While the holidays and late fall/early winter are the most popular times of year for engagements, we can’t forget about the summer! Even if majority of couples get engaged in the month of December, it’s not everyone. And this post is for all the fiancées of the summer. Once you’ve said yes, the champagne is popped and the wedding-planning begins. They say that the day of your wedding goes by in the blink of an eye. But what many people don’t realize, is that the months leading up to your wedding go by just as quickly.
Conquering these 5 wedding-planning tasks first will help you set the right tone and keep you on the right path to your wedding day.
1. Set the Date
Majority of other details depend on your wedding date. First and foremost set your perfect date. Consider the weather of certain months, any holidays or potential guest availability. Usually couples opt for about a year following their engagement, and while it’s not a set rule by any means it does allow for plenty of wedding-planning time. Think of dates that are special to the two of you, or dates that look beautiful when written out.
2. Determine your Budget
Money matters. And never more so than for your wedding. Will you and your fiance be paying for the entire wedding? Will you be receiving any financial assistance from family? All questions that are important prior to setting that budget. Keep in mind that majority of vendors will require a deposit upon booking their services with a final payment prior to the wedding or immediately after. Once you’ve determined your budget, you can then decide on the additional details. Read our posts on things to splurge on and expenses to skip for your big day!
3. Plan your Guest List
When planning the guest list, start with absolute essentials. Consider whether or not you’ll allow children or plus-ones for your guests. Consider separating guests into tiers, as RSVPs begin coming back, you can send out invitations to the next tiers. While your big day is all about you, it’s always nice to have conversations with family about anyone they’d really love to invite as well.
4. Book Your Venue
Booking the right venue takes time. But venues get picked up quick. Prepare are list of must-haves when searching for venues. Do you need a venue that has everything included? Or a venue that will allow you to bring in your caterers? Prepare ahead of time so that you can make decisions quickly if needed.
5. Book Your Photographer
Like we always say, your flowers will wilt, your cake will be eaten but your photos are forever. In 50 years when your grandchildren will be asking you about your big day, you’ll show them you’re wedding photos. That’s why picking your wedding photographer(s) and making sure they’re available for your date is imperative. And guess what? You’re already reading our blog, so we invite you to take a look at our portfolio and to contact us today!
We wish you the best of luck with wedding-planning! Find our Full Wedding-Planning checklist that takes you from when you get engaged to the night before your wedding day. And follow us on Pinterest, where we are always posting the latest in all things wedding.
