Answers to Brides Most Frequently Asked Questions

Today is day 5 of us answering your most frequently asked questions! Here are questions 7 and 8.

Question 7: What Should I Know About Venue Contracts?
First and foremost, make sure you know what time set up can begin and what time you need to be out by at the end of the night. Are there additional charges like coat check or restroom attendants? Does the venue require that you use exclusive vendors? Is gratuity built into the contract? Is the venue insured? Get a detailed list of all items included in the contract, such as tables and chairs, linens, staging, extra tables needed for gifts/cake/escort cards/favors, dance floor, sound equipment for a ceremony. If a full bar is part of the contract, find out what is included and if accompaniments are part of the bar. Find out what the payment schedule is and when you need to have your final head count turned in.

Photo Credit: 513 photography

Question 8: Is a Seating Chart or Escort Cards Necessary?
Absolutely! This will ensure a smoother transition from cocktail hour to dinner, when your guests are being seated. It also alleviates any awkwardness that may occur if guests aren't sure where to go when there is no seating chart. It also is a time saver when having assigned seating by tables because guests know exactly where to go.

Photo Credit: Jeff Schaefer Photography

Comments

Does a "Day-Of Coordinator" only show up on the wedding day?

"I've done all my own planning and want a "day-of" coordinator but can't find one who will show up on the wedding day only ! Why?" There's probably a lot of confusion amongst engaged couples because of the term "day-of" coordinator. If you end up speaking to someone who says they will only show up on the wedding day and save you lots of money because of it, please stay clear of them! Many wedding planners may label their coordination as "day-of" wedding coordination, but there is far more involved than just showing up on the wedding day when it comes to a professional wedding planner who knows what she/he is doing. Photo Credit: Estes Images Here are some reasons why a wedding coordinator shouldn't show up only on the wedding day: Many planners begin their coordination services 4-8 weeks out because many venues request the wedding day timeline one month prior. A 1 1/2 to 2 hour timeline meeting typically kicks off

A Venue Coordinator vs. A Wedding Coordinator

Unfortunately, things haven't changed much in the wedding industry regarding the confusion between a venue coordinator and a wedding coordinator. Couples still seem very confused between these two roles and end up not hiring a wedding coordinator after speaking with their venue. Their day ends up in disappointment because they assumed they would have that one, key person to go to and rely on for their entire wedding day. Instead, they have to wait until they walk through their venue doors to receive some coordination by their venue coordinator or banquet captain, who's primary responsibility is to the get the meal out on time and at an ideal temperature. Photo Credit: Leppert Photography So, when you begin visiting venues and you learn that a venue has an event coordinator who tells you that you do not need to hire a wedding coordinator/planner, ask them if they will show up at the hotel while you and your girls are getting ready earlier in the day. Ask if they will be w

Unique Ideas for Escort Cards

Your wedding guests have all joined together to celebrate your big day, however, at your reception, they will certainly want to be seated at times, such as when they enjoy their meal, or to take a break from the dancing. Oftentimes, guests find their seats from a place card, displaying their table number, however, the plain and simple cardstock place cards can be a bit boring for some brides, who would rather bring a unique and creative approach to their elements of décor. Because your place cards play an important role on your wedding day, you should consider creating them to be a prominent element of décor, and stand out in a personalized way. Here are a few fun ideas that are sure to catch yours guests attention! · Succulents. Everyone loves flowers, however, they can be hard to maintain, but, if you choose succulents to create your escort cards within, you can ensure that the choice will be pleasing to all of your wedding guests. Succulents offer a unique and

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