Brittany Bays
wedding planning guide
First of all, congratulations on your engagement! Wedding planning can seem overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, you’ll be able to design a day that truly reflects your unique love story. As you dive into planning, here’s a guide to help you get started.
My 15 years of experience as a wedding photographer have immersed me in the beautiful world of weddings. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing hundreds of weddings unfold—from the intricate details of decor to the emotional moments shared between couples and their families.
Over the years, I've collaborated closely with talented wedding planners and other vendors, which has given me valuable insights into the planning process. I’ve learned what makes weddings successful, what common challenges arise, and how to ensure that the day flows smoothly. My goal is to share this knowledge with you, providing helpful tips and guidance as you embark on this exciting journey.
I’m here to support you in creating a wedding day that’s not only stunning but also deeply personal and reflective of your unique love story.
Let the journey begin!
"The best thing to hold onto in life is each other."
— Audrey Hepburn
Consider Investing in a Planner
One of the best decisions you can make early on is whether to hire a wedding planner. Here are some key benefits to consider:
Expertise and Experience: Wedding planners have extensive experience in organizing weddings and can provide invaluable insights. They understand the nuances of the industry, including vendor relationships, timelines, and logistics, which can help you avoid common pitfalls.
Time-Saving: Planning a wedding can be a full-time job. A wedding planner takes on the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process rather than getting bogged down in details. They handle the research, communication with vendors, and coordination of logistics, freeing up your time for other priorities.
Budget Management: A planner can help you create and stick to your budget. They know how to allocate funds wisely, and recommend vendors that fit within your price range.
Stress Reduction: Weddings can be stressful, and having a planner by your side can significantly reduce anxiety. They’ll manage any unexpected issues that arise on the day of the wedding, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment.
Creative Vision: Planners are skilled at bringing your vision to life. They can help you refine your ideas, suggest themes, and provide design concepts that align with your personal style. Their expertise can transform your dreams into reality, resulting in a cohesive and beautifully executed event.
Day-of Coordination: On your wedding day, the last thing you want to worry about is coordinating timelines, managing vendors, or troubleshooting issues. A wedding planner ensures that everything runs smoothly, from the setup to the ceremony and reception. They serve as the point of contact for all vendors, allowing you and your families to focus on celebrating.
Problem Solving: When things don’t go as planned (which can happen!), a wedding planner is a pro at finding quick solutions. Their experience allows them to anticipate potential challenges and address them before they become significant issues, ensuring a seamless experience for you and your guests.
Planner
recommendations
Here are a few wedding planners I know personally, have worked with and provide exceptional service:
KMC Weddings & EVENTS
“For over sixteen years, I have enjoyed creating all of the gorgeous details that go into a wedding and focusing on the guest experience of the day. Planning a wedding should be enjoyable and our team is here to make sure you get the most of our time together and that you find yourself with a wedding that is uniquely you.”
– Karen Collins, Owner
Lauren Wolf Events
“Two of my favorite things are solving problems and seeing people happy – so you might be able to see why I’ve gravitated toward planning weddings! The relationships I build with each of my clients are cherished friendships, and seeing all of the work that we put in together to make their dream wedding day come to life is what I love the most!”
– Lauren Wolf, Owner
Wolf & Bird
“From ideation and design through planning and final execution, our unwavering commitment is to create a celebration that honors you and your unique story. We work with clients to design, style and plan weddings that tell their love story, celebrate their heritage and make guests feel like family in Cincinnati and beyond.”
– Laura Wolf & Emily White, Owners
Book Your Venue
Choosing your wedding venue is one of the most important first steps in planning. The venue sets the tone for your celebration and often determines the availability of other key vendors, such as your florist, photographer, and videographer. Securing your venue early ensures you can book the dream team of professionals who will bring your vision to life. Here’s how to approach it:
City: Deciding between a destination wedding and a hometown celebration comes down to what matters most to you as a couple. Consider your vision for the day: Do you dream of an intimate ceremony in a breathtaking location or a larger gathering surrounded by familiar faces and places? Think about your guest list—how many loved ones would travel with you, and how important is their presence? Budget and logistics also play a role, as destination weddings may require more planning but can sometimes simplify choices like guest count and venue availability. Ultimately, the decision is about creating a day that feels authentic to your relationship and reflects the love you want to share with those closest to you.
Date: Consider the season, weather, and holidays. Popular wedding dates can fill up quickly!
Venue: If planning a wedding locally, visit multiple venues to get a feel for what matches your style and accommodates your guest count. Think about whether the venue aligns with your vision—does it offer the right atmosphere, and is it easy for your guests to access?
venues
Cincinnati offers a range of incredible venues. Whether you're seeking a cozy, intimate setting or a grand space with architectural charm, there are local spots that will suit your style. Some of my favorite places blend elegant ambiance with top-notch service, creating the perfect atmosphere to kick off your wedding weekend. I've had the pleasure of photographing at all of these locations, and I know they’ll add something truly special to your celebration. Here are a few recommendations that might be just what you're looking for!
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![Elegant wedding reception setup with long wooden tables, cane-back chairs, white floral centerpieces, and candles, in a tented outdoor venue.]()
Green Acres Arts Center
One of the most exclusive and truly magical venues in the United States, this historic estate with lush gardens provides a stunning backdrop, with weddings custom designed in an elegant tent to perfectly reflect your vision. This venue offers a unique blend of natural beauty and timeless sophistication.
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![Large brick house with black shutters, a circular driveway, white picket fence, and manicured lawn and gardens.]()
Meshewa House
A beautifully renovated historic estate nestled on 230 acres of farmland in Indian Hill, the estate exudes refined elegance, with its timeless architecture. Thoughtfully restored interiors and expansive grounds create a perfect blend of sophistication and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable backdrop for celebrations.
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![A bride and groom stand in an elegant ballroom with a wooden paneled wall, large mural, and chandeliers. White round tables with flower arrangements are in the background.]()
The Cincinnati Club
Nestled in the heart of downtown, this historic club boasts stunning architecture and sophisticated interiors, offering a romantic backdrop for your wedding. With beautifully appointed event spaces that can accommodate both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions, this venue provides exceptional service and attention to detail.
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![Elegant wedding reception setup with a tiered cake, floral arrangements, and seating area on a checkered floor.]()
Hilton Netherland Plaza
The HNP combines historic elegance with modern luxury. Its Art Deco architecture and breathtaking ballrooms, including the renowned Hall of Mirrors, create a timeless and glamorous atmosphere for your big day. With its central location in the heart of downtown, it offers both convenience and grandeur for you and your guests.
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![Bride and groom standing outside Peterloon Estate, with the bride in a white dress holding a bouquet and the groom in a black suit, surrounded by greenery. Cincinnati Wedding.]()
Peterloon Estate
Peterloon’s old-world elegance, natural outdoor beauty, and opulent interiors provide a timeless, picturesque backdrop for your wedding day. With its stunning European-inspired architecture and expansive gardens, this historic estate offers both grandeur and intimacy, creating a truly unforgettable setting for your celebration.
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![A cozy living room with green walls, a fireplace, and a large flat-screen TV above it. The room features a mix of green, blue, and brown furniture including a green velvet sectional, blue armchairs, a yellow patterned armchair, and a brown armchair. There are bookshelves with decorative items, a colorful patterned rug on wooden floors, and various lamps providing warm lighting.]()
The Mercantile Library
The Mercantile Library offers its beautifully preserved space to members for weddings, private events, and photo sessions. With soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and acoustics that carry both music and conversation with elegance, the library’s historic rooms are a rare architectural gem—refined, atmospheric, and unforgettable.
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![A bride and groom stand kissing in a hallway of an art gallery, surrounded by framed paintings and sculptures.]()
Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum offers a stunning and unique setting for your wedding, surrounded by an impressive collection of art and breathtaking architecture. With its picturesque outdoor terrace and beautifully designed galleries, the museum allows for a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor celebrations.
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The Monastery
The Monastery Event Center in Mt. Adams is a one-of-a-kind venue that blends historic charm with modern sophistication. Once a 19th-century chapel, this beautifully restored space features vaulted ceilings and gorgeous, large windows that flood the giant room with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
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![Art Deco building with clock and flowers in foreground]()
Union Terminal
Housed in a stunning Art Deco landmark, this historic space offers soaring ceilings, beautiful architectural details, and a distinctive ambiance, blending elegance with a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a larger celebration, the museum center’s versatile spaces will ensure a memorable evening.
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![People socializing outside a historic brick building at an outdoor event. They are dressed formally, and tables with drinks are set up.]()
The Carnegie Center
Located in Columbia Tusculum, this this beautifully restored old library features stunning natural light that creates an intimate setting for your special day. With a variety of event spaces, including elegant indoor rooms and a lovely outdoor patio, the Carnegie can accommodate both small gatherings and larger celebrations.
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![A couple getting married under an arch with green foliage. The groom is wearing a blue suit, and the bride is in a white wedding dress and veil. They are holding hands, surrounded by wedding guests seated and clapping. The setting appears to be indoors.]()
Hotel Covington
This boutique hotel is known for its chic atmosphere, beautifully designed interiors, and exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, Hotel Covington’s event spaces provide a warm, inviting ambiance perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
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![Stone building with arched balcony and string lights]()
Alms Park
With its elegant pavilion, and stunning views of the Ohio River and Lunken Airport, it’s a dreamy venue for couples seeking an outdoor ceremony or reception. Whether exchanging vows under the iconic pergola or capturing portraits in the beautiful gardens, it’s a perfect location for intimate gatherings.
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![Bride and groom walking together in a garden, the bride in a white gown holding a bouquet, the groom in a black suit and bow tie.]()
Ault Park
A stunning outdoor setting renowned for its picturesque landscapes, Ault Park provides a romantic backdrop that perfectly complements both outdoor ceremonies and receptions. With various spaces to choose from, including the Rose Garden and Pavilion, your wedding can be tailored to fit your vision and style.
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![Outdoor wedding reception setup under a tent with elegant lighting, draped fabric, decorated tables and chairs, and floral centerpieces on grass.]()
The French House
Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, this historic home features stunning architectural details and inviting indoor spaces that create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. With a picturesque outdoor patio and lush grounds, this venue offers a backdrop for both ceremonies and custom tented receptions.
Destination
Weddings
Destination weddings are a magical way to celebrate your love story in a stunning and unique setting, and I absolutely adore capturing these unforgettable moments abroad. With my experience traveling to incredible destinations like Ireland, France, and Italy, I bring a seasoned eye and deep appreciation for the beauty and culture of new places. Whether you’re envisioning a sun-soaked celebration along the Amalfi Coast or a romantic ceremony in a quaint Irish castle, I’m here to ensure your memories are preserved beautifully. To make your planning process seamless, I highly recommend partnering with KMC Destinations, an expert in curating destination weddings. Karen excels at guiding couples through selecting the perfect venue and connecting with the best local vendors, so you can focus on enjoying your dream wedding adventure.
Build your dream team
From your planner to your florist and videographer, surrounding yourselves with a team you trust will make a world of difference. Choosing vendors who understand your vision and bring their expertise will make the process smoother and your day stress-free.
Vendor
recommendations
Here’s some of my favorite local vendors that I’ve had the pleasure of working with:
DANCE LESSONS
Celebrate the Process
Wedding planning can be a whirlwind, so don’t forget to pause and enjoy this season together. It’s about more than just the day itself—it's the journey leading up to it. Amid the planning chaos, remember to enjoy this special time in your life. Here are some ideas:
Set Date Nights: Dedicate time for just the two of you to discuss wedding plans or take breaks from planning.
Celebrate Milestones: Treat yourselves when you reach planning milestones, like booking your venue or finalizing your guest list.
As you pull together your dream team of vendors, remember that each choice you make will add another layer to the beautiful story of your day. I believe that working with trusted, talented professionals allows you to relax and enjoy every moment, knowing you’re in good hands. Here’s to a celebration that feels true to you and is filled with memories you'll cherish forever!
