The Procrastinator never wins the race | Charlottesville Virginia Wedding Photographer Sarah Houston Photography

I'm a procrastinator on things too...so I can totally relate to the "last minute" bookings that always seem to make their way into my inbox. My first two years those last minute inquiries were a Godsend, but now with limited availability and brides booking their venue and photographer a year in advance...those last minute brides are missing out, which really makes me bummed! (especially if it's Kate Spade themed or Blush + Gold!!) I've also talked to other vendors who agree...the procrastinator is missing out more and more.

The venue should be the FIRST thing you book on your list of "to-do's" venue's can book a year (sometimes two!) in advance and the longer you wait-ESPECIALLY for popular dates they go QUICK. So if you have a dream place in mind you'd better secure it fast before someone else does! : Remember the Plaza in Bride Wars? It booked up years in advance...so when you are venue shopping-think "The Plaza" and kick your butt into gear!

Second book your photographer!!! I book 1-2 years in advance, YES 1-2 YEARS I'm not tooting my own horn, I am just blessed that brides come to me directly after booking their venue. Good photography comes at a cost and is a hot commodity. Every bride wants gorgeous photographs to remember such a momentous occasion & you should too. So as soon as your venue is chosen & deposit is paid, be on the hunt for that perfect match to capture it all. Ask questions and don't be afraid to go on a coffee date (or skype date!) I meet all my couples before the wedding either over a pre-engagement date or for their engagements. It ensures we are a perfect match and that they enjoy my sweet southern personality!

Caterer, Wedding Cake, Invites, florist and DJ are the next ones on the list to book, Florists actually go pretty fast too so you might want to book them the same time you book your photographer! 

You never want to scramble last minute trying to scrape up someone decent to do something, because I can tell you the ones you get last minute may not always give you what your looking for...

It can be overwhelming and feel like a race...but I can assure you, the sooner the better and you'll be happier with the outcome if you start the race early!

Need help with vendor referrals? Check out my amazing list of wonderful creatives here.

Remember...don't procrastinate when it comes to your fairytale ending...because no one wants a pumpkin carriage with mice at midnight.