Category Archives: Weddings

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. 

Did you know that, according to one study by The Knot, the average engagement lasts 16 months? That’s over a year to plan and prepare for the big day.

But what if you don’t want to wait that long? What if you’re eager to tie the knot and want to do it in just three months? Planning a wedding in 3 months may seem impossible, but it’s certainly doable with the right approach.

Follow along as we explore whether planning a wedding in 3 months is possible and offer tips to help you pull it off without a hitch.

How to Plan a Wedding

From choosing a venue to selecting the perfect dress, a lot goes into making your big day special. Traditionally, the planning process can take up to 12 or even 18 months. Why does it take so long, though?

Typically, wedding planning begins with:

• Creating a guest list
• Choosing a venue
• Setting a budget

Once those basics are established, you’ll need to consider other essential elements, such as the wedding party, catering, and entertainment. Be sure to communicate openly with your partner and delegate tasks. Hiring a coordinator to help guide you through the process can also be incredibly beneficial.

Ultimately, though, wedding planning often takes so long due to the sheer number of decisions that need to be made. Remember, at the end of the day, celebrating your love with friends and family is the most important thing!

Types of Weddings

When planning a beautiful wedding in just three months, it’s important to consider what type of wedding you want. You don’t have to limit yourself to a standard, traditional wedding. Here are some types of weddings that might be perfect for a short planning period.

City Hall Wedding

A simple and quick ceremony at your local courthouse may be just what you need if you’re short on time and funds. Plus, you can always plan a larger celebration later on.

Backyard Wedding

If you have a nice backyard or know someone who does, a backyard wedding can be lovely and budget-friendly. With some creative décor and DIY touches, it can be as beautiful as any other venue.

Destination Wedding

It might seem counterintuitive, but planning a destination wedding can actually simplify the planning process. Many resorts and hotels offer all-inclusive wedding packages, including everything from the ceremony to the reception.

Elopement

Sometimes, the most romantic thing you can do is run away and get married. Keep it simple with just the two of you, or invite a few close friends to witness your big day.

Tips for Planning a Wedding in 3 Months

Planning a wedding in 3 months may seem challenging, but it is definitely doable. With careful planning and realistic expectations, you can have the wedding of your dreams without feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Here are some tips on how to make it happen.

Set Your Priorities

To plan a successful wedding, you need to know what you want. Think about what is most important to you and your partner. It could be the venue, the food, or the dress. Once you set your priorities, you can focus on these key areas and make sure they are perfect.

Keep It Simple

With limited time, it’s best to simplify wherever possible. For instance, instead of having a large bridal party, consider having just a maid of honor and a best man. This will make it easy to coordinate for the big day and minimize any added stress.

Be Open to Wedding Ideas

If a wedding planner is outside of your budget, then don’t be afraid to be creative. Go online to search for wedding trends and ideas. Use Pinterest to get inspired. You may stumble upon some genius and affordable ideas that will make your day unforgettable.

Be Savvy

When planning a wedding, costs can easily escalate. But there are a lot of ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. For example, consider having a dessert table instead of an expensive cake.

Use Your Resources

Your friends and family can be a great resource for planning your wedding. They may have wedding ideas or skills that can contribute to making your day beautiful. Ask those who have been married before to share their experience and any tips to lower the stress.

Choose a Unique Venue

Finding a unique venue can be a great way to have a beautiful wedding without much work. Think outside the box. Consider non-traditional venues like barns, art galleries, and botanical gardens. These places can reflect your personality and make the day more meaningful.

Hire a Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner can be a saving grace when planning your special day in just a few months. They have experience and expertise that can help you easily navigate the overwhelming planning process.

How can they help? A wedding planner can help you with everything, including:

• Finding a venue
• Selecting vendors
• Managing timelines
• Budgeting

They can also offer advice and recommendations, provide creative ideas, and help negotiate deals with vendors. Some wedding planners even offer event design and coordination services, so you don’t have to worry about a single detail on your big day.

With a wedding planner, you’ll have someone who has your best interests at heart and will work tirelessly to ensure your wedding day is perfect. Having a wedding planner means that you’re not alone amid the madness. Instead, they’ll be there every step of the way to handle all the logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly.

When it comes down to it, hiring a wedding planner is a smart investment for any couple planning their wedding in a condensed timeframe. They’ll take the pressure off and assist you in creating a beautiful and memorable wedding day.

Get the Party Started

Planning a wedding in 3 months is an achievable feat! Don’t let a short timeline stress you out. Our wedding planning services can ensure your perfect day is executed flawlessly.

Contact us now with your wedding date and details to take the first step in bringing your dream wedding to life!

Did you know that in 2021, the US saw 1,985,072 marriages?

Marriage is a beautiful time when two people choose to spend the rest of their lives together in spousal bliss. But while the day itself is a memory to cherish for a lifetime, the planning process can be a little more stressful.

That’s where an event planning service comes in. With these wedding tips, we’ll explain how a full-service wedding planner can help you see your special day go off without a hitch!

Read on to learn more about how pro planners can help you organize a wedding. 

1. Stress Reduction

The last thing you want on your special day is to be caught up in the worry of the details – whether they be big or small. Unfortunately, though, wedding planning often comes with an unwelcome side of stress.

From selecting vendors to managing timelines, the to-do list can quickly become overwhelming. Even if you think you and your team have everything covered, there’s sure to be something you’ve missed. This can lead to a mad rush at short notice.

By enlisting a full-service wedding planner, you’re entrusting a seasoned pro to handle the nitty-gritty details. This leaves you free to savor every moment of your engagement and special day without being bogged down by logistics.

2. Expertise in Design and Styling

Creating a cohesive and visually stunning wedding requires an eye for design and a flair for creativity. While most people have a big-picture idea for the venue and design, it can be difficult to make your dreams a reality if you don’t have event design experience.

That’s where a social event planner can help. They’ve got the experience and expertise to make your design dreams a reality. Whether you want a traditional look or something alternative, they’ll suggest loads of exciting design ideas to try.

The best professional wedding planners possess a deep understanding of design elements, color palettes, and the latest decor trends. They’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring that every detail is flawlessly executed.

3. Vendor Network and Negotiations

A successful wedding relies on a network of skilled and dedicated vendors who work together to create a harmonious celebration. These professionals include photographers, florists, caterers, decorators, and more. Establishing a strong vendor network is the foundation for a memorable event.

Navigating this world of wedding vendors can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the industry. However, full-service wedding planners have an extensive network of trusted vendors at their fingertips.

This not only saves you time and effort but also gives you access to preferred rates through their established relationships. This means you get access to premium providers at a fraction of the normal cost.

4. Budget Management

Weddings can be expensive, and managing your costs is crucial. Whatever your budget, good planning and sound financial decisions mean you don’t have to settle for less.

A skilled wedding planner will help you allocate funds wisely, offering insights into where to splurge and where to save. An experienced wedding planner knows that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to budgeting.

They tailor their approach to your unique circumstances, understanding your priorities, preferences, and financial constraints.

Planners can also recommend creative alternatives that achieve the same effect at a fraction of the cost. This expertise ensures that you get the most value for your investment without compromising your vision. 

5. Timely Execution

Timing is everything when you plan a wedding. Just one weak link can throw the entire proceedings into disarray. 

From sending out invitations to ensuring vendors are in sync, wedding planners make sure everyone is on the same page and doing what they’re supposed to be. That way, you can relax-assured in the knowledge that everything will go to plan on the day.

When you opt for a full-service plan, you get a comprehensive timeline that keeps everything on track. This means you can relax and enjoy the moments leading up to the wedding, knowing that every detail is under control.

6. Crisis Management and Problem Solving

Did you know that 9.1% of US weddings involve a physical altercation of some sort? No matter how meticulously you plan, unexpected hiccups can arise during a wedding. And while a fight is (hopefully) an outside possibility, small issues can still have a big effect on the day.

Whether it’s a last-minute vendor change, weather-related adjustments, or a wardrobe malfunction, you need someone on hand to get the problem fixed.

A full-service wedding planner is a pro at handling unforeseen challenges with poise and efficiency, leaving you to bask in the joy of the day. Remember, the number one goal is to make sure nothing upsets the bride! After all, it is her special day.

Wedding planners work fast to contain crises and get things back on track, allowing the guests to relax and share in the joy of marriage.

Guarantee Joy With a Full-Service Wedding Planner

In the process of planning a wedding, the assistance of a full-service wedding planner can’t be overstated.

From reducing stress and managing details to budget management, and timely execution, their role is pivotal in ensuring your special day is one to remember forever.

At Total Events DFW, we’re here to bring your wedding vision to life. Our team is committed to creating memorable experiences for all kinds of occasions. Contact us today to start planning your wedding or any other event you have in mind!

Are you getting married in the coming year? Finding the right wedding photographer for the big day is a must.

We don’t have to tell you how much you’ve got to do to prepare for your wedding day, but you’d be remiss not to book your photographer far in advance. There are over 250,000 photography businesses in the country, most of which will happily do weddings.

With so many photographers out there, how on earth are you supposed to pick one for your wedding? That’s what we’re here to discuss in this post. Keep reading, and we’ll give you the complete guide on choosing a wedding photographer who’ll perfectly capture your wedding and give you something to remember for years to come.

Come Up With a Budget

Before you actually start your search for the perfect wedding photographer, you need to know how much you can spend. It helps to do a bit of research beforehand to find out how much people typically pay for wedding photography.

The difference between photographers and other wedding vendors is the price range. You can get an inexperienced photographer that wants to build a portfolio for free or a seasoned photographer that charges normal rates. Which you choose depends on how professional you want your pictures to be.

Have An Idea of Your Style

Every couple dreams of how their big day will look, and you want that to come across with the photos. If you’ve got any thoughts on the poses, setting, or look of the photos, make sure you can explain this to a photographer.

You should also make sure you’re both on the same page with what you want. A good photographer should be able to achieve whatever look you’re going for, but they aren’t mind readers, so you need to act as the de facto director.

Do an Online Search

When you’re ready, start your search by heading to Google and looking for photographers near you. This should give you a wide range of photographers in your area to start with.

If you’re in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, you may want to consult a wedding planner to help you find a great photographer. At Total Events DFW, we work with a wide variety of wedding vendors, including photographers and entertainers, so we can give you the best in the area.

Check Past Client Reviews

Whether you’re hiring a wedding planner or going it alone, it’s going to make your life easier to look at past client reviews. Testimonials and reviews tell you so much about the quality of a photographer and what it’s like to work with them.

This is important information before you hire someone. No one can tell you more about a photographer than a couple who has already worked with them, so read through the reviews and choose a few of the top-rated photographers to contact first.

Look At Their Portfolio

You’ll also be able to glean a lot of insight through a photographer’s portfolio. If you’ve got an eye for photography, you can narrow down your selection of photographers by comparing their portfolios to the style that you and your spouse-to-be came up with together.

If you can’t find a portfolio on their website – or they don’t have a website – don’t be afraid to ask them for samples. You can’t be expected to make this important decision without seeing samples of their work first.

Consider Lighting

Presumably, you’ve already booked your venue by the time you’re looking for a photographer. As you may or may not know, lighting is one of the most crucial aspects of photography, so this needs to be discussed with prospective photographers.

For instance, if you have access to an outdoor backdrop, taking advantage of daylight will be important. In terms of indoor shots, it’s good to know if they’ll be using flash or bringing their own lighting setup to the venue. This is one of those practical things that gets overlooked when you’re overwhelmed by the wedding planning process.

Do They Do Video

More and more couples want a wedding video in addition to their wedding photographs. If you can find a photographer that can do both, you’ll save yourself time and money.

It’s important to discuss their wedding photo/video packages. You don’t want to miscommunicate and not get video services when you think you are getting them. The photographer may need to bring extra equipment to accommodate your video requests, which may cost more money.

Find Out Rates

Since you spent some time coming up with a budget earlier on, the next thing you should do after you’ve narrowed the search down is asking about rates. Pick the photographer with the best-looking portfolio that also fits within your budget.

Photograph Rights

Another overlooked thing that your photographer should bring up is the rights to the pictures. Many couples just assume that with the photography fee, they obtain the rights to the photos, but this isn’t usually the case.

It’s good to tackle the legal stuff before hiring someone. Photographers will want to hold on to their rights simply to use the photos in their portfolio moving forward. This will never stop you or your family members from using them however they want.

Editing Timeline

The last thing you’ll want to think about is how long it will take to get the photos and videos back after the wedding. It’s important to get this information before hiring someone so that you aren’t strung along after the wedding day.

Of course, the photographer will need time to pare down and edit the photos for you. That said, it shouldn’t take more than a few weeks to get them back in your possession.

Find Your Dream Wedding Photographer in Dallas/Fort Worth

If you follow this guide, you’ll be able to find a great wedding photographer 100% of the time. There’s no denying that doing all of this due diligence can be time-consuming, but it’s also worth it to have great photos of your big day.

Couples in the Dallas-Fort Worth area can look no further than Total Events DFW to find high-quality photographers and videographers. To start planning your wedding, contact us, and we’ll tell you how we can help.

Every year, around 30,000 couples choose to celebrate their nuptials in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area. That’s thanks to abundant sunshine, unique wedding venues, and exciting places for wedding guests to make a weekend of any wedding.

If you’re considering a Texas wedding for your special day, there are a few ways you can make the most of it. Keep reading for everything you need to know about planning your big day. 

When Is a Good Time for a Texas Wedding?

Texas is a diverse state with eight different climatic regions, and average temperatures can vary by as much as 20° when comparing the north to the south. 

Dallas-Fort Worth is in the humid subtropical climate zone, which experiences high rainfall when compared to the rest of the state.

The spring and early fall are rainy seasons throughout Texas, and the summers are usually dry and hot. The fall months of October and November are the most popular months for weddings in Texas. 

Book Your Big Day Early

If you want to take advantage of the fantastic fall weather in the Lone Star state, you’ll need to book as soon as possible. During peak wedding season, wedding venues fill up quickly with happy couples, and wedding planners are at their busiest.

Dallas and Fort Worth boast numerous chic city venues, as well as laid-back outdoor spaces and intimate chapels. For your reception, you can choose between rooftops, spacious mansion lawns, and Art Deco halls.

It’s best to book your venue, vendors, and Dallas wedding planner at least a year in advance to make sure you get the wedding you envision.

Remember, this time of year is close to the festive season and coincides with football season, too. Make sure you send out a save the date as soon as possible to avoid your guests making prior vacation or sporting arrangements. 

If you’re going to invite guests from out-of-state, be sure to book provisionally book accommodation for them when you book your venue. 

Hire a Wedding Planner

It’s vital to work with a Texas wedding planner whether you’ve chosen Dallas for your destination wedding or if you live in the area.

A wedding planner helps you include all the finer details in your plans and can negotiate the best prices on everything you need for a successful event.

Working with a wedding planner doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a cookie-cutter wedding. They’ll happily help you create a unique wedding according to your preferences and budget.

Hiring a wedding planner takes most of the stress out of planning a wedding, allowing you to focus on the important things.

Wedding planner cost considerations pale in comparison to the money you’ll spend if you only remember to arrange some aspects of your wedding at the last minute.

Add Texas Flair to Your Dallas Wedding

Texas is a fun, friendly place, so embrace this in your wedding planning. There are several ways to tip your hat to awesome Texas style to create an unforgettable, enigmatic occasion.

Embrace the iconic fashions of Texas by incorporating special-occasion cowboy hats and boots into your outfits, your wedding theme, or gifts.

Other awesome Texas-style welcome gifts include:

• Topo Chico mineral water
• Mini bottles of barbecue sauce
• Texan treats, like Fritos and Snickers bars

When it comes to wedding food, you can’t beat BBQ or Tex-Mex to capture the true flavors of Texas. Pecan pie is an obvious choice for dessert, or you can provide a fire pit for marshmallow roasting or s’mores. 

If you prefer a more formal approach, your wedding planner will advise you on caterers who can craft a menu of seasonal local favorites. 

Some state-specialty cocktails and drinks include:

• Frozen margaritas
• Ranch water 
• Shiner Bock and Lone Star beers 

When choosing your flowers, stick to local varieties that thrive in the Dallas area. Some traditional wedding flowers will droop in the Texas heat. 

Your wedding planner can refer you to a florist that will help you create an impactful display for your event.

Practical Aspects of a Texas Wedding

There are a few less exciting things you’ll need to deal with when planning a Texas wedding. These are:

Filing for a Wedding License

When you receive your wedding license, you must wait three days before you get married, and you have 90 days to tie the knot. If you’re recently divorced, you must wait at least thirty days after finalizing your divorce before you can wed again.

If you miss your ninety-day deadline, you’ll need to file for a new license. 

You and your partner must file for your marriage license in person at the County Clerk’s office. You must bring identity documents, like a passport, visa, birth certificate, or driver’s license to prove you’re over 18.

A marriage license currently costs $75 in Dallas-Fort Worth for residents. If you live in another state, you’ll need to pay an additional $100.

Weather Considerations

It’s important to plan for a range of weather conditions when you get married in Dallas. Fall days are warm and pleasant, but the evenings can get chilly.

Providing fans, heating lamps, or shawls for your wedding guests is a nice touch to ensure their comfort whatever the weather brings. A good supply of bottled water is another nice touch.

Cold days are a rarity in Dallas. So, avoid heavy fabrics when planning your wedding outfits and advise your guests to do the same. 

Saying ”I Do” in Dallas

Dallas abounds with wonderful opportunities to create the wedding or your dreams. The city is home to both world-class venues and low-key hideaways perfect for an intimate ceremony.

The best way to discover your perfect venue, menu, and entertainment, is by working with an accomplished Dallas wedding planner.  

Get in touch right away to arrange the Texas wedding of your dreams.