Planning A Wedding: A 2-Year Timeline Guide

Planning a wedding in two years is a long-term project, but it's a great idea. You'll have plenty of time to make decisions and be flexible with your choices. While some couples plan their weddings in less than a year, or even two months, you can take your time and make sure everything is just right. From booking the venue to choosing a photographer, there's a lot to think about. But don't worry, with a bit of organisation and some helpful tips, you'll be well on your way to creating the wedding of your dreams.

Budgeting

First, work out how much money you have available. This could be your individual or joint savings, or money from family members who are contributing to the wedding. Then, decide how much of this you feel comfortable spending on your wedding. Remember to factor in other large expenses you have coming up, such as buying a house or having a baby.

Next, work out how much you can set aside each month without affecting your lifestyle more than you're willing to accommodate. Multiply this number by the length of your engagement (in this case, 2 years) and that will give you your wedding budget. You can also divide the total cost of your ideal wedding by this number to work out how long you'll need to save for.

Now, it's time to plan how you'll spend your budget. Start by deciding on your top three non-negotiables, and cover these costs first. Then, allocate the rest of your budget to the other elements of your wedding, such as venue, attire, flowers and decor, entertainment, transportation, hair and makeup. Remember to leave a little extra in your budget for any unexpected costs.

Venue

Planning a wedding in two years is a great idea, as you won't have to rush your decisions. You will have plenty of time to find the perfect venue, and you can even take advantage of virtual tours to narrow down your options before visiting your favourites in person.

When it comes to choosing a venue, the first thing to consider is your budget. Wedding venues can vary significantly in price, so it's important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Once you have a budget in mind, you can start researching venues that fit within your price range.

Another important consideration is the size of your wedding. If you're planning a large wedding with many guests, you'll need a venue that can accommodate everyone comfortably. On the other hand, if you're planning a more intimate gathering, you might prefer a smaller, more cosy venue.

The location of your venue is also key. Consider whether you want a destination wedding or something closer to home. If you have guests travelling from far away, you might want to choose a venue that is easily accessible and has nearby accommodation options.

Finally, think about the style and theme of your wedding. Do you want a traditional venue, such as a church or a historic building, or something more unique, like a barn or a beach wedding? The venue you choose should reflect the overall style and atmosphere you want to create for your special day.

With two years to plan, you have the luxury of time to explore all your venue options and make a decision that truly reflects your vision for your wedding day.

Vendors

When it comes to vendors, you have plenty of time to get first pick of all the vendors you want. Start by looking around to see what you like and want in terms of vendors and make a list. You can also make a list of detailed questions to ask vendors so you know what to ask when you start booking them.

You should also get real quotes from lots of vendors to set a realistic budget. Many wedding costs are calculated per person, so you can’t finalise your budget without a target guest count. You don’t necessarily have to decide who the guests will be yet, just how many you are willing/able to host.

Ask your wedding venue for a list of preferred vendors to make your wedding planning journey easier. You can also start locking down major vendors so you get your first choice.

Guest list

Planning a wedding guest list can be stressful, but there are ways to make the process smoother. The size of your guest list will have a big impact on your budget, so it's important to consider how many people you can afford to invite. You should also take into account your favourite people, as well as guests your families might wish to be there.

It's a good idea to start with a rough guest list before you've picked your venue, so you can narrow down your options to spaces that can accommodate your party size. However, if you've already booked your dream venue, you can work the other way around and create your guest list based on the venue's capacity.

You can organise your guest list in a spreadsheet, with columns for tracking guests' formal names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and any food allergies. This will make it easier to count the total number of guests and invitations, as well as being useful when it comes to addressing invites and sending thank-you cards.

Wedding date

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can make it a smooth and enjoyable process. Here are some tips to help you plan your wedding date when you have a two-year timeline:

Start with a Vision and Priorities:

Begin by discussing with your partner the vision for your wedding. Is there a specific wedding date that holds significance for you? Do you want a seasonal wedding, such as a spring or autumn celebration? Having a clear vision will guide your planning process. Prioritise the three most important aspects of your wedding, whether it's the venue, a particular date, a specific photographer, or entertainment. This will help you stay focused and make decisions within your budget.

Research and Inspiration:

Explore various resources for bridal inspiration, such as Pinterest, Instagram, magazines, and dedicated bridal websites. Start researching venues, vendors, and entertainment options that align with your vision and priorities. This will give you a sense of availability and help you secure your preferred options well in advance.

Be Flexible and Adaptable:

While having a clear vision is essential, remember that flexibility is key when planning a wedding. You may not get your first choice for every aspect, so be prepared to adapt and make compromises. This is where your prioritised list comes in handy, as you can focus your efforts on securing the most important elements while remaining open to alternatives for other details.

Book Early:

With a two-year timeline, you have the advantage of starting early. Begin researching and reaching out to venues, vendors, and entertainment options as soon as possible. Many popular wedding venues and vendors get booked up quickly, so securing your preferred choices early will give you peace of mind and ensure a smoother planning process.

Keep an Open Mind:

While it's important to start planning early, don't feel pressured to make rushed decisions. Take your time to consider different options and keep an open mind. Explore a variety of venues, vendors, and dates before finalising your choices. This will ensure that you make well-informed decisions that truly reflect your vision and priorities.

Consider a Wedding Planner:

If the planning process becomes overwhelming or you're short on time, consider hiring a wedding planner. They can provide valuable assistance in organising and coordinating the various aspects of your wedding. A wedding planner can help streamline the process, taking some of the burdens off your shoulders so you can enjoy your engagement and the anticipation of your special day.

Frequently asked questions