It’s wedding season again, a time for flowers, beautiful dresses, and booking the perfect venue. If you're a bride-to-be, here are some top tips from industry experts to help make the process go smoothly.
Start early
Late planning will drastically reduce the options. This could result in ‘second best, poorer service, and far from a dream wedding. We suggest starting well before the three-month mark.
Make the planning fun
With so much to think of, planning a wedding can be really stressful. Make a celebration out of as many planning events as possible. ‘For instance, if you’re having a dress fitting, meet with your entourage for afternoon tea or bubbly afterwards.’
Get organised
To do this, create a master document with supplier names, contact numbers, and other important details. ‘Not only will you feel in complete control during the planning stages, you can print it and hand it to one of your trusted bridesmaids on the day! With venues, ask two questions. What kind of wedding do you want? And how many guests do you want to invite? Only once you know the answers to these questions should you start researching possible venues.
Take notes
It may feel a bit like being back in school, but take tons of notes when visiting venues or other suppliers. ‘You’re bound to forget the detail by the time you get home. With venues specifically give marks out of ten on things like style, charm, and budget.
Don’t forget the groom
The bride must not forget her groom and the males in the bridal party, and leave them as an afterthought!’ Brides needs to consider what the male will be wearing, how they will complement her and her bridesmaids and the overall aesthetic.
Make a menu you would enjoy
Many future brides and grooms worry about the wedding breakfast menu, and get caught up in the details of others’ preferences and dietary requirements. I always advise couples to choose a menu they would like to eat and pick out their own favourite dishes.
Get your clothes to the venue early
If hiring garments, it is vital they are well tried on in advance, in plenty of time before the wedding… and not on the big day of the wedding, when it’s too late to rectify anything. For children this is particularly important, as their size might have changed from when they were originally measured.
Avoid cake collapse
We have heard some real horror stories about the cake collapsing just before or during a wedding. To avoid this, having your cake supplier oversee the set-up of the wedding cake will help. Then try not to move the cake after it’s been arranged.
Be smart with your budget
If budgets are tight, I would always advise clients to spend a bit less on elements such as wedding cars or favours, but to get the reception looking right. That’s where you and your guests will be spending most of your time.
Think about the lighting
This is crucial to creating the right mood. Candles are relatively low-cost effective ways of introducing lighting. Don’t forget to think of outside lighting too – outdoor lanterns are really cheap and look amazing.
Relax before the big day
It’s easy to get swept up in stress surrounding a wedding. Treat yourself to a little luxury ,it will leave you feeling refreshed and will help you get a good night’s sleep.