What To Do (& Not To Do) When Wedding Planning in 2023
Congratulations on your engagement! Wedding planning is an exciting process, but it’s also filled to the brim with stressors and big (expensive) choices. The good news is that after the pandemic, all of the wedding planning rules were thrown out the window! Couples have the freedom, now more than ever, to make their day their own. Planning a wedding in 2023 is all about doing what will make you and your partner the happiest on your day, no matter what that may look like.
Because the wedding landscape has changed so drastically in the last few years, we put together a list of some do’s and don’ts for wedding planning in 2023 to keep you on the right track.
Do: Book vendors far in advance
After two long years of weddings getting postponed, wedding vendors are feeling the pressure. Florists, bakers, and even wedding venues are working overtime to fit three years’ worth of weddings into one season. Be patient as you look for vendors, and do yourself a favor by beginning the search well in advance in order to secure the vendor you like on the date you want.
Don't: Sign contracts before reading them
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we never know what might derail our plans. Many service contracts now include clauses for situations out of your control, like a pandemic, so be sure to read the agreement through to fully understand the cancellation policy. It’s nice to think that nothing could derail your special day, but unfortunately, none of us can predict the future. Protect yourself from potentially losing a deposit (and much more) by reading through your contracts and making sure you understand all of the policies before you sign.
Do: Invest in photography and videography
You want your important day to last forever. The only way to do this is by capturing it forever in photos and videos. Research local photographers and videographers to choose ones that match your aesthetic. Look through their portfolio, paying attention to the style of their shooting and editing so that you’ll love your photos and videos for years - and decades - to come. It can be tempting to cut your budget in this area, but the photos and videos from your special day help you remember this day for the rest of your life. If you need to choose, prioritize these services over things like flowers, cake, and drinks. You may not remember what your centerpieces looked like in 20 years, but you will remember your favorite wedding photo and cherish being able to watch your wedding video.
Don't: Follow traditions you don't connect with
Another thing the pandemic taught the wedding industry is that there is no true “right way” to throw a wedding. Wedding rules are a thing of the past! Want to have a flower puppy instead of a flower girl? Want to walk down the aisle on your own? Want to wear a hot pink dress instead of a white one? Go for it! Your wedding is about celebrating you and your partner, so it should represent the two of you. If certain traditions or expectations don’t align with your values or your vision for your day, then don’t feel pressured to include them. You have the power to choose what you do and do not do!
Do: Book with Belle Hills
The Barn at Belle Hills is one of the fastest-growing wedding venues in Northern Kentucky, and we want to help you make your dream wedding a reality! Browse our gallery and take advantage of our digital floorplan designer to help you with your wedding planning. Contact us to tour our gorgeous barn venue in person! We’re proudly located in Crittenden, KY and serve the greater Northern Kentucky area.
