Why Hiring a Wedding Planner is the Best Gift You Can Give Yourself

You’ve said “yes”. You’ve popped the champagne and now it’s time to begin the journey of planning your wedding day. Bring on the Pinterest boards, late night calls to your girl, Google searches, and a dozen open tabs while trying to find the perfect florist, venue, and caterer. Does this sound familiar? The ugly truth is, while wedding planning is one of the most exciting times in your life, it can also become one of the most stressful. Overwhelming may be a good word to sum it up. If this is you, or if you fear that this could be you, hiring a wedding planner may be the best gift you give yourself. Here is our WHY.

#01: Save your Sanity 

Let’s face it, life just doesn’t stop when you begin planning your wedding. Between work, life, and everything in between, adding planning your wedding day to your to-do list may make your life at capacity. It can honestly be like a second time job, working to research, juggle vendor communication, and budgeting. A professional wedding planner is able to step in and not only save your sanity, but help you handle all of the logistics. From managing timelines, to booking vendors, to being the “in-between” between your mother-in-law on the morning of the wedding… your planner will support you with it ALL. We always tell our clients or potential clients that we can do as little as you need to provide as much support as you need. We do it, so you don’t have to. You get to enjoy being engaged and the wedding planning process without being bogged down in all of the parts. 

#02: We Know the Industry IN and OUT

Your wedding will not be our first “rodeo”, so to speak. We’re almost like your personal GPS app. We’ve navigated this wedding road many times before. We’ve build strong relationships within the wedding planning industry and have built strong relationships with vendors we TRUST. We can not only recommend florists, photographers, and caterers who match your vision, but we know that we can count on them to bring your vision to life and sometimes we can even spark a deal. We know what to expect from this industry, trust us – we aren’t strangers to it. So let us handle it. 

#03: We Help you Stay ON budget

Oh - the dreaded budget. I don’t know if you’re this kind of person, but if you’re often like, oh we can wiggle a little. Or, I’ll just give up a few cups of coffee to adjust the budget .. If this is you - hire a wedding planner. It may sound counterintuitive, but hiring a planner can actually save you money. They know how to prioritize spending, avoid common budgeting mistakes, and negotiate with vendors on your behalf. Whether you’re planning a lavish affair or a cozy elopement, a planner ensures every dollar is used wisely.

#04: They Bring you Wedding Vision to Life 

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of your wedding since you were twelve – or maybe you’re not sure where to start. Either way, your planner is there to help you narrow and refine your ideas to create a cohesive aesthetic. We are able to help bring your vision to life, in a way that feels authentically you and your partner. We are your creative partners from start and finish. We specialize in creating inspiration boards and bringing your vision to life. We also know what vendors can support with bringing your vision to life. 

#05: We are Problem Solvers (so you don’t have to be)

Unexpected rain? Missing boutonnières? Vendor running late? Let’s be honest for a second – even with all the planning up to your big day, things happen. And sometimes, you can’t predict it. If you hire a planner, know that your planner has it handled. They’re quick thinkers with cool heads who are trained to troubleshoot without you ever needing to know something went wrong. Their job is to make everything look and feel effortless — no matter what’s happening behind the scenes. Consider us crisis management pros. 

#06: Peace of Mind

On your wedding day, the last thing you want is to be fielding questions or checking timelines. Your planner becomes the point person for everyone—vendors, guests, and even your wedding party. You get to be fully present, soaking in every moment with your partner and loved ones. One of the best perks of hiring a wedding planner is the peace of mind you get, knowing that everything is handled and you can just enjoy your wedding day. 

Hiring a wedding planner isn’t an indulgence—it’s an investment in your sanity, your celebration, and your memories. It allows you to hand off the stress and focus on what your wedding is truly about: love, joy, and the beginning of a beautiful journey together. So if you’re considering whether or not to hire a wedding planner, consider this: it’s the best gift you can give yourself—and one that will keep giving long after the last dance.

We’d love to talk about your journey and how we can best support you. If you’re looking, we’d love to sit down and chat with you. 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

Creating the Perfect Wedding Ceremony Backdrop to Say “I Do”

The moment you say “I do” is arguably the most meaningful part of your wedding day. At Elegant Affairs, we always remind our couples: no matter what happens, your ceremony is the heart of the celebration. It’s where promises are made, emotions run high, and lifelong memories begin. Naturally, all eyes—and cameras—will be on you during that moment, so why not create a stunning ceremony backdrop to frame it beautifully?

Your ceremony backdrop isn’t just a pretty detail. It sets the tone for your wedding day, complements your aesthetic, and creates a photo-worthy focal point during the most important moment of your celebration.

Whether you're envisioning a romantic floral arch, a minimalist modern structure, or something totally unique, this guide will help you plan the perfect backdrop for your vows.

Why Your Ceremony Backdrop Matters

Your ceremony backdrop does more than just look good—it frames the moment where your most cherished words are spoken and your first kiss as a married couple is captured. It brings your love story into focus and helps create a sense of intention and style from the very start.

Your wedding ceremony backdrop should:

• Reflect the overall theme and vibe of your wedding

• Add contrast and depth to your ceremony space

• Serve as a personalized focal point for guests and photographers

• Be reusable (we love when couples move it behind their sweetheart table!)

Whether you're scrolling Pinterest or chatting with your wedding planner, there are endless ways to design a backdrop that suits your venue, vision, and budget. But before diving into design ideas, let’s talk logistics.

Consider These Before You Choose a Backdrop

📍 Venue & Location

Your ceremony site will largely dictate what kind of backdrop works best. Outdoor spaces often benefit from arches or structures that frame the surroundings, while indoor venues may already have beautiful features to build around—like fireplaces, windows, or statement walls.

🎨 Wedding Theme & Color Palette

Let your overall design lead the way. For example:

• Boho: macramé, pampas grass, and natural wood

• Modern: clean lines, metal structures, and sleek finishes

• Classic/Romantic: lush florals, flowing draping, and soft hues

📸 The Full View

Think beyond just the altar. Use aisle markers like lanterns, petals, or candles to draw the eye forward. Layer with rugs, floral clusters, or trees to create a three-dimensional space. And always consider where your officiant and wedding party will stand—everyone needs room to breathe and move naturally.

Stunning Backdrop Ideas for Every Couple

🌸 Floral Arches

A timeless choice! From full arches blanketed in roses to asymmetrical designs with greenery and orchids, floral backdrops are romantic and universally flattering. Pro tip: opt for in-season blooms to keep your florals fresh and budget-friendly.

🔷 Geometric Frames

Modern couples, this one’s for you. Triangles, circles, hexagons, and squares bring a sleek, editorial feel to your ceremony. These shapes can be dressed up with florals, fabrics, or left bare for a bold, minimalist look. (Yes, DIY is an option too!)

🕊 Fabric Draping

Soft chiffon, tulle, or organza can transform a simple setting into a dreamy scene. Fabric works beautifully with arches, pergolas, or even trees. Light neutrals like ivory, blush, or champagne enhance the ethereal feel.

🌿 Nature as the Backdrop

If your venue already boasts an epic view—use it! Mountains, forests, vineyards, lakes, or cityscapes don’t need much embellishment. Sometimes less truly is more.

💫 Statement Walls

From living greenery walls and reclaimed wood to 1,000 paper cranes or bookshelves with meaning, statement walls are great for modern couples wanting something different. These can also double as a reception feature later on!

✨ Personalized Backdrops

Make it yours! Think custom neon signs, hand-lettered quotes, monograms, or wooden signage. This small detail packs a big emotional punch and creates a keepsake-worthy focal point.

Final Planning Tips

As with anything wedding-related, there are a few logistical considerations to keep in mind:

• Budget: Talk to your florist or rental vendor about pricing. Repurposing your ceremony décor later in the day is a savvy way to save.

• Setup time: Your backdrop should be installed well before guests arrive. Coordinate with your planner or floral designer to ensure everything is camera-ready.

• Photography angles: Do a walkthrough with your photographer or planner to see how the backdrop will photograph. Consider lighting and shadows too!

• Back-up plans: Outdoor weddings? Always have a weather contingency plan in place.

Frame Your Moment Beautifully

Your ceremony backdrop should feel like an extension of your love story. Whether it’s made of flowers, fabric, wood, or Mother Nature herself, it’s a way to visually honor your vows and create an unforgettable setting for the beginning of your forever.

This is your moment—make it as beautiful and personal as the promises you’ll make.

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

What You Need to Know About Rehearsal Dinners + Our Pro Tips

When it comes to planning a wedding, most couples put a lot of focus on the ceremony and reception—and rightfully so! It’s your wedding day, after all. But there’s another event that often gets overlooked in the early stages of planning: the rehearsal dinner.

This pre-wedding gathering sets the tone for your big weekend, brings your loved ones together, and gives you a chance to relax before the whirlwind begins. Whether you're just getting started or putting the final touches on your timeline, here’s what you need to know about the rehearsal dinner—plus our best planner-approved pro tips.

🎉 What Is a Rehearsal Dinner Anyway?

Traditionally held the night before the wedding, the rehearsal dinner comes after your ceremony walk-through. It’s an opportunity for your wedding party, immediate family, and sometimes out-of-town guests to gather in a more casual, intimate setting before the main event.

Think: relaxed vibes, delicious food, heartfelt toasts, and quality time with the people who matter most. It's also a chance for you and your partner to say thank you to everyone who's supported your journey.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Hosts the Rehearsal Dinner?

Historically, the groom’s parents hosted and paid for the rehearsal dinner—especially if the bride’s family was covering most of the wedding costs. But nowadays, anything goes. The dinner might be hosted by either set of parents, both families together, or the couple themselves (especially for destination weddings or smaller guest counts).

We’ve even seen couples host casual versions with just appetizers or tapas. The key is to talk with everyone involved early, set clear expectations, and agree on the budget. Transparency avoids confusion and keeps things drama-free.

✉️ Who Should Be Invited?

You don’t have to invite everyone on your guest list. At a minimum, we recommend including:

• Wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers, etc.)

• Immediate family members from both sides

• Officiant

• Plus-ones of the wedding party

If you have the flexibility and budget, it's thoughtful to include out-of-town guests or anyone who traveled a long way to celebrate with you. If you’re expecting a lot of travelers, consider combining your rehearsal dinner with a casual welcome party to include everyone without going overboard.

🥂 Where Should You Host It?

There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Your rehearsal dinner can be formal, casual, or somewhere in between. Some of our favorite ideas:

• Your go-to local restaurant

• A private dining room in a hotel

• Backyard or garden party

• Pavilion at a park or the beach

• Winery or local brewery

• Your own home

Choose a location that feels meaningful and is close to the ceremony site. You don’t want your guests stuck in traffic the night before the big day.

📝 What Should Happen at the Rehearsal Dinner?

Rehearsal dinners usually follow a relaxed structure. Here's a basic flow:

1. Ceremony Rehearsal: Takes about 30–45 minutes.

2. Arrival + Mingling: Allow time for greetings and drinks.

3. Dinner is Served: Whether it’s buffet, plated, or family-style.

4. Toasts + Speeches: Informal, but meaningful.

5. Gifts + Thank-Yous: Optional but always appreciated.

6. Open Time: Connect, laugh, enjoy the evening.

🎤 Do We Have to Toast?

Short answer: no. But it’s a beautiful time to speak from the heart.

If you do open the floor, we recommend the following toast order:

• The hosts (whoever is paying for the dinner)

• The couple

• Additional guests who want to share a few words

Encourage speakers to keep toasts under 5 minutes. Having a loose order ahead of time keeps things moving and avoids awkward silences or overlap.

✨ Should We Decorate?

You don’t need to go over the top. The venue’s ambience is often enough—but adding a few simple, thoughtful touches can make the space feel extra special.

Consider:

• String lights or candles

• Small floral arrangements

• Custom signage

• A photo display of your relationship

The key? Keep it cozy, personal, and stress-free.

💡 Final Thoughts:

The rehearsal dinner isn’t just a formality—it’s the heartfelt beginning of your wedding weekend. It sets the tone, helps guests feel welcomed, and gives you space to breathe, connect, and soak in the love before the main event.

So plan it with intention, lean into gratitude, and don’t forget to enjoy the moment. It may become one of your favorite memories from the whole weekend.

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.