Planning a wedding is a journey, and knowing when to secure each vendor can transform the process into a seamless and elegant experience. For couples celebrating at Donovan Manor in Raleigh, careful timing ensures every detail of the day unfolds with grace and precision.

12 - 18 Months Before: Secure Your Venue and Key Vendors

The first step in your planning should always be reserving your venue. Donovan Manor in Raleigh provides a timeless setting for weddings, and booking your date well in advance allows you to focus on the next steps with confidence. At this stage, consider booking your photographer and videographer, as the best professionals are often reserved over a year in advance. Engaging a wedding planner early can help guide your choices, coordinate timelines, and provide peace of mind throughout the process.

9 - 12 Months Before: Lock in Creative Essentials

Around this period, focus on the vendors who shape the aesthetic and atmosphere of your celebration. Secure your florist to ensure seasonal blooms are available for your Donovan Manor wedding. Confirm your entertainment, whether a live band or DJ, to create the desired ambiance. Begin shopping for wedding attire for yourself and your bridal party, allowing ample time for fittings and refinements.

6 - 9 Months Before: Attend to the Details

Now is the time to focus on the elements that bring your vision together. Send save-the-dates and prepare invitations. Arrange transportation for guests, and confirm your officiant to refine the ceremony plans. These details ensure your wedding at Donovan Manor flows smoothly and elegantly.

3 - 6 Months Before: Secure Finishing Touches

Book vendors who provide the final touches for your day. Schedule tastings with your cake designer, and confirm hair and makeup artists for trials and the wedding day. Secure rental items such as décor, linens, or furnishings, ensuring every element reflects the refined atmosphere of your Donovan Manor celebration.

1 - 3 Months Before: Final Confirmations and Rehearsals

In the final months, confirm timelines with each vendor and host a rehearsal at Donovan Manor in Raleigh. This ensures the day unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to enter your wedding with calm confidence and anticipation.

Careful planning and thoughtful timing allow every aspect of your celebration at Donovan Manor in Raleigh to unfold with elegance. By following this timeline, couples can focus on the joy of the engagement, knowing that their wedding day will be a reflection of timeless beauty, precision, and grace.

Catering: Donovan’s Dish

Planner: Events by La Fete

Photographer: Photography by Madison Pake

Florist: Heritage Floral Design

Rental Company: American Party Rentals

Specialty Rental Company: Party Reflections | BBJ La Tavola

Entertainment: Punch

HMUA: Mena Garcia Beauty

Specialty Lighting: Heron Events, LLC