Let's Be Friends: How to Introduce your Wedding Party to Each Other 

How did you select your wedding party? Choosing your wedding party is a carefully crafted task. You want to choose people who are near and dear to you and will be an overall support throughout the wedding planning process. Many brides and grooms select friends and family members to be a part of their wedding party. These individuals may reflect the specific times in the couples’ lives. One of the biggest questions they may have is, “how do we get everyone to get along?” Many times, members of the wedding party do not know each other from the get go. Or perhaps a few of your wedding party members may have close bonds. Regardless of the bonds between one another, it is so important to create a team with your wedding party. Now, personally speaking, I’ve been a bridesmaid more times than I can count. Some of these weddings, I’ve known all of the bridesmaids and groomsmen, others’ I’ve felt like the outlier. In both experiences, I realized that it is vital to feel accepted and a part of the wedding party. So, today we’re going to dive into ways you can not only introduce your wedding party to each other, but create a lifelong bond. 

Create a Space for the Initial Meet and Greet 

Once you’ve decided who will be a part of your wedding party, it’s time to think about your initial get together! We know that bridesmaids may live near and far, but inviting everyone to a luncheon or a dinner party is a fabulous way to get everyone together to meet and greet. You can team up with your partner and create a get together with your whole wedding party or separate it by bride and groom. Now, for the wedding party members that are out of town or even across the country, you want to make sure you include them at this time. Whether you set up a facetime call during the meet and greet event, or include them in the invite – you never want anyone to feel left out of wedding party activities. 

Communication is Key!

After everyone has met one another and puts a face to a name, create a way to communicate effectively with your wedding party. You can create different group chats as a way to keep communication flowing and to ensure that everyone is informed of wedding day information. This is a great way for everyone to discuss ideas, concerns, and learn about details. As a rule of thumb, be sure to include everyone in messaging including attire, wedding details, and bachelorette or bridal party information etc. Be open and honest with your communication and remember it is okay to set norms with communication! 

Maid/Matron of Honor & Best Man 

Your maid/matron of honor and your best man are there to help you! You want to utilize these people to head some of the communication front. Their job is not only to support you with wedding planning and support on the wedding day, but to support your wedding party throughout the process. It is more than okay to give them tasks to keep your wedding party informed and communication up and running. In addition, they can create and invite the wedding party to any events that may be necessary, including dress shopping, fittings, or any bonding events that you want to occur. Encouraging your wedding party to be engaged throughout the process will help bring your wedding party together and from positive relationships. 

Bachelorette & Bachelor Party

This is one of the most traditional ways for members of the wedding party to gather and form friendships or bonds prior to your big day! Typically your maid/matron of honor and best man plan the bachelorette and bachelor party. But, this is a great way to get other members of the party involved and share the financial load. Encourage collaboration when building these events and find something that each individual person can be in charge of or work on. Including all members of the wedding party and finding mutual grounds for members that must travel is important. Hint - hint, we love ourselves a destination party. Use this time as bonding for the party and of course, to celebrate the love we have for the bride and groom. 

Wedding processes can be stressful, but it can also be a time to make new friends and create lifelong memories or bonds. As you select your wedding party, think about ways to keep each individual engaged and special throughout the process. They are your support system, your go to guys and gals – and you want to create an inclusive AND enjoyable experience for all. Be sure to host an initial meet and greet so everyone can meet one another. This allows your loved ones to meet each other and begin building friendships with one another. Always keep your communication fluid and accessible to all! Creating a group “central” messaging system is the best way to include all members and keep everyone up to date. As planning begins, include all members of your party, including the gals/guys that live out of town. Most importantly, enjoy your wedding party and create long, lasting memories with them. These are your people, so celebrate them too. 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 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.

Start Planning Your 2024 Wedding

How to start planning your 2024 wedding.

You’re a new bride and the big question is, should you get married in 2023 or 2024? We’re just about to embark on the fall 2023 wedding season. So, we get that planning a wedding for what’s left in 2023 may cause a little bit of panic. Maybe you want a longer timeline and are thinking of planning your nuptials for 2024. Whether you want to plan your wedding for 2023 or 2024, Elegant Affairs is here for you. Choosing your date is ultimately up to you – and we’re here for it. But, today we’re going to talk about embarking on your planning journey. So, if you’re a potential 2024 bride or groom – this one's for you. (And hey, don’t think we’ve forgotten about our 2023 brides – whether you’ve set the date or want to set a date – chat with a member of our Elegant Affairs team.) 

STEP 1: SAY YES TO A PLANNER AND VENUE

Alright, so if you’re a 2024 bride, you’ve got some time to work with. If you’re newly engaged, our first step to planning your wedding is to book your wedding planner. Okay - yes, we know - we work in the industry but we cannot stress enough the importance of hiring a wedding planner. If you’re on the fence, set up a consultation to discuss your goals for your wedding day and how a wedding planner can help you. Planners are your right hand gal(s) or guy(s). They are with you every step of the planning and right by your side on your wedding day. Once you’ve booked, or atleast met with a planner it’s time to book your venue. Narrow down a few dates that fit within your calendar. It’s vital to book your venue first, because your venue will speak towards your future design decisions. So, create that budget, find a venue that fits within your budget. As you select your venue, be sure you find one that fits your potential guest list. Your venue size will determine how many people can celebrate your wedding day. 

STEP 2: FIND & BOOK YOUR CATERER & PHOTOGRAPHER 

After you’ve selected and booked your planner and venue, it’s vital to start looking for your caterer. Talk to your wedding planner, as they have a network of preferred vendors that you can choose. You also want to discuss with your venue if they have required or preferred caterers. Don’t be afraid to set up tastings, ask for seasonal menus, and research all the prices. You want to make sure that you’ve selected a caterer that not only fits your tastes, but your budget too. You will spend a large chunk of your wedding budget on your caterer, so take you time with selecting the right one. After you’ve selected your caterer, the last large piece of your budget is your photographer. We cannot stress this enough – hire a professional and look at their portfolio. Stay off of facebook groups, don’t ask a family friend. One of the biggest regrets couples have is not spending their money on the right photographer. Decide what vision you have for your photos and any aesthetic you may have. Read reviews, stalk their socials and find a photographer that fits your vision and your aesthetic before you book. The last thing we want to see is clients who are unhappy with their photos. 

STEP 3: BOOK YOUR ENTERTAINMENT 

Whether you want a live band or a DJ you need some sort of entertainment. Your wedding is truly a celebration. Think carefully about your guest list and what kind of entertainment you’ll want at your ceremony and reception. Meet with various entertainers or DJs and discuss your wants and needs. Don’t forget to ask about uplighting, what is included, and confirm that they are available for your wedding date. Read their reviews and ensure that the quality of their service fits within your budget and your needs.

STEP 4: FINALLY, YOU CAN SAY YES TO YOUR DRESS

You’ve selected your venue, which will set your vision for your nuptials. It’s now time to say yes, to your dress. Our biggest advice is stay within your budget, and start searching 6-8 months out from your wedding day. A Lot of boutiques or designers can take a few months to get your wedding dress in your hands. And don’t forget about alterations. You’ll need to allot yourself plenty of time to alter your dress, once, twice, maybe even three times. Don’t forget to find the right undergarments prior to your alterations. And hold off on buying any accessories until after you find your dress. Unless there is a piece of jewelry, wait until you find your dress. 

STEP 5: MAKE YOUR VISION COME TO LIFE

It’s time to get your hands dirty with making your wedding vision come to life. Now, you can book all of the additional vendors you may need. This includes rentals, florists, baker for your wedding cake, videographers, invitation companies etc. Choosing the right wedding vendors are essential to bringing your wedding day to life. But, don’t go crazy and stay within your budget. Focus on the necessities first, such as chair and linen rentals. Find a florist that can bring your wedding florals to life and don’t over commit yourself if you’re a DIY bride. 

STEP 6: BOOK SMALLER VENDORS 

Once all the essential vendors are booked for your wedding day and contracts have been signed, it’s time to see if there is any wiggle room in your budget for extra vendor add ons. This includes make-up artists, bridal hair stylists, accommodations and transportation. We like to save this for last, because it makes up a small portion of your budget and you don’t have to book months out to secure it. 

If you’re a 2024 bride, now is a great time to set up a consultation and get the planning timeline started. We’re here to help you with each step of the way. If you follow our simple guidelines and stick to the process, it will decrease stress and make the process enjoyable. We’re so excited for your wedding planning process and hope we can help you along the way. And if you’re doing it solo, follow our six steps and we can ensure you that your wedding planning timeline will be off to a smooth start. 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 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.

Tying Fall to your Autumn Nuptials

How to tie Fall into your Nuptials

Fall represents so many things. It is vibrant and the changes of seasons can also represent changes of seasons in your life, such as tying the knot to your loved one. Many couples are quickly leaning towards autumn and we can’t blame them. Fall not only offers a unique and colorful backdrop, but cooler temperatures offer a relief for guests and the wedding party. There are simple ways to tie the season into your wedding day, without having to go all out with the fall crafts and DIY. Let’s talk about some simple, but bold ways to tie the season of fall into your wedding design plans. 

One of the most important details you will plan for your wedding day is your venue. Choosing your venue can be one of the largest parts of your budget and we recommend you select your venue first. Selecting your venue first will set your wedding design and vision. This is one of the easiest ways to incorporate fall into your autumn wedding. As you choose your venue, keep in mind location, how the venue will photograph, and what the temperatures will be like (especially if you’re opting for an outdoor ceremony and reception.) 

A Rustic Feel: If you’re looking to dive into the rustic fall theme, take a peek at your local venues that are on farms or ranch lands. Many of these venues offer barns or rustic decor or scenery that can tie fall into your overall design. And, if your venue has a barn, you can often host the ceremony outside and reception inside as the temperatures drop. 

Wine & Dine: We all love ourselves a glass of wine. Wineries are the perfect venues for fall weddings. The scenery is breathtaking and the landscape will offer guests lots of options to explore. Wines and grapes could adorn your ceremony or wedding reception. Creating a menu that takes your guests on a journey with carefully paired wine would be the perfect cocktail hour. 

Let’s Explore: If you’re a Pacific Northwest bride, take a chance and look for an intimate venue in the forest near the mountains. The beautiful forestry backdrop is the perfect scenery for any adventurous bride or groom. You are also able to use nature’s beauty in almost all aspects of your design decor. Foliage from the forest and greenery that ties into the natural atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for a fall wedding. And, let us tell you – the photographs will be absolutely stunning. 

We’ve talked about our favorite mood boards for fall weddings, but tying in a fall color scheme is one of the best parts of an autumn wedding. These colors are stunning and are sure to compliment your wedding party. Some of our favorites from this season are burnt and fiery oranges, jewel tone greens, burgandys and bright reds, as well as earth tunes. If you want more of a shimmer this fall, leaning towards rose gold and yellow gold can also help your wedding party shine. These colors are not only trendy, but they photograph beautifully in golden hour and with the picturesque fall backdrop. 

Now, let’s talk about design. There is a fine line with any sort of seasonally based design. You don’t want to step too far into the craft aisle. Instead you want to add simple and creative touches of fall decor that is elegant and purposeful. Here are some of our favorite ways to tie in fall decor: 

Setting the Table: You can choose linens that reflect fall scenery and color schemes. This is an easy way to pop in some fall color tones. You can also choose seasonal flowers and tie in various natural foliage such as moss, pinecones, and even adorn some tables with gourds and pumpkins. Having natural warm lighting, such as pillar or taper candles, will really tie in the cozy autumn feel. But, before you opt for real flame, be sure to check with your venue and read your contract carefully. 

Guest Favors: We love a purposeful guest favor. You can tie your venue into party favors, too! For instance, if you’re having your wedding at a winery, see if you can get some wine bottles wholesale for the table. Or if you’re at a local apple orchard, send home some apple cider as a favor. You can head the natural route with some seasonal spices such as sage, or even send home a s’mores kit – who doesn’t love a s’more. 

A Fall Altar: One of our favorite ways to incorporate fall, is to use nature’s gifts as a part of the design. For your ceremony altar, you can use different fall branches, such as birch, and adorn it with moss, fall foliage, or even wheat. You can tie in some seasonal flowers, such as dahlias, wild flowers, earthy greenery and sunflowers, too. This is a simple way to add pops of color and tie autumn into your ceremony decor. 

Next stop is the menu. The menu is an excellent way to tie in all of the flavors of fall. You can create a cozy and savory menu that features seasonal items. If you’re looking to tie fall into your cocktail hour, talk to your bartender about creating fall seasonal drinks or mocktails. You can even tie in some of your favorite fall brews, by adding in some fall themed ales. As for the food, talk to your caterer about tying in some fall favorites and spices. Warm, savory meals will leave your guests wanting more. So, be sure to ask your caterer if they have a seasonal menu or options that can fit your autumn theme. 

Now, even though our list stops here, don’t let your imagination stop. Incorporating fall into your wedding day is more than doable and there are hundreds of creative ways to build it into your design. Our biggest tips to incorporate fall into your wedding day is to choose a venue that sets the backdrop for autumn, think carefully about decor that would enhance the venue and overall feel, and choose drinks and food wisely. Even these small decisions can make a big impact on the overall feel of your day. So, happy planning and don’t be afraid to tie the season into your wedding day! 

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 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.