How to Plan a Wedding in Three Months with Sunnyside Farm
Recently engaged and want a spring wedding in the Boise, Idaho area, we got you!
So, you’ve got three months to plan your wedding—cue the dramatic music. While the idea of pulling together the big day in such a short time might feel overwhelming, we’re here to tell you it’s completely doable. At Sunnyside Farm, we’ve got everything you need to make your dream wedding a reality, even on a tight timeline.
Here’s how we can help you plan a stunning, stress-free wedding in just three months.
1. Choose a Venue That Has It All
Sunnyside Farm isn’t just a pretty face (though our rustic barn and enchanted gardens are pretty stunning). We’ve designed our venue to make wedding planning as easy as possible. With our Something Borrowed Room packed full of thousands of décor items, you can skip hours of shopping and still have a beautifully styled event.
From rustic lanterns to elegant table runners, our collection is available to you at no additional cost. It’s like having an entire wedding decor store at your fingertips—only better, because you don’t have to buy a thing.
2. Lock in Your Vendors
Having only three months means making decisions quickly. Thankfully, we’ve worked with some of the best local vendors in the area and can point you in the right direction. Whether it’s catering, photography, or florals, we’ll help you find professionals who can work with your timeline and budget.
P.S. If you’re considering using a friend to take your wedding photos, check out our blog post on why hiring a professional photographer is the way to go. Trust us—this isn’t a decision you want to cut corners on!
3. Skip the Bar Hassle
With Sunnyside Sips, our in-house bar service, you won’t need to stress over alcohol logistics. We’ll handle everything from beer and wine to signature cocktails. You can even customize your drink menu to include your favorites. The best part? We decorate the bar to match your wedding theme, so it’s one less thing to think about.
4. Embrace a DIY (But Not Too DIY) Attitude
As a DIY venue, we give you the freedom to create a day that feels truly yours. Want to set up your own decorations? Go for it. Prefer to have access to the venue the night before for rehearsal and decorating? We’ve got you covered with optional pre-wedding packages.
And don’t worry—our team is always here to help if you need guidance or suggestions along the way.
5. Lean on Our Experience
This isn’t our first rodeo. We’ve been helping couples plan their big day for years, and we know how to make the process smooth and fun. Whether it’s a quick pep talk or advice on the best timeline for your wedding day, we’re here for you.
Your Three-Month Checklist
Here’s a quick rundown of what to tackle in the next 12 weeks:
Book Your Date: Reach out to us ASAP to snag an open date. We still have March and April Saturdays available.
Secure Your Vendors: We can recommend trusted local pros who know how to deliver on a short timeline.
Visit the Something Borrowed Room: Pick out the perfect décor to make your vision come to life.
Plan Your Bar Service: Let Sunnyside Sips handle all your beverage needs.
Finalize the Details: From seating charts to ceremony flow, we’ll help you get organized.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
Best Wedding Send-Off Ideas: Sparklers, Bubbles, and More!
Tips from Sunnyside Farm, a Treasure Valley, Idaho Farm Venue
Most weddings hosted at Sunnyside Farm in Weiser, Idaho do some type of Send-Off for the bride and groom. They have become increasingly popular through the years. The most common Send-Off we see here is the sparkler exit.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of two popular choices—sparklers and bubbles—and explore a few other creative ideas to inspire your perfect exit.
1. Sparklers - A Magical Glow
Nothing says "fairy tale ending" like walking through a sea of glowing sparklers. This classic send-off idea is a favorite for its beauty and drama.
Pros:
Stunning Photos: Sparklers create a magical ambiance and give your photographer opportunities for breathtaking shots.
Simple but Elegant: Sparklers are easy to hand out and require minimal setup.
Evening-Friendly: Perfect for evening weddings, adding a touch of sparkle to the night.
Cons:
Safety Concerns: Sparklers are fire-based, so you’ll need to be cautious, especially around flowing dresses or children.
Permits or Restrictions: Some venues don’t allow sparklers, so always check with your venue first.
Time-Sensitive: Sparklers burn out quickly, so timing is crucial for a successful send-off.
If you decide on a sparkler exit, you’ll want to make sure you have an experienced staff member or coordinator in charge of the execution. There’s quite a lot that goes into wrangling all of your guests into one area, getting the timing just right, and keeping everyone safe.
2. Bubbles - Whimsical and Playful
If sparklers aren’t your thing, bubbles offer a fun and lighthearted alternative. This send-off works for any time of day and is especially great for venues with strict fire rules.
Pros:
Safe for Everyone: Bubbles are harmless, making them ideal for family-friendly weddings.
Cost-Effective: Bubbles are budget-friendly and easy to find.
Works Anytime: Perfect for daytime weddings or indoor venues.
Cons:
Weather Dependent: Wind or rain can make bubbles less effective.
Photo Challenges: Bubbles don’t always show up well in photos, especially in low light.
Potential Slipperiness: If bubbles hit the floor, they can make surfaces slippery—be sure to check for potential hazards.
Other Fun Wedding Send-Off Ideas
If neither sparklers nor bubbles feels like your vibe, consider one of these creative alternatives:
1. Flower Petals
Walk through a shower of soft, colorful petals for a romantic and eco-friendly send-off. Choose flowers that match your wedding theme for an extra cohesive look.
2. Ribbon Wands
Guests can wave ribbon wands in the air, creating a colorful, movement-filled send-off. These are great for venues with strict cleanup policies since they leave no mess.
3. Glow Sticks
Glow sticks are a fun, safe option for evening weddings, offering a vibrant and playful alternative to sparklers.
4. Dried Lavender or Herbs
For a rustic or nature-inspired send-off, provide guests with sachets of dried lavender, herbs, or birdseed to toss as you make your exit.
5. Smoke Bombs
For a dramatic and colorful send-off, consider using smoke bombs. These vibrant puffs of color create a bold, artistic effect in photos and are perfect for couples who want something unique.
Make sure to double check with your venue when choosing a Send-Off idea. Most venues do have restrictions.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
Planning a Perfect Spring Wedding in Idaho: Tips from Sunnyside Farm
March, April and May Weddings in the Boise area
Springtime in Idaho is nothing short of magical, making it one of the most beautiful seasons to say “I do!” At Sunnyside Farm, nestled among the rolling hills and alfalfa fields, spring brings with it blooming flowers, lush greenery, and that perfect mix of warm days and crisp evenings. If you're considering a spring wedding, here are some helpful tips to make the most of this stunning season at our venue—or anywhere in the Gem State.
1. Embrace Idaho’s Natural Beauty
Springtime in Idaho is all about the rebirth of things in the garden. After a long winter, everything starts to come alive. March can still be a little cold and you won’t see much garden color, but April’s warm days really help things along. You will find daffodils, tulips, forsythia, lilacs and several flowering trees. By May, the trees have all leafed out and by the end of the month you will start to see peonies and roses. We love seeing these natural elements from our surrounding landscape incorporated into the couple’s wedding decor. Pastel Tulips and vibrant lilacs not only look stunning, but smell amazing.
2. Prepare for Idaho’s Unpredictable Weather
Spring is a beautiful time in Idaho, but the weather can get crazy. We highly recommend choosing a venue with an indoor facility. We’ve seen some couples chance it and hope to rent a tent if the forecast is looking rainy or windy, but they can be hard to come by when everyone else in the valley is doing the same. We have a large 40x90 barn that works perfectly if the weather doesn’t cooperate. And if the day turns out to be lovely, the perfect set up is ceremony in our lovely garden space and then move to the barn for the reception.
3. Add a Personal Touch with our In-House Decor in Spring Themes and Colors
A spring wedding in Idaho wouldn’t be complete without some personalized touches, and our “Something Borrowed Room” is packed with thousands of décor items at no extra charge! You can create a one-of-a-kind wedding that reflects your style without breaking the bank. From rustic lanterns to elegant table settings, we’ve got everything you need to bring your spring wedding vision to life. We also have an assortment of pastel runners and napkins.
4. Go with Seasonal with Food and Drink
Think of all the things coming to life in the garden in the spring and incorporate those into your seasonal menu. Peas, new potatoes, asparagus, strawberries, etc. Use edible flowers and fruit for garnishes. Imagine sipping on a refreshing strawberry cocktail or a light rosé while soaking in the springtime atmosphere with your loved ones.
5. Better Rates for Spring Dates
Most venues will offer an off-season discounted rate for March weddings and possibly April weddings as well. At Sunnyside Farm we offer March weddings at a $1000s off the normal rate. If you book a weekday, you will pay even less.
We’d love to help you bring your spring wedding dreams to life. Whether you’re looking for that perfect outdoor ceremony spot or a rustic barn reception, Sunnyside Farm has it all. We still have some March and April dates available. Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning the wedding of your dreams!
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
5 Regrets brides have on their wedding day… {continued}
#5 Having an Open Bar at your Wedding
Here’s the last post of “5 common regrets brides have on their wedding day”. Number 5 on the list - Having an Open Bar at your Wedding.
Your wedding days will be one of the most magical days of your life. From the venue, to the gathering of friends and family, to the dinner and drinks. Having an open bar may seem like the best way to go but there are some things to consider. Now keep in mind, this is a very regional idea. There are some areas of the United States (and world) where an open bar is pretty much the only option. Your guests might revolt if you go another direction lol! But here in Idaho, where our venue, Sunnyside Farm & Events is located, it is very common to have a cash bar or combination (open to a certain dollar amount and then cash bar).
We love the idea of a combination bar and there are a few different ways you can do it. Some couples will opt for an open beer and wine bar and then have cocktails available for purchase by the guests. Some couples will decide on a certain dollar amount and have an open bar until the tab reaches that amount and then it becomes a cash bar. We’ve also seen couples give each guest one or two tokens for free drinks and then after that it is a cash bar. This helps keep costs down but still allows your guests to have a few drinks on the couple and then they can pay for anything beyond what is offered.
If you are still set on an open bar, here are some things to think about:
1. It can be very expensive.
While the idea of unlimited drinks sounds fun and exciting, you’d be surprised how fast that tab can add up. We see it time and time again, when the bar is open, people will keep ordering and be very wasteful. When we clean off tables at the end of the night it’s pretty shocking how many full beverages we throw away.
2. The Party Can Get Out Of Control
While an open bar can certainly liven up the reception, it can also lead to some less-than-ideal situations. When alcohol flows freely, it’s easy for some guests to go overboard. You may end up with people behaving in ways you didn’t anticipate — from awkward to downright embarrassing. Trust me when I say, this is pretty common.
3. Your Paying for Unused Alcohol
At the end of the night, you might find that a lot of alcohol you paid for goes untouched. Weddings are big social gatherings, and not every guest will drink as much as you anticipate. Offering an open bar means that you’ve paid for more than some guests will even want, and that’s money you could’ve put toward other things, like your honeymoon or an upgraded photographer.
With a cash bar or a set number of drinks per guest, you only pay for what’s actually consumed, ensuring you don’t waste your budget.
4. The Hangover Factor
Depending on what you have planned for the following day with friends and family who are visiting from out of town, you definitely don’t want to be feeling miserable from overindulgence. An open bar will most likely encourage drinking too much and leaving everyone unable to function well the next day. You can refer back to Part 1 of this series to see all the ways drinking too much can affect your wedding day and the day after.
Instead of an all-out open bar, consider offering a more thoughtful approach with a limited selection of drinks that reflects your taste. Starting next year at Sunnyside Farm, our Sunnyside Sips bar service gives you the option to customize your drink offerings. Choose a few signature drinks, a selection of beers and wines, or offer a combination hosted/cash bar. We also take care of all the details — from garnishes to mixers — so you can rest easy knowing your guests will be taken care of, and the party won’t get out of hand.
An open bar might seem like a crowd-pleaser, but in the end, it can add unnecessary stress and cost to your day. Choosing a more curated bar option can help you keep the day about what matters most while still offering your guests a great experience.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
5 Regrets brides have on their wedding day… {continued}
#4 Hiring a Friend to Photograph Your Wedding
Here’s Part 4 of “5 common regrets brides have on their wedding day”. Number 4 on the list - Hiring a Friend to Photograph Your Wedding.
Weddings are magical days filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. From the first look to the last dance, each moment is precious, and capturing it all through photography is one of the most important investments a couple can make. While it may be tempting to ask a friend with a decent camera to capture your big day, there are several reasons why this might not be the best idea. In this blog post, we'll dive into the pitfalls of having a friend photograph your wedding, and why hiring a professional is worth every penny. Now, let me say that if you have a friend who has a successful photography business, who has photographed wedding before, this may not apply to you. :)
1. Professional vs. Amateur
One of the most compelling reasons not to hire a friend will be their lack of experience. Wedding photographers have expertise in the flow of the day, varying lighting situations and how to handle a multitude of scenarios that can present themselves. Your friend may have a decent camera, but without this in-depth knowledge and skill set, it can be a recipe for disaster. Some venues will have full sun ceremony spaces, or darkly lit indoor spaces. Having a camera with advanced settings, knowing how to use them, and having the correct lens will be essential in capturing beautiful portraits.
Wedding professionals know how to work under pressure, capture flattering angles and move large groups of family members around quickly and efficiently. This takes a lot of experience to become proficient and doesn’t happen overnight.
Fun Fact: We hired a pretty high end photographer for our wedding waaaaay back in 1990. He came and took our portraits and ceremony pics but had to leave and sent his assistant to capture the reception. You can clearly tell who took which images. My mom is still mad about it. lol!
2. Emotional Pressure on Friend
While your friend may offer to take your wedding photos, it does put a lot of pressure on them and eliminates them from participating in your big day as a guest and enjoying themselves. But the big issue can be if the images don’t turn out as you expected or if key moments are missed. This can put a strain on the friendship. You don’t want your wedding day memories to become a point of contention between you and someone you care about. By hiring a professional, your friend will be able to enjoy your wedding day without the added pressure.
3. Limited Experience with Wedding Photography
Let’s say you have a friend who is an amazing landscape/nature photographer or who does the most beautiful newborn portraits. Wedding photography is a whole different ball game. You have to be on your toes and ready to capture posed, candid, and event photography. It’s a long day, carrying heavy equipment and many times you end up managing the timeline as well. You want to make sure you hire someone with ample experience in all of th above so your wedding day runs as smoothly as possible.
4. Lack of Equipment and Backup Plans
I actually used to be a wedding photographer from 2008 - 2022. It was a lot of fun but it was really expensive, as I had to own two of everything. Two high end, expensive cameras, two flashes, multiple lenses and memory cards. Your friend most likely owns one decent camera, but what happens if it malfunctions and there is no back up camera. Or if during your reception in a darkly lit barn, their flash goes out. These are all things to consider, especially when it’s wedding photos that can’t be retaken.
5. Editing and Post Processing Expertise
Taking the photos is only half the battle, there’s an enormous amount of work that goes into editing. A seasoned photographer had it down to a science and will spend hours color correcting, retouching and delivering perfect photos in the highest resolution. They will know how to enhance lighting, remove distractions and ensure you and your partner look your best. An amateur may deliver over or under exposed images or poorly cropped images, leaving you disappointed. Hiring a professional who has up to date editing programs with an advanced skill set using them will provide you with unforgettable photos.
6. The Importance of Consistency
I always recommend asking to see a photographer’s entire gallery of a few different weddings. It’s honestly pretty easy to get a few good posed images, but what about walking down the aisle, candid moments with your guests, the dreaded family photos (lol!) or the dance party? Those can all be extremely challenging to capture effectively. Hiring a photographer who consistently delivers entire galleries with top notch photos is a slam dunk.
7. Capturing Special Moments You Didn’t Even Know Were Happening
One of the greatest skills of a professional wedding photographer is capturing those little behind the scenes moments you weren’t even aware of. Everyone will know to capture the vows, kiss, first dance etc. But what amount that little moment between and your dad before he walks you down the isle, the close up of the tear rolling down mom’s cheek while dancing with her son, the flower girl twirling around in her cute dress before walking down the isle, etc. Most photographers have captured enough events that they know to be on the lookout for these special moments.
While it may seem like a good idea to have a friend photograph your wedding, the potential downsides far outweigh the short-term savings. From a lack of professional expertise and equipment to the emotional pressure it places on your friend, the risks are too high. Your wedding photos are an investment in your memories, and it’s worth hiring a professional to ensure that those memories are captured beautifully and preserved for a lifetime.
So, do your future self a favor—hire a professional photographer, and let your friend be a part of the celebration instead of behind the camera. You’ll thank yourself when you look back at those stunning photos years from now!
Next up … No. 5 - Having an Open Bar
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
5 Regrets brides have on their wedding day… {continued}
#3 Not Hiring a Videographer
Here’s Part 3 of “5 common regrets brides have on their wedding day”. Number 3 on the list - Not Hiring a Videographer
Your wedding day is one of the most important and cherished moments in your life. You’ve spent months (or maybe even years!) planning every detail—choosing the perfect venue, designing the decor, picking out the ideal dress, and curating a guest list of the people you love most. It’s a whirlwind of emotions and experiences that you’ll want to relive for years to come.
While photography is often top of mind when it comes to documenting your wedding, there’s another key piece of the puzzle: videography. Photos are wonderful at capturing still moments, but nothing brings the atmosphere, energy, and emotions of your wedding day back to life quite like a video. In this post, we’ll explore the many reasons why hiring a videographer for your wedding is one of the best decisions you can make.
1. Relive the Day in Full Motion and Sound
Your wedding day will go by faster than you expect. Between the excitement, the nervous anticipation, and the constant flow of events, it’s easy to miss out on small moments. Hiring a videographer ensures that you don’t just capture the highlights but the entire essence of the day—complete with movement and sound.
Imagine being able to watch your first look over and over again, hearing your partner’s voice tremble as they read their vows, or watching the hilarious and heartfelt speeches from your loved ones. A wedding video allows you to revisit these moments, hear the laughter, see the joy in your guests' faces, and even catch details you might have missed.
2. Capture Emotions and Atmosphere
Photos are great for freezing specific moments, but they can’t capture the way emotions build over time. Videography does this in a way that is unmatched. From the nervous smiles before walking down the aisle to the tears during the ceremony, and the laughter on the dance floor, a wedding video captures the feel of the day.
A videographer has the skill to tell your wedding story with emotional depth, weaving together the special moments in a way that creates a narrative. This storytelling ability gives you something that feels truly personal and unique to your relationship and wedding.
3. Immortalize Your Vows and Speeches
One of the most memorable parts of your wedding day will be the words that are spoken—your vows, the speeches from family and friends, and maybe even the toasts during the reception. These moments are deeply personal and heartfelt, and while photos can capture reactions, they can’t preserve the words themselves.
A videographer can record your vows in full, allowing you to revisit those meaningful promises year after year. Imagine sitting down on your anniversary and rewatching the exact moment you said "I do" and hearing the joy in your voice. Speeches, too, are often filled with anecdotes and wisdom from the people who know you best. Preserving these in video form ensures that these moments aren’t just remembered but experienced again.
4. Capture the Unexpected Moments
Weddings are filled with candid, unscripted moments that are often the most treasured memories. Maybe it's the flower girl doing an impromptu dance during the ceremony, or a funny moment during the reception that no one could have planned. While photographers are great at capturing some of these, videographers can document them in real-time, adding an extra layer of richness to your wedding memories.
A good videographer will anticipate these moments and be ready to film them, so nothing slips through the cracks. Years from now, when you’re watching your wedding video, it’s often these unexpected, spontaneous moments that will bring the biggest smile to your face.
5. Share the Day with Those Who Couldn’t Be There
Unfortunately, not everyone you care about may be able to attend your wedding. Whether due to health, travel constraints, or other circumstances, some guests may have to miss out. Having a professional wedding video allows you to share the magic of the day with them in a way that photos just can’t replicate.
Many videographers can provide edited highlight reels or full-length videos that can be easily shared with family and friends. This means that even those who couldn’t attend will still get to experience the joy, emotions, and love from your wedding day as if they were right there with you.
If hiring a professional videographer is just not in the budget, at the very least, have your phone on a tripod so someone can hit that record button and capture your ceremony. You could also ask a friend to capture some candid content throughout the day so you can preserve some special memories on video.
Next up … No. 4 - Having a friend (non-professional photographer) take your photos.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues for more wedding inspo.
5 Regrets brides have on their wedding day… {continued}
#2 Drinking Too Much Alcohol
Here’s Part 2 of “5 common regrets brides have on their wedding day”. Number 2 on the list - Drinking Too Much Alcohol
Let's face it, you’ve been stressing, planning and anticipating this day for a long time. It’s only natural that you would want to have a few drinks to celebrate that your wedding day has finally arrived. This will be one of the most important days in you and your spouse’s life together. A day filled with joy, love and celebration with friends and family. However, it’s a long day and if you aren’t deliberate in moderating your alcohol intake, things can escalate quickly into being an unforgettable day for the wrong reasons. Here’s some reasons to keep drinking to a minimum:
You want to remember every moment.
There will be so many memorable moments on your wedding day and you will want to remember all the details of every one; getting ready with your friends and family, the ceremony, vows, first dance, cake cutting and toasts. Alcohol can affect memory and the last thing you want is to have hazy recollections of the day. You will want to be completely present in each and every moment and detail.
Avoid unwanted embarrassment.
Weddings are often recorded by professional videographers and guests with smartphones. Too much alcohol can lead to behavior you might regret later. We’ve seen a few times where over-drinking has lead to awkward moments, for example, slurred speeches, stumbling on the dance floor or not cooperating during photos.
The risk of an emotional rollercoaster.
Weddings are an emotional day all on their own, and alcohol can amplify feelings. Too much alcohol can lead to crying, being overly sentimental or even irritability. Small disagreements or stressful situations (like weather or logistical hiccups) can seem much worse if you’ve been drinking. By limiting your alcohol intake you can keep your emotions in check.
Ensuring smooth logistics.
Weddings involve tight schedules and coordination with vendors. Alcohol can slow down your response times and lead to misunderstandings or forgotten tasks. Your ability to manage the flow of the day is crucial. Vendors will check in with you throughout the day and evening so clear decision making abilities is key.
You don’t want to get sick.
Drinking too much can upset your stomach, headaches, vomiting, and overall discomfort. Do we need to say more? :)
Keeping your guests comfortable.
Guests look to the bride and groom to set the tone for the evening. Overindulging in alcohol can create an atmosphere that encourages others to drink too much as well. Weddings are also usually attended by children and older family members who may not appreciate excessive drinking.
Safety first.
Drinking too much can lead to accidents, injury or risky behavior. Excessive alcohol consumption increases the chance of someone getting hurt. Don’t forget to plan ahead for transportation for your guests, such as shuttle services, so that all guests get home safely.
A better morning after.
Weddings usually have activities the following day, including brunches, farewells with friends and family and potentially an early morning flight for your honeymoon. Brutal hangovers are never fun, but especially miserable if you have plans the following day.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO AVOID DRINKING TOO MUCH ON YOUR WEDDING DAY:
Try setting a personal drink limit, like one drink per hour or only doing mimosas and the champagne toast.
Designate someone you trust to help pace your drinks, like a maid of honor, best man, or even the bartender.
Stay hydrated throughout the day, and eat regularly to keep your energy and mood stable.
Alternate alcoholic drinks with water, and make sure to eat throughout the day, not just during the reception.
Suggest waiting until after the reception to relax with a drink in private as a couple, away from the crowd.
Keep the next day in mind. Drinking in moderation means you’ll feel good and enjoy the first day of married life instead of spending it nursing a headache.
Offer plenty of non-alcoholic drink options and consider having fun mocktails available so guests feel included without feeling pressured to drink alcohol.
Focus on making genuine connections with guests and taking in the experience fully, rather than relying on alcohol to enhance the celebration.
It’s perfectly fine to enjoy a few drinks on your wedding day, but moderation is the key to ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Next up … No. 3 Not having a videographer.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues is more wedding inspo.
5 Regrets brides have on their wedding day…
#1 Wearing an Uncomfortable Dress or Shoes
I’m doing a five part series on common regrets brides have on their wedding day. Number 1 on the list - choosing a dress or shoes that aren’t comfortable.
Planning your wedding outfit is one of the most exciting parts of your big day, but it’s essential to prioritize comfort along with style. Here are some tips to help you choose a wedding dress and shoes that will keep you comfortable throughout the day:
Choosing a Comfortable Wedding Dress
Know Your Venue:
Consider the setting of your wedding. For a summer wedding at venues like Sunnyside Farm, a lighter, breathable fabric might be ideal, especially during warmer months. If you are opting for a spring, fall or winter wedding make sure you have a stylish wrap to wear when it gets chilly.
Consider Your Movement:
Your dress should allow you to move easily, whether you’re walking down the aisle, dancing, or sitting. Make sure to practice these things when dress shopping to see how the dress responds.
Prioritize Breathable Fabrics:
Fabrics like silk, chiffon, or tulle are not only beautiful but also breathable and lightweight, which can help you stay comfortable.
Think About Length and Weight:
If your dress is too long or heavy, it can become a burden. Consider a hem that allows you to walk without tripping or a dress with less volume for easier movement. There’s nothing worse than tugging at your dress or lifting your hem all night so you don’t step on it.
Don’t Forget About Support:
Ensure your dress provides the right support, especially in the bodice. A well-fitted dress with built-in support can save you from discomfort throughout the day.
Consider a Change of Dress:
If you love the idea of a more glamorous gown for the ceremony but want to dance the night away without restrictions, consider changing into a lighter, simpler dress for the reception.
Choosing Comfortable Wedding Shoes
Break Them In:
Whatever shoes you choose, make sure to break them in before the big day. Wear them around the house to soften the material and ensure they don’t cause blisters.
Think About Heel Height:
Consider your comfort level with heels. If you’re not used to wearing high heels, wedding day might not be the best time to start. Low heels, wedges, or even elegant flats can be stylish and comfortable options.
Consider the Terrain:
If your wedding is outdoors at a venue like Sunnyside Farm, you might want to choose shoes that are stable on grass and gravel. Wedges or block heels provide more stability compared to stilettos.
Cushioning is Key:
Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the sole. You can also add gel inserts for extra comfort. This may make you feel like an old person lol! But trust me, you won’t regret it. :)
Bring a Backup Pair:
Have a second pair of more comfortable shoes, like flats or sandals, to change into during the reception.
Match Your Shoes to Your Dress Length:
Ensure that your shoes complement the length of your dress. If you plan on switching to flats later, make sure your dress won’t drag on the ground when you change shoes.
Kendall opted for the ultimate comfortable shoe, choosing white crocs :)
Remember, you’ll be wearing your wedding dress and shoes for many hours, so comfort should be a top priority. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy your day to the fullest without any discomfort holding you back!
Next up (will be posted next week) … No. 2 Drinking too much on your wedding day.
Sunnyside Farm is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Visit these great venues is more wedding inspo.