Congratulations on your engagement! Now the fun part starts: planning your perfect day. Whilst this process is undoubtedly exciting, it can also be quite overwhelming, and we don’t want it to be! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps of how to plan a wedding, whilst keeping the process stress-free.
Define Your Vision
Before diving into the details, take some time to envision your dream wedding. Consider the atmosphere, theme, and overall vibe you want to create. Discuss your preferences with your partner, and make a list of priorities to guide your planning process. It can be helpful to create a mood board that represents your vision – perhaps use Pinterest for this!
Set a Budget
Establishing a realistic budget is crucial to ensure you don’t overspend. Create a comprehensive budget that includes all aspects of your wedding, such as venue, flowers, attire, decorations, and entertainment. It’s always a good idea to allocate a little part of that budget to any unexpected costs along the way.
Create a Timeline
Develop a timeline that outlines the key milestones leading up to your wedding day. Include tasks such as choosing a venue, sending out invitations, and selecting vendors. This timeline will help you stay organized and on track throughout the planning process.
Decide on your guests list
Create a list of guests you’d like to invite. Keep in mind the capacity of your chosen venue and your budget constraints. Prioritise inviting those closest to you and consider potential plus-ones based on your relationship with the guests. Think about whether you’d like to have all of your guests there all day, or some for the entire day and some just for the reception.
Choose a Date and Venue
Selecting a date and venue is one of the first major decisions you’ll make. Consider the season, weather, and the availability of your preferred venues. Once you’ve chosen a date, secure your venue to lock in your wedding day.
Build Your Team of Suppliers
Research and choose suppliers that will suit your vision. Think about a photographer, stylist, florist, entertainment etc. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and schedule meetings with potential vendors to discuss your vision and ensure they align with your expectations. We have our own recommended suppliers guide, filled with amazing locals who we know and trust.
Design Your Invitations
Design and send out invitations well in advance. Include all necessary details such as the date, time, location, and RSVP instructions. Some couples may even decide to create a wedding website for additional information and updates.
Clothing and Beauty
Start shopping for your wedding attire early to allow time for alterations. Consider the style and formality of your wedding when selecting your attire. Don’t forget about hair and makeup – schedule trials to ensure you feel like you’re in safe hands for the big day.
Plan the Ceremony and Reception
Work with your officiant to create a personalised ceremony. In the lead up to your wedding, you’ll be assigned one of our events managers. In your planning meeting you will discuss the flow of events for the reception, including speeches, dances, and any special rituals. Consider the layout and seating arrangements to optimize the guest experience.
Decorations and Details
Choose a theme or color scheme that complements your vision. Select decorations, centerpieces, and other details that enhance the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Pay attention to lighting, as it can significantly impact the atmosphere.
Finalise Details and Enjoy
In the weeks leading up to your wedding, finalise all details and confirm arrangements with vendors. Delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members to alleviate stress on the big day. Most importantly, take time to enjoy the process and celebrate the love you and your partner share.
We hope this guide has shown you the basics of how to plan a wedding. Remember to stay flexible, enjoy the journey, and savour every moment of this special time in your life. Cheers to a beautiful wedding day!