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Welcome to the SJ Coordination & Events blog — a curated space for practical wedding guidance and behind-the-scenes insight. Whether you’re planning a Smoky Mountain celebration or a Knoxville reception, you’ll find structured advice designed to help you feel organized, confident, and prepared every step of the way.
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
Day-Of vs Elopement Coordination: What’s the Difference?
If you’re planning a small wedding or elopement in Austin or San Antonio, you may be wondering: Do we need day-of coordination, or elopement coordination? The two services sound similar — but they support very different experiences. This guide explains the difference clearly, so you can choose what actually fits your day. What Is Day-Of Coordination? Day-of coordination is designed for traditional weddings with a full planning process already in place. Typically, day-of coor
shaunaedwards80
Dec 24, 20252 min read
Best Elopement Locations in Austin & San Antonio (Planning Tips Included)
Choosing where to elope is one of the most exciting parts of planning — and one of the most misunderstood. Austin and San Antonio offer beautiful options for elopements, from outdoor spaces to private venues. But not every location works the same way, and what looks perfect online can feel very different in real life. This guide walks through popular elopement location types in Central Texas , plus what couples should consider before choosing. Outdoor Elopement Locations in A
shaunaedwards80
Dec 19, 20253 min read
How Much Does an Elopement Cost in Austin & San Antonio? A Realistic Breakdown
One of the first questions couples ask when planning an elopement is simple: How much does an elopement actually cost? In Austin and San Antonio, elopement costs vary widely — not because couples are doing something wrong, but because elopements can take many forms. This guide breaks down realistic elopement costs in Central Texas, so you can plan with clarity instead of guesswork. The Short Answer: It Depends on the Experience Elopements are not one-size-fits-all. A courthou
shaunaedwards80
Dec 18, 20253 min read
Austin & San Antonio Elopement Permits and Marriage Licenses Guide
Elopements feel simple — until paperwork and permits enter the picture. If you’re planning an elopement in Austin or San Antonio , understanding marriage licenses, permits, and local rules early will save time, stress, and last-minute surprises. This guide breaks it down clearly, so you can focus on the experience — not the logistics. How to Get a Marriage License in Texas To legally marry in Texas, you’ll need a marriage license issued by a county clerk. Basic Texas Marriage
shaunaedwards80
Dec 15, 20253 min read
Planning an Elopement in Austin or San Antonio
A romantic elopement wedding set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop, capturing a couple's intimate moment as they hold hands and exchange vows amidst nature's splendor. Elopements are often described as simple. The best ones are intentionally supported. Whether your elopement is quiet or scenic, planned months ahead or kept beautifully small, the goal is the same — a day that feels calm, meaningful, and fully yours. If you’re planning an elopement in Austin or San Anton
shaunaedwards80
Dec 11, 20252 min read
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PLANNING A SPRING 2026 TEXAS HILL COUNTRY ELOPEMENT
This quick and easy guide for a wonderful wedding
shaunaedwards80
Dec 3, 20254 min read
THE ULTIMATE SPRING 2026 TEXAS WEDDING TIMELINE
Texas Wedding: For Austin, San Antonio & Fredericksburg Brides Spring weddings in Texas are pure magic — wildflowers, glowing sunsets, and soft breezes set the stage for unforgettable moments. But that beauty also comes with unpredictable weather, busy venues, and a fast-paced timeline that can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. If you’re planning a Spring 2026 wedding in Austin, San Antonio, or Fredericksburg, this guide will walk you through a calm, step-by-step timeli
shaunaedwards80
Nov 29, 20253 min read
How to Plan a Stress-Free Wedding in San Antonio, Austin, or Fredericksburg
A Calm Coordinator’s Guide Planning a wedding in San Antonio, Austin, or Fredericksburg should feel exciting, not overwhelming. But between venues, timelines, family expectations, and all those tiny details, it can start to feel like a second full-time job. This guide is written for you, the bride or couple who wants a beautiful Texas celebration and the gift of peace on your wedding day. I’m ShaunaJane of SJ Coordination & Events, and this is the same calm, step-by-step appr
shaunaedwards80
Nov 25, 20255 min read
Wedding Day Tips: Wedding Food Ideas |Stationary or Passed Hors d'oeuvres? Buffet, Plated, Food Truck or Stations
Charcuterie-style wedding cocktail hour food display with cheese, fruit, meats, and appetizers Wedding food ideas can be such a fun process! How important is your dinner to you at your wedding? Are you planning to go all out with stations at the reception, doing a plated meal or buffet style? All of this comes into play when deciding on a snack before the big meal. Believe it or not, a lot of couples have a hard time deciding on what is best for giving their guests a little
shaunaedwards80
Sep 25, 20254 min read
Keep Your Wedding Coordinator In Shape By...16 On Your Wedding Coordinator Checklist
So you just got engaged and you are getting MARRIED!! Whether it's your first rodeo or second, we have all been to THAT wedding where it was absolute chaos because there was no coordinator. Vendors were late, no one had a clue what to do and where to go, what is being set up, or who is setting what up? So many questions and so little time! Well you learned from THAT wedding and you decided to be smart and hire a day of coordinator. Great job! So now what? Well, it's time to
shaunaedwards80
Jul 11, 20254 min read
Reception Ideas: 6 Cocktail Hour Games and Ice Breakers For Your Guests
Taking photos many not seam long but it is for guests at your wedding who may not know very many people. Here are a few ideas to get the party started with breaking the ice. Wedding Cocktail Hour ideas for your wedding day! Axe Throwing - Yes, I said it and it works! What a fun way to get your guests cheering each other on and having fun. Just research awe throwing for weddings and I am sure you will get a number of places to show up! 2. Wedding Day Piñata - Now this is s
shaunaedwards80
Nov 4, 20242 min read
DIY Napkin Folding | Elevate Your Wedding Reception Tables with a Two-Pocket Napkin Fold
Want your wedding tables to look instantly more elevated? This simple two-pocket napkin fold is an easy DIY detail that upgrades your place settings and looks beautiful in photos—perfect for weddings in Texas (Austin, Fredericksburg, San Antonio) and Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville, Rogers, Beaver Lake, Bella Vista).
shaunaedwards80
Sep 19, 20242 min read
Wedding Planning Tips: How To Do A Seating Chart For A Wedding | Seating Arrangement Advice For Your Day
One of the most asked questions: How to do a seating chart for a wedding. We all know that this is the only part of planning that gives everyone a headache. Who likes who, who knows who, who is loud, or who can't hear. Let's just say, you are not the only couple to put this at the bottom of the list. When you resurface and get this done, use a little of this advice to make this process a easier. Make sure your floor plan chair count matches the number of guests assigned to ea
shaunaedwards80
Aug 16, 20242 min read
Reception Ideas: Dessert Station Ideas For Weddings
Looking for wedding dessert station ideas? From donut walls to cupcake towers and dessert tables, these sweet station ideas add style and fun to your reception—plus tips to keep your timeline smooth and stress-free.
shaunaedwards80
Mar 19, 20243 min read
Wedding Planning Tips: 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
Wedding Inspiration: First Look vs. First Touch (Which One Fits Your Wedding Day Timeline?)
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
Wedding Inspiration: Simple Wedding Hairstyles | Ideas For Wedding Day Hairstyles And Makeup That Will Turn Heads
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 &
shaunaedwards80
Jan 18, 20231 min read
Wedding Budget Tips: Affordable Venue Ideas + Airbnb Cabin Weddings in Texas & Northwest Arkansas
Want a beautiful wedding without the high venue price tag? This guide shares smart, budget-friendly venue ideas—including Airbnb cabin weddings and private property celebrations—in Texas (Austin, Fredericksburg, San Antonio) and Northwest Arkansas (Bentonville, Rogers, Beaver Lake, Bella Vista). Plus, what you must plan ahead so your day stays organized and stress-free.
shaunaedwards80
Sep 25, 20223 min read
Beautiful Wedding Pictures Anie & Daniel's Wedding
Have a look at these beautiful wedding pictures capturing this lovely couple! Congratulations again to such an awesome power couple Anie & Daniel. Wishing you nothing but the best in life and looking forward to seeing you again! Venue Location: The Magnolia https://themagnoliavenue.com/ Coordination: SJ Coordination & Events LLC https://www.sjcoordination.com/ Wedding Coordination and Event Coordination in: Texas Weddings | Arkansas Weddings |
shaunaedwards80
Aug 18, 20221 min read
Don't Stress! Let Us Handle It!
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Fort Collins Colorado and Cheyenne Wyoming!
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