journal

Unless you have experience in event planning, you may not know the difference between seating charts, place cards, and escort cards. Southern Bash is here to help!

A Seating Chart is just that – a chart with names and table numbers. This can be on a mirror, large sign, list of the back of a program, or even a QR code. Seating charts are usually listed by table number, but if you have a large guest count, I suggest alphabetical order so it is quicker for your guests to find their names and tables.

Bailey and Connor’s wedding day was a colorful, beautiful, modern extravaganza at the Hotel Swexan – giving Texas as well as European vibes!

The Hotel Swexan was the perfect backdrop for this glamorous Downtown Dallas wedding. Millie May’s bright flowers accented the day while guests could observe the Dallas skyline as they waited for the ceremony to start, enjoying music by strings from Intensity Band.

First things first: congratulations! If you got engaged over the holidays, you’re likely still floating somewhere between champagne toasts, family hugs, and showing everyone the ring (as you should). Before you dive headfirst into wedding planning, here’s what actually needs to happen next — and what can wait.

1. Enjoy the Time

This season goes by fast. Before spreadsheets, Pinterest boards, and guest counts take over your brain, soak this in. Tell the story. Celebrate with friends. Take photos. Let it feel special.

From “I Do” to Tee Time: Abby & Kevin’s Wedding Day Detour

Some wedding days follow tradition. Abby and Kevin’s followed them.

Set in McKinney, Texas, their wedding day was the perfect blend of classic elegance, meaningful details, and one unforgettable twist — a wedding day break that sent the newlyweds and the wedding party straight from their ceremony to Topgolf for a little tee time before the reception.

Your wedding send-off is more than a tradition — it’s the final moments of your wedding day, surrounded by everyone you love. No matter what idea you choose, Southern Bash is here to help you plan every detail.

Here are some fun ideas:

1. Biodegradable Confetti – Everyone loves a confetti moment! Biodegradable confetti offers the same aesthetic of traditional confetti while being environmentally friendly — making it perfect for outdoor venues.

Curious about veils? Southern Bash has got you covered!!

Type of Veils and When to Wear Them

Short veils are perfect for brides who want a traditional look without overwhelming their dress. These veils usually fall around the shoulders, making them lightweight and easy to manage. If your dress has statement sleeves, unique straps, or detailed bodice work, a short veil will let those features stand out while still giving you a classic bridal style.

Whether they are part of your wedding party or only attending, communication with your guests is important throughout your wedding planning process. Here are some of the best ways to ensure everyone is informed and on the same page.

Your save-the-dates will be the first wedding announcement and will include the initial details about your wedding weekend, sent out to everyone you plan to invite. They are typically mailed 8 to 12 months or 4 to 8 months before the wedding, depending on how far or close your wedding location is to the majority of your guests. You can also do this digitally to save money.

As a wedding planner, I have the opportunity to work at many venues across North Texas, but the Grand Ivory is always one I look forward to. The ceremony space is one of the most beautiful parts of the property because it creates the feeling of being both outdoors and indoors at the same time. The structure allows light and air to move through the space while still providing a defined setting for the ceremony. As couples exchange vows, the sun often sets directly behind them, which creates an incredible backdrop for both the moment itself and for photos.

Our team at Southern Bash loves working at Bella Cavalli Events. The venue is truly a hidden gem tucked behind trees at the end of a winding road. Located just outside the city of Denton, in Aubrey, Texas, it makes for an easy commute for guests traveling from outside and within the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Instantly upon arrival, the venue offers a quiet, peaceful, and rustic-chic environment, even on a rainy day.

Kat and Daniel traveled from Florida to Texas with one goal in mind—creating an intimate elopement that felt uniquely them. Their wedding day at Bella Donna Chapel in McKinney, Texas blended romance, personality, and a true Texas experience.

The celebration began the day before the wedding with a playful photo session at Pinstack. Surrounded by colorful arcade games and bright lights, Kat and Daniel embraced their fun-loving personalities. The relaxed, carefree atmosphere made for unforgettable photos and videos by Silver Bear Creative and set the tone for a wedding experience that was anything but traditional.