Congratulations you are getting married! So, what are your first steps to preparing for the big day? We all know planning a wedding is not easy, every couple getting married wants their wedding day to be full of happiness and laughter. To ensure the day runs smoothly it is important for the wedding to be planned out properly. Whether you’ve decided to hire a wedding planner or going at it by yourself, we have put together a quick beginners guide to wedding planning, or wedding planning checklist to help plan your wedding, so you don’t miss out on anything important on one of the best days of your life.
1. Decide the date of your wedding
The first and most important step is deciding the proper date. Deciding whether you want a summer, spring or winter wedding or what time of year makes all the difference.
2. Venue Selection
Choosing a venue will usually depend on when you want your wedding to be and your personal preferences. Also, decide if you want to have the ceremony and reception at different places or not. Whether you decide to book a synagogue, church or banquet hall, it is all based on what your invasion and what your traditions are. You need to get your wedding spot booked as soon as possible because a lot of popular venues are booked months before the event and in order to avoid making a compromise on the time and venue of your wedding, get a hold of your wedding spot as soon as possible.
3. Make a guest list and send out the invites
Before you make a list of guests, know your budget and make sure the venue you chose can accommodate the number of guests. Take note of the plus ones that will come with your guests so you can adjust the seating of your guests. Once the guest list has been finalized, you can start planning your invitations. Look for inspiration online or you can have them customized design. Also, remember to send out the invites early so the guests have enough time to book any tickets they need to. Additionally, this is also a good time to decide who you want to make the best man and maid of honor, groomsmen and bridesmaids, ring bearer, flower girls, etc.
4. Start searching for DJs, wedding entertainment and photographer/videographer
In our opinion, this is the most important step! Make sure the DJ or entertainment you choose is available for the wedding day. It’s best to secure the date as soon as possible, waiting for the last moment will be hectic, having enough time to meet with your DJ to go over event timelines and music preference will give you peace of mind the day of your wedding! We truly believe the key to any successful event is the proper music selection! If your guest is on the dance floor having a great time, the positive energy will fill the room the entire night. Be proactive and decide on songs you both like beforehand, and definitely pick a song you both love so when it comes to the first dance it is a memorable one. When it comes to looking for a photographer, always book ahead! Oftentimes the good photographers book up quickly, so if you have your eye on one, don’t wait! Photography is a very personal thing and there are so many choices of styles out there. We advise you to look at photographer blogs or Instagram to get your inspiration. Make sure you get along with the photographer you choose since he will be with you thought the entire day!
5. Flowers, decorations, lighting, food planned, cake and theme down to the last detail.
Now that you’ve taken care of the date, venue, invitations, entertainment and photography, the next steps will begin to take more structure. Catering is another item to book as soon as you can. Having enough time to choose a delicious menu for your guests is always a plus. Always make sure the venue you choose, works with the catering you choose. Some caterers offer ideas and varieties of options, keep in mind if you’re doing an elegant sit-down 3-course meal or you’d rather do something more relaxed. Some offer bar services include, or may suggest a separate bar company. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your tastes! Now that catering is taken care of, we suggest making a list of all things left to do, flowers, cake, decorations, etc. this will help you stay focused on track and on a budget! Choosing a style or theme or color you want your wedding to have is important to pass onto vendors so they can work to achieve what you envious. It’s all in the details and personal style. When looking for a florist, we suggest asking family and friends for recommendations or look online for some ideas that catch your eye. Some couple decided to forgo flowers and use candles as centerpieces. Get excited about choosing a cake designer! Most designers offer cake tasting! Always consider flavor, size, and budget when choosing a cake of your dreams.
6. Wedding dress and suits/tux
Getting your wedding attire is going to be a task. You will want your gown to be perfect and comfortable so you don’t need to worry about tripping. Once you’ve got your heart set on the perfect dress, make sure to order it within enough time to allow for any customization and alterations. The same goes for the groom, make sure the suit or tux will complement your dress of course! Allow enough time for formal wear fittings. Consider purchasing matching accessories such as ties, bow ties, cuff-links, socks or pocket square. It’s all in the details.
7. ENJOY!
Now that your checklist has been made, the date has been set, the venue is booked, the guest list made, invitations printed and sent out, the DJ, photographer, catering, florist, cake and wedding attire have been taken care of, take a deep breath and enjoy the moment! We hope you find these tips useful in your preparation, and allows you plenty of time to achieve all your wedding day dreams stress-free! Wishing you and your partner a happily ever after!
Beginners Guide to Wedding Planning -Conclusion
Stay calm and follow this wedding planning checklist and hopefully, this will make your life easy.
We can help with music and wedding entertainment so call us at 949-394-2572.
