Just got engaged…. NOW what? After you announce your engagement. Where do you start the planning process.
First things first what is your budget. Start with what is your total budget (maybe ask parents what they would like to help with). Then start your guest list so that you can start figuring out where you can have your wedding. What time of year do you want your wedding to be in. Set a date or better yet pick a month so you can be more flexible when booking. Some areas have months that will be booked out years in advance but don’t be discouraged.
TIP: If you want a certain date in the more optimal months look at least a year in advance.
FIND A VENUE
Deciding on a venue with the aesthetics that will convey the look and aura you want for your magical day. Do we want an all-inclusive venue? Do you want to deal with offsite vendors. Is catering included. How many people can come to the venue. These questions will help narrow down what venue you will want to go tour. Make a day out of it and enjoy the process it’s an exciting time.
WEDDING AESTHETICS
Picking out a color palette for your wedding party that will tie into your vibe of the day. What is the season, do I want a classic all white wedding, what are the trends. What flowers are in season, what color palette for my florals, do they make sense with the vibe? You can create a Pinterest Board and start adding pins here. Here is how to create a board.
Create a board
- Log into your Pinterest account.
- Click your profile picture in the top-right corner of your page to open your profile.
- Click the plus icon at the right side of your screen, next to the filter icon.
- Select Board.
- Enter a name for your board and click the field below Dates to add an end date or a date range.
Look at some websites and see what you love. Here are a few that can help guide you to build your own vision board.
TIP: At this point I would create a design board which just consist of pictures you like. Example 2-3 Inspirational photos you LOVE of the following:
Sign in Table
Gift Table
Welcome Table
Color pallet for flowers
Example: White, cream, pink and gold
Style/Theme
Example: modern, classic, rustic, garden etc.
STATIONERY
Pick one vendor for their invitations to their escort cards and thank you letters. You may even to decide to get extra signage. If you decide to get a welcome sign or bar menu made you will want to see if this vendor can do all. This will also help dictate what vendor you choose. You want every detail to seamlessly fit the vibe of your entire event. Here are some of my favorite websites for your different needs.
OUTSIDE VENDORS
Do we need Coordinator or is this included? Where should we get our cake from or are we just doing deserts? Where can we find a photographer? Is bar included do we need to provide alcohol and how much alcohol for our guest count? Do we want party favors for our guest? Each venue is very different so make sure you know what is included and maybe they have a vendor list you can work form.
TIPS: If it summer maybe get flip flops or fans for your guest. If its winter pashminas or blankets are a nice touch.