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Stress-Free Wedding Planning & Design | Houston, Austin, San Antonio + Beyond!
Real Weddings, Expert Tips & the Heart Behind Next Chapter Weddings.
A blend of design inspiration, expert guidance, and the real-life moments that shaped Next Chapter Weddings.


5 Things I’m Most Proud of in My Wedding Planning Journey
Being a wedding planner is more than timelines and checklists... It’s a journey full of lessons, wins, and heart. In this post, I’m opening up about the 5 things I’m most proud of, from creating intentional weddings to building a supportive community. Whether you’re a fellow planner, a vendor, or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, these reflections offer a real look at the purpose and pride that fuel this work.

Brandi Swanson
6 days ago3 min read
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8 Tips for the Night Before Your Wedding
Tomorrow’s the day—here’s how to keep tonight peaceful and stress-free. What to do to feel calm, present, and ready for your big day Okay, deep breath, you’re getting married tomorrow . Whether that feels totally surreal or just wildly exciting (or both), the night before your wedding is a special kind of energy. It’s like Christmas Eve, but with more waterproof mascara. And while it might be tempting to triple-check your seating chart or reply to every “Can’t wait for tomorr
Klen Ibale
Oct 104 min read
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Balancing Family, Passion, and Business Without Losing Yourself
Being a business owner, a mom, and a human all at once? It’s a lot. In this post, Brandi shares real talk and practical tips for finding balance, setting boundaries, and building a life that actually works—for your family and your dreams.

Brandi Swanson
Oct 33 min read
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Planning the Perfect Wedding Send-Off
A wedding send-off is more than just a pretty photo. It’s the emotional finale that turns your celebration into a full-circle experience. From petal tosses to glow stick exits, this guide shares creative wedding send-off ideas, tips for planning a smooth and stylish wedding exit, and ways to make your final moment feel just as meaningful as your first kiss.
Klen Ibale
Sep 263 min read
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How to Trust Your Own Expertise When Starting Your Wedding Planning Business
In this post, Brandi of Next Chapter Weddings shares how she learned to trust her own expertise when starting her wedding planning business. From reflecting on past experience to celebrating small wins, she offers practical ways new planners can build confidence, embrace authenticity, and create a business they truly believe in.

Brandi Swanson
Sep 193 min read
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5 Lessons I’ve Learned About Leadership Through Healing
Leadership isn’t just about strategy or structure, it’s about heart. In this honest reflection, Brandi shares how healing shaped her into the kind of leader who leads with empathy, presence, and trust. From burnout to breakthroughs, these lessons will resonate with anyone growing through what they’re going through.

Brandi Swanson
Aug 223 min read
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Crafting Your Perfect Day: Why Your Vision Matters with Next Chapter Weddings
Your vision isn’t just a starting point, it’s the heart of the plan. See how Next Chapter Weddings turns your dream day into a stress-free reality.
Klen Ibale
Aug 153 min read
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A Bride's Guide to a Stress-Free Wedding Day
Your wedding day should be filled with joy, not stress. These 5 practical, heart-centered tips will help you stay calm, present, and fully in the moment—from your morning coffee to your last dance. Let go of the pressure to control every detail and discover what really makes a stress-free bride glow.
Klen Ibale
Jul 43 min read
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How to Plan the Best Engagement Party: A Step-by-Step Guide for Brides
Planning your first big celebration as a bride-to-be? This fun and practical step-by-step guide breaks down everything you need to throw the perfect engagement party—from choosing the right theme and setting the vibe, to hosting stress-free and making it personal to you and your fiancé.
Klen Ibale
Jun 206 min read
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Writing Your Own Wedding Vows: A Personalized Guide to Expressing Your Love
Writing your own wedding vows doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tips, you can craft heartfelt, meaningful promises that reflect your relationship. This guide walks you through how to write wedding vows that feel real, personal, and true to you. No pressure, just love.
Klen Ibale
May 236 min read
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How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue
Finding the perfect wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you'll make. From guest count to budget, this guide will help you choose a space that fits your vision and sets the tone for an unforgettable day.
Klen Ibale
May 94 min read
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Jasmine + TK’s American Wedding at Addison Woods
Jasmine & TK’s American wedding at Addison Woods in Houston was a stunning sequel to their love story. Just days after their Nigerian celebration, they embraced modern elegance with heartfelt traditions, vibrant florals, and joyful dance battles. This unforgettable day perfectly blended culture, romance, and celebration.
Klen Ibale
Apr 257 min read
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How to Have a Perfect Wedding
The perfect wedding isn’t about flawless details, but it’s about the love you’re celebrating. This blog shares how to let go of pressure and focus on meaningful moments, connection, and a celebration that feels truly you.

Brandi Swanson
Jan 243 min read
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Rachel + Anthony | McGovern Centennial Gardens in Houston, TX
As a passionate Wedding Planner, I am bursting with excitement to think back on this special event. If I am being completely honest,

Brandi Swanson
Aug 21, 20234 min read
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Should You Hire a Wedding Planner?
Weddings can be expensive. That is just a fact. With millions of dreamy Pinterest inspo photos floating around, it can be easy to dream...

Brandi Swanson
Jun 9, 20233 min read
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