George Boyle
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but a good wedding list can help you stay on track and ensure that you don't forget anything important. From the all-important rings to the marriage license, there are a lot of essentials to remember. This list should cover everything you need to do and buy for your wedding, from the stationery and seating charts to the emergency kit and honeymoon packing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding dress | Purchase undergarments after the first fitting |
| Rings | |
| Invites | Save-the-dates, RSVP cards, formal invitations, programs, place cards |
| Vendors | Wedding planner, photographer, videographer, florist, caterer |
| Gifts | Wedding favors, welcome bags |
| Emergency kit | Safety pins, sewing kit, band-aids, stain-remover pens |
| Weather | Umbrellas, fans, outdoor wedding protection |
| Accessories | Shoes, jewellery, hair accessories, lingerie |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding stationery
Save-the-Date Cards:
Save-the-date cards are not mandatory, but they are a nice gesture, especially if you are planning a wedding near a holiday or have several out-of-town guests. These cards usually include the names of the bride and groom, the date and the city where the wedding will take place. You can also include your wedding website to direct guests to more information. It is common to put "formal invitation to follow" at the bottom of the card.
Engagement Party Invitations:
Engagement parties are optional, but if you are having one, sending invitations is a must. These invitations should include the location, date, time and any required dress code. They should be sent two to three months in advance for a formal party, and six to eight weeks in advance for a more casual affair.
Wedding Invitations:
The wedding invitations are the most important aspect of your wedding stationery. They include the host of the wedding (bride's parents, both families, etc.), the names of the bride and groom, the wedding date and time, the venue, and the city and state. Wedding invitations usually follow a standard card size of A7 (5" x 7") with a coordinating A7 envelope. Formal invitations may also include an outer A7.5 envelope. The outer envelope should have the recipient's address and postage stamps, while the inner envelope should include the title and last name of the invitees. Remember to include a separate response card with your invitation, even if you are requesting guests to reply online.
Other Stationery:
In addition to the above, you may want to consider other wedding stationery, such as menu cards, ceremony programs, place cards, thank-you cards, and welcome party tags. You can also include photos on your wedding stationery, such as portraits from your engagement photoshoot or images of the wedding venue.
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Wedding attire and accessories
The Wedding Dress:
The wedding dress is a central part of the bridal outfit. It is recommended to have your first fitting two to three months after ordering, and the second fitting should be around six weeks before the wedding. This will give you time to purchase the necessary undergarments, as the type of underpinnings required will become clear after the first fitting.
Accessories:
The right accessories will complete your bridal look. Here are some key items to consider:
- Jewellery: Choose jewellery that complements your wedding dress. You can borrow something from a happily married friend or family member or select a piece with meaning, such as something bought on a memorable trip.
- Hair Accessories: A hairpiece or headband can add a unique touch to your hairstyle.
- Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for the big day. Opt for heels or flats that you can dance in and walk down the aisle with ease.
- Outerwear: Consider a statement piece of outerwear, like a customised denim jacket or a modern faux leather jacket, to keep you warm and add personality to your look.
- Garter: If you're partaking in the garter tradition, choose one that reflects your bridal style, from simple to embellished.
The Groom's Attire:
While the groom's checklist may not be as extensive, it's essential to double-check his essentials. Here are some key items:
- Suit or Tuxedo: The groom's attire should complement the wedding's theme and style.
- Shoes: Ensure the groom has comfortable and stylish shoes to match his outfit.
- Accessories: The groom can also accessorise with items like a watch, cufflinks, or a pocket square.
Emergency Kit:
It's a good idea to prepare an emergency kit to handle any last-minute hiccups. Assign a member of the wedding party to ensure the kit is with you throughout the day. Here are some suggested items:
- Safety pins
- Sewing kit
- Band-aids
- Stain remover pens
- Backup undergarments
- Touch-up makeup
- Tissues
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Wedding favours and welcome gifts
There are many options to choose from when it comes to wedding favours, ranging from cute keepsakes to edible treats and practical gifts. If you're looking for something affordable, matchboxes are a great option. They can be personalised with your wedding theme and details, and are both cute and practical. For an eco-friendly wedding, you could opt for sustainable gifts like flower seed packets made from recycled paper, or mini potted plants that guests can take home and plant.
Edible treats are always a popular choice for wedding favours, and there are plenty of options to choose from. You could go for something sweet like chocolate bars with illustrated labels, heart-shaped tea bags, or jars of honey. Alternatively, spice things up with bottles of hot sauce, which can be personalised with cheeky puns like "One hot couple". If you're having a destination wedding, you could choose a favour that's inspired by your wedding locale, like mini jars of olive oil for a celebration in Santorini or fresh oranges for a wedding in Florida.
Practical gifts that guests can actually use are often the best choice for wedding favours. Breath mints are a great option, and you can personalise the packaging with your names, wedding details, and a clever phrase like "Mint to be". For a more luxurious welcome gift, consider including luxe toiletries like under-eye gels in welcome bags to revive tired eyes after a long day of celebrations.
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Wedding vendors and planners
Wedding planners can be a great help when it comes to pulling together all the different elements of your special day. They can be involved as much or as little as you like and can be particularly useful if you are planning your wedding from a distance or are short on time. A wedding planner can help you to create a vision for your day and bring it to life, as well as offering invaluable local knowledge and supplier recommendations. They can also help you to manage your budget and may even be able to negotiate discounts with certain suppliers.
If you are planning your wedding yourself, it is a good idea to create a timeline and a budget to work to. Break down the different elements you will need to plan and set yourself deadlines to keep everything on track. You could also consider using a wedding planning app or creating a spreadsheet to keep all your information in one place.
There are a number of wedding vendors and suppliers that you will need to consider when planning your big day. The first step is to decide on a venue, as this will often dictate the style and theme of your wedding. You will then need to think about catering, including any special dietary requirements, and drinks. If you want to include entertainment, there are a number of options to consider, from bands and DJs to photo booths and garden games.
Other vendors to consider include florists, photographers, videographers, cake makers, transport providers, and hair and makeup artists. It is also worth thinking about any additional extras you may want, such as a wedding coordinator or on-the-day setup staff, to ensure that your day runs smoothly. Finally, consider any unique touches to make your day truly special and memorable.
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Wedding venue and weather
When it comes to your wedding venue, it's important to choose a space that aligns with your vision and plan for your special day. The venue you select will set the tone for your wedding and can inspire everything from your colour scheme to your attire. It is best to book wedding venue tours and come prepared with a checklist to ensure the space meets your requirements.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a wedding venue. Firstly, decide whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor venue. If you opt for an outdoor venue, it is advisable to reserve a backup indoor venue in case of unfavourable weather conditions. Consider the decor, sound, and lighting options available at the venue and whether they align with your desired atmosphere. Inquire about the availability of decor, sound, and lighting on-site, as well as the associated costs. If the venue does not provide these services, you may need to outsource them.
Additionally, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. Assess the parking situation, including the availability of valet parking and the distance between the parking area and the venue itself. For colder weather weddings, ensure there is a designated coat check area. Confirm the presence of dressing rooms for the couple and wedding party to prepare and store their belongings. Verify that the venue has ADA-compliant facilities and entrances to accommodate guests with special needs. Ensure the venue has adequate electricity and lighting, especially if your wedding will continue into the evening.
Lastly, remember to prepare an emergency kit for your wedding day. This kit should include items such as safety pins, a sewing kit, band-aids, and stain remover pens to handle any last-minute hiccups. Assign a member of the wedding party to ensure that the kit stays with you throughout the celebrations.
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Frequently asked questions
Essential items include the rings, your wedding attire and accessories, your marriage license, and an emergency kit.
Your emergency kit should include items like a sewing kit, safety pins, stain remover pens, band-aids, and any other essentials that can help you through the day.
You should also prepare welcome gifts for your guests at the hotel, confirm times and locations with vendors, and ensure you have enough umbrellas if the weather forecast predicts rain.
You may not need to purchase items like candles, candle holders, cups, plates, and utensils if your florist or caterer is already providing them. Focus your budget on items that are not normally covered by other vendors.
You should start thinking about your wedding stationery, including save-the-dates, invitations, and programs, about nine months before your wedding. This will give you enough time to choose a design and finalize the details.
