If you’re reading this, chances are you’re in the process of planning a wedding. And if you’re in the process of planning a wedding, chances are you’re feeling a little (or a lot) overwhelmed right about now. There’s so much to do and so many decisions to make!
But don’t worry. In this blog post, you’ll learn everything you need to do to plan the perfect wedding from start to finish. So pour yourself a glass of wine, put your feet up, and let’s get started
Step 1: Set a Budget
One of the first things you need to do when planning your wedding is set a budget. This will help determine the overall scope and scale of the wedding and make sure you stay on track financially. Keep in mind that the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,391, so it’s essential to be realistic about what you can afford.
Wedding costs can quickly add up, so creating a line-item budget breakdown is essential to keep track of all the expenses. Once you have your budget nailed down, it will be much easier to move on to the next steps in the planning process.
Step 2: Choose Your Date and Venue
The date and venue are two of the most important aspects of any wedding. The date will not only determine when the wedding will occur, but it can also affect your venue and vendor availability. If you’re choosing a date, try giving yourself at least 6-12 months’ notice, so you have plenty of time to plan and book everything.
Deciding on the kind of venue is also essential before making any decisions. When it comes to wedding venues, there are many different options to choose from, and each comes with its own concerns. For instance, one popular option is outdoor event venues. Outdoor event venues can be an excellent choice for couples who want a unique and scenic setting for their wedding.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an outdoor event venue. First, make sure to check the weather forecast in advance and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Second, consider the venue’s amenities and whether they will be able to accommodate enough guests. Lastly, consider the time of day you or the couple will be getting married and whether the venue will have enough lighting for the ceremony and reception.
Once you know what kind of venue you’re looking for, start searching early because popular venues book up fast. If you’re having trouble finding a venue that fits both your budget and your vision, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional wedding planner or coordinator who can help with the search.
Step 3: Book Your Vendors
Your choice of vendors can make or break your wedding day, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Start by listing all the vendors you’ll need for the big day. Photographers, caterers, florists, and bakers all play a vital role in making the event perfect.
Photographers should be able to capture the day’s emotions and the setting’s beauty, so look for photographers with a tasteful style and a good reputation. Caterers are responsible for making sure everyone enjoys the food at the reception. Hence, it’s essential to choose a caterer with experience in creating menu selections that will please all palates.
Florists play an essential role in creating the overall atmosphere of the wedding, so it’s crucial to find a florist with a pleasing and appropriate aesthetic. Be sure to ask about their experience working with weddings. Bakers should be able to create beautiful and delicious wedding cakes that will make a lasting impression on the guests. Again, look for bakers with experience in creating wedding cakes, and be sure to ask to see photos of their previous work.
Once you know what vendors you need, research online or ask friends for recommendations. Once you have a shortlist of potential vendors, reach out and request pricing info and availability for your chosen date. Then it’s just a matter of comparing prices and reviews before making a final decision.
When booking vendors, remember that many require deposits upfront, so it’s crucial to have your budget set before reaching out to anyone. Also, remember that popular vendors book up fast (sometimes 12-18 months in advance), so try not to wait too long before locking them down. And don’t forget to sign contracts with all your vendors! This may seem an obvious step, but people often overlook it in all the excitement and then regret it later.
Congrats—you’ve made it through all the steps! By following this guide (and taking some deep breaths along the way), you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect wedding. Just remember to enjoy the ride!
