Sunday, September 22, 2013

Make your list, check it twice

On many occasions, brides become overwhelmed, stressed out and panicked, especially if they are planning their wedding themselves. Hiring a wedding planner eases that stress as they know all the guidelines, lists, all the do's & don't a bride may forget. Here are a few tips and guidelines that will ease the tension of planning your wedding. 





So you're engaged. Congratulations,  Purchase a wedding organizer or have a dedicated folder/binder or book. Keep all your notes, even magazine clippings of ideas. You've chosen a date. Always have a backup date especially if you already have a venue in mind. Lots of venues get booked way in advanced. If the date is of a sentimental nature and you're not willing to change it. Have an open mind to try lots of venues. Discuss your budget amongst your fiance and both sets of parents, always know before hand what you are willing to spend that you can know what options you have.

Decide on your wedding party, or at least your maid/matron of honor and how many bridesmaids you'll be having. Ask them in person, then follow up with a nice, Will you be my Bridesmaid card.

Decide on how many guests you're planning on having. Remember how many guests is what generally determines your wedding budget. Create a database of potential guests and start gathering addresses as soon as possible it makes it easier when its time to start sending out invitations.

Choose a theme or color scheme and style of your wedding. "Fun, modern, traditional"; Indoor or Outdoor. Decide if you are having the ceremony and reception at the same location or doing a traditional religious site then off to reception. If your ceremony and reception are different locations, please ensure there is not too long of a distance between them and have directions available for your guests. Choosing an escort car from ceremony site to reception is also an idea.

After deciding on what type of wedding you're having then you can start researching wedding vendors. Photographers; Videographers; Band or DJ; Florists; Officiant; Cake designer; etc.

Start calling venues to make appointments to look over the space. Key questions to ask when researching venues. Do they have a standard wedding package, what is the maximum capacity for sit down dinner or cocktail party. Is there a dedicated room for ceremony, is there a bridal suite. Do you do your own catering, can I bring my own. Will you cut up and serve my wedding cake. Do you have a stage and dance floor. Find out if you can have a copy of their floor plan.

Start looking for your wedding gown well in advance many boutiques require at least 6 months for custom orders. Choose styles for wedding party. Also give your wedding party enough time to purchase their gowns.

Choose save the date cards, invitation and coordinating wedding stationery. Decide if you will be using the same stationer for your programs, menu cards, place cards, thank you cards etc. 

After sending your invitations, and receiving RSVP. Put together your confirmed attendees and finalize your total head-count. Make your seating plan making sure families are seated together. Have elderly guests seated away from dance floors, speakers and younger guests. If your wedding will include children decide if they will sit with their parents or will have a dedicated table or room with an attendant.

Stay tuned for other tips and Idea. Happy Planning 


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