The Ultimate Wedding Preparation Guide For Guests

Planning a wedding can be a stressful process, but there are many steps you can take to ensure that your big day goes smoothly. From deciding on a date and venue to choosing your wedding party, there are many aspects to consider. It's important to keep a clear head and remember that every wedding is unique, so you should only adapt the steps to fit your own needs.

Wedding venue and date

Choosing a wedding venue and date can be a challenging task, but with proper planning and flexibility, you can secure your dream location for your special day. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate this process:

Start Planning Early

It is crucial to begin planning your wedding venue and date as early as possible. This gives you more options and increases the likelihood of securing your desired venue and date. Planning ahead also allows you to be more flexible, as weekends at popular venues fill up quickly. If you have a specific venue in mind, check their availability first and then choose the best dates. If you are planning 14 months or more in advance, consider including two dates in one season and one date in another for added flexibility.

Determine Your Budget and Guest Count

Before finalising your venue and date, it is essential to have an idea of your budget and the number of guests you plan to invite. Your budget will impact the venues and dates available to you, as rates may vary depending on the day of the week and the venue's policies. Knowing your guest count will ensure that your chosen venue can comfortably accommodate your guests, tables, waiters, entertainment, and a dance floor. A good rule of thumb is to allow for 25-30 square feet of space per guest.

Research and Explore Venues

Take the time to research and explore different venues to find one that aligns with your vision and theme for the wedding. Consider factors such as the venue's location, style, budget, number of guests, and services offered. If you have a specific theme, such as a rustic theme, ensure the venue complements it. For example, a park, barn, or ranch might be a better fit than a luxury hotel. Don't forget to read reviews from previous couples and trust your instincts when visiting venues.

Consider Venue Logistics

When selecting a venue, consider the logistics to ensure a seamless celebration. Ask about indoor spaces or backup plans for inclement weather, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding. Inquire about accessibility, including entrances, exits, elevators, bathrooms, parking, and seating. Find out what the venue provides, such as tables, chairs, linens, and audio equipment. If you have specific requirements, like live music or bringing your pets, ensure the venue can accommodate them.

Finalise the Date

While choosing a date may involve some back and forth to accommodate the availability of your must-attend guests, it is essential to finalise it early. Consider the season and any significant events or holidays that may impact your desired date. If you have a dream venue in mind, check their availability for your preferred dates. Having a few alternative dates in mind will provide you with more options when booking your venue.

Planning a wedding venue and date requires early planning, flexibility, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to securing the perfect venue and date for your dream wedding.

Guest list

Planning a wedding guest list can be a complicated process and is often dependent on your venue and budget. It is important to be upfront with your partner and family members about your plan and keep an open dialogue.

To start, you and your partner should each create a list of people you would like to be there. For some, it is also important to consult family members for any additional VIP invites. You can then combine these lists and decide on a final list together.

There are many free online tools that can help you manage your guest list, such as WeddingWire, which allows you to easily upload your list or add invitees individually. These tools can help you keep track of guest attendance, manage RSVPs, and build a detailed invitation list.

The average wedding guest list has an A, B, and C list. The A list is made up of the people you are closest to, such as family and close friends. The B list is for people you know well but are not as close to, and the C list is for people you would like to see at your wedding but are more flexible about attending.

It is also important to consider external factors, such as the popularity of your chosen date, which can impact the availability and prices of venues and accommodation for your guests.

Self-care and wellness

Planning a wedding can be an exciting time, but it can also be time-consuming and overwhelming. It is important to remember to take care of your health and well-being during this busy period. Here are some self-care and wellness tips to keep in mind in the months leading up to your wedding:

Prioritize Your Mental Health

The stress of wedding planning can take a toll on your mental health and your relationship. To avoid this, consider prioritising your mental health and relationship during this time. Premarital counselling is a great way to set yourself up for success as a married couple. Additionally, establishing a realistic exercise routine can do wonders for your mental health. Regular exercise, even just once a week, can force you to take time for yourself and do something enjoyable.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a skill that can be developed over time and can be applied to any part of your day. Try focusing on your senses when performing daily tasks, such as brushing your teeth or taking a walk. Meditation is another way to increase your awareness and calm your thoughts. Shifting your attention to your breath can improve concentration and make you feel more focused and content.

Develop a Skincare Routine

Experiment with different skincare products and routines to find what works best for you. New skincare items are fun to shop for and use, and they can be a great way to treat yourself. However, be sure to start any new procedures early on, as you don't want to risk an adverse reaction right before your wedding day.

Set Aside Time for Self-Care

In the midst of wedding planning, it's important to set aside time for self-care and general life tasks. Blocking out a day each week to catch up on chores and home admin can free up time during the rest of the week, allowing you to prioritise wedding planning and self-care.

Remember, self-care looks different for everyone, so do what feels right for you and your budget. Taking care of your health and well-being will ensure that you feel your best and can fully enjoy the wedding planning process and your special day.

Wedding attire

White-tie

The most formal wedding attire, white-tie weddings are less common but require a specific dress code. Men should wear a long, dark tuxedo tailcoat with fabric extensions (known as "tails") that reach to the back of the knee. Underneath, a white piqué button-down shirt is worn with a white vest and a bow tie. Trousers should match the colour and fabric of the jacket and often include a satin or grosgrain stripe. For women, a formal, floor-length evening gown is a must, with jewellery, heels, and an elegant clutch.

Black-tie

Black-tie weddings are formal, evening events. Women should wear a floor-length gown in sumptuous fabrics, like silk and organza. A sophisticated cocktail dress or an elegant pantsuit may also be acceptable, but it is best to consult the couple first. Men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow tie, black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes. For summer weddings, a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are also an option.

Black-tie optional

A small step down from black-tie, this dress code is still formal but gives guests a little more flexibility. A tuxedo is not required, but it can still be worn. Women can opt for a slightly shorter dress, such as a tea-length or knee-length style, or a midi look. Men are required to wear a suit and tie, regardless of the setting.

Semi-formal/cocktail

Striking a balance between elegant and comfortable, this dress code is extremely popular. Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, a dressy skirt and top, or an elegant pantsuit with heels, wedges, or formal flats. Men should wear a suit and tie, and darker, more formal colours are best for evening events, with light hues and airy fabrics preferred for daytime affairs.

Casual

For a casual wedding, women can wear a shorter dress or a jumpsuit, and men can opt for a blazer and trousers or a suit without a tie.

Seasonal and location considerations

The season and location of the wedding will also influence your attire. For a summer wedding, choose lightweight, flowy fabrics, and for a winter wedding, opt for warmer materials like wool, cashmere, and velvet. A beach wedding calls for a very different outfit than a ritzy hotel or a castle, so use your common sense and consider the forecast. For a backyard wedding, block heels, loafers, and sandals with sturdy soles are a good idea, and for a barn wedding, cotton mini dresses, bold patterns, and dusty earth tones are appropriate.

Gifts and registry

Wedding registries are a convenient way to ensure that your guests can seamlessly select gifts that you will truly value and use. They are typically provided by an online retailer or store, and allow couples to pick out what they want from stock, which can include anything from small, personalised items to big-ticket investment pieces.

Setting up your wedding registry

It is recommended that you set up your wedding registry shortly after you get engaged so that your loved ones can start sending gifts right away. You can update your registry throughout your engagement, so don't worry if you don't have a complete list right away. It's a good idea to include a lot of options for guests to choose from, with gifts at various price points, so not all the registered gifts are purchased at once.

What to include in your wedding registry

You can include anything you like on your wedding registry, but traditional items include kitchen appliances, tableware, bed and bath linens, and home decor. You can also add subscription services, gift cards, and other leisure items. If you already live with your partner, you may want to focus on upgrading old purchases with higher-quality items, or ask for experiences or donations to charity instead.

Wedding registry etiquette

It is considered taboo to request only financial gifts, and you should not include your wedding registry information on your invitations. Instead, provide the information and corresponding links on your wedding website, on a separate page dedicated to the registry. It is also important to send thank-you notes to all your guests for their gifts.

Frequently asked questions