It is officially Wedding Planning Season! With November – February being engagement season it is officially time for couples to begin the planning process. We have compiled our top tips for stress free wedding planning experience for any couple beginning their journey. You want to enjoy the planning experience and having the right foundation to get started will make all the difference.

Tip 1 – Set a budget!

Even if you end up changing your budget or plans its okay, start by talking money. Weddings do not need to be a financial drain or burden to be magical, but I want you to be prepared for the cost of things. Just like buying a car, I don’t want you to experience sticker shock, if you were expecting a Mercedes on a Honda budget. 

Start with completing the Easy Budget Tool (Click Here to request your free download). You can either enter your number of guests or your estimated funds to see where those will most likely get allocated. 

Tip 2 – See tip#1 … SET A BUDGET

We’re going to say it again! Setting a budget truly helps in decision making, design, venue selection, and everything else. Also, know that the single largest expense is food and drinks which is tied directly to your guest count. Need to cut cost? The easiest way is to reduce your guest count.

Tip 3 – Pick a date

Now that you have your finances in order (or so we hope) its time to pick a date! There are several different ways to approach date selection and here are a few.

• Dream date – it is all the rage to select a date with numeric significance 10/10/2020, 12/21/21. 2/22/22. If you have your budget set and begin your venue search looking for your dream date you will be more prepared for the potential challenges of scheduling on a trendy date. 
• Length of engagement – are you in a rush? This may limit your selection at traditional venues as they often book 12 – 18 months in advance and sometimes even longer if it is a popular or historical site. If you have time to plan (and save $$$) then you will have access to a greater selection. 
• On a tight budget? – Monday – Thursdays are always less than Friday – Sunday. Pick mid-week and consider a breakfast, brunch or lunch ceremony/reception. 
• Season – Avoid peak wedding season to help save some money. April, May, September, and October, are the busiest wedding months and vendors do charge accordingly. Avoid peak season to save money on your venue and vendors.

Tip 4 – Get organized!

Break out the trusty 3 ring binder and organize the event into major sections in chronological order. You don’t need to rush and confirm an officiant before you have a venue and you won’t need a florist until you have a design. You will save hours of frustration and stress simply knocking things off the checklist in order. Think of the event in this order…

1. When are you having it? (Pick your date) 
2. Who do you want to be there? (Confirm your guest count – this will dictate your venue options)
3. Where will it be? (Confirm your venue)
4. What will it look like? (design the wedding BEFORE you pick entertainment, invites, etc – wedding design drives the entire event experience) 
5. What will we do? (traditions, ceremony, dances, toasts – this all drives how the event is laid out and what vendors need to be confirmed)
6. How are we notifying people? (invites, website, etc)
7. Who is coming? (RSVP and contract final payments)

Tip 5 – Get help! 

If you are planning the DIY route, I suggest getting a trusted family member or friend to assist you with the day of details. If you are organized and have a clear vision of your wedding day you are a perfect candidate for the DIY strategy but when it comes to your big day you will want to turn the reigns over so you can enjoy the magic. One person will need to coordinate with your vendors on your behalf plus manage the timeline of events, I recommend a professional or a friend or family member that is willing to lean in to help make the day come to life. 

For couples that desire being more hands off or need guidance, I recommend connecting with a wedding planner and/or designer as soon as you know your date or shortly after confirming your venue (some venues have full service planners included in your venue rental). Brining your planner in early on will ensure your wedding design and event are a cohesive seamless experience. Wedding planning is a long journey but can be enjoyable if you follow our tips for a stress free wedding planning experience.

Happy Planning! ~Christy Leigh Thom