Would you prefer to have a winter wedding or a summer wedding? Do you want flowers? If so, will they be live or artificial? The decisions really begin to pile up when planning a wedding. Whether you’re the wedding planner, or getting married yourself, the tips within this article will be a huge help to you as you prepare.
You will need to make a choice about how much alcohol you want to pay for, and which type of serving will be most cost efficient. Having an open bar can be very expensive if it stays open for hours. Ask the venue you’re thinking of having the wedding at about the different types of alcohol they serve, and what they have in stock.
You can rent diamonds for your wedding if you desire to look great but have a tight budget. This can help you to look more stunning while not breaking the bank so you can stick to the budget you have created.
Purchasing a wedding gown online can save a lot of money. If you decide to go this route, purchase the dress early so you will have time to get it altered. You can purchase wedding gowns for as low as $100 online, but sometimes the alterations may cost you double that amount. Budget in this additional cost.
Transportation is a key element to consider when planning your wedding. Limos should be booked well ahead of time. Also, this is beneficial for people who have consumed alcohol during the wedding.
The most important thing to consider when you get married is obviously the person you marry. Don’t rush into this decision. Your decision to get married should take into account everything that you love–or can’t stand–about your potential mate.
Try talking to local and specialty boutiques and bakeries about individual-sized portion cakes if you don’t want a fatty and expensive cake. Some bakeries are able to make healthier cupcakes that contain less than 100 calories in each serving providing you with healthier options such as fruit- fillings in replacement to frosting, calorie-free sweeteners and gluten-free ingredients.
If you cannot justify the cost of a thousand-dollar wedding cake, consider contacting a local bakery and inquiring about single-serving portions, like cupcakes or cake pops. Many bakeries offer small tarts or mini-cakes that come in healthier options, like fresh fruit-filled, gluten-free or vegan options.
Make sure your venue has enough space for dancing. There is nothing worse than being crammed like sardines while the people around you are trying to do the Mashed Potato, so move some tables and chairs to make the extra room you need to get your groove on!
Take the time to look at the work of different photographers before committing to one. You never want to hire a photographer who doesn’t fit your style. There are online reviews readily available to you, and you can also ask people you know that might have planned a wedding recently.
Choose sweet cupcakes or miniature tarts in tiers over a bulky expensive cake tower. They taste great, are easy to eat and are affordable. Each guest can just grab a cupcake or tart, then put them into special take-out inspired box.
When inviting loved ones to destination weddings, try finding out if they wish to stay for your honeymoon, too. They can all save some money by staying since the hotels usually offer better discounts for the longer stays. This will give them a day to remember and a vacation of their dreams, too!
Choose someone who has an interest in photography that you will enjoy working with. The assistant can help line up family members and round them up for group shots.
Share an online itinerary with your guests, especially the out-of-town ones, so that everyone can plan their schedules in advance. Include relevant information about the rehearsal dinner, reception and so on, so that each person knows where to be.
You don’t want to have your guests waiting as you have your wedding photos taken. The photos concerning the rest of the wedding party should be done in advance. Make a list of all the shots that you want and arrange for many of them to be taken before the wedding begins.
If your wedding includes a colorful cake that will be its own focal point, use rich, coordinating fabric beneath it to set it off. Whether you use a solid piece of fabric or opt for one with a pattern, choosing the right material can help attract your guests’ attention and create a more stunning visual display. Consider the fabric’s texture as well as its color when choosing display fabrics.
When planning table seating arrangements, try to assign your guests so that there are an even number at each table. To keep table conversations flowing, group the people you have sitting at the tables by their age.
Perhaps you would consider a cruise ship wedding, with only a few close friends and family. Doing this will allow you to start your honeymoon immediately after your wedding is done. Some cruise companies even have special rates for those getting married and honeymooning on their ships.
An online itinerary will facilitate a smooth experience, especially for your out-of-town guests. This schedule allows everyone to know when and where they need to be. Your guests will appreciate knowing where they are expected and at what time; consider making a separate schedule for members of the wedding party.
Consider asking someone you know to become ordained and preside over your wedding. They can do so online. This makes your ceremony more personal, while saving you money on obtaining an officiant. First, make sure your area allows this to happen.
If you can afford it, consider a cruise ship wedding, inviting only close family and friends. This will allow you to enjoy your honeymoon as soon as the festivities are over. Call around to different cruise lines to see if any are running wedding specials.
You possibly want to think about fusing two or multiple menus together making the food available diverse and comfortable for everyone present. Add a twist by using ethnic drinks, wedding favors, or dessert options.
For couples who enjoy the jet-setting lifestyle, incorporate thematic decorations that convey a love for travel. Place cards or invitations can be designed in the style of a bus ticket or postcard. You could use a worn leather suitcase to display things such as your wedding program, photographs, or favors for the guest.
When it comes to planning the itinerary for your wedding ceremony and reception, account for every hour. Those that have elected to join you on this important day in your life deserve to enjoy themselves.
As an example, you might want to try a menu that includes popular contemporary fusion dishes. Make it different by including a selection of ethnic desserts, beverages, or wedding favors that you can eat.
Be mindful of what guest may want to do if you’ve having a destination wedding. It may be that guests will already have vacations booked for the days, and they need lead time to accommodate your day. If you can send out your invitations at least eight months ahead of time, it will make things easier on everyone.
If the couple’s families are from different cultural backgrounds, both sides can be honored by incorporating traditions, foods, decors, or rituals from both sides. Everyone will be happy with this compromise.
The aesthetic of your big day should include all aspects of your wedding, even the flowers. If it is a vintage theme, you will want a colorful palate of flowers that hit on the nostalgia of the theme. Bright flowers are ideal for many situations.
Prior to deciding on a destination wedding, be sure you know of the laws of the location. Even the slightest hitch can derail your big days, so it’s best to book your venue, caterer, and transportation arrangements well in advance.
To be certain of having a happy bride on the wedding day, be sure that all arrangements are of a type and quality she will appreciate. You could cause her a lot of stress if she’s doing all of the planning or if there are any surprises that might disappoint her. The bride’s wishes must be followed or you will be facing an angry bridezilla!
Make sure to prioritize your wants when you are starting to organize your wedding plans. For example, if you care more about where you’re having the wedding than who is attending it, put your desired venue ahead of your guest list. Making the lists will allow you to establish a budget. Once you know how much you have to spend, you will be able to set a specific amount of money to each item on the list and be able to stay within your designated budget.
Be sure to begin planning far ahead of the event. A year might seem like quite a long time, but there are many things that must be done. Try to do this fast so that you do not stress during crunch time.
Always do your research before you hire a band or DJ. Ask for references and be sure to call them prior to making hiring decisions. When you make your choice, it is important they know of the wedding date and that you both sign the contract. This is important, as you want the music for your wedding to be perfect.
You want to begin all wedding preparations very early on. If you plan a long time before the actual date, you can choose many more venues and other wedding services. This gives you a better chance to pick vendors that satisfy your needs and budget.
You may be tempted to go with family tradition or suggestions, but this is your day not theirs. Be kind and loving if you have to reject your extended family’s suggestions, but don’t let them dominate or manipulate you. Firmly assert that you (and of course your partner too) have the final say when it comes to your wedding plans. That way you can look back on your wedding day with no regrets.
When planning a wedding, be sure to consider the weather. If it is hot outside, the day of your wedding, your guest might want to leave, if your reception is outside! They may also leave early, if it’s extremely cold at your wedding. Look for little ways to accommodate your guests; for instance, provide some outdoor fans if you are hosting an summer wedding reception in the heat.
Pay attention to weather reports. If your wedding is going to be outside, you need to think of what you’re going to do if rain were to happen. Rain can happen at any time, so be sure there is another option.
Use a credit card that has rewards or other perks to pay for everything. Perhaps you could get miles for your honeymoon or discounts as a reward for your expenses. Organize you wedding expenses to be paid with the card and you will see the rewards quickly add up.
Ask your vendors if they have any recommendations for your other services. Do you think your photographer is awesome? Well they may know of a caterer who is just as good. Likewise, the band members may know other wedding resources that will help you. Not only will you find quality individuals this way, the vendors will probably all work better together if they like one another.
A bride should take the time to practice her smile when looking in mirrors. That way, your pictures will reflect a radiant bride, rather than one who seems uncomfortable or hesitant. A bit of practice will ensure you get the effect you most desire.
After reading these tips, it’s safe to say that you probably weren’t aware of even half of these ideas. And that’s because no one ever realizes just how much goes into planning a wedding until they’re actually staring at it in the face. A wedding is perhaps the most detail-oriented celebration out there, so be sure that you’re using these tips to help you out.
Open a savings account solely for your wedding once you have decided on the date. If you know in advance how much you can spend, you will find it easier to stick to your budget. If you don’t have a marriage date set for yourself, consider starting an account to save money for your wedding for the future.