Hello, engaged couples! Welcome to Seven with Kevin, a new blog series where Fantasy Sound Event Service’s very own, Kevin Dennis, will regularly share seven tips about different aspects of the wedding planning process to relieve some of that inevitable stress! With over 35 years of experience in the industry, Kevin has seen it all – and now he’s passing along his tips to help you not only reduce stress but stay organized, and enjoy every step of your journey to ‘I do’. Whether you just popped the question or are deep in the details, these insights will guide you toward a smoother and more enjoyable wedding experience. So, let’s dive into Seven Things Wedding Vendors Wish Couples Knew!

1. We Wish We Knew Couples’ Budgets
We all know money can be a taboo topic to discuss, but you need to set a wedding budget! Kevin wanted to share this tip first, as it’s the first step you should take before getting too deep into all the booking, planning, and spending. How can you research photographers, venues, and DJs without first deciding what funds will be allocated where? Trust us: setting a budget will save you so much time, energy, and frustration in the long run.
Kevin mentioned that he sees so many couples enter their first consultation without discussing a budget with their partners and, therefore, don’t know what they can and can’t afford. Coming prepared with a number in mind will create much less work for your vendor team and help them guide you toward packages and items that fit your budget but are still within your dream vision. So, pull out that calculator, sit your partner down, and get to work!
2. We Wish Couples Would Embrace the Guest Experience at Their Wedding
This sentiment is shared by many wedding vendors and creative partners, and for good reason. Yes, the wedding day is mainly about you, your fiance, and your love. Still, we assure you weddings become truly memorable when couples prioritize their guests’ comfort and enjoyment above all else. It’s all about putting yourself in their shoes (or heels) and making thoughtful choices – like avoiding an outdoor ceremony during the peak of summer heat or providing engaging activities like a photo booth or lawn games to keep everyone entertained. Fantasy Sound offers some fantastic photo booth options if you’re still in the market and you’ve set your budget!
When you put your guests first, you leave them talking about your wedding for years and in the best way possible. As Kevin reminisced about his own wedding, he said, “I got married 16 years ago this year, and people still mention mine and my wife’s wedding to us!” A little extra thought and care can turn your big day into a lasting memory for everyone.
3. We Wish Couples Would Continue to Fall in Love with Each Other During Wedding Planning
Alright, we know it sounds cheesy, but it’s true! A big thing we say around here is, “Wedding planning happens around life, not the other way around.” It’s easy to get swept up in wedding planning, and we know it can be exciting, but it’s important not to let it take over your relationship. Make time on your calendar to enjoy each other’s company outside the stressful seating charts and elaborate wedding favors. Go on a nice date, stroll around your neighborhood, or catch a new movie together.
Kevin says that while setting aside dedicated wedding planning days is helpful, remember that your wedding should complement your life, not consume it. By prioritizing your time together, you’ll keep love at the center of your journey and remember why you’re doing this in the first place!
4. We Wish Couples Would Be More Thorough in Their Communication
This is your reminder that clear, consistent communication can make all the difference on your wedding day. Kevin recalls that all too many times, vendors will receive conflicting instructions from a couple or aren’t kept in the loop. This lack of communication can create unnecessary stress and misalignment for your team, leaving them working against each other instead of together. All of this can lead to avoidable chaos and take away from your ability to fully enjoy your special day. After all your hard work, you don’t want to throw it away when simple communication is your solution.
By ensuring your entire vendor team is on the same page and relaying the same information, you’ll set the stage for a smoother, more harmonious celebration. This will allow you to focus on what really matters: your love and making precious memories.
5. We Wish Couples Would Dedicate More Time to Creating Their Wedding Playlist
Music is the heartbeat of your wedding, and you should compile a selection that truly resonates with you and your love story. After speaking on this topic with Kevin and our other Fantasy Sound Disc Jockeys, many couples put off their playlist selections until the last minute. Unfortunately, this results in them allowing their DJ to make all their music choices. When DJs go into a wedding with minimal guidance, they’re left to make general choices or just pick the most popular songs. While your DJ may consider this the safest option, their music may not fully resonate with you and your unique taste.
As much as I’m sure your DJ would love to, they don’t know that much about your relationship to make those meaningful decisions for you. They’re only given a small window during planning meetings to get to know you. Investing time in curating the perfect playlist ensures your wedding soundtrack feels personal and special to you. After all, you don’t want to look back and think, “The DJ picked that song??” Make it your own!
6. We Wish Couples Would Read 😉
Okay, this may sound a bit harsh…but we mean it! Wedding vendors and creative partners spend countless hours composing emails and documents filled with valuable information to make your wedding planning smoother. These aren’t just formalities; they’re tools designed to help you! With years of experience in the wedding industry under their belts, vendors often anticipate your questions and provide answers ahead of time. By thoroughly reading the resources sent your way, you’ll save time and stress on both sides and when you have additional questions, you’ll know where to look first.
7. We Wish Couples Were on the Same Page
Kevin’s last tip, and one of the most important, is to be on the same page as your partner. Ensuring you and your fiance are aligned on your likes, dislikes, dynamics, and decisions for the big day is so incredibly vital. When couples present a united front, the planning process is smoother and less awkward for everyone involved – especially when it comes to meeting with your vendors. Nothing is more uncomfortable than witnessing one partner disagree with the other in real-time. Remember, it’s YOUR wedding. Your vendor team is there to guide you, not dictate your choices. As Kevin likes to say, “I’m Switzerland!” Your vendors can lead you to water, but ultimately, your wedding decisions should reflect your shared preferences as a couple. By working together and communicating openly, you’ll reduce stress and create a perfect day representing both of you.