I want you to think of it as the general outline for your planning actions. Your wedding vision is a tool that you’ll use over and over, to bring you back to center; especially when details and decision making begin to overwhelm you.
I call it your baseline; the root from which all of your additional wedding decisions will grow.
Your wedding vision is a compilation of the basic details, photos, colors, adjectives and/or experiences that will represent and/or illustrate the fundamental framework for your plans.
Determining the who, what, when, where & why of your wedding is the first step in collaborating with your fiancé to get on the same page about your plans.
And Yes…a wedding vision comes before you book or buy a single thing.
Capturing your vision can take many forms. It can be written or turned into a more creative visual collection, often referred to as a vision or mood board.
Your wedding vision is the cohesive outline to your wedding plans; setting the tone for your budget, vendors, and the elements & details you will provide.
Either way, your wedding vision will help you keep your planning priorities at the forefront of your decisions and actions.
Baseline is one of the foundational steps in dramatically lessening the opportunity for miscommunication about your wedding plans between you, your fiancé, and your families.
If you want to go from overwhelmed to under control establishing your wedding baseline is your best bet.
And you can bring more gems like this directly to your inbox by joining our free 1-Minute Wedding Planner email series. Sign up today and get one minute reads and videos delivered directly to your inbox each Monday.
I’ve recently read 2 posts on LinkedIn. #1, a couple’s perspective about celebrating “gratitude” as they were invited and attended the celebration of a dear friend’s wedding. It was a beautiful, heart-felt post about what being invited meant to them, as well as, all the things the experience reminded them to be grateful for.
Beautiful, right?
The second post was about the cost & frustration of the rudeness of people…guests in particular, that RSVP, then don’t show up.
And friends…I have thoughts. I think its time to challenge the way in which we approach choosing & inviting people to be our guests.
Don’t get me wrong, I get it…how many guests you’ll expect sets the tone for venue, spending, and so much more. So I know just how monumental it can feel to get your guest list just right.
But I also recognize that the way we seem to be conditioned to inviting people at all has shifted from the spirit of generous and warm reception.
I always encourage my clients to invite the people who matter. Yet have come to learn how difficult a task that can be for some- how to determine who matters.
So, if you’re stuck starting any guest list, I want you to consider this…start by only writing down the names that follow my “Don’t Care” Questionnaire method.
I think you’ll find drafting your guest list much easier if you start with the names that don’t care what you wear, don’t care what you serve, don’t care what you gift, don’t care what color the napkins are or how they are folded. If you were getting married in a brown paper bag, they would be delighted to celebrate with the same love, energy, and enthusiasm.
Start here…and see how you feel.
When you are inviting the people with substance in your life…I mean really matter. Then should they have to cancel, their absence is felt; not based on the cost of their meal but with an understanding that life happens and some things can’t be avoided. And it likely wasn’t an easy decision to have to bow out in the 9th hour.
Whatever your next celebration, wedding, shower, graduation, or retirement…fill you guest list with the people that spark joy, kindness, community and fellowship; rather than the people that will feel insulted if you don’t invite them.
You said “YES” as or to a military service member, now what?
Relax! You decide. Military traditions that can be a part of weddings, don’t automatically have to be a part of yours. You choose how much military influence is reflected in your day, if any at all.
Hey, I want you to remember that you have options.
There are some of you that love the idea of a patriotic nod to building a life of selfless service together; and there are others that don’t want the uniform to be their only identity, and you’ll opt out of those few standard traditions. And either is acceptable. So I challenge you to really think about it and then choose what’s right for you.
Listen, your planning process is likely to look like no one else’s. Military couples often have a level of uncertainty and unpredictability than traditional couples don’t experience. So don’t get stuck here.
Make a decision and keep moving forward.
So what does it mean to plan a military wedding? It just means, there is at least 1 service member saying “I Do”.
That’s it. How you choose to acknowledge and/or reflect that is up to you.
If you want to know what “military traditions” are considered wedding worthy? Head over on over to our 1-minute read on common military wedding traditions.
And if you find yourself stuck, overwhelmed or even burned out before you begin…bring more 1-minute reads & videos directly to your inbox to streamline your plans in a way that doesn’t feel like a second job…
Before you go getting all excited at the thought of pumpkin spice and fall wedding inspiration boards; this is your gentle reminder that it’s still summer. Today, I want to encourage and empower you to find your vision and version of Forever After with this one minute wedding planning {OMWP} tip.
Summer weddings are beautiful and make for some of the most “wow” worthy photos. But outdoor summer events are literally a HOT ticket for your guests.
Let’s be honest, you know what you are asking of your guests… wear their best threads, show up 30 minutes early, sit…and wait…in the blistering heat…for you.
Hosting with kindness and consideration will have you explore every option to ensure your guests are comfortable.
And if you are committed to an outdoor celebration, here’s a thought– consider a ceremony beverage bar. Whether you offer cocktails, mocktails, or just chilled bottles of water, it’ll go a long way in making guests feel welcomed, while helping them to stay hydrated and beat the heat waiting for the festivities to begin.
Adding a beverage bar to your ceremony doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider self-serve dispensers filled with infused waters or bright colored teas, punch, or sangrias.
Host and be hosted well this summer!
Was this helpful? Remember to like, follow, share, and save to keep connected and social with me. See you next time.
Let’s face it, we are all a little short on time; trying to do more with less and trying to get more done in less time. Well I’d like to welcome you to the One Minute Wedding Planner. One minute reads on our blog and one minute reels on our social platforms to help you learn how to host and be hosted well, especially when you only have a minute to spare.
Let’s go ahead and address the elephant in the room. This format won’t be for everyone, and it’s alright with me (yes, I sang that in my Janet Jackson voice).
Listen, if you’ve been dreaming of your wedding day since you were 8…probably isn’t the space for you. If you have a six figure budget…probably not the way you’ll spend your time.
But if you are a busy, working couple and life is full right now, boy did you hit the jackpot. You are already short on time and the capacity to plan. You don’t want to spend all of your nights & weekends trying to figure things out. You really want things to be simple and for things to make sense.
If you’ve been saying to yourself, it can’t be this complicated; then, you’re right! And there aren’t many checklists that’ll tell you differently. That’s the problem I’m looking to solve.
If you’re short on time and need the wedding planning process broken down into bite sized pieces. Maybe, just, maybe this is the place for you.
Are you down to follow along for more? Well, I’m glad to have you.
Marijuana has undergone a major make-over in recent years. No longer a taboo stigma, the use of marijuana products are now commonly promoted as an alternative to anxiety, stress, and other medical conditions.
Its elevation in social acceptability has the popular plant on the rise as the “hot” experience for social gatherings, dinner parties and yes, even weddings. The interest to creatively incorporate it into drinks, bites, desserts, décor, and favors, continues to increase.
After learning about a shocking arrest where a bride and caterer were charged with the lacing of guests’ food at a wedding…without guest knowledge. I couldn’t believe it!
Needless to say, I felt it high time (pun intended) to address a few best practices when adding the edibles experience to your event.
Now, you should know, I am not a cannabis expert; in any way. Truthfully, I’ve never tried it, in any form. Nor have I coordinated an event with it, just yet.
I am, however, an events and etiquette expert. And there are guidelines and best practices when hosting anyone that apply to this unique experience as well.
Let’s agree that it is unacceptable to drug anyone. No matter your personal stance on drugs and/or alcohol use, you are not allowed to make that choice or decision for someone else.
What other rules can you expect to follow? Let’s talk about a few.
It must be legal in your state. The use of marijuana, products and oils are not legal everywhere. Be certain to know and understand the state laws you must abide by wherever you are hosting a gathering.
Work with experts. There is a safety and a science to cooking, serving, and ingesting cannabis products. Experts will offer you options and help you make wise decisions that will provide a great experience, while keeping you and your guests safe. Do your research to find experienced vendors for catering, bartending, and “bud”tending.
Make it known. Make sure elements that contain cannabis are marked clearly for your guests. Here’s why. Your guests have lives outside of your celebration…with JOBS being at the top of that list. It being legal in the state doesn’t make it legal on everyone’s job; not to mention other medical conditions or addictions unbeknownst to you. Be sure to include clear signage allowing you protection and guests the choice to partake or not.
Offer Alternatives. If you have a mixed crowd, be sure to provide food and beverages that are cannabis free. Much like everything else, everyone doesn’t do everything. Everyone doesn’t drink alcohol, eat meat, etc. so alternative options will be much appreciated. This allows for all guests to be included regardless of personal preference.
Crowd Control. When creating your guests list, be sure to strongly consider whether or not children or anyone under the legal participation age is welcome. This decision will naturally help you determine what kind of set-up and support you’ll need with accessibility and availability during your event.
Think it Through. Be sure to consider if additional safety and security measures are needed. Should you provide a make your selections limited, establish a cut off time (much like a bar), or provide transportation for guests to travel safely to and from your event. Think through the entire experience for yourself and your guests. It will make a much more enjoyable experience for all involved.
Choosing a “higher” celebration experience is your prerogative. I will always encourage you to be a courteous & considerate host/hostess when combining your vision and your guest experience into a delightful experience for all.
What if I could tell you the secret to melt away all of your stress & anxiety about planning your wedding?
I mean, can you imagine a planning process where you ditched the overwhelm of trying to meet the expectations of others?
How do you think it would feel to breathe; only focusing on choosing your favorite things to share with your favorite people?
It’s totally possible…only no one is sharing it with you in a way you can hear it.
When that ring slides on your finger, instantly, you feel ushered along into a noisy wedding world with tons to look at, much to digest and what feels like an infinite number decisions (with an equal amount of micro decisions to match). Am I right?
I stand firm in 2 beliefs. One, weddings shouldn’t be THIS challenging. They should not take over your life.
And two, your planning season is also your greatest marriage preparation season. You should have time for both!
How do you fit in time to deepen your relationships with your spouse; when its taking everything to keep your head above water, trying to communicate and collaborate about colors, cake and ceremony décor?
It feels like a constant uphill battle. But today, you’re in luck.
You deserve a quick win. Something to help you ease your mind and put all the “wedding things” into context for you to plan and enjoy your journey to Forever After.
So right here, right now inhale…now exhale and take it in slow; the 4 things NO wedding can do without.
You– that’s right, this thing can’t happen without a healthy you. Your wedding needs you healthy, happy, and in harmony with your day.
Your Fiancé– you’ll need your co-star. Your person. Your chosen partner to do this unpredictable production of life with. Willing and ready to say I Do Too!
Your License– you’ll need the legal documents that binds this whole things together. Paperwork is paramount. It’s the way to make your celebration legally recognized. Be sure to check your state/county for requirements.
Your Officiant– more than a figurehead, an officiant, clergy, celebrant, or officer of the court must hear both parties willingly enter into the commitment of marriage.
So here’s the truth, cutting through the overwhelm– you don’t and won’t need everything.
Now, it’s up to you to determine what’s important enough to add on for your day; keeping in mind that only 4 things are required.
That is all that is required. Now, hopefully, the simplicity of this list helps you to take a breath and realize…EVERYTHING else is a bonus!
Those are the facts. Did you notice, not even rings are required? So, listen, you’ve got this.
Take your time and choose what feels good for you.
And hey, should you still feel stuck, in knowing where to start and what to do, consider streamlining your wedding plans in a single day. Ask about our one day wedding plan that helps busy, working couples, like you, ditch overwhelm to create a shared vision, establish wedding boundaries, understand your budget, and make key decisions all in a single day.
Get more done in less time, so you can get back to the life you love.
Proud wife coming through. That’s right. My hubby has worked hard managing his military career and working towards his EDS, post graduate degree. And baby, we made it!!! Graduating with honors. Needless to say, I am already working on how we’ll celebrate. That’s right, I grabbed my laptop and headed to ouronline storeto start browsing announcements and my personal favorite…custom napkins.
I have to look ahead because the husband isn’t always a big fuss kind of guy. So I have to pull together my vision board and allow said board to be edited…because (pouting) it’s not my day. But friends, I found these fun beauties…placemats. Aren’t they the cutest? I’m telling you, it’s the little things.
I’m just saying, with physical and mandated distances, we likely won’t be able to celebrate with family but it doesn’t mean we won’t be celebrating. Now, with that said, I do not see the Mr. agreeing to these for himself. But they have given me a great idea.
Even in our current climate, these would be darling at a distanced picnic or even shared with close family so you can virtually set the table together in celebration. Plus it’s a crazy adorable way to further highlight and shout out your grad for their accomplishment, hard work and resiliency.
Listen, we’re still surviving a pandemic. Many of us continue to be a bit starved for meaningful personal connection and fellowship. All the more reason to give every positive thing the full happy dance it deserves. Get creative and use the resources you have available to you.
If you are looking for a few ideas or you are wanting to get a jump on your shopping, take a peek at our online shop for graduation staples:
Your grad deserves to feel like a big deal. Make a way to let him/her shine. You’ve got this. And hey, these are easy things that can be delivered right to your door. So get out those baby pictures and school portrait. Grab your favorite beverage and head down memory lane while creating something that is one of a kind.
Having trouble pulling together your plans? I’m always just a click away. Just schedule an Ask Ambiance consult to pick my brain and get answers to the questions keeping you up at night.
If you are new around here hey friend! I’m Michelle the heart at the helm of Ambiance Special Events LLC. This is me, trying not to look awkward taking pictures of myself walking along the beach. LOL. Let’s just say I am not an in front of the camera kind of girl. A bonus for you, as my primary role is helping you pull together and host successful special events. I’m one woman on a mission to help you celebrate every moment that matters to you, big and small.
I’m just a Southern girl sharing my love of hospitality and etiquette with people, just like you, looking to celebrate the moments of life. From our Nations Capital to the US Virgin Islands, I get to do the coolest things, in the coolest places, with the coolest people from all walks of life. I am here to help you find clarity and quiet the calm in what can be a noisy, super charged, creative events world.
Why do this?
Because I love bringing order to the moving parts of an event.
Because I love a little pomp and circumstance.
Because you deserve to show up, engage, and experience your celebration.
Because life is short and celebrating is TOTALLY worth it!
I hope you’ll join this journey of crazy stories, hearty laughs, cute couples, pitfalls to avoid, sneak peeks and behind the scenes looks. Did I mention I’m a military spouse and mom? Family is a big part of my life, so you can also count on connecting on love, marriage and parenting too.
Most importantly, you should remember:
I love to laugh.
Sweets are my soulmate {I dance a little, like a 2 year old, when I eat}.
There is NO such thing as a bridezilla; only naturally nasty people.
Perfection is a 10 letter word for disaster!
That’s it. That’s me in a nutshell. Just out here doing my best to use my gifts to bring a little more happy into the world. So tell me, what’s next for you? What will you celebrate next? A business birthday, a baby, a promotion, engagement, wedding, retirement? Don’t be shy, we’re friends, and friend, it’ll help me shape what kind of inspiration and encouragement to send your way.
When the pressures of planning feel like they are taking over your life, it’s ok to take a step back.
When every conversation, every day is about menus, seating, and/or décor, It’s time to press pause.
When you can’t find the strength to politely answer one more questions about the day, burn out will soon come knocking.
This is just your friendly reminder to take a break & breathe.
Friends, I can’t stress this enough. It is incredibly important to set boundaries. You deserve to continue living and loving your life, while planning any event. I’m telling you, you’ve got this! You are doing all the things and checking all of the blocks. And friend, I want to remind you that you are the biggest block of all.
Listen, as we continue to stumble through these uncertain time, remember that your wellness and well-being is a top priority. So be generous and kind with yourself. It’s ok to not have more accomplished but beating yourself up, won’t make magic. Try allotting space and time for your mind to rest, your energy to recharge, and your creativity to reset.
You can do this! And you can visit me here, on the beautiful beaches of St. Croix, as often as you’d like as a reminder.
