50 Planning Tips For Oklahoma Weddings
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General Planning Tips
Start Early
Begin planning at least 12–18 months in advance to secure popular venues and vendors.
Create a Budget
Set a clear budget and prioritize what matters most to you.
Make a Checklist
Use a detailed wedding planning checklist to stay organized.
Hire a Planner
Consider hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator to reduce stress.
Set Your Guest List Early
This will influence venue size, catering, and budget decisions.
Choose Your Wedding Style
Decide on a theme or vibe (rustic, elegant, modern, etc.) to guide decisions.
Use a Planning App
Utilize a wedding planning app to keep everything in one place.
Oklahoma-Specific Planning Tips
Understand OK Weather
Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially if planning an outdoor wedding.
Seasonal Flowers
Take advantage of Oklahoma’s seasonal blooms, like wildflowers, sunflowers, and roses, to add local beauty to your wedding décor while keeping costs down.
Peak Seasons
Fall weddings are especially popular in Oklahoma thanks to the mild weather and colorful autumn backdrops. Since venues book up quickly during this season, it’s best to reserve your date early.
Local Vendors
Oklahoma has a wealth of talented local vendors. Check out wedding expos or directories for recommendations.
Get the Marriage License
Apply for your marriage license in your county or the county of your wedding venue.
Consider OK Barn Venues
Rustic barn venues are abundant and popular across the state.
Plan for a Backup Location
Outdoor weddings in Oklahoma should always have a backup plan due to unpredictable weather.
Venue Tips
Tour Venues in Person
Photos don’t always capture the true feel of a space.
Ask About Restrictions
Check for noise ordinances, catering limitations, or alcohol rules.
Outdoor-Friendly Options
Consider venues with covered patios or tents.
Destination Weddings in OK
From rustic barns and rolling prairies to lively city venues and scenic mountain views, Oklahoma offers stunning backdrops for every style of celebration.
Book Early
Oklahoma’s top venues fill up quickly, especially on Saturdays in spring and fall.
Vendor Tips
Prioritize Vendors
Book must-have vendors (like photographers or caterers) as soon as you secure your venue.
Check References
Ask for reviews and portfolios before booking.
Meet Vendors in Person
Establish a connection to ensure they align with your vision.
Ask for Discounts
Some vendors offer deals for Friday or Sunday weddings.
Hire Local
Local vendors are often more familiar with Oklahoma venues and weather conditions.
Oklahoma Food & Drink Tips
Celebrate Local & Cultural Flavor
Oklahoma is a diverse state, so let your wedding menu reflect that richness. Skip the generic options and work with local caterers, bakeries, and food trucks that represent the real communities that make up Oklahoma.
Offer Seasonal Menus
Celebrate your wedding with seasonal, locally sourced flavors or a fresh, delicious menu that supports local farms and reflects Oklahoma’s best.
Mobile Bars & Food Trucks
Add fun and flavor to your celebration with a mobile bar or food truck—think craft cocktails from a vintage camper or late-night tacos, pizzas, or barbecue from a gourmet truck. It’s a relaxed, memorable way to keep guests mingling and savoring every moment.
Signature Cocktails
Toast to love with Oklahoma-inspired cocktails that capture the state’s spirit—think a Blackberry Sage Smash with local berries, a Prairie Sunset made with peach and bourbon, or a Spicy Sooner Mule featuring a kick of jalapeño and a splash of Oklahoma honey.
In the Backyard
Welcome Bags
Give your out-of-town guests a warm Oklahoma welcome with locally inspired goodies! Fill their bags with treats like Bedré chocolate, Oklahoma honey or pecan brittle, and a mini bottle of locally distilled bourbon or sweet tea for a true taste of the Sooner State.
Unique Local Accommodations
Let your guests experience true Oklahoma charm with unique local stays. From cozy cabins near scenic lakes to chic boutique hotels in Oklahoma City or restored historic inns along Route 66, there’s no shortage of welcoming places to rest and recharge.
Transportation Services
Arrange shuttle or transportation services for your guests to keep your celebration stress-free. Whether it’s a vintage trolley, a sleek party bus, or a fleet of vans, organized transportation ensures everyone arrives safely and on time so guests can relax, enjoy the festivities, and toast without worrying about the drive home.
Interactive Elements
Bring extra fun to your wedding with interactive touches that get guests mingling and smiling. Set up a stylish photo booth with custom props, yard games like cornhole or giant Jenga, or a s’mores station under the stars. These hands-on experiences add personality to your day and create unforgettable memories for everyone.
Share Your Story
Include a custom element that reflects your Oklahoma connection, like a map of your journey together.
Décor & Design Tips
Use Seasonal Décor
Lean into Oklahoma’s seasonal colors – think vibrant fall leaves or soft spring florals.
DIY Wisely
Consider DIYing smaller details like table numbers but leave large projects to professionals.
Rent Instead of Buy
Check local rental companies for everything from linens to arches.
Repurpose Décor
Use ceremony flowers to decorate the reception area.
Timeline Tips
Build in Extra Time
Pad your wedding day schedule to account for delays.
Include Travel Time
If you have multiple locations, ensure travel time is factored in.
Start Hair & Makeup Early
Leave plenty of time for touch-ups and delays.
Photography & Videography Tips
Golden Hour Photos
Plan for sunset photos to capture Oklahoma’s scenic beauty.
Create a Shot List
Ensure your photographer knows your must-have moments.
Engagement Session
Book a session to get comfortable with your photographer and comfortable posing for photos.
Attire Tips
Shop Local
Oklahoma is home to a fantastic selection of bridal boutiques and wedding shops. Explore local favorites to find the perfect look while supporting local businesses.
Consider the Weather
Pick fabrics and accessories that suit Oklahoma’s seasonal temperatures.
Comfortable Shoes
If your venue has uneven ground or grass, bring comfortable or flat shoes.
Legal & Etiquette Tips
Include Marriage License in Your Budget
The marriage license application fee is reasonable, but it varies by location. Be sure to check with your local clerk’s office.
Plan for Officiant Requirements
Ensure your officiant meets the requirements for perform a ceremony in your city or town.
Send Invitations Early
Send invites 6–8 weeks before the wedding, or 3 months in advance for destination weddings.
Be Grateful
Send thank-you notes to your vendors and guests to leave a lasting impression.