So you just got engaged—cue the champagne, happy tears, and an endless loop of staring at your left hand. Whether your proposal happened on a mountaintop, in your living room, or somewhere in between, you’re probably wondering: What now?
Welcome to wedding planning. It’s part Pinterest dreams, part logistics puzzle—and luckily, if you’ve chosen Founders Grove Garden Venue in Magnolia, New Jersey, you’re already ahead of the game. With its lush gardens, charming architecture, and intimate vibe, Founders Grove is the kind of place that makes wedding planning feel fun.
Here’s your month-by-month guide to getting from “Yes!” to “I do,” Founders Grove style.
Right After the Engagement (0–1 Month): Soak It In
First things first: take a deep breath. Take planning in phases and find your seasoned professionals so you can avoid stress.
Celebrate along the way!
- Share the news: Host a low-key engagement party in your backyard—or go fancy and rent out Founders Grove’s courtyard space for a romantic night under the twinkle lights.
- Get your ring insured: Seriously, do it.
- Start dreaming: Have an open-ended convo with your partner about what kind of wedding you both envision. Do you want a full garden party vibe? An autumn soirée with cozy textures and string lights? Founders Grove can flex either way.
This is your no-pressure planning zone. Enjoy it!
12+ Months Before: Secure Your Venue + Vision
This is when things start getting real—especially if you’re eyeing a prime date at a popular venue like Founders Grove.
Your To-Dos:
- Create a rough guest list: Founders Grove is perfect for intimate weddings and mid-size celebrations (think up to around 150 guests), so this will help narrow things down.
- Set a budget: Magnolia, NJ offers more affordability than bigger cities, but it’s still smart to know where your dollars are going.
- Tour Founders Grove and lock in your date: Trust us—seeing the gardens in person is a game-changer.
- Consider hiring a local planner: While Founders Grove has a list of trusted preferred vendors, a planner can help coordinate the little stuff (like making sure the florals don’t clash with the ivy-covered gazebo).
Once your date is booked, it all starts falling into place.
9-12 Months Before: Book the Core Vendors
With your venue secured, it’s time to lock in the other major players.
Your To-Dos:
- Photographer/Videographer: Founders Grove’s natural light and greenery look stunning on film, so go with someone who knows how to capture it.
- Caterer: While the venue gives you freedom to choose your own, local favorites like DiBartolo’s Bakery or Feastivities Events come highly recommended.
- DJ or band: There’s something magical about dancing under the stars in the courtyard—make sure your music pro knows how to read the crowd.
- Say yes to the dress (or suit): Allow time for alterations. South Jersey has some great bridal shops nearby, like The Wedding Shoppe in Berwyn or Bridal Manor in Pennsauken.
Planning tip: Ask your vendors if they’ve worked at Founders Grove before—it’s a bonus if they’re already familiar with the flow of the space.
7-8 Months Before: Personalize It
Time to add your stamp to this wedding.
Your To-Dos:
- Choose your wedding party: Let your favorite people know they’re standing by your side.
- Book your officiant: If you’re going with a friend or relative, check New Jersey’s requirements for officiants.
- Plan your theme or aesthetic: Want whimsical garden romance? Boho chic with pampas grass and lanterns? Founders Grove’s natural backdrop makes just about any theme shine.
- Think about accommodations: Founders Grove is a short drive from Cherry Hill and Philadelphia, where guests can find hotels and Airbnbs easily. See our list of nearby hotels.
This is a good time to start building your wedding website and registry too.
6-7 Months Before: Design and Décor
This is the fun part—where your vision starts taking shape.
Your To-Dos:
- Book a florist: Magnolia and South Jersey are full of local florists who know how to work with Founders Grove’s organic vibe. Go for seasonal blooms to keep it local and eco-friendly.
- Order your invitations: Tie your stationery design into the venue’s look—florals, ivy, woodgrain textures, etc.
- Schedule hair and makeup trials: Bonus points if you can do them on-site at Founders Grove to test lighting and space.
- Plan for rentals: While Founders Grove includes many key elements, you might want to bring in specialty furniture, vintage lounge setups, or custom arches.
And if you haven’t already, start taste-testing cake. (No one regrets this part.)
4–6 Months Before: Down to Details
You’re halfway there—and everything’s starting to feel real.
- Send Save-the-Dates: Especially if your date is during busy seasons like spring or fall.
- Book transportation: If your ceremony and reception are both at Founders Grove (which we love), you might not need much—maybe just shuttles for out-of-towners.
- Confirm catering menu: Finalize courses and bar selections.
- Confirm Bar Choices with Founders Team
- Ceremony details: Will you say “I do” under the pergola? Talk with your officiant to confirm the flow of ceremony. Also confirm your rain plan if outside is your first choice.
Start working on those vows, too—especially if you’re writing your own.
2–4 Months Before: Final Touches
This is where everything comes together.
Your To-Dos:
- Mail invitations: Include clear directions, suggest garden party shoes and include your scheduled transportation plan for guests.
- Start your seating chart: The venue’s layout makes both round and long tables feel intimate and stylish.
- Get your marriage license: New Jersey requires a 72-hour waiting period, so time it right.
You’re in the home stretch—take a inhale and trust the process.
1 Month Before: Countdown Mode
Crunch time, but you’ve got this.
Your To-Dos:
- Final fittings for wedding attire
- Confirm headcount with caterer & Bar Team
- Children: Let caterer know if you need high chairs or anything for kids
- Create a day-of schedule: Founders Grove’s team can help coordinate timing for ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception flow.
- Make a rain plan (just in case): Founders Grove has you covered.
Delegate as much as you can now. Your job is to enjoy the ride.
1 Week Before: Wedding Week!
It’s almost go-time.
The Excitement Check list
- Pack your wedding day bag: pretty robe, phone charger, tissues, perfume and comfy shoes.
- Coordinate a Drop off time of final items at the venue: Think welcome signs, Escort cards, Bar signs, guest book, favors, or anything else you’re providing.
If you’re honeymooning right after—don’t forget to pack!
Wedding Day at Founders Grove: It’s Here!
The gardens are in bloom. The string lights are glowing. You’re surrounded by your people. It’s everything you imagined—and more.
Tips for Bliss:
- Eat breakfast.
- Soak in the moments.
- Stay present.
- Dance under the stars.
- Say “I do.”
Founders Grove was designed for magical, effortless weddings—so let the venue do its thing while you do yours: marrying your best friend.
After the Wedding: The Wind-Down
- Send thank-you notes
- Review your vendors
- Start your next chapter
- Founders Grove hosts Chef dinners and special events too. You’re part of the family now.
Thinking about tying the knot at Founders Grove? Schedule a tour, start envisioning your wedding day right here in South Jersey at our hidden gem in Magnolia, NJ.
