5 Splurge Worthy Vendors for Your Wedding
The impact COVID-19 has had on our weddings and events is unlike anything the industry has ever experienced. Wedding vendors and engaged couples are now required to rethink how to plan a wedding, including how to allocate their budget. While you're considering how to move forward with planning, here are some ideas on how to spend and where to save.
1. Food and beverage
In the future, past the pandemic, there will be significant emphasis on enjoying the company of your loved ones. The best way to set the stage for a guaranteed great time with family and friends is excellent food and drink.
You'll probably opt for a plated meal service as opposed to buffet or family-style; however, that doesn't mean your event needs to be stuffy or formal. If you've always dreamed of live oyster shucking at your wedding, this is the type of thing I suggest splurging on. Upgrade your bar, plan for double the desserts, and don't skip the late-night snacks. Some of the best conversations and memories are created over great meals, and now's the time to create great memories with your closest friends and family after an extended time apart.
2. Music
A great meal with your closest family and friends must have an epic soundtrack. And, if all goes well, you'll get an epic dance party going once everyone has been wined and dined!
A reputable DJ is a must. In terms of energy, the DJ is instrumental in keeping an event moving in the right direction. Not only do they have to play the right music to set the mood throughout the day (romantic for the ceremony, vibe-y for cocktails, swanky for dinner, and energetic for dancing), they have to be able to adapt if the mood changes or if the party needs a burst of energy and an unexpected moment.
And please be sure to invest in a DJ who doesn't spend too much time on the microphone. Again, the emphasis for events immediately following the pandemic will be spending time with loved ones, and you don't need a DJ's voice soundtracking the event.
3. Photography
Photography is always worth a splurge. Once the wedding is said and done, your most lasting, tangible reminder, aside from your new spouse and some fantastic wedding gifts, will be your wedding photos. Don't skip on this.
If your photographer offers a package with 6 hours, upgrade to at least 8. If your photographer has a package with only one shooter, upgrade to include a second. Additional hours of coverage and an additional shooter will give you more photos and more angles; however, more importantly, it will ensure that you're not rushing through the day to fit everything in before the photographer leaves.
4. Videography
The pandemic has shifted the importance of videography. For couples with the budget for video, it's always been a must; however, this is a service to splurge on right now, no matter what your budget. Similar to photography, a video is a lasting, tangible memory from your wedding day – one of only a few. Since it's been so long since you've seen some of your closest family and friends, you'll definitely want to capture the party on video. There are sure to be some moments with your loved ones that you won't want to forget.
5. Event planning and coordination
A bit of a shameless plug, but expert event planning[MK1] and coordination are essential – always have been, always will be. A planner can do everything from helping you allocate your budget to ensuring the day is as smooth and carefree as possible. As one of your closest confidants during your time as an engaged couple, your planner can hone in on the things that are most important to you and help create a day that encompasses all you value as you start your new life together. Be sure to get a great planner to help you on this journey!
3 ways to save
While considering where to splurge, you'll also need to decide where to save to make up for those splurges. Here are a few of my suggestions:
1. Wedding party. At the point in which I'm writing this, a wedding party feels excessive. I can envision a time (hopefully soon) where I might feel differently; however, shopping for bridesmaids’ dresses seems unimportant in the current situation. I'm sure that everyone has friends and family who've played an essential role in their personal development, and it's important to recognize those individuals. But something that feels more significant, at this moment, is quality time. Jump on the phone with the people who would have been a part of your wedding party more often, write them a heartfelt note, or make a donation in their name.
2. Over-the-top décor. With a greater focus on quality time with family and friends, over-the-top decor also feels out of place. And I love over-the-top decor. I cannot wait for it to come back. But for the time being, simply stated, beautiful decor that enhances the natural setting of your wedding location is best. And you'll save a lot of money with this approach.
3. Smaller guest count. When putting together your guest list, spend extra time considering whom to invite. I suggest that couples think critically about how to include those who are at higher risk during the pandemic – be it the elderly or people with pre-existing conditions – or have to travel long distances to attend. I think it will be acceptable for the next couple of years to keep guests lists small. Also, for those invited to attend a wedding this summer: If it was hard getting a "plus one" added as your guest in the past, it's going to be even harder now, so don't ask. Wedding invitations will be reserved for the couple's most inner circle, and I feel like this is understandable.
There are a lot of big decisions that lie ahead for couples planning weddings this year; however, I think it's most important to remember that the whole purpose of a wedding is to start the rest of your life with your best friend! Everything will be FINE! Promise!
