Planning Your Wedding Day
“Where do I begin? What all do I need to remember to have? How do I start?”
These are all great questions when you’re starting to plan your wedding day. You’re newly engaged, just posted to facebook, checking out pinterest, ready to start picking your colors, your venue, that dress! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed quickly. It’s a big day with lots of tiny details to think about- trust me, I get it! First, take it all in and enjoy the moment- give yourself time to really think about what you want for your big day and go after it!
Your venue and photographer are extremely important to book first- why? Two reasons- They are the earliest to get booked (easily atleast a year in advance) and they are the most expensive on your budget list. Now, this is obviously dependent on your budget and what’s most important to you- if your photography or venue is really laid back and not at the top of your budget, that’s fine too! Keep in mind that these recommendations are simply from wedding professionals, based on our experience and based on the average bride & groom budget. Every wedding is different and that’s the beauty of it!
The easiest way to feel less overwhelmed is to have a professional in the field help you out! Jennifer of Creating Memories Forever is a certified wedding planner in Columbus, who I have had the wonderful pleasure of working with and she is sharing some of her expertise and knowledge with us!
She begins by saying that most couples start planning their wedding anywhere between 12 and 18 months before their wedding date. Below is her quick breakdown of where she recommends you start...
1. Define a budget – This will help you determine what part of the wedding you would like to splurge on. Some couples want to spend a lot on the venue, photographer, or even decorations.
2. Set your date and your venue – It is never to soon to book! Venues are usually booked out a year or two in advance! So if your looking for a specific venue, I would contact them ASAP to book a walk through. Looking for a rustic barn venue? View my favorites here.
3. Book your officiate – you want to make sure he/she won't be on vacation for your big day!
4. Hire your photographer and videographer – This is very important! Be sure to do your research on each individual and the style they provide to their photos/videos.
5. Hire your entertainment – Talk this over with your loved one and decide if you want a DJ or a band. Don't be afraid to ask for a tape of their music or even some references!
6. Begin looking at caterers – You want to make sure the food is delicious, so ask for samples of the food and pricing. Also, begin to think about your guest dietary requirements.
7. Book the cake – Bakers can become very busy during “wedding” season, so you want to be sure they have your date available. Be sure to meet for a sample of the different cakes they offer and shop around on pricing. Some bakers will have gluten free options, so be sure to ask!
She says, “The seven items above is the most time consuming part of the whole wedding planning process! But don't stress about it, and have fun! There are wedding planners available to you, if you need them! Remember, this is YOUR day and YOUR vision and NO ONE else!”
You can contact Jennifer on her Instagram or Facebook for further questions and to inquire about booking her services for your wedding day!
Some things that previous brides dont regret splurging on- a professional photographer and HMUA (hair and makeup artist), an open bar, renting an AirBNB for everyone, and spending good time on bride & groom portraits.
Little details worth considering- shoes with unique details, polaroid cameras for guest’s point of views, a whole invitation set for detail photos, handwritten notes for the bride and groom to exchange, a blindfold for the groom for the first look photos, embroidered blankets for favors, clear umbrella’s if it rains (these make great photos!), custom cookies for place settings, smoke bombs for dramatic photos, a taco bar, a live band for your ceremony or even an ice cream truck!
View a sample timeline here and tips for your engagement session here.
There is so much to think about and plan for when planning your wedding day. Keep in mind that wedding vendors are here to help, and love sharing their advice and expertise with you! We truly want to make your wedding amazing and love helping make your wedding dreams come true. Stay tuned for more helpful advice- and as always, comment below with your questions and advice for future brides!
Gabriella Sutherland is a wedding photographer in Columbus Ohio traveling frequently for weddings and elopements. Click the button below to inquire about your wedding date!