy of Allen Tsai Photography

Arianna Gray, from Alternative Wedding Services, had some great options for making your ceremony unique:

“While there are many elements out there that can be included, knowing the couple’s personalities, backgrounds, beliefs and so forth are helpful in finding just the right elements for them to include. There are the “joining” elements, such as a handfasting, unity candle, sand ceremony and so forth. These all represent the act of bringing two lives (or more in the case of the sand ceremony) together into a marriage or family and can be a lovely inclusion into any wedding ceremony.

There are the “threshold” elements like jumping the broom or breaking the glass. These represent a breaking with the past or leaving the past (single lives) behind and jumping or crossing into the future together. It shows a couple’s commitment to face the unknown together.

And there are ways to honor the ancestors, whether it is a remembrance of those who have passed, a general honoring of those who came before or honoring the couple’s parents. These are very moving and meaningful and really lend a “family is important” vibe to the ceremony.”

For other tradition recommendations be sure to check out her website!

Photo courtesy of Dot & Anchor Photography

David Gruber, an interfaith wedding Rabbi, tells us about how he officiated a wedding that not only had various traditions from several cultures but also was featured on MTV’s hispanic channel as a part of a series:

“The ceremony included elements from both faith traditions, with vows, a New Testament reading, and a Unity Candle from the Christian tradition, and the Ketubah, the Seven Blessings and the breaking of the glass from the Jewish tradition. My favorite parts of any wedding ceremony, and this was no exception, are the traditions that both faiths share: the ring exchange, the shared cup and the Priestly Blessing. For the latter I wrapped the couple in my tallit, which always makes for a “warm and fuzzy” moment, and I blessed them in three languages, Hebrew, English and Spanish. I then pronounced them esposo y esposa. As I usually do, I included short explanations of all the various customs and rituals for the benefit of those at the wedding, and those who would watch it on TV.”

Read more about this unique ceremony on David’s blog. Your ceremony should be customized to what you and your fiancé prefer no matter how unconventional the combination of elements are!

Photo courtesy of Krystle Akin Photography

Chris Marx, from Love Notes, tells us how he incorporated two cultures to create a ceremony both the couple and family was happy with:

“I met with a couple where the bride, while growing up in America, was of a Persian heritage. Her parents migrated to the States before she was born. She wanted to have a wedding that incorporated many of the American traditions but also wanted to bring into her wedding a lot of her Parent’s Persian traditions.

I spent a lot of time discussing with the bride, groom, the brides parents and my own research on Persian weddings. After gathering a host of information I wrote a wedding ceremony that met the request of the bride and groom. The ceremony was reviewed by her parents and some adjustments were made. However, when all was said and done, it was a wedding that no one will forget.”

Mixing traditions, customs, and ceremony designs is a great way to make your union unique to you and your fiancé and highlighting the beauty in cultures. Learn more about Chris here.

There are as many traditions and variations of ceremonies as there are individuals. You should focus on creating the perfect ceremony that fits you and your partner. These are just a few officiants that work with couples everyday to make their union exceptional. We would love to hear about your unique ceremony!

The Fate of Your Wedding Flowers

September 7, 2017
Planning Advice

Photo courtesy of Lynn Michelle Photography

Many of our clients ask us “what do you do with the flowers after the wedding?” and we thought we’d share with you your options and tell you about a new service we’re offering here at Each & Every Detail.

First of all, after each event, your floral is yours! You and anyone you choose can take home the floral that decorated your special day. However, most of the time, the vases and containers are rentals and must return with the florist that evening. Some florists will create the arrangements in a disposable dish or tray that can be pulled out of their containers and sent with you. You can also provide your own buckets that the florist can possibly put the floral in after removing it from their containers for you to take home after the event. Just check with your florist to see if this is an option they can provide, depending on the style of your floral decor.

Photo courtesy of Two Pair Photography

Without containers, if you choose to share the floral, many guests and family members will often just pull the floral from the florist’s containers and when they arrive home, trim the stems and place them in water to create an arrangement they can enjoy in a vase they already have. (In many cases, the flowers will last another 4-5 days if they are treated well.) Another option that a few florists offer is a “wrap station”, where florists will pull from the arrangements and wrap these small bouquets for guests to take home. This is not an option offered by many, but you can certainly check to see if it’s something they’ll try!

After friends and family take their pick, florists typically offer the remaining flowers to staff that is onsite at the event, such as catering staff, planners, entertainment company, etc. These hard-working folks can take these home to enjoy or share with friends and family as well.

Photo courtesy of Miranda Marrs Photography

After all of that, if there is still floral leftover, sometimes the florists will take the floral back to their shop and repurpose it for donation to a local nursing home or hospital. We love this option and fully support florists who already do this as a matter of course. We try our best to keep track of florists who do this and are happy to recommend them to you should this be a service you want to take advantage of. However, this is where our new service comes in. If this is important to you, and your florist of choice does not offer this service, we are happy to say we’ve partnered with a local nursing home to do so ourselves!

Photo courtesy of Katie Cassidy Photography

Each & Every Detail has partnered with Harbor Chase Retirement Home to provide their residents remaining floral from our clients’ events to use not only for enjoyment, but in a way that is also purposeful! Residents are shown how to arrange the flowers themselves, which can be considered part of their physical therapy. We love this idea and can’t wait to start making it happen! To do this, we would like to work closely with our clients, evaluating what they want done with their floral, how much floral will be at the wedding and if it will be usable in this way (for example if stems will be too short to use in a freely shaped arrangement). In doing so, we can develop a plan to get this floral to Harbor Chase in a timely fashion so the flowers can be reused.

Items we take into consideration:

Would you prefer all floral go to this course or just the remaining after family/friends/staff take home what they want?
Will there be enough floral to fill more than a bucket or two with flowers to be reused?
Do we need another vehicle for transportation based on the amount of floral and items already stored in our staffs’ vehicles?
Does your venue allow us enough time to prepare these buckets or do we need extra staff to make this happen?

After evaluating these points with your lead planner, we can give you a quote on cost to make this happen. The typical rate for this service will start at $200, but will vary based your order and wedding location.

If you are interested in this new service Each & Every Detail offer, please contact your lead planner! (Please know that while we think this is a great service and wish we could make it available to anyone, at this time we can only offer this to clients of Each & Every Detail.)