Planning A Wedding: A Year-Long Journey?

Planning a wedding can be a lengthy process, and the time it takes varies depending on the type of wedding, the location, and the season. While some couples opt for shorter engagements and plan their weddings in as little as three to six months, others take their time, with engagements lasting up to two years or more. The average time to plan a wedding is around 12 to 18 months, allowing couples to secure a venue, create a guest list, and make all the necessary arrangements for their big day.

Budgeting and saving

Once you have a budget in place, you can start allocating funds to different aspects of the wedding, such as the venue, catering, photography, entertainment, and attire. Prioritise the elements that are most important to you and be prepared to make compromises in other areas if necessary.

To save money, consider having your wedding on a weekday, as venues often offer lower rates for mid-week bookings. You can also save by opting for an all-inclusive package or choosing a less popular month or day for your wedding.

If you have a longer engagement, you will have more time to save up for the wedding. This can help reduce financial stress and give you more flexibility with your budget. However, keep in mind that popular venues and vendors may require booking 12 or more months in advance, so you may need to adjust your timeline if you have your heart set on specific vendors.

Additionally, be mindful of hidden costs and unexpected expenses. These can include things like invitations, wedding favours, hair and makeup, and transportation. It is recommended to have a buffer in your budget to accommodate these extra costs.

Finally, remember that your wedding is just one day, and it is the start of your married life together. While it is important to create a memorable celebration, do not feel pressured to spend beyond your means. Focus on what truly matters to you as a couple, and you will be able to plan a wedding that is both meaningful and financially responsible.

Choosing a venue

A year is generally considered enough time to plan a wedding, but this can vary depending on factors such as the type of wedding, venue availability, and location.

When it comes to choosing a venue, this can be one of the most time-consuming tasks. It is important to start looking for a venue early on in the planning process, as popular venues can get booked up quickly, sometimes a year or more in advance. The day of the week can also make a difference, with Saturdays being the most popular and mid-week days potentially offering more availability and lower prices.

To choose a venue, you will need to have a sense of your guest list size, as this will determine the capacity of the venue. Creating a budget will also help guide your decision, as prices can vary significantly depending on the venue and the day of the week.

When researching venues, consider the following:

• Visit the venue in person to get a sense of the space and discuss options.
• Price out menus and other services offered by the venue.
• Check the venue's availability on your preferred wedding date(s).
• Compare different venues to find one that fits your vision and budget.

If you are set on a specific, in-demand venue, you may need to wait longer or be flexible with your wedding date. However, keep in mind that there are many venues to choose from, and being open to different options can help you secure a venue that fits your timeline.

Additionally, consider the season and location of your wedding, as this can impact venue availability and pricing. For example, certain months may be busier for weddings, and venues in popular destinations might book up faster.

By starting the venue search early and considering these factors, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect venue for your special day within your desired timeline.

Selecting a wedding dress

According to wedding planning experts, a year is enough time to plan a wedding. However, the length of the planning process depends on the type of wedding you want. If you're looking for a fully-planned event, it will take some time to put everything together. The average time to plan a wedding is 15 months, but it can be done in less time.

Now, let's focus on selecting a wedding dress, which is one of the most important tasks on your checklist. Here are some detailed tips to help you choose the perfect wedding dress for your big day:

• Start shopping early: Wedding dresses are typically purchased nine to twelve months before the wedding. This allows ample time for alterations, customizations, and accessorizing. Don't leave it too late, or you may have to pay expedited rates or settle for an off-the-rack option.
• Narrow down your style: Begin by figuring out how you want to feel on your wedding day. Do you want to feel romantic, classic, edgy, or glamorous? Choose a few specific words to describe your dream bridal style, and lean into this when selecting boutiques and trying on dresses.
• Understand your must-haves: Make a list of the details you love as you try on different styles. Consider the neckline, fabric, sleeves, embellishments, and train. Focus on these details rather than the fit, as alterations can be made to ensure a perfect fit.
• Get inspired: If you're unsure where to start, look for inspiration from bridal magazines, Pinterest, or celebrity weddings. Fine-tune your bridal style and don't be afraid to incorporate unique elements, such as a non-traditional colour or a family heirloom.
• Consider your body type and comfort: Choose a dress that flatters your body type and accentuates your favourite features. Ultimately, you want to feel comfortable and confident, with your personality shining through.
• Visit local bridal boutiques: Local boutiques offer a personalized shopping experience, and consultants may have insights into the top styles and venue-specific recommendations. They often provide dresses in a wider range of sizes for trying on.
• Book appointments: Most bridal stores require appointments, so be sure to book in advance. Weekdays are generally better than weekends, as you'll receive more personal attention from consultants and less competition from other shoppers.
• Set a budget: Wedding dresses can be expensive, and most are final sale, so set a budget and consider pre-owned or secondhand options for unique and budget-friendly choices.

Remember, selecting a wedding dress is a personal choice, so trust your gut and choose a style that you love, regardless of other people's expectations. Enjoy the process and happy planning!

Catering and cake

Catering is one of the most important aspects of your wedding day. It's a good idea to start looking for a caterer as soon as you've chosen your date and venue(s). If you have a specific caterer in mind, contact them as soon as possible to book the date. If they're not available, you may need to change the date or find an alternative company.

The number of servers you'll need will depend on the number of guests and the style of catering. For a buffet, three servers may be sufficient, but for a seated meal, you'll likely need more. For example, for a wedding of 150 people, one source recommends six servers, two bartenders, and one bar server. Another source suggests that for 80 guests, you'll need six to eight servers. It's also important to consider the time of day of your wedding and whether you'll be serving alcohol. If so, you may need to hire additional bar staff.

When it comes to setup and breakdown, caterers typically need a minimum of two hours to set up and may stay one hour after the event ends to clean up. This time can be used for tasks like setting up tables and tablecloths, as well as warming, serving, and cleaning up the food.

If you're considering catering the wedding yourself, be aware that this requires careful planning and budgeting. It can be a meaningful and affordable option, especially if you and your partner share a passion for cooking. However, it's important to keep your menu simple and choose dishes that are neither labor- nor cost-intensive. A plated sit-down dinner, for example, may require multiple courses, a variety of servingware, and waiters to serve each course, adding to the complexity.

The wedding cake is another important consideration. It's not just a sweet treat but also a focal point of your celebration. Be sure to choose a baker who can create a cake that looks and tastes delicious. You can also use your venue or caterer to find out about rentals, such as tables and chairs, or you may need to book a separate rental company.

There is no definitive rule about when to cut the cake, but it often happens towards the end of the reception, sometimes as the final event before the wedding comes to a close. However, some people see cake-cutting as a signal that the party is over, so you could do it before dinner and hand out slices of cake after guests have eaten. Alternatively, you could serve a separate, undecorated sheet cake to guests while keeping the original cake for yourselves.

Photography and entertainment

Wedding planning timelines vary depending on the type of wedding you want. While some couples plan their weddings in as little as three weeks, others take several years. According to experts, the average time to plan a wedding is about a year, and this timeframe is considered enough for a standard, local wedding. However, it's important to note that factors such as seasonality, venue popularity, and personal preferences can impact the planning process.

• Book your photographer and other entertainment professionals early: Photographers, bands, DJs, and videographers are in high demand and can get booked up quickly, sometimes years in advance. Secure these vendors as early as possible to ensure you have a wide range of options and increase your chances of booking your top choices.
• Create a wedding photography checklist: Work with your photographer to create a shot list that captures all the special moments you want to remember. Include photos of the wedding party getting ready, putting on the finishing touches, and special moments like the "first look" between the couple. Discuss any specific details, such as portraits of absent loved ones or handmade decorations, that you want to be included in your photo album.
• Consider a second shooter: If you want to capture both the bride and groom getting ready simultaneously, consider hiring a second shooter or having the photographer and videographer split their time between the two of you. This way, you can capture intimate moments without incurring extra expenses.
• Sunset shots: Depending on the weather and your wedding location, don't miss the opportunity to capture breathtaking sunset photos. Your photographer may suggest stepping outside for these magical shots.
• Entertainment options: In addition to photographers and videographers, consider what other forms of entertainment you want at your wedding. This could include a band, DJ, or even a special dance performance by the wedding party or friends. Book these entertainers early to secure their availability.
• Food and drink choices: Choose your caterer and start planning the food and drink options for your wedding breakfast. This includes tasting sessions and selecting the wedding cake. Ensure you communicate any specific dietary requirements or preferences to your caterer.
• Guest list and venue: Finalize your guest list and choose a venue that can accommodate your expected number of guests. The headcount will impact the venue size and budget, so it's crucial to make these decisions early in the planning process.
• Budgeting: Create a comprehensive budget that covers all aspects of your wedding, including photography, entertainment, catering, venue, and any other expenses. This will help you make informed choices and adjust your expectations if necessary.

Frequently asked questions