Things to Consider While Planning Your Wedding

Planning a wedding involves making a wide range of decisions and coordinating many different details. From setting a budget and choosing a venue, to selecting a wedding party and booking vendors, it’s important to carefully plan each aspect of your big day. In this article I will share some some things to consider while planning your wedding.

Set a budget

It’s so important to understand options and expenses. Research the cost of the venue, catering, attire, photography, flowers, music, transport, and other expenses so you can make more informed decisions. Once you understand the cost of the standard of services you’re drawn to, determine your wedding budget. A budget helps you prioritise and allocate funds for important elements. I do suggest, just in case; you set aside money for unexpected expenses that may arise during planning. Who knows, you might decide to buy your parents a museum grade wedding album 🙂

Pick a date

The date of your wedding can significantly impact the overall atmosphere and feel of your big day. When selecting a date, consider the time of year and the potential impact that might have on your celebrations. For example, it rains a lot less in August and a lot more in January.

If photos are important (let’s face it, they are!) skies are often more colourful around sunset in the winter months. Depending on the style of your photographer, this can add to the aesthetic appeal of your photos. The sun also tracks lower in the sky during the winter, which reduces the appearance of unflattering shadows on faces. Additionally, wedding attire, such as suits and dresses, may be more comfortable to wear in cooler months.

On the other hand, summer has the advantage of longer daylight hours. This can allow for more flexibility in scheduling outdoor events and activities.

It’s also important to check that your chosen date doesn’t conflict with other events that could impact your wedding. There’s nothing worse that discovering on the day that there’s unexpected traffic that’s considerably reducing the amount of time you have for photos.

Choosing a date that holds special meaning (such as the anniversary of your first date) can also make your wedding day even more memorable.

Don’t forget to also take the season into account when choosing your date, as this can impact the availability of certain venues.

Where Should We Marry?

The location of your wedding is very important. It sets the overall tone and mood for the event. You should choose a venue that reflects your personal style and personality. When selecting a location, there are several factors to consider. This includes the size of your guest list, the desired atmosphere (e.g. formal, casual, rustic), and the location (e.g. city, countryside, beach). Logistical considerations, such as parking and accommodation for out-of-town guests, are also important to keep in mind. The venue should be able to accommodate all of your guests comfortably and provide the necessary facilities for your ceremony and/or reception, as well as offering high-quality food prepared by a skilled chef and served by caring and hospitable staff. By considering all of these factors, you can find a venue that will create the perfect setting for your special day.

Selecting the bridal party

Not every couple chooses to have a bridal party, but it’s still a very popular tradition. The wedding party typically includes the best man, maid (or matron) of honour, bridesmaids, and groomsmen. Choose people who are important to you and who you know will be supportive throughout the planning process. Make sure to ask them well in advance so they can plan accordingly. The wedding party plays a special role in your wedding day, standing by your side as you exchange vows and celebrate with your friends and family. Choose people who you know will be there for you and support you throughout the planning process.

I’ll share one more piece of advice regarding your bridal party and whom you choose to celebrate the day along side you.

When it comes to selecting a bridal party, it’s important to choose people who you think will be close to you for the long haul. After all, these are the individuals who will be by your side on one of the most important days of your life and will be featured in many of your wedding photos. While it’s natural to want to include all of your closest friends in this special role, it’s important to consider whether or not these friendships will stand the test of time. Looking back on your wedding photos years down the road should bring feelings of joy and nostalgia, not negative memories of relationships that have since turned sour. Choosing a bridal party is a personal decision, but it’s one that should be made with care and consideration for the future.

I mention this as I’ve had multiple brides request that I “photoshop out” members from the bridal party because relationships have since ended. As this request is usually not possible to grant without it looking terribly fake and noticeably edited, my prefered option is to create awareness beforehand and do my best to help couples prevent that situation from ever arising.

Choose a theme or colour scheme

A theme or colour scheme can help bring cohesiveness to all the different elements of your wedding, from the invitations and décor to the attire and favours. Consider your personal style, the style of your venue, and the time of year when selecting a theme or colour scheme. A consistent theme or colour scheme can help tie all of the elements of your wedding together and create a cohesive look and feel. This can be as simple as choosing a specific colour palette or as elaborate as selecting a specific theme, such as a vintage or beach-themed wedding.

Book vendors

Start by securing a photographer and a videographer, as these professionals tend to book up quickly. You’ll also want to book a florist, baker, and DJ or band, as well as any rental companies you may need (e.g. chair rentals, linens, lighting). Make sure to read reviews and ask for references before booking any vendors. It’s important to book your vendors early to ensure that you have the professionals you want on your wedding day. Don’t forget to also read reviews and ask for references before booking any vendors to ensure that you are hiring professionals that are reputable and capable of delivering the services you desire.

Plan the ceremony

• Decide on the overall tone and style of the ceremony (e.g. traditional, modern, casual).
• Consider the logistics of the ceremony location, such as the availability of seating and parking for guests.
• Make a timeline for the ceremony to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
• Choose an officiant or religious leader who is meaningful to you and who is able to perform the type of ceremony you want (e.g. civil, religious).
• Select meaningful readings or music that reflect your relationship and values.
• Consider incorporating personal or cultural traditions into the ceremony to add depth and significance.
• Don’t forget to obtain any necessary permits or licenses for the ceremony.
• If you want to make the ceremony even more personal, consider writing your own vows. This can be a special and meaningful way to express your love and commitment to your partner.
• Plan for any potential contingencies, such as inclement weather or technical issues.
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities to trusted friends or family members to help alleviate some of the planning burden like asking someone to take care of the wedding music for the procession.

Plan the reception

The reception is often the most anticipated part of the wedding, so it’s important to put some thought into the details. Consider the type of reception you want (e.g. sit-down dinner, buffet, cocktail party), the entertainment (e.g. DJ, band, photo-booth), and the type of music you want to have. You’ll also need to decide on the menu, the cake, and any other details such as favours or a seating chart. The reception is a time for you and your guests to celebrate your marriage and enjoy each other’s company, so it’s important to plan a celebration that reflects your style and personalities. Don’t forget to also consider the needs of your guests, such as providing ample seating and ensuring that there is a wide variety of food and drinks available.

Choose your attire

Decide on the wedding dress, tuxedos or suits, and accessories for the wedding party. Consider the style of your wedding, the venue, and the weather when choosing your attire. Make sure to allow enough time for fittings and alterations. The wedding attire is an important element of your big day, as it helps to set the tone and style of your wedding. Be sure to allow enough time for fittings and alterations to ensure that your attire is perfect for your big day. Don’t forget to also consider the style of your wedding, the venue, and the weather when choosing your attire to ensure that it is appropriate and comfortable for the occasion.

Send out invitations

Be sure to give your guests plenty of notice and include all the necessary information (e.g. date, time, location, dress code). It’s also a good idea to set up a wedding website where guests can find additional information and RSVP. Consider the formality of your wedding and the personalities of your guests when selecting the design and wording of your invitations. Sending out invitations is an important step in the wedding planning process, as it helps to ensure that all of your guests have all of the necessary information for your big day. Don’t forget to also consider the formality of your wedding and the personalities of your guests when selecting the design and wording of your invitations to ensure that they are appropriate and reflective of your wedding style.

Here are some other things to Consider While Planning Your Wedding

…

Transport

Something that shouldn’t be overlooked is transportation. Not only is it important to consider how the bridal party will arrive at the ceremony and reception, but it’s also essential to think about how you will get to and from various locations for post-ceremony photos. If you’re planning on taking photos at a separate location you’ll need to arrange transportation for the bridal party as well as yourselves if you’d like them to join you. Whether you choose to hire a professional driver or simply designate member of the bridal party to chauffeur everyone around, it’s important to have a reliable and safe transportation plan in place. This will allow you to relax and focus on enjoying your special day without having to worry about logistics.

At the end of the night, it’s also a good idea to have a plan in place for guests who may have had too much to drink or live far from the venue. Providing a shuttle service to help ensure that everyone gets home safely. Investing in transportation may seem like an added expense, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind and safety of your loved ones on your special day.

Enjoy your day and have fun!

Planning a wedding can be a stressful and overwhelming process, but it’s important to remember to enjoy the celebration on the actual day. All the hard work and preparation will be for nothing if you don’t make the decision to have a good time and fully embrace the joy of the occasion. To ensure that you can fully relax and savour the experience, it’s essential to line up all the necessary details and choose experienced professionals to handle the formalities. This way, you can focus on having the time of your lives and celebrating with your loved ones, rather than stressing about logistics. By taking care of the logistical details and inviting experienced and passionate vendors to assist you, you can have peace of mind and focus on enjoying your special day.

It’ll all pay off

By following these steps and keeping your vision in mind, you can create a beautiful and memorable wedding that truly reflects your style and personality. Don’t forget to also take the time to enjoy the planning process and the lead up to your special day. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s important to savour every moment. With careful planning and attention to detail, your wedding will be a truly unforgettable celebration that you and your loved ones will cherish for years to come.

Home