TAKE OUR ADVICE
We've compiled what we think is a pretty awesome list of advice for getting started.
Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the planning process. Your wedding day will pass by before you know it, take time to bask in your surroundings and taking in all your hard work, and the joy and emotion of the event.
SELECTING A DATE
Now that you have shared the news with everyone it is time to select a date. It is best to come up with a preferred date as well as a few alternatives.
CEREMONY
You can start planning your ceremony by searching for either the site or the officiant. To save money, look into the cost of exchanging your vows at the reception venue.
CEREMONY SEATING SCENARIOS
Different religions have different seating scenarios, however seating should be balanced if either the bride or groom has more guests than the other.
RINGS
If you are including a ring bearer, have the best man and maid of honor hold onto the actual rings and fasten pretty substitutes onto the ring bearer's pillow.
RECEPTION
Before you begin investigating sites you will want to have a good idea of how many guests you will have and your budget. The type of reception you want is also important to keep in mind when looking for a venue; cocktail, brunch, lunch or seated dinner are all options.
SITE - VENUE CONSIDERATIONS
Does the style and the space match the desired style and mood? Does the decor coordinate with your color scheme? What are the views like?
RENTAL ITEMS
Whether your reception will take place at a venue or home you are bound to need some type of rental items. Your site coordinator can be a good resource to help gauge how many of each piece you will need.
CAKE
You want to make sure what you potentially have smashed in your face actually tastes good. It is a good idea to sample the work and see images of both a complete cake and a plated slice.
INVITATIONS
The first impression that guests will receive of your wedding will come from the invitations. You will want your invitations to reflect the tone and style of your wedding. You should have your invitations at least a month before the date that you plan to send them.
THE DRESS
This is the one ensemble that you will probably remember for the rest of your life and more than likely the most expensive one you will ever purchase. Before looking at anything make sure you clearly state you budget, you do not want to fall in love with gown that is completely out of your price range.
BRIDEMAID'S ATTIRE
When selecting your bridesmaid dresses be sure to be mindful of your style and theme. Consider choosing a color or a fabric and then letting each maid pick a style that will suit her.
GROOM AND GROOMSMEN'S ATTIRE
The type of attire that the groom and groomsmen wear is usually influenced by the time of day of the wedding and the formality.
BEAUTY
All eyes will be focused on you, so you will want to make sure that your hair and makeup can stand up to all the attention and activity. Don’t forget about you nails, everyone will be asking to see your ring.
MUSIC
Music is one of the most important parts of your wedding ceremony and reception. Ceremony music can consist of purely instrumental or feature vocals. Reception music is typically provided by a band or disc jockey.
FLOWERS
Flowers play many roles at a wedding, room decorations, personal accessories, and favors for your guests. When making your flower selection be sure to consider which blooms will be in season, this can be a large cost savings.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The photographer you choose should have a clear vision of what you like, whether candid or formal shots or a combination of both. A good way to get a feel of a photographer is to schedule a sitting for engagement photos.
FAVORS
A way to say thank you to your guests for sharing in your special day. Consider tying the favor into the theme of the wedding, season, locale, or heritage. Typically, each favor includes a notion of the couple’s names and date of the wedding.
REHEARSAL DINNER
The rehearsal dinner is a way for you to thank all those involved in the planning and prep of your big day and celebrate your last evening before you become husband and wife. Depending on size, you can choose to hold the event at the host’s home or a restaurant.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
You will want to find a hotel that is comfortable, but not overly expensive and is conveniently located near the ceremony and reception site. You can further help your guest by arranging a held block of rooms at a reduced rate.
GIFT GIVING
It is customary to give gifts to your attendants to thank them for their help and support. In addition, many brides and grooms choose to give gifts to each set of parents, and sometimes each other.
GRATUITIES
There are a number of vendors that go into your making wedding day. It is nice to extend your appreciation of their services by extending a gratuity to them.