He asked; you said yes…
Whether it was in front of family and friends, in a romantic location, or just the two of you at home alone roasting chicken (we see you Meghan Markle and HRH Prince Harry), you two have decided to spend the rest of your lives together; the first of many major decisions that will occur between you two. But where do you go from here?
1. Pick your priorities
Many people will say to pick your location or your photographer or your date first. But really, what vendor or venue you decide on first has to do with what is important to you as a couple.
This is a time for the two of you to sit down as soon-to-be life partners in the eyes of the law and make a list of what is most important to you. This entails setting a budget and alotting a percentage of that budget to the parts of your wedding that are most important.
Perhaps it’s the type of food you want your guests to enjoy or the photographer and videographer you want to document your big day. Either way, whatever is your top priority, be willing to allot more money to that part of your wedding to make sure you get what you want.
2. Pick a Date
Wait…shouldn’t this be the first thing we do? Well if the time of year or an exact date are your top priority then yes..and all of your other decisions will be dictated by that particular date and the availability of the venue and vendors you want to work with. However, if it’s more important that you get married at a certain venue, book a particular band for entertainment, or have your reception at your favorite spot, you will need to be more flexible with your calendar.
Whatever that top priority is from rule #1 will determine rule #2.
3. Begin your research
Once you have that top priority down and have deteremined a date based on that priority, you will need to begin your research in to the remaining specifics. This is where you choose the rest of the things that did not sit at the top of the list but will make your day that much more special. Wedding dress shopping, party favors for guests, coordinating bachelor and bachelorette weekends, etc.
4. Stick to your plan!
Remember step #1…the budget of priorities? That’s why it’s #1 because it dictates the rest of your decisions. If the perfect shoes you’ve always wanted for your wedding day cost 1/2 of your $10,000 budget and you listed it at the top of your list, then be willing to go with a less expensive food choice or an off-the-rack dress. If you must have this photographer, who you’ve admired since you were 12 years old, photograph your wedding and their package is going to cost $6,000, then you’ll have to both be prepared to cut corners elsewhere or find the money to make your budget work. Don’t deviate or you’ll blow your entire budget…both for priority wise and monetarily.
5. Have fun!
Many brides, and grooms alike, say that wedding planning was the most stressful time. However, following the above steps will help eliminate some of that worry.
Also, remember, this is the only time in your life that you will be a fiancée! Take time to enjoy the precious months together as husband-and-bride-to-be.
If you would like more information on having your engagement party, wedding shower, or wedding ceremony and receoption here at The Village at River Landing, please call Shelli at 910-285-1487.
