Planning A Wedding: Pre-Date Tasks

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and mindset, it is possible to create your dream celebration. Here are some essential steps to help you get started on this exciting journey:

- Take your time: Aim for a longer timeline, preferably around a year, to give yourself enough time to plan without feeling rushed.

- Get organized: Use checklists, spreadsheets, or online tools to stay on track and visualize your tasks and goals.

- Set a budget: Determine your financial resources and stick to a realistic budget. Be sure to include a cushion for unexpected costs.

- Prioritize: Decide on the three most important aspects of your wedding, such as the venue, date, photographer, or band, and be willing to compromise on less critical elements.

- Choose your style: Research and define your wedding style, theme, or colour palette to guide your design decisions and create a cohesive look.

- Involve your partner: Wedding planning should be a team effort. Consult with your partner to incorporate their ideas and make it a fun and bonding experience.

- Seek inspiration: Explore different resources like Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal sites for inspiration, but don't overwhelm yourself. Limit your research time and make lists of your likes and dislikes.

- Research and book vendors: Take your time to find the right vendors, including venues, caterers, photographers, and entertainment. Read contracts carefully and ensure you are comfortable with the terms and conditions.

- Choose your wedding party: Select your bridesmaids and groomsmen wisely, considering their ability to support you throughout the planning process and on the big day.

- Plan your attire: Start shopping for your wedding gown and suit early, allowing time for fittings and alterations. Don't forget to plan for pre-wedding events as well.

- Create a wedding website: Set up a simple website to share important information with your guests, including dates, locations, dress codes, registries, and transportation details.

- Delegate tasks: Don't hesitate to ask for help from your bridal party, family, and friends. They will be happy to lend a hand, and it will make the process more manageable.

- Personalize your day: Incorporate personal touches, cultural traditions, or family customs that are meaningful to you and your partner. After all, it's your day, so make it unique!

Consider the season and weather

When it comes to setting a wedding date, one of the most important factors to consider is the season and the weather. This will impact several aspects of your big day, from your attire to your venue and even your honeymoon plans.

Weather Conditions

Begin by researching the typical weather conditions for the time of year you're considering, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding. While you can generally rely on past records and standards, it's a good idea to continue tracking the weather throughout your planning process. Unseasonable weather can happen, and you'll want to be prepared. For example, if you're planning a wedding in California, you might recall the December/January heatwave and how useful it would have been to have some cushion in your budget for items like fans.

Season and Location

The season you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the vision you have for your wedding. Consider whether you want a relaxed summer vibe or a cosy winter atmosphere. Also, think about the availability of your chosen venue during different seasons, as well as the convenience for your guests. For instance, if you're planning a destination wedding, travelling during the off-season might be more feasible for your guests.

Flowers and Scenery

The season you choose will also influence the flowers and scenery available for your wedding. If you have a particular type of flower in mind, such as peonies or roses, they may be harder to source or more expensive during certain times of the year. Additionally, if you're dreaming of a romantic beach wedding, you'll want to consider the tide predictions to ensure your ceremony stays dry!

Costs and Availability

The season you choose can also impact your budget. The most popular months to get married, such as June and September, tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, choosing an off-peak season like winter might allow you to take advantage of lower rates and greater availability for venues and vendors.

Honeymoons

Finally, consider your honeymoon plans when choosing the season for your wedding. Think about which honeymoons are best suited for the season you're considering. If you're jetting off right after your wedding, you'll want to pick a season that aligns with your dream destination.

Remember, each season has its advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice will depend on your unique circumstances and preferences. By taking the time to consider the season and weather, you'll be well on your way to creating your perfect wedding day.

Think about your dream venue

Choosing your dream venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make in the wedding planning process. The location will affect almost everything else, from the number of guests you invite to the flowers on the table. It's also likely to be the biggest chunk of change you've paid for anything before (unless you're already a homeowner). So, it's worth exploring your options, visiting the top contenders, and selecting a place that fits your guest count, style, and budget.

• Consider the season and weather: Think about the time of year you want to get married and the weather conditions you'd like for your wedding. For example, if you're planning an outdoor wedding, you'll want to avoid the rainy season.
• Location, location, location: Do you want a destination wedding or something closer to home? Consider the convenience for you and your guests.
• Size and capacity: How many guests do you plan to invite? Choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
• Theme and style: What type of venue fits your wedding vision? Do you want a rustic barn, a modern loft, or a beach wedding?
• Availability and flexibility: If you have a specific venue in mind, check their availability before setting a date. If you're flexible with the date, you can start with the venue and then choose a date that works for them.
• Budget: The cost of the venue will be a significant part of your overall wedding budget. Be sure to consider all the associated costs, including rental fees, catering, and any additional services or decorations you may need.

Remember, when choosing your dream venue, trust your gut. This decision is about how you feel when you're there. It's your special day, so select a place that makes you happy and aligns with your vision.

Holidays and events to avoid

When choosing a wedding date, it's important to consider any holidays or events that might cause issues for you or your guests. Here are some things to keep in mind:

National Holidays and Events

National holidays and events can impact the availability of venues and vendors and guests. Some holidays, like Valentine's Day, can also increase the cost of certain items, like flowers. Consider whether you want your anniversary to fall on a major holiday each year. Here are some specific holidays and events to be mindful of:

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Valentine's Day
• Presidents' Day
• Mother's Day
• Memorial Day
• Father's Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Indigenous Peoples' Day
• Halloween
• Thanksgiving
• New Year's Eve

Religious and Cultural Holidays

Be respectful of religious and cultural holidays, both your own and those of your guests. There may be restrictions on marrying on certain dates, and you want to ensure your wedding doesn't overlap with important religious observances. Some dates to be aware of include:

• Palm Sunday
• Easter Sunday
• Passover
• Tisha B'Av
• Rosh Hashanah
• Yom Kippur
• Hanukkah
• Christmas
• Diwali
• Kwanzaa
• Ramadan
• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha
• Rama Navami
• Krishna Janmashtami

Days of Remembrance

Some days of remembrance are considered unlucky for weddings, and it's important to honour them with solemnity. These include:

• Patriot Day (September 11)
• National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7)
• International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27)

Major Sporting Events

If you or your guests are sports enthusiasts, avoid scheduling your wedding during popular sporting events. These events can create conflicts, especially if they are taking place near your wedding venue. Some notable sporting events to keep in mind:

• The Super Bowl
• March Madness
• The Olympics
• The US Open (tennis)
• The Kentucky Derby
• The Masters (golf)

Unlucky Dates

Superstition plays a role in wedding date selection for some. If you're superstitious, you may want to avoid dates like:

• Friday the 13th
• The Ides of March (March 15)
• Leap Day (February 29) in a leap year

Local Events

Check for local events that could cause disruptions or accommodation issues for your wedding. These may include:

• Pride events
• Carnivals or festivals
• Parades
• Sporting events
• Conventions or conferences

Remember to consider the impact of these holidays and events on your guests' availability, travel plans, and overall experience. Choosing a date that avoids conflicts will ensure a smoother planning process and a more enjoyable celebration for everyone involved.

Your nearest and dearest's availability

One of the most important things to consider when setting a wedding date is the availability of your nearest and dearest. You want to make sure that those closest to you can attend your wedding, so it's a good idea to talk to your closest family members and friends about any important dates they have coming up. This could include things like your dad having a work convention he can't miss or your sister expecting a baby. It's important to make sure that these dates are truly important and that the person wouldn't be able to attend your wedding if it was held on that date.

When considering the availability of your loved ones, it's also a good idea to think about other weddings that may be happening soon. It may be difficult for family members or friends to travel on back-to-back weekends, so try to have a buffer of at least a week or two between weddings.

In addition to the availability of your nearest and dearest, there are a few other factors to keep in mind when setting your wedding date. One factor is the time it takes to plan your wedding. It's recommended to take at least a year to plan, as this will make the process less stressful. However, it is possible to plan a wedding in nine or six months, although it may be more challenging.

Another factor to consider is the season and weather. Think about the part of the country where you're planning to marry and the type of wedding you want. For example, if you're planning an outdoor wedding, you'll want to consider the weather conditions during different times of the year.

The dream venue is also an important consideration. If you have a specific venue in mind, it's a good idea to check their availability before setting a date. On the other hand, if you're flexible with the venue, you can set a date and then start your venue hunt.

Lastly, be mindful of holidays and other events that may conflict with your wedding date. National and local events, such as the Super Bowl or local parades, may impact your guests' ability to attend your wedding. Religious holidays should also be considered, as some religions have specific dates when couples cannot wed.

Work schedules

When it comes to work schedules, it's important to try to set your wedding date for a time that's relatively calm at both your and your partner's jobs. You don't want to leave for your wedding while totally stressed about an important work deadline or event.

• Discuss time off with your employers: It's important to have a conversation with your employers about your upcoming nuptials and request time off. This will allow you to focus on your wedding preparations and ensure you're not overwhelmed with work commitments.
• Consider your workload: Think about the nature of your work and the busiest times of the year. If possible, avoid scheduling your wedding during those periods. This will help reduce stress and ensure you can fully enjoy your wedding without worrying about work.
• Create a wedding website: A wedding website can be a great way to keep your guests informed about the wedding plans. It can also be used to communicate any work-related constraints or adjustments that may impact your availability during the wedding period.
• Delegate tasks: Don't try to handle everything yourself. Delegate tasks to your wedding party, family, or friends. This will free up your time and reduce stress levels, especially if you have a demanding job.
• Plan ahead: Start planning your wedding well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure you can take care of any work-related commitments that may arise. This will also help you secure your preferred vendors and venues, which may be in high demand.
• Be flexible: Understand that work commitments may arise, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Communicate any changes to your wedding party and guests as early as possible to avoid confusion.
• Prioritize self-care: Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when balancing work commitments. Make sure to schedule time for self-care and relaxation. This will help you stay focused and energized during the planning process.

Frequently asked questions