Dream Wedding Receptions, Part I
A&M Gardens is one of the most popular spots in the Metroplex for a wedding ceremony and reception. Their well tended gardens with fountains and bridges make it a picture perfect setting for an outdoor wedding. I think they have thought of everything-they even have artificial turf which drains quickly in case of rain. I think that is so cool! I recently asked Melody Shelton, who co-owns the facility with her husband Allen, for wedding ideas on how a bride can truly have her dream wedding reception. This is what she told me:
First, dream it. Sit back and close your eyes, take a deep breath and think about walking into your wedding reception holding your husband’s hand. What would you like to see? Do you imagine the glint of crystals hanging everywhere catching the light or candles and rose petals everywhere you turn? Do you picture lanterns with sunflowers or willows with hydrangeas? Whatever your dream, you can make it happen!
Second, we have to talk about that evil word, “budget”. Now, this word does not have to invoke shudders and chills, it can actually be your friend. Start by sitting down with whoever will be contributing to the day and get a realistic idea of what funds you have to work with. Next, make a list, 1 to 10 with 1 being the most important and 10 being the least important. This will help with you planning where your money will go and simplify things. In my personal opinion, the venue and DJ should be at the top of your list.
Wedding Ceremony at A&M Gardens
The wedding venue you choose will actually determine how the bulk of your budget is spent. Try to choose a venue that comes with at least the basic necessities you will need for your reception. A location that includes tables, chairs, linens and centerpieces will save you so much money, time, and frustration. If you can find a wedding site that allows you to bring in the vendors of your choice, even better!
Have you ever gone to a wedding where everything was amazing but the DJ seemed completely unorganized or you could not understand a word the man or women said? All the planning in the world will not make up for a bad DJ-they set the mood for the entire evening, and a good one keeps everything running smoothly and on time. Ask for referrals and research the company/DJ online. Your other vendors can be a fountain of information, so ask if they have anyone they prefer.
Catering and cakes can be very tricky. It is important to get all the details before you put down a deposit. Make sure you ask that all staff, gratuities and taxes are included in the price you receive. Also, get pricing per person, so if your guest count goes up or down, you can adjust your budget accordingly.
Photography is such an important part of your day but it does not have to break the bank. Take the time to go through several albums of weddings he/she has shot. Ask if the photographer has ever shot at your wedding venue and if you can see the photographs. Photography students are great to connect with because their rates are low and their enthusiasm is high.
By the day of the wedding, you have done all the planning you can do. It is important to not sweat the small stuff. Leave the day to the professionals, sit back, relax and just breathe…
From years of experience, Melody has learned how to pull off a great wedding. I love how they don’t nickel and dime you to death. They offer simple wedding package rates and include many amenities you will want. A big bonus is that they book only one event per day and the packages include an 8 hour time span. And to top it off you can bring your own caterer and alcohol. I think that Melody has done a great job of creating a beautiful wedding venue and making it as stress free for you as possible.
You can reach A&M Gardens at 817-444-3848 or visit their website.
