- 1). Research venues online. Decide if you want to get married in your local Philadelphia church or if you want to hold the ceremony and reception at the same location. Make a list of local venues that meet your requirements. For example, if you want a traditional hotel ballroom reception, consider the Park Hyatt at the Bellevue. If you're looking for a unique venue, add The Franklin Institute to your list. (See Reference 1)
- 2). Visit venues and ask questions. Schedule appointments with Philadelphia venues and try to envision your dream wedding at each place. For example, if you stop by The Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia, you should ask about the hotel's wedding packages and catering options. Check out different potential venues, like the Grand Ballroom or Pavilion. (See Reference 2)
- 3). Find a wedding coordinator. Some venues, like The Franklin Institute, offer a full-service wedding coordinator as part of your wedding package. These coordinators organize the rehearsal, set up for the ceremony and reception, and coordinate with vendors on the wedding day (See Reference 3). If your venue does not offer a wedding coordinator, consider hiring one through companies like I Do Wedding Consulting or Elegant Engagements, as suggested by www.myphiladelphiawedding.com. (See Reference 4)
- 4). Meet with vendors. Identify florists, photographers, videographers and bakeries for your big day. Check out local bridal magazines like Philadelphia Weddings for lists of local vendors, and ask your venue for suggestions. Interview vendors and when you find right ones, book them for your wedding date.
- 5). Set up hotel block stays for your guests. If you expect to have any out-of-town guests, work with nearby hotels to set aside a block of rooms available at a discounted rate, such as at the Four Seasons Hotel. This will be a convenient choice for your guests. (See Reference 5)
- 6). Find the dress. Visit bridal shops to find the perfect wedding gown. Philadelphia offers big-name designers and retailers like Nicole Miller and Priscilla of Boston as well as local bridal shops and boutiques. (See Resource 1)