Your Venue Search, Simplified — with Gloria Schulz Events

WRITTEN BY Gloria Schulz Events | FEATURE PHOTO BY HeartBrave Studios

In the midst of dreaming up your perfect day, soon comes the big question: Where will you celebrate your wedding?

Choosing your wedding venue is the first and most important decision in the planning process. It sets the vibe, influences your guest list and claims one of the largest portions of your wedding budget. It can feel a little overwhelming, I know! But don’t worry, with our expert guidance and a clear vision, you’ll find the perfect spot to say “I do.” (more…)

Why Every Engaged Couple Needs Premarital Counseling (Even If You Think You’re Fine) — with Atlanta Marriage Prep

WRITTEN BY Dr. Kimberly Smiley, Atlanta Marriage Prep | FEATURE PHOTO BY Ashley White Photos

If that sounds like you, first — congratulations! It’s a great sign that you’re starting your relationship from a place of connection and peace. But here’s the truth: It’s not only struggling couples who benefit from premarital counseling. In fact, the strongest, happiest, most prepared couples are often the ones who actively choose to invest in their relationship before problems arise.

Think of it this way: If you were about to build a dream home, would you start pouring concrete without a blueprint just because the land looks solid? Of course not. Premarital counseling is your relationship blueprint and the intentional planning that ensures your love story is built to last through every high and every hard season.

Another metaphor I like to use with couples is this: Premarital counseling is to an engaged couple like personal training is to an elite athlete. You, the engaged couple, already have a foundation of skills. You got this far, right? Premarital counseling will fortify those strengths and build skills where there are opportunities to do so.

Here, I’m busting the biggest myths about counseling, explaining why “low-conflict” doesn’t mean “low-risk” and revealing what healthy, aligned couples gain from investing in premarital counseling before they say “I do.” (more…)

How to Actually Get the Wedding You Want (on a Realistic Budget) — with Vows & Visions Weddings

WRITTEN BY Jennifer Yoder, Vows & Visions | PHOTOGRAPHY BY The Taylors

If you’ve ever searched “wedding budget” online, you’ve probably seen some terrifying numbers. And yes, weddings can get expensive, especially when Pinterest dreams collide with real-world pricing. But here’s the good news: a beautiful, memorable wedding that reflects your style and values is absolutely possible at almost any price point.

The key is being realistic, creative and intentional. Whether your budget is $20,000, $50,000 or in the six-digit arena, there are ways to be strategic with your dollars without sacrificing the experience you want. So let’s talk about how to actually get the wedding you want — all while sticking to a budget that works for you. (more…)

What to Expect When You Hire a Live Band for Your Wedding Reception – with Emerald Empire Band

When you picture your dream wedding reception, you probably imagine laughter, dancing and that electric feeling when everyone is swept up in the moment. Music is what ties all those memories together. And while playlists or DJs can keep the night moving, it’s hard to compare to the energy of a live band. A live band doesn’t just provide background sound — they create an experience.

If you’re considering live music for your big day, the entertainment pros at Emerald Empire Band have gathered some advice on what you can expect when you bring a professional wedding band into the mix. (more…)

Why You Should Consider a Sunday Wedding

WRITTEN BY Lauren Pelissier, 42West | Photography by Lily & Lime

When it comes to choosing the perfect day for a wedding, many couples find themselves drawn to the charm and uniqueness of a Sunday celebration. While Saturday has long been the traditional choice, Sunday weddings are quickly gaining popularity, and for good reason! Let’s dive into why, in our opinion, Sunday weddings are simply the best! (more…)

Just In Case — Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Preparing for anything will keep your wedding day running smoothly. Whether your wedding is hosted near or far, you’ll want to have a wedding day tool kit packed full of essentials and “in case of emergency” items. Consider packing these goods as you arrive on your big day. (more…)

Wedding Dress Shopping Tips

Feature Photo by Heirloom Foto (See More From Bailey & Matt’s Wedding Here)

Finding “the dress” is often at the top of every nearlywed’s to-do list, but it can also feel like one of the most daunting tasks to tackle. With a little preparation and the right mindset, however, dress shopping can become one of the most enjoyable, memory-making experiences all on its own. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your dress shopping day! (more…)

What’s New Around Atlanta: January 2025

Feature photo: Electric Room by Electric Hospitality

The Atlanta area is full of new and notable businesses to bring your wedding to life. Here are a few of our top picks!

The Dogwood

Photo by The Decisive Moment/Jes McGowan

950 W. Marietta St. NW, Ste. B-140 | Atlanta, GA 30318
[email protected] | thedogwoodatl.com

Located in Atlanta’s West Midtown, The Dogwood at Westside Paper is a brand-new wedding venue that brings an elevated, luxe-industrial aesthetic to the city’s event scene. Bathed in calming neutral tones and filled with natural light, The Dogwood offers two spacious ballrooms, a versatile pre-function area, and a scenic outdoor terrace, making it ideal for seamlessly hosting both ceremonies and receptions. Blending the charm of its warehouse origins with refined finishes, The Dogwood delivers an inviting and sophisticated ambiance. Conveniently close to Georgia Tech, Midtown Atlanta and Downtown’s main attractions, The Dogwood is set to become a go-to destination for unforgettable celebrations. (more…)

Exploring the Various Tiers of Wedding Planning Services

FEATURED PHOTO BY Stepping Stones Photography | PICTURED: Stunning & Brilliant Events

Planning your wedding should be as exciting as saying “yes!” — not a source of stress. Luckily, wedding planning services come in all shapes and sizes, designed to fit any need and budget. Here’s a quick guide to the main options: full-service planner, partial-service planner, month-of coordinator, day-of coordinator and venue coordinator. Each tier offers a different level of support, so you can pick the one that makes your big day feel effortless. (more…)

The Big Picture: Your Wedding Photo Guide

Feature Photo by Brandi Toole Photo

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of champagne toasts, teary smiles and wild dance moves you may never believe you pulled off. Spoiler alert: the day itself might fly by, but the memories? Those are forever. So, how do you make sure every magical moment gets captured and preserved? Enter your trusty photographer, their shot list and a carefully crafted photography timeline.

Your wedding photos will live on your Instagram feed, hold a permanent spot on Grandma’s mantel and, someday, 30 years down the road, make your future kids marvel at your gorgeous love story. Here’s how to help your photographer capture every swoon-worthy second.

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What Really Affects Your Wedding Costs? – with Gloria Schulz Events

WRITTEN BY Gloria Schulz, Gloria Schulz Events| FEATURE PHOTO BY Katie James Photography

“How much will my wedding cost?” — as a wedding planner, I hear this question a lot! While the answer varies based on several factors, three key elements tend to have the biggest impact on the overall budget. By understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to plan and allocate your resources wisely. Here are the top three areas we recommend prioritizing:

  1. Guest List Size
  2. Venue Choice
  3. Wedding Date

Let’s dive into why these pieces impact your wedding budget and offer some tips for managing costs along the way. (more…)