Wedding Planning Ideas
Just got engaged? Congratulations! Now let’s talk about wedding planning… It’s all about being super organised in everything you do. But knowing where to start can be quite challenging. Follow our checklist below to get you started!
Here’re the 5 things you need to do straight away…
1. Set a date
It’s best to have a range of dates in mind before viewing venues. Are you thinking about a summer garden wedding or a romantic “I do” on the beach? Or getting hitched in a cosy, candlelit winter wonderland?
2. Write your guest list
Start writing down a list of ‘must-have’ guests you would like to invite. That would include your close friends and family. Next, add a ‘maybe’ column of people such as your colleagues and friends you may not have seen for years. Once you’re happy with the number, you can start looking for venues and nailing down the date.
3. Research and visit venues
The choice of your venue will influence every decision you make from the wedding themes to the style of your dress. So it’s crucial to research it right away. Some venues are extremely busy during summer seasons. Shortlist your venues and start visiting them as soon as possible.
4. Book your photographer and vendors
Some suppliers such as photographers can get booked up months in advance. Make it a priority to research and book your vendors earlier on.
5. Start a proper fitness and skincare regime
It’s best to start your fitness and skincare routine if you’re planning to look the best on your big day. Crash diets are never a good idea. Start taking care of your skin and hair by eating a healthy diet and using regular facial treatments.
10 things to do as the date gets closer…
1. Choose your wedding dress
This is probably the most exciting and important task of all! Make sure you allow at least six months for completion if you’re going for a bespoke dress, and leave enough time for alterations.
2. Pick your rings and accessories
You've got your rings sorted but don’t forget to plan the bridal accessories you will wear for the day. Traditional wedding jewellery such as pearl necklace and earrings is just perfect to go with your beautiful dress.
3. Order your stationery
Your wedding invites, place cards and menus set the tone for your day. So plan ahead and don’t rush to buy them until you know what colour scheme you’re going for.
4. Send out invitations
Make sure you keep a record of all the replies. It’s totally fine to chase those who haven’t responded. You need to know the number of guests who will attend your wedding!
5. Choose your music and first readings
If you’re thinking about hiring a band, make sure you have it booked as soon as possible.
6. Arrange a gift list and buy gifts for the party
Give some serious thoughts about the gifts you really want. As your new married life begins, you may also want to invest in some classics that will reflect your taste and personality. Don’t forget to buy gifts for your members of the wedding party. Small thank-you gifts like fragrance, wine and jewellery will be highly appreciated.
7. Plan your honeymoon
From locations, hotels to flights, it’s always a good idea to book early as you may find some surprisingly good deals in advance.
8. Sort out the details and logistics
Plan the attire and colour coordination for your bridesmaids and groomsmen. If you choose to buy bridesmaids dresses yourself, make sure you include the accessories that go with it. Organise travel in advance. From transporting guests to and from the venue to getting your supplies delivered, don’t leave this till the last minute.
9. Organise hen do, bachelor party and rehearsal dinner
Delegate the fun hen party plan to your maid of honor and make sure you organise a rehearsal dinner before your wedding.
10. Decide the seating plan
This is always one of the last to-dos on your list. You’ll need all your RSVPs back in order to figure out who’s sitting with whom.
And finally, just 1 month before your wedding day, book an appointment and try out the makeup and hairstyle you would like to wear. Always make a list at the start of your planning and tick off the tasks when they're completed. Review it again a few weeks before the big day to ensure all is on track. Relax and good luck!