Preparing For Your Wedding Day: What You Should Do To Avoid Mistakes
Whether planning your wedding for the first time or having been through a few, you need many things to prepare for your big day.
For example, you’ll want to get a head count of your guests and confirm your wedding timeline with vendors. You should also assemble an emergency kit and give your wedding party a run-through of what to do if something happens.
Find Your Dream Gown
The search for your ideal wedding gown may take time and effort. After all, you’ve probably never tried one on before, and it’s the most costly item of clothing most women will ever possess, so the pressure is undoubtedly there while looking for a wedding dress. In addition, terms like tulle, A-line, fit-and-flare, organza, sheath, etc., seem like a whole new language that has to be understood. A more traditional dress for the ceremony and a more casual attire for the reception is becoming increasingly common among brides, which adds to shopping stress. No matter your timetable, personal style, or budget, shop bridal gowns according to what you want.
Plan The Logistics
It may be stressful to plan a wedding. You must consider everything from the wedding date to the location and ensure all the logistics are in place.
Your wedding transportation is one of the most important things to plan early in your wedding planning process. You want enough time to figure out how to get you, your wedding party, and your guests to the ceremony and reception on time.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options when it comes to wedding transportation. From planes to buses, you’ll find a wedding vehicle that fits your budget and taste. But it would be best to keep a few things in mind when planning your transportation.
Decide on a Budget
When it comes to the budget for your wedding, deciding what works best for you is essential. It will assist you in maintaining your goals and preventing debt.
Before planning, sit down with your partner and discuss what you feel comfortable spending. Then, set aside a specific percentage of your income to save for the event.
Then, make sure you factor in any contributions from your family and friends. They may be willing to pay for certain aspects of the wedding or offer you cash gifts that you can use toward your expenses.
Make a Guest List
Your guest list is one of the most important things to plan. It determines how many people you can invite to your wedding and how much money you must spend on it.
Start by brainstorming all the guests you want to have at your wedding. It should include your immediate family, BFFs, co-workers, and friends you rarely see.
Once you know how many people you can fit in, consider who you might want to include on the “maybe” list. It might consist of cousins, extended family, or even friends you’ve never spoken to in a while who you still love.
Book Your Photographer
Choosing a wedding photographer is an essential step in the planning process. It would be best if you are looking for a photographer that you can trust and who makes you feel at ease.
Finding a photographer that matches your style will make the process much easier. Start by listing photographers whose aesthetic jives with yours and look up their websites.
You can also check out their portfolios to better understand their style and approach.
Once you have a shortlist of a few photographers you think might be a good fit, contact them and ask about their availability on your wedding date and photography rates. Once they are available, set up an initial meeting or video call with them to see if you’d be comfortable working together!
Book Your Musicians
For many people, hiring musicians is an integral part of their wedding day. Music is something that everyone loves, and it can make any venue feel extra special!
Whether you’re looking for an acoustic soloist or a full band, it’s always best to start your search early.
Consider the music you want to hear when selecting musicians for your ceremony and cocktail hour. For example, some couples may enjoy classical harpists while others prefer jazzy swing bands.
Once you’ve chosen the musicians for your ceremony and cocktail hour, it’s time to book them! Ensure you ask about the time they need to set up and perform and any additional precautions they will need to take on your wedding day.
Start Sending Out Invitations
Sending wedding invitations is an essential part of the planning process. Not only are they a way to share the details of your big day, but they also help guests make travel and accommodation plans and give them time to RSVP. We recommend sending wedding invites between eight and 12 weeks before your big day. It gives your guests enough time to plan and book but only a little that they forget to respond.
Including a guest information card with your invitation is also helpful in informing guests about any special events, accommodations, and local attractions in the area. It is beneficial if your venue is far from home and will require guests to travel.