Welcome to
Emerson Fields
wedding planning and venues!
We’re so excited that you’re researching
If you think you’ll be saying “Yes” soon, you’re in the right place!
Welcome to the start of your wedding journey! We know it’s exciting, maybe a little overwhelming too. But don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place. This might be your first time planning a wedding, but it's our 300th, and we’re here to share what we’ve learned along the way. With 16 years of experience and hundreds of weddings under our belt, we're ready to help you navigate the ins and outs of planning the day you've always dreamed of.
At Emerson Fields, we're all about making your planning process smoother and more enjoyable. From avoiding common pitfalls to sharing pro tips, we’re committed to giving you the inside scoop. Whether you’re just starting to explore venues or thinking about the overall vibe you want, we’ve got the resources and insights to guide you. Plus, our goal is to help you stay true to your unique style without getting caught up in the things that don’t really matter.
Begin With The Big 3
Start by sitting down with your fiancé to determine your top three non-negotiables for the big day. Identifying these early on will help you stay focused and on budget. Whether it's capturing stunning photos, serving a fun signature cocktail, or finding the perfect gown, these are the must-haves that you'll prioritize above all else.
If parents or anyone else is contributing to the wedding budget, have a conversation with them about these priorities. It’s important they understand that these three items are essential to your wedding day experience. By focusing on what truly matters, you'll find it easier to let go of smaller, less important details.
For the couple pictured above, their “Big 3” went like this:
A venue that would allow them to host all of the wedding weekend festivities and was easily accessible and included many of the big elements, such as tables and chairs.
For her: the gown! She had her heart set on a simple designer gown with drop sleeves, and draping, and one she felt comfortable in. (and maybe an abundance of spring flowers!)
For him: a full weekend of fun and having a wedding planner to help alleviate stress for the bride. (and a short golf game!)
Pay Special Attention To:
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01
The Big 3
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02
The Budget
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03
The Guest Count
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04
The Photography
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BUDGET
Setting your wedding budget should be one of your first priorities as an engaged couple.
Most of our couples budget around $20K to $35K for their wedding day.
For couples planning a full weekend of festivities, budgets start around $30K.
Beyond the venue, catering and bar services often make up a significant portion of your budget.
At Emerson Fields, we give you the freedom to choose what fits your style and finances, whether it’s a casual taco truck or an elegant 3-course prime rib dinner.
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GUEST COUNT
Choosing your venue is the cornerstone of your wedding planning, as it influences nearly every other decision you’ll make.
Before you start touring, it’s wise to do a little homework to ensure you’re only visiting spaces that fit your budget and have availability on your preferred dates.
Before booking tours, estimate your guest list. Having a rough count will help you determine if a venue can comfortably accommodate your celebration.
You can plan on about 75% of your invited guests attending. The closer you live to the venue, the higher that percentage is likely to be.
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PHOTOGRAPHY
Don’t gamble on your wedding photographer. This is one area where quality truly matters, and it’s worth investing in someone with expertise and experience.
Your wedding photos are more than just images; they’re the memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
A talented photographer will not only capture the big moments but also the candid, emotional ones that make your day unique.
There are no "do-overs" on your wedding day. This is an area of utmost importance so do not cut corners here.
“There was never a moment that I felt like you had forgotten about us. I loved getting the check-in emails and just general emails about the bar, or guest list, or anything that you might not think about. I always felt like I could ask a question at any time, and there would be a response within a few hours. I couldn’t be more appreciative of a vendor who cares about us and not just checking in the weekend before.”
-Kylie, recent EF bride
“The communication!”
"Do yourself a favor and book them now! Emerson Fields really makes the whole wedding a breeze - I don’t know any other venue that puts in as much time truly getting to know their clients and wants their best day to go as smooth as possible!"
Abbey, recent bride from Hannibal, MO
Your wedding day deserves your time & attention because it reflects your love story!
The heart of your wedding day is the moment you say "I do" and begin your journey together as a married couple. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember that the true essence of your day is the love you share.
Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the memories you create will last for decades. Balancing your budget with your vision is important, but never lose sight of what makes your love special.
Embrace the following tips, and explore each one to help you craft a day that’s as timeless as your love.
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Taking engagement photos is a key part of the wedding planning journey.
It’s not just about the photos; it’s about building a connection with your photographer, getting comfortable in front of the camera, and setting the stage for a seamless wedding day experience.
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Now that you're designing the day you've always envisioned and assembling a team to bring it to life, it's time for a Pinterest clean-up.
Clear out those old pins that no longer match your current vision, and focus on ideas that truly reflect the wedding you're planning now.
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Organize your board into categories like Bouquet, Hair & Makeup, Gown, Decor Ideas, Reception Ideas, Ceremony Ideas, and For the Groom.
Aim for 7-10 key inspiration photos per category to keep things manageable.
Remember, trends are fun, but authenticity matters more. Most Pinterest images are styled shoots, not real weddings—so make sure your plans reflect your genuine style.
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Hiring a wedding planner or coordinator early ensures they’re fully involved in your planning, guiding key decisions and keeping everything on track.
Connecting with your planner or coordinator in person is essential to ensure they understand your vision.
Having a professional handle the details means your loved ones can enjoy the day without the stress of managing behind-the-scenes logistics.
A great planner or coordinator will make your wedding day seamless, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love while they handle the rest.
when you’re ready to get started
20 Minute Vision & Budget Chat
Let’s get to know each other - discuss your wedding vision and chat about the budget
Are you ready to learn more about Emerson Fields? This is a getting-to-know-you conversation, and as trusted experts in the wedding industry, we’re here to help!
Find out why our couples’ dollars go further and our weddings are more streamlined, organized, and enjoyable! For instance, when you share your favorite foods on this call, we can give you an idea of what our couples normally spend on similar-priced catering options!
The next step is to click the button below to book a call with our team at your earliest convenience so you can stop wondering about the Emerson Fields experience and start getting excited about your beautiful wedding day!
Follow us on social media and Pinterest for more inspiration - links below!
Keep an eye out for more email tips! We hope that as you learn more about us, you'll see why couples fall in love with Emerson Fields and choose to celebrate their big day here. Let's get started soon on making your dream wedding a reality!