Throw a Wedding Like the A-Listers, With Tips From Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder’s Wedding Planner

GET INSPIRED—AND THEN GET HELP There are lots of fun, fresh ideas for every aspect of your big day, from save-the-dates to aisle decorations to favor tables. Pick up wedding magazines and click through Pinterest—then bring your ideas to the pros to help decide if you can make them work. (Your florist will tell you if you have the budget for peonies in December or a 20-piece band.)
PICK A SURPRISING VENUE You should choose your venue before you make any other decisions (time of day, formality, color palette), so seek out something that’s meaningful to you as a couple. Hot on celebrities’ radar right now, Andrea says: private estates, floral gardens, rustic ranches, vineyards, and destination venues with breathtaking ocean views.
SPEND ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU Even celebrities have a budget cap—so every bride and groom has to decide what elements they want to highlight. If flowers are your priority, spend more on tall arrangements for a guaranteed “WOW!” factor; if you care more about food than florals, opt for low, low-key centerpieces and warm candlelight.
DON’T LET TRENDS DICTATE YOUR STYLE A celeb who’s edgy in her everyday life will often pick a wedding dress that makes her feel exquisite—even if it’s not a trendy label or silhouette. Pick something that works for you and your body, never mind what’s happening on the red carpet.
GREET YOUR GUESTS WITH GIFTS If your friends and family have to travel to get to your wedding, say thanks by having an out-of-town guest bag waiting for them at the hotel. The basics, Andrea says, are something sweet, something salty, and a refreshing beverage; you could also include a personal note and a list of local restaurants and amenities. Celebs go above and beyond with something as fancy as a designer bath robe.
GET PERSONAL Celebrities might make a lasting impression with custom cocktails, monogrammed napkins, or different china at every place setting. Pick at least one personalized element that will make your wedding “just so YOU.”

LET ’EM REST Celebrity clients, Andrea says, often request lounge furniture by the dance floor as part of their celebration because they want their guests to feel comfortable sitting out a dance or two but to still feel like part of the party. Couches, plush pillows, or even blankets for outdoor events help to create a warm and inviting ambience.