Weddings in the Woods
Tips, inspiration, and expert advice for planning your dream wedding in Wisconsin.
How to Handle Family Drama on Your Wedding Day (and Still Enjoy Every Moment)
Worried about how family tension might affect your wedding day? You’re not alone—and you’re not overreacting. Family dynamics can get complicated, especially when emotions are already running high. This blog breaks down how to handle family drama before it starts, what to do in the moment if things get tense, and how to protect your peace throughout the day. With thoughtful planning, firm boundaries, and the right support team in place (hint: a great coordinator helps more than you think), you can still have the joyful, calm, beautiful wedding you’ve been dreaming of—family drama and all.
The Timeline Myth: Why Everything Takes Longer Than You Think on a Wedding Day
Think you can squeeze everything into a 12-hour wedding day? Think again. From hair and makeup to the last dance, nearly every part of your wedding day takes longer than you think—and the Timeline Myth can leave couples feeling rushed, stressed, and behind schedule. In this blog, I’m breaking down why delays happen, what couples tend to underestimate most, and how a well-crafted, buffer-filled timeline (plus a good coordinator!) can save your sanity and your day.
The Real Cost of a Wedding Coordinator in Wisconsin—And Why It’s Worth It
Wedding coordinators in Wisconsin often charge anywhere from $1,200 to over $2,500 for day-of services—but at Northwoods Event Services, you don’t have to break the bank to have a stress-free wedding. My 8-hour coordination package starts at just $1,500, and my 10-hour package is only $1,900. I may be more affordable than many, but I don't skimp on the quality or heart behind the service. You still get meticulous planning, timeline management, vendor coordination, and a calm presence on your big day—without the premium price tag.
10 Common Wedding Day Mistakes (and How a Coordinator Helps You Avoid Them)
You’ve spent months planning your dream day—so the last thing you want is to be stuck dealing with missing vendors, timeline chaos, or family drama when you should be sipping mimosas and soaking up the moment. In this post, we're uncovering 10 of the most common wedding day mistakes couples make (and probably don’t even see coming)—from forgotten setup details to emotional burnout—and how having a wedding coordinator by your side can prevent every single one. Whether you're local to Wisconsin or planning from afar, this guide will show you exactly how a coordinator turns potential stress into smooth sailing.
Behind the Scenes: What a Wedding Coordinator Really Does on Your Big Day
Ever wondered what a wedding coordinator actually does on your big day? (Spoiler: it’s so much more than holding a clipboard.) From timeline management and vendor wrangling to sewing buttons and calming nerves, we’re the quiet force behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. If you want to be fully present on your wedding day without managing the chaos—this one’s for you.
Meet Your Coordinator: A Little About Me
Planning your wedding in Wisconsin and wondering who’s going to keep your day running smoothly, stress-free, and totally you? I’m Erika—owner of Northwoods Event Services, a wedding coordination business based in La Crosse and serving couples across Wisconsin, including the Fox Cities, Milwaukee, Waukesha, and beyond. I specialize in making your wedding day feel effortless, personal, and joyful!
Top Luxury Wedding Venues Near Lake Country, WI: Elegant Locations for Your Dream Wedding
Looking for luxurious wedding venues near Lake Country, WI? From the stunning lakeside views at Golden Mast Inn to the elegant ballrooms of Delafield Hotel, these top venues offer the perfect setting for your dream wedding. With beautiful outdoor spaces, spacious reception areas, and top-tier amenities, you’re sure to find the ideal location for your special day. As the owner of Northwoods Event Services, I can help you plan every detail and ensure your wedding is flawless. Explore these upscale venues near Lake Country for a wedding experience you’ll never forget!
30 Days to Your Wedding: Your Ultimate Countdown Guide for Brides in Wisconsin & Eastern Minnesota
With only 30 days left until your wedding, it's time to focus on finalizing all the details to ensure your big day runs smoothly. Whether you're planning a rustic barn wedding in Wisconsin or a beautiful lakeside celebration in Eastern Minnesota, staying organized is key to a stress-free experience.
This ultimate countdown guide will help you manage the last month of wedding preparations, from confirming vendors and finalizing guest lists to picking up your wedding attire and reviewing your timeline. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you’re perfectly prepared for your dream wedding day!
Planning Your Summer Wedding: The Best Time to Book Your Venue in Wisconsin
Planning a summer wedding in Wisconsin? Secure your dream venue early to ensure you get the perfect location for your big day. With peak wedding season running from June to August, venues fill up quickly. Start your venue search 12-18 months in advance to lock in your ideal space. Whether you're looking for outdoor beauty or exceptional service, booking early ensures your summer wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of. Let Northwoods Event Services help you navigate the planning process and ensure every detail is flawless.
Top Wedding Venues Near La Crosse, WI
Discover the best wedding venues near La Crosse, WI, with stunning locations like Chapters on the Horizon, Fox Hollow Golf Course, Burlap and Bells, Hatchery Riverside, and La Crosse Country Club. Whether you're looking for a rustic charm, riverside elegance, or a classic golf course setting, these venues offer unique options to make your wedding day unforgettable. Let Northwoods Event Services guide you in selecting the perfect venue and creating your dream wedding!
How to Handle Pre-Wedding Nerves and Enjoy Your Big Day
Pre-wedding nerves are totally normal, but don’t let them steal the joy of your big day! We get it—there’s a lot of anticipation, and you might feel anxious as you prepare for your wedding. But with a few simple tips, you can manage those nerves and truly enjoy every moment. From taking quiet time for yourself to trusting your team and keeping perspective on the big picture, we’ve got strategies to help you stay calm, collected, and ready to walk down the aisle. Let’s make sure you enjoy your big day from start to finish!
How to Include Your Pets in Your Wedding
Pets are an important part of the family, and including them in your wedding day can add a personal and memorable touch. Whether it's having your furry friend walk down the aisle or capturing adorable moments in photos, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate your pet into the celebration. In this blog, we share helpful tips on how to ensure your pet is part of your wedding day, from assigning a dedicated pet attendant to making sure your venue is pet-friendly. Get ready for a stress-free, pet-inclusive celebration with these simple yet effective ideas!
The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Day Timelines: From Hair & Makeup to the Last Dance
A smooth wedding day starts with a well-organized timeline! From getting your hair and makeup done to the last dance of the night, every moment needs a little attention to ensure things run effortlessly. In this guide, we’ll break down how to structure your wedding day, including key milestones like pre-ceremony photos, cocktail hour, and the reception’s special moments. With our expert tips, you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable day, knowing every detail is taken care of.
How to Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony to Reflect Your Love Story
Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your big day, and it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect your unique love story. Whether you’re writing your own vows, including meaningful traditions, or choosing a special reading, every detail can be tailored to represent who you are as a couple. In this post, we’ll walk you through creative ways to personalize your ceremony and make it truly yours—creating a meaningful moment that both you and your guests will treasure forever.
Navigating Family Dynamics: How to Handle Wedding Guest Lists and Expectations
Planning your wedding is exciting, but managing family dynamics and guest list expectations can be one of the trickiest parts. You want to honor your loved ones while also keeping the day true to your vision - we get it. In this blog, we’ll share practical strategies for setting boundaries, making tough guest list decisions, and communicating clearly with family—so everyone feels respected, without the stress!
Top Tips for the Busy Bride-to-Be: How to Stay Sane While Wedding Planning
Wedding planning can be overwhelming, but with a few smart strategies, you can stay on track. Start early, even with just 15-20 minutes a day, and delegate tasks to friends and family. Consider hiring a wedding coordinator to handle logistics and use planning tools like the Northwoods workbook to stay organized.
Stay Organized with Our Comprehensive Client Workbook: Your Ultimate Wedding Planning Companion
Struggling to stay on top of wedding planning? Our detailed Client Workbook offers questionnaires, checklists, client resources, and centralized assistance to keep you organized and stress-free.
How to Overcome Wedding Planning Anxiety: A Guide for the Anxious Bride
Feeling anxious about your wedding day? This guide for the anxious bride offers tips on managing stress and making your big day as stress-free as possible.
The Secret to a Stress-Free Last-Minute Wedding: How a Coordinator Can Help When You’ve Already Started Planning
Planning your wedding for a while but feeling overwhelmed as the big day approaches? Learn how a professional wedding coordinator can help smooth out the remaining details and reduce stress.
How to Celebrate Valentine's Day When You're Engaged and Wedding Planning
Valentine's Day is even more special when you're engaged! Discover how to celebrate your love while still getting the support you need during your wedding planning journey.