Choosing a wedding date is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the planning process. The date sets the tone for your wedding and impacts everything from your venue choice to guest availability. For Oregon couples, choosing the right wedding date involves considering weather, venue availability, and personal significance.
Consider the Season Oregon is known for its stunning natural landscapes, but the weather can be unpredictable. Summer and early fall are the most popular times to get married in Oregon because of the pleasant weather and abundance of outdoor venues. However, these months can also be the most expensive and competitive for booking venues. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider a winter or early spring wedding. The cooler months offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and venues often offer off-season discounts. Venue Availability Once you have an idea of when you’d like to get married, check with your desired venue to see if they’re available. Popular Portland wedding venues can book up more than a year in advance, especially for prime dates like holiday weekends or peak wedding season. It’s a good idea to have a few date options in mind when you start touring venues to ensure you find a date that works for both you and the venue. Personal Dates of Significance For some couples, selecting a wedding date is about more than just availability—it’s about finding a date with personal significance. Perhaps you want to get married on the anniversary of your first date, or maybe you’d like to honor a family tradition by choosing the same month your parents were married. Keep in mind that choosing a special date may limit your venue options, so it’s important to balance personal preferences with logistical considerations. Guests and Travel If you’re planning a large wedding or inviting out-of-town guests, it’s important to think about their availability and travel needs when choosing a date. Holiday weekends can be convenient for guests with extra time off, but they also tend to be more expensive for travel and accommodations. Additionally, make sure to consider local events that might impact your wedding weekend—particularly in Portland, where major festivals or conventions can affect hotel availability and traffic. Budget Considerations Your wedding date can also impact your overall budget. Popular dates, like summer Saturdays, tend to come with a higher price tag for both venues and vendors. If you’re looking to save money, consider getting married on a Friday or Sunday, or choosing a less popular month. This can help stretch your budget without sacrificing your dream wedding. Choosing the right wedding date requires careful consideration, but by weighing these factors, you’ll find the perfect day to say “I do.” For couples looking to meet vendors and get more advice on planning their wedding, be sure to attend the Willamette Wedding Show.
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Planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job. Between picking the venue, coordinating vendors, and managing guest lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The key to stress-free wedding planning is breaking it down into manageable steps, and this checklist will help Oregon couples navigate the process from start to finish.
12+ Months Before the Wedding At least a year before the big day, you should secure the most important elements of your wedding. This includes booking your venue, photographer, caterer, and entertainment. Oregon offers a wide range of wedding venues, from scenic vineyards to urban event spaces, so securing your favorite venue early is crucial. Start looking into caterers and photographers at the same time—these vendors can also get booked out well in advance. 9-12 Months Before the Wedding After securing your major vendors, it’s time to think about the finer details. Start looking for your wedding dress and bridesmaids' dresses at least 9-12 months before the wedding. You’ll also want to hire a florist, and decide on any décor elements, including lighting, rentals, and signage. If you’re thinking about hiring a wedding planner, now is the time to do it. 6-9 Months Before the Wedding At this point, you’ll need to finalize your guest list and send out save-the-dates. Start creating a day-of timeline with your planner or coordinator and make sure you’ve secured any rentals you’ll need (chairs, tents, etc.). Around this time, you should also book your hair and makeup artists, bartending services, and wedding transportation. 3-6 Months Before the Wedding Now it’s time to finalize your ceremony and reception details. Confirm your floral design, seating arrangements, and music selections. Work closely with your caterer on the menu and have a cake tasting if you haven’t done so already. Make sure you’ve sent out your invitations, and start thinking about any personal touches you want to incorporate into your big day. 1-3 Months Before the Wedding Finalize your vendor contracts and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Plan for any last-minute décor or signage needs, and create a list of must-have photos with your photographer. This is also the time to break in your wedding shoes, finalize your vows, and enjoy any pre-wedding events, like your bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette party. Last-Minute Details In the final weeks leading up to your wedding, make sure to confirm all details with your vendors. Have a final meeting with your wedding planner or coordinator to go over the day-of schedule. And most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy this exciting time! By staying organized and using this checklist, your Oregon wedding will be an unforgettable day. To meet all the vendors you need in one place, be sure to attend the Willamette Wedding Show, where you’ll have access to a curated selection of local wedding experts ready to help make your vision a reality. This is one of the highest searched terms by local wedding planning couples. As soon as one of you says "yes!" the wedding planning begins... but where do you start?! A few things need to happen all at the same time and the answers will effect how much your wedding will cost. The first items to determine are: 1) Guest list- make a list of all the people you would like to invite. You can get details later but you need to know approximately how many guests you are having so that you can find a venue that can accommodate that number. Some things to ask yourselves are: Are we inviting children? Are we inviting co-workers? Which friends and family members are important to your parents and should get an invite? These will significantly effect your planning and your budget so its important to get this figured out early. 2) Type of wedding- Location, location, location! What type of wedding you have will effect the cost of your wedding venue. Are you having a church ceremony and then a reception at a different location? Do you want the ceremony and reception in the same place? Do you want an indoor wedding? Outdoor wedding? Rustic wedding? Ballroom wedding? You will want to start looking for venues that fit the type of wedding you want and that will effect your budget. 3) Approximate date- What time of year do you want to get married? April to October is peak wedding season here in Oregon and can effect the cost of your wedding. I say "approximate date" because your dream venue may not be available on the exact date you want. Couples are taking longer on average to plan their weddings (sometimes up to 2 years) so venues book pretty quickly. 4) Wedding planner- do you want to hire a wedding planner? Full service wedding planners help you from "yes!" to "I do" to "bon voyage (leaving for your honeymoon)." There is a cost associated with them but they can help you reduce costs as well as reduce stress. If you decide you want to plan your wedding yourself (totally doable... especially at a wedding show!) you will definitely want to consider a day of coordinator. They help with all the to dos of the wedding day so you can relax and enjoy the day. Plan it and hand it off. I am not a wedding planner but I highly recommend hiring a day of coordinator if you forgo the full service planning. The number one regret recently married couples have is not hiring a day of coordinator. The other items will come later but at the beginning of wedding planning these are the three things you should focus on. Now that you have those out of the way... what will this all cost you? $31,967 is the average cost of a wedding in Oregon for a single location (ceremony and reception in the same location), with 125 guests in the spring. This is not based on a national survey. This is based on almost 10 years wedding industry experience here in Portland and the Willamette Valley. We know literally hundreds of wedding vendors across all vendor categories and did the research to find the average numbers. Here is how it breaks down: Now that you have all this information you are ready to get started on your wedding budget. Register your wedding to get a copy of our FREE wedding planning checklist.
The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Wedding at the Willamette Wedding Show
Are you in the midst of planning your dream wedding? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we will take you through every step of the process to help you plan the perfect wedding at the Willamette Wedding Show. From finding inspiration for your theme to booking vendors and finalizing details, this comprehensive post has got you covered. We'll provide tips on navigating the event, showcasing the incredible range of vendors and exhibitors you can expect to find. We'll also share insider secrets to securing the best deals and discounts, ensuring that your wedding remains within budget. Whether you're a local bride or planning a destination wedding, this guide will help you make the most of your experience at the Willamette Wedding Show and create memories that will last a lifetime. Why attend the Willamette Wedding Show Attending the Willamette Wedding Show is a must for any bride-to-be. Not only does it provide a one-stop-shop for all your wedding planning needs, but it also offers a unique opportunity to connect with local vendors and experts in the industry. The show brings together a diverse range of professionals, from photographers to caterers, allowing you to explore different options and make informed decisions for your special day. With its extensive lineup of exhibits, fashion shows, and workshops, the Willamette Wedding Show is an invaluable resource for anyone embarking on the journey of planning their dream wedding. Key benefits of planning your dream wedding at the show Planning your dream wedding at the Willamette Wedding Show comes with a multitude of benefits. Firstly, the show offers a curated selection of vendors and exhibitors, saving you time and effort in searching for the perfect match. This means you can meet and interact with different professionals all under one roof, making it easier to compare services, prices, and styles. Additionally, many vendors offer exclusive deals and discounts for show attendees, helping you stretch your budget further without compromising on quality. Lastly, the show provides ample opportunities for inspiration and creativity, allowing you to see the latest trends and gather ideas to personalize your wedding and make it truly unique. Choosing the perfect venue One of the first and most crucial decisions you'll make when planning your wedding is selecting the perfect venue. The Willamette Wedding Show showcases a variety of venues, ranging from luxurious hotels to rustic barns and picturesque outdoor spaces. When considering a venue, it's important to take into account your desired theme, guest capacity, and budget. Whether you envision a romantic garden wedding or a grand ballroom affair, the show offers a diverse range of options to suit every couple's preferences and style. Selecting the best vendors Choosing the right vendors is essential to bringing your wedding vision to life. The Willamette Wedding Show gives you access to an extensive network of talented professionals, making the selection process much easier. Here are some key vendors you'll need for your big day: Photographer- Your wedding photos will be cherished for a lifetime, so it's crucial to find a photographer whose style and approach align with your vision. The show features a wide array of photographers, each with their own unique style, so you can find the perfect match to capture your special moments. Florist- Flowers are an integral part of any wedding, adding beauty and elegance to the overall ambiance. At the Willamette Wedding Show, you'll find talented florists who can create stunning arrangements that align with your chosen theme and color palette. Caterer- Good food is essential to any wedding celebration. With a variety of caterers at the show, you can sample different menus and find the perfect fit for your taste and budget. From gourmet plated dinners to casual buffet-style options, the choices are endless. Wedding planner- If you're feeling overwhelmed with the planning process, hiring a wedding planner can alleviate stress and ensure a smooth and seamless event. The show features experienced wedding planners who can assist you in every aspect of your wedding, from logistics to design, ensuring that everything runs smoothly on your big day. Designing your dream wedding- Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique style and personality. The Willamette Wedding Show offers a plethora of inspiration and resources to help you design your dream wedding. Theme and color palette- Selecting a theme and color palette sets the tone for your wedding. Whether you're drawn to a bohemian vibe or a classic black and white affair, the show's exhibits and displays will help you visualize your chosen theme and guide you in finding the perfect decor and details. Wedding invitations and stationery- Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse guests will have of your special day. At the show, you'll find a variety of stationery vendors who can create custom-designed invitations that reflect your theme and personal style, ensuring a memorable first impression. Decorations- The right decorations can transform any venue into a magical space. From stunning backdrops to elegant table settings, the Willamette Wedding Show showcases a range of decor options to suit every taste. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a lavish display, you'll find plenty of inspiration to create a beautiful and cohesive atmosphere. Centerpieces- Centerpieces are a focal point of any wedding reception. At the show, you'll find talented designers who can create unique and eye-catching centerpieces that align with your theme and elevate your tablescape. From floral arrangements to candlelit displays, the possibilities are endless. Choosing your wedding attire- Every bride dreams of finding the perfect wedding dress, and the Willamette Wedding Show is the ideal place to make that dream a reality. With a wide selection of bridal boutiques and designers, you'll have the opportunity to try on different styles and find the dress that makes you feel like a princess. The show also features a range of options for bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party, ensuring that everyone looks their best on your special day. Planning the perfect menu- Food is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any wedding celebration. At the Willamette Wedding Show, you'll have the opportunity to sample a variety of menu options from different caterers, helping you choose the perfect dishes to delight your guests. From decadent appetizers to delectable desserts, the show's vendors offer a wide range of culinary delights to suit every palate. Entertainment and music- A great wedding is incomplete without entertainment and music to keep the celebration going. The Willamette Wedding Show features talented DJs, bands, and musicians who specialize in creating the perfect ambiance for your special day. Whether you prefer live music or a DJ spinning your favorite tunes, you'll find the right entertainment options to ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests. Capturing the memories: Photography and videography Your wedding day will be filled with countless precious moments, and having them captured in high-quality photos and videos is essential. The show showcases a variety of photographers and videographers, each with their own unique style and approach. Take the time to meet with different professionals, view their portfolios, and discuss your vision to ensure that you find the perfect match to document your special day. Wedding ceremony and reception timeline- Creating a well-structured timeline for your wedding ceremony and reception is crucial to ensure that everything runs smoothly. The Willamette Wedding Show offers helpful resources and workshops to guide you in planning the perfect timeline for your big day. Creating a schedule- A detailed schedule will help you keep track of all the important events and ensure that everything happens at the right time. The show's workshops will provide you with tips and templates to create a comprehensive schedule that includes the ceremony, reception, speeches, dances, and other key moments. Order of events- Understanding the typical order of events at a wedding can help you plan the flow of your day. The show's experts will walk you through the traditional sequence of events, allowing you to customize it to fit your preferences and make your wedding unique. Wedding rehearsal- A rehearsal is essential to ensure that everyone involved in your wedding ceremony knows their role and feels comfortable. The show offers guidance on how to conduct a successful rehearsal, including tips for organizing and communicating with your wedding party and officiant. Managing the budget- Weddings can be expensive, but with proper planning and budgeting, you can ensure that your dream wedding remains within reach. The Willamette Wedding Show provides valuable insights and tips on managing your budget effectively. Dealing with wedding stress- Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. The show offers resources and workshops on how to manage wedding-related stress and stay calm throughout the planning process. From relaxation techniques to delegating tasks, you'll find strategies to help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of wedding planning. Experience the Magic of the Willamette Valley: A Perfect Destination for Your Oregon Wedding7/3/2023 In this blog post, we explore the enchanting Willamette Valley in Oregon as a perfect destination for an unforgettable wedding experience. Filled with picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and charming small towns, the Willamette Valley offers a magical backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot in a romantic and unique setting. From wine tasting experiences and farm-to-table cuisine to breathtaking outdoor venues and luxurious accommodations, we delve into all the reasons why the Willamette Valley is an ideal choice for couples seeking a truly memorable wedding celebration. Whether you're dreaming of an intimate vineyard ceremony or a grand outdoor affair, this post will provide inspiration and practical tips to help you plan your perfect Oregon wedding in the enchanting Willamette Valley. Welcome to the enchanting world of the Willamette Valley, the perfect destination for your Oregon wedding. Nestled in the heart of Oregon, this breathtaking region is known for its picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, the Willamette Valley offers a magical backdrop for your special day.
As you embark on your wedding planning journey, allow us to guide you through all the reasons why the Willamette Valley is an ideal choice for couples seeking a truly memorable wedding celebration. From world-class wine tasting experiences and farm-to-table cuisine to stunning outdoor venues and luxurious accommodations, this region has it all. Join us as we explore the magic of the Willamette Valley and unlock the secrets to planning your perfect Oregon wedding. Overview of the Willamette ValleyThe Willamette Valley, located in northwest Oregon, stretches from Portland to Eugene. This scenic region is renowned for its fertile soil, making it a prime location for vineyards and wineries. Boasting over 500 wineries, the Willamette Valley is recognized as one of the premier wine-growing regions in the world. In addition to its vineyards, the valley is dotted with charming small towns, each offering its own unique charm and character. With its mild climate, the Willamette Valley experiences warm summers and cool, wet winters, creating the perfect conditions for growing grapes. This unique combination of climate and soil produces exceptional wines, particularly Pinot Noir, which the region is famous for. Beyond its wine offerings, the valley is also blessed with picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, lush farmlands, and meandering rivers. Why Choose the Willamette Valley for Your Wedding?Choosing the Willamette Valley for your wedding is a decision that guarantees an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. The region's natural beauty and romantic ambiance create an idyllic setting that will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Here are a few reasons why the Willamette Valley is the perfect destination for your Oregon wedding:
Outdoor VenuesOutdoor venues in the Willamette Valley capitalize on the region's natural beauty, allowing you to exchange vows in a picturesque setting. From vineyard estates and garden venues to riverside parks and mountain resorts, the options are endless. Imagine walking down the aisle under a canopy of ancient oak trees or celebrating your first dance on a terrace overlooking rolling vineyards. Indoor VenuesIf you prefer an indoor setting, the Willamette Valley has an array of charming and elegant options. Historic barns, renovated warehouses, and grand ballrooms provide the perfect backdrop for an intimate and romantic celebration. These venues often feature unique architectural details, such as exposed beams or floor-to-ceiling windows, adding a touch of charm to your wedding day. Vineyard VenuesFor wine lovers, vineyard venues in the Willamette Valley are a match made in heaven. Imagine exchanging vows amidst rows of grapevines, with the scent of blooming flowers and the gentle breeze as your witnesses. Vineyard venues often offer stunning views, elegant reception spaces, and the opportunity for wine tastings, making them a popular choice for couples seeking a truly unique and memorable wedding experience. Accommodations for GuestsEnsuring your guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay is an essential part of planning your wedding. The Willamette Valley offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, ensuring that your loved ones feel right at home. From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals, the options are plentiful. Many accommodations in the valley are located in close proximity to wedding venues, making it convenient for your guests to travel to and from the celebration. Additionally, some venues offer on-site accommodations, allowing you and your guests to enjoy a seamless and stress-free wedding experience. Activities and AttractionsWhile your wedding will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip to the Willamette Valley, there are plenty of activities and attractions for you and your guests to enjoy during your stay. Wine tasting is a must-do activity in the Willamette Valley. Explore the region's renowned wineries and vineyards, and treat your taste buds to award-winning Pinot Noir and other varietals. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings, providing you with a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. If you and your guests are nature enthusiasts, take advantage of the valley's beautiful landscapes by going hiking, cycling, or even hot air ballooning. The region is home to several stunning parks and trails, offering incredible views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. For those seeking a cultural experience, the Willamette Valley is dotted with art galleries, museums, and performing arts centers. Explore local artists' work, attend a theater performance, or visit a museum to learn more about the region's history and culture. There are so many options for getting married in the Willamette Valley. The beauty of nature in the Willamette Valley is breathtaking. There are a short list of beautiful destinations in the United States and the WIllamette Valley is definitely on that list. In this Vendor Spotlight we get to learn more about Deepwood Museum & Gardens. Elizabeth Basalto is the wedding coordinator at the Deepwood Museum & Gardens in Salem, Oregon. You can meet Elizabeth at the Willamette Wedding Show in Salem on February 3, 2024 at the Salem Convention Center. What is your role in the business? Wedding Coordinator What is your business specialty and what makes your company unique from others? We can host special events such as weddings, Quinceaneras, retirement parties, business gatherings, and more on our sprawling grounds May-October. We can host intimate events up to 275 guests! Our Formal Gardens were designed by Elizabeth Lord & Edith Schryver during the 1930s. They were the first female landscape architectural firm in the Pacific Northwest. Tell us when and how your business began. The Friends of Deepwood non-profit organization was founded in 1974. We host special events and offer rentals of the formal gardens to raise funds for the care and preservation of Deepwood! What is your location/area you serve? We are located in Salem, Oregon. What should a couple searching for your category know? We have a 4,000 square foot tented court area that acts as a beautiful space for a reception but also as our inclement weather option should the entire event need to be held under cover. We have several gorgeous garden areas that are available for not only ceremony, reception, etc. but also for pictures! How far in advance should a couple book with you? We recommend booking at least six months in advance; however since we can host events seven days a week, we are very flexible to book weddings on shorter notice! Lightning Round:
Mountains or Beach? Beach When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Veterinarian Black Tie or Casual? Casual Go to beverage? Coffee In this Vendor Spotlight we get to learn more about DL Photography by Darcie. Darcie Lafountaine is a wedding photographer based in Salem and serves couples all over Oregon and beyond. You can meet Darcie at the Willamette Wedding Show in Keizer on September 10, 2023 and the Willamette Wedding Show in Salem on February 3, 2024. What is your role in the business? Photographer, videographer, owner do it all gal! What is your business specialty and what makes your company unique from others? DL Photography, owned and operated by the talented Darcie LaFountaine, is the perfect choice for couples seeking to capture the magic of their wedding day in the Willamette Valley. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling through photography, Darcie knows exactly how to create images that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal. As a wedding photographer, Darcie takes the time to get to know each couple, learning about their unique love story and vision for their big day. She works closely with them to create a custom photography plan that perfectly captures their personalities, emotions, and style. From the sweet moments of getting ready to the heartfelt exchange of vows and the joyous celebration that follows, Darcie has an eye for capturing every detail and emotion. Her images are timeless, yet modern, and reflect the true essence of the couple's love and the special moments shared with family and friends. Darcie's photography business is more than just a job to her, it's a passion that she puts her heart and soul into. She understands the importance of preserving the memories of your wedding day, and strives to provide a personalized, stress-free experience that allows you to focus on what really matters - celebrating your love with those closest to you. When you choose DL Photography for your wedding, you can rest assured that you're working with a professional who truly cares about creating a beautiful and meaningful experience for you. With her warm personality and expert eye for detail, Darcie will guide you through the photography process with ease, capturing memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. Tell us when and how your business began. Photographer is in my blood, my grandparents were professional photographer in Portland Oregon and I have always been around the business of photography. I started taking photos for my kids sporting events when they were little, over 13 years ago. Then people were asking me to taking photos of friends and family, and it has blossomed into photographing seniors, families and weddings. What is your location/area you serve? I live in Salem Oregon but will photographer anywhere in Oregon. I have been known to travel to Mexico and Paris as well!! How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then? I have been in the photo industry over 15 years, Wedding industry about 8 years. The biggest change I think I have seen is the evolution of film to digital ~ this has been huge! Everyone has a camera with them all the time, which has been a blessing and a curse. I really like seeing unplugged weddings and seeing more people just wanting to be present in the special day. What should a couple searching for your category know? Every photographer is unique and has their own style. I would highly suggest sitting down with each one that you like and get to know them a little. As a photographer we are with you all day and sometimes with you in the most personal moments in your life. You want to find someone that you work well with and you want to have by your side! I get to know my couples from engagement sessions to wedding day and beyond. I love it when we can become friends and watch your relationships grow. How far in advance should a couple book with you? Currently I am booked 6-8 months out. I book fairly quickly but I also don't over book myself because I want to be able to give you your finished product, your pictures, within weeks not months! What are wedding trends you love? Have you seen the fun video and photos of the couple in the middle of the room and every table or groups of people run up to them and take fun and silly pictures with them! OR when the couple goes to all of the tables at the reception and has super fun and wild pictures with each of them before the song ends. What are wedding trends you wish were over? shoving cake in each others face, garter toss, bouquet toss. (some of these are traditional ones) What are your other hobbies and passions besides creating beautiful wedding days? I love to scrapbook and make cards, which brings out the creative side of me! I like to camp and fish with my family, and I LOVE to travel the world!!! Lightning Round:
Who’s your most played artist on your streaming service? Pitbull and Ed Sheeran Mountains or Beach? Beach When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Fashion Designer Black Tie or Casual? Both Favorite board game? Dominos (not a board game but it's a game) Go to beverage? Dr Pepper!!!! Something people would be surprised to know about you? I am a bit of a Royal family Geek |