One of the first parts of the wedding planning process is booking the venue. We are pleased that you have chosen to spend your special day at The Barn at Creek’s Bend, and we are excited to celebrate with you. Our venue is a renovated barn from 1891 that is charming, elegant and makes a naturally stunning setting for a special event like a wedding.
There are many other things that will need to be taken care of before your wedding. Below are some of our wedding planning tips you can use to guide your decisions.
1. Find a Day-Of Coordinator
Hiring a day-of coordinator can be one of the best things a bride does to prepare for her wedding day. That’s why we require that all weddings in our venue have one. A day-of coordinator will help you take care of details and make sure your wedding day goes smoothly. They will be your point of contact for your vendors and can fix any mishaps that happen the day of. That way, you can enjoy your wedding day without having to tend to the small details.
2. Purchase or Rent Your Wedding Formalwear
Purchasing the formalwear for your wedding is a crucial part of the planning process. You can likely rent tuxes for the groom and groomsmen, but it is often easier to buy your bridal gown and bridesmaid dresses. Be sure to allow time to shop for these items since you may need to visit multiple locations to find your perfect match. You also want to be sure you have time to get them tailored for the ideal fit.
3. Create a Registry
A registry will let your guests know what items you and your spouse need to start your lives together. Guests appreciate knowing what you need, so they don’t buy you something you don’t want or already have. If you change your mind about an item in your registry or think of other ideas, the registry can always be edited.
4. Pick a Wedding Hashtag
The popularity of social media created the use of the wedding hashtag, which often uses the married last name to create a unique phrase. Pictures or details about the wedding that are posted on social media can use this hashtag. This allows you to highlight elements of your wedding for family and friends, see other people’s posts about your wedding and get everyone excited about the celebration.
5. Book Any Other Vendors You Need
The Barn at Creek’s Bend can offer a list of suggested vendors for catering. But, you will need to consider if you want other services at your wedding. Plan time to research and review different vendors for each category. For hair and makeup, you may want to do a trial to make sure you are satisfied. Once you decide which vendors you want, we recommend booking them as early as possible. Some services you may want to reserve are:
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Florist
- Musician/Band (for the ceremony and reception)
- Officiant
- Cake baker
- Travel agent (for the honeymoon)
- Hair and makeup stylist
6. Finalize Your Guest List
Now is the perfect time to finalize your guest list. The Barn at Creek’s Bend has seating for over 300 guests, indoor and outdoor.
7. Send Save-The-Date Cards to Your Guests
A save-the-date card is sent out ahead of the formal wedding invitation, often eight to 12 months in advance. It allows your guests to block off that day on their calendar so they will be able to attend. Give the date and location, including the city and state.
8. Plan the Rehearsal Dinner
The rehearsal dinner takes place after the wedding rehearsal, which is usually the night before the wedding day. You can invite your family, friends, wedding party and anyone else you’d like to have celebrate with you and your partner. Book the venue and decide who is paying as soon as possible.
9. Plan the Honeymoon
It is worth putting thought and effort into your honeymoon. It will be your first vacation as a married couple, and it gives you a chance to relax after the chaos of the big day. It will also likely be a trip you’ll always remember. Once you have decided on your location, book your lodging and plan things to do once you arrive.
10. Attend All Your Pre-Wedding Parties
This includes your engagement party, wedding shower and bachelorette party. It is often up to others to plan these events, but they are still an important part of celebrating one of the happiest times of your and your partner’s life.
11. Send out the Invitations
Once all of the details come together for your wedding at The Barn at Creek’s Bend, send out invitations to let your guests know of the official times and details and give them a chance to RSVP.
12. Buy the Wedding Bands
You will want to put some time and thought into picking out your wedding bands. They will likely be the most important, and valuable, piece of jewelry you ever own. There are many options on the market, so choose one that reflects your style and personality.
13. Get Your Marriage License
The marriage license is what makes you and your spouse legally married, so don’t neglect this essential step in the planning process.
The Barn at Creek’s Bend Will Make Your Wedding Day Special
The Barn at Creek’s Bend is a historic, elegant venue that provides a beautiful backdrop for weddings. Our space will accommodate all of your needs and make your big day truly memorable. Visit our main page to learn more.