When it comes to weddings, there is a lot of pressure to make the day a truly spectacular event. But, remember that the real purpose of a wedding is to celebrate your love and commitment to each other.
So, let the sparkles and fancy details be a reflection of that and don’t go overboard. If you are worried about budget, consider asking friends and family for donations. You could also choose to do a small celebration only (ceremony & reception in the same venue with cake and punch) instead of an extravagant extravaganza.
The ring exchange is an important part of the ceremony that symbolizes your commitment to each other. Whether you write your own vows or use traditional phrases, this is the time to decide what you will be promising to one another. The ceremony should focus on those promises, which will be reinforced by the music and the minister’s sermon.
Often times, the first decision you will need to make is how many guests you want to invite. This is usually based on who you are close to and how much you want them to be a part of your special day.
It is recommended that you begin planning as soon as possible, up to 18 months out from the big day. This allows you to stay on track and avoid any stress, as well as ensure the wedding is everything that you have envisioned.
After you settle on a date, you will need to book the venue(s) that are a good fit for your vision, budget and guest count. Be sure to ask what the recommended and maximum capacities are, especially if you plan on having both a ceremony and reception in the same location.
You will also need to decide if you are hiring a planner, and if so, what their role will be on the day-of. Many couples do not need a planner, but if your budget allows for it and you are a detail-oriented person, it is a great asset to have someone on hand to handle any unforeseen hiccups that may arise.
Once you have a firm grasp on who you will be inviting, it is important to make sure you have everyone’s mailing address in case you are sending out paper invitations. Several planners we interviewed recommend using Postable or Zola to collect addresses, or just using a good old-fashioned spreadsheet.
This is a good time to book your florist, caterer and DJ or band. Also, if you are having a destination wedding, this is the time to book your travel arrangements and hotel accommodations. Lastly, schedule a hair and makeup trial and a fitness routine to ensure you look your best on your big day. Then, you can relax and enjoy the ride!