Weddings are meant to celebrate love and commitment. That’s why so many couples choose to incorporate religious, community, and family traditions into their reception event. It’s also why so many people hire a photographer and videographer to capture the memorable moments. And it’s why the average couple has more than 50 guests in attendance at their ceremony and party.
But unless you’re a seasoned planner, the thought of planning your own wedding can be daunting. So, here are some things that you should consider before your big day:
Set a budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid getting caught up in unforeseen fees, as well as ensure that you and your partner have enough money to pay for the things that are most important to you.
Make sure you get a full breakdown of costs before signing anything, including catering, rentals, in-house services, and any additional add-ons or upgrades. This will prevent you from being surprised with any unexpected charges on the day of your wedding.
Create a wish list of guests that will help you narrow down the number of invitees to keep within your budget. Having an idea of who you want to celebrate with you will also be helpful when it comes to selecting attire, food options, and entertainment.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a little help. Your parents, siblings, best friends, and other newlyweds will likely be more than happy to provide assistance when it comes time to plan your special day.
Before you sign any contracts, sit down with your fiancé and determine the top three most important aspects of your wedding. This will help you focus your energies on the details that really matter, and be willing to compromise on others if necessary.
When it comes to registering, it’s smart to ask for staples like sheets and pots and pans, but it’s even more genius to tailor your registry to your soon-to-be-married lifestyle. Are you adventurous? Aspiring chefs? Charity givers? Think about your hobbies and passions to design a registry that’s truly meaningful.
It’s customary to tip some of your vendors after the wedding, especially those who worked at the ceremony and/or reception. Be sure to include labeled envelopes for last-minute tips and check with your vendors to confirm who to tip, and how much.
After all of the planning, preparation, and excitement, it can be hard to return to reality after your wedding day is over. That dopamine rush is going to crash eventually, and you’ll need all of the love and support you can get from the people who witnessed your vows. To keep those memories alive, tell your favorite stories, look at photos, and queue that wedding video you splurged on. This will help you relive the magic for years to come.