Wedding season is upon us.  You might be surprised at how many receptions and even ceremonies we’re still booking just a few months out.  While some venues still have some prime summer openings, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind if you just can’t wait until fall or winter to say those “I dos.”

Save the date or maybe the month
Let everyone you hope is at the ceremony know a date is coming.  Even if you only give them a date—or even a month—of when you plan to do it, they’ll know now to start clearing their schedules to attend and help you in the weeks leading up to it.  Out-of-town guests can even start making travel plans.

Be flexible
Most Saturdays are already full for the summer months, but venues often have a tougher time booking those Friday and Sunday dates.  Many couples are opting for a late Friday ceremony and celebration or a Sunday afternoon event and reception.  (Since they’re not prime days, you may even be able to get a break on the room rental or catering minimum.)  Don’t worry; those guests who are important to you will still come, just as long as you tailor your plans to the day.  Friday couples may want to consider serving hors devours before the ceremony to quell the hunger guests may feel during the ceremony.  Sunday brides and grooms might think about when their guests attend church and other religious activities, then schedule around that.  You may even want to consider whether to serve alcohol on Sundays.

 Help!  I need somebody…or sombodies
Some brides take more than a year to plan the perfect wedding.  If you’re looking to do it in a matter of a couple months, get yourself a team of friends who know you well enough to help you.  Let them scout out locations while you find the perfect DJ or florist.  In the end, you’re still making the final decisions.  They’re just helping you narrow it all down.  Once the planning is done, you and your team of angels can sit down with a bottle of wine and make centerpieces, put together invitations or figure out the RSVP cards.

Through it all, remember to have fun.  You should enjoy all the excitement leading up to your perfect day with that perfect somebody.

Whew!  What a weekend!  Juanita (the best banquet manager in the Wichita area) and I spent our Sunday at a bridal fair talking to grooms and brides-to-be, their friends and moms about their weddings.  So many of the ladies and gentlemen went to the show with the right game plan—talk to everyone. 

Many of those who attended had already booked with another venue and caterer.  It would seem to some to pass by the Hereford House booth.  Still, I had the pleasure of chatting with brides-to-be about where to find the best linen companies and how to add the WOW factor to their receptions.  They knew the best people to talk to about finding the best people are the other best people.

I tell all brides and grooms-to-be who come by the Hereford House, you’re only going to do this once.  There is no learning curve.  Ask questions of everyone.  The professionals you talk to work with different wedding vendors every week.  They know how to spot other quality professionals—so make sure to ask them.

We had a great time designing this year's booth!

We decided to go with one of this year's most popular colors--purple!

We provide the basics to a beautiful table. With just a couple additions to match your uniqe style, you're sure to wow your guests!

Just a reminder that Hereford House will be exhibiting at the Wedding Ideas Bridal Show at the Hyatt on Sunday, October 24th. All events booked at the expo will receive 1/2 off the room rental.

Perhaps in response to a new economy or simply because people seem to be getting back to basics, a new wedding trend is emerging for 2011.  Indeed, large receptions with unlimited budgets are still taking place.  However, more and more Brides are opting for a smaller more intimate gathering and Hereford House at Terradyne is the perfect place to host such events.  Our Hearth Room with its inviting fireplace and grand staircase is the perfect backdrop for an intimate ceremony for up to 50 people.  The room boasts warm amber lighting, a majestic view of the golf course and a grand piano.  Following the ceremony, guests move into the Sterling Room for the reception.  With its wall of windows overlooking the front of the Country Club and winding stream and the rich woodwork, high ceilings and elegant chandeliers – its the perfect space to celebrate your day with those that matter most.

Please stop by the Wedding Ideas Bridal Show at The Hyatt Regency on October 24th.  The event is open to the public from 11am to 4pm.  Event Planner, Joy Amore from Hereford House at Terradyne will be on-site to answer any questions.  It’s the perfect opportunity to come by and explore ideas for your upcoming event!

We’ve been thrilled at the flurry of brides that have been coming to book wedding/reception space for spring and summer of 2011.  Make your appointment now as space is becoming limited.