Blog - Total Events DFW

13Apr2024

Do I Need a Wedding Planner in Fort Worth, Texas?

Your wedding day in Fort Worth is approaching, and you’re feeling the stress of making it perfect.

You aren’t sure whether you can pull it off yourself, which leads to your question: “Do I need a wedding planner?”

Good news… today we’re answering that question, as well as diving into the detail of the many things a wedding planner can provide to help you plan a wedding that you’ve dreamed of!

Understanding the Role of a Wedding Planner

A wedding planner wears many hats, all of which aim to bring your dream wedding to life while easing the stress that comes with planning.

First off, they’re your guide. They know the ins and outs of weddings, from the big picture down to the tiny details you might not even think of.

They help you set a budget that makes sense and show you how to stick to it. This is a big deal because budgets can quickly spiral out of control without expert advice.

Wedding planners also act as your go-between with vendors. They have connections with caterers, photographers, and wedding venues. They know who to call, what to ask for, and how to negotiate better deals.

This alone can save you a lot of time and money. Plus, they can introduce you to options you didn’t even know existed.

On your wedding day, the planner makes sure everything goes smoothly. They handle any last-minute issues so you can focus on enjoying your big day. They’re like a conductor for your wedding, ensuring every part of the event flows together beautifully.

Hiring a wedding planner means having a professional by your side who’s focused on making your wedding as perfect as it can be. They bring your vision to life while allowing you to relax and be present in the moment.

Do I Need a Wedding Planner?

Deciding whether you need a wedding planner starts with looking at your wedding itself. Think about how big you want your wedding to be.

Large weddings with many guests and different parts, like the wedding ceremony and reception in separate places, often need more planning. This is where a wedding planner can help a lot. They can keep track of everything and make sure it all fits together well.

Your own schedule is another thing to think about. Planning a wedding takes a lot of time. If you and your partner are busy with work or other commitments, finding time to plan might be hard.

A wedding planner can do the heavy lifting for you. They can make calls, set up meetings, and handle details that you might not have time for.

It’s also smart to consider how familiar you are with Fort Worth’s wedding scene. If you’re not sure where to start looking for venues or vendors, a wedding planner can guide you.

They know the area well and can suggest places that match your style and budget. This local knowledge can be a big help, especially if you’re looking for something unique or specific for your wedding day.

Financial Considerations

When you start planning your wedding, one of the first things you’ll think about is your budget. Hiring a wedding planner is an extra cost, but it’s important to weigh that against what they can save you in the long run.

Wedding planners have connections and know-how that can lead to discounts and deals you might not get on your own. They can also help you avoid costly mistakes by guiding your choices and helping you make the most of your budget.

The cost of a wedding planner in Fort Worth varies depending on what you need. Some planners offer full-service packages, while others might charge a flat rate or an hourly fee for less comprehensive help.

When deciding if a wedding planner fits into your budget, consider what services you need the most. For some, the peace of mind and saved time are worth the cost.

Besides their fee, think about how a wedding planner can impact your overall wedding expenses. They often know which vendors offer the best value and can help you negotiate prices.

Also, their experience and attention to detail can prevent last-minute emergencies that might end up costing you more.

The DIY Approach vs. Professional Planning

Planning your own wedding can be rewarding. It lets you put a personal touch on every detail of your big day.

However, it also means you have to manage every aspect yourself. This includes choosing vendors, setting dates, and sticking to a budget. These tasks can be overwhelming, especially if you’re already busy.

On the other hand, hiring a professional wedding planner can take a lot of pressure off you and your partner. Planners have the experience to handle unexpected issues and ensure your wedding day goes smoothly.

They can be your problem solver, dealing with any hiccups so you can focus on celebrating your love.

A wedding planner also brings a level of expertise that can be hard to match on your own. They know the ins and outs of the wedding industry and can provide valuable insights and advice.

This can be especially helpful in Fort Worth, where local knowledge can make a big difference in finding the perfect venue and vendors.

Ultimately, the choice between DIY and hiring a planner comes down to what you value most. If having direct control and putting your personal stamp on your wedding is important to you, the DIY route might be the way to go. If you’d rather ensure everything runs smoothly and reduce stress, a wedding planner could be your best ally.

Wedding Planning Success

The question “Do I need a wedding planner?” is personal and depends on your specific situation. Whether it’s managing details, reducing stress, or bringing your unique vision to life, a wedding planner can ensure your Fort Worth wedding is as beautiful and seamless as imagined.

With more than 20 years in the DFW event industry, Total Events DFW has everything you need to make your event a success. From entertainment, to décor & lighting, to anything your wildest dreams could come up with, Total Events stands at the ready to elevate your event.

14Mar2024

10 Company Event Ideas Your Employees and Clients Will Love in Fort Worth, TX

With the pandemic over, company events are back en vogue. This year, the event industry should finally make a full recovery to 2019 levels.

Why are corporate events so important to the businesses hosting them? In essence, they’re a major building block of company culture. They allow employees and clients to have some fun while networking with each other.

Unfortunately, many companies aren’t that creative when it comes to events. Rather than explore new company event ideas, they opt for a traditional approach. As a result, these events usually fail to excite anyone.

Want to make sure your next event in Fort Worth, TX, is authentic and memorable? Here are ideas for corporate events you’ll want to consider!

1. Escape Room

It’s easy to see why escape rooms are a popular event activity. They’re fun tasks that challenge participants to work together toward a common goal. To really get them to put on their creative hats, add a time limit as well.

Another great thing about escape rooms is that they’re very flexible. For starters, you can have them at your event venue or at an off-site location. You can also tailor the theme to something relevant to your business.

2. Casino Night

From poker to roulette, most people have a favorite casino game. Make that work in your favor by transforming your event space into a casino for one night. For an authentic experience, consider hiring professional dealers.

Depending on who’s invited, you may want to play for fun, charity, or real prizes. If you opt for the former, it’s still a good idea to provide some form of mock currency. Again, it’s best to use something specific to your brand.

3. Live Music

Are you planning an event filled with lectures and keynote speakers? If so, the least you can do is spice it up with some live music. A live band or the right DJ can both set the stage (so to speak) for a fun experience.

If you have the budget for it, consider making a splash by hiring a big-name artist. If not, there are plenty of great local artists in Fort Worth as well! Just make sure you hire an act that aligns with your audience’s tastes.

4. Scavenger Hunt

Another classic team building exercise, scavenger hunts are always a great time. Like escape rooms, they provide communication and problem-solving skills. Unlike escape rooms, though, they tend to be easier to plan.

For a scavenger hunt, all you need to do is give attendees a list of items they need to find. As the hunt continues, you may also want to show their progress on the leaderboard. This will help fuel the competitive spirit.

5. Baking Contest

If you’re hosting a holiday party for your employees, consider a baking contest. First, have your attendees bake their favorite holiday treats before the event. Then, bring them to a panel of judges, i.e. other team members.

A baking contest is a great way to bring out your employees’ creativity in a friendly competition. Plus, you get to enjoy all the delicious treats that entered the contest. It’s a win-win for everyone!

6. Mixology Course

Speaking of holiday treats, how about a hands-on mixology class? Have a professional mixologist show your team how to mix up their favorite cocktails. This allows your employees to socialize while learning new skills.

For best results, have your mixology course take place during happy hour. Keep in mind that all company events come with specific logistics. Happy hour is a chance to shake up the more relaxing parts of the schedule.

7. Virtual Reality

As an event organizer, one of your goals should be to offer an immersive experience. Virtual reality is a great fit! This technology allows your attendees to engage with your content rather than passively listen to it.

The best thing about virtual reality is that you can use it for many purposes. If you’ve got an awards ceremony coming up, VR can spice it up. You can also use VR to enhance some of the above games, like scavenger hunts.

8. Comedy Show

There’s no escaping it: the corporate world is serious business. This is why company events are a good opportunity to take a break from it. Booking a comedian to perform their latest set is a great way to achieve that.

As with live music, you’ll want a performer who appeals to your audience. Comedians who are “working blue”, for instance, usually aren’t a great fit. Consider hiring an event planner to help you find the right person.

9. Paint and Sip

With corporate event planning, it’s all about finding out how to break the ice. One thing that may help is to encourage artistic expression. A paint-and-sip activity allows attendees to do that while enjoying tasty drinks.

If you’ve never hosted a paint-and-sip, it’s exactly what it sounds like! You provide attendees with painting supplies and drinks, then have them go to town. For added motivation, let them keep the paintings they create.

10. Secret Gift Exchange

If the holidays are closing in, your event could benefit from a secret gift exchange. Also known as Secret Santa, this tradition is great for team building as it encourages attendees to think about what others may like.

To make the most of this exercise, set a specific price range for all gifts. If you have the budget for it, you may even want to finance the whole affair. At the event, you can make a big deal out of unwrapping the gifts as well.

Best Company Event Ideas for You

The bottom line: fun company event ideas come in many forms. Picking one will depend on your budget and whether you’re using your own facilities. The above list contains a variety of options that may work for you!

Need some help with organizing a company event in Fort Worth, TX? At Total Events DFW, we’ve elevated 2,000+ events to a whole new level! Reach out to us here to find out what we can do for your company!

13Feb2024

Dallas Dream Wedding: Top 8 Venues for Your Big Day

Younger generations are expected to increase the marriage rates in the next few years. In fact, 83% of Gen Z and Millennials expect to wed at some point. If the time to tie the knot is sooner than later, you need to start planning right away! A wedding is a great experience for couples to show their love story and make a lifelong commitment.

First, start by finding the perfect wedding venue. This guide on the best wedding venues in Dallas can help you out.

1. Arlington Hall at Turtle Creek Park

Arlington Hall is perfect for couples who want a true Southern-style wedding. The venue is a model of the Custis-Lee mansion in Arlington, Virginia.

Situated at Turtle Creek Park, this 30s-era building has much to offer. Despite the vintage feel, the building was carefully restored in 2002 to host intimate weddings.

Arlington Hall is one of the best wedding venues in Dallas for its endless possibilities, thanks to the ample amount of space.

If you are struggling to decide between an outdoor wedding or an intimate indoor ceremony, you don’t have to choose this venue.

2. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is one of the most unique wedding venues in Dallas.

In the Spring, couples can get married among 500,000 bulbs, 3,000 azaleas, and beautiful cherry blossoms. Spring is the best time to enjoy the most vibrant flowers, but the venue is beautiful year-round.

Couples who want a gorgeous fall wedding can enjoy the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village with over 90,000 gourds, squash, and pumpkins.

Wedding photographs will come out beautifully as you will be surrounded by fall-blooming plants and colors. Every tree-lined path is perfect for photographs and a stunning wedding overall.

You have the option between a daytime and nighttime wedding. You can choose where you want your ceremony to take place as well. The “Secret Garden” and Karen’s Gazebo are two popular options.

3. Nasher Sculpture Garden

Art fans of big names like Matisse, Calder, Picasso, and Giacometti enjoy getting married at Nasher Sculpture Garden. This modern venue is surrounded by work from master sculptors and famous water features.

This open-air reception is a great outdoor space for weddings with up to 300 guests. If you want to hold the ceremony indoors at Nasher Hall, you’ll need a more intimate party as it only holds up to 200 guests.

The cherry on top of this venue is that Wolfgang Puck Catering exclusively caters. Offering a host of seasonal offerings and creative menus, you’ll be sure to have the best cuisine at your wedding in this garden.

4. The Joule Hotel

When it comes to luxury wedding venues in Dallas, The Joule Hotel takes the cake. You can enjoy an indoor or outdoor wedding with multiple ceremony and reception spots within the hotel.

There’s no other place in Dallas where the bride can make her big entrance from a transparent elevator. Talk about fancy…

With a perfect view of the Dallas skyline, you might be tempted to hold your wedding on the rooftop. No matter what part of the hotel you choose, you’ll benefit from modern decor and unique features unlike any other venue.

The best part is that the hotel is home to the Midnight Rambler cocktail lounge, with a drink menu crafted by the award-winning Best Bartender in Dallas, Gabe Sanchez.

If you and your guests tend to keep the party going late, consider renting out the Midnight Rambler for after-wedding festivities.

5. Rosewood Mansion

Nestled between the tall and luscious trees of the Turtle Creek Neighborhood, the Rosewood Mansion is a vintage wedding dream.

Rosewood Mansion is a hotel conveniently located right in the heart of Dallas, despite the feeling that you’ve been transported to a magical place.

The top features of this wedding venue are the gorgeous balconies, columns, and the sun-lit reception foyer. With a European-style ballroom, you can keep the dancing going all night long.

The hotel itself is popular for more than just weddings. Your out-of-town guests can stay at the hotel and enjoy a delicious terrace restaurant and poolside service in the summer.

6. The White Sparrow

In 2017, The White Sparrow was named one of the top wedding venues in the country by Brides magazine. As a giant in the category of small wedding venues in Dallas, this place is always booked and busy.

Plan your wedding early on to avoid potential booking issues.

Couples who want a luxurious barn wedding will be pleased by this aesthetic venue. Rustic chic is the best way to describe such a place.

7. The Schoolhouse Venue

The Schoolhouse venue is perfect for high school sweethearts as it is a historic renovation of an old schoolhouse. After restoration in 2019, the venue became home to gorgeous architecture and vintage details that make it an ideal spot for weddings.

If you are having a day wedding, you’ll love the natural lighting this space receives. As a historical landmark, you get to wed your best friend with a unique experience.

8. The Mason

For the perfect downtown Dallas wedding, choose The Mason. Not only is this space located conveniently downtown but it was made for the classic couple.

Your ceremony will be held directly in front of a decorated fireplace. The venue is filled with a bright interior thanks to its large windows.

With three floors of space, you can get ready, have your ceremony, and hold the reception all in one place.

The Mason is a blank canvas for couples who want to create their theme to tell their love story.

Best Wedding Venues in Dallas: A Space for Everyone

The best wedding venues in Dallas are all unique in their own right. For an unforgettable celebration, consider these eight amazing options for your big day.

Total Events DFW has over 20 years in the event industry within the local area. We strive to make every event an elevated experience.

We do much more than help you choose the perfect venue. We’re ready to plan decor, lighting, entertainment, and more!

Reach out to us today to learn how we can transform your wedding day into something worth remembering.

12Jan2024

Combinations of May Wedding Colors Your Planner Recommends

11% of couples tie the knot in May each year, making it the fourth most popular month for weddings. As the old saying goes, April showers bring May flowers, which are the perfect backdrop for late spring nuptials.

Dallas-Fort Worth wedding planners often recommend the month of May. Warm and sunny with little chance of rain, May strikes the ideal balance for couples who wish they could say ‘I do’ in the summer but want to avoid the Texas heat.

At the same time, it is a transitional month, making choosing May wedding colors a bit of a chore. You may not want a color palette that screams summer, but spring pastels may not feel right, either.

We’re here to help you find the best collection of hues for your May wedding. Read on for the color combinations that will make your late spring/early summer service stand out from the rest.

Green and White

Green and white is a classic wedding color palette. But it can also work for Bohemian-style nuptials with the addition of shades of bronze and orange, a la Vanessa Hudgens’ ceremony in Mexico.

For a more traditional wedding venue, go for lily of valley bouquets (they’re in season in May!) tied with olive-green silk ribbons. Drape your bridesmaids in gowns colored Spanish Moss, a trendy cool-toned green that looks flattering on a variety of skin tones.

Brides on the more glamorous side can also incorporate shades of green and white. Simply add pops of metal tones like gold or silver and dress reception tables with crystal settings for a refined look.

Blush Pink, Magenta, and Lavender

With pink’s recent explosion due to the rise of Barbie-core and the release of the eponymous film, it should be no wonder many brides are looking to incorporate this feminine hue into their wedding colors.

One way to bring in Barbie pink without compromising on taste is to pair it with softer shades. Blush pink provides a refined, grown-up complement to magenta, while lavender offers a gentle break for the eyes.

Tone down the bright, cheery girliness with a backdrop of soft neutrals. Avoid stark white and pick shades like dove or eggshell. A pale, smokey gray or cool-toned silver would also pair gorgeously with this fun palette.

Cobalt Blue and Orange

Cobalt blue is one of the top wedding colors of 2024. Blue is always a fan-favorite for brides, but this year’s trending shade is bolder and more pigmented than the cornflower blues of years past.

Pair this trendy color with an equally statement-making hue: orange. Blue and orange are complementary, meaning they are opposite each other on the color wheel. This pairing will stand out in your guests’ minds for years to come.

Bridesmaids with deeper skin tones are especially suited to these saturated shades. And can you even imagine how gorgeous in-season orchid blooms paired with vibrant orange roses would look against your pure white gown?

Peach, Coral, and Lilac

Pantone’s color of the year is Peach Fuzz. This warm pastel orange will be everywhere in 2024, making it an easy choice for brides this year. Pair it with equally sunny shades like vibrant coral and pastel lavender.

We won’t deny that peach fuzz is a difficult color to pull off, so consider allowing your bridesmaids to pick a dress in their favorite of your three chosen hues.

Choosing florals will be a breeze. Many of the most popular May flowers naturally come in this color palette. And if you’re having a beach wedding, including coral gives a nod to the most beautiful animals of the sea.

Yellow, Orange, and Green

A smart wedding planner can tweak this color palette in so many different ways. Try marigold, burnt orange, and olive green for your 70s-inspired nuptials. Or choose a pale yellow, coral orange, and kelly green for something subtly tropical.

If you go the retro route, bring in plenty of vintage lace. Flower crowns for you and your bridesmaids are optional but highly recommended. Fill the room with groovy daisies and lush wildflowers to complete the theme.

A beachside outdoor wedding would not be complete without yellow hibiscus flowers and orange-and-green birds of paradise. Dress your bridesmaids in green florals for something unexpected.

Shades of White and Brown

Perhaps surprisingly, brown is another in-demand wedding color many brides are requesting this year. It comes in an array of laid-back shades, perfect for anything from a minimalist ceremony to your Western-themed big day.

Pair this trendy wedding neutral with cozy shades of white and textural elements. Think mushroom, latte, and cream over bright whites. Choose fringe, rattan, and bronze metal accents to liven things up a bit.

While you can find flowers in shades of brown and white, you can also consider alternatives for your one-of-a-kind bouquet. Honey-colored wheat stalks, rust-hued ferns, and rich brown cotton stalks are all creative ideas to try.

Orange, Peach, Wine, and Gold

Another beautiful way to incorporate peach into your May wedding is with a palette inspired by early summer sunsets. This idea is especially perfect for weddings held at dusk.

Continue the symbolism with plenty of orange and gold candles. Laden your venue with orange, peach, and burgundy wildflowers, or keep things classy with roses in the same hues.

At your reception, scatter the tables with bowls of in-season, sunset-colored fruits like cherries, apricots, strawberries, and figs. Your guests will feel like they’ve arrived in the Garden of Eden.

These Are the Best May Wedding Colors

While you can choose whatever May wedding colors your heart desires, these are some of the trendiest yet unexpected palettes for 2024. We hope this list has inspired you to choose a collection of shades that are both pleasing to guests and unique to you.

Do you need help planning your May wedding in Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas? Total Events DFW is a full-service wedding planner that can help you with everything from finding the right color palette to locating the perfect venue, photographers, DJ, and more.

Learn more about our wedding planning services, and contact us to get started today!

13Dec2023

How to Choose a Holiday Party Venue: Top Tips From a Dallas, TX Event Planner

The holiday season sees the average American attending up to five different gatherings, with Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations being the most popular. This flurry of festive events brings to the forefront the challenge of selecting the perfect holiday party venue. In the vibrant city of Dallas, TX, the choices can seem endless.

Written by a seasoned Dallas event planner, this blog is your go-to guide for finding the ideal holiday party venues. With the festive season on the horizon, it’s time to start considering your options.

From intimate family get-togethers to large corporate celebrations, our tips will help you find the perfect spot. Let’s get started!

Set a Budget

When planning a wedding or any event, it’s essential to divide a specific part of your budget for venue fees. Dallas venues offer a range of options, but costs can vary significantly. Remember, the price tag isn’t just about the space; it’s also about the extras.

Be vigilant about hidden costs that can sneak up on you – like service fees, setup charges, or more amenities. This foresight helps you avoid unexpected expenses and keeps your party within financial bounds. A well-planned budget is your best tool for a successful and stress-free holiday celebration in the heart of Texas.

Determine Guest Count

Having a clear idea of your guest list range is essential. This number is more than just a tally; it shapes everything from the size of your venue to the amount of food and drinks you’ll need. It’s wise to start with a rough count, but also be prepared for flexibility.

Attendee numbers can fluctuate – some guests might drop out at the last minute, while others might bring plus-ones. Being adaptable to the number of attendees will help you manage any changes smoothly. This approach not only ensures you’re prepared for varying scenarios but also assists in making informed decisions about your event space and logistics.

Choose a Theme and Entertainment

A well-chosen theme not only sets the tone but also gets employees buzzing with excitement. Think beyond just a color scheme; consider how your theme will influence every aspect of the party, from seasonal decorations and attire to food and holiday party entertainment.

Whether it’s a Winter Wonderland, a Festive Fiesta, or a Classic Holiday Gala, your theme should resonate with your guests and create a memorable experience. Remember, the right theme can transform a simple venue into an enchanting space, making your holiday party an event to remember. It’s all about creating an immersive atmosphere that aligns with the spirit of the season.

Shop for a Venue

Start by considering how many guests you’ll have to narrow down your options. Remember, the right space sets the stage for a successful event. Many venues offer discounted rates for hosting on off-peak days – a savvy way to get more value while staying within your budget.

Once you have a clear idea of your guest count, date, and financial plan, secure your location. It’s essential to choose a venue that not only fits your needs but also offers top-notch corporate event services. These services can range from catering to technology support, ensuring your event runs smoothly.

Consider Catering and Refreshments

Partnering with a premium caterer can elevate your event significantly. Visualize seasonal hors d’oeuvres and chef-attended stations gracing your party. These elements not only tantalize the taste buds but also add a layer of sophistication and charm.

Have a chef present to guarantee the food is not only prepared properly but also becomes a part of the entertainment. As you plan, think about how catering fits into your event layout, the placement of food stations, and the flow of guests around them. The integration of dining areas in your venue can transform the experience.

Be Mindful of Hidden Costs

When selecting a venue, it’s not just about the rental fee. Dig deeper to uncover any more expenses lurking beneath the surface. This means scrutinizing the contract for extra charges like service fees, setup costs, or extra hours.

Ask questions and clarify every detail. Inspect the venue and inquire about anything that might incur extra charges, from audio-visual equipment to parking facilities. Being vigilant about these hidden costs upfront can save you from surprises later on.

Remember, successful holiday party planning involves not just creating a festive atmosphere but also ensuring your budget stays on track without any last-minute financial hurdles.

Check the Venue’s Reputation

Choose a venue renowned for hosting dynamic and inventive events, with a flair for professionalism. It’s crucial to pick a location with a strong history of managing corporate holiday parties. This guarantees a blend of creativity and expertise for your event.

Such venues not only provide the perfect backdrop but also bring a wealth of experience and expertise in managing corporate events. They understand the nuances of corporate event spaces, from the technical needs to the subtle art of creating the right ambiance.

A venue with a good reputation usually has a skilled team capable of meeting your specific needs and handling surprises, guaranteeing a smooth event that impresses your guests.

Flexibility and Backup Options

It’s important to be adaptable to what different venues offer. Sometimes, what you envision might not be workable. So being open to alternatives can open up new possibilities for your event.

Also, it’s wise to have a plan B. Popular venues get booked quickly, especially during the holiday season. If your top choice is unavailable, having a list of backup venues ensures you’re not left scrambling at the last minute.

Let Our Experts Help You Find the Best Dallas Holiday Party Venues

Choosing the right holiday party venue in Dallas, TX can be the difference between an average gathering and an unforgettable celebration. Remember, consider the size, budget, and reputation of the venue, and always have a backup plan. Be aware of hidden costs and make sure the venue aligns with your theme and catering needs. Flexibility and attention to detail are key.

Ready to find the perfect spot for your holiday bash? Let Total Events DFW guide you to the best holiday party venues in town. Get in touch with us today and make your holiday event a spectacular one.

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