How to Choose Your Bridal Party

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How to Choose Your Bridal Party

Lovebirds —

Welcome back to the We Do Weddings Blog! We are so excited you are here!
How is wedding planning going? Are you having fun? Have you found your venue yet?

We are so eager to help you with all the fun details!

Have you ever heard the sentiment that it takes a village? It is one of our favorites and you have probably heard us harp on and on about it before…but today we are going to talk about the personal village that is standing beside you on your biggest day.

That’s right, today we are going to talk about your Bridal Party and How to Choose them!

We have a couple ideas when it comes to selecting the people who will support you most on your wedding day, so let’s get started!

How to Choose Your Bridal Party:

Size Matters

When it comes to selecting the amount of people you want for your bridal party, it is important to think about a couple things. First, do you want it to be even on both sides– do you want your partner to have the same amount of people as you do? If so, make sure each side has enough people to fit that number. Next, having a bridal party means expenses — thank you gifts. Make sure it is in the budget if you are planning on having a large bridal party!

 

Think Twice

Sometimes people think just because they have been asked to be someone’s bridal party participant before that they must choose that person in return. Absolutely not. You really want to be thoughtful in who you end up choosing. It can be friends, family members, children — whoever you really want to be a part of your day!

 

Think Responsibility 

Being a bridal party member is not all fun and fluff! It takes work and it is beyond stressful if your members are not helpful. When you are thinking about the people to include in your group, think about people who will ease your stress and actually make the day better! Those are the people you want surrounding you on such an important day.

 

Think About All The Roles

If you have people you want to include, but don’t necessarily want them in your bridal party — think about other roles they can do. They might be better as ushers, ceremony readers, toasters, etc. You can find a special something for them even if that means they are not in the bridal party.

 

Don’t Feel The Pressure

Like with everything else on a wedding day, everyone is going to have an opinion. The most important opinion is YOURS and your PARTNER’s. Make sure not to cave into what everyone else thinks and wants. If there is someone you do not want in the group, then that is ok! Follow your gut and your heart here.

We hope these little tips are helpful lovebirds. Again, there are so many ways and reasons wedding planning can be stressful but don’t let this fun piece of the puzzle become a problem! Pick the people you want and love and need and you cannot go wrong!

Have any questions?

Let us know!

We are here, always excited to help!

Otherwise, cheers to love and support!

C+K

Welcome to We Do Weddings!

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Hello

This is our first official blog post and we are so excited to say hello!

First things first, we are Conor and Kaitlyn — the gals behind WDW. Both native Austinites and lovers of all things weddings, we are beyond thrilled to be able to work with each of you and help you during your wedding planning journey!

To get started, we thought we would showcase the 5 W’s of We Do Weddings: the Who, the What, the When, the Where, and the Why. This way you can learn more about the website, our hopes for helping you, and the reason and way We Do Weddings came to be. So, here we go!

Who:

We Do Weddings, that’s who! Conor and Kaitlyn (us) are the people behind it all. We are sending emails, doing social media posts, are on set for photoshoots, talking to you about your wedding hopes and dreams!

What:

A new matchmaking service that helps you, as a couple pair with your perfect wedding venue for your perfect timeline.

When:

You can use We Do Weddings anytime! The best part about this site is that you can visit it and use it as much as you like throughout your wedding planning process. It is free and is always available for your use.

Where:

Currently, we are serving the Central Texas and Houston area couples. We started in Texas because we are in Texas! We Do Weddings is a local business out of Austin, Texas. We are excited to continue to grow further into Texas regions and then throughout The United States. Big dreams!

Why:

Two years ago the planning and creation of We Do Weddings began. The whole reason we thought about this concept was because our owners, wedding venue owners, were meeting couples who wanted to get married in a shorter amount of time and they couldn’t accommodate their booking needs because they were already booked.

Then, the Covid Pandemic happened and couples needed help as their timelines were extended and things had to be moved…which made the vision of the website shift. Instead of just helping couples with a smaller engagement window, we wanted to help ALL couples find their dream wedding venue.

Plus, we love supporting our local friendors and wanted to help everyone fill their calendars back up as the world weathered the Covid storm.

SO! We Do Weddings was born.

Now, you know a little bit about us and our hopes to help you along your wedding planning journey.

We would love to hear from you! Where are you from? When are you getting married? Where do you want to get married? How can we help you?!

Pick our brains, that is what we are here for 24/7. We are just an email away and are always excited to chat. Whether it be about venue searching or anything wedding related, we love it all!

Please reach out to hello@we-doweddings.com if you ever need a thing!

Until then, enjoy the site, take a look at our social media and follow us for more ideas/tips/inspiration.

Happy wedding planning and cheers to you!
C+K

To Elope Or Not To Elope

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To Elope Or Not To Elope

Welcome back lovebirds!

Today we are talking about a very hot topic: Micro Weddings and Elopements.

We know we have done a blog on this subject before…BUT today we are talking about the idea and question of whether or not you should elope…

As you know, 2020 was the year of the smaller event thanks to Covid.

Now, 2021 has been more about celebrating and finally getting to WED — BUT — micro weddings and elopements are still happening.

Are you wondering why?

We think this is a trend to stay. There is a lot to be said about the positive points for doing smaller affairs and we are going to run through some reasons on why you still might want to elope or do a micro wedding despite Covid not being the determining factor.

To Elope Or Not To Elope

Reasons TO ELOPE:

Budget Friend

Smaller weddings mean smaller guest counts which means a lot more money to go things you want to spend your budget on: photographer, food, honeymoon, etc.

Intimacy and Meaningful

Sometimes when you have a big day, it can feel a little less special and more like a show. If you have a smaller event then you may feel like you can really connect with the people who are there.

Venue/Vendor Availability

Micro weddings and elopements typically happen during the weekday or in slower seasons for wedding planning. Also, due to their size this may mean that venues and vendors have more flexibility to schedule them!

Destination Wedding Fun

When you think on a smaller scale, this might make traveling to your dream wedding destination more of a possibility! Plus, guests might be able to make it on the trip too!

Less Stress

If you are just focused on getting married and not all the fuss that can surround larger days, the likelihood that your stress level goes down goes way up!

Now, if you are wondering if there are any reasons to possibly not think smaller when it comes to your wedding, here are some reasons we came up:

Reasons to possibly NOT Elope

Inability To Celebrate With Everyone

When you go to a smaller type event, that usually means not being able to invite everyone you know to your big day. This can sometimes risk hurting people’s feelings or even make you sad not to see all the faces you want to see.

Not Getting Your “Dream Wedding”

By doing a more intimate event, some people worry that they are risking the ability to have that wedding they have always dreamt of. They think smaller means losing out on detail or sentiment…

Not as Traditional

With the idea of doing this newer “cooler” type of wedding, it is some people’s opinions that tradition of a “big day” will be lost if you do a micro wedding or elopement.

So, as you can see lovebirds, like with anything in life, there are pro’s and con’s to the idea of eloping..

We are big fans though and as we can see in the Central Texas area, lots of couples are loving this new idea and option for their special day too.

Need help knowing what venues can help you with your micro wedding or elopement?

Let us know and we will connect you with your favorite venues to discuss availability and smaller options 🙂

Until then, we can’t wait to hear about all  your planning adventures! 

Cheers to love and cheers to intimate events!

C+K

Tips for Enjoying Wedding Planning

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Tips for Enjoying Wedding Planning

 

Welcome back to the WDW Blog, lovebirds!

 

Today we are talking about a subject you know we are all too passionate about: wedding planning!

 

Since we help you with one of the first steps of wedding planning, it is important to us to help you throughout the rest of the planning journey too.

 

Wedding planning can be so hard. It is a brand new endeavor that you have never tackled before and most likely never will again either. 

 

There are so many details, so many costs, so many questions! It can be completely overwhelming!

 

However, if done correctly, wedding planning can be really exciting and enjoyable too!

Here are some of our favorite tips for making the process a lot more fun and lot less hectic for you and your love!

 

Tips for Enjoying Wedding Planning

 

Hire HELP!

We know we might sound like a broken record, but this is the most important piece of advice we can give you: HIRE A PLANNER/COORDINATOR.

These professionals are incredible and are going to make the wedding planning process so much better for you. They will help you with timeline, details, bookings, etc. Trust us, if you are feeling overwhelmed you are going to feel so much better when you hire someone to help with all the little details you haven’t even thought of yet!

 

Hire Help You Connect With!

Hiring people you bond with is also SO important. If you hire someone you don’t like or don’t trust it is not going to help anything. In fact, it may do the exact opposite and make you feel even more stressed! No fun! Make sure you really vet the people you hire, interview them, see if you can really get along with them before putting them on the job.

 

Take Time Off

You might feel like planning your wedding is a second job. In some ways, it kind of is, especially if you are on a tight timeline. However, just like a normal job, it is ok to take time off! If you need a day (not weeks or months!!) to clear your mind and not think about all things wedding, take the day to have a little break. The break will help immensely and you will be ready to jump back in and tackle more details when you revisit everything.

 

Make it a Team Effort

You don’t have to go through this alone. After all, you are getting married to someone, so let that special someone help you and jump in! They say there is strength in numbers, so let your partner join in on the fun, make decisions and be collaborative with you! It will make the process all the more special too if you work together because come wedding day you can look at the amazing day you created together!

 

Make it Fun

Wedding planning doesn’t mean you have to be on the computer or on the phone all day bored and alone. Especially if you have your partner helping out, make it a fun and relaxing experience. Maybe go on a date and during the date look at all the florists you love on Instagram. Eating and planning can totally go hand in hand. Plus what is more romantic than talking about your upcoming wedding day??

 

Hopefully all these little tips will make your wedding planning process much smoother, lovebirds!

 

It is our hope for you all that you love the journey and enjoy every moment that leads up to your special day.

 

If you are struggling or need more help, let us know! That is why we are here. 

 

Until then, take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and watch your beautiful wedding unfold!

 

Cheers,

C+K

 

WDW Venue Showcase: Mae’s Ridge

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WDW Venue Showcase: Mae’s Ridge

 

Hello again, lovebirds!

 

Today we are shedding some light on an amazing venue that we love called, Mae’s Ridge.

 

Just outside of Dripping Springs, the chic and modern barn overlooks 28 acres of incredible Hill Country Views.  

The interior is crisp and sophisticated. Like nothing else we see in the area! This venue is one of a kind and we could not recommend it enough if this is the aesthetic you want for your wedding day!

 

Ready to learn more about the amazing Mae’s Ridge?

 

Here is some history:

Joell and Rick Ebbert (the owners) have built and remodeled several homes in California, Colorado and Austin.  Joell has been an Interior Designer for 20 years and has worked on the Property Brothers HGTV series– no detail goes unnoticed!

Known as the ultimate entertainers, Joell and Rick throw parties quite often for 100+ of their closest friends and needed a space to host outside of their home.  This lead to the building of Mae’s Ridge.  Friends and family are what life is all about for the Ebberts and you are assured that they have thought of every detail to make sure your celebration.

And boy did they! From the bridal suite to the sprawling grounds, every single back drop for your wedding day will be absolutely stunning.

 

Pricing:

Monday- Thursday- $4,000 (11:00- 10:00)

Friday- $7,000  (11:00- 11:00)

Saturday- $9,000 (11:00- 11:00)

Sunday- $6,000 (11:00- 10:00)

These hours may be moved up by 2 hours (example 9:00 am to 9:00 pm).

**They allow one extra hour for clean up.

 

Planner needed?

Yes! They require you to have a “Day of” Coordinator or wedding planner so your day runs smoothly.  We can offer a list of our favorites for you to choose from and work directly with.

 

Amenities included:

– A climate controlled, modern farmhouse-style barn for indoor ceremony and/or reception

– 250 folding white ceremony chairs

– 250 rattan and white reception chairs (which are unique to Mae’s Ridge)

– Round tables for 250, cake and buffet tables

– Several gorgeous settings for ceremony spots including The Grove and Sunset Ridge and the Pavilion

– Indoor/outdoor bar and patio including a lush green lawn for lawn games and cocktail hour 

– Gorgeous bridal lounge with private bathroom and shower

– New Groom’s (or extra wedding party) room with lounge, bar, TV, covered patio

-Vendors extra room

– 2 hour photo session

– 1 hour rehearsal (time and date permitting when there is not an event) You may use this as an extra hour for on your wedding day (prior).

– An amazing preferred vendor list to assure you are in best hands

– Several fun photo  spots including: with Rusty (our cute truck that always has a smile on his face), our distressed barn with a turquoise barn door, and 360 degrees of amazing Hill Country Views

 

Have you fallen in love yet, lovebirds? We bet so!

Mae’s Ridge is always offering tours. Go there for yourself and fall in love. You will not be sorry!

If you would like us to connect you with this amazing venue, let us know too! We are here to help!

Until next time, lovebirds!

Cheers to amazing venues and cheers to LOVE,

C+K

 

**All information taken from Mae’s Ridge website**

 

 

 

Wedding Seasons: Pro’s and Con’s

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Wedding Seasons: Pro’s and Con’s

Hi there lovebirds!

Can you believe August is just around the corner??

That means that Fall weddings will soon be upon us…but with the weather still telling us it is very much summer, it has us thinking about ALL the wedding seasons.


With every season there are Pro’s and Con’s to getting married due to the time of year and what the weather has to offer.

Today we wanted to give you a little food for thought snippets when it comes to thinking about when you might want to have your wedding.


Take a look at just a handful of things to consider when picking the season for your big day!

Wedding Seasons: Pro’s and Con’s

Fall

Pro’s:

  1. The Beautiful Weather — Fall is stunning and gorgeous. There is a reason it is the favorite peak season for weddings in Texas. The climate is lovely, the scenery is gorgeous, the beauty is like no other season!
  2. Less is More — Because Fall is such a beautiful season, you really don’t have to worry about decor as much. You can let your surroundings do the talking — or simply decorate with fall themed elements like pumpkins or lanterns.

Con’s:

  1. Holiday Timing — After Halloween, the rest of the year is surrounded and based off of Holidays. Thanksgiving and December based holidays keep everyone busy, so you may possibly need to consider this when it comes to guest availability.
  2. Indoor Options Might Be Hard to Come By — Due to the fact that Fall is a peak season, it may be hard to secure any venue — but specifically booking an indoor facility might be hard too. Be sure to plan ahead of time!

Winter

Pro’s:

  1. Lower $$$ — You have to love the budget friendly seasons. Winter is a slower season for weddings in Texas so that most likely means that venues and vendors may have better pricing if you are wanting to stick to a budget.
  2. So Romantic — Winter means all the romantic things, candlelight, snuggles, warming beverages…it is all so romantic! This is a great element that goes hand in hand with weddings. What is better than a romance filled wedding?

Con’s:

  1. Baby, it is COLD Outside — The likelihood that a winter wedding is going to be chilly is high. Consider this when thinking about if a venue has warming options for guests and your attire too! You don’t want to feel icy come wedding day.
  2. Shorter Picture Windows — In the winter, the sun goes down SO early — that means that you are going to want to plan with your photographer about an earlier timeline for your big day. You don’t want to miss out on the golden hour shots!

Spring 

Pro’s: 

  1. Nature Speaks For Itself — Spring is so gorgeous! From the blooming buds, to the abundance of greenery — this season gives you such a lovely natural background for your big day.
  2. Picture Perfection — the capabilities you have for pictures — timing, lighting, etc. are pure perfection. 

Con’s:

  1. Competition is Stiff — Due to this being the MOST popular wedding season in Texas, there is a good chance that you might have to wait or really plan ahead for your wedding. Spring dates are the first to go so beware!
  2. Beware of Allergies — If you are a Texan, you know what we mean here. Pack some tissues and drink lots of water. The sneezing is bound to happen.

Summer

Pro’s:

  1. Open Calendars — with Summer being a slower part of the year for weddings, venues and vendors most likely will have some great choices for weekend dates! 
  2. Plenty of Picture Time — Summer means the longest days in the year, which means plenty of time for pictures! Soak it up and use it!

Con’s:

  1. It’s Hot In Here… — is it ever not hot in Texas?? Summer is surely warm so when thinking about getting married in this season be sure to consider ways you can keep your guests and yourself cool on the big day.
  2. Too Much Lighting — there is such thing as too much lighting, if you can believe it. During summer days the sun is usually out and brighter than ever. This can make it hard to capture darker images — so if you get married here be ready for bright pictures!

As you can see this is only a handful of things to consider when you are picking a good time to get married during the year.

There are so many things to consider, but hopefully this list will get your brain pumping and excited about what season you want to choose.

If you need help or have any seasonal based questions – let us know! We are both native Texans so we know ALL about the seasons and can help you find a venue who will be the best fit for when you want to get married.

Until then lovebirds, cheers to all four seasons and all the love!

C+K

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