Big Dreams, Bigger Plans: My Wedding Vision

Me & My Big Ideas is a brand that offers a range of wedding planning products, including the Create 365 Wedding Planner Extension and the Happy Planner Collection. The brand's products are designed to help couples plan their wedding by providing them with the necessary tools such as schedules, checklists, budgets, organization sheets, and tips. The wedding planner extension includes 10 dividers and 42 pre-punched pages to help couples stay organized and on track during the planning process. In addition to their wedding planning products, Me & My Big Ideas also offers a variety of stickers, inserts, and other accessories to customize and decorate planners.

Budgeting

Determine Your Total Budget

The first step is to figure out how much money you have to work with. This includes your savings, contributions from family or friends, and any other sources of funding. Be realistic about what you can afford, and consider your daily expenses and other financial commitments.

Prioritise Your Spending

Not all aspects of a wedding are equally important to every couple. Discuss with your partner and decide on your must-haves and areas where you can compromise. This will help you allocate your budget effectively.

Create a Breakdown

Divide your budget across different categories, such as venue, catering, attire, flowers, entertainment, etc. Use online resources and wedding planning guides to get an idea of the typical costs for each category.

Research and Compare

Start researching vendors, venues, and services that fit your style and budget. Compare prices and packages to find the best value for money. Don't be afraid to negotiate and ask for custom quotes to match your specific needs.

Track Your Spending

Create a spreadsheet or use a wedding budget app to track your expenses. Record every payment and keep all your receipts. This will help you stay organised and ensure you don't exceed your budget.

Consider Hidden Costs

Remember to factor in hidden costs like tips for vendors, overtime fees, postage, transportation, taxes, and service charges. These expenses can add up quickly, so it's important to include them in your budget.

Save Money Where You Can

There are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing the overall experience:

• Opt for a less expensive venue or an off-peak date.
• Keep your guest list small to reduce food and drink costs.
• Choose simple, elegant dishes instead of extravagant menus.
• Go paperless with electronic invitations and save on printing costs.
• Rent or repurpose items like clothing, decor, or furniture instead of buying new.

Stay Organised and Flexible

Stay on top of your budget by regularly reviewing and adjusting it as needed. Be prepared to make compromises or cut costs in certain areas if you exceed your expectations in others.

Remember, the "Me and My Big Ideas" wedding planner includes sections specifically for budgeting, along with helpful tips and organisational tools to make your wedding planning a success.

Checklists

The "Me and My Big Ideas" wedding planner is a comprehensive tool to help you plan your big day. It includes sections on vendors, inspiration, budget, wedding party, guests, wedding events, the wedding day itself, and the honeymoon.

Pre-Planning Checklists:

• Set a budget and be willing to compromise: It's important to have a clear budget and be flexible with your wishes.
• Construct a list of priorities: Decide on the top three must-haves with your partner and be ready to adapt on everything else.
• Determine your wedding style: Use inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram, magazines, and bridal sites to define your style.
• Choose a theme or concept: Pick specific colours, seasonal inspiration, or a unique theme to design your wedding around.
• Involve your partner: Wedding planning is more fun and meaningful when both partners are involved.
• Buy a wedding planning book: Traditional etiquette and guidebooks can offer valuable tips, timelines, and checklists.
• Create a master checklist: Use online tools, apps, or a simple spreadsheet to gather all your thoughts, budgets, and checklists in one place.

Logistics Checklists:

• Think about dates and seasons: Be flexible with your wedding date to ensure availability and consider the impact of seasons on prices.
• Research venue options: Investigate prices, packages, and restrictions from multiple venues before signing any contracts.
• Book vendors you're comfortable with: Take your time to find vendors that understand your vision, work within your budget, and communicate effectively.
• Read contracts closely: Pay attention to details like dates, location, times, deposits, additional fees, and quantities. Be wary of one-sided terms.
• Choose your wedding party: Select people who can offer emotional and tactical support throughout the process.
• Book hotel room blocks: Consider your guests' accommodation needs and set up hotel blocks to ensure their comfort and convenience.
• Make a wedding website: Create a simple website to share details about dates, times, locations, dress codes, registries, transportation, and health requirements.

Final Details Checklists:

• Finalize setup details: Check with your venue about vendor arrival times and setup logistics.
• Outline key songs: Decide on must-play and do-not-play songs for your wedding festivities.
• Write your vows: Take time to pen heartfelt vows that include promises to your beloved.
• Produce a schedule of events: Create a comprehensive schedule for the wedding day, including timings for hair and makeup, vendor arrivals, transportation, speeches, first dance, and cake-cutting.
• Plan an after-party: If you want to extend the celebration, consider hosting an after-party for close family and friends.

Remember, this is your special day, so focus on the big picture, enjoy the process, and don't stress over the small details!

Wedding day schedule

A wedding day schedule is essential to ensure your big day runs smoothly. Here is a suggested timeline for your wedding day:

Morning

• Hair and makeup: Allow plenty of time for the bridal party to get ready. Consider having a hair and makeup trial beforehand to ensure you are happy with the look and timing.
• Vendors arrive: Confirm the arrival time for your vendors, such as photographers, caterers, and decorators. Ensure they have access to the venue and are set up before the ceremony.
• Transportation: If you have organized transportation for the bridal party or guests, confirm the pick-up times and locations.
• Breakfast and brunch: Amid the excitement, don't forget to eat! Plan a relaxing breakfast or brunch with your bridal party to start the day.

Ceremony

• Arrival at the ceremony: Confirm the time the bridal party and guests will arrive at the ceremony venue. Allow extra time for transportation or any last-minute touches.
• Ceremony: The moment you've been waiting for! Enjoy the ceremony and your exchange of vows.
• Signing of the register: If required, allocate time for the signing of the marriage certificate or register.

Post-Ceremony

• Congratulations and celebrations: Factor in time for guests to congratulate the happy couple and for post-ceremony celebrations, such as confetti throwing or a drinks reception.
• Family photos: Organize family photos immediately after the ceremony to ensure all guests are present. Provide a list of desired group photos to your photographer to ensure efficiency.
• Travel to the reception: If your ceremony and reception are at different venues, allow time for travel, including transportation for the bridal party and guests, if provided.

Reception

• Arrival at the reception: Confirm the arrival time for the bridal party and guests at the reception venue.
• Drinks and canapes: If you are having a summer wedding or there is a delay between the ceremony and the wedding breakfast, provide drinks and canapes for your guests.
• The wedding breakfast: Plan the timing of your wedding breakfast, including any speeches, toasts, or readings.
• Cake cutting: Traditionally, the cake-cutting ceremony takes place after the wedding breakfast.
• First dance: As the newlyweds, you will want to open the dance floor with your first dance.
• Evening entertainment: If you have organized evening entertainment, such as a band or DJ, confirm their arrival and set-up time.

Remember to provide a copy of the schedule to your bridal party, vendors, and venue coordinators to ensure everyone is well-informed and the day runs smoothly.

Enjoy your special day!

Honeymoon planning

Planning your honeymoon is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose a Destination

Decide on the location for your honeymoon. Consider what type of experience you're looking for, whether it's a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural trip to a new city, or an adventurous outdoor getaway. Research different destinations and consider factors such as climate, activities, and accommodation options.

Set a Budget

Discuss and determine how much you want to spend on your honeymoon. Consider the costs of transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and any other expenses you may incur. If you're working with a wedding planner, they can help you create a budget and provide suggestions for destinations and activities that fit within your budget.

Select Accommodations

Choose the type of accommodation that best suits your preferences and budget. Options may include luxury resorts, boutique hotels, vacation rentals, or even camping if you're feeling adventurous. Consider the amenities and services offered, as well as the location's proximity to the activities you plan to do.

Book Transportation and Activities

Arrange your transportation to and within your honeymoon destination. Book your flights, and consider whether you'll need to rent a car or use local transportation. Research and book any activities or tours you want to participate in during your trip, such as sightseeing tours, outdoor adventures, culinary experiences, or romantic dinners.

Pack Smart

Create a packing list that covers all the essentials for your trip. Don't forget to include any necessary travel documents, such as passports and visas. Pack comfortable and appropriate clothing, as well as any special items that will make your honeymoon memorable, such as a nice outfit for a romantic dinner or a good book for relaxation.

Stay Organized

Use a honeymoon checklist or planner to stay organized during the planning process. Keep track of important dates, such as booking deadlines and payment due dates. Create a day-by-day itinerary for your trip, including transportation arrangements, activity schedules, and any reservations you've made.

Seek Professional Help

Consider using a travel agent or advisor who specializes in honeymoons. They can provide valuable insights, recommend destinations, and handle the booking process for you. A travel advisor can also assist you during your trip if any issues or changes arise.

Remember to enjoy the process and don't stress too much over the small details. Your honeymoon is a time to relax and celebrate your new marriage, so focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Vendor selection

• Start with a clear understanding of your wedding style and priorities: Before reaching out to vendors, take the time to define your wedding style and identify your top three priorities. This could be the venue, a specific date, a particular photographer, or a live band. Having a clear vision will make it easier for vendors to understand your needs and expectations.
• Research and compare options: Don't rush into booking the first vendor you find. Take the time to research and compare multiple options. Look at their websites, portfolios, and reviews to get a sense of their style and quality of work. Reach out to at least a few different vendors in each category to explore their availability and pricing.
• Communication is key: Pay attention to how potential vendors communicate with you during the initial stages of your inquiry. If their communication style doesn't align with yours or they seem unreliable or disinterested, it may not be the right fit. Effective communication is essential to ensuring your vision is brought to life.
• Read contracts carefully: Before signing any contracts, scrutinize the details, including dates, locations, times, deposits, additional fees, quantities, and services provided. Ensure that everything you've discussed and agreed upon is included in the contract. Look out for clauses that prevent you from reviewing the vendor, extreme cancellation policies, or one-sided terms.
• Be mindful of your budget: Your wedding budget will guide many of your decisions, so be mindful of your financial limits when selecting vendors. Get clear on their pricing and be transparent about your budget. Don't be afraid to negotiate or ask for customized packages that fit within your spending plan.
• Trust your instincts: Ultimately, choose vendors who you feel comfortable with and who align with your vision and budget. Go with vendors who demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and a genuine interest in your special day.
• Stay organized: Keep track of your vendor options, contracts, and payments. Create a system for organizing vendor information, such as a spreadsheet or a dedicated folder, to ensure you don't miss any important details.

Frequently asked questions