Firstly, let me say congratulations! This is such an exciting time for you and your fiance! But now that you are engaged, what comes next?
Well, grab yourself a mug of cocoa or coffee, a cuddly blanket and your love; it's time to start planning.
First, determine a budget. Your budget is at the crux of your big day. It will determine your venue, your bridal party, your guest list, absolutely everything. This is not to say that if you don't have a six figure budget you will have a third rate wedding. Not at all! Your vision may still be within reach; you may have to adjust some things to reach your vision.
For example, you adore the venue. It is ideal, but it's $2000 over budget. So to obtain the dream, consider having a champagne toast and maybe a couple of signature non-alcoholic drinks instead of an open bar. Or, if you are coffee buffs, like one couple who's wedding I did, have a his and her's coffee with fun add-in's -- syrups, creamers and toppings.
So, when (what time of year) do you want to get married? Time of year may determine location -- especially for those who experience all four seasons, like we do here in northwest Ohio.
Once you have a general time of year determined, you can begin looking at venues. I would aim for at least a couple of dates in case your preferred venue is booked. Your venue will really set the stage or feel for your special day. Something to consider when reviewing venues, is guest count. Will your venue of choice comfortably host your guests? It's a good idea to have a rough idea of the number of guests when venue shopping.
Now that you have some of the more tedious things decisions made, let's move on to some that may be a bit more fun -- like selecting your dress and booking other important vendors. Other important vendors include officiant, floral designer, caterer, baker, musicians, photographer and DJ.
You may want to also consider hiring a wedding planner. There will be a lot of things coming at you and countless decisions to be made. Organization is key! Hiring a consultant or planner, even if for only day-of, may be worth its weight in gold. Designs With Love, offers full service planning and floral design for a cohesive feel and look for your wedding day.
When booking a floral designer, look for one who gets your style and feels your vision. Realize there are no such thing as "cheap flowers" or greenery either for that matter. Besides, do you really want "cheap" at your wedding?
Your floral budget should be at least 10%-20% of your overall budget. This, of course, isn't a hard and fast rule. To some, flowers are a huge factor in their wedding and for this couple, their flower budget may exceed 20%
There will be countless decisions to be made and lots of cake to taste. Yummy! Throughout the planning process, remember each other -- the love that brought you to this stressful, wonderful place. Celebrate and live in the moment, taking time for the one you love. It's a stressful journey but oh what a wonderful day you will have!
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