Welcome to Episode #19 of Before I Do! In today’s episode, we're diving into the ins and outs (as well as tips and hot takes) of planning a bachelor or bachelorette party. We’ll discuss figuring out what you want, setting expectations with your pals, and planning an unforgettable experience. It’s funny how our opinions on these parties have evolved over the years—what we thought was a blast in our 20s is definitely different now that we’re in our 30s!

Below are steps to plan your ideal bachelor/bachelorette party:

1. Figuring Out the Plan

What do you want the vibes to be: Decide whether you’re aiming for a low-key vibe or an all-out rager. We recommend a mixed plan for both upbeat activities and some downtime to relax.

What activities should you consider: Think about the kind of activities you want: lounging by the pool, hitting the beach, a bar crawl, or maybe just curling up with a good book. Make sure to incorporate local experiences—whether that’s rafting in Blue Ridge, Broadway in Nashville, or hiking in Scottsdale.

2. Travel and Timing

Travel Considerations: Be flexible with your destination and travel plans—consider everyone’s financial situation so that all your friends can join in the fun.

Duration and Timing: A Thursday-Sunday trip is common since most people have work commitments. Think about your wedding timeline, the time of year, and the climate when choosing dates. A Google Form can help you easily gather input on dates from the group.

3. Who to Invite and Who Plans It

Who to Invite: Decide who you want to be there to celebrate with you. This does not have to follow traditional invitees.

Who Plans It: Typically, the Best Man or Maid of Honor leads the planning, but it’s a good idea for them to collaborate with the rest of the bridal party. The bride or groom can be involved in the planning process, but that’s totally up to them.

4. Budgeting

Who Pays for What: Generally, the bride or groom should cover their own travel expenses, while the rest of the costs are shared among the bridal party. If there’s a special activity that the bride or groom really wants to do, like a casino night or buying boots in Nashville, consider how to handle that cost.

5. Setting Expectations

Communication is Key: Have an honest conversation with your Best Man or Maid of Honor about your expectations. Let them know what’s important to you and set a timeline to avoid any last-minute stress.

Tune in to the full episode for more insights, tips, and hot takes on planning the perfect bachelor or bachelorette party. Happy planning!

If there is a topic you’d like us to touch on, please let us know by sending a note to thebeforeidopodcast@gmail.com

Be sure to check us out on Instagram:

@beforeidopodcast

@jacksonandjuneevents

And check out our website for all your wedding planning needs: www.jacksonandjuneevents.com

Welcome to Episode #18 of Before I Do! Alex is driving today’s episode as we are doing a "Groom 101" and what parts of the wedding they can jump into planning while having fun with it!

Alex is going to speak from the viewpoint of a groom, because that's his experience, but this is not exclusively for people who identify as grooms. No matter what role you play in the couple, you may be someone who hasn’t been planning this in their head forever and is unsure where to start. We’re here to give some general direction and advice so you don’t feel lost during the planning process, and to make sure all your bases are covered for this big day!

If you identify as a groom, even though you maybe haven’t been dreaming about this day since you were five as much as you dreamt about your MLB career; a wedding day is just as much your day as it is your bride's (60/40, but you get it). Not only is the planning just as much on you as it is on her, but a good bit of it is something you can make special and unique to you, while having a blast doing so.

Let’s break this down a little bit as Alex shares seven areas where you’ll want to have influence as a groom:

1. Venue
2. Food
3. Alcohol
4. Music
5. Seating Chart & Guest List
6. Attire
7. Your ring

Bonus advice: Stay on your groomsmen and make sure they know exactly what will be going on at every point of the day until after dinner when their duties are over. Once the reception starts, it’s all gravy.

We hope this helps, and please let us know if you have any questions about the groom’s point of view, duties, expectations, etc.!

If there is a topic you’d like us to touch on, please let us know by sending a note to thebeforeidopodcast@gmail.com

Be sure to check us out on Instagram:

@beforeidopodcast

@jacksonandjuneevents

And check out our website for all your wedding planning needs: www.jacksonandjuneevents.com

Welcome back to Before I Do! This is Episode #17, and we’re thrilled to continue our summer series, "Let’s Hear It from an Expert!" In today’s episode, Alex and Sammy dive into an exciting conversation with our special guest, Valerie Flynn, owner of T3 Event Rentals!

Valerie will share their journey and the ins and outs of their event rental business. T3 Event Rentals caters to various needs, including corporate events, weddings, graduations, and movie productions. Tune in to hear about their company’s origins, from William’s (Valerie’s husband and co-owner) ambition to become his own boss to how they can work with any budget and vision to create the ideal setting for your event.

Valerie will also discuss the logistics of event rentals. Discover what goes into installing a full tent wedding, learn what questions to ask your rental company during your initial consultation, and what to watch out for when choosing your rental team. Valerie will explain why quality often trumps cost and how their process helps clients select the best rental items for their needs.

Valerie also shares tips on coordinating with multiple vendors, ensuring clear communication, and maximizing your rental experience. They also emphasize the importance of understanding that your budget doesn’t limit their ability to create your dream look.

Connect with T3 Event Rentals:

- Website: www.t3eventrentals.com

- Instagram: @t3eventrentals

- Facebook: T3 Event Rentals (https://www.facebook.com/T3EventRentals)

Don’t forget to check out their website and social media for more information and to book T3 Event Rentals for your next event!

If there is a topic you’d like us to touch on, please let us know by sending a note to thebeforeidopodcast@gmail.com

Be sure to check us out on Instagram:

@beforeidopodcast

@jacksonandjuneevents