Tying the knot is one of the most significant and exciting life events you may ever have, so planning every aspect is important. When you think about everything you'll have to do, you may feel overwhelmed. However, if you write down each step and cross it off as you go, the process will go much more smoothly. Here are some ideas to put on your wedding checklist.
Pick a Date
One of the first things you and your new fiance will have to decide on is a wedding date. Think about the type of weather you'd be most comfortable in. Summer weddings are beautiful, but the weather can be extremely hot and muggy, which will be extra uncomfortable when you're dressed up. A winter wedding may be something to consider if you love the snow, but remember that many of your guests may not be able to attend if there is a storm. Spring and fall have the mildest weather conditions overall, so it might be in your best interest to select a date in one of those seasons.
Also, before choosing a date, check out which weekday that date falls on. For example, if you want a wedding on April 14 but it's a Wednesday, you may want to reconsider as most people work on weekdays. A weekend date would be much easier for guests to make plans.
Once you have a date picked, consider purchasing bridal sets. Getting your rings early is one less thing you'll have to worry about.
Decide on a Budget
The size of your wedding depends on the amount of money you're willing to spend. If you want a big wedding with 300 guests, you should plan on making loan payments for a few years afterward. However, a smaller wedding can be pricey as well, depending on what services you're willing to pay for. The costs of everything involved in planning the wedding can add up quickly.
Nonetheless, your wedding is important, so you should proceed in whatever way you prefer. If you want a larger wedding but don't have the funds, you may want to postpone the celebration for six months or a year so you can save up for your dream ceremony.
Choose the Wedding Party
Decide who you want to be part of your wedding party. Do you have a best friend or sibling you'd like to include on your big day? The amount of people you ask is up to you, as it depends on how large you want the wedding party to be.
Don't be upset if you ask someone, but that person doesn't want to participate. Being part of a wedding party can be stressful and expensive. Additionally, some people don't have the time for an extra commitment, so don't take it personally.
Book Venues and Hire Vendors
If you want to take advantage of the total wedding experience, you'll have to start booking venues anywhere between six to nine months before your wedding date. Look into where you want to have the ceremony and reception, and talk to a DJ or band to figure out what type of music you prefer. Also, you'll want to find a great photographer or videographer to help you remember your special day.
If you don't know where to start in your quest for vendors, use a search engine to find what you're looking for. The internet can provide reviews and examples of a vendor's work to help you choose. Additionally, word of mouth is a great way to get reliable information.
Set up meetings with any vendors you take a liking to so you can figure out which service you prefer more. However, try to make the decision process as short as possible so you can book vendors before someone else snatches up their services.
Creating a wedding checklist will ensure you don't forget about any important aspects of the planning process. After you set up your to-do list, sit back, take a breath and get ready to prepare for the best day of your life.