A Wedding In Five Days: Our Story

Planning a wedding in five days is no easy feat. From the venue to the food, there are a lot of elements to consider and organise. In this article, I will take you through the steps I took to plan my wedding in such a short time frame, including how I managed to secure a venue, caterers, a dress and more.

Choosing a wedding dress

One option is to buy a top and a skirt separately, which is what Emily Hardman did when she planned her wedding in five days. She bought a $10 top from the mall and her mother sewed a skirt to match. This is a great way to save money and time, as you can find a top that you like in any store and then have a skirt custom-made to match.

If you don't have time to have a skirt made, you could also try looking for a dress online. There are many websites that offer a wide range of wedding dresses, and you can often find dresses that are unique and affordable. Just be sure to check the return policy in case the dress doesn't fit or isn't what you expected.

Another option is to borrow a dress from a friend or family member. This can be a great way to save money and time, as you won't have to worry about finding a dress that fits your budget or your style. Just be sure to ask the person if they're comfortable with you borrowing the dress, and be sure to take good care of it.

Finally, if you're really short on time, you could consider buying a ready-to-wear dress from a store. Many stores offer a selection of wedding dresses that are already made and ready to be purchased. This can be a great option if you don't have time to wait for a dress to be made or shipped. Just be sure to try on the dress in person to make sure it fits and flatters your figure.

Venue

When it comes to the venue, it's important to act fast. As soon as she got engaged, Emily Hardman called the banquet hall and the temple. She said that after making those three calls, the wedding was pretty much planned.

If you're looking to get married in a church, it's worth noting that you may need to give more notice. In some cases, you may need to give at least three months' notice. However, if you're open to a civil ceremony, you may be able to find a venue that can accommodate your wedding at short notice.

When choosing a venue, it's important to consider the size of your guest list. You'll want to make sure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your guests. It's also important to think about the location of the venue. If you're getting married in a different city or country, you'll need to factor in travel time and accommodation for your guests.

Another thing to keep in mind is the style of the venue. Do you want something traditional or more modern? Are there any specific features or amenities that are important to you, such as a garden or a view? Considering these factors will help you narrow down your venue options and make a decision quickly.

Finally, don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to venues. If you're short on time, you may need to consider alternative options, such as a restaurant, a park, or even your own backyard. With a little creativity and flexibility, you can find a venue that fits your vision and your timeline.

Guests

Firstly, consider the size of your guest list. A shorter guest list can make planning easier and more intimate. Prioritise close family and friends who you truly want to share your special day with. This will also help with venue selection, as a smaller guest list may open up more venue options.

Once you have your guest list finalised, it's time to send out invitations. In a five-day timeframe, digital invitations or even phone calls may be the most efficient way to reach your guests. Be sure to communicate the date, time, and location clearly, and provide any necessary details, such as dress code or transportation arrangements.

To make your guests feel welcomed and appreciated, consider providing a small gift or favour. This could be something simple and meaningful, like a personalised note or a small token that represents your appreciation for their presence.

On the day of the wedding, ensure that your guests are well taken care of. Provide refreshments and comfortable seating, especially if the ceremony and reception are held in the same location. If possible, assign a close friend or family member to act as a guest coordinator, ensuring that everyone has what they need and feels included in the celebrations.

Lastly, don't stress over the small details. As Hardman, who planned her wedding in five days, noted, "Nobody noticed that I didn't have flowers." Your guests are there to celebrate your love and will likely be understanding of any last-minute changes or missing decorations. Focus on creating a joyful atmosphere and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Flowers

However, if you do want flowers at your wedding, there are a few ways to get them at short notice. You could try calling local florists to see if they have any last-minute availability. You could also consider buying flowers from a supermarket or flower market and arranging them yourself. This could be a fun activity to do with your bridal party or family.

If you're looking for something more unique, you could try dried flowers or paper flowers. These can often be ordered online and delivered quickly. You could also ask your guests to bring a flower each as a contribution to your bouquet.

Finally, don't forget that flowers aren't the only option for decorations. You could use greenery, such as eucalyptus or fern leaves, which can be cheaper and more readily available. You could also use candles or fairy lights to create a romantic atmosphere.

Food

Planning a wedding in five days is no easy feat, but it can be done. One of the most important aspects of any wedding is the food. Here are some ideas to help you plan a delicious and memorable spread for your big day.

Firstly, consider what type of food you want to serve. Do you want to stick to traditional wedding fare, or go for something more unique and personalised? If you're short on time, opting for classic dishes like chicken or beef might be a safer bet, as they are likely to be more readily available from caterers. However, if you want to add a creative twist, consider serving wood-fired pizza, sushi stations, or portable oyster buckets. These unexpected choices will surely delight your guests.

For a fun and interactive element, why not set up food bars or stations? A bacon skewer bar with various flavours, such as chocolate-covered, honey-jalapeno, and alder-smoked, will be a hit with guests of all ages. If you're looking for something healthier, a crudités bar with fresh vegetables and fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapes is a sophisticated option. You can even add a regional twist by incorporating local olives and nuts, especially if you're getting married in the Mediterranean.

Don't forget to consider dietary restrictions and preferences. Make sure to include vegan or vegetarian options, such as vegan burgers or seasoned veggies with toasted garlic bread. If you're serving seafood, provide alternatives like veggie sushi rolls. Sending out food options with your invitations can help you gauge your guests' preferences and ensure that everyone is catered for.

Finally, don't neglect the dessert! While only a small percentage of couples consider cake and desserts a spending priority, a sweet treat can be a lovely way to end the night. Whether it's a traditional wedding cake or a refreshing scoop of ice cream, your guests are sure to enjoy it.

Frequently asked questions