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What Comes Next?

YAY! You've just secured your wedding venue! This is one of the biggest decisions in the planning process, and it sets the tone for everything that follows. Once the celebration settles, it’s time to move confidently into the next phase of planning!


First, hire your core vendors (ASAP). Your top priority after the venue should be vendors who are date-dependent and book far in advance. Start with a wedding planner or coordinator, followed closely by your caterer. At Blackstone Rivers Ranch, both of these vendors need to be hired from our Required Vendor List. These professionals help guide all remaining decisions. Next, secure your photographer, videographer, DJ or band, and florist - especially if you’re planning a peak-season wedding.


Next, build your look and feel. Once catering is booked and your guest count is taking shape, you can begin selecting rentals like tables, chairs, tableware, linens, and specialty items. This usually happens 6–9 months out. Don’t worry - this phase is often guided by your planner and caterer, ensuring quantities, styles, and layouts align with your venue and overall vision.


Florals, lighting, signage, and tabletop details typically come together after rentals are selected. By this point, you’ll have a clear sense of your color palette, seasonality, and budget priorities.


About 4 weeks before your wedding, you’ll attend a virtual final details meeting - often with your caterer, venue staff, and planner. This is where timelines, floor plans, menu selections, bar service, rentals, and logistics are confirmed. Think of it as the moment when all planning transitions into execution.


If you’re feeling overwhelmed, that’s completely normal. Booking your venue is the “yes” - everything that follows is simply building the day around it, one thoughtful step at a time.


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