Planning A Wedding: A Checklist For Your Big Day

Planning a wedding can be a stressful experience, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools, you can stay organised and stress-free as you tick off each item on your wedding checklist. From deciding on a venue to writing thank-you cards, there's a lot to think about. But don't worry – we're here to help you create a comprehensive plan that will ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.

Budgeting

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but staying organised is key. One of the first things to do is to decide on a budget and find a wedding budget tool or tracker that works for you. This will help you to keep track of your spending and ensure that you don't go over budget.

When creating your budget, it's important to consider all the costs involved in planning a wedding. These can include the venue, catering, entertainment, flowers, photography, and more. It's also important to factor in any hidden costs, such as taxes, gratuities, and delivery fees.

To help you stay organised, create a spreadsheet or use a wedding planning app to keep track of your budget. List all the expenses, including the estimated cost and the actual cost. This will help you identify any areas where you may need to cut back or adjust your spending.

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Wedding planning can be overwhelming, and it's okay to reach out to friends, family, or a wedding planner for assistance. By staying organised and on top of your budget, you can ensure that your wedding planning process is as stress-free as possible.

Location

First, decide on the general location of your wedding. Will it be a destination wedding or will you get married in your hometown? If you're planning a destination wedding, research potential locations and consider the weather and the time of year. For example, if you're dreaming of a beach wedding, look into tropical locations with warm weather year-round.

Next, start researching specific venues within your chosen location. Consider the type of venue you want, such as a barn, a garden, a ballroom, or a church. Visit the venues in person to get a feel for the space and to ensure it aligns with your vision.

When selecting a venue, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, consider the capacity of the venue and whether it can accommodate your guest list. Second, think about the amenities and services offered by the venue. For example, does it have a kitchen for catering, or will you need to bring in an outside caterer? Does it provide tables, chairs, and other necessary rentals, or will you need to source those separately?

Finally, discuss your budget with the venue coordinator and be transparent about your financial limitations. Venues can often be flexible and may offer packages or discounts to suit your needs. Don't forget to ask about any hidden costs, such as service charges or cleaning fees, to avoid any surprises later on.

Remember, the location of your wedding is a crucial aspect that will set the tone for your entire day. Take your time to explore different options and trust your instincts to find the perfect venue that aligns with your vision and budget.

Guest list

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but staying organised is key. One of the first things to do is to start building your guest list and discuss the size of the wedding you want. This will help you decide on the venue and other details.

To keep track of your guest list, you can use a wedding planning notebook or a spreadsheet. You should also keep track of RSVPs, which you can do on a website like The Knot.

When building your guest list, consider the people who are most important to you and your partner. This might include close friends and family, as well as any special guests, such as a favourite teacher or mentor. You may also want to consider whether to invite children and how many guests each member of the wedding party can bring.

Finally, don't forget to send out invitations and keep track of RSVPs. This will help you finalise numbers for catering and other arrangements.

Timing

Planning a wedding can be a long process, so it's important to stay organised and start early. Most checklists recommend starting your planning 12 months before the wedding, but this can be adapted to suit your needs.

In the first few months, you should decide on the general location of your wedding, who is hosting and paying, and start building your guest list. You should also discuss the size of the wedding you want and create a budget.

Around 9-11 months before the wedding, you should start looking at venues and booking vendors. This is also a good time to start thinking about your wedding dress and any other attire for the wedding party.

In the months leading up to the wedding, you'll need to finalise all the details, from the catering to the music and decorations. Don't forget to send out your invitations and keep track of RSVPs.

In the final weeks, it's time to tie up any loose ends and make sure everything is confirmed. You should also take some time to relax and enjoy the lead-up to your wedding day.

After the wedding, there are still a few things to do, such as sending thank-you cards and completing your registry.

Vendors

Begin by gathering wedding inspiration and creating a vision for your big day. This will help you communicate your ideas and requirements to potential vendors. Once you have a clear idea of what you want, start researching and reaching out to vendors. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and read online reviews to get a sense of their work and reputation.

When contacting vendors, be clear about your budget and what you're looking for. Ask for detailed quotes and be sure to understand what's included in their services. It's also a good idea to meet with potential vendors in person or via video call to discuss your vision and ensure you're on the same page.

As you narrow down your choices, ask for references from past clients and check their availability for your wedding date. Finalise the details and get everything in writing, including a clear breakdown of costs, services provided, and any other relevant information.

On the day of your wedding, ensure you have a point of contact for each vendor and that they are aware of the timeline and any specific requirements. After the wedding, be sure to follow up with a thank-you note and any final payments or feedback.

Frequently asked questions