So he went down on one knee, popped the question, you said “yes” and you’re going to get married. As lovely as it might sound, it’s not all romance and gazing into each other’s eyes – you have to plan ahead and work hard in order to have the wedding you’ve always wanted. If you do get down to preparing the event early enough though, and you’re well organized, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy the process.
About ten to twelve months before the big day, you should start notifying people about your decision. If your parents haven’t met your partners’ yet, it’s high time you did that now. Sit down and try to visualize what you’d like your wedding to be like. Don’t concentrate on details yet, just paint a general picture in your head. Is it going to be local or abroad? Are there going to be many guests there or you’re going to invite only your closest family and friends? Summer or winter?
Budget – important issue when it comes to organizing weddings. Decide, together with your partner, how you’re going to come up with the money, if you’re going to take a loan, use your savings or have someone else to contribute. Try to agree on a date and time and pick a few venues you like. Visit them and check the availability for the dates you’ve chosen. Remember to also visit the church you’re going to get married in and get everything organized (if church is a part of your wedding). Also, start making a draft guest list.
You might also want to decide on bridesmaids and best men and ask those in question if they’re going to do it. Organize contacts for a few caterers, florists, musicians, photographers etc. and meet with them to arrange prices, services and all the things you’re interested in. Seven to ten months before the ceremony is a good time to start looking for a wedding dress. When you do find the one you want to stick to, start hunting for appropriate accessories, like veil, gloves, shoes, jewellery, etc.
It’s also time to decide on one caterer and sign a contract with them. By doing so, you’ll have one less thing to worry about and they won’t be able to pull out on you either. The same goes for musicians, photographers, florists, etc. Bridesmaid dresses and best men outfits also have to be taken care of. Remember to carefully check for sizes before you order those. It’s also time to start considering the destination for your honeymoon. Get some brochures, visit a few travel agents, do a little research for best offers and start the countdown!
Four to seven months before your wedding, you should have a close look at yourself in the mirror. Check how you look, feel and how you can improve what needs working on. Take appropriate action according to what you want to achieve (losing weight, moisturizing your skin, improving your nails or growing your hair for the wedding, etc.)
In all this rush, don’t forget about the wedding cake(s). Have your caterer look after these or get a separate person to bake the cakes, tell them what you want on these and how big you want them to be. Agree on details and sign a contract. Take care of tables, table linens, dishes, chairs, cutlery and the likes, unless your caterer is providing all that. Arrange wedding transportation, order stationery for the invitations or get them fully ordered.
Decide on the groom's tuxedo or suit, buy it or arrange to rent it. It’s also time to purchase your wedding rings. You can start thinking of gifts for the wedding party and your parents as well. Think of the guests who will be arriving from out of town or abroad. If you’re planning to sponsor the accommodation, book it now or provide your guests with accommodation offers, advising them to book these soon enough.
You can discuss your wedding menu with your caterer in details about two to three months before the big day. Also, start working on your wedding vows – they might take a while, but if you speak from the heart, words will come to you. Start sending your wedding invitations. Book a hairstylist, beautician, etc. so you look your best on your wedding day. Meet with them to try out different hairstyles and make-up techniques. Start getting all the important documents you’re going to need in order to change your name.
Organize to have your final gown fitting within a month before your wedding. Check with your bridesmaids and best men to make sure they've got their outfits. Also, contact all the outsiders involved (caterers, photographer, musicians, etc.) to confirm arrival and delivery times. If you’re planning on sending ‘thank you’ cards, write them now to save yourself time later. Arrange seating plan, write place cards and look after toasts for the reception. Trying on your wedding shoes and wear them around the house is advisable for later comfort.
Here it is – the wedding day is here. Keep your head up and don’t let your nerves spoil that special day for you. If there are any slip-ups on the way, treat them as part of the fun. Make yourself beautiful and enjoy!
