Discover why a Minneapolis wedding planner is a must-have. Pro tips from Kimberly Lakenen on rain plans, design, and more for your dream Stillwater wedding.
Planning Your Minneapolis Wedding
When you start planning your Minneapolis wedding, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in Pinterest boards and spreadsheets. As a Minneapolis wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how a couple’s energy shifts when they have a professional by their side to handle the heavy lifting.
Recently, I sat down with the wonderful Kimberly Lakenen, owner of It’s The Little Things Events, to talk about why a Minneapolis wedding planner is about so much more than just a budget. Whether you’re dreaming of a Stillwater wedding by the river or a chic industrial celebration in the North Loop, Kimberly’s insights will help you protect your peace (and your timeline!).
Top 3 Tips for a Stress-Free Minneapolis Wedding Day
I asked Kimberly for her top “insider” advice for couples currently in the trenches of planning. Here is what she had to say:
1. Be Intentional About Staying Together
It sounds simple, but it’s so easy to get pulled in separate directions during the reception. Kimberly suggests being 100% intentional about spending the day together. It is so special to be able to remember the same day together because you experienced it side by side!
2. Have an “End of Night” Strategy
When the party is over, all people want to think about is going to bed or finding the afterparty. Nobody wants to think about clearing decor, saving leftover desserts, or securing the cards and gifts. Before your Minneapolis wedding, make sure you and your planner know who is in charge of each item so you can leave your event worry-free!
3. The “Rain Plan Bonus”
Don’t just have a backup plan—have a “bonus.” It’s easy to be devastated when Mother Nature shifts your Stillwater wedding plans, so Kimberly recommends creating a change you can actually be excited about. Whether that’s switching your flower girls to “cookie girls” or swapping a bubble send-off for ribbon tassels, a “bonus” helps your mindset during that last-minute shift.
Design vs. DIY: Bringing Your “Visual Story” to Life
From a Minneapolis wedding photographer’s perspective, the “visual story” is everything. I asked Kimberly how a professional planner elevates the design in a way that DIY simply can’t.
“A planner allows your dreams to come to life in a realistic way,” she shared. “Pinterest often shows weddings from around the world that may be unrealistic for a Minnesota wedding. For example, pampas leaves in the Spring are hard to find, and Hydrangeas won’t survive a winter ceremony outdoors!”
Beyond seasonal logistics, It’s The Little Things Events has resources at their fingertips that the general public doesn’t. They know exactly where to find those specific glass chargers, patterned linens, or even a DJ that can seamlessly work with live musicians. Choosing the DIY method often leads to additional stress, whereas a pro already has pricing lists and exclusive vendor discounts ready to go.
Protecting Your Peace: The Planner as a “Bodyguard”
One of the biggest perks of hiring a planner like Kimberly? They act as a buffer. On your wedding day, your only job is to be the guest of honor.
The Timeline Buffer: Sometimes family will ask to push events up or back to wait for late guests. Kimberly acts as a “bodyguard,” letting guests know there is a strict timeline to keep all vendors (like your Minneapolis wedding photographer!) on the same page.
The Personal Buffer: Guests are so excited to see you that they can sometimes “bombard” you, distracting you from the task at hand. It’s The Little Things Events ensures you get those moments alone together to actually enjoy the meal and appetizers you spent months picking out!
What Couples Don’t Know (But Should!)
Most couples are planning a wedding for the first time—they don’t know what they don’t know. The true value of a Minneapolis wedding coordinator isn’t just balancing a checkbook; it’s the logistical mastery. Kimberly understands the best order of events, local customs, and where the “stress points” usually happen so they can prep for them before the big day even arrives.
Looking for a Minneapolis Wedding Photographer?
If you are currently looking for a Minneapolis wedding photographer or a Stillwater wedding photographer who loves capturing joyful, intentional moments, I would love to chat! Click here to start and let’s start planning your dream day.
Featured Vendor:
- Planner: Kimberly Lakenen | It’s The Little Things Events
- Photography: Emily Mitchell Photography
