Resources, Wedding Planning, Weddings

April 10, 2025

1. Wedding Planner

  • Why First? If you’re considering hiring a wedding planner, they should be your first vendor. They’ll help guide you through the rest of the process, share insights, and connect you with reliable vendors.
  • Timing: 12-18 months before the wedding (or as soon as you get engaged).
  • Tip: This vendor can help you develop a cohesive vision and navigate logistics.

I highly recommend https://www.cseffortlesselegance.com/ and https://www.designsbyrane.com/

2. Venue

  • Why Second? Your venue choice determines your wedding date and sets the style and atmosphere, so it’s crucial to secure it early.
  • Timing: 12-18 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Booking your venue early gives you flexibility with dates and location options. Venues with high demand can book out over a year in advance!

My favorite venues I’ve worked at so far:

3. Photographer and Videographer

  • Why Third? Photographers and videographers book far in advance, often up to 2 years, especially in popular wedding months. Securing your photographer early ensures you get the style and experience you want.
  • Timing: 10-20 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Look for a Lubbock Wedding Photographer if you’re local, and take time to review portfolios to find someone whose style matches your vision.

4. Caterer and Bar Service

  • Why Fourth? Catering and bar services are major components of your wedding budget, and many venues have preferred caterers or requirements for outside food and drink.
  • Timing: 8-12 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Book early if you’re planning a tasting, and confirm any special dietary needs.

I highly recommend https://www.ptbartending.com/ !!

5. Entertainment: Band/DJ

  • Why Fifth? Music is the heart of your reception, and top DJs and bands tend to book early.
  • Timing: 8-12 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Have a general idea of your preferred genre and vibe for the day.

I highly recommend https://platinumlubbock.com/ !

6. Florist

  • Why Sixth? Florists need time to create and source the blooms that suit your style and colors.
  • Timing: 6-10 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Share your color palette and wedding theme with your florist to ensure cohesive arrangements.

I highly recommend https://www.instagram.com/havilahbyvictoria/, https://tuckerfloral.com/, https://www.allthingsthatbloom.com/

7. Hair and Makeup Artist

  • Why Seventh? A good hair and makeup team is essential for making you and your bridal party feel their best. Book early to secure the best stylists.
  • Timing: 6-8 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Schedule a trial to make sure the stylist aligns with your vision.

I highly recommend https://www.lovestruckartistry.com/ and https://www.makeupbymaddyb.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaAXp3eH7N1eD08G2-_rsPF81PNUbbyTpfMi0GKt8X6lao4-bGA-yXdq2w_aem_UDSpFuCXLOQN6NZKqd_QPA

8. Officiant

  • Why Eighth? This person is essential to the wedding ceremony itself, and finding someone who reflects your beliefs and tone is crucial.
  • Timing: 6-8 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Check with your officiant about any specific requirements for the ceremony.

9. Baker (Cake or Desserts)

  • Why Ninth? While you have more flexibility with bakers, it’s good to book them once you’ve established your style and guest count.
  • Timing: 4-6 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Schedule a tasting and finalize flavors a few months out from the big day.

I highly recommend https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmysweetinsanity.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ6e4VG7i3yrLwPOukf7n3vYPVZinNBhs_tVT8owWvw9lMFSo7rDpILyxg_aem_v35WsvlwSrGXcKOTGwQDJA&e=AT3hjiyaWVoBS5ZBCdiRsRhkOpdmVf3NDaLlUmg7_4geEDAXsuIQi2peLlbqJYD1qJcSOPK3MSyiHoGE_1ETdAciOZQHriCeGKYBtg, https://www.instagram.com/serendipiteacakery2020/, https://www.instagram.com/bakemyday806/ and https://www.instagram.com/cassidyscakefork/

10. Rentals (Tables, Chairs, Décor)

  • Why Tenth? If your venue doesn’t include essential rentals, securing these items early ensures your desired setup.
  • Timing: 3-4 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Coordinate with your wedding planner and florist to ensure a cohesive look.

I highly recommend https://rexspartyrentals.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa2WnLBuvt9BFVudtAOWsP3ttvNlM9PsOPgIwHAaiGrMV9yiLPI6fpDCPk_aem_0k0yPDoyaC74HNIn_QrO1Q

11. Transportation

  • Why Eleventh? Transportation is often overlooked, but it’s vital to have a reliable vendor to get guests, the bridal party, and the couple to and from the venue smoothly.
  • Timing: 3-4 months before the wedding.
  • Tip: Determine your guest count for shuttles and limos early.

12. Stationery (Invitations, Programs, etc.)

  • Why Last? Invitations go out about two months before the wedding, so you have more flexibility.
  • Timing: 4-6 months for design and ordering.
  • Tip: Factor in time for proofing, printing, and mailing.

I highly recommend www.littlewhiteinvite.com

Following this order keeps the major players secured early and helps you stay organized for a smoother wedding planning experience. And remember, for Lubbock weddings, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Kirsten Prater Photography for your photography needs!

If you use any of my recommended vendors, let them know I sent you!

Here’s a guide to booking your wedding vendors in the optimal order!

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