How to Plan a Wedding!

According to information from Wedding Paper Divas, 40% of couples wait between 13 & 18 months between saying “yes” and “I do”. To help you a little along the way, we have put together a planner of what to do and when.

13-18 Months To Go

• Think about the kind of wedding you both want and from this decide on a budget. 
• Decide on a date. Remember that popular dates get booked up further in advance. 
• Whether you having a civil or church ceremony, make sure you find out all the legal requirements you have to fulfil. 
• Choose and book your reception venue (if different from the above). 
• If you require the services of a caterer, also book these at the same stage. 

12 Months to Go

• Book your photographer. Ask your venue for recommendations, At this stage you may also consider hiring a videographer. 
• Choose (and ask) your bridesmaids, best man and ushers. 
• Draw up a list of guests and send out save the dates. 
• Start your quest for “the dress”! Be aware that some boutiques require 6 months for the dress to be ordered and delivered then there are fittings. 
• Once you have chosen your dress, have a day with your bridesmaids to choose and order their dresses. 
• The guys also need to sort their suits at the same time. 

10 – 12 Months to Go

• Choose a florist and a wedding cake. 
• Book your entertainment, master of ceremonies and transport. 

6 Months to Go 

• Choose the wording for your invitations and order wedding stationary. 
• If you are thinking about starting a new beauty and/or fitness regime, now is the time to put it into action! Ensure that the members of the bridal party and fully clued up as to what there responsibilities are in the lead up and on the wedding day itself. 
• You need something to look forward to after the excitement of the wedding so get your honeymoon booked! Order your wedding rings. 
• Buy lingerie, shoes and jewellery that you will be wearing on the day so you can try them on when it comes to dress fittings. 
• Find your hairdresser and make-up artist and discuss your ideas. A trial will come later on. 

3 Months to Go

• You may already have got responses to your save the dates but now is the time to send out formal invitations and include details of any gift list(s) you have registered with. For ease, set up a spreadsheet and make sure you update it frequently. 
• Decide on menu and drinks choices. Your caterer or wedding venue may offer you a complimentary tasting so you can sample the food prior to your day. 
• Organise your preliminary dress fitting plus hair and make-up trials. They boys also need to go for their suit fitting. 
• Plan the stag and hen parties! 

1 Month to Go 

• Final dress fittings for the bride and bridesmaids. 
• Finalise details with all suppliers (church, reception venue, caterers, transport, entertainment and extras). You may need to book a wedding rehearsal if getting married in church. 
• Your photography package may include and “engagement shoot”. This is a great opportunity to feel at ease with your photographer and they get an idea of the kind of couple you are. Also discuss a list of shots you would like capturing on the day. 
• Chase any guests that have not replied. 

2 Weeks to Go

• Complete the table plan and ensure the reception venue has a copy along with and special dietary requirements. 
• Ensure all speeches have been written (vet if required!) 
• Collect the rings. 
• Start packing for the honeymoon and also an overnight bag for the wedding night. 

The Day Before 

• Deliver all decorations, table plan, place cards and favours to your reception venue. 
• Get nails done! 
• Provide the best man with the wedding rings. 
• Collect suits. Get to bed early and get a good night sleep! 

The Day of the Wedding! 

• Leave yourself at least 6 hours for getting ready. Leave the dress till last. 
• Groom and Best Man to arrive at the ceremony venue at leave 30 minutes prior to the start time. They can then greet your guests as they arrive. 
• Either check yourself or delegate to a member of the bridal party to ensure that the required flowers have arrived. 
• Remember to have a wonderful day! 

Love the #BrideHour Team X