Welcome to The Hampton Roads Wedding Guide Newsletter where you can plan the wedding of your dreams from start to finish. From inspiration to checklists and planning articles, to the best wedding professionals in Hampton Roads, it's all here!

January 2019 Newsletter
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You're Engaged!

Heather Hughes Photography


Did you just get engaged over the holiday season? If so, congratulations! Now that we're half way through January, the reality sets in that you're engaged, but that also means it's time to start planning a wedding! But where do you start?

There are many things to consider when planning a wedding, but here are just a few to get you started. Also, don't forget to check out our planning tools over at the HRWG website.

Time of Year
If you've always dreamed of a winter wedding, you have plenty of time to plan the winter wedding of your dreams! If you've always wanted a spring garden wedding, maybe you want to have a 2020 wedding. Remember that while you can absolutely plan a wedding in just a few months, many venues and vendors book up months, or even YEARS, in advance, so it's best to either give yourself some more time or understand that you may not get your first choice. 

Wedding Size
Whether you're wedding guests will be in the hundreds, or you're planning a small, intimate affair, makes all the difference. A large wedding means you need a larger space. It also means it's going to cost more, so you need more time to save up for your dream day. Which leads to...

Budget
The elephant in the room is weddings can be expensive- so how are you planning on paying for the day and where can you cut costs? The best advice is to come up with a firm budget (understanding that there should be a little wiggle room for last minute details), and then prioritize your expenses. If the photographer is the most important thing to you, make sure you allot a good part of your budget for that. If the venue of your dreams is going to cost more, look to cut costs in other areas. But don't forget that your wedding size and your budget go hand in hand. 
First Things First: an Engagement Session
 
Will Hawkins Photography

An engagement session is a great way to get excited about your wedding day, especially if you're starting to feel overwhelmed or stressed. It's a chance for you to work with your photographer (many of whom offer complimentary engagement sessions with their wedding packages- so make sure you ask!), and it's a great opportunity to have a little fun and romance before the big day. Here is a list of our preferred photographers, all of whom are wonderful!


What's Your Vision
And How Can it Fit in the Budget?

Heather Hughes Photography

If you're looking for a DIY feel to your wedding day, that's a much different budget than an elegant, grand affair. A backyard ceremony and reception is going to cost much less than a ballroom in a large venue. It's all about the kind of vision you have for your day. But, that being said, there are many ways to cut costs and still have the wedding you've always dreamed of.

Remember that DIY doesn't always necessarily mean it will cost less. By the time you add up all of the supplies you have to purchase in order to make whatever it is you want to make, could you have paid someone to do the same? Many brides opt to DIY signage, centerpieces, and other touches throughout the wedding and if crafting is your thing, you can certainly make it beautiful and budget friendly.

For some brides, the thought of DIY wedding decor is another added layer of stress. If that sounds like you, the great news is here in Hampton Roads we have so many amazing vendors that can help you with each aspect. Shop around to find the one who will give you what you're looking for at the cost that will work for your budget. Keep in mind that there may be some give and take. 

Head over to our website and utilize our Budget Calculator to help you stay on track.
Featured Vendor
Daissy Torres Photography

Daissy Torres Photography

Daissy Torres is the kind of photographer that wants to tell a story with her work. She is looking for those magical moments that capture a feeling in time- a stolen kiss between the bride and groom, a flower girl running with glee, a father of the bride shedding a tear as he sees his little girl in her wedding gown for the first time. At the end of the day, she wants to make sure that your photos capture the essence of the day and that when you look back on them, you'll be able to remember the amazing day you said "I do". 

When you head over to her website, you'll see that Daissy offers a variety of photography options and can work with your budget. 

Daissy Torres Photography
Real Weddings

One of the first things you'll want to consider when planning your wedding is if you even want to be the one planning it all! A great wedding coordinator can help you with all the details so it can take so much stress out of what is supposed to be FUN. 

Baxter's Creative Events planned and coordinated this gorgeous 1920s inspired wedding. The bride had a vision of incorporating vintage details, including beautiful suitcases and a vintage car. 
The wedding was held at the stunning Chrysler Museum of Art. 

Like a Dream Photography

Palette of Petals designed  all the lovely centerpieces and bouquet.

Like a Dream Photography

Like a Dream Photography

Upcoming Bridal Shows

January in Chesapeake Bridal Expo
01/20/2019 @ 2:00 pm -  5:00 pm
$10 per person or purchase a bridal party pass that allows up to 5 people for $25
Chesapeake Conference Center

Love Story Bridal Expo
01/27/2019 @  2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
www.showbride.com
Kiln Creek Golf Club & Resort

Ford's Colony Sip & See
02/09/2019 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
A date night style event limited to 75 couples
Ford's Colony Country Club


Ford's Colony Sip & See




David Schwartz Photography
Check Out Our Latest Issue!

The latest issue of Hampton Roads Wedding Guide is available in  over 50 locations throughout  Hampton Roads as well as digitally on our website. For a complete list of where you can find a copy check out our website! 

In our latest issue you can learn more about all of the incredible vendors we have featured, from venues to photographers to delicious catering options. Plus, you can learn some great tips for your big day!



"Marriage is not a noun; it's a verb. It isn't something you get. It's something you do. It's the way you love your partner every day."
-Barbara de Angelis
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