Granville Farms Real Wedding

Shannon and Taylor’s wedding was an absolute dream. They were married at the beautiful Granville Farms at Lake Helen, Florida. Nestled among 22 acres of stunning pine trees, this venue set a breathtaking scene for both the ceremony and reception.

Venue

The rustic ceremony area, complete with a grand fireplace, was the perfect backdrop for their I DOs. Following, Shannon and Taylor had their first dance beneath a dazzling chandelier in the 7,000 sq foot barn. Surrounded by a room full of loved ones. Their special day included beautiful floral, that fit their theme perfectly. Thus portraying a romantic and classic yet rustic feel. Along with the rustic interior, the venue offers 22 acres of lush, colorful landscapes and cozy gathering areas. Granville Farms is a dream destination all couples seeking both tranquil beauty and luxurious comfort.

Taylor and Shannon
rustic and chic wedding stationary and floral
granville farms inside ceremony with brown high beams and farm style chairs

Ceremony

Shannon and Taylor chose a traditional chair setting with lanterns surrounded by greenery as aisle décor. The popular brown, farmhouse style chairs matched the interior of Granville Farms perfectly. The dark wood crossbeams provided a warm feeling for the ceremony on their special day. This location provide ample lighting for later ceremony times as well. The happy couple used the grey stone fireplace and mantle as their backdrop. Therefore, the bridal party attire, as well as the couples attire, popped beautifully.

Details

This rustic wedding set a beautiful scene for the happy couple to get married. The bride wore a lace and floral patterned dress with a short trail. Her veil framed the couples attire well. In contrast, to her white, lacey wedding dress, the groom wore a traditional black suit. The suit was paired with a white rose boutonniere to compliment the bride’s bouquet. The groomsmen matched the grooms attire, while the bridesmaids wore different fabrics in a nude color palate. For all of those reasons, the bridal parties attire contrasted beautifully against the outdoor scenery and the indoor, rustic feel.  

Taylor and Shannon wedding photos
groomsmen standing with drinks in hand
bride and her bridesmaids standing in a liner smiling at the camera

Reception

Granville Farms has a large interior area for both ceremony and reception spaces. Shannon and Taylor converted their ceremony space into the reception space during their cocktail hour. They used the same chairs from the ceremony as the seating for the reception. This is a very cost effective idea for all couples on their wedding day. Furthermore the couple used the greenery and lanterns from their ceremony as the centerpieces for their reception. In addition to the rustic, elegant reception was their four-tier cake decorated with simple, white sugar paper flowers. The happy couple chose to include macarons and tarts as their other dessert options. What better way to celebrate a happy union than sweet desserts.

indoor wedding ceremony with white linens, farm style cross-back chairs, and lanterns surrounded by greenery as centerpieces
happy married couple holding hands on cake cutting knife while cutting a slice of the simple, white, four-tiered cake

Photography: 28 North Photography | Planner: Joe Hearn Events | Venue: Granville Farms | Florist: Goldies Flower Truck | Hair and Makeup: Moonstone Artistry | Catering: Cocktail Catering

Georgia DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.619.6232
georgia@isaidyesfl.com

Jeremy DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.907.0000
jeremy@isaidyesfl.com

Sierra L’Estrange
Admin Manager
I Said Yes!
407.286.8088
info@isaidyesfl.com

Historic Venue 1902 Real Wedding

Do not be afraid to make your wedding day your own, we know that is hard with all the different opinions side-swiping you from left and right, but just go for it! Because Lauren and Curt are such an amazing and sweet couple, their wedding day reflected their fun personalities. 

Venue

Historic Venue 1902 is a beautiful schoolhouse that gives you a glimpse back in time. Furthermore, back when teachers wrote on chalk boards and we actually used those hardback books, instead of computers. Sitting in the pews of their classroom is not only a great photo op, but brings some nostalgia to your wedding. Coupled with the photo ops, the chalkboards can be decorated by Venue 1902’s Chalk Artist to create some fun Star Wars reference, quotes, and drawings!

Venue 1902 also offers FURNITURE RENTALS to add the perfect lounge area for your guests to relax and take in the joyful occasion!

Ceremony

The wedding garden at Venue 1902 is the perfect area for ceremony and cocktail hour. Furthermore, it transports your guests to an old school yard where you can frolic around. For all of those reasons, you should take advantage of all the amazing picture opportunities that it has to offer. Venue 1902’s arch was decorated with gorgeous flowers from Atmosphere Floral that tied in all the colors, with pops of red that matched the bridesmaid’s dresses. 

Surprise For The Groom

The wedding day is always all about the bride, but what about the groom? Lauren wanted to make her groom feel special and surprise him with one of his favorite movies series come to life… Enter stormtroopers! Indeed, These guys were absolutely incredible, leading the bride and groom into their grand entrance. Following this, they remained stationed around the couple for their first dance. The groom’s expression could not have been more perfect. Along with the Stormtroopers, the bride brought light sabers for some fun shots. Not only was this a surprise for the groom, but the guests got to get in on the fun as well. The energy was beaming on the dance floor all night at Lauren and Curt’s wedding.

Details

Instead of something blue, how about red? We love these beautiful red shoes that our bride picked out. Additionally, it matched beautifully with her floral and was such a fun additional pop of color. The Save the Date and Invitation suite from Shutterfly matched Venue 1902’s aesthetic and the pop of red form their “B” was seal tied everything together perfectly. The groom also wore Star Wars socks and had a quote from Yoda on his tie clip saying “Do or do not, there is no try.”

Photo + Video: Lililu Weddings | Planner/Designer: All the Details by Danielle | Venue: Historic Venue 1902 | Invitation Suite: Shutterfly | Chalk Art: Chalk Art by Ashley | Florist: Atmosphere Floral | Hair and Makeup: Truluckstudio | Bartending Serve: Pat’s Wedding Supply | Catering: Uncommon Catering | Brides Attire: David’s Bridal | Groom’s Attire: Dillards | Dessert:  Nothing Bundt Cakes | Photobooth: Photo Booth Rocks

Georgia DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.619.6232
georgia@isaidyesfl.com

Jeremy DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.907.0000
jeremy@isaidyesfl.com

Sierra L’Estrange
Admin Manager
I Said Yes!
407.286.8088
info@isaidyesfl.com

THE BLACK BARN STYLED SHOOT

This styled shoot is full of whimsical details that transport you to the French countryside. A minimalist barn, full of natural light, was the perfect setting for this elegant and dreamy shoot. As you can see, the unique rustic vibe and the venue’s colors were ideal for the photographer to capture a magical feel in the photos. Therefore, this is the perfect inspiration for your wedding Pinterest boards!

The Black Barn Orlando photo shoot on I Said Yes
The Black Barn wedding on I Said Yes Central Florida

Contempo Photos, along with one of the most talented teams of wedding vendors in Central Florida, created this styled shoot with a romantic theme. This styled shoot was inspired by a French country picnic. Furthermore, one of the most breathtaking elements to this shoot is the floral arrangements. Mixing garden flowers and lavender stocks along with a color palette of lilacs, pink blush, and greens. Following this, the floral was complemented with lighted candle tablescapes.

The Black Barn is a modern style farm venue located in the heart of Orlando. Furthermore, The beautiful mix of foliage keeps the black barn tucked away from surrounding neighbors so you can enjoy the beautiful farmland and celebrate your special day right.

Get married at The Black Barn Orlando on I Said Yes
The Black Barn on I Said Yes Florida

An unconventional and fun twist was brought in to replace the traditional wedding cake. As you can see, the macaron tower was not only a statement piece at the reception, but also added a splash of color. Additionally, the A-line wedding dress allowed for beautiful movement to be captured in the photos. Admittedly, the bride’s natural make-up and hair highlighted her beauty, and complimented the dress style. 

More About The Black Barn

Blending nicely with the styled shoot color palette, the groom wore an elegant blue suit. Unquestionably, The Black Barn offers so many great photo opportunities for you and your photographer to capture all of the special moments. This venue offers a relaxed and warm environment for all types of events: weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, family parties, reunions, graduation parties , and other private events. 

The Black Barn Orlando on I Said Yes
Stationery photo by Contempo Photos on I Said Yes
The Black Barn on I Said Yes Florida
Orlando's The Black Barn on I Said Yes

Photo + Video: Contempo Photos and Videos | Planner/Designer: Socialite EventsVenue: The Black Barn Orlando | Invitation Suite: Fioribelle | Signage/Place Cards/Menus: Rosebud Calligraphy | Florist: Le Fleur AtelierHair and Makeup: M3 | Models: Premier Model Management | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: EventWorksBrides Attire: Attire theory Bridal House | Groom’s Attire: Leonardo 5th Avenue | Cake:  Le Macaron Celebration

Georgia DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.619.6232
georgia@isaidyesfl.com

Jeremy DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.907.0000
jeremy@isaidyesfl.com

Sierra L’Estrange
Admin Manager
I Said Yes!
407.286.8088
info@isaidyesfl.com

Bringing your dream wedding to life can be stressful and overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Few newly engaged couples have a list of vendors already on their radar. Additionally, engaged couples resort to searching on Google or Instagram in order to find their wedding vendors. Finding your vendors online is simple, but there is something to be said about making one-on-one connections with potential vendors. Unquestionably, an expo is the top wedding planning event as any and all vendors you are looking for can be found in one place. Below are the top 5 reasons you need to attend a wedding expo before investing your time in online browsing. 

Save Money, Plan Better

Searching for your wedding vendors online leads to a use of personal funds and time that you may not have. The endless trips to and from vendor locations can cost you an arm and a leg. Therefore, wedding expos are your one stop shop for all things wedding vendor related. Instead of spending 6-12 months searching, take 1 or 2 trips to a wedding expo and find everything you need for a much lower price. Wedding expos can cost $5-15 and there are some that offer free admission.

Big Wins, Big Giveaways

Wedding expos not only bring a fun and relaxed vibe to wedding planning, but also provide free goodies and giveaways. Purchasing tickets to an expo often times leads to the opportunity to be entered into giveaways that the vendors provide. Moreover, these giveaways will often be free photoshoots for you and your fiancé, as well as free honeymoons and so much more. Who wouldn’t want to save all of that money on their wedding!

Find Your Theme

Wedding planning comes with many exciting choices including your theme and color palette. In fact, there are a wide range of theme’s to browse all over the internet including the I Said Yes! social media platforms. However, browsing theme’s online doesn’t allow you to see what it would look like on your special day. This is why attending a wedding expo is a necessity when choosing your wedding vendors. You have the ability to see what these vendors have to offer you on your wedding day. With hundreds of displays to see, attending a wedding expo during you wedding planning process is a non-negotiable.

Book Your Vendor Day Of

One of the biggest perks of attending a wedding planning event is the ability to book your vendors the same day. The vendors at these expos are there to help you build the wedding of your dreams. Moreover, vendors will offer expo day discounts that are well worth the visit to your local expo. If you are ready to find all of yours vendors, check out the I Said Yes! wedding show page, where you can find expos coming soon near you.

Free Stuff Anyone?

One of the best experiences of a wedding expo, other than partying while you wedding plan, is the free samples and goodies. Cake and dessert vendors at an expo provide samples of their most popular flavors, which are beyond delicious. Furthermore, caterers will provide food samples, sometimes alcohol for ages 18+, to convince you that they are the perfect dinner team for your wedding. On the other hand, you can experience astonishing fashion shows with the newest trends in wedding gowns and men’s tux’s. Don’t miss out on your chance to plan the wedding of your dreams and party while your at it.

Georgia DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.619.6232
georgia@isaidyesfl.com

Jeremy DeFrancisco
Owner
I Said Yes!
407.907.0000
jeremy@isaidyesfl.com

Sierra L’Estrange
Admin Manager
I Said Yes!
407.286.8088
info@isaidyesfl.com

Historic wedding venues can help you create a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your guests. According to Art & History Museums Maitland, there are 45 National Historic Landmarks located in the State of Florida. Yet only 10 allow you to host a wedding, and many significantly limit access during normal operating hours. In this blog, we are showing how one local Florida couple used Art & History Museums of Maitland to be the stunning backdrop to their perfect wedding.

magazine cover photo by PB&J Studios
Photo by PB&J Studios from cover shoot of I Said Yes! Magazine

Intimate Wedding at historic wedding venue in florida

Recently John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering shared with us one of their real weddings. Allowing us to see how Kate and John took full advantage of all the gorgeous spaces with-in this historic wedding venue.

From the Chapel & Mayan Courtyard, the cornerstone of Art & History’s Maitland Art Center, to the Main Garden. Without a doubt, this property makes wedding dreams come true.

historic wedding venues Florida
Mayan gardens at historic wedding venue Florida

Pre-Wedding Portrait Session

Kate and Ryan’s first look was more like a beautiful portrait session. As a result they have incredibly memorable photos of their wedding day. Of course the gorgeous architecture of the Art and History Center proved to be a perfect back drop for capturing these priceless moments. Unquestionably these photos are magazine worthy. In fact, this real wedding was recently featured in the pages of I Said Yes! Wedding Magazine

bride poses at Historic Wedding Venue
pre-wedding photos at Maitland Art Center
first look on I Said Yes! wedding blog
Kate and Ryan on I Said Yes! Blog
Real Wedding on I Said Yes!
Real Wedding on I Said Yes!

Ceremony in a historic wedding venue

Following their first look, the couple exchanged wedding vows in the Mayan Chapel of this historic wedding venue. Kate and Ryan were married by wedding officiant Katherine T. Imundi.

Further, the chapel was accented with beautiful floral pieces by Atmospheres Floral and Décor.  Correspondingly pairing with the colors of the bridal bouquet.

Unquestionably an outdoor chapel wedding is not complete without live wedding entertainment. For this reason, Harpist Christine MacPhail filled the ceremony with elegant harp music. Moreover the music set the stage for Kate, as she was escorted down the aisle by her father.

wedding ceremony in historic wedding venue in Florida
bride walking down aisle with father
couple gets married in historic wedding venue Florida
large wedding floral decor on I Said Yes!
live wedding entertainment by Harpist Christine MacPhail

Reception in the Mayan courtyard

Following the wedding ceremony, guests enjoyed a selection of beer and wine along with butler passed hors d ‘oeuvres in the Mayan Courtyard. Including Boursin Stuffed Mushroom Caps, Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Grated Parmesan Cheese and Balsamic Watermelon Bites.

Next they were escorted to the reception. Where, across the courtyard, tables were set with dusty rose linen, paired with burgundy colored napkins. Indeed a true compliment to the cool dark stone features of the Mayan Courtyard. Similarly the tables were dressed with floral centerpieces, votive candles, and personalized wedding favors. Further complimenting the wedding colors.

After the couple’s first dance and a few toasts, everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner.

The menu, provided by John Michael Exquisite Weddings & Catering, included:

  • Mediterranean Salad
  • Rosemary Garlic, Honey Wheat, and Sea Salt Yeast Rolls with Butter
  • Lemon Chicken
  • Baked Four Cheese Ziti
  • Maple Salmon
  • Rosemary Shallot Roasted Potatoes
  • Seasonal Vegetable Sauté
mauve and pink wedding reception
wedding floral by John Michael Exquisite weddings
salad by John Michael Exquisite Wedding and Catering
saute veg by John Michael Catering
lemon chicken wedding catering
3 tier naked wedding cake on I Said Yes!
first dance on I Said Yes!

Diamond Wedding Package

Kate and Ryan worked with John Michael Exquisite Events and Catering for an all-inclusive catering and vendor Diamond Package. Their diamond packages are the perfect fit for couples looking for a one stop shop for fresh, quality food and talented, reputable vendors. In fact, with this package, the vendors are vetted and verified for skill and quality. Likewise they are distinguished in their industry for continued excellence. These diamond packages provide clients with everything that they will need to ensure a successful wedding ceremony and reception. For more information on John Michael Exquisite Events and Catering all-inclusive packages, Click Here.

Wedding professionals who helped Kate and Ryan create their perfect wedding at this historic wedding venue: 

Catering and Day of Coordinator: John Michael Exquisite Weddings and Catering

Floral Design: Atmospheres Floral and Décor

Wedding Photography: Sterling Photography International

Wedding Officiant: I Marry Couples / Katherine T. Imundi

Wedding Cake: It’s Tasty Too

Ceremony Music: Harpist Christine MacPhail 

DJ / Lighting: Power Entertainment 

Get inspired to plan your one-of-a-kind wedding by viewing the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog for more real weddings, styled shoots and expert wedding planning tips.

And, get tickets to an upcoming I Said Yes! Wedding Expo and I DOs and BREWS wedding planning date night to meet wedding vendors face to face and learn more about how they can help you create your dream wedding.

wedding photos by reflecting pond

Congratulations Kate & Ryan!

NEW GIVEAWAY STARTS TODAY!!  Why should you Enter to Win on I Said Yes? Unquestionably because you want to win a $100 Target Gift Card. However, you will also be connecting with wedding vendors so you can plan your perfect wedding. So either way, it’s a win!

HOw To Enter

There are 2 simple things you need to do to enter to win…

First, complete the registration from the Enter to Win Pop Up.  If you haven’t already done that, click here.

Second, “Request Pricing” from minimum of 2 Wedding Vendors on I Said Yes! FL.  To do this, click on a wedding vendor profile you are interested in learning more about, then click the purple “Request Pricing” button. Finish by completing the short email/form. And voila! you’re done. 

Of course, you can get additional entries for every 2 “Request Pricing” entries you submit.  Important, only request information from those vendors to whom you are considering working with for your wedding. One other thing, use this process to also compare companies. Of course follow their Facebook and Instagram pages. And ask questions. So you can find your next wedding vendors. Additionally read the official Rules and Regulations for full contest details.

Current Prize Drawing on 10/31/2022

Current Enter To Win prize is a $100 Target Gift Card. Provided by your favorite wedding resource team – I Said Yes!

Come back for more prizes

Additional prize drawings available through the year both on the website and at wedding planning events. For instance, I DOs and BREWS and I Said Yes! Wedding Shows

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, wedding inspiration, wedding planning tips and announcements on event dates.

Congratulations on your engagement. Now go enjoy planning your wedding!

Official Rules & Regulations of Enter To Win

CONTEST RULES AND TERMS OF USE NO PURCHASE OR ONLINE ACCESS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN ONLINE PRIZE GIVEAWAYS Participation constitutes entrant’s full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these Official Rules. ELIGIBILITY Open to individuals who are legal residents of the United States (EXCLUDING PUERTO RICO), who are 18 years of age or over as of the date of entry and Canada, 18 years or older. Employees or agents of I Said Yes! FL (the “Sponsor”) and their respective parent companies, affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising/promotional agencies, and the members of their immediate families or those persons living in the same household of such individuals are ineligible to enter or win. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. Void where prohibited by law. ENTRIES Entry in this contest is available through online registration only and requires 2 steps. Step 1 – Register your name, fiancés name, email address, and wedding date through Giveaway Entry Form on www.isaidyesfl.com.  Step 2 – Visit Wedding Vendor listings on www.isaidyesfl.com and click Request Pricing Button to directly email wedding vendor for more information on their product/services.  For each 2 direct email connects to wedding vendors through www.isaidysefl.com website, one entry will be recorded per email address, per person.  Multiple entries, per email address, per person are permitted when meeting contest guidelines for entry. All entries become the exclusive property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Any use of robotic, automatic, programmed or the like entry methods will void all such entries by such methods. LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER PERSON, PER E-MAIL ADDRESS, PER EVERY 2 DIRECT EMAIL CONNECTS WITH DIFFERENT VENDORS PER CONNECTION, THROUGH WWW.ISAIDYESFL.COM CONTACT SYSTEM (REGARDLESS OF WHETHER MORE THAN ONE PERSON USES THE SAME E-MAIL ADDRESS). MULTPLIE ENTRIES BY SAME PERSON WITH DIFFERENT EMAIL ADDRESS IS NOT PERMITTED AND WILL VOID ALL ENTRIES BY SAID PERSON. E-MAIL CHANGE OF ADDRESS POLICY: It is the sole responsibility of the entrant to notify the Sponsor in writing if the entrant changes his/her e-mail address. (To do so, write to I Said Yes! FL PO Box 496 Minneola, FL 34755. The Sponsor and its agencies are not responsible for lost, interrupted or unavailable network, server or other connections, miscommunications, failed phone or computer hardware or software or telephone transmissions or technical failures, garbled or jumbled transmissions or other errors of any kind, whether human, mechanical or electronic; including without limitation the incorrect or inaccurate capture of entry information online, or for lost, late, incomplete, damaged, destroyed, delayed, stolen, misdirected or illegible entries. Entry materials/data that have been tampered with or altered are void. Once submitted, entries become the sole property of the Sponsor and will not be returned. In case of dispute as to identity of a winner, such entry will be declared made by the registered user of the e-mail account at the time the entry was submitted, and if a prize is won, and such registered user is a valid entrant, the prize will be awarded to such registered user. PRIZES No alternative prize, cash, or other substitution is permitted except by the Sponsor in the event of prize unavailability. Prizes have no cash value, are non-refundable, non-transferrable, non-negotiable and subject to change without notice. All federal, state, provincial, and local taxes are the sole responsibility of the winner. WINNERS Selection of Winner: Winner will be determined by random drawing from all eligible entries received, to be held after the end of the Contest Period at the Sponsor’s offices. All decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. The winner will be notified by e-mail or U.S. mail within 15 days of the drawing. Winner will have 10 days from notification to accept the prize by e-mail to info@isaidyesfl.com or by U.S. mail to the address specified in the notification. The Sponsor is not responsible for and shall not be liable for any late, lost, or misdirected notification, or for winner’s unsuccessful efforts to claim any prize. Winner may be required to sign and return a release of liability, declaration of eligibility, and where lawful, a publicity consent agreement, all within 10 days of acknowledged notification. By accepting and/or using prize, the winner agrees to the use of his/her name, voice and/or likeness for the purpose of advertising, trade, or promotion without further compensation, unless prohibited by law. If a selected winner cannot be contacted, is ineligible, fails to claim a prize, or fails to timely return the completed and executed declaration and releases as required, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner will be selected. In the event of a dispute regarding who submitted an online entry, the entry will be deemed submitted by the authorized account holder of the e-mail account. GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS By entering, each participant agrees to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of Sponsor, which shall be final. Sponsor, agents and representatives of Sponsor, its parent companies, affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, promotion, and fulfillment agencies, and legal advisors are not responsible for and shall not be liable for: (i) late, lost, delayed, damaged, misdirected, incomplete, illegible, unintelligible, or postage-due entries; (ii) telephone, electronic, hardware or software program, network, Internet, or computer malfunctions, failures, or difficulties of any kind; (iii) failed, incomplete, garbled, or delayed computer transmissions; (iv) any condition caused by events beyond the control of the Sponsor that may cause the Contests to be disrupted or corrupted; (v) any injuries, losses, or damages of any kind arising in connection with or as a result of the prize, or acceptance, possession, or use of the prize, or from participation in the Contests; or (vi) any printing or typographical errors in any materials associated with the Contests. 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RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES Any and all disputes and claims relating to this Promotion shall be resolved by binding arbitration by a single arbitrator selected by a Circuit Court judge of the State of Florida. Florida law shall apply to the resolution, award, enforcement and collection relating to any dispute or claim. Each party shall pay one-half of the costs of the arbitration. The dispute and claims and arbitration proceedings shall at all times be kept confidential except to the extent necessary to enforce or collect the arbitration award. WINNERS LIST To receive a list of winners or a copy of the Official Rules, send a self-addressed stamped envelope for receipt to I Said Yes! FL PO Box 496 Minneola, FL 3475 By participating in this giveaway you agree to the rules and regulations stated above.

YES! You're engaged - now what?

Let us help you. Because we have a free wedding planning checklist for you. No matter what stage of the wedding planning process you are in, this downloadable checklist will ease some of your planning anxiety.

We have partnered with Just Marry! to bring you their expert advice. As a Florida wedding planning company, Just Marry! has been making wedding dreams come true for almost 30 years.

Click the cover image below to access your own free copy of The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist. Further, continue reading to find links to other helpful blogs and wedding vendors who can help you along the way to creating your perfect wedding. 

10-12 Months Before Your Wedding Day

Assuredly this is not a complete list, but rather a great representation of the items you need to check-off during your wedding planning process.  Start by reviewing the entire list. Then include additional items that are important to you, that may not be listed here.  Subsequently allow this to be your wedding guide. This list starts 10-12 months before the big day and offers the best timeline. However, it is also meant to be adjusted to fit your time frame as well. Remembering that some items on your to do list are time sensitive and need to be addressed right away. 

To get you started, below are some tips on completing some of the items in this section:

1. Collect design inspiration by viewing a digital copy of the I Said Yes! Magazine, reading Wedding Inspiration on I Said Yes! Blog and Just Marry! Blog and pinning your favorite ideas on Pinterest.

2. Hire a wedding planner. (Learn more about the importance of having a wedding planner in this helpful blog – Best Wedding Planning Tips From The Pros.)

3. Reserve your wedding venue.

4. Hire a photographer and schedule your engagement shoot.

5. Hire a florist, caterer, DJ/Band, and other must-have wedding vendors.

wedding planning checklist for 9 months before

Certainly you are looking forward to all the shopping. No doubt your wedding dress is on the top of the list. Therefore, start shopping for a wedding dress is #1 on the 9 months before list.

1. Start shopping for a wedding dress 

2. Choose a beautiful place for your honeymoon. Experts encourage you to not wait to plan your honeymoon. One reason is you can start making payments now, and reduce the big payment due right before all of our wedding day final payments are also due.

3. Schedule a custom suit fitting.  This isn’t on the list, but we can’t go without mentioning Leonardo 5th Avenue. Because they create a true experience for the suit wearer, just as the bridal salons do for the wedding gowns.

8 months before your wedding day

Obviously 8 months before is the sweetest time of your wedding planning process. That is to say, who doesn’t want to eat cake! 

1. Select and order your wedding cake and/or desserts.

2. Select and order bridesmaid’s dresses. There are many options available for online ordering. Be sure to read the custom fitting return policies, shipping timelines and sizing charts when reviewing these sites.  Here is a blog on Brides.com to help you compare online companies. 

7 months before your wedding day

Generally speaking, the items on this months section of the free wedding planning checklist will require some design and planning. Speak with your wedding planner or your designer to be sure you order the correct colors, quantity and styles of rental items for your wedding day. Remember most wedding vendors will require a deposit at time of signing, be prepared for this when you reserve any rentals that you may need for your ceremony, reception and after party. Review local wedding rental companies here

Furthermore, if your wedding is being held outside, consider putting a hold on a tent for a back-up weather plan.

wedding planning checklist for 6 months before

Are you wearing your hair up or down? Similarly, are you going all drama, or soft and natural with your make-up? This is why scheduling a trial run for hair and make-up is important 6 months before your wedding day.

Couple with this, do you want to go to the salon or have your artist come to your get ready room? For all these reasons, start early looking for your Hair and Make-up Artist so you find the perfect fit for your vision of yourself on your wedding day.  Also consider skin treatments may take many months to see a change, these too need to be started early.

3-5 months before your wedding day

Things are starting to speed up, can you believe there is only 3 months until you marry your best friend! During this time you are beginning to put the finishing touches on many of your items on the wedding planning checklist. Like submitting your catering menu, scheduling your rehearsal dinner and your first wedding dress fitting. Be sure to include your fiancé in some of these items, it will help to work together as a team to accomplish the details. 

weeks 1-8 on the free wedding planning checklist

Print these weeks out and hang them in a prominent place in your house. Consider creating a shareable checklist with your fiancé. Because these weeks are filled with finalizing, reviewing, applying, submitting, rehearsing, and confirming.  Remember to take it one thing at a time, and you will finish just in time for the big day.

1-2 Days Before Your Wedding Day

Drink plenty of water. I repeat, drink plenty of water. In fact, the wedding planning experts from Just Marry! suggest limiting your alcohol and coffee intake as well. Likewise plenty of sleep is a necessary part of the days leading up to your wedding.  Get rest, drink water and be ready, for tomorrow you marry your best friend.

on your wedding day

Today is the day! Oh my goodness!

The advice from the team at I Said Yes! is to give this list to someone else.  Unquestionably today is your day and you deserve to enjoy every single moment.

For some wedding planning fun, join us at I DOs and BREWS wedding planning date nights and I Said Yes! Wedding Shows.

Happy Planning! Download the Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist.

Cover photo by Steven Miller Photography

The I Said Yes! Orlando Wedding Magazine brings to you a special summer edition. Because we want you to plan your dream wedding while sitting by the pool, with a cool drink, and a pair of shades.  Or, if you’re not the outdoorsy type, then you can curl up on the sofa, with the A/C full blast and plan away. And, what better way to do that, then by flipping through the pages of a FREE e-magazine

In fact, this digital magazine makes finding your wedding vendors even easier. Particularly because you can click on the links in the magazine to visit vendor websites and online listings to learn more. Then you can click to connect through email, contact forms or social media. 

What's in this issue?

Unquestionably we create this Orlando wedding magazine with you, the engaged couple, in mind. Therefore we packed this issue with 7 real weddings, 2 styled shoots, 1 expert advice article and tons of inspiration. But that’s not all…it also has links to local wedding pros, information on upcoming wedding shows and I DOs and BREWS™ events. As well as social media links. In fact, there are even videos for some of the pages – simply click the play button when it appears on a page.

Orlando wedding magazine cover photo
Magazine cover photo by Steven Miller Photography

Real Weddings

We LOVE sharing real weddings with you. Seeing local couples create their perfect wedding day, then marry their best friend and start their new adventure is swoon worthy. Here is a sneak peek of a few of the local couples featured in this issue.

Orlando wedding magazine feature wedding
28 North Photography
Orlando wedding magazine real wedding feature
Bumby Photography
Bella Collina wedding on I Said Yes FL
Jack Bates Photography

2 Styled Shoots

Of course we can’t publish an Orlando wedding magazine without a few styled shoots. Normally the cover of the magazine is created through a styled shoot. But, the cover of this issue is the beautiful wedding of our owners’ daughter. Seriously we can’t stop sharing their wedding. You must check it out starting on page 38.

Since the cover is actually a real wedding, we feature 2 different styled shoots in the pages of this wedding e-magazine. View the shoot starting on page 17 for a look at a new wedding venue in town, The Black Barn.

The Black Barn Wedding Veneu

View the Orlando Wedding Magazine

Now it is time to sit back, put your feet up and enjoy flipping through the pages of this e-magazine. You can even share the magazine on your social pages, or send it to your fiancé, I DO Crew and family. In fact, you can take it with you every where you go because it is always accessible on I Said Yes! FL

View more wedding planning inspiration, real weddings, styled shoots and expert advice on the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog and don’t forget to get tickets to the next I Said Yes! Wedding Show and I DOs and BREWS™ wedding planning date nights.

Congratulations on your engagement and may your wedding planning be a fun adventure.

Wedding planning tips from the pros who know. We consulted with Florida wedding planners, Seas Your Day Events, to bring you some of their top wedding planning advice. 

One of this team’s favorite sayings is, “You don’t know, what you don’t know!” And their team of expert planners wants to help you, be in the know.  So you can create your dream wedding, from start to finish.

crazy bridal party pose
Photo by William Arthur Photography

How Many Planners Does one wedding need

First, you booked your venue. And it comes with a coordinator. Next, you booked your caterer. And it too comes with a coordinator. Although you may feel like you are covered in the coordinator department, Seas Your Day Events gives expert wedding planning tips on why you should hire one more coordinator.  A wedding coordinator.

Each “coordinator” role has its purpose. In other words, all your vendors have been trained to do specific jobs that they love.  Adding a wedding planner to your team of amazing vendors benefits everyone in the long run. No doubt your other vendors will thank you, because each coordinator is responsible for their own area of expertise! For instance, the venue coordinator’s main focus, is the venue. Likewise, the catering coordinator is focused on the catering. As each should be. 

Next comes the wedding coordinator, whose main focus is you. The couple getting married. And their job is to be everywhere at once. From décor set up to keeping the entire event running on time. From helping the bride take one last trip to the bathroom, to putting your favorite drink in your hand after the ceremony. And EVERYTHING Before, After and In Between. All the while focusing on making sure you have your best day ever.

wedding planning tips by Seas Your Day Events
Photo by Steven Miller Photography

Seas Your Day Events says, “A wedding coordinator acts as your wedding guru throughout the entire planning process. Starting with answering all of your late night or early morning questions and making your dreams come true! (With SYD you get unlimited emails, texts, and phone calls. We will accompany you to vendor meetings or even go on your behalf. With SYD you get a wedding BFF!) By the time your wedding rolls around, your wedding coordinator will be able to answer any questions that arise from other vendors. Most importantly they will answer the way you would answer them.  Because they’ve spent so much time on your vision, they know how you would answer that question.”

Vendors love working together to create a magical, memorable event for you – the more hands, the better! 

Read the full blog on How Many Coordinators Does One Wedding Need

Wedding Planning Tips For choosing your venue

Searching for your venue is typically the first step in your wedding planning process. Because, without a venue, you have no date! Without a date you can’t even begin to start booking your vendors. 

Here are some questions to serve as a guideline as you work toward choosing a wedding venue near me.  As we discussed earlier, if you have your planner early on, they can help you navigate through your venue search. Plus keep track of all this info for you.

  • Is there a bridal/groom suite?

  • What’s the plan for inclement weather?

  • Does the venue allow outside food and drinks? 

  • Can the rentals stay out all night or do they need to be picked up at the end of the night? 
  • What is the bathroom situation?  

  • Does the venue have required vendors?

  • What time can you start setting up?

  • If being provided by the venue, who will set up tables and chairs?

  • Do you have a permanent or mobile bar set up available? And is there a place to store ice?

  • Is there power where you envision the DJ going?

  • Can you bring your décor during your rehearsal and leave overnight? 

 
Learn why these questions are important to discuss during your venue tour on the Seas Your Day Events – Questions To Ask Your Wedding Venue Blog
views from upstairs event space will make your event memorable
Tavares Pavilion on the Lake Wedding Venue

all inclusive packages

Seas Your Day Events provided us with the pros of an all inclusive package and why it works well for couples wanting to stay on budget and get the best out of their vendors.

  1. You get a vetted network of vendors so you don’t have to do a ton of research.
  2. You know that you won’t go over your budget.
  3. You get the full support of wedding planners.
  4. You know that the vendors have worked well together in the past.
  5. Vendors are familiar with the venue.
  6. It can be most cost effective.
  7. You can customize your package and still stay within the budget and still get complete control over your big day. Oftentimes packages will have more than one vendor option so you can customize your day.
  8. You can focus on the fun parts – picking your outfits, writing your vows, having your bachelor and bachelorette parties.
  9. Nobody is missing from the party.
soft blue bridesmaids dresses
Photo by Jessica Thomas Photography

ultimate bridal party guide

Your bridal party is there to support you on your wedding day and is made up of your closest friends and family. No doubt, they are there to be a sounding board during the planning process. Most importantly, they are your “I Do Crew” for the party. Below are a few wedding planning tips for your bridal party. Get even more details and information on the  Seas Your Day Events Ultimate Bridal Party Guide. 

How to pick your bridal party

  • Don’t choose someone just because they chose you.

  • Choose someone responsible (ish) for your Maid of Honor / Best Man. 

  • Decide what they are paying for and what you are paying for. 

  • Girls or guys on either side – don’t be afraid to break tradition. 

  • Kids are not required. 

bridal party photo for wedding planning tips blog
Photo by Dreamscape Photography + Videography

What To Get Them

Your bridesmaids and groomsmen are standing with you on your special day. For that reason, you may be planning on giving bridal party gifts. If so, consider something memorable. Also think about things you might “require” of your crew. Like robes or pajamas. Seas Your Day Events linked some of their favorite gifts below. But be sure to check out Etsy. Because, who doesn’t love Etsy!

Bridesmaids:

Groomsmen:

gift idea for bridal party on wedding planning tips blog

Who pays for what - wedding planning tips

It should be clear from the get-go what you are expecting your bridal party to pay for. Certainly you should let them know as soon as possible. So that they can prepare financially. Wedding Wire estimates that the average cost of being a bridesmaid is $1200 for each wedding. This can vary wedding to wedding. But it’s definitely something to be aware of.  Here’s a list of things you could be asking your party to pay for:

What They Pay For

  • Their own travel and accommodations for bachelorette parties, the actual wedding and other festivities.

  • Potentially, part of your way for bachelor/bachelorette parties. This distinction should be made early in the planning process.

  • For their outfits, for all of your festivities

  • For their hair and makeup – this is at your discretion.  But note that paying for these services can add up and it’s not unusual to ask for your bridal party to pay for some or all of them.

 

What You Pay For

There are some things that the couple is responsible for. Some of these things are optional of course

  • Florals
  • Transportation to Wedding Venue
  • Bridal Party Gifts
  • Bridal Party Proposal Gifts

However you decide to build your bridal party remember that you want to be surrounded by loving and supportive people, specifically, people that support your marriage. You want to make sure you choose the people that you will have the most fun with, and will also have your best interests in mind throughout the whole day!

photo of wedding bridal party by Blak and Tammy Photography
Photo by Blak and Tammy Photography
groom and groomsmen photo for wedding planning tips blog
Photo by Shelbi DeMartino

Thank you to Seas Your Day Events for all these amazing wedding planning tips.  As wedding experts in Central Florida, they want you to know everything you need to know, to plan your perfect wedding.  Follow them on IG Reels and TikTok for their regular dose of wedding planning tips!

For more wedding planning help, join us at the next I Said Yes! Wedding Show – Click Here to Get Tickets.

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