08/11/2023
Congratulations!!
You just got engaged!
Now the planning start for your dream day.
Here are some tips to help you on this journey:
1. Do throw the rules out of the window.
The first rule of wedding planning is to remember that there are no rules. It is your special day, and the important thing is that you make it everything you’ve dreamed of— “even if that means disregarding the status quo or politely declining your loved ones’ opinions.”
2. Do finalize your budget.
This should be the first step in your wedding planning process. “Once you have a budget, you can start mapping out the rest of the logistics, such as the wedding date, venue, and guest count,” If your parents or relatives are contributing to your wedding budget, keep in mind that they’re also entitled to an opinion in the decision-making. “If someone offers to pay, consider asking them to put money toward a specific wedding vendor or detail where you’re comfortable sharing control, such as the flowers, music or attire.”
3. Do include your wedding dress, tuxes, shoes, accessories, appointments etc. in the overall wedding budget.
This is often not included, and is such a large, integral line item/budget category that can cause you to unintentionally exceed the overall wedding budget.
4. Do start a Pinterest board.
It will help you organize and get creative with or without a wedding planner.
5. Do put yourself first.
Focus on what you and your husband-to-be want/envision, “not what your parents or your Aunt Mary wants. This is a memory that you and your husband will hold dearer than any of your family members so make sure you’re both happy with what you decide to do.
6. Do pause to enjoy the moment.
If you have time to sneak away and just watch everyone, take a few minutes to breathe and watch your friends/family make new memories together.
7. Spend more money on photographer and videographer than flowers.
Flowers die and no one really truly remembers the flowers at your wedding. However, photos and a video will last forever and can capture memories that you will have forever to hang in the hallway of your home to show your grandkids one day.
8. Take time to have a moment to yourself before you walk down the aisle.
Everything goes by so quickly that day. Making sure that you take the time to have a moment to yourself before you walk down the aisle and really let the moment sink in.
9. Get crafty with decorations.
To save money on décor, see what you like and do it yourself. Get your fiancé, friends and family involved. It just makes the build up to the day so much more special
10. Find a photographer to match your style.
It’s good to find a photographer that matches your style and isn’t going to shoot you like some cheesy staged photos you typically see at weddings.
11. Decide on 5 non-negotiable things for your wedding.
So many times, couples do not discuss this and then their budget gets blown, arguments creep in, stress increases and they get carried away watching what everyone has on social media. As you are going through planning and having to choose between things, or make budgetary decisions, remembering the things that are the most important elements of your day, and putting your money towards those is what's going to ultimately give you what you want and can help you with decision making throughout the planning process.
12. Don’t worry about everyone else’s schedules.
If everyone doesn’t make it, don’t worry about it!
13. Don’t let anyone dictate the rules of your special day.
Refuse to let anyone take the joy out of our special day. If they want to argue about small things or be difficult about accommodation. Just cut them out!
14. Don’t wear shoes you can’t move around in
Bad idea! You will be on your feet most of the time. Make sure it is comfortable.
15. Don’t invite people who is not part of your journey.
They aren’t worth wasting time or money on. Save your guest list for those who mean the post of you.
16. Don’t lose sight of your vision.
From colors to decor, it’s exciting to brush up on the wedding trends of the moment, but don’t lose sight of your initial vision (and more importantly, the budget you set for yourself). Make sure not to feel pressured to add something to your wedding or celebrate in a certain way just because it’s trendy. You should genuinely love every detail you choose for your big day.
17. Don’t forget to relax.
Do not to stress out too much on your big day. “All the work is already done. Now just relax and enjoy it. It will be the best day of your life.