Every bride has a budget, and the “B” word can sometimes become a bad word by the time the wedding actually arrives.

There are so many things you can do to customize your stylish wedding.  Why not try to save a few bucks by purchasing your wedding gown at Once Wed.  This site offers free listings (for those of you needing to sell new or used dress) as well as some great deals on new and gently used designer wedding gowns.  Check it out, you may be able to buy those adorable save-the-dates or edible favors with the cash you will save.  Shown below are a Nicole Miller HG0013 – Used (asking $900) and a Melissa Sweet Lia – NEW (asking $2,200).

Everyone loves cupcakes (at least everyone I know), so I thought it was only fitting to spread some southern charm in the form of cupcakes.� I like to call it the Always Planned – Cupcake Referral Program.

Here is how it works; vendors get our cupcakes and they love us and our cupcakes so much they want to refer Always Planned all of the time. It’s really a win-win for everyone involved.

If you are a vendor in the Lexington, KY area call us today to see how you can become a member or the Cupcake Referral Program.

I just love flowers, but as I stumbled across Emplume and their feather bouquets, I realized I may have converted.  I adore these beautiful alternatives to flowers, and I can almost guarantee most bride’s in Central Kentucky have yet to see these stunning showpieces.

Each piece is custom made to fit your style and theme with prices for bridal bouquets starting at $150.00, maids at $100 and bouts at $20.  Keep in mind that unlike flowers these will last a lifetime.

LOVE THEM!

WOW! We are so honored to have been nominated for the “Best-of WLKY Wedding Planners”, but in order to win – we need your vote.

Please go to WLKY to cast your vote for Always Planned. This is a two-step process, you must verify your email address for your vote to count.  (You will not receive spam or junk email because of this.)

Always Planned is already ranked #4, but we want to be in the top 3.

Thanks for your help!

P.S. Raving Reviews are always appreciated.

I have a very special place in my heart for barn weddings.  Andrew and I were the first to use the big barn at Talon Winery in May 2005. Having an outdoor wedding and barn reception can be a huge undertaking – just any barn will not do.  Here are a couple of ideas for making your barn reception a little more custom.

By using large illuminated trees you bring an intimate feel to your reception.  Make your guests feel like family by using one long table and serving the food “family-style”.

For your Barn Reception, call Cheryl at Talon Winery or check out The Historic Round Barn at Red Mile and The Kentucky Horse Park.

We at Always Planned love weddings, especially those that offer a different and unique experience. This idea takes the latest craze of coffee to a new level.  You can simply add a gourmet coffee stand to your reception for those that enjoy a nice cup of coffee, or you can go all out.  If you choose to do the latter, here are some fun suggestions.

Make your entire wedding and reception coffee-house themed.  By using dark chocolates and cream with one bright accent as your colors, you can really add to the atmosphere and atmosphere is what you are after.  For the complete coffee-house theme you need a live band (jazz, swing or big-band would be great).  Candles and coffee beans can make great centerpieces for small 4-6 person tables.  The smaller seating arrangements, candlelight and soft music really play up the theme.

Now for the food, flowers and cake.  To do it right, your coffee-house needs to offer a variety of specialty drinks as well as a selection for the non-coffee drinkers.  The food can be as elaborate as you wish.  I suggest sticking with the basics of coffee cakes, muffins, cheesecakes and danishes.  Throw in some fruit and a gourmet cheese selection and I think you have a wonderful spread.  Flowers can pick up your accent color and if you choose to do a cake have your bakery design something extra-special to go along with your theme.

Remember, it’s your wedding and it should reflect your relationship, style and personalities!

I am excited to announce that Always Planned has entered the blogging world. Andrew and I already have a blog over at www.TheOrtweins.com, but this blog is different. Here you will find great information about Kentucky wedding and event vendors, unique items for your upcoming event and the latest happenings for Always Planned. So visit often and don’t forget to leave comments.