National Wedding Month is celebrated in February, when love is already in the air, thanks to Valentine's Day. Contrary to what one might expect, February is not the month with the most weddings; instead, it's a period when many couples start their wedding planning journey.
Did you know February 14 ranks just behind New Year’s Day for the number of wedding proposals? This designation for National Wedding Month marks the romantic significance of February and encourages couples to begin preparing for one of the most memorable days of their lives. National Wedding Month serves as a reminder of the joy, love, and commitment that weddings represent, offering an ideal kickoff point for couples to dive into the extensive planning process that lies ahead.
Insider Tips for Planning Your Wedding
Planning a wedding can be as daunting as it is exciting. Here are some tips to consider, with examples of how venues can help couples navigate the ins and outs of getting ready for their big day.
Establish a budget that reflects your priorities for your big day. Start by having an open conversation with all contributing parties (including yourselves, parents, or any other family members) to determine the total budget. Understanding the full extent of your available resources is critical before making any commitments.
Next, prioritize your expenses. Not all aspects of a wedding hold equal importance to every couple. List out the components of your wedding day (venue, catering, attire, entertainment, photography, etc.) and rank them according to your priorities. This exercise helps ensure that you allocate more of your budget to areas that matter most to you.
The venue is the backdrop of your wedding, influencing the atmosphere, photos, and guest experience. Whether you go for an understated country wedding or a black-tie affair on the beach, your venue is one of the most important choices you’ll make for your special day. Look for venues that offer on-site amenities such as catering, decor, furniture, and AV equipment, which can significantly reduce logistical stress and coordination efforts.
Photo Credit: The Valley Venues
If your love story is like a scene out of The Notebook, consider a venue that captures the essence of a bygone era, like The Valley Venues. Nestled within 74 acres of breathtaking property, The Valley Venues, a captivating wedding and event venue outside Chattanooga, TN, is now open and accepting reservations for 2024. Established in 2023 by Kobi Cummings, this extraordinary location has a rich history as a cherished family estate before transforming into a haven for celebrations.
The Valley Venues has four distinct event spaces, each with a unique character and vibe, so you can choose the space that fits your vision for your big day. From enchanting valley views to grand halls and a stunning modern deck with panoramic mountain views, guests can immerse themselves in another world inspired by the power of true love. Best of all, your wedding guests can stay on-site at The Valley Venues. Accommodations include a charming lodge for up to 14 guests and four delightful one- and two-bedroom cabins, with a total capacity of up to 32 lodged guests across the property.
The look and feel of your wedding set the tone for your big day. And it’s more than just decorations. Your wedding theme will influence your choices, from your menu and music to the style of your invites and your event decor.
If you have more room in your budget, consider hiring a wedding decorator or designer. Your wedding decorator can help you plan design elements of your wedding that work for your specific venue. Usually, a wedding designer partners with your wedding planner and florist to bring your vision to life on your big day. From floral arrangements and drapery to lighting and props, wedding decorators have the skills and resources to transform a venue into a captivating space that reflects your unique style and personality.
The Valley Venues offers an authentic commitment to personalization and service. They can help you with recommendations for local vendors and ideas and suggestions for decor for the different event locales. Couples can also choose from an extensive on-site decor inventory featuring various backdrops, signage, and arches. That means you can choose a look and feel that resonates with your style and vision without using another vendor.
Whether you prefer a formal sit-down dinner or a casual buffet, your menu should reflect your taste and theme. Crafting the perfect menu will wow your guests and help you create a memorable wedding experience.
One of the best things about Valley Venues is their flexibility. They understand that every wedding is unique, and they connect you with local caterers and can help you create a menu that fits your story. They’ll also work with you to determine the best serving style for your event: a casual backyard barbecue, a formal sit-down dinner, or somewhere in between. Valley Venues partners with esteemed caterers, offering customizable menu options catering to various culinary preferences.
So whether you’re having your dream wedding in the countryside at The Valley Venues (great choice!) or catering your wedding at a toney downtown loft, choose menus and catering options to create an amazing dining experience for your big day.
Think beyond the wedding day to the overall experience of your guests. If you’re planning adestination wedding, choose a location that offers a variety of activities, sights, and attractions that guests can enjoy during their stay. Or, if you’re staying closer to home, provide a list of recommended activities and transportation options in your hometown to make the trip more enjoyable and memorable for everyone attending.
Chattanooga, nestled along the Tennessee River against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, offers something for everyone, including cafes, art galleries, and museums. Explore the wonders of the Tennessee Aquarium, where river otters and penguins play. For outdoor enthusiasts, the trails of Signal Mountain provide unforgettable hiking experiences. Don’t miss walking across the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges, for panoramic city views.
Planning a wedding is all about details, dreams, and decisions. National Wedding Month not only marks the beginning of this beautiful journey for many couples but serves as a reminder of the love and commitment that weddings symbolize. Couples can navigate the planning process with confidence and creativity by following these suggestions.
Choosing Valley Venues as the backdrop for your special day adds unparalleled elegance, flexibility, and convenience to your wedding planning. With its diverse range of stunning venues, personalized services, and picturesque settings, Valley Venues ensures each wedding is as unique and memorable as the couple celebrating their union. Whether you dream of a grand, lavish ceremony or an intimate, cozy gathering, Valley Venues offers the perfect setting to bring your wedding dreams to life.
As we celebrate National Wedding Month, let's embrace the joy of planning and the beauty of commitment. Here's to planning the wedding of your dreams in a venue that exceeds every expectation.
