The Ultimate Guide To Planning A Wedding In 24 Hours

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be stressful. With the right tools and mindset, it can be a fun and exciting process. The first step is to create a clear vision for your big day and determine your budget, which will drive many of your decisions. From there, you can start tackling the various aspects of wedding planning, such as selecting a venue, finalising the guest list, choosing a theme and colour scheme, and deciding on catering options. It's important to stay organised and delegate tasks to your support system, whether it's your bridal party, family members, or your soon-to-be spouse. While it's easy to get caught up in the details, don't forget to schedule some time for you and your partner to simply enjoy being together. With careful planning and a positive attitude, you can create a wedding that is uniquely yours, even if you're working with a tight timeline.

Budgeting and funding

The first step in budgeting is deciding who will be contributing financially to the wedding. Traditionally, the bride's parents covered the expenses, but this is no longer the norm, and today, various parties may contribute, including the couple themselves, both sets of parents, or a combination thereof. It is important to have open and honest conversations with all involved parties to understand their expectations and financial capabilities.

Once the financial contributors are identified, the next step is allocating funds and planning expenditures. The venue is typically the most significant expense, with couples spending nearly $10,000 on average. To save costs, consider budget-friendly or free venues like city halls, public beaches, or your college/university, which may offer event spaces at no charge for alumni.

Catering is another major expense, contributing to around 24% of the average wedding budget. To reduce costs, consider a micro wedding with a smaller guest list, as catering costs are often charged per head. A smaller guest list can also help you save on stationery costs, which include save-the-date cards, invitations, and thank-you cards.

Other significant expenses to consider in your budget include photography and videography (accounting for about 10% of the budget), floral design and decor (9%), wedding bands, and transportation.

To make your budget more manageable, break it down into categories and allocate funds accordingly. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't overspend in any one area. Additionally, keep careful track of payments to vendors to avoid any last-minute financial chases before the wedding.

While planning a wedding on a tight timeline and budget can be challenging, it is achievable with careful consideration and prudent financial decisions.

Choosing a venue

Start with Your Guest List and Budget

Before you begin your venue search, it's crucial to have a rough estimate of your guest count. The number of guests will significantly impact the size and type of venue you choose. You don't want to end up with a venue that's too cramped or one that feels empty due to a small guest list. Additionally, knowing your budget is essential. The venue typically consumes a large portion of the wedding budget, so decide how much you want to allocate for it. Keep in mind that some venues charge extra for certain essentials like tables and chairs.

Work with a Wedding Planner

Consider consulting a wedding planner, especially if you're short on time. Planners have extensive knowledge of venues in the area and can recommend spaces that fit your style, budget, and guest count. They can also provide valuable insights into the capabilities and limitations of a space, helping you make the most of your chosen venue.

Venue Availability and Flexibility

If you're planning your wedding in a short time frame, venue availability may be a limiting factor. Be prepared to be flexible with your desired date, as venues often get booked well in advance. If you have a more flexible date range, you can increase your chances of finding a suitable venue.

Venue Type and Style

The type and style of venue you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the theme of your wedding. Consider whether you want an indoor or outdoor venue and whether it aligns with your wedding's aesthetic. For instance, if you're going for a modern wedding, art galleries, well-designed restaurants, or warehouse spaces might fit the bill. On the other hand, if you want to incorporate more natural elements, outdoor venues like parks, backyards, or ranches could be ideal.

Venue Amenities and Policies

When choosing a venue, inquire about their policies regarding outside vendors. Some venues have strict rules about using their in-house florist, caterer, bartenders, and planners, while others allow you to bring your own. If you have specific vendors in mind, ensure the venue's policies align with your plans. Additionally, consider the accessibility of the venue, including entrances, exits, elevators, bathrooms, parking, and seating options.

Contingency Plans

If you're planning an outdoor wedding, always have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes. Ensure the venue has suitable indoor spaces or alternative arrangements like tents to accommodate your guests comfortably.

Trust Your Instincts

While it's essential to consider various practical factors, don't underestimate the power of your instincts. Choose a venue that feels right to you. If a place speaks to you and you can envision celebrating your special day there, it might be the one.

Remember, selecting a venue for a wedding planned in one day can be challenging, but with flexibility, quick decision-making, and a bit of creativity, you can find the perfect spot to exchange your vows.

Guest list

Planning a wedding guest list can be a daunting task, but with a clear budget, venue, and timeline, it can be done in a day. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating your guest list in 24 hours:

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

The number of guests you can invite is heavily influenced by your budget. Each guest adds costs for food, drinks, cake, and favours. Therefore, the first step is to decide on a realistic budget and how much of it can be allocated to hosting guests.

Step 2: Choose a Venue

The venue's capacity will dictate the maximum number of guests you can invite. Research and contact potential venues to enquire about their capacity and availability. Opt for a venue that suits your desired guest count to create a comfortable atmosphere without overcrowding.

Step 3: Finalise the Guest List

Sit down with your partner and write down the names of the people you want to share your special day with. Be selective and consider those who are truly important to you. Remember, you are not obliged to provide plus-ones or invite children, unless you want to.

Step 4: Consider Input from Others

Traditionally, both sets of parents may want a say in the guest list, especially if they are contributing financially. Discuss and decide how much input you are willing to accept from parents or other loved ones. Remember, the final decision rests with you and your partner.

Step 5: Trim the List (if necessary)

If your desired guest list exceeds your budget or venue capacity, it's time to make some tough choices. Review your list and consider removing guests who are not as close to you, or opt for a more intimate ceremony with only your A-list guests.

Step 6: Create a Seating Chart

With your finalised guest list, start planning the seating arrangement. Consider the venue's floor plan and whether you will have a head table. Group guests who will enjoy each other's company and try to avoid any potential conflicts.

Step 7: Send Out Invitations

Once your guest list is complete and you have a seating arrangement, send out invitations promptly. Include RSVP cards and request responses by a specific date to manage your guest count effectively.

Planning a wedding guest list in a day is challenging but possible. Remember to stay organised, be decisive, and not to feel guilty about making tough choices. Good luck with your wedding planning!

Wedding stationery

Planning a wedding in just one day is a challenging task, but it can be done. One of the first things to consider is the wedding stationery, which sets the tone for the event and helps guests understand the style of celebration you are planning. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the world of wedding stationery for your big day.

Save-the-Dates and Invitations

The first step is to decide on Save-the-Date cards, which are not mandatory but are useful if you are inviting guests from abroad or getting married overseas. These should be sent six to eight months in advance, or even up to a year ahead for destination weddings, to allow guests enough time to plan their travel. Save-the-Dates can include the couple's names, the date and location, and a note that a formal invitation will follow.

The wedding invitation itself is a more complex affair. It should include outer and inner envelopes, with the outer envelope bearing the recipient's address and postage stamps, and the inner envelope containing the invitees' names. You may also want to include detail cards, rehearsal dinner cards, accommodation cards, and belly bands. It is recommended to choose a design that reflects your wedding style and consider the full suite of stationery to ensure nothing is missed.

RSVP and Other Cards

Along with the invitations, you will need RSVP cards to allow guests to confirm their attendance. You may also want to include Evening Invitations for guests who are only invited to the reception, and Itinerary Inserts to inform guests of any additional activities planned around the wedding, such as a welcome party or a post-wedding BBQ. These can be included as separate cards or added to your wedding website.

Pre-Wedding Events

There are also various pre-wedding events to consider, such as bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and engagement parties, which may require their own invitations. Be My Bridesmaid cards are a lovely way to ask your closest friends to be part of your bridal party, and you may also want to send cards to set the tone for a themed hen party.

Post-Wedding

Finally, don't forget the post-wedding stationery. Thank-you cards are a thoughtful way to express your gratitude to your guests, and you may also want to collect any wedding gifts, décor, and the guest book from the venue the morning after.

Wedding day timeline

Planning a wedding in a day is no easy feat, but it can be done. Here is a wedding day timeline to help you pull off a beautiful celebration in just 24 hours.

Morning:

• Confirm the venue: If you haven't already, choose and book a venue that suits your vision and budget. Consider the number of guests you plan to invite and whether the venue can accommodate them.
• Finalize the guest list: Knowing your guest count is crucial for organizing food, drinks, seating, and other logistics.
• Secure vendors: Contact caterers, photographers, florists, musicians, and any other vendors you want. Be clear about your timeline and confirm their availability.
• Delegate tasks: Ask friends or family members to help with last-minute details. Someone should be in charge of collecting gifts, décor, and any other items from the venue after the wedding.

Afternoon:

• Sort out logistics: Create a timeline for the day, including start times for getting ready, the ceremony, and reception.
• Handle payments: Ensure you have a system for paying vendors, especially those who require payment on the day.
• Prepare for the ceremony: Gather any items you need for the ceremony, such as rings, outfits, and the marriage license.

Evening:

• Set up the venue: If your vendors haven't already done so, ensure the venue is set up with decorations, seating, and any other necessary arrangements.
• Greet guests: Welcome your guests as they arrive and ensure someone is there to direct them to their seats or guide them through any pre-ceremony activities.
• The ceremony: The moment you've been planning for! Enjoy the ceremony and celebrate your nuptials.

Post-Ceremony:

• Cocktail hour: If you're having a separate reception venue, ensure guests have transportation arranged. Otherwise, begin the cocktail hour and allow guests to mingle while you and your partner take photos.
• The reception: Celebrate with food, drinks, dancing, and toasts. Enjoy this time with your loved ones!

After the Wedding:

• Collect items: Ensure someone gathers all the gifts, décor, and personal items from the venue.
• Store your certificate: Keep an eye out for your official wedding certificate, which will be sent to you by post after the wedding.
• Name change: If you plan to change your name, start the process by gathering the necessary documents.

Remember, this timeline is a guide, and you may need to adapt it to fit your specific plans and requirements. With a bit of flexibility and a lot of organization, your one-day wedding plan can be a success!

Frequently asked questions