Why Nashville is the Perfect City for Your Wedding
Nashville, often referred to as the Music City, is an extraordinary place to tie the knot. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that Nashville has become a sought-after wedding destination. This comprehensive guide to Nashville weddings aims to provide you with all the essential information you’ll need to plan your dream wedding in this fabulous city.
Nashville offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern sophistication, making it an ideal location for weddings of all styles and sizes. Whether you’re envisioning a grand affair in a historic mansion or a chic, intimate gathering in a modern loft, Nashville has something to offer for every couple. That being said, let’s dive in and explore what makes Nashville a perfect choice for your special day.
The Cost of a Nashville Wedding: What’s the Damage Going to Be?
Average Costs and Budgeting
One of the most crucial aspects of wedding planning is setting a budget. In Nashville, the average luxury level wedding cost can range from $45,000 to $75,000, but this figure can vary widely depending on your choices and preferences. That being said, it’s essential to establish a budget early on and allocate funds to various elements of your wedding.
Breaking Down the Wedding Budget: Where Should Your Money Go?
Understanding how to distribute your budget can be a game-changer in your planning process. Here’s a general guideline on how to allocate your budget across different wedding elements:
- Venue: 20% – The venue often takes up a large chunk of your budget. This percentage can include the cost of renting the space, as well as additional charges like service fees and taxes. In Nashville, venue costs can start at around $1,500 for more modest locations and go up to $15,000 or more for luxurious estates.
- Catering: 15-20% – Food and drink are next on the list. Whether you’re opting for a buffet or a plated dinner, catering costs can add up quickly. Make sure to account for per-person costs, as well as any additional charges like cake-cutting or corkage fees.
- Photography and Videography: 10-15% each – Capturing your special day is priceless, but it does come with a cost. Quality photographers and videographers are in high demand, especially in a city as picturesque as Nashville. Given the importance of these keepsakes, allocating a reasonable percentage of your budget here is advisable.
- Florals and Decor: 8-10% – Flowers and decorations set the ambiance for your wedding. From the bridal bouquet to table centerpieces, the costs can vary based on your aesthetic preferences and the florist’s pricing.
- Music and Entertainment: 5-10% – Whether you’re hiring a DJ or a live band, music is an essential part of any wedding. Nashville, being the Music City, offers a plethora of options, but quality entertainment often comes at a premium.
- Wedding Planner: 5-10% – If you hire a planner, this is another cost to factor into your budget. Planners offer various packages, from day-of coordination to full-service planning, and can be invaluable in streamlining your wedding logistics.
By understanding these percentages, you can create a more realistic and manageable budget. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines; you may choose to allocate your funds differently based on what aspects of the wedding are most important to you. The key is to strike a balance between your dream wedding and financial practicality.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Budgeting for a wedding is not just about accounting for the big-ticket items. There are often hidden costs that will catch you off guard if you’re not careful. These can include service charges, taxes, and even overtime fees for vendors. Always read contracts meticulously and ask for clarifications on any terms that seem ambiguous.
Popular Wedding Venues: Nashville Has Plenty!
Historic Venues
Nashville is steeped in history, offering a plethora of awe-inspiring historic venues for your wedding. Places like the Belle Meade Plantation and the Scarritt Bennett Center are perfect examples. These venues offer a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, providing flexibility for your event. Packages for these historic venues start at around $4,500 for Belle Meade and $1,500 for Scarritt Bennett, offering various amenities that can make your day extra special.
Modern and Chic Spaces
If you’re leaning more towards a contemporary setting, Nashville won’t disappoint. Venues like The Cordelle and The Bridge Building offer a modern aesthetic coupled with state-of-the-art facilities. These venues are perfect for couples who want a sleek, stylish backdrop for their nuptials. The rental fees for these modern spaces can range from $2,500 to $7,500, depending on the amenities and time of year.
Suggested Planners: Nashville’s Got the Local Talent
Expert Planners for a Flawless Event
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the local scene. That’s where a wedding planner can be invaluable. Nashville is home to a plethora of talented planners who can help bring your vision to life. Companies like Laurie D’Anne and Christina Logan Events are highly recommended. These companies offer a range of packages to suit different needs and budgets. These planners have extensive local knowledge and vendor connections, and ensure that every detail of your day is executed flawlessly.
It’s worth mentioning that snagging these luxury level vendors in the Nashville peak wedding season is going to be tough. With that in mind, Let us help you get that sorted out before you go any further.
Why You Should Consider a Planner
The benefits of hiring a wedding planner extend beyond mere logistics. A planner can take a significant amount of stress off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on the more enjoyable aspects of wedding planning. They can handle everything from coordinating with vendors to managing the day-of timeline, ensuring that your special day goes off without a hitch. If you’re planning a destination wedding in Nashville, a local planner can be especially helpful in navigating the ins and outs of the city’s wedding industry.
Problems to Be on the Lookout For
Last-Minute Venue Changes
Nashville is a bustling city with a packed events calendar, which can sometimes lead to last-minute changes or cancellations for your venue. To safeguard against this, it’s advisable to book your venue well in advance and have a backup plan in place. Make sure to read the fine print on your venue contract to understand their cancellation and change policies.
Weather Woes
Nashville generally enjoys a temperate climate, but it’s always wise to have a contingency plan for outdoor events. Sudden weather changes, like rain or even extreme heat, can put a damper on your outdoor plans. Ensure that your venue has an indoor option available. The other option is to rent tents that you can quickly set up in case of poor weather.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a wedding in Nashville, Tennessee?
As previously mentioned, the average cost of a wedding in Nashville can range from $21,000 to $35,000, depending on various factors like venue, vendors, and personal preferences.
How much does a wedding planner cost in Nashville?
The cost of hiring a wedding planner in Nashville can vary widely based on the services you require. Day-of coordination can cost a few hundred dollars, while full-service planning can run into the thousands.
What is the cheapest day to book a wedding venue?
Generally, weekdays and off-peak seasons are more budget-friendly for booking wedding venues. However, this can vary from venue to venue, so it’s best to consult directly for the most accurate information.
Is Nashville a good place to get married?
Absolutely, yes! With its unique blend of historic charm and modern elegance, coupled with a vibrant local culture, Nashville offers something for every couple looking to make their wedding day truly memorable.
Still trying to decide where to go from here? Check out these blogs to learn more about the world of wedding photography and videography with Rebecca Ann Aesthetic.
