Follow my 5 tips to planning your own wedding to stay above all the stresses and craziness of all things wedding.
1. Start Pinteresting
Create a Pinterest account to collate different ideas and inspiration that you take a liking to. Organise into separate boards so it is easy to find/show someone your inspiration. E.g. Ceremony, Reception, Centrepieces, Bouquets etc.
By creating these boards and looking back on them you can generally see a pattern in the certain aspects of a wedding that you love. Also it is easier to show your vendors pictures of your inspiration rather than trying to explain it. (Planners, Florists, Photographers, etc)
2. Create a budget (and stick to it!)
Weddings can be extremely expensive and can get seriously out of hand when you don’t keep to your budget!
Firstly, work out how much you are willing to spend on your wedding. Secondly, can you afford it? Do you need a longer engagement to save the money, or are your parents chipping in? These questions need to be answered before you start planning your wedding.
If other parties are willing to help pay, organise a chat with them regarding how much they are willing to pay. Or perhaps delegate certain aspects of the wedding each party can pay for. E.g. Reception catering, bar tab, etc.
Once a plan of attack has been made create a budget spreadsheet and keep those (if any) helping pay for your wedding updated with expenses. This will avoid any surprise payments at the last minute.
3. Create a master to-do list
Create a master to-do list with timelines in when these tasks need to be completed. Keep adding you this list when vendor invoices have been received so you can add a ‘Due Date’ section to keep on top of bills.
By creating an organised list can keep you on track when planning your wedding and if you stick to it your planning experience will be a lot less stressful.
4. Get the bridal party involved
Delegate tasks from your master to-do list to your bridesmaids. They are there to help and support you through this time. That’s why they said ‘Yes’ 😉
Trust me, your girls want to help. Even if it’s just small tasks like picking up the dresses or shopping around to find bridal jewellery or shoes. This will make your life a lot easier … and honestly tell me who doesn’t love shopping!
Another thing to try if you’re having a DIY wedding get your girls around one night for a girls night in and put together your centerpieces or invitations. These nights can be a lot of fun, make a day of it!
5. Don’t wait until the last minute
Please, please, please! Do not wait until the last minute to book/plan things. If you and your partner are wanting your wedding the way YOU want leaving it to the last minute will make it difficult to get the aspects and details of your wedding perfect.
Most vendors are generally booked out a year in advanced especially in popular months (Autumn, Spring). So, if you are wanting a particular business to assist you with your special day you will need to meet and book asap. Under a short time frame, planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful and can put a dampener on the day.
By following my 5 tips above you will be well on your way to planning to greatest day of your life. Just remember … Organisation = Perfect Wedding.
Now you’re all set let’s get planning!!! YAY. Happy planning, Janette xx
Written by Janette Newell I Olive Rose Weddings & Events