Planning a wedding is an exciting activity but comes with challenges. You want to get these right.
Of course, no two couples will do exactly the same as any other. One thing you’re likely to need to do is to set a budget (and agree who will be on the decision-making team).
Questions to Consider
Are you going to plan the event yourself, do some of it (perhaps in tandem with someone else) or take professional help?
What do you want to include on the day? This can range from what drinks to offer (straight after the ceremony) to hiring a band.
What sort of ceremony will you choose? Church, registrar or celebrant?
How many guests will you invite (and who might they be?)?
What date do you want? Unless you have a specific landmark date in mind, be flexible. Some days are more popular (and expensive) than others.
Actions
You need to get cracking with bookings, as some suppliers get booked up well in advance.
Priorities normally are:
- The Church or Register Office
- The wedding venue
- Caterers (if you’re having any)
- Wedding Planner (ditto)
Next you may consider:
- A civil celebrant
- Clothes supplier
- Photographer/videographer
- Florist
- Entertainment
- Transport to/from the venue
- Make-up artist
- Hairdresser
With all suppliers, do your homework, where possible. Check for recommendations, use websites and make in-person visits, if you can. You must be confident that they can do what you require.
You may be able to do all this in a matter of weeks, but, realistically, you should start planning at least a year before your big day.
Hopefully, this can suffice for starters. If you want more advice, just contact me.
A great guide (OK, I am the author!) is “Your Wedding Guide”, available on Amazon. It takes you right through this process in much more detail – and costs (currently) less than a fiver!
Main photo: Matt Penberthy