Planning Wedding

Wedding planning can seem exciting but many times brides and their families find themselves at a loss as to what step is done first, second, etc. Shows and jokes about regarding how reasonable women somehow transform into “Bridezillas” and make everyone surrounding them miserable with their incessant demands and extreme meltdowns. Not every bride goes insane and not every wedding goes awry.

I’ve just become engaged, what should be my first step?

Congratulations on your engagement. It might seem a bit frightening and sometimes overwhelming, it is a great journey. There are some important steps when getting married. The most important step is determining what type of wedding you want. That will play a tremendous factor in the timeline of things that must be done. Once you decide what type of wedding you want, the most important thing is setting the date.

Should I hire a wedding planner?

The question of whether or not to hire a wedding planner comes down to time, money and patience. Even small, intimate weddings require some planning unless you plan to elope. Not going to elope? Okay, then there are things that have to be handled and can best be explained by a wedding planner. This is especially true when trying to marry in a different location or state. A local planner within that area can help immensely by knowing the local caterers, regulations, and area businesses that can help the ceremony and reception be the success you want it to be.

Should I serve a full meal at the reception or just serve finger foods?

The general rule of thought is this: an afternoon wedding requires only light snacks or finger foods. A wedding that takes place after 5 o’clock should serve something more substantial to eat as guests will be feeling hungry that late into the evening after the ceremony is over.

Do you have to follow these rules? Absolutely not, but mention on your program or invitation what type of reception will be following the ceremony. This allows the guests, if you are only serving cake and punch, to eat earlier in the day.

Who pays for the wedding and reception?

Traditionally the bride’s family paid for the entire wedding except the rehearsal dinner, which was paid for by the groom’s family. In modern society it is often the couple who pays for the majority of the wedding. This could be due to the fact that many people are marrying later in life or have been married once before.

Should I have a back-up plan for my wedding and reception?

Always have a back-up plan for your wedding and reception. This is especially true if you are having the wedding or reception outdoors. Mother Nature is unpredictable and no one wants to ruin their outfits, least of all the bride in her costly wedding apparel. Even if your ceremony and reception is indoors, keep back-up locations in mind just in case something was to happen to the site. It is always better to be safe than sorry.