So, you just got engaged?
Congratulations. Now it's time for you to plan your wedding. Being organized
always pays, so we've come up with this handy 12-month checklist to make your
big day fuss-free.
12 months to go
- Research, research,
research: it pays to shop around for the best deal when it comes to wedding
plans, so read magazines, visit expos, surf the net and talk to friends
to find the best choice for you.
- Think
about what time of the year and season appeals to you, and select a time
and day for your wedding.
- Talk to your fiancé
and choose a venue/church for your ceremony and reception. Reserve them
as soon as you can, keeping in mind that some places may already be booked.
So, you may want to have a few alternatives as a back-up.
- Plan a budget. Make
sure you and your fiancé are happy with a set price and stick to
it.
9-11 months to go
- Book a photographer
and videographer. Make sure before you decide on someone that you visit
their studio or see their portfolio so you know what to expect. It's a good
idea to have a meeting with the photographer earlier and let them know what
style and aim you have for the day so they can work to capture exactly what
you want.
- Meet with and book
your celebrant or clergyman.
- Select your bridal
party. Ask the people you nominate to honour you by being part of your wedding.
- Start flicking through
magazines and bridal books to get a feel for what wedding theme you want
to go for. Decide on food and beverage options and start researching caterers.
If you can, book a caterer now.
6-8 months to go
- It's time for the fun
stuff - choosing a wedding gown. You'll probably have a good idea on what
you want, so shop around, or if you're having it made, organize a consultation.
Schedule fittings and select accessories.
- Not
forgetting the groom, it's time to shop around for his attire. If you're
opting for a suit, chose on a colour, style and shirt and tie that you're
both happy with. Don't forget shoes and cufflinks.
- Select and purchase
your wedding rings - again, there are so many options it's important to
have researched thoroughly before making this decision, as you'll be wearing
these rings for the rest of your lives.
- Decide on what outfits
you'd like your bridal party to wear. Schedule fittings for them, too.
- Narrow down a guest
list.
- Select your favourite
flowers and talk to your florist about what type of arrangement you'd like.
Take in pictures of styles you've seen in magazines or books to give them
a better idea of what you want.
4-5 months to go
- Think about what type
of bonbonniere
you want. You may want to make your own to make the experience more personal
(see our bonbonniere range).
- Shop around for a good
make-up artist and hairdresser and arrange for a trial to make sure you're
happy with their work.
- Plan an entertainment
program and if you need to, book musicians and a DJ.
- Select stationary and
go ahead and have fun making it if you like to have a hands-on
approach (see our stationary range). Send out your invites to guests.
It's a good time to organize your gift registry so people can start purchasing
gifts if they like.
- Think about what wedding
cake you want, and if you're having it made, book it in.
- Double check venue/church
bookings for a final confirmation.
- Decide on the type
of transport you'd like to use on the big day, and book in any cars you'll
need.
Next
Page: 3-2 months to The day >>
Author: Emma Carmichael,
Copy Culture
©2006: This article is Copyrighted - it may not be reproduced without
written permission. Permission may be given provided all links, and this message
are attached. Please ask
[Home page] [Contact us]
[Sugar-coated almonds] [miniature
paper flowers] [silk rose
petals] [gold/silver charms] [crystals]
[bonboniere kits] [evening
bags] [organza bags]
[Tips & Hints] [Save-the-date
Magnets] [Custom
Wine Labels]