With the average cost of a wedding at $27,100 you properly want to make it as perfect as possible. Having a plan is the best way to organize a wedding.
If you are stressed out about planning your wedding then start a list and complete one task at a time.
Get started with this essential wedding planning checklist below.
Table of Contents
1. Decide on a Budget
Before you start doing any wedding planning, you must consider how much money you can spend. This decision is a big one because it will determine every other move you make.
Also, keep in mind your timeline leading to your big day. if you haven’t set a date yet then determine a good length of time to save some money. This can help you if your budget isn’t suitable to complete your dream wedding.
You can also decide to have a smaller wedding as a compromise to having your wedding where and when you want.
2. Book a Venue
The best wedding planning advice is to book your venue as early as possible. Dates fill up quickly, which means you might need to change your venue or wedding date if you wait too long.
Be aware that most venues require a deposit to hold your place. Therefore, you have to decide on one location, otherwise, you will be paying several deposits while you decide on one.
Some locations are also cheaper than others. For example, a church, outdoor, or a small wedding venue may be cheaper than a hotel or hall, so your budget may be a factor in choosing your venue options.
3. Invite Guests
Planning a wedding isn’t complete without inviting your guests. And one of the best wedding planning tips is to send out a save-the-date card before the actual invitation.
A save-the-date card has the minimum amount of information regarding your wedding, including the names of the bride and groom as well as the day of the event. This helps your guests know when you plan on marrying before you have the details finalized.
You can send save-the-date cards well in advance. Even a year’s notice is common to prevent important guests from booking vacations on your big day. Then send the invitation a few months before to display the details of your wedding.
4. Book a Caterer
This wedding planning guide wouldn’t be complete without thinking about food. Besides your vows, the choice of dinner options is one of the most important parts of your wedding.
Guests need to rsvp to determine how much food you will need to arrange. Having a sit-down dinner or a buffet will also affect your serving sizes.
Once you have decided on the number of guests and picked a serving style then you can search for a caterer. Caterers also need to be booked well in advance. However, the venue may include catering options too.
Adding to This Wedding Planning Checklist
This wedding planning checklist is only the beginning of your to-do list. These items are the essential things that must be done well before your wedding date. Be sure to add more items to this list as your day arrives.
Check our lifestyle section for more wedding tips.