Here's another installment of 'Advice from OBX Brides'.  Enjoy... 

1. What venue choices did you make for your ceremony and reception?  Did they work out well?
    108 Budleigh in Manteo. We loved it!  It was such a beautiful location and venue.  We took our photos outside on the Manteo Waterfront and it made for a beautiful setting. The upstairs dressing room was very convenient; large enough to allow for the hair stylist and makeup artists to help me and the bridesmaids get ready.
 
2. What time of year was your event?  Did you honeymoon on the Outer Banks as well?  
    June. Since we live in the area we went to Mexico for the honeymoon.

3. What type of accommodations did your wedding party and out of town guests use?  
    Our out of town family stayed at B&Bs, hotels and of course rental homes.  Our rehearsal dinner took place at my in-laws' beach house, and it was so nice to have everyone together in that atmosphere.  We brought in a caterer so none of us had to cook or clean up.
 
4. Did you plan the event yourself or use a wedding planner or event day coordinator?  
     I was my own wedding planner and loved every minute of it, though I’m probably the exception to that rule!  I did hire an event day coordinator and could NOT have done it without her.  She made sure everyone was where they were supposed to be and when.  She coordinated with all the vendors as well and was invaluable to helping the day run smoothly.

5. Favorite and/or funniest moment?  
    It poured rain all morning (I’m talking torrential downpour) all day.  Everyone thought I’d be freaking out, but I just laughed - you have to be laid back and just roll with the punches.  It ended up clearing just before our photos were scheduled so it worked out in the end.

6. Best budget splurge? 
    The caterer is by far the best budget splurge.  The money you pay is well worth it in exchange for not having to prepare food yourself or clean up afterwards.  Although the photographer was as well - they’re expensive especially on the OBX, but the only thing that lasts after the big day is the pictures!  

7. Best budget savings/value?
    We did our own favors. Little pots of rosemary that we planted ourselves.  It took a lot of time and planning, but was well worth it because it was such a personal touch for our guests.

8. How was your experience with vendors? Any tips or suggestions? 
    Make sure you follow up with everyone about a week before the wedding, just to ensure they haven’t written down the wrong date or time.

9. Any aspect of planning or the big day you wish you’d done differently?  Anything you forgot to consider?
    The day wasn’t perfect but I don’t think there’s anything I would change if I could. 

10. Your #1 piece of advice for brides-to-be planning their upcoming Outer Banks Weddings?  
    Have a coordinator, at least for the wedding day.  They are worth the price you pay, and help to ensure the music is playing when bridesmaids are walking down the aisle, food is being served to guests when bridal pictures are taken, etc.