Steps to Getting Started!” Happy Planning!
1. Envision Your Dream Wedding
Before you announce to the entire world that you’re engaged and everyone assumes that they are invited to your wedding, we recommend that you sit down with your fiancé and discuss the date, time, size, formality and style of your wedding.
2. Prepare Your Planning Notebook
Remember, pictures tell a thousand words. You never know what item may inspire you for flowers, favors or any other wedding accessories. So when you see something you like, snap a picture of it or tear out the magazine page and put it into your newly purchased three ring binder w/ dividers and plastic tabs. This planning notebook will be your new best friend for the next several months!
We suggest including the following sections: Vendor Contact Information, Guests List, Bridal Ensemble, Bridesmaids' Attire, Beauty, Groomsmen's Attire, Ceremony, Reception, Invitations and Stationery, Menus and Beverages, Flowers and Décor, Guest Favors and Gifts, Rentals, Music and Entertainment, Photo and Video, Transportation and Parking, Miscellaneous, Checklists and Schedules, Invoices/Receipts, and Honeymoon Info. Don't forget an empty folder for photos and magazine clippings.
3. Put Together Your Preliminary Guest List
This is the most important party you’ll ever throw. What's a party without the guests? Remember that many of your guests will have a spouse or significant other and will count for two people. Also keep in mind that the more people you invite, the more expensive your wedding will be. For now, all you need to do is get a general idea of who you would like to see at your wedding celebration.
One smart planning tip is to have a "must-have" A-list, and a "would-like-to-include" B-list, and mail your invitations early. If A-list guests can't make it, you can then mail out invitations to B-list guests and they won't feel like last minute additions
4. Sit Down and Write Out Your Budget
The very thought of a wedding conjures up images of finery and elegance, music and dance, fun, frolic and lavish spreads. However, all the extravagance can really add up. So, whatever the size and style of the wedding, one cannot underestimate the importance of a wedding budget. If you don’t write down your budget at the beginning, you be shocked at all of the extra costs once the wedding is over. So take out that calculator, call up your folks and decide on a realistic budget. Getting started on the wedding budget, you need to determine who is paying for the wedding. If you’re having trouble figuring out who is going to flip the bill, check out our “Who Pays For What” page to give you a little insight. This is probably the hardest part of your wedding plans. Once you’re done ‘getting started’, you’ll want to check out all of the money-saving secrets and tips that we’ve compiled.
5. Select Your Date
Do you envision a thick blanket of snow outside as you snuggle close to your new husband on the way to the reception? Or a warm summer's night as you dance with your groom under the stars? Decide what time of year you want to get married and select two tentative wedding dates -- it's important to have a backup in case your first choice isn't available. Don't forget to check your city calendar to make sure there's not a holiday or major sporting event on your desired date.
6. Choose Your Ceremony and Reception Sites
Let your imagination run wild when selecting a wedding location. But remember, the best spot may be one that is nearby and can accommodate your guest count. You'll want to find out whether there are hidden fees and charges with each location.
7. Select Your Wedding Party
He/She’s been your best friend since kindergarten; it's a no-brainer that you want them to stand with you on your big day. But what about the others? Ask valued friends or family to do a reading, be an usher or oversee your guest book/escort card table. The point is, don't worry, there is a role to play for everyone.
8. Shop For THE Dress
Make sure you do a lot of browsing before buying that special gown. But be aware that most dress shops require a few months to order your dress. It’s also time to start that fitness program you’ve been telling yourself to begin for the past 3 years!
9. Book the Basics
Remember there are only 52 Saturdays in a year. That means the top wedding vendors and locations are going to be booked very early. Reception sites go the fastest, so make sure this (and the ceremony location) are the first things booked! As soon as you’ve agreed on the type of wedding you would like to have, get on the ball and book those vendors! Need help choosing the right florist, reception entertainment, caterer, etc….
10. Create Your Registry
This part is fun! Flock the stores for gift ideas and things your guests are going to want to buy for YOU! You’ll enjoy the convenience of viewing your registry and making changes any time. Also, this is the time to create your own wedding website to share your engagement stories, last minute wedding details, directions to and from your reception, and get the word out about your registry. It’s easy, simply answer a few questions, choose a few details, and it’ll be up and running in no time!
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