When it comes to wedding planning - whether a small, intentional elopement, an intimate gathering, or a bigger event - there are a multitude of factors to be considered. Everything can begin to feel entirely overwhelming, and a majority of couples come to me feeling stressed, confused, and bogged down when trying to tackle the planning process on their own. If you’re struggling, I’m here to provide some insight for you. Let’s dive in together - it is possible to create a low-stress, unique, special, and intentional event on a budget - here are the conversations you should have and the questions you should pose to your clients!
Location, Location, Location
Think outside the box. Would you believe me if I told you that I planned a styled elopement shoot inside Target and it got featured here on Aisle Planner? I’m sharing this because I want to encourage couples to push boundaries. If you're planning an elopement, you can seek out locations (with proper permission, permits, and licenses needed, of course) that are meaningful to you and your relationship. Where do you spend a lot of time together as a couple? What are some of your favorite activities to do together? Make a list of places that bring you joy and determine if any may be a good fit for an untraditional and cost-effective spot to say “I Do.”
It's All in the Details
With a smaller guest count and cost savings on a venue, you can allocate more of your budget towards the small details. I’m a big fan of lush bridal bouquets, custom calligraphy pieces, jewelry made by local artisans, thrifted and upcycled wardrobe elements, and personalized keepsakes. If you’re getting hitched at the courthouse, why not go the extra mile with your cost savings and hire the hair and makeup artist you’ve had your eye on and style your outfit to the nines with a trendy pearl purse and custom bridal jacket? Or if you are celebrating with your 20 closest family and friends, rent out a private room at your favorite restaurant and treat your guests to a farm-to-table meal. The possibilities truly become endless - and that’s the beauty of small-scale, out-of-the-box events.
Don't Be Afraid of Other's Opinions
It's important to note that you shouldn’t alter your plans to fit someone else’s idea of a wedding. Do you want to get married inside of a vintage bowling alley? On top of a mountain? At a junkyard? Whatever your aesthetic, it's more than valid and valuable and most importantly, yours. Celebrate your commitment to one another and starting your lives together - and put less emphasis on pleasing those around you. I promise this will ease your stress levels and make you feel so much more confident in your decision-making.
Prioritize Your Wants & Needs
At the end of the day, I encourage you to make decisions that align with your core values. You don’t want to look back and have regrets. Small, intentional celebrations of love are incredibly special and allow you the freedom and flexibility to celebrate the way you want to, not the way others want you to, so hire the wedding planner you love, book the photographer you have had your eye on for years and don’t skimp on the little things that set your heart on fire. You will thank me later.
Hero photo courtesy of Sydney Kerbyson Photography | Haus of Gravity
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