Weddings - Before you say "I do"
Planning a Wedding needn’t be stressful. Simply look at the Checklist below, action each one and you will be smiling all the way to the Altar.
Tip
Buy an A4 Notebook. Write each item on the list below on a separate page, so you can make notes about how things are progressing. E.g the page for Wedding & Bridesmaid Dresses – would have so many notes to write about, such as, fittings, adjustments, appointments, shoes etc If the updates are all one page, it helps organise you and you are up-to-date with everything, before finally ticking it off on the List below.
Guestlist - Draw up a Guest list of who you want to attend.
Venue - Book the venues you will be using. Church, Reception etc.
Invitations/Stationery - Order Invitation cards. Use the opportunity to also order “Thank you” cards to send out after the wedding.
Wedding Dress / Bridesmaids Dresses - Shop for one. Make sure the Bridesdmaids Dresses compliment the Dress in Style and colour and are comfortable to wear. (Young Bridesmaids tend to trip over long dresses). Don’t forget shoes.
Clothes for Groom and Bestman - They should all dress alike. Choose colours to match the rest of the wedding party. Including shoes.
Wedding rings - Choose a reputable Jeweller. Find out about warranties and Insurance.
Flowers - Choose flowers that will compliment your outfit. You might want bouquets for the bridesmaids, buttonholes for the men, flowers for the Church and reception. Check bridal magazines and florist’s catalogues to have an idea of the type of Arrangements.
Wedding Cake - Usually the focal point of reception. Before ordering, visit different suppliers. Look at their Catalogues and taste their products before ordering.
Photographs / Filming - See if you can get personal recommendations and ask to see samples of their work. Don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest, go for quality – something you will treasure.
Transport - You might want to hire a Car. If you do, check if a chauffeur is provided. Alternatively, if a friend or relative has a smart car, or even yours -Try it out with Wedding ribbons and see if you like it.
Entertainment at Reception - Choose music to your first Dance. Have music that would make everyone happy. Look through the guest list and make sure everyone is catered for – Young and old. Alternatively, book a band or DJ.
Food and Drinks - You could prepare your own food or have Caterers. Buffets are usually the best as guests can choose what they like. Make sure you have a time that you would like the food to be served.
Wedding Gifts - Some people draw up a Wedding Present list for people to consult (so they don’t end up having 4 Toasters and 6 Kettles). Send it to anyone who asks and they will tick off the item they would want to buy. Some department stores can also organise this for you.
Rehearsal - This is a good idea but not necessary and is best done a week before the wedding. Everyone can check their roles. Go through duties of the Bridesmaid and Best man and check he has his speech prepared. Maybe afterwards, you could all go out for a meal and use the opportunity to thank every one.
Don’t miss this! *•.¸♥ 50 Ways to get the Lady of your Dreams
Honeymoon - Phew! Your chance to get away from it all, relax and enjoy each other’s company. This should be booked earlier on, in your planning. Work out how much you can afford to spend before booking it.
PS. Keep all receipts and ensure you have written confirmation of any thing you have booked along with the details that are provided in the booking. Keep everything in a File.
Good Luck!