How to Plan the Southwest Wedding of Your Dreams From Top Wedding Pros

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Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to plan an event that will show off your unique style and personality. If you’ve always dreamed of having a southwestern-style wedding, there are ways to make it happen without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to plan the southwest wedding of your dreams.


Choose a Venue That Fits Your Theme

The first step in planning your southwestern-style wedding is picking the perfect venue. You want a space that has all the elements of a classic southwest vibe—think desert vibes, cacti, and sandstone walls. If you’re lucky enough to be getting married in Arizona or New Mexico, you’re sure to find plenty of options for outdoor ceremonies. But if you’re not in one of those states, don’t worry—there are still plenty of venues that offer that southwestern aesthetic indoors as well.

Conch Concierge Weddings

“Take the stress out of destination wedding planning and hire a planner who knows the top locations and has strong relationships with talented event professionals,” says Michael Vernon owner of Conch Concierge Weddings, a company specializing in Key West wedding packages.

Big Daddy Walker Productions

“Be sure to add a couple of bridal shows or venue open houses to your planning mix,” says Allen Walker, owner of Cincinnati DJs Big Daddy Walker Productions. “You’ll find lots of fresh ideas and it’s a good way to get to know your potential vendors.”

My Event Pros

Alan Chavez, a Los Angeles wedding DJ and owner of My Event Pros, is a firm believer in entertainment teams. “The DJ experience kicks in only when the dance floor is open. A talented MC will keep your event on schedule, keep your vendors on track and engage your guests while they are seated.”

B-Sharp Entertainment

“Don’t forget your ceremony,” reminds Brendan Lafferty, one of the top wedding DJs in Rhode Island and owner of B-Sharp Entertainment. “Not only your musical selections but mics and a sound system as well. You worked hard on those vows – make sure everyone hears them.” Live ceremony music can also enhance the guest experience.

Go Bold with Color

When it comes to color schemes for your southwest-inspired wedding, don’t be afraid to go bold! Colors like deep orange, burnt red, and turquoise blue are great options for creating an eye-catching look. And remember—you don’t have to stick with just one color! Incorporating several colors into your decor can help create an even more vibrant atmosphere. You could also consider using patterns like stripes or polka dots for a fun and playful twist on traditional southwestern decorating styles.

Volume Entertainment

“DJ’s are an invaluable resource when it comes to putting together a reception timeline. They understand there’s a flow to a reception and know how to adjust a timeline when necessary – we do it all the time,” says Rob Schneider, owner of Volume Entertainment and a wedding DJ in Connecticut.

Premier Sound

“Take advantage of multiple consultations and planning sessions with your vendors,” advises Jim Slaiman, a wedding DJ in Buffalo NY and owner of Premier Sound. “Whether it’s face to face, Zoom, or a phone call, these opportunities are the place to iron out details and do some creative brainstorming that will make your wedding uniquely yours.”

Hercules Entertainment

“Consider live streaming your wedding,” suggests William Sanchez, owner of Hercules Entertainment, specializing in DJs in Northern Virginia, including bilingual. “It’s a great way for those who can’t make the wedding to still enjoy being part of your day.”

Think Outside Of The Box For Food And Beverages

When it comes time to decide what kind of food and drinks will be served at your reception, think outside the box! Instead of going with typical catering options like steak or chicken dishes, why not opt for something more unique? Consider serving Southwestern favorites like tacos or burritos with all the fixings—guests will love digging into some delicious Southwestern fare! For drinks, margaritas and sangrias are always crowd pleasers at any southwestern-themed event.

The Mackey House

“Get your partner onboard with planning and delegate certain tasks,” says Trey Mackey, owner of The Mackey House, an elite wedding venue in Savannah, GA. “It’s only fitting that you take this journey together. And you’ll get a lot more done – and quicker – if you have your other half help you.”

The Estate at Florentine Gardens

Says Ciro Diadone from The Estate at Florentine Gardens, a top wedding venue in north New Jersey, “Venues are great resources for finding other wedding professionals. They witness the talent of vendors on a regular basis. Build your vendor team with experienced pros who work well together.”

Coastal DJ & Video

“Entertainment companies offer more than just DJ’s,” explains George Wainwright, owner of Coastal DJ & Video and a wedding DJ in Wilmington, NC. “Ask about packaging entertainment with other services like lighting, photo booths, and videography that really enhance the event.”

Elevated Events

As wedding decorators in Chicago, Aly Heintz Raddatz and his team at Elevated Events, affirm “Lighting is one of the most transformative decorating elements and always adds a “wow” factor to any reception. It creates amazing ambiance for your reception.”

Exquisite Sounds Entertainment

“Don’t micromanage your playlist,” says Toryn Lankford, a DJ in Atlanta and owner of Exquisite Sounds Entertainment. “You’ve hired a professional to create an amazing party atmosphere. We’ll make sure we get your favorites seamlessly blended into the mix and avoid songs you do not want.”


Planning a southwestern-style wedding doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful! Just follow these simple tips and you’ll be well on your way to having the southwest wedding of your dreams. From choosing a venue that fits your theme and going bold with colors in your decor, to thinking outside the box when it comes to food and beverages—there are so many ways you can bring a bit of southwest flavor into your special day! Best of luck planning the big day—we know it’s going to be amazing!

Brian Lawrence is a wedding business marketing expert who has helped thousands of clients like Alan Berg and Joe Bunn with consulting, marketing and web design. We’ve partnered with Brian Lawrence to bring this great advice from some of his amazing clients.