Category Archives: Weddings

Are you planning your dream Christmas wedding in Dallas, Texas? Tying the knot during the most wonderful time of the year sounds magical, but it also adds extra tasks to your already long to-do list. From finding venues and vendors available during the busy holiday season to incorporating festive touches – there’s a lot to juggle when getting married.

That’s where hiring a Christmas wedding planner can make your life so much easier. They’ll handle all the details, big and small, so you can enjoy this special time with your loved ones. Keep reading to discover nine amazing benefits of enlisting their expert help for your holiday wedding plans.

1. Expertise in Christmas Wedding Trends

When you hire a Christmas wedding planner, you gain instant access to their deep knowledge of the latest festive trends. These pros stay on top of all the hottest holiday themes, decor styles, and design ideas. They’ll even suggest creative ways to weave seasonal elements into your celebration.

This can include: 

• Picking the perfect color palette inspired by traditional Christmas hues
• Selecting romantic floral arrangements with winter blooms and greenery
• Incorporating twinkling lights, candles, ribbons, and other charming accents

Your planner can even recommend unique ideas you may have never considered. For instance, a hot chocolate bar or a life-sized gingerbread house for photos.

2. Vendor Connections and Negotiation Skills

Hiring a pro with established vendor connections is a huge advantage when planning a Christmas wedding. Reputable planners typically work with top venues, caterers, florists, and other wedding pros in the Dallas area. This insider network means they can get you priority booking and better pricing.

A planner can skillfully negotiate contracts and packages to secure the best deals for your budget. That way you won’t have to stress about finding reliable vendors or risk overpaying. They’ll even handle all the logistics like delivery schedules, set-up instructions, and more. 

3. Stress Reduction and Time Savings

Pulling off your dream Christmas wedding while juggling work, family, and other responsibilities can quickly become overwhelming. When you hire a planner, you get to pass off that massive to-do list and relax. No more endless emails and calls coordinating every tiny detail.

Your planner will take over all the planning tasks so you can actually enjoy this special time. Instead of stressing about schedules and checklists, you can focus on fun activities like shopping for your attire and wedding favors.

Moreover, having an expert handle everything allows you to be fully present without the usual wedding planning chaos. You’ll stay cool, calm, and energized.

4. Budget Management Expertise

Creating and sticking to a realistic wedding budget is one of the toughest parts of planning. Luckily, your Christmas wedding planner is a pro at managing costs. They know exactly where to splurge to wow your guests and where you can save.

They also know which venues in Dallas come with the biggest costs and where you can save without sacrificing quality. Your planner will help you prioritize the splurge-worthy details that pack a punch versus the things guests won’t really notice. Their budgeting skills ensure you make the most of every dollar.

With a professional managing your wedding funds, you can relax knowing your money is being spent wisely. No more guessing where to cut costs or risk of blowing your budget. Your planner keeps everything on track.

5. Venues and Date Availability

Trying to book your dream wedding venue during the busy Christmas season can feel impossible. Prime dates and locations get snatched up extremely quickly by other couples.

However, your Christmas wedding planner has insider connections and knowledge of venue availability you don’t. They can secure your preferred date and location well in advance before options run out. With their help, you won’t have to settle for a second-choice venue or inconvenient date just because you planned too late.

6. Personalized Design and Styling

While Christmas weddings are inherently festive, you don’t want your big day to look like a generic holiday party. Your planner excels at translating your unique vision and personality into a one-of-a-kind celebration.

From the table settings to lounge vignettes. They’ll ensure every element reflects your distinctive style. Your planner can source custom decor pieces, like a monogrammed dance floor or specialized lighting fixtures. They’ll artfully blend meaningful personal touches with dazzling Christmas flair. Under their watchful eye, your wedding will look and feel cohesive yet utterly you.

7. Day-Of Coordination and Oversight

As excited as you are for your Christmas wedding day, there’s bound to be some behind-the-scenes chaos and potential hiccups. Having a planner by your side ensures everything runs smoothly.

They’ll oversee every vendor arrival and setup, managing even the smallest details so you don’t have to. If any issues or emergencies pop up, your planner will swiftly handle them without disrupting your celebration. From coordinating your grand entrance to overseeing the sparkler send-off. They’ll be your go-to person the entire day. 

8. Wedding Day Schedule Management 

Keeping your wedding day on schedule is important, but also incredibly difficult to do seamlessly. Your wedding planner will create a comprehensive, minute-by-minute timeline and ensure everything stays on track. 

From the hair and makeup schedule to the ceremony start time. Your planner will masterfully manage it all. They’ll proactively communicate and enforce the timeline so each event flows perfectly. With an expert handling the logistics, you can relax and immerse yourself in every cherished moment without any timing stresses.

9. Lasting Memories and Heirlooms

Your Christmas-inspired wedding will fly by in a flurry of excitement and emotion. Afterward, you’ll want to relive and cherish every special moment for years to come.

Your planner ensures you’ll have amazing keepsakes by hiring top-notch photographers, videographers, and other vendors. From your album and video to special mementos like a preserved bouquet. These heirlooms are sure to transport you back to your magical celebration as time passes.

Hiring a Christmas Wedding Planner

From navigating the holiday hustle to transforming your vision into reality. The benefits of hiring a Christmas wedding planner are endless. They’ll be your expert guide and support system every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream festive celebration in Dallas, look no further than Total Events DFW. With over 20 years of coordinating events, we have everything it takes to elevate your celebration into an amazing, one-of-a-kind experience. 

Contact us today to get started. Your magical Christmas wedding awaits.

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.

Contact us to day to find out how we can help with 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.

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!

Planning a wedding is fun, overwhelming, and time-consuming for couples. Around 90% of couples use the Internet to make the work easier. Of course, the Internet makes it easier, but it’s still a lot of work.

Are you planning a wedding and feeling overwhelmed?

The solution is to hire someone to help you. You can choose between a wedding planner vs. wedding coordinator. But you should know the differences before selecting one.

Here are some of the top differences in the roles of wedding planners and coordinators. 

Timing of Hiring a Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator

A wedding planner and coordinator both assist couples with weddings. One of the key differences is the timing in which you hire each type of assistant.

A wedding planner handles more duties than a coordinator. As a result, couples typically hire wedding planners from the start. 

You’ll need to hire a wedding planner now, even if your wedding date is 6 to 12 months away. You can also hire one to plan a quick wedding.

For example, you may want to rush and plan a wedding in three months. A wedding planner can help you in this situation, too.

Learning a wedding planner’s role is vital. It helps you understand why hiring one sooner rather than later is crucial. It also helps you understand the benefits of hiring of hiring one. 

While you can also hire a wedding coordinator early, you don’t have to. A wedding coordinator’s role occurs closer to the wedding date. Thus, you won’t need one right away for all the planning stages. 

Usually, couples only need a wedding coordinator for the last month before the wedding date. Conversely, a wedding planner is helpful from the start of the planning.

Preliminary Duties 

The timing of hiring a planner or coordinator will make more sense as you learn the duties. 

First, understand the primary similarity. Wedding planners and coordinators both assist with various wedding plans. In fact, some roles even overlap. 

There are many steps for planning a wedding, and some are preliminary. A wedding coordinator does not assist with these steps, but a wedding planner does. 

The first preliminary step is setting a wedding budget. The average couple spent nearly $30,000 in 2022 on their weddings. You can set a budget below or above this, depending on the amount you’re comfortable spending.

Next, you must plan your wedding date and choose the locations. For example, where will your ceremony be held? What location will you choose for your reception?

Additionally, you’ll need a wedding planning checklist. This list tells you what steps you must complete and gives you ideas for planning.

A wedding planner can assist with setting your budget. They’ll also help with setting your date and choosing locations. Your wedding planner will also give you a checklist and help you complete the steps.

Wedding coordinators do not assist with these steps. Instead, their services come into play later in wedding planning. 

Primary Roles and Responsibilities

In addition to the preliminary duties, wedding planner duties include many other things. 

Wedding Planner Duties 

Day of Wedding Checklist

A wedding planner helps with everything. They’ll begin the job by creating a wedding checklist to follow. Then, they’ll assist with every aspect of the wedding day plan. 

They also help you create a timeline for decisions. This timeline guides the entire planning process. 

Decorations and Theme

Wedding planners are creative and innovative. They can help you select the best theme for your special day.

Next, they’ll help you find the appropriate decorations. Then, they can make the theme a reality for your wedding day.

Assisting With Vendors

Wedding planners work with you to find vendors for your wedding. You’ll need venues for the event, food, and flowers. You must hire a vendor for each thing. 

Finding vendors takes time. A wedding planner can look for them for you, alleviating your time constraints.

Guest Tasks

You can also expect the planner to tackle all the activities relating to your guests. This includes helping you create a guest list and gathering addresses and information.

It includes ordering and addressing the invitations. It also involves creating a seating chart for the event. 

Wedding Coordinator Duties 

Verifying All the Wedding Plans

A wedding coordinator’s role begins a few weeks before the wedding day. One of the major duties of the coordinator is to verify all the wedding plans. 

The coordinator scours through your plans and double checks everything. They consult the vendors and check every plan to reduce any potential problems on your wedding day.

Managing the Wedding Day

The coordinator also assists on your wedding day. They begin early in the morning and work all day until the event ends. The goal is to ensure a smooth wedding day.

Resolving Wedding Day Problems

If any problems arise on your wedding day, you’ll have someone there to address them. The coordinator handles every problem, finding effective resolutions.

You won’t have to worry about anything if you have a coordinator there. 

How to Choose the Right Professional

Understanding the differences in these roles can help you know which to hire. If you’re still wondering, consider a few things.

First, how much money do you have to spend? A wedding planner costs more but also provides more assistance.

Secondly, do you have the time and ability to plan your wedding? Some people are great at planning parties and events. You might not need a wedding planner if you’re good at these things.

However, having one could be helpful if you need assistance with the planning. A coordinator is often the best option if you want to ensure a smooth wedding day that’s free of problems. 

Let Us Help You!

As you consider the differences between a wedding planner vs. wedding coordinator, you’ll know which to hire.

We can help if you live a busy life but want a fairytale wedding. We can help with every step, turning your dreams into a reality.

Our skills, knowledge, and experience can help you plan your Dallas/Fort Worth wedding. Ready to learn more? Call us to find out more about our services.