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Welcome to the SJ Coordination & Events blog — practical wedding planning advice, day-of coordination tips, and real-world guidance for couples planning weddings in Columbia, SC, Lake Murray, Lexington, Augusta, GA, Aiken, Greenville, Anderson, and Lake Hartwell.
Whether you’re planning a lake wedding, Airbnb celebration, intimate elopement, or traditional venue wedding, you’ll find straightforward advice to help you stay organized, avoid common planning mistakes, and enjoy a smoother wedding day.
No question is too small, no idea is too big — this is your space to learn, prepare, dream, and feel supported every step of the way.
“Have fun, try new things, laugh out loud, and make memories that last a lifetime.” — SJ Edwards
Who Actually Runs the Wedding Day If You Don't Hire a Coordinator?
One of the most common questions couples realize late in the planning process is: “Wait… who actually runs the wedding day?” When you hire a full wedding coordinator, that person typically manages the timeline, vendors, and flow of events. But many couples today are planning DIY weddings, cabin weddings, Airbnb weddings, or small destination weddings where they choose not to hire a full coordinator. That’s completely understandable, however, one problem almost always shows up
shaunaedwards80
Mar 163 min read
Wedding Food Ideas & Decisions That Can Ruin Your Timeline (What to Choose Instead)
Your wedding food decisions don’t just affect what guests eat… They directly impact your timeline, your flow, and whether your day feels smooth—or chaotic. Most couples don’t realize this until it’s too late. Here’s exactly how to choose the right food style for YOUR wedding day. Before choosing your wedding food style, ask yourself this: Light or bashful eaters: Passed Hors d'oeuvres: 2 will work perfect! Yours guests will be hungry by cocktail hour and looking for food but
shaunaedwards80
Sep 25, 20254 min read
6 Cocktail Hour Games & Ice Breaker Ideas for Wedding Guests
Cocktail hour can feel long for guests who don’t know many people, especially while the wedding party is taking photos. A few simple games or interactive activities can help guests relax, mingle, and have fun before the reception begins. Wedding Cocktail Hour ideas for your wedding day! Axe Throwing - A mobile axe-throwing setup can be a fun option for outdoor weddings and gives guests something unexpected to talk about and enjoy together. 2. Wedding Day Piñata - Customize a
shaunaedwards80
Nov 4, 20242 min read
How to Create a Wedding Seating Chart Without the Stress
Creating a wedding seating chart can feel overwhelming. Who gets along? Who needs to sit near family? Who prefers a quieter table? You’re definitely not the only couple who puts this task off. These simple seating-chart tips can make the process much easier. Match guest counts to the floor plan. Make sure the number of guests assigned to each table matches the actual chair count. A missing seat creates unnecessary confusion when guests arrive. Don’t remove extra tables or cha
shaunaedwards80
Aug 16, 20242 min read
Wedding Table Place Settings Ideas
Wondering what your wedding table place settings should include? This guide covers place setting essentials, styling ideas, and simple tips to create an elevated guest experience—plus how a wedding coordinator helps your reception setup run smoothly.
shaunaedwards80
Sep 24, 20233 min read
First Look vs. First Touch
Not sure whether to do a first look or a first touch on your wedding day? This guide breaks down the differences, the pros of each option, and how it affects your wedding timeline—plus why having a coordinator makes the moment stress-free and seamless.
shaunaedwards80
Aug 8, 20234 min read
Napkin Folding Ideas: The Classy Black Napkin Fold For Your Wedding Day To Consider
Want an elevated wedding table look with almost no effort? This classy black envelope napkin fold is a simple, elegant way to upgrade your place settings—perfect for modern receptions, romantic candlelight tablescapes, and timeless wedding design.
shaunaedwards80
Mar 6, 20232 min read
Simple Wedding Day Hairstyles
Are you having a hard time deciding on where to start when it comes to hairstyles for your wedding day? Say no more! Take a look at some simple wedding hairstyles and designs below and if you are looking to get married in the WNC mountains, don't forget to contact these local hair stylists. Hair & Makeup Stylist: Perri Jones email: luxebeauteclt@gmail.com Hair & Makeup Stylist: Alesha Badger https://www.instagram.com/ladyb_beauty34/?hl=en Above: Bride & Mother of Bride- H & M
shaunaedwards80
Jan 18, 20231 min read
Beautiful Wedding Pictures Beth & Thom's Wedding
Take a look at this couples' beautiful wedding pictures of their day! Congrats Beth & Thom! You two are such a fun and silly couple that brightens a room. Wishing you all the best in life. Venue Location: The Lodge at Bear River https://www.thelodgeatbearriver.com/ Coordination: SJ Coordination & Events LLC https://www.sjcoordination.com/ Photos Provided By: Scott Henry Photography scott@scotthenryphotography.com Planning a wedding in Columbia, SC, Lake Murray, Lexington, Au
shaunaedwards80
Aug 9, 20221 min read
Wedding Day Send Off Ideas
Let's face it, this is always a struggle. Start researching ideas first...ok after dessert selections. There are so many ways to make your grand finale cool. Here are a few wedding day send off ideas to get your wheels turning. Paper Airplane- easy, cheap, and fun. Just be careful and duck. You don't want to loose an eye on your wedding day. Glow Sticks- awesome, awesome, awesome. These pictures really bring light to the night. Floating Lanterns- so romantic and classy. It re
shaunaedwards80
Jul 21, 20221 min read
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