Helpful Hints for Planning
Your Raleigh NC Wedding

Need help? When it's time for you to begin planning a wedding or special event, having an idea where to begin will make all the difference.

Here are some pointers to get you started:

1. Meet the Family - when planning a wedding, make arrangements to meet your fiancé/fiancée's family. Plan a small gathering (brunch, barbeque) to allow both families to get acquainted well before the wedding. This will reduce any uncomfortable or anxious feelings that arise when strangers are placed in the same room. Creating a comfort level will put everyone at ease.
 
2. Determine a Budget - it's important to decide who pays for or contributes toward the cost of your occasion. Whether you desire an intimate event with close family and friends or a full-scale gala, establishing and working within a monetary guide will ensure the type of event you desire. Remember, your lives return to "normal" after the occasion and it's important to have money left to keep the lights on when all is said and done!
 
3. Have a Plan - no matter the size of the event, a layout or strategy must be developed. How can you expect to get from one place to another without one? While the plan will change and evolve over time, creating a foundation from which to work will give you guidance and direction. It's even OK to stray from the plan, but having one in place will give you a path to travel.
 
4. Begin Gathering Ideas - start collecting pictures from magazines of images (cakes, flowers, decorations, etc) you like and don't like. These pictures will be helpful to the vendors you choose to use as guides in carrying out what you want. A picture is worth a thousand words - make sure your pictures make a statement!
 
5. Hire an Event Planner - if your work and/or school schedules are such that you simply don't have enough hours in the day to plan an occasion, hiring a Planner is the effective route to go. A Planner can take on as much or as little help as you need, leaving you time to live your life while your event is being designed, planned and overseen by a professional.