Hi all! I wanted to let you know that I'm taking a little break from recording new weekly episodes because I really misjudged how much time it takes on top of running Sunhorse Weddings and, most importantly, editing my upcoming book, "Big Day DIY, How to plan your own wedding like a pro". I apologize for the pause, but all the past episodes and resources are still available at bigdaydiy.com. 

I'm also looking for beta testers for my book, which is packed with checklists, logistics, and my secret for creating a pass-off folder . You can email me at [email protected] if you're interested . 

Thank you so much for your support; I appreciate you all and I'll be back in your ears soon, hopefully with some book news or an update from Isla Mujeres, Mexico. In the meantime, Happy Planning!

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Hey there, love birds! Welcome back to Big Day DIY. Today we are diving into how to make the most of your destination wedding site visit. Whether you're still choosing your wedding location or have already booked your dream venue, this trip is key! I'll guide you on why seeing your destination in person is so important.

I’ll cover how to plan your budget-friendly site visit travel and accommodations, like looking for hotel site visit specials or checking out Airbnb. We'll figure out the best site visit duration for you, whether you're comparing venues or have already made your choices.

Trust me, a wedding venue site visit is crucial – way beyond those online photos! Experience the vibe, imagine your ceremony and reception, and see what your guests will experience in the local area. I'll tell you who to bring on your wedding planning trip and why getting a local wedding planner involved early is a game-changer.

I'll share my expert tips on when to schedule your site visit, ideally during your wedding season to check the weather. Try to see another wedding at your venue to understand how things run. I'll also guide you on booking tours and tastings in advance to get the attention you deserve. Consider squeezing in vendor trials like hair and makeup too.

During your venue site visit, really focus on wedding accommodations for your guests and ask about group rates. Walk through all your event spaces, and always have that rain plan discussion. Take tons of photos and videos of everything! Chat with the venue manager about crucial stuff like vendor policies, guest transportation, and setup/teardown. And of course, the food and drink tasting – snap pics and take notes!

If you're working with a wedding planner, make the most of meeting them in person to ensure you're on the same page. Bring your Pinterest wedding inspiration and talk about costs upfront.

Finally, we'll tackle signing the wedding contract and hotel contract. I'll highlight what to look for, like names, dates, cancellation info, payments, what’s included, outside vendor rules, and setup/teardown details. We'll also discuss your hotel room block options, potential costs, and whether a hotel promo code might be a better fit. Always double-check that those online hotel rates include taxes!

This episode will give you the confidence to plan your destination wedding site visit like a pro, avoid surprises, and create the wedding you've always dreamed of. 

I have also put a checklist in the Google Drive if you'd like to print out this info to take with you on your site visits. On www.bigdaydiy.com add your name and email to gain access to our Resource Folder in Google Drive.

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Welcome to Big Day DIY! In this episode, Tiffany Lanier guides you through the crucial steps of planning your dream destination wedding. 

Learn how to select the perfect wedding venue by considering capacity, full-service versus DIY options, weather backup plans, and budget. 

Discover how to find accommodations for your guests that fit their needs and your vision, whether it's a resort attached to your venue or nearby hotels and rental houses. 

Get practical tips on negotiating group rates, understanding venue rules, and avoiding hidden fees .... Plus, a handy checklist to ensure you've covered all the essential details before making any commitments. 

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

In this "Big Day DIY" podcast episode Tiffany Lanier guides couples through the exciting yet sometimes overwhelming process of choosing the perfect destination for their wedding. She reminds listeners that it's not just about picking a pretty backdrop, but about crafting an unforgettable experience that their guests will actually be able to attend and enjoy.

Here’s what the episode covers:

• Dream Destination Brainstorm: Tiffany encourages couples to let their imaginations run wild, envisioning beach ceremonies, cozy mountain lodges, or even chic city rooftops. She suggests digging into vacation memories, childhood haunts, and those oh-so-tempting bucket-list locales.
• Guest List Reality Check: Tiffany brings everyone back down to earth with a gentle nudge, emphasizing the importance of guest logistics. She stresses that a dream wedding in Santorini might not be so dreamy if half the guest list can't afford the flights or handle the travel time.
  • Transportation Made Easy: Tiffany advises couples to consider whether guests can drive or if they'll need to navigate the world of flights. She even shares her love for Google Flights and gives a tutorial to find the perfect affordable quick to get to destinations.
  • Budget-Friendly Fun: She highlights the importance of affordable accommodations, transportation, and even food and beverage costs. Tiffany encourages couples to think about what their guests would consider a reasonable hotel price, using themselves as an example.
  • Guest Excitement Factor: Tiffany reminds couples to consider whether their guests will actually want to go to the chosen destination. Will there be fun activities, and what's the weather like?.
• Narrowing It Down: Tiffany's goal is to help couples narrow their options to the top two or three destinations for further investigation.

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Are you considering a destination wedding but feeling unsure if it’s the right choice for you and your guests? 🌴💍 Imagine saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, overlooking a breathtaking mountaintop, or inside a charming European villa. Sounds dreamy, right? But before you book those flights and send out your Save the Dates, let’s talk about the realities of planning a wedding away from home.

In this episode of Big Day DIY, wedding planner and destination wedding expert Tiffany Lanier breaks down everything you need to consider before committing to a wedding abroad or out of town. She’ll help you weigh the pros and cons, uncover hidden costs, and determine whether a destination wedding is truly the best fit for your dream day.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ What defines a destination wedding? (Hint: It’s not just about getting married on a beach!)

✅ Pros of a destination wedding: Stunning venues, a built-in vacation for your guests, cost savings, and an unforgettable experience.

✅ Cons of a destination wedding: Guest travel expenses, limited vendor options, legal challenges, and the stress of planning from afar.

✅ How much does a destination wedding really cost? Understand the financial expectations of both the couple and guests.

✅ Who typically pays for what? Flight tickets, hotel rooms, wedding packages, excursions, and extra events—know what you should expect to cover.

✅ 6 Pro Tips for a smooth and successful destination wedding: Including how to choose the right location, negotiate group rates, plan additional events, and simplify legal requirements.

✅ What to ask yourself before deciding: Are you comfortable with some guests declining? Can your budget handle extra accommodations? Are you ready to work with a local wedding planner or resort coordinator?

Real Talk: Is a Destination Wedding Right for You?

A destination wedding is perfect for couples who love intimate, experience-based celebrations and want to create a multi-day event for their guests. However, if you have a large, close-knit family who would struggle with travel, or if you’re a Type-A planner who needs full control over every detail, you may want to think twice. Tiffany gives honest, expert insight to help you decide whether you should go all-in on a destination wedding or stick to a hometown celebration.

Bonus Content: How a Destination Wedding Works with SunHorse Weddings

Tiffany also shares insider knowledge on planning a stress-free destination wedding in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Learn how SunHorse Weddings creates a seamless all-inclusive wedding experience by handling vendor coordination, hotel accommodations, guest experiences, and wedding day logistics—so you can actually enjoy your wedding!

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Dreaming of the perfect wedding but unsure if you need a professional planner? In this episode of the Big Day DIY Podcast, host Tiffany Lanier—wedding planner extraordinaire—breaks down the key differences between a full-service planner, a day-of coordinator, and a venue-provided coordinator. From deciding your venue’s role to managing DIY logistics, Tiffany dives into real-life scenarios and practical advice to help you figure out what kind of support (if any) you might need. Spoiler alert: You can DIY your wedding, but you’ll need some serious organization and maybe a helper or two. This episode is packed with insights to help you get started stress-free and confident. Tune in and let’s get planning!

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Telling your parents you’re engaged should be a moment of joy, but let’s be real—it often comes with a side of tricky conversations. From financial contributions to guest lists and boundaries, this episode of the Big Day DIY Podcast has you covered. Tiffany Lanier shares actionable steps to prepare for these chats with confidence and grace, ensuring you stay true to your wedding vision while fostering collaboration. Learn how to navigate sensitive topics like ‘parental guest invites,’ money talks, and even family dynamics. 

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

Planning a wedding is exciting, but deciding who does what and tackling potential challenges can feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Big Day DIY Podcast, host Tiffany Lanier guides you and your partner through the essential steps of assigning roles in the wedding planning process.

We will discuss:

•How to decide each person’s level of involvement in planning.

•Questions to ask your partner to set clear expectations.

•Strategies for avoiding common planning pitfalls, like financial conflicts, family dynamics, and time constraints.

•Discussion points for tackling issues like blended families, busy schedules, and unexpected drama.

By setting boundaries, communicating openly, and planning ahead, you can create a smooth and enjoyable wedding planning experience together. Don’t miss this episode packed with practical advice, downloadable worksheets, and insights to help you stay organized and stress-free!

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

This podcast episode walks listeners through critical pre-wedding planning discussions. The focus is on four key areas: Vision, Location, Budget, and Guest List. Tiffany emphasizes that open communication and compromise between partners are essential to create a solid foundation for the wedding planning journey.

Before researching vendors or making any decisions, couples should figure out what each of them wants in each of the Big 4 categories. A worksheet is provided to help with this. Listeners can download the full PDF of the Big 4 worksheet when they sign up to get on the mailing list on the website www.bigdaydiy.com. The episode encourages couples to consider:

Vision:

• Do you want a small/intimate gathering or a large celebration?
• Will it be a daytime or evening event?
• Indoors or outdoors?
• Extravagant or simple, themed, or with specific colors?
• What about the food? This includes catering style, cake versus dessert options, and what kind of bar.

Location:

• Destination Wedding (requiring travel for most guests) or local/at-home wedding?
• What type of venue are you thinking of for the ceremony and reception?

Budget:

• How much can each of you realistically contribute from savings and potential earnings?
• Will any family members be contributing financially, and if so, how much from each person?
• Are you willing to use loans or credit cards for wedding expenses?
• Don't forget the average cost per guest when estimating the overall budget!

Guest List:

• Make your own individual lists, noting who are "mandatory" attendees and who are "optional."
• Figure out your minimum and maximum guest count by combining your lists.
• Remember that a destination wedding usually means fewer guests.

The main point of the episode is that having honest conversations about these topics early on will help you avoid major conflicts later on in the planning process. If couples compromise and effectively communicate their visions, they can ensure their wedding day aligns with their shared goals and resources.

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130

In this episode of Big Day DIY, Tiffany Lanier shares the essential conversations every couple needs to have before diving into wedding planning—or even before saying “Yes!” to the proposal. Weddings are temporary, but marriage is forever, and laying the groundwork for a strong partnership starts with asking the right questions.

From managing finances and setting family boundaries to navigating health decisions and understanding each other’s conflict styles, Tiffany explores the “Big Wedded Life Questions” that build a solid foundation for lifelong love. With over 20 years of experience and 600 weddings planned, Tiffany shares real-life insights and practical advice to help couples align their dreams and expectations.

Tune in to learn:

•Why these conversations are a must before planning your wedding.

•The most critical topics to discuss with your partner (finances, kids, family, and more).

•How to approach these questions with openness, honesty, and zero judgment.

Don’t miss the free resource mentioned in the episode! Download the full list of “Big Wedded Life Questions,” when signing up for the newsletter at www.bigdaydiy.com to start these crucial conversations today.

Send us a text

Connect with Tiffany:

Website; www.BigDayDIY.com

Schedule a one-on-one consultation call with Tiffany: https://calendly.com/sunhorsetiffany/wedding_consultation

Do you have an issue or topic that you would like Tiffany to answer on an Ask Me Anything episode, record a message: https://www.speakpipe.com/BigDayDIY

Be a beta tester for the wedding planning workbook: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/80cf7e89a6

Sign-up and get access to our Wedding Resourses Google Drive: https://bigdaydiy.kit.com/20a91c0130