Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experiences in life.
From choosing the right venue to finding the perfect way to thank your guests, here’s a full breakdown of everything you need to plan a wedding that’s beautiful, seamless and uniquely yours – including a creative tip for incorporating custom gift baskets that guests will never forget.
Picking the Perfect Wedding Venue
When choosing your venue, consider your guest count, budget and vision. Many venues offer onsite coordination, which can simplify your planning.
Check out some of these wedding venue search tools:
- Wedding Vendors & Services – The Knot
- Wedding Venues & Planning Tools | Wedding Spot
- Find Wedding Vendors – Zola
Hiring the Right DJ or Live Music
Music sets the tone for the entire celebration, from the first dance to the last call. Whether you want classic hits, country twang or Latin beats, book your entertainment early – and don’t forget to provide a “do not play” list!
Consider using sites like GigRoster or Thumbtack or to help you find the perfect match.
Food, Oh-so Glorious Food: Catering & Cake
Let’s be honest – guests remember two things: how fun the wedding was and how good the food tasted.
Popular options include:
- BBQ for relaxed celebrations
- Upscale plated dinners from top local chefs
- Food trucks for trendy, casual vibes
The Knot can help, as well as sites like Fash.
As for the cake, explore local bakeries for multi-tiered elegance or dessert tables filled with mini treats.Try using Bark to help you find the perfect cake.
Wedding Party & Guest Gifts That Stand Out
Thanking the people who make your day special is a big part of wedding etiquette. That’s where custom gift baskets can be a great solution. And there’s nobody better at custom gift baskets than Design It Yourself Gift Baskets!
Giving thank-you gifts to your wedding party, vendors and guests is one step in the wedding process that you can confidently hand over to their experts – making it completely stress-free and one less worry for you.
- Bridesmaid & Groomsmen Gifts: Think beyond flasks and robes – boring! Design It Yourself Gift Baskets offers customizable options with everything from spa goodies and gourmet snacks to mini bottles of bubbly. Add a personal touch with imprinted ribbon featuring your names or wedding date.
- Welcome Baskets for Out-of-Town Guests: What better way to say “thank you for coming” than with a personalized basket waiting at their hotel? Include water bottles, local snacks, a mini hangover kit and a personalized note. Bonus: You can tailor these to your wedding theme or local favorites.
- Parents & Vendors Thank You Gifts: Show appreciation to the people behind the scenes with a heartfelt, custom gourmet basket – especially for planners, photographers or your venue coordinator who went above and beyond.
With fast nationwide shipping, Design It Yourself Gift Baskets makes it easy to send personalized baskets no matter where your guests are traveling from!
Little Extras That Make a Big Difference
Don’t forget:
- Wedding website & RSVP tracking
- Seating chart planning
- Rain plan for outdoor venues
- Transportation & parking for guests
Details matter – and having a timeline (and maybe a wedding planner!) helps keep things stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Planning your dream wedding can feel like a lot, but when you break it down step-by-step – and lean on local resources – it becomes an exciting adventure.
And don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re thanking your bridal party or surprising guests, custom gift baskets are a meaningful way to add a personal, unforgettable touch to your big day.
