The question was popped. You said yes. The bubbles were flowing, the congratulations pouring in, Pinterest boards created.. the big question arrives:
Where do we start?
To help couples take those first steps with confidence, we spoke with Stephen, Wedding Manager at Lawlor’s of Naas, who helps couples plan their dream day every week.
Here, Stephen shares his advice on how to begin your wedding planning journey — from attending wedding showcases to choosing the right suppliers.
Q: Stephen, couples often feel overwhelmed after getting engaged. What’s the first step you recommend?
“The excitement is huge at the start, but so is the amount of information out there. My advice is always the same — start by seeing venues in person, and ideally attend a wedding showcase.
A showcase lets you experience the venue as it would actually look on a wedding day. The ballroom is fully styled, tables are dressed, candles are lit, and you can really imagine your guests arriving and the day unfolding.”
Q: What exactly happens at a wedding showcase?
“A lot of couples think it’s just a quick viewing, but it’s much more than that.
At a showcase in Lawlor’s of Naas, the venue is set up exactly as it would be for a wedding celebration. You’ll see the ceremony spaces, drinks reception areas and the ballroom fully styled. There’s music playing, beautiful floral displays and usually a glass of prosecco waiting for you.
It helps couples move from simply seeing a room to actually imagining their wedding day taking place there.”
Q: Is it a chance to speak with the wedding team as well?
“Absolutely — and that’s one of the most valuable parts of attending.
Couples can chat with our wedding team about everything from dates and packages to menus and timelines. It’s also the perfect opportunity to ask those questions you’ve been saving in your phone notes.
We plan weddings every week, so we can help couples understand what works best and how the day typically flows.”
Q: Will couples meet suppliers at a showcase?
“At Lawlor’s of Naas, our focus during a showcase is on presenting the venue exactly as it could look and feel on your wedding day.
We collaborate with some of our trusted recommended suppliers to style the space, allowing couples to experience the setting without distraction. Afterwards, we’re always happy to connect couples with the suppliers involved so they can take the next step with confidence.”
Q: Why attend a showcase rather than a private viewing?
“A private viewing shows you the space — but a showcase lets you feel the atmosphere.
You get to experience the lighting, décor possibilities and how the room flows during a celebration. That’s something an empty ballroom simply can’t replicate.
For couples researching wedding venues, it’s incredibly helpful because you can compare venues not just on appearance, but on atmosphere, service and overall feeling.”
Q: Once a couple books their venue, what should they focus on next?
“Once the venue is secured, it’s time to build your team of suppliers.
I always suggest prioritising bookings for:
- Your celebrant or church
- Photographer and videographer
- Band or DJ
- Florist
- Wedding cake
Popular suppliers can book out very quickly, particularly for peak wedding dates.”
Q: How can couples know if a supplier is the right fit?
“Whenever possible, meet them in person or have a conversation with them. Chemistry really matters.
These are the people who will be part of your wedding day, so it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident with them.
At Lawlor’s of Naas, we also provide couples with a trusted supplier list. These are professionals who know the venue well, understand timings and work seamlessly with our in-house team.”
Q: Do wedding fairs still play a role in planning?
“Definitely. Wedding fairs are fantastic for inspiration.
Large events like The Wedding Show at the RDS bring hundreds of suppliers together in one place — from bridal boutiques and suit specialists to honeymoon providers and live bands.
They’re a great way to gather ideas and meet potential suppliers early in the planning process.”
Stephen’s Final Advice for Newly Engaged Couples
“Planning your wedding should feel exciting, not overwhelming.
Attending showcases, visiting venues and meeting trusted suppliers will help you move from inspiration to decisions much more easily.
When couples walk into the ballroom, see the room styled and imagine their first dance — that’s often the moment they know they’ve found the right venue. And once that happens, everything else begins to fall beautifully into place.”
Recently engaged?
Keep an eye on upcoming Wedding Showcase dates at Lawlor’s of Naas and begin your planning journey with confidence.
For enquiries or more information, contact our wedding team at weddings@lawlors.ie
