Planning A Wedding: A Step-By-Step Guide For Couples

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. The first step is to set a realistic budget and determine your vision and priorities. Do you want a small, intimate gathering or a grand celebration? Will it be a candlelit evening in a mansion or a barefoot ceremony on a beach? Once you have a clear idea, create a checklist to stay organized and tackle one task at a time. This may include finding a venue, choosing a date, selecting vendors, and deciding on the little details that will make your big day unique and memorable. Don't forget to ask for help from family, friends, or even a wedding planner to make the process more enjoyable and ensure your wedding day is everything you've ever dreamed of.

Budgeting and financing

The first step in budgeting is deciding who will be paying for the wedding. While traditionally the bride's parents covered the bill, this is no longer the norm. It's essential to have open and honest conversations with everyone involved about their expectations and financial contributions. This will help you understand your overall budget and make adjustments as needed.

Next, familiarize yourself with the typical costs associated with weddings. The venue is typically the largest expense, followed by rentals (tables, chairs, linens, glassware, etc.), catering, and alcohol. Other significant expenses include photography and videography, which many couples consider a worthwhile investment. Floral design and decor, including miscellaneous items like a guest book and additional furniture rentals, can also add up. Don't forget to budget for attire, alterations, and beauty treatments for the wedding party. If your budget allows, consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to make the process easier, although this will incur an additional cost.

If you need help financing the wedding, there are a few options to consider. You can look into taking out a personal loan or using a credit card, but exercise caution as these can lead to debt if not managed responsibly. Some banks offer rewards-earning credit cards that allow you to earn rewards while spending on your wedding. Another option is a home equity line of credit (HELOC) if you're looking to make large purchases. Wedding loans are also available, typically ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, but financial advisors generally recommend avoiding this option if possible.

To make budgeting easier, utilize tools such as spreadsheets or budget apps to track your expenses. The Knot offers a Wedding Budget Tool that can help you estimate costs in your region based on data from real couples. Remember to include taxes and tips in your calculations, as these expenses can often be overlooked.

Finally, don't be afraid to make adjustments to fit your budget. You may choose to skip certain elements, such as favors or a DJ, and allocate those funds to areas that are a higher priority for you. The most important thing is to ensure you're financially aware and comfortable with your decisions.

Creating a guest list

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but creating a guest list doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some tips to help you create a guest list that suits your vision and budget:

Determine Your Wedding Vision

Start by envisioning the size and style of your wedding. Do you want an intimate gathering or a grand celebration? Will it be a candlelit evening in a mansion or a barefoot ceremony on a tropical beach? Knowing your wedding vision will help you decide on the guest count.

Set a Realistic Budget

Before finalising your guest list, it's crucial to set a realistic budget. The number of guests will impact various aspects of your wedding, from the venue size to catering costs. Consider how much you can afford to spend per guest, including costs for meals, tables, chairs, and favours. This will help you determine a reasonable guest count.

Divide the Guest List

A practical way to divide the guest list is to allocate a portion to each set of parents and keep the remaining half for yourselves. For example, you can give one-third to the bride's side, one-third to the groom's side, and keep one-third for the couple. If you are paying for the wedding, you may want to increase your share of the guest list.

Prioritize Who to Invite

When deciding who to invite, start with immediate family and close friends. Consider your desired guest count and venue capacity while making these decisions. For extended family and distant relatives, you can set a specific degree of relation, such as inviting only first cousins and not second cousins.

Manage Plus-Ones and Children

Decide early on your policy for plus-ones and children. You are not obligated to provide plus-ones to everyone. Consider allowing plus-ones for your wedding party, engaged couples, or those in a serious relationship. Making your wedding adults-only is an effective way to minimise your guest list.

Be Consistent

Draw a line and be consistent to avoid any hurt feelings. If you make exceptions for certain people, it can become challenging to trim your guest list. Focus on spending time with the people you care about most and those you see yourself remaining close to in the years to come.

Remember, your wedding is about celebrating with your loved ones. Take your time in creating the guest list, and don't be afraid to make difficult decisions to stay within your budget and vision.

Choosing a venue

Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most important decisions in the wedding planning process. The venue sets the tone for the entire celebration and plays a key role in making guests feel comfortable.

Vision and Style

Start by determining the vision and style for your wedding. Do you want an intimate candlelit evening in a mansion or a barefoot ceremony on a tropical beach? Consider whether you want a big or small wedding, an indoor or outdoor celebration, and whether you want to get married at home or at a special destination. If you choose a destination wedding, ensure that it is in a place that supports your union, especially if you are part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Budget

Your budget will dictate many of your planning decisions, including the venue. Consider how much of your total budget you want to allocate to the venue, keeping in mind that some venues may include essentials like tables and chairs, while others charge extra. To lower costs, you may opt for an off-season or Sunday wedding, or choose an all-inclusive venue to avoid managing multiple vendors.

Guest List

The number of guests you plan to invite will influence the size and type of venue you choose. You don't want a venue that is too large or too small for your guest list. Consider whether the venue can accommodate your guests comfortably, and if it offers amenities like parking, tables, chairs, and linens.

Timing and Availability

Decide on the time of year and month you wish to get married. If you have a specific date in mind, you may need to be flexible with your venue choice, as some venues may not be available on that date. Alternatively, if you have your heart set on a particular venue, you may need to be flexible with your wedding date. It is recommended to start your venue search early to maximize availability and allow yourself enough time to find the right place.

Location and Convenience

Consider the location of the venue and how easy it is for your guests to access. Is it close to where you live, or will guests need to travel? If guests are coming from out of town, choosing a hotel or resort venue may be convenient as they can offer accommodations and in-house catering.

Aesthetics and Amenities

The aesthetics of the venue should align with your wedding vision and style. If you have a specific theme, ensure the venue complements it. Don't forget to ask about important amenities, such as access to a bridal suite, setup and tear-down times, noise restraints, and whether they allow candles, live music, or pets.

Reviews and Staff

Read reviews and consider the experiences of other couples who have held their weddings at the venue. Ensure the venue has respectful and professional staff who make you feel comfortable and are willing to accommodate your needs and personal touches.

Remember, choosing a venue is a personal decision, so trust your instincts and select a place that feels right for you and your partner.

Selecting a theme and style

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but selecting a theme and style can help anchor your wedding design and guide your planning process. A wedding theme is a reflection of the couple's personal style and preferences, and it can be a powerful tool for telling your story and creating a memorable experience for your guests. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect theme and style for your big day:

Define Your Vision

Start by envisioning your dream wedding. Do you prefer an intimate gathering or a grand celebration? Will it be an indoor or outdoor event? Do you want a specific theme, such as a candlelit evening in a mansion or a barefoot ceremony on a tropical beach? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and guide your planning process.

Consider Your Personality and Taste

Your wedding theme should represent your taste and incorporate elements that feel true to who you are as a couple. Consider your favourite colours, your home decor style, and the overall vibe you want to create. Browse Pinterest boards and wedding websites for inspiration, but remember to stay true to your unique style.

Choose a Timeless Theme

While it's tempting to follow the latest trends, consider choosing a classic and timeless theme that will stand the test of time. You don't want to look back and wish you had opted for a more enduring style instead of a fad that may not age well.

Think About the Season

The time of year can greatly influence your theme. For example, a beach-themed wedding might not be ideal if your wedding is in the middle of winter. Consider seasonal details such as incorporating autumnal colours and foliage for a fall wedding or glitter and bright whites for a winter wonderland theme.

Prioritize Your Preferences

Sit down with your partner and determine your top priorities. Whether it's the venue, the date, the photographer, or the entertainment, aligning your preferences will help you stay within your budget and focus your efforts on what truly matters to both of you.

Create a Structured Planning Timeline

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, create a structured wedding planning checklist and timeline. Break down the planning process into manageable tasks, setting deadlines for each, and don't forget to utilise online tools, checklists, and spreadsheets to stay organised.

Photography and videography

Planning the photography and videography for your wedding is an important step in the overall wedding planning process. It is a fun part of the planning, but it can also be overwhelming, so it is important to be prepared and give yourself enough time.

First, you should decide whether you want to hire a professional photographer and videographer, or whether you will ask friends and family to capture the day. If you are hiring professionals, it is a good idea to meet with them and discuss your vision and expectations. You can ask about their experience, their style, and how they plan to capture the day. You should also discuss the timeline for receiving the final photographs and video, and any specific requirements you have.

Next, you should consider the style of photography and videography you want. Do you want the images to be light and fun, or more traditional and posed? Perhaps you want a mix of both? You might also want to consider whether you want to include any specific themes or styles, such as a vintage or rustic feel.

Now, you can start to think about the specific shots you want. It is a good idea to create a shot list for your photographer and videographer, so they know exactly what you want to be captured. This might include getting-ready shots, venue shots, arrival shots, and crowd shots. You will also want to include key moments such as the vows, the first dance, cake cutting, toasts, and the bouquet toss. If there are any cultural, religious, or family traditions, be sure to inform your photographer and videographer so they can be prepared.

Finally, don't forget to enjoy the process! Planning your wedding photography and videography should be an enjoyable part of the wedding planning experience, so try not to stress too much and trust that your chosen professionals will capture the day beautifully.

Frequently asked questions