Brooke’s Wedding Adventures (entry no. 5)

Hey friend! 

 

Today I wanted to talk about the vendors I am using for my wedding and the various ways I’ve included my family and friends in our wedding! 

 

Below is a list of some of the Lynchburg vendors we have booked:

 

Below is a list of the vendor services/businesses owned by some of my friends and family:

 

Other ways my loved ones have helped me throughout this journey include the following: planning bridal showers and parties, offering to do my makeup and hair, making a list of wedding shoe options, offering ceremony music and vocals, providing cocktail food, and even offering videography services! 

Many of these services provided by our friends and family were offered at a discount or in lieu of a wedding gift. I have been incredibly blessed with many gifted and generous people in my life, and it is a dream come true to be able to receive their gifts, talents, and time to make our wedding unique and personal to us and everyone involved! 

Quick note: *DO NOT EXPECT THAT JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE THEIR FAMILY/FRIEND THAT YOU WILL GET FREE OR EVEN DISCOUNTED SERVICES FROM THEM (especially if they own a professional business)*  

While I have been given a great deal of generosity by so many, this does not mean it will be everyone’s experience. However, if you are financially struggling and know someone who might enjoy offering his or her services, there is a proper way to do this without taking advantage of them. Below is an example of how to respectfully and tactfully ask this:

“We wanted to ask if you would be open to the idea of offering [YOUR SERVICE] at a discounted price or in lieu of a wedding gift. We have a limited budget, but the last thing we want to do is undermine your valuable time and talent. We completely understand whatever decision you have to make!”

You will likely find that many are excited to help with even the little tasks. People love weddings, and they love feeling like they are a part of something big and special! So don’t be afraid to receive willing and helping hands – whether it’s stamping invitations, setting up decorations, throwing a DIY décor party, addressing thank-you notes, running a quick errand, etc.

I hope this blog has given you some ideas for how to be wise about your money while also finding ways to include your loved ones in the process. It has been a joy to share they ways my family and friends have supported me throughout my wedding journey.

Until next time!

Brooke