When couples begin searching for an Eastern Shore or Washington, DC wedding planner, they’re often looking for someone who can not only execute logistics flawlessly, but also guide them confidently through every decision along the way. SRS Events is known for exactly that, with thoughtful planning, clear communication, and a process built on trust.
I had the chance to communicate with Stephanie of SRS Events to discuss planning philosophy, budgeting pitfalls, timeline strategy, and what truly makes a wedding day feel seamless for couples.
Portrait of Stephanie by Molly Lichten
What Types of Couples and Weddings Does SRS Events Love to Plan?
SRS Events loves working with couples who trust the planning process and come in with a vision, while remaining open to expert guidance along the way.
“We love couples who have a vision and are excited to collaborate with us to bring it to life,” Stephanie shares. “That trust allows us to elevate ideas and create a wedding day that feels intentional and cohesive.”
This balance of vision and openness enables SRS Events to deliver weddings that feel both personal and polished!
A Thoughtful, Step-by-Step Wedding Planning Process
SRS Events approaches wedding planning with clarity and structure, guiding couples through each phase with intention.
The process begins with an initial consultation focused on the couple’s vision, priorities, and expectations. From there, a realistic budget is created, guest count is discussed, and the venue search begins.
Once the venue and date are secured, the team moves into booking the wedding day’s primary vendors, those who only take one event per day. Next comes the design phase, where florals, rentals, and the overall aesthetic of the day are thoughtfully developed.
Throughout the process, couples can expect regular touchpoints, including monthly check-in calls and in-person meetings. On the wedding day itself, Stephanie and her team are fully present to ensure everything unfolds flawlessly. This is priceless in my mind!
Portrait of Stephanie by Molly Lichten
A Common Budget Mistake Couples Don’t Realize Until It’s Too Late
One of the biggest surprises couples encounter involves hidden service charges and taxes, especially at hotels or venues where catering and bar services are included.
“Service charges are often around 22%, and in DC, that service charge is taxable,” Stephanie explains. “If couples don’t calculate these costs early, it can significantly impact the final budget.”
Understanding the true cost upfront helps couples avoid unexpected financial stress later in the planning process.
The #1 Key to a Stress-Free Wedding Day Timeline
Buffer time…everywhere.
SRS Events intentionally builds timelines with extra padding to prevent delays and unnecessary stress. For example, if hair and makeup truly needs to end at 1:30 PM, the schedule will reflect an earlier end time to allow for overages.
“Getting into your dress doesn’t take ten minutes; it takes at least thirty,” Stephanie notes. “And transition time, even when everything is on property, is often underestimated.”
Properly structuring the timeline, especially before the ceremony, is essential to keeping the day running smoothly.
How Couples Should Think About Wedding Budget Priorities
Budget priorities vary from couple to couple, and SRS Events believes there’s no single “right” answer.
“For some couples, food is the top priority. For others, florals, design, or the band matter most,” Stephanie shares. “It’s all about identifying what truly matters to you and allocating the budget accordingly.”
This personalized approach ensures couples feel confident in their decisions rather than boxed into expectations.
Wedding Trends That Feel Timeless
While trends come and go, Stephanie is consistently drawn to a garden-whimsy aesthetic, romantic, organic, and effortlessly elegant.
“Creating a whimsical, lush garden-inspired wedding is always a favorite! Especially if it is under a tent by the water!” she says.
What Makes a Vendor Team Amazing to Work With?
From a planner’s perspective, strong communication is everything.
“Waiting over a week for a reply isn’t acceptable,” Stephanie says. “I also always appreciate when vendors arrive ahead of schedule on the wedding day to get a head start.”
Responsiveness, professionalism, and preparedness are what elevate a vendor team from good to exceptional.
One Piece of Advice for Couples to Truly Enjoy Their Wedding Day
“Trust your vendor team, especially your planner or coordinator,” Stephanie shares. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Be present, soak it in, and enjoy it with your loved ones and your new husband or wife.”
Favorite Wedding Venues in Virginia & Washington, DC
Some of Stephanie’s favorite venues to work at include:
Each offers a timeless setting and a strong foundation for a beautifully executed wedding day.
Advice for Couples Who Want Amazing Photos and a Relaxed Day
“Hire an amazing team that you genuinely connect with,” Stephanie says. “That connection makes all the difference.”
Contact SRS Events
Couples planning weddings in Eastern Shore or in Washington, DC can connect with SRS Events here:
- Website: www.srs.events
- Email: stephanie@srs.events
- Instagram: @srs_events
Portrait of Stephanie by Molly Lichten
Thank you!
Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing such thoughtful insight and expertise. SRS Events has stood out to me for years, and I’m always drawn to the intentional planning and deep care shown for each couple.
Working with planners like Stephanie is exactly why I love what I do. As a Virginia & DC wedding photographer, I love collaborating with planners who prioritize clear communication, intentional timelines, and a seamless experience for couples from start to finish. When couples feel supported and present, the most meaningful images naturally follow.
If you’re planning a wedding on the Eastern Shore or in Washington, DC, I hope this spotlight was both helpful and inspiring. You can explore the rest of the Virginia & DC Wedding Planner Spotlight series for more planning insight, or connect directly with SRS Events to learn more about working together.
And if you’re looking for a wedding photographer who values thoughtful timelines, collaboration, and a seamless experience, I’d love to connect.