From wedding vendors to you...

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Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting seasons of your life, and with a clear vision and thoughtful checklist, it can also be a joyful and stress-free experience. Whether you’re saying "I do" beneath the moss-draped oaks of Jacksonville, on the historic streets of St. Augustine, or along the sunlit shores of Sarasota, the first step is to define your wedding vision. Think about how you want your day to feel. Is it romantic and intimate? Bold and editorial? Classic and timeless? This vision will guide every decision moving forward—from your venue and dress to your photography style. As a wedding photographer capturing timeless, editorial images across North Florida and the West Coast, I always encourage couples to align their aesthetic early on to create a cohesive, meaningful day that reflects their love story.

Once you’ve envisioned your day, it’s time to dive into researching vendors who not only bring your vision to life but also make you feel supported and understood. From planners in Gainesville to florists in Tampa, take time to explore reviews, portfolios, and websites. Look for vendors who specialize in your wedding style and who operate in the Florida cities where you're planning. Be sure to save your favorites and organize them using a wedding checklist that allows you to keep everything in one place. Bonus tip: reach out to your dream vendors early—especially photographers, planners, and venues—as these tend to book up quickly in areas like St. Pete and St. Augustine, especially during Florida’s peak wedding season.

Think about what makes your relationship unique: is it your love for coastal sunsets in St. Pete, weekend strolls through Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods, or your shared passion for timeless style and meaningful moments? Choose vendors who understand your vision and can translate it into thoughtful details—like a planner who specializes in laid-back luxury or a florist who can bring your favorite memories to life through blooms. When couples are intentional about selecting creatives who “get” them, the result is a wedding day that feels true to who they are and translates effortlessly into stunning, editorial imagery that stands the test of time.

Lastly, your wedding budget should be a flexible roadmap, not a rigid set of rules. Build it around your priorities—whether that’s investing in a full-day photography collection that captures timeless moments, or bringing in a high-touch planner to manage the day. Use your checklist to space out expenses and know when to reach out to certain vendors. For example, florals and catering typically come after you’ve locked in your venue and photographer. And if you're planning from out of town—maybe you live in Tampa but your dream venue is in Gainesville—a checklist is your best friend for staying organized and confident throughout the journey. Most of all, give yourself grace. Planning your Florida wedding should be filled with joy, care, and celebration, every step of the way.