Planning A Wedding In Australia: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding in Australia can be a stressful experience, but there are plenty of resources available to help you through the process. From books to checklists, there are ways to ensure you don't forget anything and can enjoy your big day to the max. The first step is to work out your budget, as this will inform all your other decisions. You can then start thinking about the fun stuff, like choosing a cake that matches your wedding style and tastes.

Budgeting

The average cost of a wedding in Australia is around $34,715, but this can vary depending on your budget and preferences. Most couples spend 26% more than their original wedding budget, so it's important to be realistic and plan ahead.

There are several factors that can affect the cost of a wedding, including the guest count, the time of year, whether it's a weekday or weekend event, the experience level of vendors, the range of services required, and catering preferences. The venue is usually the most expensive item, with couples spending an average of 45% of their budget on the reception venue alone.

To stay on top of your spending, there are several budgeting tools and resources available. Wedding budgeting apps like The Knot and WeddingHappy can help you set a budget, track expenses, and find vendors. Budgeting websites like WeddingWire and Easy Weddings offer free online tools to create a budget, allocate funds to different categories, and receive spending recommendations. Spreadsheet templates are also available for free online if you prefer a more hands-on approach.

Choosing a cake

When it comes to choosing a cake, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to match the cake height to your space. You don't want a towering cake that won't fit through the door or that's too tall for your venue's ceilings!

Next, choose a cake that you like, not what you think your guests will expect. It's your wedding, so pick a flavour and design that reflects your tastes. If you're a fan of traditional fruit cake, go for it! But if you're more of a chocolate lover, there's no reason why you can't have a chocolate wedding cake.

It's also important to consider the ingredients and texture of your cake in relation to the weather. If you're having an outdoor wedding in the Australian heat, you'll need a cake that can hold up against the temperature. Fondant, for example, is a good choice for warmer climates as it's less likely to melt than buttercream.

Finally, don't forget to create a detailed delivery plan for your cake. This includes providing the cake maker with the address and access details for your venue, as well as any special instructions, such as where to set up the cake and when. It's also a good idea to ask your caterer to keep some cake aside for you in case you don't get a chance to eat any during the wedding. That way, you can enjoy a slice of your wedding cake at your leisure!

Venue visits

When it comes to venue visits, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to do your research and narrow down your options before arranging any viewings. Consider factors such as location, guest capacity, facilities, and property type. You can use online directories and platforms to refine your search and create a shortlist of venues that match your criteria. Once you have a shortlist, you can start contacting venues to arrange viewings and ask any questions you may have. It's a good idea to bring along a checklist or a guide to help you evaluate each venue and keep track of your thoughts and impressions.

During your venue visits, pay attention to the details that are important to you and your partner. Consider the space and how it will accommodate your guest list, the amenities and facilities available, and whether the venue aligns with your vision for the wedding. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take your time to make an informed decision.

If you're planning a wedding in Australia, you'll find a variety of venue options to choose from, including breathtaking coastlines, charming vineyards, and stylish cityscapes. Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort like the Park Hyatt in Sydney or a unique setting like Lizard Island, there's something to suit every taste and budget.

Remember, the venue is a crucial aspect of your wedding day, so take the time to explore your options, visit potential locations, and make a decision that reflects your dreams and aspirations.

Vendor appointments

When you meet your vendors in person, each meeting should have a purpose and make you feel even better about the event you're planning. Bring inspiration with you – if you have a wedding notebook or folder of inspiration photos, bring them along to the appointment. It's also important to know your budget – your vendors can give you better direction to your wants and needs if they know how much you have to spend.

Some of the most important vendors to consider are the venue, caterer, florist and bakery. The wedding venue sets the mood and tone for your big day, while the caterer ensures your guests are delighted with a scrumptious meal. The wedding cake is also a key consideration – make sure you choose what you like, not what your guests expect, and match the cake height to your space.

LGBTQ+ and multicultural ceremonies

Planning a wedding can be a stressful experience, but it doesn't have to be. Terri Pous's *How to Plan a Wedding* is a great resource for LGBTQ+ couples and multicultural ceremonies. The book encourages you to choose the things you actually want at your wedding and skip those that don't matter. After all, this day is about the two of you, so tie the knot however you wish!

The first step in planning your wedding is to set a budget. Knowing the bottom line of your wedding will allow you to make the right decisions regarding service providers and allocate funds accordingly. This will help you decide what kind of wedding you want, whether it's an elopement at city hall or a reception for all of your friends and family.

Once you have a budget in mind, you can start thinking about the specific details of your wedding. This includes choosing a venue, selecting a date, and deciding on a theme or style for your wedding. You'll also need to think about the legal requirements for getting married in Australia, such as obtaining a marriage licence.

As an LGBTQ+ or multicultural couple, you may also want to consider how you can incorporate your unique backgrounds and identities into your wedding. This could include choosing a venue that reflects your culture, incorporating traditional wedding customs, or simply surrounding yourself with people who celebrate and support your love.

Don't forget to enjoy the planning process! Planning a wedding should be a fun and exciting experience. Terri Pous's book can be a helpful guide throughout the process, from venue visits and vendor appointments to tastings and fittings. You can even bring it along to your bach party!

Frequently asked questions