What’s Right for Your LDS Wedding?

Some Latter-day Saint couples dream of a ballroom reception with a stunning cake and string quartet. Others picture homemade food, laughter with loved ones, and twinkle lights strung across the cultural hall.

Both are beautiful. Both can be fun. The key is choosing what feels right for you.

Should You Hire a Wedding Planner?

If you're wondering whether to hire a professional wedding planner—or rely on the talents of trusted family and friends—you're not alone.

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Are you short on time but big on dreams?

• Are you feeling overwhelmed by the many moving parts of planning a temple sealing plus a reception?

• Do you want someone to guide you every step of the way, or would you rather keep control and delegate within your own circle?

There’s no right or wrong answer—just what’s best for you, your budget, and your peace of mind.
To help you decide, I’ve created a full guide: Wedding Coordinator

Hiring Professionals for Your LDS Reception: Pros and Cons

Some couples choose to bring in the pros—photographers, caterers, decorators, DJs. Others take the do-it-yourself route, with cousins capturing candid moments and Relief Society sisters refilling the punch bowl.

Let’s look at why:

The Perks of Hiring a Professional:

♥ Experience: Professionals have done this dozens (sometimes hundreds!) of times. They know what works—and what to avoid.

♥ Quality: From perfectly piped wedding cakes to magazine-worthy floral arches, the results speak for themselves.

♥ Less Stress: You’ve got enough to think about. A great vendor will take care of the details so you can focus on the sacredness of your day.

♥ Freedom for Your Loved Ones: Your mom shouldn’t be frosting cupcakes when she could be fixing your veil and wiping away happy tears.

Why Some Couples Choose the DIY Route:

♥ Budget: Let’s be real—professional services can be expensive. Doing it yourself can save a lot.

♥ Flexibility: Not every vendor offers what you want—or in your price range.

♥ Availability: Especially for short engagements, many pros are already booked.

♥ Simplicity: Sometimes a low-key backyard reception with heartfelt touches is just what the Spirit ordered.

How to Choose Wedding Reception Services

As you pray and plan, consider these three things:

• Budget – What are you comfortable spending?

• Style – Is your vision formal, rustic, elegant, or playful?

• Priorities – What matters most to you? The food? The photos? The music?

It’s okay to mix and match. Hire a caterer, but make your own centerpieces. Book a photographer, but let your uncle emcee. Choose what fits your day.

Final Thought

However you plan your reception—whether it’s a fully staffed ballroom event or a heartfelt DIY celebration at your stake center—remember this:

It’s not about impressing people.
It’s about beginning your eternal journey surrounded by love.

So breathe. Pray. And plan with joy.