Option Two: Hire a Professional

If your budget allows for it, hiring a professional to coordinate all of the aspects of your special day may be a good choice. A good wedding planner will have it down to a science and make it a breeze for you. They know the ins- and outs- of etiquette, the best venues, all the great local vendors, etc. They will be there to keep a check on everything on your big day and make sure all is well. They will be prepared for the worst and make sure you see only the best! A big plus is that there is a lot less leg work and pressure for you with this option, but your budget will take quite a hit for it. You may also feel a bit disconnected from your wedding if you are not used to being a passive participant in events. The best way to get a feel for your preference for (or against) this option is to get out and meet the planners available to you. Many larger venues offer on-site planning services (for a fee, of course!), but it is also a good idea to meet other wedding professionals in your area. I very strongly recommend looking at the local wedding planners if you are having a destination wedding, even if you are familiar with the area. It will be a lot of work to coordinate a wedding and reception long-distance without the help of an “insider”!

Option Three: Hybrid

Did you know there would be a third option? Some brides don’t realize that many wedding professionals will be as involved or uninvolved in the planning details per your request. It can be a great compromise to have a professional at hand to help you with coordination and making sure all of your bases are covered, but to allow you to take complete control of the items that you are capable of or take very personally. This option can also be a bit easier on the budget, since the wedding professional is having to invest less time in your event. Again, balance out your options and your goals to help you make a decision. Whatever you decide, cherish every moment of your planning and the resulting event. Regardless of how your wedding is planned, keep in mind that in the end you’ll be married to the man you love and who loves you back!