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In just a short journey from the heart of Brenham, Texas, you’ll discover a hidden gem eagerly awaiting the opportunity to fulfill the dream wedding visions of every couple: Rockin’ Star Ranch . With its rustic charm and elegant touches, this picturesque venue offers an unparalleled wedding experience. Brandi and Sierra from Next Chapter Weddings were graciously invited to tour Rockin' Star Ranch by none other than the property's owner, Darrell. Driven by his passion to ensure that his brides and grooms fall in love with this space, Darrell has invested his heart and soul into this venue and the expansive 150 acres of land that it sits on.  A Weekend of Celebration At Rockin’ Star Ranch , weddings are not just events; they're cherished moments crafted into unforgettable memories. The wedding weekend package, spanning from Friday sunrise to Sunday noon, allows couples and their guests to immerse themselves fully in the enchanting atmosphere. From the moment you arrive until the final farewell, every detail is meticulously curated to exceed your expectations. A Backdrop for Versatility With its rustic elegance as the canvas, the ambiance of Rockin' Star Ranch offers a versatile setting where couples can explore various themes and styles to suit their unique vision. The natural beauty of the surroundings serves as a stunning backdrop, providing the perfect canvas for couples to express their individuality and creativity. For those inclined towards a rustic affair, the venue's inherent charm sets the stage for a celebration infused with warmth and authenticity. From wooden accents to soft candlelight, every detail can be tailored to embrace the rustic allure, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and enchanting. The beautiful cattle and horses on property can be utilized as backdrops for photographs and the ceremony itself if that suits the theme of the wedding.  On the other hand, couples with a penchant for modern glamour can elevate the ambiance with contemporary touches that complement the natural backdrop. Think sleek metallic accents, a sophisticated color scheme, and chic floral arrangements juxtaposed against the rugged beauty of the outdoors. The contrast between rustic charm and modern sophistication adds depth and intrigue to the overall aesthetic, resulting in a wedding celebration that exudes style and savoir-faire. Whether leaning into rustic charm or embracing a more modern glamor, the beauty of Rockin' Star Ranch lies in its versatility, allowing couples to curate an experience that reflects their personalities and love story. With the breathtaking nature as a backdrop, the possibilities are endless, ensuring that every moment is imbued with beauty, romance, and unforgettable memories. Unmatched Facility and Amenities  One of the highlights of Rockin’ Star Ranch is its array of facilities and amenities designed to cater to every need. The venue boasts a full kitchen for caterers to whip up culinary delights, ensuring that every palate is tantalized. Additionally, the venue uses the specific services of a bartender and security personnel, providing peace of mind and allowing guests to revel in the festivities without a worry. With a capacity of 400 guests, the venue offers ample space to accommodate gatherings of all sizes. The upstairs bridal suite is a haven of luxury, featuring a clawfoot tub with a floral wall as its backdrop, a walk-in shower, a dressing room big enough for a bridal party, and a salon setup with mirrors and chairs, providing the perfect lighting for makeup and hair preparations. The billiard room stands as a stylish and inviting space where grooms can gather with their groomsmen, enjoying a round of billiards or simply relaxing in the rustic ambiance. With its warm wooden accents and cozy atmosphere, this room sets the stage for camaraderie and laughter as the gentlemen prepare for the big day ahead. Alternatively, grooms seeking a more secluded setting can retreat to one of the charming cabins scattered throughout the property. These rustic havens offer a serene backdrop for pre-wedding preparations, allowing the groom and his party to unwind and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Out-of-Town Guests At Rockin’ Star Ranch , hospitality extends beyond the wedding festivities themselves. Recognizing the importance of accommodating out-of-town guests, the venue goes above and beyond to ensure that every attendee can fully immerse themselves in the celebration without the added stress of seeking accommodation elsewhere. With 11 cozy rooms and cabins available for rent, Rockin’ Star Ranch offers a seamless solution for lodging, providing a comfortable and convenient retreat for guests from near and far. This thoughtful provision not only enhances the overall experience for attendees but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and togetherness throughout the wedding weekend. Moreover, the option for the bride and groom to rent out these cabins as part of their wedding package presents a practical and considerate gesture. By extending this opportunity to their guests, couples can streamline the logistics of their event while also demonstrating their commitment to ensuring the comfort and enjoyment of their loved ones. From the convenience of onsite lodging to the added value of a cohesive wedding package, Rockin’ Star Ranch embodies the spirit of hospitality, making every guest feel welcomed and valued as they join in the celebration of love and union. Spectacular Outdoor Spaces The allure of Rockin’ Star Ranch extends beyond its indoor amenities, with breathtaking outdoor spaces that set the stage for romantic ceremonies and memorable receptions. Couples can choose from various ceremony options, including a pergola, ballroom, or under the shade of a majestic oak tree, each offering its own unique charm. For a truly Texan experience, couples can opt for a horseback ride around the property, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of rolling hills and sprawling pastures. The ranch's resident cattle and horses can even be moved to accommodate photography setups, ensuring that every moment is captured in stunning detail. This was possibly our most favorite part of our overnight stay. Darrell took myself and Brandi Swanson, Lead Planner and Owner of Next Chapter Weddings, on a sunset horseback ride through his ranch. This amazing service is available to all booked Brides and Grooms. How amazing is that?? Future Enhancements Rockin’ Star Ranch is constantly evolving to enhance the wedding experience for couples and their guests. With plans for a chapel underway, soon-to-be-weds can look forward to exchanging vows in a charming, intimate setting, further adding to the venue's allure. Additionally, the ranch is set to unveil a skeet shooting range, providing guests with the opportunity for outdoor adventure and entertainment amidst the tranquil surroundings. This could be a great option for the groom and groomsmen to bond before the wedding.  Secluded Serenity One of the most enticing aspects of Rockin’ Star Ranch is its idyllic setting, nestled amidst nearly 150 acres of secluded land. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, couples can escape to this rustic oasis, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the serenity of the countryside. Conclusion Nestled just a brief 15-minute drive away from the vibrant pulse of Brenham, Texas, Rockin’ Star Ranch emerges as a captivating symbol of rustic refinement, beckoning couples to embark on an unparalleled voyage of love and jubilation. Under the nurturing guidance of Darrell, whose unwavering passion and commitment infuse every corner of this magical venue, each wedding hosted within its embrace becomes a radiant testament to the enduring beauty of love, the cherished bonds of family, and the timeless allure of fleeting moments that etch themselves into the fabric of eternity. Here, amidst the tranquil embrace of nature's splendor and the rustic charm of the Texan countryside, couples find themselves enveloped in a cocoon of warmth and enchantment, where every whispered vow and tender embrace resonates with the echoes of generations past and the promise of futures yet to unfold. So, let go of the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary as you weave the tapestry of your dreams at Rockin’ Star Ranch —where the ethereal dance of love knows no boundaries, and every heartbeat is a melody in the symphony of forever. Here, amidst the timeless expanse of rolling hills and endless skies, seize the moment, embrace the rustic elegance, and etch your love story in the annals of time—for in this sacred sanctuary, dreams are not just dreams but the very essence of reality itself. Your Dream Wedding Planners Next Chapter Weddings is a premier wedding planning firm located in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas. Specializing in a range of services from coordination to full-service wedding planning, as well as bespoke design and décor solutions, we cater to discerning couples seeking unparalleled sophistication and attention to detail for their special day. Beyond catering to clients within the Houston area, we are delighted to extend our services to couples orchestrating destination weddings, intimate elopements, and charming micro weddings in scenic settings spanning the expansive Houston/Gulf of Mexico coast, as well as the enchanting regions of Austin and San Antonio. At Next Chapter Weddings , we firmly believe that every love story is a masterpiece in its own right, deserving of celebration and applause. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for crafting unforgettable moments, we raise our glasses to the uniqueness of each love story and the joyous journey that lies ahead. Cheers to love, and the next chapters to come! Blog Post by Sierra Harralson, Team Blogger at Next Chapter Weddings

Love stories often unfold in the most unexpected and delightful ways. For Reese and Joey, their journey began with a destined encounter that blossomed into a beautiful romance, culminating in a breathtaking wedding celebration filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. As they embarked on the next chapter of their lives together, Next Chapter Weddings had the honor of bringing their dream wedding to life in the heart of Houston. And let me tell you… it was absolutely perfect!! Without a doubt, Reese and Joey’s elegant Houston wedding was one of my most favorite weddings to date. Everyone was so kind, the Vendors were amazing, the food was phenomenal, and most importantly, Reese and Joey were obviously deeply in love. It doesn’t get better than that! "Reese and Joey were obviously deeply in love. It doesn’t get better than that!" The Ceremony The picturesque St. John Church at Sam Houston Park served as the perfect setting for Reese and Joey's ceremony. Nestled among towering trees and surrounded by historic charm, the chapel provided a romantic backdrop for the couple to exchange their heartfelt vows. St. John Church is a one-room, small church that was built in 1891. It has beautiful elements of the Gothic Revival style of architecture. It also holds various items that are displayed as a small museum.  The front of the chapel held two glorious floral arrangements provided by Freedom Florals of Houston, TX. With the serene melodies of HeartStrings Houston filling the air, Reese made her way down the aisle, her radiant smile illuminating the room, and Joey's eyes sparkling with love and anticipation.  The Special Details The ceremony was officiated by Reagan Reynolds, Joey’s childhood friend. It was a beautiful testament to Joey's commitment to strong friendships. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, they promised to stand by each other's side through thick and thin, embarking on a journey of love and partnership that would last a lifetime. With every heartfelt word spoken, it was clear that Reese and Joey were meant to be together, and their love filled the room with warmth and joy. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds took portraits with their families and each other while their guests made their way to Pappas Bros Steakhouse for a lavish dinner party reception. The elegant ambiance of the restaurant provided the perfect setting for an evening of celebration and revelry. Freedom Floral had gorgeous arrangements of blooms adorning every table, adding a touch of romance to the festivities. From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted with the unmistakable scent of sizzling steaks and the sound of clinking glasses, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. They were also greeted by my amazing Assistant, Danielle, who made sure all guests found their seats and received their valet comps. I transferred the chapel floral arrangements to the dinner party reception to all to the already beautiful flowers that were already set up. You can never have too many flowers, right? The Reception I met Reese and Joey at the front of the restaurant and bustled Reese’s wedding gown then made our way to the back room for their grand entrance. The couple was met with thunderous applause and cheers of joy from their loved ones. Pappas Bros Steakhouse had their own sound system built-in to the private room so it made announcements seamless. The couple opted to join their guests in a relaxed atmosphere during cocktail hour. They did not want the typical wedding day formalities; such as, a first dance, parent dances or a bouquet toss. Instead they wanted all of their guests AND vendors to eat, drink and be merry! Of course, none of the vendors drank alcohol while we were working, but we were treated so well! We were given the wine room to leave our personal items to enjoy the same 4 course meal as Reese, Joey and their wedding guests. It. Was. Amazing!! "We were given the wine room to leave our personal items to enjoy the same 4 course meal as Reese, Joey and their wedding guests. It. Was. Amazing!!" Throughout the evening, guests were treated to a culinary experience like no other, with mouthwatering dishes served with impeccable attention to detail. The dinning experience started off with a flavorful shrimp cocktail. Next: the most mouth watering salad I had ever experienced. For the main course, guests had the option of filet mignon, salmon or grilled chicken. What did all the vendors choose? Filet mignon, of course!! The wait staff brought risotto and green beans for the table to share (family style). Last, but certainly not least, all guests (and vendors) were given the choice of cheesecake, sorbet or chocolate turtle pie for dessert. I chose the chocolate turtle pie, and it was the most amazing dessert I have ever tasted in my entire life… seriously, it was so good!!! I cannot wait to go back. The food was not just dinner, but an experience that none of Reese and Joey’s guests would soon forget. We Can't Forget These Players! We can't forget that Lovelykind Beauty ensured that Reese and looked flawless with their expert hair and makeup services, while Lee Febres Photography captured every special moment with skill and artistry, creating timeless memories that Reese and Joey will cherish for years to come. But beyond the delicious food and elegant surroundings, it was the love and camaraderie shared among Reese, Joey, and their guests that truly made the evening unforgettable. Laughter echoed off the walls as guests shared stories and toasted to the happy couple, their hearts overflowing with happiness for Reese and Joey as they embarked on this new chapter of their lives together. As the night drew to a close, Reese and Joey stole a quiet moment together, reflecting on the whirlwind of emotions that had filled their wedding day. With gratitude in their hearts and love in their eyes, they knew that their wedding day had been everything they had ever dreamed of and more. I am so thankful that they both trusted us with their very special day. It was different and unique and…all so perfect. As Reese and Joey bid farewell to their guests and made their way into the night as husband and wife, they knew that their love story was just beginning. They were ready to embark on a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventure, cherishing each moment as they wrote the next chapter of their lives together. Our Team Next Chapter Weddings , is known for their expertise in planning, coordination, design, and décor services. It was an honor to have an instrumental part in bringing Reese and Joey's vision to life. With meticulous attention to detail and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Next Chapter Weddings ensured that every aspect of the day was nothing short of perfection. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, Reese and Joey had been able to relax and enjoy every moment of their special day, knowing that they were in capable hands. VENDOR TEAM Coordination Team: Next Chapter Weddings Caterer: Pappas Bros Steakhouse  Ceremony Musicians: HeartStrings Houston  Ceremony Venue: St. John Church at Sam Houston Park Florals: Freedom Floral  HAMU: LovelyKind Beauty  Officiant: Rev. Reagan Reynolds Photographer: Lee Febres Photography   Reception Venue: Pappas Bros. Steakhouse Transportation1: Judith Perkins  Transportation2: Vintage HPD Blog written by Next Chapter Weddings' Owner + Lead Wedding Planner, Brandi Swanson.

At Next Chapter Weddings , we believe that each wedding deserves the perfect venue—a space that resonates with the couple's love story and vision. Recently, I had the pleasure of touring Bayside Event Center in Galveston, TX alongside the talented wedding photographer Mandi Roach of Mandi Roach Photography . It was an experience filled with inspiration, breathtaking views, and a dash of adventure. The Venue: Bayside Event Center Nestled along the scenic shores of Galveston, the Bayside Event Center is a hidden gem for couples seeking a blend of elegance and coastal charm. As we arrived, the crisp sea breeze and panoramic views immediately captivated us. The venue's design effortlessly combines modern sophistication with the relaxed vibe of the Gulf Coast.  From the spacious event hall, perfect for hosting all your closest family and friends to the intimate outdoor ceremony space overlooking the water, Bayside offers versatility for any wedding style. Mandi and I couldn’t help but imagine the stunning photo opportunities this venue provides—whether it’s a sunset kiss by the water or a first dance under the stars. Most wedding ceremonies take place at Bayside Event Center ’s outdoor deck on the water, but you could easily move your ceremony inside, if needed. The Bridal Suite is large, and has plenty of mirrors, as well as, its own private door to the ceremony. The Groom’s Suite has Galaga, a 1980’s fixed shooter arcade video game. How cool is that!? There’s also plenty of space for the men to move around in their suite. Another fun fact about Bayside Event Center is that they have a decor closet. For a minimal fee, you can have unlimited access to the venue’s in house decor. All you have to do is select your items and the venue sets it up for you. Outside decor vendors are welcomed, but this is a nice fun fact to keep in your pocket. Charter Boat Adventure Our adventure didn’t end with the venue tour. Bayside Event Center went above and beyond by taking us on a private charter boat ride. Another fun fact: they run a charter business, Out Cast Fishing Charters, too! The Gulf waters were calm as we sailed toward Fisherman's Wharf, one of Galveston’s iconic seafood destinations. We saw several dolphins along the way- who doesn’t love dolphins!? The experience was not only a delightful break but also an opportunity to consider how such a charter could be integrated into a wedding weekend. Imagine a rehearsal dinner on the water or a post-wedding brunch cruise—endless possibilities!  An Overnight Stay To truly experience all that Bayside has to offer, Mandi and I stayed the night in their cozy second-floor accommodations. The rooms were beautifully appointed, offering the perfect blend of comfort and style. Waking up to absolute calmness and a view of the sunrise over the bay was nothing short of magical. The kitchen is huge! Which made it a breeze to try a new breakfast sandwich recipe. It’s easy to see why this would be a dream location for a wedding, with on-site accommodations making it even more convenient for couples and their guests. If you book an event at Bayside Event Center , you and your guests get dibs on the upstairs accommodations. You do not need to worry about strangers staying onsite the night of your event. The Lodge can accommodate up to 20 overnight guests, and trust me when I say the sunsets are absolutely dreamy!! "You don't need to worry about strangers staying onsite the night of your event." Whew! Collaborating with Mandi Roach Photography Working with Mandi Roach Photography throughout this experience was an absolute pleasure. Her eye for detail and ability to capture the essence of a moment made our time at Bayside even more special. Mandi’s expertise in wedding photography complements our planning services beautifully, and we were both inspired by the venue's potential. As we explored each corner of Bayside, Mandi was already envisioning the perfect shots that would make any couple’s wedding album a work of art. She especially loved the palm trees near the parking lot. I am so thankful for the opportunity to spend that one-on-one time with Mandi. From sight seeing on bean bag chairs on the back of a boat to dinner at the Hearsay on the Strand and late night, margarita fueled ping pong, I loved each and every second of getting to know Mandi. She is an absolute gem, and ah-mazing Photographer. Final Thoughts Our day at the Bayside Event Center in Galveston, TX was a wonderful reminder of why we love what we do at Next Chapter Weddings . The combination of a stunning venue, the perfect accommodations, and a unique charter experience left us excited to share this gem with our clients. If you’re considering a Galveston wedding, we can’t recommend Bayside Event Center enough. And with Mandi Roach Photography capturing every moment, your wedding will be a day you’ll cherish forever. Ready to start planning? Let’s make your next chapter unforgettable. Written by Brandi Swanson Vendors: Wedding Planner: Next Chapter Weddings Photographer: Mandi Roach Photography Venue: Bayside Event Center

Weddings can be expensive. That is just a fact. With millions of dreamy Pinterest inspo photos floating around, it can be easy to dream about a big, lavish wedding with flowers dripping off the ceiling and a million candles lighting up every corner. In no time at all a $20,000 wedding can turn into a $60,000 wedding. Or a $60,000 wedding can turn into a $100,000 wedding. Or a $100,000 wedding can turn into $150,000 wedding. You get the picture. Expenses can add up quickly. So should hiring a Wedding Planner really take priority on your wedding planning to-do list? While I can genuinely understand the temptation to skip the Professional Wedding Planner to save money, I am here to tell you- DON'T!!! Before becoming a Wedding Planner myself I worked for a popular wedding venue near my hometown. I gave tours, sent out contracts, responded to emails, and supervised MANY weddings- sometimes 4 per week. The events that had professional Wedding Planners or Coordinators were by far the more organized, peaceful and enjoyed events by not only the couples getting married, but also their wedding parties, families and guests compared to the weddings that had a friend or family member running the show- or even worse: no one at all! I promise it was like night and day. Cats and dogs. Black and White! In my position, I was required to write notes on the event at the end of the day, and my notes were almost always at least twice as long for the weddings that did not hire a Wedding Planner. It only encouraged and pushed my passion to become a Wedding Planner, because I saw the true value of the service. Hiring a Wedding Planner is an investment. Having a wedding BFF is worth it's weight in gold. Do you really want to spend a year or more planning, and your hard earned money on producing a large event to risk it all falling apart because Plan B and Plan C were not put in place by an experience Wedding Planner that is ready to tackle any challenge that they are fully prepared for because, well, experience. It all comes down to the famous say, "You don't know what you don't know." Do you really want your wedding day to become a learning experience? You're only planning to do this once, right? Don't be the guinea pig for someone's first time planning or coordinating. A good Wedding Planner will help you find the best Vendors to avoid unwanted situations. They also act quick on their feet, and swiftly find solutions to unexpected problems. With all this said, I must note that creating a budget and staying in budget is vital. I highly recommend hiring a Wedding Planner , but at a minimum, you would be doing you and your family/friends and other Vendors a huge service by at least hiring a Wedding Coordinator (a professional that executes what you have planned or your wedding) also known as a Wedding Manager . Summary: Should You Hire a Wedding Planner? Organized, Peaceful and Enjoyable Event for Couple, Wedding Party, Family, Guests and Vendors. Experience (Your event is not the guinea pig.) They help you find the Best Vendors. They are resourceful- find solutions to problems quickly. I believe in hiring a Professional Wedding Planner/Coordinator so much that if my company, Next Chapter Weddings , doesn't feel like the right fit to potential Client, I strongly encourage other amazing Wedding Planners! This year I am serving as the Secretary for the 2023 Association of Wedding Planner- Houston Chapter Board. Everyone in the group believes in community over competition and holds one another to high professional standards. For example, we each insure our businesses. So even if I am not your gal, I highly HIGHLY recommend hiring a Wedding Planner.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. Introduction: Welcome to my wedding planning blog, where I share real weddings, planning inspo and valuable insights and tips to make your special day even more memorable. In this article, we will dive into the importance of using table numbers at your wedding reception. While seemingly small, table numbers play a significant role in creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests. Let's explore why they shouldn't be overlooked and how you can enhance your wedding experience. And if you are just here to find out where I got these absolutely adorable table numbers, I'll share my little secret.... AMAZON! Click Here to get them for yourself! We used them with both paper inserts, as well as vinyl. Organizing Seating Arrangements: Table numbers are essential for organizing seating arrangements effectively. They provide structure and guidance, ensuring that guests can easily locate their assigned tables. By incorporating table numbers into your wedding reception, you can avoid confusion and prevent the chaos that might arise from a lack of direction. Your guests will appreciate the clarity and efficiency of finding their designated seats promptly. Streamlining Event Logistics: From the perspective of event logistics, table numbers are indispensable. Imagine a wedding reception without any table numbers. It would be challenging for the waitstaff to deliver meals to the correct tables, resulting in delays and potential mix-ups. With table numbers clearly displayed, the catering team can effortlessly identify the right tables, ensuring a smooth and efficient meal service. If you plan to have a Buffet Dinner, table numbers are equally important- if not more so! I have worked too many weddings that just did not want Table Numbers which resulted in me having to release tables one by one. Half way through it’s chaos. Guests get impatient and sneak their way to the line. Every single time. Having this simple system in place enables you and your guests to enjoy the reception without unnecessary interruptions or awkwardness. "Guests get impatient and sneak their way to the line. Every single time." Enhancing Guest Experience: Table numbers contribute to a positive guest experience in various ways. Firstly, they foster a sense of belonging and community. When guests locate their assigned tables easily, they can connect with fellow attendees who may be seated nearby. Table numbers also facilitate conversation and networking, as guests can refer to specific table numbers to initiate interactions. Moreover, table numbers make it easier for friends and family to reunite and share moments together, making your wedding a joyous and inclusive event. Personalization and Aesthetics: Table numbers offer an excellent opportunity for personalization and creativity. You can align them with your wedding theme, colors, or overall décor, adding an extra touch of elegance and charm to your reception. Consider incorporating unique table number designs, such as customized signage, picture frames, or themed elements that reflect your style as a couple. These small but thoughtful details can make a significant visual impact, impressing your guests and leaving a lasting impression. Conclusion: As you meticulously plan your dream wedding, remember that the little details matter. Table numbers are not just functional but also contribute to the overall success of your reception. By utilizing table numbers, you can streamline event logistics, enhance guest experience, and infuse a touch of personalization. These seemingly small elements can elevate your wedding day to new heights, ensuring that you and your guests have an unforgettable celebration filled with love, joy, and seamless organization. For any couples considering my company, Next Chapter Wedding s, for Planning or Coordination, you may be thrilled to know that we offer a Décor Service Package exclusively to our Clients that allows UNLIMITED ACCESS to all of our In-House Décor for one flat rate. Both table number designs in this blog are included in this package. Other items include modern candelabras, clear cylinders for floating or pillar candles, drapes, charger plates, votives and so much more. Essentially, our booked Clients have the opportunity to pay a flat rate for the design meeting(s), delivery, setup and takedown and get the “rentals” for free! I love this model, because it’s super simple for both us and our couples. There is no need to worry about price increases and paying another invoice when suddenly 20 more guests are coming to your wedding than you previously thought. The affordable flat rate simplifies the long list of items Brides and Grooms need to check off their wedding to-do list. I hope this article has highlighted the importance of incorporating table numbers into your wedding plans. Stay tuned for more valuable insights and tips on our blog as you navigate the wonderful world of wedding planning. Happy preparations!

Amber + Zach Amber and Zach had just finished college and were starting real life when Zach proposed on a mountain in Colorado. Amber and Zach grew up in the Greater Houston, TX area, but met and live in Colorado, so they relied a lot on Amber's Mom, Robin, to help with planning their very special downtown Houston Wedding. There are so many moving parts in planning a wedding. It can easily become overwhelming, so Robin decided she needed professional help. She reached out to my company over Facebook and we agreed to meet in person for our Initial Consultation. We met at a Panera Bread, and I will always remember the large binder Amber brought with her. She was a mom on a mission! Amber joined us over the phone, and we talked for an hour about Amber and Zach's story and wedding day vision. They booked and we brought Amber and Zach's Dream Wedding to life at at their very unique wedding venue. The Vendors Both Amber and Zach are chill people, so they wanted a down to earth wedding that reflected who they are. They had booked their venue, Station 3 , before contacting me. It was the perfect location for their intimate wedding. With its central location, most downtown hotel shuttles would travel to the venue free of charge. This was a huge bonus for Amber and Zach’s guests. Station 3 is also known as Stonewall and it was one of Houston’s very first fire stations! It was built in 1903. According to Station 3, the fire station originally operated by horse drawn wagons and steamers. The venue is one of Houston’s Historical Landmarks. Station 3 has 2 floors. We used the 1st floor to host Zach and Amber’s Ceremony. We then invited all guests to the terrace outside for Cocktail Hour where drinks and fruit/cheese was served. During this time, my team worked hard to flip the ceremony space. We needed to clear everything out for later in the night. Guests were then invited to the second floor for an intimate dinner, cake and toasts. Afterwards, guests were invited back to the 1st floor for dancing, and then back to the terrace for the Send-Off. I will admit that the up and down was a bit inconvenient, but was well worth it when considering the location's rich history. Before moving on, I must mention one of the coolest things about Station 3- they have a fireman’s pole! Guests are not allowed to use it because drinking + sliding down a 2 story pole just is not very wise; however, the venue allows the Bride and Groom the opportunity to slide down the pole prior to drinking if they would like. One of the first Vendors we booked was their Videographer, Cinematic Saviors . I first had the privilege of seeing David’s work when I worked as an event host at a local Wedding Venue. He and his team were very professional and down to earth. I knew Amber and Zach would love them and the overall vibe they would create on their wedding day. Cinematic Saviors has a way of creating absolute MAGIC with their videos. Their wedding highlights are so vivid, clean and crisp. They have talent- for sure!! When it came time to book a Photographer, Amber and Robin asked me for recommendations for a true to color photographer. I couldn’t help but recommend Pedigo Photography . Chase is so good at what he does. Photography, especially editing, seems to come so naturally to him. In fact, he even edited some photos during the dancing part of the reception to give Amber and Zach a gorgeous sneak peek before they even left their wedding!! He did all of this during dancing- on his phone- on the dance floor- with his camera around his neck so as to not miss a special moment. Chase is calm, yet silly and so fun to have around on your wedding day. FUN FACT: Chase really helped me to jump start my business in 2018. After getting certified as a Wedding Planner, he recommended me to his clients that did not have a Coordinator. I offered my services for free to one of his clients and he gave me their full gallery to help me start my social media. Probably one of my most favorite parts of Amber and Zach’s planning adventure was when Robin and I went to several BBQ restaurants to taste test the best BBQ for their Texas wedding. Every single “joint” was amazing, but we agreed that Dickey’s BBQ in League City was the best. They served us the tastiest brisket I had ever had and the cheesiest macaroni that has ever existed. I have not worked with them since, due to most of my Clients not wanting to serve BBQ at their weddings, but I highly recommend them for both event catering and dine-in eating. Apparently they have locations in 42 US states! We had several meetings with Leslie, The English Florist, prior to the wedding. She was incredibly sweet, and had many photos of past work to show Robin. Amber joined us for one facetime call, but ultimately let me and her mom decide. She did know that she wanted to have lavender florals, and a romantic overall feel. All of Leslie’s work could be described as romantic, so this task was made very easy for us all. Ultimately, we gave Leslie the floral budget and listened to her recommendations. We ended up selecting roses and lush garlands. Mulberry Basket is a small rental company in Angleton, TX. The owner, Connie Bennett, is one of the sweetest ladies you will ever meet. She has always worked hard, and has even bent over backwards to help my Clients get what they want. Mulberry Basket provided the linens (tablecloths and napkins), as well as the votives and water glasses. Bavarian Cakery hit it out of the park with an amazing cake and cupcakes. There really is not much to say other than they arrived on time, set everything up flawlessly and the sweets tasted heavenly! Would I recommend Bavarian Cakery again? Absolutely!! Amber and Zach also had their DJ, DarkerSide DJs , booked prior to meeting us. They provided dj/music, mics and uplighting. They kept the party going all night. It was so nice to watch Amber and Zach enjoying their special day without a care in the world. Wedding Day Vendors RECAP Venue: Station 3 Planner: Next Chapter Weddings Videography: Cinematic Saviors Photographer: Pedigo Photography Caterer: Dickey's BBQ Florist: The English Florist Decor Rentals: Mulberry Basket, LLC Cake: Bavarian Cakery DJ: DarkerSide DJ's Wedding Day Details The day started off site since the venue does not have enough space for the wedding party to get ready for the day. (Note: There is a small room/closet for the Bride to put on her gown, but definitely not room to sit down with your Bridal Party and Hair + Makeup Team to get you all dolled up.) Amber and Zach had different hotel rooms where they spent the morning sipping mimosas and enjoying time with their closest friends. All Vendors spent the morning setting up Station 3 for the couple’s arrival for their First Look. Zach is a crier, and he did not want to risk crying nonstop at the Ceremony after seeing his lovely Bride for the first time, so we quickly decided that a First Look would be beneficial for the couple. It took place upstairs, along a window and brick wall. Amber came out in her modest gown and glided across the room with so much grace and a sweet smile glued to her face. She tapped Zach’s shoulder to cue him to turn around and he fell in love all over again. I guess I don’t know this for a fact, but the look on his face would confirm my suspicions. Their Photographer captured it all and the day with nonstop smiles started! After the First Look, they continued taking Wedding Party photos until guests started to arrive. The aisle and altar were lined with candles. I had the Wedding Party lined up upstairs and released them according to their spacing for the Ceremony Processional. Due to the design up the staircase, I was able to see a little more than half of the aisle. Amber was a gorgeous Bride and had a unique and flawless stride throughout the day. As she walked down the stairs, her peace and excitement radiated. Honestly, it has been one of my most favorite Processionals! Since the space was smaller and quiet, I did not want to risk distracting anyone by coming down the stairs myself, so I never saw if Zach actually cried, but I heard that he did in a sweet and beautiful way. What more can a girl ask for? After directing guests to Cocktail Hour, we began a quick flip of the room. The venue removed the chairs, the Florist repurposed some of her florals and my team put away the candles, cleaned the space, checked on guests and provided the Bride and Groom with water. Dinner was delicious and breezed on by. The Maid of Honor and Best Man gave Toasts, and we quickly moved to the cake. Amber and Zach just wanted to dance, so we intentionally moved past all the upstairs formalities as quickly as we could. We made our way downstairs once more, then Amber and Zach had their First Dance. Finally, the party began! And this crew DANCED!!! Everyone had a blast and were moving nonstop at this unique wedding venue. It was such a fun night. Amber + Zach moved on to the Next Chapter.