18/05/2023
MY TOP 5 TIPS FOR COUPLES WHEN STARTING ON THE WEDDING PLANNING JOURNEY ✏️
1. Write a draft guest list. Without a guest list you will struggle to set a budget. Other key elements such as venue selection will be heavily dependent on your guest count.
2. Set a budget. Sit down with your partner and discuss your budget. Without a budget you cannot start effective planning. It is also easy to get carried away and to start spending. Consider what is important to you as individuals as well as as a couple. It can help to write a list of the top 3 things that matter to you most. At some point couples generally have to compromise on some elements. Make sure you allocate your budget to the things that are most important to you and discuss what you’d be willing to compromise on. Also consider things such as whether you’ll have any financial support from family. Money can be an awkward subject but it’s a discussion best to be had early on.
3. Book your planner. If you are going to use a full or partial planning service, then this is the best time to reach out. A planner will assist you with the next step… Booking your BIG 5.
4. Book your BIG 5. This may be different for every couple depending on what is most important to you as a couple. Generally, your BIG 5 include: Venue, Photographer/Videographer, Florist, Celebrant & Entertainment. It is best to start booking 12-18 months in advance, especially if you have your heart set on someone or something in particular. Wedding suppliers book out early, especially during peak seasons!!
5. Set your date. If you don’t have your heart set on a specific date then this is my biggest tip for couples… WAIT TO SET YOUR DATE!! Have a month or time of year in mind and then enquire with your BIG 5 and any other preferred suppliers you really want to lock in. See when they have availability. This will ensure you have more of a chance booking all of your preferred suppliers instead of finding out that certain suppliers aren’t available on the date you have already locked in. Already locked in your planner?? They can do this leg work for you saving you A LOT of time.