When it comes to your wedding aesthetic, it can be overwhelming just how many details start popping up.
1.Personalization
Personalization first and foremost! Don't just replicate what you see online and in magazines. Prioritize creating a wedding day design that reflects you and your betrothed and all of the people you are celebrating with. From your menu to your floral design to the music played - all of it should tell your personal story.
Mandy Connor, Founder & Owner, Hummingbird Events & Design
2. Venue Selection
Your venue sets the stage for your entire wedding. Your guests will be looking it up as soon as they receive your invitations, so be sure to select a venue that aligns with your vision and offers opportunities for creative design and layouts.
Raquel Bickford, Founder, ROQUE Events
3. Menu
After selecting your venue, start discussing the menu design, like cocktails and the type of food you’re wanting to serve (it makes a difference!). Think about your service style – are you picturing a sit-down dinner, stations, a party atmosphere, etc.?
Ariel Becker, Executive Planner,Becker and The Co.
4.Flow and Layout
“Plan the flow of the event, from the ceremony to the reception. Ensure that the layout allows for smooth transitions and minimizes congestion.”
Raquel Bickford, Founder,ROQUE Events
5. Guest Comfort
Prioritize guest comfort with well-placed seating, appropriate lighting, and climate control. This ensures your loved ones can enjoy the celebration without any discomfort.
Raquel Bickford, Founder,ROQUE Events
6. Invitations and Stationery
Your invitations are the first glimpse into your wedding aesthetic. Invitations, menus, place cards, and other stationery items should match your theme and be cohesive with the rest of your design. Think of incorporating a custom logo or crest. Be creative with specific patterns and textures that your guests can find in your invitations, bar menu, custom napkins, and linen.
Raquel Bickford, Founder,ROQUE Events
7. Florals
When it comes to florals, everyone wants beautiful flowers but consider selections that inspire your happiest memories. Did your mother have a favorite flower growing up? Did your grandparents have special types of flowers growing in their yard when you were a child? These are all wonderful ways to inspire storytelling and beautiful memories throughout your wedding day.
Mandy Connor, Founder & Owner,Hummingbird Events & Design
8. Tablescapes
Pay attention to table settings, centerpieces, and linens. These details contribute to the overall aesthetic and can make a significant impact on the guest experience. Consider adding custom napkins, charger plates for a more elevated feel, a menu/place card combo so that guests feel like they were well thought of – things like this make a difference. It is more likely that they take their menu home with them as well! Upgrade your glassware or water glass as this will give each place setting a more elevated feel.
Raquel Bickford, Founder,ROQUE Events
9. Seating Charts + Seating Arrangements
Thoughtful seating charts can greatly enhance your guests' experience. Consider creating a seating chart that encourages guest interaction. Remember that the seating chart structure you choose should align with your overall wedding theme and the atmosphere you want to create. It's a good idea to consider the comfort of your guests, the flow of the event, and the interaction you hope to encourage among your friends and family.
Raquel Bickford, Founder,ROQUE Events
10. Transportation
Don't forget about the getaway vehicle! If you plan to do a grand send-off, choose a vehicle that has importance to you and plan your getaway vehicle decor carefully (I love to repurpose flowers from the day!)
Mandy Connor, Founder & Owner,Hummingbird Events & Design