We share so much advice with our clients on how to have the best experience planning (and attending!) their wedding. No matter what style of wedding you are having, there is some advice that applies to every single couple.
1. Plan Your Target Budget and Your Max Budget
You’ve heard it from many people: "I blew my wedding budget!". One of my biggest pieces of advice is to work with your partner (and parents or other people if you have help paying for your wedding) to create a realistic budget. This requires a lot of research to get it right. Think about the guest count, location, venue possibilities, catering options, décor, attire, entertainment, and all other costs that you think you might have. You should research local vendors and reach out to only the ones you are really interested in based on style, cost, and reviews. Once you have that number of what you think the wedding should cost, add on at least 10%-20% for miscellaneous costs that inevitably pop up (i.e. hair and makeup trials, shipping costs for sending invites). Don’t forget gratuities in your planning, see our post on how to calculate tips for your hardworking vendors!
2. Stick to Your Own Styles
You and your partner likely have your own tastes and likes for décor, food, music, and everything else! Regardless of who is paying for your wedding, make sure you stick to what represents you the best. It’s really nice and encouraged to take your parents and other family members suggestions into consideration. If there is something that is truly important to your parents and they are gifting you the wedding, consider it if it’s something you also like. Have really open conversations with anyone involved with the payment and planning to avoid resentment and awkward situations!
3. Hire a Planner, Coordinator, or an Extra Set of Hands
Well, yes, I’m biased, but HIRE SOME HELP! Hire a wedding planner if you don’t like caring about the fine details and want someone to vet your vendors and stay on budget. Hire a coordinator if you want to save a bit of money but still want someone to handle everything for you on the day! Even consider hiring a family friend or a friend of a friend to be your personal assistant for the day! If something comes up, they can help you solve the problem while you get ready! At the absolute very least, appoint a member of the bridal party or family member to be a point of contact for your wedding planner and to hang onto your important items.
Want More Wedding Planning Help?
Reach out to us today for advice and information on how to have the best time planning your wedding!
Photo Credit: Captures By Justine