The couple usually chooses the church and the reception location. Even so, it’s advisable to double check the facilities’ use policy. For example, some church fellowship halls may prohibit alcohol or dancing at the reception. The couple will also probably choose their own clothing, but it helps to at least be aware of the style and color in order to coordinate the other aspects of the wedding.

Color scheme and theme if any will help in the planning process. Flowers, both for bouquets and Decorations, will need to be chosen and ordered. Music for the wedding itself may provided by an organist or vocalist, or may be a recording, in which case someone will be needed to operate the Sound System. A Photographer may provide both video and still photographs. Again, check policies; some churches restrict photography within the sanctuary. Following the wedding is usually the reception. Refreshments may consist of punch and Wedding Cake, or may encompass a Full Meal. Simple refreshments allow more options in seating; while sit-down dinners require Table Settings. Music may either be live or recorded. A DJ will probably have his own Sound Equipment, as will most Musicians. It’s a good idea to review specifics with the DJ—“oldies” for a baby boomer may mean 50s or 60s music, while a younger DJ may consider 80s music to be “oldies”. Decorations may be suggested by color or theme.

A professional wedding planner can help to coordinate all the details to make sure that the wedding runs smoothly. Making sure that expectations are clear and reasonable will go a long way in preventing disappointments and making this special day the memory of a lifetime.