You’ve gotten engaged to the love of your life, and now, the excitement of planning your big day can begin.
However, for young couples or those who may have large families, planning a wedding can cause a lot of stress. To help you keep your cool and have a big day you will remember, here are some simple tips to follow.
Discuss Your Vision
Do you want a bridal venue covered in rose petals, with a chandelier and a sweeping staircase? Or would you prefer to say your vows to each other in a forest?
It is all too easy to make your wedding what you think you want, or what you know your guests will like. However, it is your wedding day, so be sure to sit down and talk about what you want before you start anything else, as you need a starting point to work from.
Set a Budget
How much can you and your partner afford for the ceremony, the reception, the venue, and so on?
Many couples choose to divide the wedding budget between them, usually putting 50/50 on the caterers, the venue, and the DJ. Then, you can set some of your own money aside for your suit, your dress, or whatever you want to wear. Stick to the budget, and you will reduce the stress of planning a wedding by around 90%.
Plan your Guest List Early
Before you pick your venue, you need to draw up a guest list.
Why? It will give you an idea of how large the venue you select needs to be. Also, if you are having a wedding guest come from abroad, it will give you an idea of where you need the venue to be for easy transport from the airport.
Due to the cost of living, many couples are choosing to have smaller, intimate weddings, with only a few family and friends. This makes tensions less likely and allows you to enjoy time and activities with your guests, rather than whizzing around to talk to everyone at the reception.
Pick a Venue and Caterers
If you want to have a slightly larger wedding, aim to book the venue and the caterers at least six months before the wedding day. This will make sure that you get the date you want and will allow you ample time to plan everything.
In some cases, country venues and hotels will be able to host the wedding, the reception, and do the catering all in one package. If that sounds good, be sure to ask about it when looking for your dream venue, as it may work out cheaper.
Try and Have Fun with It
Planning a wedding is one of the most stressful events in a person’s life. Where you can, try to have fun with the process. Picking a wedding dress doesn’t have to be as dramatic as it is on “Say Yes To the Dress”. Work with your partner, your family, and friends to try to ease as much of the pressure as you can.
It’s your big day; make it all about you, enjoy it, and congratulations.
