How to Plan a Wedding from a State Away: Tips from a North and South Dakota Wedding Planner
09.21.24 | Real Wedding: Kendra & Tresten
As a North and South Dakota wedding planner specializing in full-service events, I’ve had the privilege of bringing countless couples’ dream weddings to life in some of the state’s most breathtaking locations — from the Badlands, to Lake Metigoshe, to the shores of DL, to the majestic Black Hills. We guide our couples through every step of the planning process, ensuring no detail is overlooked and that their day is as seamless as it is beautiful.
Kendra and Tresten’s September wedding in the Black Hills was a perfect example of this! Planning a destination wedding in the Black Hills can feel daunting for couples coming from out-of-state, but with the right planning and local expertise, it’s completely stress-free. From arranging guest lodging in Spearfish or Deadwood to curating a trusted vendor team, my role as a North and South Dakota wedding planner is to make sure every detail is seamless — so couples can enjoy their day fully, no matter where they’re traveling from.
The venue
The Barn at Aspen Acres provided the most stunning canvas for this September wedding. Its clean lines, soaring windows, and views of the Black Hills set the tone for a day that felt both modern and timeless. White florals added a fresh contrast to the warm wood and wide-open space, while the natural light spilling into the barn made every moment glow. With logistics on their side, guests can stay onsite at the A-Frame, or in downtown Deadwood to keep the party goin’.
The experience
Guests traveling from out-of-state found staying at Deadwood’s downtown hotels convenient. We had shuttles arranged, with signs leading guests to the meeting point, and everything they needed was within reach.
How to Plan from Afar
Planning a wedding from out-of-state can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by choosing a venue that offers full-service support or is flexible with remote planning. Schedule virtual meetings with your planner and vendors to stay involved in the design, timeline, and vendor selections. Sharing inspiration boards and digital walkthroughs of the venue helps you feel connected to the space even before arrival.
Recommended Lodging for Guests
Consider hotels or rental properties near your venue to make it easy for guests to arrive and enjoy the celebration. For Black Hills weddings, options might include local hotels in Deadwood or Spearfish, airbnb links added to your website, or properties with onsite lodging like The Barn at Aspen Acres. Offering a block of rooms or providing a list of nearby accommodations ensures everyone has a comfortable stay without logistical headaches. Make sure your bridal party snags their rooms way in advance!
Transportation Tips (Airport, Party Bus, Shuttle Options)
Transportation is key when hosting a wedding in a scenic but spread-out area like the Black Hills. Arrange pickups for out-of-town guests and consider shuttles or a party bus for the wedding weekend. This keeps everyone together, ensures timely arrivals, and lets guests enjoy the weekend without worrying about driving.
Timeline Tips for Stress-Free Days
A well-planned timeline can make or break a wedding day, especially for destination weddings. Include buffer time for travel, hair and makeup, photos, and the ceremony. Communicate clearly with your planner and vendors so everyone knows where they need to be and when. A thoughtful timeline keeps the day calm and allows couples and guests to enjoy each moment fully.
From the very first conversation, it was clear that Kendra and Tresten wanted a wedding that felt relaxed, meaningful, and true to them. At The Barn at Aspen Acres, they were taken care of from the moment they woke up. My role was to keep the details running smoothly so they could be fully present — and watching their day unfold so seamlessly was an absolute privilege.
If you’re dreaming of a stress-free wedding planning experience in Bismarck or beyond, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life too! Book your consultation here.
The design
Kendra and Tresten’s September wedding in the Black Hills was the perfect celebration, right at the turn of the seasons. Josie with Simply Yours completely captured their vision! From mood board creation, to several Zoom calls talking through every last detail, they were in great hands with her team. I’ll just let the photos speak for themselves! As their planner, I guided them through the full-service planning process — from building their dream vendor team to managing every design detail and timeline. My greatest joy is allowing my couples to be fully present on their wedding day, and watching their vision come to life in the Black Hills this fall was truly an honor.
The vendor dream team
Officiant: Ryan (Tresten’s dad’s cousin) and Pastor
Reception Venue, Chairs, Tables, Security & Bar: The Barn at Aspen Acres
Photographer: Salt and Light
Videographer: 605 Media & Entertainment
Catering: Angel’s Catering
Dessert: Rustic Nook
Rehearsal Dinner: Jacobs Brewhouse
Florals/Design: Simply Yours
Hair: The Hair Garage
Makeup: Sunny Skincare & Beauty
Party Bus: DaBus
Day After Brunch: Deadwood Mountain Grand
Why Hire a Wedding Planner
1. Expertise with Venues and Vendors
A wedding planner knows the area’s venues, vendors, and hidden gems — from florists who thrive in the region’s climate to catering teams familiar with venue load-in and logistics. They can match your vision with the right professionals, saving you time and stress.
2. Managing Remote Planning Logistics
Planning from out-of-state comes with unique challenges. A planner can coordinate meetings, oversee deliveries, and communicate with vendors on your behalf. They act as your eyes and ears, ensuring your plans are executed exactly as you imagined.
3. Handling Unexpected Issues on the Day
Even the most carefully planned weddings can run into surprises — from last-minute weather changes to vendor delays. A wedding planner can troubleshoot instantly, keeping the day on track while you focus on celebrating. Their experience and familiarity with the area are invaluable for a smooth, stress-free wedding experience.
If you’re looking for a wedding planner in North or South Dakota to help you plan an unforgettable, stress-free day, we’d love to hear from you! Reach out to book your free consultation below.