Let the Planning Begin

In my professional life I am a project manager. When I looked at what all went into a wedding I thought this is just like a project. I mean there is a timeline, a budget, a list of tasks, etc. For me this should have been an easy task, and with so many apps and websites that offer tools to help you plan your big day how could this be hard? Well there was one thing I forgot to take into consideration, I was the one who would have to provide the requirements and make all the decisions.... this just got really CHALLENGING.

First there is setting a date and finding a venue. I decided that I wanted a year long engagement and began to look for dates in the spring of next year. This presented its first set of challenges. I live in a state that has unpredictable bi-polar weather. This meant that my venue needed to provide a great indoor and outdoor option incase the weather was not in our favor come May. After visiting three locations the decision was made. A beautiful venue that had floor to ceiling windows gave the feel of the outdoors, but was beautifully and safely indoors. The biggest bonus was the venue offered a wedding package that covered 90% of the other items. They had the cake, catering, flowers, DJ, toasting glasses, tables, linens, basically everything you could need all wrapped up in a nice package. My parents paid the deposit and were asked which time we would like our wedding, noon or 7pm. WAIT WHAT?!

I had visited this location on a few separate occasions and never did anyone tell me that my 5:30- 6:00 time frame was not going to be acceptable. So now the brakes are applied and the planning comes to a halt. I begin the search once again to find the best venue. After another three venues we finally find another great venue! whew. I pay the deposit and sign the contract and now one of the largest items is crossed of my list! On top of a great ceremony and reception venue they provide linens, tableware, catering, and many of the other basics I can cross off my list. Next up the dress, photography, and invitations.