A Beginner’s Blueprint to Wedding Planning
Hello, wedding planners-in-the-making! Welcome to the exciting, sometimes overwhelming world of wedding planning. Fear not! This guide is for the absolute beginner, tailored to help you navigate this journey with ease, fun, and maybe just a little bit of glitter. Let’s dive in!
Start with the Big Picture
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty, take a step back. What’s your dream wedding? A beach bash, a rustic barn hoedown, or maybe a chic urban loft soirée? Remember, there are no wrong answers in the game of love and weddings!
Budgeting Basics
Ah, the dreaded B-word. But, setting a budget can actually be fun. Yes, you heard that right! Start by prioritizing what’s most important to you – is it the food, the music, the magical venue? Knowing your must-haves will help you allocate funds smartly. And hey, a little spreadsheet magic can go a long way!
Venue Vibes
Choosing a venue can be like finding a new home for your one special day. Think outside the traditional and consider parks, museums, or even a friend’s backyard. Remember, your venue sets the stage for your entire wedding, so pick a place that screams ‘you’! And that is a collective ‘you’, as in BOTH of you. If your partner is not the formal type, then don’t force them to rent out the Ritz and don formalwear to the 9’s. There is a compromise in there somewhere!
DIY Decor
Unleash your inner craft god or goddess! DIY decor isn’t just budget-friendly; it adds a personal touch that no store-bought item can. From handcrafted centerpieces to whimsical photo backdrops, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it’s a great excuse for a crafting party with your friends, family and soon-to-be in-laws.
Food and Fun
Who says wedding food has to be boring? Spice it up with food trucks, DIY taco bars, or even a potluck-style feast if you’re feeling adventurous. And for entertainment, think beyond the DJ. How about a live band, a magician, or even a fire dancer to light up the night? Ok, the fire dance might be a bit far-fetched but you get the idea.
The Dress and The Suit
Your wedding attire should make you feel like a million bucks, not cost it. Explore vintage stores, online sales, or even consider renting your outfit. I recently saw a wedding on Halloween and everyone wore costumes including the couple! Remember, it’s all about how you feel wearing it. If you feel fabulous, you’ll look fabulous!
Navigating the Guest List
Creating a guest list can be trickier than a Rubik’s Cube. My advice? Start big, then trim down. Remember, it’s your day. Prioritize people who bring joy into your life. And as for plus-ones, it’s okay to be a bit selective but think about the guest and if they would feel comfortable coming alone.
The Timeline Trick
A timeline is your wedding day’s secret weapon. It doesn’t have to be militaristically precise, but a rough guide will keep things rolling smoothly. Include buffer time for those unexpected moments – like Aunt Linda’s impromptu karaoke session. I have a free timeline template on Canva you can use – find it here!
Capturing Memories
Your wedding photos and videos are how you’ll revisit this magical day. If professional photographers/videographers are out of reach, consider hiring photography students or asking a talented friend. Remember, the best photos capture the emotion, not just the event.
Stay True to You
Through all the planning chaos, don’t lose sight of what’s truly important – your love and the celebration of it. Whether it’s a geeky cake topper or funky dance moves, let your personality shine through. After all, the best weddings are those that are uniquely, wonderfully you.
There you have it – a beginner’s guide to making your wedding planning as joyful and stress-free as possible. Remember, at the end of the day, it’s all about celebrating love. Your love. So, take a deep breath, embrace the adventure, and let the wedding bells ring!
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
