- 1). Set your budget. When planning a wedding, the budget is typically the single most important factor to consider throughout the planning process. Determine your overall budget and then allot specific amounts for the reception location, food, apparel, flowers, music, photography, cake, invitations and any other expenses you expect to incur.
- 2). Organize your guest list. Before selecting a wedding venue, determine your expected number of guests. To be safe, assume that at least 60 to 70 percent of the invited guests will attend the wedding.
- 3). Book a location for your wedding ceremony and reception. Since many traditional venues are booked several months in advance, consider an unconventional venue or day, such as Friday or Sunday. Wedding venue ideas include restaurants, theaters or museums. Choose a venue that can hold both your wedding ceremony and reception. If the venue does not provide a wedding officiant, you will need to hire a wedding officiant also.
- 4). Hire a wedding caterer. If your wedding venue offers catering services and the prices fall within your budget, this will likely be the easiest option. If you find that all local caterers are booked for your wedding date, contact local culinary schools for recommendations. If all else fails, purchase party platters from local grocery stores or restaurants.
- 5). Book a photographer for the wedding day. Although many professional photographers are booked well in advance, you may have some luck if you are getting married on a Friday or Sunday. Other options include hiring a student from a local photography school or enlisting the help of a friend or family member with photography skills.
- 6). Mail out wedding invitations at least six weeks in advance. If your wedding will be held in less than six weeks, enlist the help of friends and family members to spread the word verbally. Ask wedding guests to RSVP as soon as possible; a final guest count will be necessary to ensure you have enough food and space on the wedding day.
- 7). Arrange wedding day music. Consider hiring local musicians to play soft music at the ceremony. Or, if you have friends or relatives that sing and/or play instruments, ask them for help. For the reception, simply create a playlist of popular wedding songs on a music device and play the songs over loud speakers.
- 8). Select wedding apparel for the bride, groom and members of the wedding party. Shop at a department store or local boutique and select dresses that do not require extensive alterations. Tuxedos can typically be rented quickly and easily.
- 9). Finalize the last details of your wedding plans. Purchase your wedding ring, register for gifts and arrange wedding-day transportation. Order simple bouquets from your local florist and speak with a local bakery about a wedding cake. Obtain your marriage license according to state/county rules. If you will be getting your hair and make-up done on your wedding day, make an appointment at your desired salon.
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