So here are the first five things that Jer and I did, they worked so far and hopefully they'll help you out with your wedding planning as well.
1. Relax This is the most amazing time of your lives. That is something Jer and I still tell each other. There will not be another time when the world stops to celebrate you as a couple. So relax and enjoy the moment. Things will work themselves out - whether it's selecting your bridal party, picking a venue or working on that darn budget - things will work themselves out. Which brings me to my next point.
2. Set the Budget And stick to it! The budget sets the scene for the wedding - it will help you with a variety of items, such as picking a venue, florist, band vs DJ, wedding cake, gown and more. If you know there are a few items that you are willing to go 'all out' on, then put an accurate number of what you are willing to spend for that item. The budget also will help you decide how many people are in your bridal party. The budget also helps with selecting a date. You can find savings by having your wedding on a Friday or Sunday as opposed to a Saturday Wedding. Also, May - June/September - November are the most popular in the Midwest, so you might want to consider an "off season" wedding - like January/February.
3. Set the Date So you are relaxed, you have your budget, now it is time to 'set the date.' This is an exciting part! Think about the time of year that best relates to you as a couple. Do you want an indoor/outdoor wedding. Consider family birthdays and holiday's as well.
4. Pick a Venue Keeping your relaxed state, budget in mind and your ideal date - you are now ready to pick a venue. Picking a venue can be the hardest or easiest part. I recommend making a list of 'must haves' and 'nice to haves.' For us, a 'must have' was that it needed to be downtown Chicago and have windows. A 'nice to have' was that it would be related to a cultural part of the city. Keep an open mind when you are looking at venues as well - we ended up going with the venue that I thought I wasn't going to like. Turns out, it was perfect. Also, ask the important questions when you are on a site visit - and GO on site visits. Definitely visit the venue before you book it. Some good questions to ask:
- What is included in the price?
- Do you offer discounts for Friday/Sunday weddings?
- What time do we get the space the day of our wedding?
- Do you do multiple events at the same time?
- Is a tasting included?
- Do we have to use a list of preferred vendors, i.e. florists, bakers, etc?
- Can we bring our own liquor or do we have to use a liquor package?
- Is there a room rental fee?
5. Pick your Bridal Party It is good to let those closest to you know that you would like them to be a part of your big day as early as possible. Especially the close friends and family that are out of town. When you are selecting your bridal party, traditionally you would fill the following roles:
- Maid of Honor
- Bridesmaids
- Best Man
- Groomsmen
- Flower Girl
- Ring Bearer
- Ushers
- Readers
Select your friends or family member that will help you and have supported you along your journey as a couple. And let them know formally - I sent out a cute arrangement of flowers to my bridesmaids to ask them to be in my wedding, it said, "Please say 'I do' to being my bridesmaid." It's a nice touch, but the ask doesn't have to be that formal. A phone call or lunch - but I recommend something personable.
Now you are on your way to the most amazing day of your life!!
No comments:
Post a Comment