Wedding Planning Top Tips!
Top 10 Tips for Planning a Wedding (Without Losing Your Mind!)
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting—and, let’s be honest, overwhelming—experiences of a lifetime. Between colour schemes, catering, and who sits next to Aunt Edna, there’s a lot to think about. But don’t worry! Here are our top 10 tips to help you plan your big day with as few headaches (and as many laughs) as possible!
1. Set a Budget—and Stick to It (Kind of)
Money can be a touchy subject, especially when it comes to weddings. Sit down with your partner and set a realistic budget before you start booking anything. Trust us, your future selves (and your wallets) will thank you! And while a bit of wiggle room is fine, keep an eye on those “little extras” that can add up quicker than you’d expect.
2.
Make a Guest List… and Then Trim It (Gently)
Creating a guest list can be an emotional rollercoaster, but start by listing everyone you’d love to invite. Then, edit it down to fit your budget and venue size. (Hint: if you can’t remember the last time you saw someone, it’s probably okay to leave them off the list.)
3. Choose Your Venue First
Your venue will set the tone for everything from décor to dress code, so lock it in early. Whether you’re going for a classic ballroom or a woodland wedding, the venue will influence almost every decision you make afterwards. Plus, it’s one of the big boxes to tick, and that always feels good!
4. Remember It’s Your Day, Not Social Media’s
Social Media can be both a blessing and a curse. Sure, those elaborate floral arches and ceiling installations look amazing online, but are they realistic? Are they affordable? Focus on what’s meaningful to you and your partner—after all, no one remembers weddings for having perfect symmetry in the table decorations.
5. Hire a Great DJ
Although music and evening entertainment may be way down on some people’s lists, the DJ, singer or band for your evening reception is essentially the last person you will see on your wedding day and the first your guests will remember! 6 months down the line your loved ones aren’t likely to think too much about the blossom trees and the tables centres but they will have stories to tell about the party! That’s not to say these other things aren’t also important, but splurging a little on a reputable DJ or evening entertainment can really make or break your night, and once all of the formalities are out the way you want to really enjoy letting your hair down!
6. Plan a Day-of Timeline—Then Add a Buffer
Having a timeline will keep things running smoothly, but weddings are infamous for running late. Build in extra time for things like getting ready, photos, and those little moments where time just seems to slip away. Having a schedule will save your sanity (and your vendors’ too!) but don’t panic if you don’t stick to it precisely on the day-any good wedding industry suppliers will easily go with the flow and adapt to make it work.
7. Feed Your Guests Well
Good food equals happy guests! Take the time to find a caterer that fits your tastes and budget. Consider offering a mix of food options, and don’t forget late-night snacks if the party’s going long. Hungry guests = cranky guests, and nobody wants that.
8. Have a Backup Plan for Weather (this is the UK after all)
Mother Nature doesn’t always play nice, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. Talk to your venue about a backup plan, whether it’s a tent or an indoor space, just in case. And if you end up using it, remember—rain on your wedding day is actually considered lucky!
9. Delegate! (Seriously, You Can’t Do It All)
Friends and family are usually more than willing to help, so give them specific tasks. Let your mom handle seating, ask your friend with an eye for design to help with decor, and don’t forget to use the venue’s coordinator if they have one. You’ll be surprised how much easier things are when you let others lend a hand.
10. Take a Moment to Breathe
Above all, don’t forget to enjoy your day! Weddings are filled with special moments that can pass by in a blink. Take a step back with your partner, look around, and savour it all. After all, this is about celebrating your love—don’t let the small details keep you from soaking in the joy of your wedding day.
Planning a wedding isn’t always easy, but with these tips, we hope it’ll be a little less stressful and a lot more fun. Now go forth, plan, and remember: at the end of the day, as long as you’re married and happy, it’s a success!
