All photos by Chelsea Renay Photography

Paige and Brett’s Greensboro wedding day was filled with moments of pure magic at Rev Mill Events. The Courtyard was the perfect ceremony choice with summer in full bloom, feeling like it was straight out of a fairy tale. The guests created an atmosphere of sheer excitement as the couple exchanged their heartfelt vows. There was an undeniable love in the air!

From the moment their wedding day began, the bride and groom were surrounded by friends and family who were elated to be part of this beautiful day. You could truly feel the excitement and expectations for the festivities ahead. Paige and her bridesmaids took full advantage of The Suite as they got ready together, sharing laughter, tears and heartfelt moments.

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CEREMONY

“Looking out the window at the "first look" with Paige & Brett and then the 2nd "first look" that Paige had with her dad (Ed) and brother (Eddie). It was precious and I'm so very glad that Paige wanted to add Eddie in the mix. After the "first looks", Paige and Brett both seemed so happy and calm.........there was just a feeling that all was well with the world. From the words of the FOB, Paige was so calm it helped me to be calm.” - Mother of the Bride

Have we mentioned how much we love first looks? We absolutely loved that Paige and Brett incorporated this tradition into their wedding day. Those quiet moments during a first look are so sweet before meeting again at the altar. It can help calm nerves and you may choose to exchange vows intimately before the ceremony as a special memory between just the two of you.

As the Groom and groomsmen took their place in The Courtyard, the Bride and her bridesmaids began their walk down the courtyard stone walkway. The sun sparkled upon the newlyweds as they said “I do”.

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COCKTAIL HOUR

As guests flowed from The Courtyard into The Colonnade, they were greeted with a delightful cocktail hour in our lower level. As guests mixed and mingled, they enjoyed delicious appetizers including Mushroom Caps, Beef Bruschetta and Southwestern Potato Skins and sipped on the signature drink, a Moscow Mule. The air was filled with the gentle hum of laughter and clinking of glasses as guests savored every moment.

“Paige let me know what she did not want in a wedding venue (barns, ugly ballroom carpet, country club types....) and then gave me several places to preview before she and Brett could get to Greensboro. She also liked the "Industrial look". I set up the meeting with Ben and then brought 2 very dear friends to the meeting. It was the very 1st venue we visited and all 3 of us immediately knew that it was Paige!” - Mother of the Bride

The Reception

The Colonnade came to life as guests ascended into the upper venue space that was perfectly prepared with elegant table designs for the reception. As the evening progressed from toasts to dinner, guests enjoyed heart warming speeches and toasts on love before enjoying a delicious meal prepared by our in house catering including Beef Tenderloin Medallions, Blackened Tilapia Filets, Wild Mushroom Risotto and Roasted Veggies.

Wedding Details

Date: September 9, 2023

Guest Count: 161

Colors: Black & White with Light Pink & Gold accents

Photographer: Chelsea Renay Photography

Planner/Coordinator: A Touch of Southern - “Britni - Was our Wedding Planner and was so wonderful to work with. She took care of the little details, especially during the last few months of crunch time. She was also so personable and I feel like she was perfect for Paige and became our friend.” - Mother of the Bride

Florals: Blossom Betty’s - “Jen was FABULOUS! She went above and beyond on the wedding day. She had been great to work with on each occasion leading up to the wedding (she provided and delivered a beautiful bouquet and I had the utmost confidence in her and her beautiful flowers. Jen was present, offered ideas, great advise and wisdom needed for an outdoor wedding. We could not have asked for anything more - she was professional yet personal. I would 100% be proud to use Jen and her company and give them the BEST recommendation!” - Mother of the Bride

MUA/Hair: Symmetry Bridal NC

Entertainment: Emerald Empire Band

Rentals: In-House / Party Makers Event Rental

Catering: Pepper Moon Catering

Desserts: The Busy Mom Cake Shop - “Sarah was great and we even had the opportunity to have a "tasting" while at Rev Mill for our last "walk through". The wedding cake was not only beautiful but actually tasted great. I received so many compliments on the cake and the other goodies. Our guests could not believe that the cake (and my favorite - the icing ) was so good! The bride requested cake pops and the groom wanted red velvet mini cream pies..........we also had mini oatmeal cream pies that were great.” - Mother of the Bride

Bridal Attire: Ava Laurenne Bride

“it just didn't last long enough” - Mother of the Bride

SEND OFF

As the evening drew to a close and the last dance came to an end, guests were treated to a spectacular sparkler send-off. It was a moment of pure joy, etching another celebration into our memories as Paige and Brett exited their wedding day to drive off into the next chapter of their love story.

Congratulations to Paige and Brett as they enjoy their newlywed bliss. We were honored to celebrate your wedding day with you!

If you’re recently engaged and looking to create your dream worthy wedding day, we know that Revolution Mill Events could be the perfect fit. Contact us today and let’s start turning your dreams into reality!

All photos by Chelsea Renay Photography

Full of unique character and industrial elegance, The Colonnade is a Greensboro, NC wedding venue accommodating up to 200 guests nestled within historical Revolution Mill and serviced by Pepper Moon Catering. Guests will be wowed by the gorgeous private courtyard and inviting indoor space with original maple floors, enormous windows, exposed brick, custom iron work and high ceilings!

All photos by Thin Spaces Productions

Kathryn & Clint’s wedding day at Revolution Mill Events was the perfect day for friends and family to share and celebrate the beginning of their next chapter in their love story. Incorporating a cohesive design with little hints of their personalities sprinkled throughout, they created the perfect June wedding day in Greensboro, North Carolina

“Our wedding day was beautiful! It was a perfect, sunny day filled with family, friends, and laughter. We had so much fun getting to spend time with all of our favorite people in one place. From getting ready together in the morning, to dancing the night away, it was so heartwarming to see everyone from both sides of the family come together. The venue was stunning and all of the vendors were spot on. We couldn't have asked for a better day!” - BRIDE

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The thoughtfulness behind every aspect of their wedding shone through from the touches of the textures to the loving acknowledgments to family traditions placed throughout the day. The design elements were light, welcoming and allowed guests to experience more of the couple's personalities and story throughout the day.

“The most unique part of our wedding was our cookie table filled with homemade treats! My family is originally from Pennsylvania and it is a tradition to have a cookie table at weddings for guests to bring homemade cookies to contribute. It is so popular that there are actually Italian Wedding Cookies specifically for this occasion! My mom, grandmothers, and aunts all contributed to the wedding cookie table. We had table top labels that showed a picture of me and the family member that made the cookies on display for our guests as they grazed. We had doggy bags for people to take some cookies with them as their wedding favor and needless to say, it was a huge hit!” - BRIDE

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The Jordan’s took DIY by storm when planning their wedding day. Kathryn fell in love with the floral design of her wedding dress and decided to incorporate it into other aspects of their wedding design. Their custom signage, invitations and stationery was all cohesively planned and designed with the dress in mind!

 “The biggest piece of advice we would give couples planning their wedding is: don't be afraid to stray from tradition or what's trending to make the day your own. This day is to celebrate YOU, so do what you feel is right. We are so happy that we put our own personal spin on things from the timeline, to layouts, and key parts of the day that we wanted to make sure happened.” - BRIDE

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The Ceremony

The Courtyard was prepped perfectly for the event down to every last special detail. On this beautiful June day, the North Carolina sun lit the courtyard and created the ideal conditions for their outdoor ceremony. Their floral arrangements were unique and gorgeously placed for framing the couple as they said their “I do’s”. As everyone entered the space, guests' excitement filled the air with expectation of the event to come. Their color palette was absolutely stunning against The Courtyard’s greenery and historic brick background.

“It was very important to us to have some outdoor space because we were having a spring wedding and wanted our guests to be able to enjoy the weather. Once we toured the venue, we fell in love. We loved that the event space was completely private, something other venues we toured were lacking, and that there were so many options. We had multiple options for how to use the indoor and outdoor spaces which is something we were really looking for because we wanted to make the wedding personal. There were even multiple options for the rehearsal dinner spaces! We were able to confidently make decisions based on what we felt was best because we were able to weigh our options on how to best use the space.” - BRIDE

The Reception

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers in The Courtyard, the couples favorite space at Rev Mill Events, before moving into The Colonnade for the Reception. The decor choices were beautifully intertwined with the colors and theme of the wedding design. The floral arrangements continued to catch your eye as they were elegantly placed on each table. The Reception was full of love, celebration, and admiration from family and friends gathered to celebrate the newlyweds!

The Menu

Cocktail Hour: 

• Toasted French bread rounds served with Bruschetta, Artichoke Aioli or Hummus

• Pulled Pork Tacos 

• Mini Sun-dried Tomato Biscuit with homemade pimento cheese

Plated Dinner:

• Tossed Garden Salad 

• Entree Choice of Grilled Chicken Breast with Parmesan cream sauce, Herb-Crusted Pork Loin with pommery mustard sauce OR Zucchini Boat - stuffed with chickpeas and Mediterranean vegetables and herbs

• Served with our Signature Smashed Potatoes, Baked Mac and Cheese and Grilled Vegetables  

What was your favorite dish from Pepper Moon Catering? “Grilled Chicken with Parmesan Cream Sauce or the Pimento Cheese Biscuits or the Pulled Pork Tacos... We can't choose just one.” - BRIDE

Wedding Details

Date: June 3, 2023

Guest Count: 110

Colors: Purples, Blushes, Whites, Gold & Black 

Photographer: Thin Spaces Productions - “provided beautiful photos of our day! We loved working with Anna Claire and her team for both the wedding and engagement shoot. She was able to capture the vibe we were looking for in our photos, and captured so many memories for us! She and her team also worked seamlessly with the other vendors even though she had never worked with them before. We can not rave about Thin Spaces enough!”

Coordinator/Planner: A Touch Of Southern Events - “A Touch of Southern wedding planners were amazing! Shout out to Brittni! She and her team were really able to bring our vision to life without causing us any stress. They were able to calmly guide the events of the day and make sure we were taken care of. If anything went wrong, we were not aware of it, which is exactly what you want on your wedding day!”

Florals: Something Borrowed Blooms - “provided the stunning wedding florals! This company allows you to rent silk florals for weddings (and other events) and I was so pleasantly surprised by the quality of their flowers. As a type A bride, I didn't like the unknown of what my flowers would look like the day of, so I opted for a more predictable, affordable, and sustainable option. These silk flowers were gorgeous, photographed beautifully and gave the exact look I was going for. Something Borrowed Blooms thought of everything so that you don't have to and their customer service is amazing!”

Videographer: Honeydew Films - “captured stunning video footage for us! We were able to get a highlight film, plus edited clips of special moments throughout the day such as the first dances, speeches, and the full ceremony. It was so important for us to have the full video of the ceremony from start to finish, and their product was beautiful! The team was nice to work with and they got along great with the other vendors!” 

Hair & Makeup: I Do Style - “provided hair and makeup services for all of the women in the bridal party plus moms and grandmas! The team was so flexible and fun to work with the morning of the wedding. They really listened to each person's vision for their wedding look and executed flawlessly!”

DJ: 336 DJ’s - “provided the entertainment all day and did a fantastic job! They were very thorough in making sure we had exactly what we wanted in our wedding playlist. We were able to create it or give them creative freedom which we loved. They did an amazing job with the sound systems and setting the tone for the wedding throughout the day!” 

Transportation: A Formal Affair

Cake: Publix

Dress: Carolina Bridal World of the Triad 

Catering: Pepper Moon Catering 

About Rev Mill Events: 

“Working with Revolution Mill Events was so stress-free and fun! They really help you make the most of this once in a lifetime experience by having events leading up to the wedding day. We always looked forward to going to their events so we could take time envisioning our wedding day in the space and trying all of the amazing food. It was also a chance to ask questions or meet different vendors, which we appreciated. The team was so nice and we loved working with them! Aimee and Ben were so great to work with because they had the answer to any question we could think of! They are so knowledgeable, helpful, and personable and it was a joy working with them. “ - BRIDE

Conclusion

From the stunning florals to the immaculate DIY designs, Kathryn & Clint’s wedding day was one to remember! We loved the way they highlighted the various spaces in The Colonnade with their rustic yet elegant touches and the pastels with the gold accents!

If you are starting the process of looking for your venue in the Greensboro, NC area don’t hesitate to contact us today to book a tour and see why Rev Mill Events is the perfect venue for you to celebrate your love story!

All photos by Thin Spaces Productions

Full of unique character and industrial elegance, The Colonnade is a Greensboro, NC wedding venue accommodating up to 200 guests nestled within historical Revolution Mill and serviced by Pepper Moon Catering. Guests will be wowed by the gorgeous private courtyard and inviting indoor space with original maple floors, enormous windows, exposed brick, custom iron work and high ceilings!

Brian Anthony Photography

Liz Grogan Photography

Are you nearing the final stages of wedding planning and wondering how to handle tipping your wedding vendors? You are not alone! We are consistently asked for suggestions by our couples to help them handle this tricky subject. Read on to learn the latest tipping trends we are seeing in North Carolina in 2023!

• While tipping is customary for some vendors, deciding to tip is a personal choice and you should never feel as though it is an obligation. Tipping is considered a kind and generous gesture to those who have assisted in making your wedding dreams come true! 

• Gratuity should always go to the lead person to disburse to their team (ie. manager, band leader, head planner, etc.) 

• Helpful Tip: Use envelopes that you fill prior to your wedding day. Designate which envelopes are for which vendor. On the day of your wedding give the envelopes to your wedding coordinator or someone you trust to deliver the envelopes to the proper vendors. 

• When initially budgeting for your wedding make room for tips to ensure you don’t go over budget right before the big day. If you are unable to fit gratuity into your budget, consider sending a small personalized gift or thank you note to show appreciation. 
  

Vendor Categories

If you choose to extend gratuities to vendors as a “thank you!” for providing exceptional service, consider these suggestions to help you plan in advance.

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER/WEDDING PLANNER/COORDINATOR/FLORIST

Suggested amount: Tips are generally not expected by these vendors. But to show your appreciation of their hard work and dedication to ensuring every detail is taken care of, tipping is always a generous way to show that you enjoyed their services or special care. 5-10% of their fee or a personal thank you gift is recommended. You could also tip $25 - 50+ per assistant, depending on their level of involvement.

When to tip: At the end of their service

Catering wait staff/chefs/Bartenders

Be sure to check your contract to see if a gratuity has already been added to avoid double-tipping or forgetting to give staff a tip, since it’s customary to tip catering staff.

Keep in mind a “service charge” or “operational charge” is generally NOT considered a gratuity. This should be spelled out in your contract, but ask your catering manager if you’re not sure.

Suggested amount: 15%-20% of the food and beverage bill is customary OR $25-$75 per staff member.

When to tip: It’s best to give this tip (in cash that can be easily divided up) to the catering contact to distribute accordingly to servers, chefs and bartenders. It can be done at the end of the event or following dinner.

Hillary Muelleck Photography

Venue Host / Event Manager / Banquet Manager

/ Maitre d’

Suggested amount: It’s recommended to give $50 - $150 for excellent service.

When to tip: At the end of the event

Venue & Catering Manager / Venue Coordinator

Suggested amount: It isn’t expected, but if they went above and beyond helping make your day come true, a $100-$200 tip or personal thank you gift is a nice gesture to show your appreciation.

When to tip: At the end of the event

Megan Allred Photography

Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist

Suggested amount: A tip of 15%-25% of the fee is generally customary for beauty vendors, just as you would tip in a salon.

When to tip: After services are complete

LIVE Musicians/Band

Suggested amount: If a tip is not already included in your contract, then tipping $20 - $50 per entertainer is customary. Note - make sure to include musicians from your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception if you are using multiple musicians/bands.

When to tip: At the end of their service

DJ

Suggested amount: $50 - $100 is a nice gesture if they did a great job, especially if they went above and beyond your expectations.

When to tip: At the end of their service

Liz Grogan Photography

Officiants

Suggested amount: For religious officiants, you can donate to their place of worship or give the officiant a gift card for their personal use. For non-religious officiants a 10-25% tip is customary.

When to tip: At the rehearsal or before the ceremony

Delivery/setup STAFF

Suggested amount: $5 - $20 for each person, depending on how much work they are providing.

When to tip: At the completion of their duties

SECURITY

Suggested amount: We would suggest $20 - $50 per security personnel

When to tip: At the end of the event

TRANSPORTATION DRIVERS

Suggested amount: Ensure your contract doesn’t already include gratuity. If tipping is not included in your contact then we suggest $50 - $100 cash per driver. You could also add a thoughtful gift of snacks and drinks for your driver to enjoy if they are contracted for long hours.

When to tip: After services are complete

VALET/COAT CHECK

Suggested amount: $.50-$2 per guest.

When to tip: After services are complete

Other Ways To Show Appreciation

• Give a thoughtful gift - treat basket, flowers, mug and coffee, bottle of wine, sweets, houseplant, or a gift card

• Post a positive review

• Write a thank you note

• Tag vendors on social media

• Word of mouth recommendations

Conclusion

Deciding to give tips and the amount is entirely up to you! We hope these tipping guidelines are a helpful starting point as you think about how to show appreciation to your vendor team. No matter what you decide, a glowing online review of your experience or offering to give a reference means the world to vendors!!

If you are planning your big day and would like to know more about having your wedding at Rev Mill Events, Contact Us today! We would love to chat with you!

Hillary Muelleck Photography

Full of unique character and industrial elegance, The Colonnade is a Greensboro, NC wedding venue accommodating up to 200 guests nestled within historical Revolution Mill and serviced by Pepper Moon Catering. Guests will be wowed by the gorgeous private courtyard and inviting indoor space with original maple floors, enormous windows, exposed brick, custom iron work and high ceilings!

Photo by Becca Kate Photography

We have all experienced the effects of COVID-19 this year in different ways. There is no doubt that the impact on engaged couples has been significant! We, here at Revolution Mill Events, have been on the roller coaster alongside our clients as many of them made the tough decision to postpone their wedding to 2021.

This year has certainly kept us on our toes — we've learned a lot! We've been working hard to understand the evolving state and local orders and what it means for Greensboro, NC weddings. We continue to update our event procedures to create a safer environment for our clients, guests and employees.

As we look with optimism towards 2021, we are excited to work with all our couples who postponed as well as those who initially planned their date for 2021! While it's hard to prepare for the unknown, we know there are a few things you can do to help your wedding vision come to life. Please consider the below steps to put into action for planning your 2021 wedding during COVID.

TAKE ACTION

Is it us, or does it seem like getting things complete on the to-do list is a little harder than it used to be? We're hearing from our couples that with everything going on they haven't felt much like planning. We encourage you to take action! Ruth Soukup says, "Action is the antidote to fear. Taking focused action is the only way to get where you want to go!" Start with getting a to-do list prioritized and tackle the most critical tasks one step at a time. With each task checked off your to-do list, you’ll feel better that you’re getting things done. Don’t forget to enlist the help of your fiance, family and wedding party to prevent overwhelm.

FINISH BOOKING YOUR VENDORS

Photo by Elizabeth Larson Photography

Due to so many postponed weddings plus all the couples already planning for 2021, vendors are now being booked up quicker than ever. We recommend reaching out to desired vendors to check their availability as soon as possible. We're happy to provide our couples with recommendations of high-quality local vendors.

We have always recommended hiring a wedding planner/coordinator as one of the most valuable investments you can make in your big day. Since COVID, we have seen this role become more vital than ever as a resource to listen to your concerns, manage changes, understand restrictions, communicate with vendors, review contracts and create contingency plans.

CREATE A MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE WITH SPECIAL DETAILS

Think about ways to create a meaningful experience on your wedding day - these are the moments you and your guests will remember. We have experienced some wonderful moments amidst some smaller, more intimate weddings this year! One that stands out is an intimate wedding in our courtyard with close family members who then gathered around our fountain to watch the newlywed's sweet first dance.

The special details you assemble are what tells your unique love story! Gorgeous florals, specialty rentals, custom menus, accent lighting, and personalized favors create the ambiance for a memorable event.

Photo by Kayli LaFon Photography

Photo by Vesic Photography

NEXT STEPS FOR YOUR WEDDING AT THE COLONNADE

Plan to meet with us approximately 3 months out from your wedding date to start the planning process. Together, we’ll take into account the latest safety recommendations to design your custom layout, menu and service plans. There are so many ways to get creative with food and beverage service! COVID has pushed us to provide more creative ways to serve you and your guests. We have had an opportunity to provide more plated meals, attended buffets/stations, individually plated appetizers, and attended beverage stations this year. We can't wait to help you create the elements of your special day!

Photo by Ellie McKinney Photography

Photo by Ellie McKinney Photography

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

Help keep things in perspective by taking time to appreciate all the goodness around you. While the adjustments you've had to make may be frustrating right now and evoke all kinds of emotions, remember what matters most -- at the end of the day you get to marry your best friend!

Looking for more? Take a moment to view Here Comes the Guide’s gratitude list:
https://www.herecomestheguide.com/wedding-ideas/a-wedding-planning-gratitude-list

Photo by Behind the Lens Photography

Are you looking to book a 2021 Greensboro, NC wedding? We can't wait to chat with you about the sweet celebration! Contact us to start the conversation.

When asking our wedding couples what their top three wedding priorities are, food and drink is almost always near the top of the list. The reception fare is often what guests remember most about the wedding – whether it was tasty, plentiful, served at the right temperature and at the right time. Catering typically accounts for the largest portion of most couples' budgets, so it only makes sense they want to serve something that shines!

Together with Pepper Moon Catering, we’re ready to take on the challenge to impress your guests. Pepper Moon Catering has been offering premier, full service catering for all occasions in Greensboro, NC for over 20 years. They have been providing exclusive catering and management for Revolution Mill Events since 2015.

When planning your reception, you’ll get to work closely with Jaime, our Venue & Catering Manager. She draws upon over 15 years of event experience and has a keen eye for detail, love of logistics and providing personalized customer service. You will enjoy the seamless wedding planning experience that Revolution Mill Events provides!

Photo by Jodi Gray Photography

While a dinner buffet continues to be a popular selection, read on for some fun food trends to consider incorporating into your wedding day. Whether you’re planning to have a casual gathering, fancy affair, or something in-between, don’t be afraid to mix things up with the latest trends, as long as the elements stay true to you ~ the happy couple. We love getting to know you, finding out your favorite foods, and working with you to create a custom menu that is charming, memorable, and deliciously satisfying!

Get started by viewing our new wedding menus which have been specially curated for weddings. —> Revolution Mill Events Menus

Welcome Your Guests with a Cocktail

What better way to say, “Welcome! It’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy your evening!” than to offer a drink as your guests walk in? We are obsessed with this idea recently used by one of our couples at their reception. Guests were wowed with this beautiful (and functional!) welcome display. We worked with the couple to create a signature blueberry, lavender pink lemonade, which was uniquely displayed with their escort cards. This display also makes a stunning champagne wall.

Photos by Aura Marzouk Photography

Late Night Snacks

Grilled Cheese at a wedding? Yes! We love putting a playful twist on southern comfort foods. Imagine ending a night of tearing up the dance floor with a gourmet grilled cheese made with blue cheese and bacon or goat cheese and peppadew peppers. Other ideas to satisfy your guest’s late night munchies: a soft pretzel bar, freshly popped popcorn, mac & cheese bites or burger sliders.

Interactive Food Stations

Provide a memorable opportunity for your guests to interact with their food by building their own plate or watching a Pepper Moon chef create their personal dish.

Hors d’oeuvres are spread out into multiple stations which is ideal for reducing lines and offering variety. Your guests will remember the fun interactive displays (think Mashed Potato Bar, Polenta Bar, Taco Station) and chefs preparing their dishes (think Jar-B-Q, Fired Ahi Tuna, Gyros, Fajitas with fresh Guacamole, Jap Che)!

Interactive food stations allow your guests to customize their meal to fit their preferences, which will have your guests raving about the food at your wedding.

Cocktail Hour Hors D'oeuvres

Cocktail hour is the perfect time to let your personality shine through the food!

Passed hors d'oeuvres — This is an elegant way to provide bite sized hors d'oeuvres to your guests during cocktail hour. Servers will tray pass the goodies as your guests mix and mingle throughout the space. Pepper Moon Catering offers many options including the popular Pumpkin Curry Empanada, Sundried Tomato Biscuits with housemade Pimento Cheese, Caprese Skewers, Marinara Meatball in a Spaghetti Nest and Bacon wrapped Sweet Potato.

Displayed hors d'oeuvres — Wow your guests with displays of mouth watering hors d'oeuvres such as Imported and Domestic Cheeses, a trio of Dips, Fresh Fruit with brandied custard dipping sauce or Grilled Vegetables with sundried tomato vinaigrette. Combine several items for a plentiful grazing table!

Formal Plated Meals

We’re seeing a return to the traditional plated dinner service. This is a great option if you are going for a more formal and elegant guest experience. Typically guests are seated at an assigned table and the meal is served directly to the table by the wait staff. It is often a three course meal that includes a salad, entree, and dessert.

Everyone at the table will get their food at the same time; and you can spread out toasts and/or incorporate dances during the courses to keep your guests engaged while they enjoy their dinner.

Include a Local Favorite

We are lucky to have some amazing food businesses central to North Carolina like Krispy Kreme, Mt Olive Pickles, Cheerwine, Texas Pete, Snyder’s-Lance and Dewey’s Bakery. Try adding a bit of of flair to your day and include something local in your wedding menu. We could incorporate Krispy Kreme donuts as a late night snack or offering them as favors to your guests! We also have a fun Krispy Kreme slider bar where guests can choose their toppings for a decadent dessert.

Photos by Elizabeth Larson Photography

Revolution Mill Events will work closely with you to present your guests an exceptional culinary experience that will reflect your vision for your wedding. We have put together sample menus to get you started, though we really love to custom-design each menu to fit exactly what you desire! From the simple to the elaborate, Pepper Moon Catering is one of the Triad’s most trusted catering partners. We can’t wait to get your personalized menu started!

View our new wedding menus —> Revolution Mill Events Menus

Photo by Krista Stevens Photography

Let’s be honest, planning a wedding can feel pretty overwhelming. Let us guess, you’ve been studying Pinterest at all hours of the day and night, and researching wedding planning blogs like crazy? Sound about right? However, you can never fully anticipate what your wedding day will be like until it’s actually here. It’s okay. Take a deep breath. We are here to make planning a wedding feel like a breeze. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of top tips from past couples and newlyweds. They’ve walked down the aisle, said their “I Do’s” and have fully enjoyed their receptions. And now they’re ready to pass on their knowledge to you.

PLAN AHEAD & CHOOSE YOUR VENDORS CAREFULLY

• “Start early! (or as early as you can) - It really helps to have plenty of time, especially if you're getting married at a popular time of year. Things book up fast!” - Hillary

• “Make sure you pick a great venue, caterer, and photographer. Those are so important! Also make sure to take time to actually enjoy the planning process. Remember it doesn't all have to be done at once!” - Leah

VISUALIZE YOUR PERFECT WEDDING DAY

• “Start with trying to form your own vision. Pinterest/Etsy are great but can overwhelm you!” - Sequoia

• “Your wedding is about you and your significant other, no one else. It’s hard to remember that sometimes when trying to accommodate everyone’s needs. Even if things don’t go as planned on the big day, in the end you are married and that’s is all that matters! Enjoy every minute of it, it goes by quick!” – Allyssa, Bride

• “Don’t worry about the guests, it’s YOUR wedding, just the two of you. If they love you enough they will make it to your wedding. Don’t plan stuff around them.” - Missy

Photo by Danielle Flake Photography

ALLOW TIME FOR YOU & DELEGATE

• “One piece of advice I would give to couples planning their wedding is to allow enough time off work before the day of the wedding to make sure everything is together and all the boxes are checked off. I work night shift as a nurse and I worked up until the Thursday night before my Sunday wedding and I felt so out of the loop on my vendors and all our decorations and I felt rushed to get everything together and make sure I had everything I needed.” - Paige

• “Delegate and take it a little at a time. Planning can be very overwhelming, but if you have reliable vendors and help from family/friends-it will go smoothly!” - Claire

Photo by Logan Jarrard Photography

consider your guests

• “Think about your guests! A lot of the decisions we made had to do with the flow and timing of the event. I pulled on prior experiences of weddings I was a guest at and thought about what choices were made in consideration of the guests and what weren't. Everyone will tell you that your day is all about you, and to a degree it is. But you wouldn't be where you are without the love and support of every person that will be at your wedding. They have given their time and resources to support you! So think of them when you are planning your event.” - Elizabeth

ENJOY IT

• “Just know something isn't going to go as planned. Be ready to roll with it once the big day gets here, and don't sweat the small stuff.” - Matt

• “Just enjoy every part! As much as I felt like a crazy woman running around getting everything done, it truly was such a fun time in our lives and I would do it all over again tomorrow! At the end of the day, forget about small details most people will overlook and just take in the fact you get to marry your best friend!” - Lilly

• “Everything will work out in the end. I spent a lot of time stressing out over the smallest things, and in reality.. on wedding day it is all going to work out- your friends and family are all going to pull together that day to make sure your dream wedding happens. Nothing will ever go just perfectly, so don't be super disappointed if something goes off the track! Keep a good attitude about it and ENJOY YOUR day. People will always have their own opinion, but it is your day and between the two of you. As long as you and your SO are happy and having a blast, I promise everyone else will be too. The stress is silly so don't worry too much. Also, take time to enjoy every single moment and soak it in!” - Courtney

Photo by Tory Bass Photography

Aesthetic Images

Today we’re going to tackle the tricky subject of tipping wedding vendors. This is a topic we are asked about quite often as couples reach the final stages of planning. Here are some suggestions:

• While it is customary to tip some vendors, deciding to tip is a personal choice and shouldn’t feel like an obligation. It’s a kind and generous gesture to those who go above and beyond for your special day.

• Consider tipping vendors (whether they are owners of their company or employees) that are hands on at your wedding.

• The gratuity should go to the lead person (i.e. catering supervisor, band leader, etc.) to be disbursed to their team.

• Organize gratuity in cash envelopes prior to the wedding. Give these cash envelopes to your wedding coordinator or another responsible person to distribute according to your wishes.

• Allot room in your budget for gratuities. If your budget doesn’t allow cash tips, consider a small personal gift or a thank you note. Writing a glowing online review or offering to be a reference means a lot!
  

Vendor Categories

If you choose to extend gratuities to vendors as a “thank you!” for providing exceptional service, consider these suggestions to help you plan in advance.

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER/WEDDING PLANNER/COORDINATOR/FLORIST

Suggested amount: Tips are generally not expected by these vendors, but are a great way to appreciate their hard work and attention to detail.
5-10% of fee or a personal gift.
$25-50+ per assistant, depending on their level of involvement.
When to tip: At the end of their service

Catering wait staff/chefs/Bartenders

Be sure to check your contract to see if a gratuity has already been added to avoid double-tipping or forgetting to give staff a tip, since it’s customary.

Keep in mind a “service charge” or “operational charge” is generally NOT considered a gratuity. This should be spelled out in your contract, but ask your catering manager if you’re not sure.

Suggested amount: 15-20% of food and beverage total or $20-$50 per staff member

When to tip: It’s best to give this tip (in cash that can be easily divided up) to the catering supervisor to distribute accordingly to servers, chefs and bartenders. It can be done at the end of the event or following dinner.

event manager/BANQUET MANAGER

Suggested amount: $50-$150
When to tip: At the end of the event

catering manager/Food & Beverage Director

Suggested amount: $50-150 or a personal gift
When to tip: At the end of the event

Jennifer Strange Photography

Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist

Suggested amount: This is one area tips are expected. Provide 15-20% of fee, just as you would for a normal hair appointment.
When to tip: After services are complete

LIVE Musicians/Band

Suggested amount: Sometimes this is included in your fee, so check your contract. $20-$50 per entertainer.
When to tip: At the end of the event

DJ

Suggested amount: $50-$100 is a nice gesture if they did a great job, especially if they had to move heavy equipment during the event.
When to tip: At the end of the event
 

Ashley Latham Photography

Officiants

Suggested amount: While it isn’t common to tip religious officiants, if you want to thank them you can make a donation to their organization or house of worship. A $75 to $100 donation would be appropriate. It’s also a nice gesture to invite them to stay as a guest for dinner.
When to tip: At the rehearsal or before
the ceremony

Delivery/setup STAFF

Suggested amount: $5-$20 for each person, depending on how much labor they provide.
When to tip: At the completion of delivery

SECURITY

Suggested amount: $20-$50 per person
When to tip: At the end of the event

TRANSPORTATION DRIVERS

Suggested amount: Check your contract, as gratuity may already be included here. Otherwise, $50-$100 per driver is appropriate.
When to tip: After services are complete

VALET/COAT CHECK

Suggested amount: $.50-$2 per guest. This total would be split among the workers.
When to tip: After services are complete

Gratuities are a great way to show your appreciation and let vendors know they’ve done an outstanding job on your wedding day.

It’s time to talk wedding budgets. To reduce wedding planning stress, it’s important to plan your budget in advance. You’ll want to make sure you and your fiancé are on the same page about what your top spending priorities are – and what you’ll be able to compromise on. 

In 2017, the average couple spent $33,391 on their wedding (excluding the honeymoon). Let’s start by seeing how the average budget breaks down: 

Source: The Knot

Allocating Funds

Typically, your reception will eat up the bulk of your budget. To avoid any surprises, you’ll want to plan accordingly and be sure to leave a rainy day fund for unexpected costs. 

• Stationery: 2–3%

• Wedding rings: 2–3%

• Parking and transportation: 2–3%

• Gifts: 2–3%

• Misc. costs: 8%

• Reception: 48–50%

• Ceremony: 2–3%

• Attire: 8–10%

• Flowers: 8–10%

• Entertainment/music: 8–10%

• Photography/videography: 10–12%

Photo Courtesy of Jodi Gray Photography.

Venue Cost:

One of the first things you’ll have to decide on is your wedding venue. There’s a myriad of options out there and you might consider everything from a barn to a ballroom – but no matter what you choose, this will most likely be the biggest line item on your budget. 

The average venue costs $5,400 (source) and most couples spend between $2,700 to $10,500. 

Things to keep in mind: 

There are a number of factors that can impact your venue cost.  

• Date: One of the biggest things that can impact your venue cost is your wedding date. A Friday or Saturday wedding will typically cost more than an event that takes place during the week or on Sunday. If you’re looking to save, consider a Sunday brunch wedding! 

• Tone: The more formal, the more expensive. A formal wedding means creating an overall upscale vibe – and things like a seated meal, fancy band, and all out decor can quickly add up. 

• Guest count: At Revolution Mill Events we offer flat rate pricing for our venue for up to 200 guests. But keep in mind that you’ll be paying per person for catering so the more people you have the more you’ll be spending.

• Outside vendor fee: Many venues have approved vendor lists or will charge a fee if you hire a vendor outside of their approved list. At The Colonnade, Pepper Moon Catering is proud to offer seamless event management and exclusive catering. We require that all food (with the exception of cakes and specialty desserts), beverage, and equipment rentals must be secured through our team. However, contracted vendors are welcome to provide other goods and services without an additional fee. 

• Parking: Keep in mind that if you select a downtown venue or a venue with valet parking your guests (or you) may end up paying parking fees. Both of our venues offer ample free parking, including a large amount of handicap spots. 
  
  
  

Photo courtesy of Danielle Defayette Photography.

What equipment is included? 

When comparing venue costs, you’ll want to keep in mind what the venue rental fee includes. Does it include basic furniture, flatware or linens?  

77 percent of venues include tables and chairs, but this is something you’ll want to verify. 

At The Colonnade, our rental fees include standard tables, chairs and accessories. Every package includes: 

• (25) 60” Round Tables

• (3) 48” Round Tables

• (6) 6’ x 30” Tables

• (20) 8’ x 30” Tables

• (8) 30” Tall Cocktail Tables

• Podium

• Decorative Easel

• Banquet Chairs

• Base linen package

• Audio/visual equipment

Calculate your costs

Starting to panic about how much this is all going to cost? The Knot offers a free Wedding Budget Calculator to help make sure you’re allocating your funds to the right places. Check it out here. 

If you’re looking for more details on what The Colonnade includes with our rental, check out our Wedding Guide here.  

The following is a guest post written by Larry Martin of A & A Disc Jockey Service. For more on A & A, visit their website or call (336) 292-5446.

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Why have a timeline

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Photo by Jamie Blow Photography

A complete wedding timeline will cover everything from arrival of the vendors, pinning on boutonnieres, to what time linens will arrive. For our purposes, because it's the part of the day I'm involved in, I'm going to focus on the timeline for the celebration. 

You absolutely MUST know your objectives. A wedding celebration consists of a lot of moving pieces. Think of it like a jig saw puzzle. If you have no idea what it is supposed to look like once it's complete, then it is more difficult to put all the pieces together in the proper order. Find your vision for what you want it to look and feel like.

Ask yourself some questions about your dream celebration: 

• How do you want your guests to feel about your day? 

• What do you want them to say about your celebration as they drive home that night? 

• What are the most important memories you want to have when it is over? 

Once you have a clear idea of a destination or your goals, determining the correct path will be much easier!

In the southeast, most of the wedding receptions average about 4 hours in length. Roughly, they usually break down this way: Approximately an hour for cocktail hour, about an hour for the meal, and then that leaves 2 hours for several traditional activities (bouquet, garter, formal departure, etc.) and open dancing. This is usually enough time for everything you wish to do, however you can always add more time if you like.

Purpose of a Timeline

1. It establishes your goals for the event. 

2. It sets out YOUR priorities for your event. If you don’t set them, someone else will. 

3. It assures things that are important to you are done and not overlooked in the excitement of the moment. 

4. It allows you to set the tempo and mood for your celebration.

5. You can use it to arrange activities in a way that flows smoothly and tells your “love story”.

There are certain activities that must be established and demand specific time allotments, so those must be set first to build a logical time. Keep in mind that almost anything you include in your timeline can be planned for and worked around. Anything that happens that isn't in your timeline, simply puts you behind schedule and cuts into other activities. 

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Photo by Danielle Defayette Photography

The ceremony: What time does it start? Keep in mind that your prelude music should start approximately 30 minutes prior. How long is your ceremony? Ask your officiant because the denomination matters. Vendors will be asking you what time the reception begins. Calculate it: start time for ceremony + length of ceremony + travel time (if any) for guests to get from the ceremony to the reception = the start time for your reception. 

Photos: Unless they take the majority of your pictures before the ceremony, most photographers will need some time to take post wedding photos after the ceremony. How much depends on your photographer and you. Are the photographs one of your highest priorities? If so, you might want to allow a little more time to get a few more "creative" shots. Include that time in your timeline and you can plan other activities around it, but be aware of extremes. 

Food: One of the most important reasons to have a reasonably accurate timeline is for your food service. Food has a short window of optimal time to be served and your caterer wants your guests to get their food within that window to maximize their enjoyment of it. 

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Photo by Aura Marzouk Photography

Toasts: Want to know what a difficult job is for a bride? Try going to your dad (who may be paying for all of this) and telling him to please keep his welcome speech short. It is going to be a difficult conversation, but we did an event last year where the bride's dad (while guests were waiting to eat) spoke for 25 minutes, even as his daughter was running her finger across her throat, which is a sign that we thought was universally understood!

Weddings are emotional times and if any speaker gets on the microphone without a script or at least bullet points to keep them on topic, they could ramble on longer than you would like them to. Perhaps the easiest way to deal with this is to simply contact each person that is doing a toast and set some parameters, if you want to maintain control over your schedule for the night. 

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Photo by Jodi Gray Photography

Party Time: First, let me state, no MC or wedding director will let you leave the night without cutting your cake or doing your first dance if those things are on your schedule. The party time is one area where you have some flexibility. If you’re running ahead of schedule, you’ll have more time for you and your guests to dance and celebrate your union. If you are running behind schedule, then this is the area of the celebration that will have to be cut. Here’s where knowing your priorities will help. If you know that your family and friends aren’t big dancers, this is not a priority for you and time could be cut from that if you get behind. No matter which events during the night are most important or least, you must not allow yourself to get too far behind. 

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Photo by Aura Marzouk Photography

Your Ending Time: One of the most important times to get from your venue is the time by which everyone (including your vendors) must be off the premises. As an example, the average DJ will need at least a solid hour from the time they play your departure song to pack everything up and get off the premises. If you added extra lighting and other equipment or in the case of a band it could take longer. When doing your timeline allow for your vendors to pack up and get out. 

Summary:

It may sound like just another piece of paperwork you have to complete, but your timeline is your opportunity to take control of your celebration and make certain that your priorities are observed. There is an old saying: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." One of the reasons I've always put a premium on proper planning is that I am, at heart, a bit lazy. And I have found over the years that it takes much less energy to avoid a problem, than it does to fix one after it happens. If you have questions or need assistance as you tackle your personal timeline, feel free to call.

Once you’ve said “yes,” wedding day prep can become a bit of a whirlwind. All of a sudden you’re faced with a million small decisions – it’s not just picking the dress, it’s picking what kind of table cloths will be used, what time the ceremony will be, organizing a seating chart, and hiring a whole team to help you pull off your special day.  

To help you enjoy the build-up to your special day, we’ve pulled together four must-use wedding resources that can help you make it all happen… with minimal stress.

WeddingWire

WeddingWire is here to take the stress out of planning your big day – they have tools available for picking your wedding date, planning your seating chart, determining your budget, and managing vendors. 

They also have a huge database that lets you search vendors by location. You can browse for everything you need, including venues, photographers, officiants, bands, jewelers, wedding planners, and more. 

Need inspiration? Pinterest is not the only place -- you can get all the inspiration you need on Wedding Wire. You can browse dress styles, check out the user forum, or take advantage of their expansive blog. 

Website: www.weddingwire.com

The Knot

A popular alternative to WeddingWire, The Knot is another one-stop wedding planning shop. On one easy-to-use online hub, you can manage almost all your wedding needs including your:

• Registry

• Guest list

• Budget

• Wedding day timeline

• Vendors

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, The Knot even has a free quiz to help you define your wedding day style. After you take the quiz they’ll help guide you to the right vendors to make your vision a reality. 

Website: www.theknot.com

TriadWeddings

Looking to get more local? TriadWeddings is a premier wedding resource and planning guide in Greensboro. Browse local wedding resources or download their free local wedding guide. 

One of our favorite parts is The Real Weddings section, where you can browse photos of other area couple’s weddings. 

Website: www.triadweddings.com

Triad Bridal Association

Sometimes deciding which vendor to opt for can feel like a real stab in the dark. However, the Triad Bridal Association takes the guesswork out of picking a vendor. 

When you hire a Triad Bridal Association member, you will be working with one of the area’s top wedding professionals. Someone with plenty of experience, who is not learning on your wedding. All of the Members adhere to a Code of Ethics, and you’ll breathe easy knowing that you (and your wedding) are in good hands.

Revolution Mill Events and Pepper Moon Catering are proud members of the Triad Bridal Association!

They’ve also got a section dedicated to local wedding shows where you can even snag a discount on a future show!

Website: www.triadbridal.com

Other Resources

• Evernote: If you’re looking to stay organized, this app (available on desktop and mobile) will keep everything on track. You can make multiple notes/notebooks, add pictures, or set reminders for yourself.

• Google Docs: Check out all the tools available with your Google account! You can use Google Drive to store photos, Google Sheets to make spreadsheets of vendors, and even Google Forms to gather RSVPs. All of your files will be easily shareable and available on your mobile and desktop.
  

Our Resources

If you’ve narrowed down your venue to The Colonnade, we provide a free wedding guide to walk you through everything you need to know about our venue. You can get an idea of a typical timeline, find answers to frequently asked questions, and see what’s included with your rental. 

If you’re ready to start planning your reception food and drink, you can view Pepper Moon’s Catering menu HERE. 

Once you have your guest list, it’s time to figure out how and where to seat everyone. First, you’ll want to figure out what types of tables you’ll be using. 

Traditionally, round tables are a popular option. We also love the trend of mixing table shapes like rounds, squares and rectangles.  Between your ideas and our experience in designing within our event spaces, we’ll come up with the perfect layout to fit your vision. 

Here’s how many people we can fit at each table:

TO ASSIGN SEATS OR TABLES? 

We recommend for you to assign a place for guests to sit – either a table or specific chair. When guests first arrive, they are looking for direction. Minimizing confusion on where to sit creates a smoother event and welcoming environment for your guests. 

Guests can be assigned a specific table, where they will choose a seat, or they can be assigned a specific chair. Either approach will work well, you can decide what’s right for you.

SEATING CHART

Once your guest list and layout is finalized, it’s time to work on your seating  chart.  Unfortunately, this task must wait until close to the wedding after all the RSVPs have come in. 

We suggest working through this task with your partner and other decision makers, so you can talk through the potential issues of where to place each guest.

It's helpful to start by grouping people that already know each other - think tables of families, coworkers, and college friends. However, mixing in a few people that don’t know each other yet will keep things fun and get everyone making new friends. 

A few quick tips: 

• Group people who don’t know each other with those who are similar ages or have shared interests
• Try to balance male and female guests at each table
• Make sure not to put ex-partners together or people who you know don’t like each other
• Instead of having a leftover or “single” table, mix in guests who fit this category at the other tables
• Try to place elderly guests where they’ll have easy access to the restroom and away from the music speakers
   

SEATING CHARTS, PLACE CARDS, AND MORE

Once you’ve got your seating chart set up, you’ll want to make sure your guests know where they’ll be seated. If you have assigned guests to specific seats, you will need to create a seating chart, table numbers, and place cards. If you’ve assigned tables you can skip the place cards. 

We suggest a poster sized chart you can display near the entrance to the seating area. You can organize your seating chart by either alphabetical guest name or table. Depending on the size of your party, listing alphabetically makes it easier for people to find their names. 

You’ll want to make sure table numbers are easy to read and are prominently displayed on the table, but not so large they keep guests from being able to see each other across the table. 

LOOKING FOR SOME INSPIRATION? 

Check out this gallery of table set ups for ideas!

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The following article was written by Jaime Gilliam, Venue & Catering Manager for Revolution Mill Events, and was originally published in Triad Weddings in January 2018.

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Selecting your wedding venue is one of the first major decisions you’ll make as an engaged couple. Your venue sets the tone for the rest of your plans and will likely comprise much of your wedding budget.  Consider the following tips to help you confidently make your decision and reduce planning stress! 

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS

Know your approximate guest count, wedding date options and approximate budget before starting the search. 

ENVISION YOUR DAY

Your venue lays the foundation of telling your unique love story on your wedding day. Chat with your fiancé and other decision makers about the style and aesthetic you have in mind. Are there any essential features the space must have? 

RESEARCH AND TOUR

Use online resources and Triad Weddings to find local wedding venues. You should be able to narrow down options by the framework you set in the previous tips.  Each venue has its own character and charm, and a site visit will help you determine if it is the right fit for you. Save time and find out as much as you can about a venue before you go visit. Contact your top picks in advance to set up a personal tour. Document the details by taking notes and snapping photos to help you make comparisons.

ASK QUESTIONS

Gather as much information as possible! 

• How long is the venue rental?
• What amenities are included, such as tables, chairs and linens? 
• Are outside vendors permitted?
• Are there any décor or grand exit restrictions? 
• Are there enough parking spaces and restrooms to accommodate the guest count? 
• What is the rain plan?
• Does the venue itself photograph well and provide pretty portrait spots? 
• What will the overall guest experience be like?

 

CONSIDER CATERING

Since catering goes hand in hand with your venue, it’s important to consider options during the early planning stages. There are several benefits to choosing a venue with an exclusive caterer. The venue and catering team will work together seamlessly. You’ll typically have one point of contact to coordinate the venue, catering and rental details which makes things easier for you. However, if there is a certain caterer you’d like to work with or you have a specific vision in mind (like food trucks), you’ll want to look for a venue that allows outside vendors. 

COMPARE APPLES TO APPLES

The frustrating thing about the wedding venue search is that you’re usually comparing apples to oranges. All venues include distinctive services and packages, so as you research, try to organize the information in a way that’s easy for you to understand and compare. 

TRUST YOUR INSTINCT

As true with most decisions, if something feels right (or on the other hand, doesn't feel quite right) you should trust your instinct! Look at the big picture - while you may not like every single thing about the venue, if the pros outweigh the cons it’s likely a good fit for you.  Make sure you feel comfortable with the staff, as they are going to be the ones to ensure your day runs smoothly. Be sure to check out online reviews!  

BOOK IT

Request a contract and take the time to read it thoroughly. Confirm your agreement of date, times and details to be provided by the venue are in writing. Be sure to understand all the terms, fees, restrictions and cancellation policy. Now it’s time to sign the contract and pay your deposit to officially lock in your date! 

Congratulations, you can check this important step off your planning checklist!  Your remaining details will start falling into place now that you’ve made this big decision. 

Your Day of Coordinator will coordinate the perfect sendoff! 

Your wedding day is supposed to be all about celebrating you and your new spouse. But a myriad of decisions, detailed schedules, and DIY projects can take the focus off of you and turn the day into a giant stress fest. 

We want you and your loved ones to enjoy your wedding day – and the best way to do that is to hire the right team of wedding professionals.

The Venue and Catering Manager

You can count on the Revolution Mill Events Team to be an integral part in making your day run smoothly. You’ll work with Jaime, our Venue and Catering Manager, to plan the logistics for your day related to the event space and catering. Jaime will coordinate with the Pepper Moon Catering team on the day-of to ensure hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and dinner are served on-time. The catering staff will cut and serve your wedding cake, pass champagne, clean up and pack a yummy to go box for you to enjoy after the wedding.

Jaime and her team will also guarantee the venue and its amenities are accessible to vendors at the scheduled times, the space is properly setup and the inclement weather plan is ready-to-go if needed. 

The Wedding Planner

If you need help defining your wedding vision, finding vendors or figuring out your budget, a Wedding Planner is a great place to start.  Their expertise can help lighten the planning load and keep you from making critical mistakes. They can assist you with everything from choosing your venue to your color scheme, offering etiquette advice, and being a mediator when things get stressful.  One of their biggest values is steering you toward the best vendors for your vision and budget, which saves lots of time. Planners typically help with wedding day coordination and logistics, although there are some who only do pre-event planning and design. 

Not all couples hire a Wedding Planner, because they feel confident in working through the planning phase on their own. In this case, we encourage all of our brides to hire a Wedding Day of Coordinator!

 

Day of Coordinator

Day of Coordinator is the commonly used term, but this vendor will typically assist you the month leading up to your wedding. Their primary role is to coordinate the logistics of your day and ensure everything you have envisioned runs as planned while you enjoy a glass of champagne with your bridesmaids! 

There are some wedding tasks you can delegate to a friend or family member, but wedding coordination is best reserved for an experienced professional. They will be committed to your day and allow your loved ones to celebrate every moment instead of working the night away. 

A professional Day of Coordinator will assist in contacting wedding vendors to confirm details, develop a timeline, setup your décor, help with the flow of guests, cue each stage of the ceremony/reception and find the groom’s missing sock!

One example where a wedding without a Day of Coordinator went wrong? At a recent wedding, the photographers missed the cake cutting because they were in the back eating dinner. It’s completely normal for photographers to step away and grab some dinner, but the DJ didn’t realize the photographer’s absence, and called for the cake cutting to start. As a result, this special moment wasn’t photographed. Because it’s the Day of Coordinator’s job to cue the reception and know where everyone needs to be, this could have been easily avoided!

We feel an experienced Day of Coordinator is essential for a seamless wedding day. Still not convinced? Here’s a quick overview of their general responsibilities: 
 

1. Make sure all the details you have planned come to fruition.
2. Establish the day’s timeline and distribute to vendors.
3. Function as the point of contact for vendors and bridal party.
4. Welcome and manage guest flow.
5. Handle last minute changes and keep vendors informed.
6. Make sure picture taking time stays on track.
7. Instruct you on what to do next, at every point of the day.
8. Orchestrate the setup of your personal items/décor.
9. Assist with your dress, pinning on corsages/bouts, etc.
10. Direct the rehearsal, ceremony and reception.
11. Problem solve any issues that arise (like a drunk guest or vendor that doesn’t show up).
12. Distribute any final payments and tips at the end of the day.
13.  Oversee cleanup and removal of personal items.
14.  Keep you calm and stress free so you can enjoy every moment!
     

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it should give you a pretty good idea of just how indispensable a Wedding Coordinator is to any wedding. Trust us: your future, married self with thank you for hiring someone to take the stress off of your shoulders!