From Wedding Planner, Danielle Pasternak
Wedding planning tips, resources, and inspiration
Why I Don’t Offer Day-Of Coordination (and Why You Deserve So Much More)
Many couples consider day-of coordination services, thinking they’ll ease wedding planning stress. However, coming in at the last minute can often add to that stress instead of alleviating it. In this post, I share why my Signature Coordination service — where I support you from the very beginning — creates a smoother, more enjoyable planning experience. By earning your trust and being involved throughout, I ensure that every detail is managed, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: fully experiencing the joy of your engagement and wedding day without worry.
The Art of the Wedding Seating Chart: Tips and Tricks
Creating the perfect wedding seating chart is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable reception. This guide offers a step-by-step approach to organizing your seating arrangements, from grouping guests and considering relationships to strategically placing important guests and using digital tools. Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring guest comfort and managing family dynamics effectively. Follow these tips to make your wedding seating chart a success.
Wedding Party or Party of Two: Debating the Decision
As a seasoned wedding planner based in Philadelphia, I've seen couples grapple with the age-old question: Do we really need a wedding party? In a city known for its vibrant celebrations, the trend towards a more intimate affair has caught my attention. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of having a wedding party, offer alternative options for involving loved ones, and ultimately, encourage you to choose what feels right for you and your partner. Let's navigate the maze of wedding planning together, shall we?
Must-Have Items for Getting Ready on your Wedding Day
As your wedding day draws near, the flurry of excitement and nerves is all too real. You've got your venue locked in, your attire fitted to perfection, and your heart set on a day you'll never forget. But before you say "I do," there's a chapter of the day that demands your attention: the morning of your wedding.
In previous articles, I’ve delved into the intricacies of What to Wear the Morning Of Your Wedding and Six Things To Remember For Getting Ready On Your Wedding Day for a smooth getting-ready process. If you haven't already, be sure to check those out. Today, we're taking it a step further by highlighting the must-have items that will be your steadfast companions as you and your VIPs get ready for the day.
Party Like a Philadelphian: A Deep Dive into the “East Coast” Wedding Reception Timeline
Discover the perfect dance of tradition and celebration with this guide to an East Coast wedding reception timeline. From intimate pre-dinner moments to the grand finale on the dance floor, this insider's view unveils the unique rhythm of a Philly-style celebration. Learn how to customize your East Coast timeline, collaborate with vendors seamlessly, and explore our Wedding Timeline template for a stress-free planning experience.
Favorite Wedding Splurges To Elevate Your Day
I’m a firm believer that couples should invest in the parts of a wedding that mean the most to them. Outside of the four major aspects of hosting any event (providing food, drink, entertainment, and comfort), I think you — as the couple — are allowed to do (and not do) what makes the most sense for you.
But, in my many years as a wedding planner, there have been a few “splurge” items that can really enhance the day — especially from a guest experience.
Your Guide to Creating the Perfect Wedding Welcome Bag for Your Guests
As a couple, one of the most thoughtful gestures you can make for your guests is to prepare wedding welcome bags. These little goodie bags not only express your gratitude for their presence but also set the tone for an unforgettable and smooth wedding experience.
Whether you're hosting your event in a bustling city, like Philadelphia, or a charming countryside, like the rolling hills of Bucks County, I've compiled a comprehensive list of items to include in your wedding welcome bags that will delight and pamper your guests.
Pocket Timelines: The Best Tool for a Stress-Free Day
The wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with love and a flurry of activities. To ensure that everything runs smoothly, having a well-organized timeline is crucial. But sharing that BIG timeline with the VIPs is simply too much. That's where Pocket Timelines come in.
8 Practical Wedding Attire Tips for Comfort
With all of the planning and preparation that goes into a wedding day, it’s easy to forget that what you’ll be wearing throughout the day ALSO requires some planning and prep.
For most marriers, there’s quite a bit of thought put into WHAT they’re going to wear on their wedding day. But, there is far more to consider when it comes to making sure you actually feel (relatively) comfortable.
Six of my Favorite Wedding Venues in the Lehigh Valley, Bucks-Mont, and Philadelphia areas
It’s been a few years since I did a roundup of some of favorite wedding venues in the area. The first one I did was in 2015, followed by another in 2018. Clearly, this is long overdue for an update as we’ve worked at several absolutely INCREDIBLE venues since then.
This list includes some unique and beautiful venues throughout the Lehigh Valley, Bucks-Mont, and Philadelphia areas that I love working with.
What to Consider Before Asking Children To Be In Your Wedding Party
Children can be an adorable addition to your wedding party. But they can also add a level of stress and logistical hurdles that might not be something you want for your wedding day.
If you’re on the fence about the idea of including children in your wedding party, here’s the questions to consider before making your final decision.
Navigating the Holidays When You’re Planning a Wedding
Being engaged around the holidays can feel a bit like a Hallmark movie. You have your matching PJs. You’re drinking hot cocoa out of your “just engaged” mugs. And maybe you’re snuggled under a cozy blanket gazing at your first tree together.
But, depending on your family, it can also be a really stressful time and bring about some difficult situations.
In order to help you navigate the holidays in a way that feels respectful, manageable, and perhaps even joyful, here are my best tips.
Wedding Management or Signature Coordination: Which is best for you?
While there a few different ways you can work with me, the two most common options are Wedding Management and Signature Coordination. Since planning services aren’t quite as obvious as other vendor categories, I’ve broken down some ways to determine which might be the better fit for you.
What’s the best month to get married in Philadelphia?
Not sure which month you should get married in Philadelphia? There’s no right or wrong, but there are several factors to consider when making your decision.
Wedding Boom of 2022: What it Means for You
According to The Wedding Report, 2022 is projected to have 2.6 million weddings take place – a number that hasn’t been seen since 1984.
And while it’s AMAZING to see such an exciting return to weddings, this sudden increase – particularly after some incredibly difficult years – is having some major repercussions that you should be aware of.
Pros and Cons of a Sweetheart Table
You’ve put a lot of thought into where your guests will sit at your wedding reception — but what about where you and your partner will sit? A common question couples with a seated reception ask is, “Should we do a Sweetheart Table?”
There are certainly pros and cons to doing a Sweetheart Table, but what it comes down to is what feels best for you two.
Meet “Betty”, the Emergency Kit Bag for Wedding Planners – plus a free download
For a wedding planner, being prepared means having a well-stocked emergency kit with anything you might need. And it is so important to your wedding day running smoothly that the emergency kit becomes a vital part of the team.
7 Wedding Registry Tips for the Modern Couple
With more couples living together before tying the knot than ever before, wedding registries have evolved quite a bit over the years. There are online and alternative options to help you build a registry that truly reflects your modern relationship.
