For those of you who aren’t booking a wedding designer or planner, this can be tricky to maneuver. Everyone wants to make a lasting impression on their guests and walk away from a memorable day with their new spouse, but it’s not as simple as you’d think. Here are our best tips:

Decide early on what you want your guests to be saying about your wedding. When they’re on their way home that night or sipping coffee the next morning, what do you want those conversations to include? What words or phrases do you hope they use to describe the event? Also consider what you want to feel in ten years when you look back at your wedding photos. Narrow this down to 3-5 words or phrases to use with vendors as you plan your event. 

Next, be vigilant about your words. Review them each time you sit down to plan. Dedicate yourself to always having those words at the front of your mind. Make sure all of your vendors know the words too. As you get proposals from different vendors, don’t be afraid to ask for revisions – invites, florals, lighting, draping, etc. Each one of these elements are contributing to your wedding day vibe. Don’t settle on something. If you mentally skimp somewhere, you’re missing out on an opportunity to drive home the aesthetic and really wow your guests! You’re paying these vendors, make sure you get what you had envisioned.

Last thing we always recommend? NEVER skip your showroom meeting! When you arrive, your rep will likely already have your linen, china, flatware, and stemware set out for you. You’ll get an opportunity to see all the pieces together. This gives you the ability to tweak something that doesn’t quite capture your vibe. There aren’t many components of planning that you can see together before the big day (see A is for attire!). To really make the most of this meeting, take other elements of your big day. Grab a swatch from the bridesmaid gowns, your invitation suite, any of your accessories you have, and consider asking your florist for the ribbon she’s using on your bouquet . Seeing as many of the elements together will be incredibly gratifying.