new

heatherR444

hi ladies new to the knot, just got engaged, not really planning yet but i hear finding the venue is the hardest and most expensive along with catering, i might want to get a planner or doc anyone have any suggestions?

ruby3583

I'm not familiar with south florida, but I would look into when and where is the next bridal show in the area that you are getting married at.  Alot of vendors (including DOC) will be there and it would be a nice start to get some information for you!  Good luck and enjoy planning (try not to get too stressed out!)  The more you get down in the beginning, the better!!

ajoyfulnole

Congrats!  Welcome!

Definitely do your venue(s) as soon as possible!  Some venues won't let you book until a specific number of days before your wedding, but since venue and catering are most of your budget, the great locations that don't cost an arm, a leg, and a kidney go fast! 

I haven't actually been to any bridal shows, but I do hear that if you go, make up a "wedding" email on Gmail or one of the other free sites to give to vendors because otherwise, you will be spammed hardcore for a ridiculously long time.  Even though I never went to a bridal show, I've gotten at least one call a week on my cell telling me I get a free makeover or who knows what else.  I still have no clue where they got my phone number.

Good luck!  Have fun!  Don't worry - for me it didn't start to get stressful until about two weeks ago ;-)

PS - HI RUBY!!

irisheyezfsu

Welcome! Are you getting married in South or Central Florida?  this is the Central Florida board. 

Also check out your month board once you set a date.  It is true the best venues can book 18 months out, so what I suggest is start venue shopping

Venues will want to know approx. how many guests you will be inviting.

Questions to ask:

Parking availability and potential cost?
Is there a caterer on location or do you have a list of outside caterers I can use?
What is the cost of the venue? Deposit?
What is included, linens, place settings, chairs, tables etc?
Is there a limit to when we can use music (some venues have a shut down time on music due to close nieghborhoods)?
Where do we have a cocktail hour, reception, ceremony?
How many people can you accomidate in the venue for plated dinners and/or buffet?
Is it less expensive on Fridays and Sundays vs. Saturday event?


Be open to venues there are ton of great places and if you find one you love work within their available dates than picking a date and trying to find a venue that fits within that limited time frame.  This will allow you a lot more options.

If you are getting married in Orlando there are a ton of great venues available, what are you looking for in your venue, approx. number of guests? The ladies on here can steer you towards good venues as well.

I personally think I wouldn't be able to do this without a wedding planner. I am using Ashlie from Weddings in the City, she is great!


Congrats on your engagement!

heatherR444

Thank you ladies for all the advice. I am in south florida but i will be getting married in central. Im sure i will need more help along the way. lol

Theresa626

I recommend Ashlie Hampton for DOC.  She is fabulous and there is a link to my review of her below.