Choose a venue that you’re REALLY excited about. . . check!

Find a caterer who serves amazing locally sourced fare. . . check!

Prioritize vendors who are most important to you, at this point, it’s probably photography! Book a photog whose work you love and who’s vibe you resonate with — they’re going to be a big energetic part of your day!

COLORS. Determine your style and vibe! If you’re having a wedding party, their attire can elevate a look you’re going for. Yes, scroll on Pinterest for inspo, but don’t be afraid to go outside of the box and make creative decisions that feel authentically YOU.

This goes for your decor and signage as well! You’ve booked a gorgeous venue, dripping in incredible evergreen gardens with really cool architecture. You don’t need much at MHOF, so unless you have an elaborate floral vision that must come to life, book one of our recommended florists to make the wedding party florals, centerpieces add a little something here and there.

Don’t skimp on the DJ / live music!! It’s the #1 thing you can do to add to the ambiance and feeling of the evening. Not only do they help build you an epic soundtrack to the backdrop of your day, but these guys really contribute to the flow of things. You’ll see my faves in the preferred guide.

Hair and Make-up. DO THE TRIAL. Speaking from experience here, I’m just going to leave it at that. Also, if you want a natural vs more glam look, book someone who’s portfolio has your style. There are teams of folks who do both hair and makeup and individual artists who just do one or the other. Do your homework and reach out ASAP, the talented ladies on my list book quick.

Dessert. There are so many fun ways you can go with this — from delicious locally made wedding cake, fruit pies or custom desert bar.

Book the Photo Booth! Talk about entertainment, memory keeper and guest gifts all in one. I might own the cutest Photo Booth you’ve ever seen… check out thefotobus.co ;)

DON’T DIY TOO MUCH! Forreals, just take it off your list or hire a pro to help you out… unless you’re a hell-bent super talented crafter, and in that case — start your projects ASAP! (I miiiiight have been stringing strawflowers and gluing together boutineers a couple days before my wedding - don’t be like me in this case!)

Divide tasks between you, your fiance and your planner in a way that makes sense for your strengths. Make sure that you are taking on tasks that suit the parts of your day you’re most passionate about and your skills are most suited to, and lean on a coordinator for the rest!

On that note, if you are a super busy woman/man/power couple that just ain’t got time for this ish but still want an exquisite wedding day. . . book a planner. They’re worth it, I promise.

Now I’m going to contradict myself and say — if you’re getting married at MHOF, follow all of my instructions, are super well organized and detail oriented — you don’t neeeeed to book a planner. Between my team and the staff at the farm, we more than have you covered!