How to Plan Your Own Wedding
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to take the plunge and tie the knot. Now comes the fun part: planning your own wedding. While it may seem like a daunting task, fear not! With a little wit and a lot of information, you can navigate the wedding planning process like a pro. Grab your checklist and your sense of humor, because we're about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
How Do I Plan My Own Wedding?
Wedding planning is a large undertaking and with that, we recommend starting with setting your budget and booking your wedding venue. Once you have these two set in stone, the rest will easily fall into place. Let's go over the intricacies a bit more on what it truly takes to plan your own wedding.
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Laying the Ground Work Guests and Budget
The best place to start your wedding day planning is by laying down the groundwork for the guest count and overall budget. Let’s dive further into what each entails:
Budgeting
Before you dive headfirst into the world of wedding planning, let's talk about the B-word: budget. Yes, it's as thrilling as it sounds, but it's crucial. Figure out how much you're willing to spend and stick to it. Use handy budgeting tools like The Knot's Wedding Budget Calculator or Clay’s very own budgeting guide to keep your spending in check.
Narrowing Down Guest List
Creating your guest list can be a bit like playing a game of 'Who Would You Invite to Your Dream Dinner Party?' Make a list of everyone you'd love to share your special day with, and then trim it down like you're Marie Kondo-ing your life. Pro tip: if you haven't seen Aunt Mildred in a decade, she might not make the cut.
Picking the Perfect Venue
Now that you have honed in on your optimal budget and guest count, it’s finally time for the fun things: picking the perfect wedding venue!
Location, Location, Location
Your wedding venue sets the stage for your big day, so choose wisely. Whether you dream of a beachfront bash or a rustic barn soirée, make sure it aligns with your vision. Check out websites like WeddingWire and Wedding Spot for venue inspiration, or when in doubt, ask your friends and family for places they’ve recently attended. Nothing beats a first-hand experience!
Ready to Book the Perfect Wedding Venue? Check Out Clay Venues Today and Start Dreaming Big!
Rainy Day Plan
Mother Nature can be quite the prankster. Don't forget to have a Plan B for outdoor weddings. Tents, umbrellas, and a good sense of humor can save the day. It's your special day, rain or shine!
Finding The Perfect Dress
Let’s go down the line of what we have accomplished thus far – we’ve got a solid budget and guest count, found the perfect venue, and now we get to fill that budget and venue with realistic and oh-so-fun things, like your dreamy beautiful dress!
Dress Distress
Choosing your wedding dress is like finding the love of your life—exciting and slightly nerve-wracking. Try on different styles to see what suits you best, but make sure to try on things that slightly scare you. We often times limit what we think looks best on ourselves because our perspectives are skewed. Oh, and don't forget to bring your squad along for moral support and candid critiques.
Alteration Altercation
When you've found 'the one' (the dress, not your spouse-to-be), it's time for alterations. Find a skilled seamstress or tailor who can work their magic and make sure your dress fits like a glove. Make sure to read reviews and see examples of work. There’s nothing worse than a poor seamstress ruining your perfect dress!
Zoning In On Final Decor
This is the best part, DREAMING! Time to dust off those Pinterest-pinning hands and get to work on your dream style and vibe to fill your perfect venue with.
Pinterest Paradise
Pinterest is the modern bride's best friend. Create a new wedding board and start pinning your heart out. You'll find inspiration for everything from centerpieces to color schemes. Remember though, we already have a set budget, now including your venue and your dream dress. It’s perfectly fine to pin gorgeous wedding scapes but keep in mind your budget may cap some of the wild dreams. Treat Pinterest like a guide to what’s attainable and be sure to share your board with your bridal party and your wedding vendors (photographer and day of coordinator) so they ensure your pictures and vibes are up to code.
DIY Route
Get your creative juices flowing with some DIY decor. Handmade touches add a personal flair to your wedding, whether it's homemade candles, hand-painted signs, or quirky photo booth props. Just remember, the key to DIY-ing is the actual doing-it-yourself aspect. Many brides choose to DIY their wedding but are overwhelmed by the amount of work that goes into personalized party favors. Try delegating DIY tasks to family members and bridal parties well in advance so there is zero scrambling on the day of your wedding.
Tasty Menu Decisions
Choosing the right menu is incredibly important. Not only does it have to taste good, but the price per head must align with your initial budget goals. Let’s go over some key elements to consider as you menu shop:
The Best Caterers For You
Of course, food is one of the highlights of any wedding, so choose a caterer that makes your taste buds tingle. Consider dietary restrictions and allergies, and don't forget to have a tasting session to ensure the menu meets your expectations. If the quality of food is worth the price per head, you’ll want to make sure it’s up to par before they start serving your guests and hand you the bill. Also, make sure to read reviews of the caterer and make sure to clarify whether they offer Full Service Catering.
Cake Crusaders
The wedding cake is a work of art and a delicious one at that. Discuss your cake design ideas with a talented baker, and don't be afraid to think outside the traditional white cake box. In fact, a growing trend in recent years has seen couples opting for alternative treats to sweeten their special day. This shift in preferences reflects the desire for uniqueness and personalization, with cupcakes, donuts, macarons, and even dessert bars becoming increasingly popular choices. As couples break from tradition, the wedding dessert landscape has become a diverse and exciting place for creativity and expression.
Capturing Memories
If there were ever a moment to cut back on costs, photographers should never be one. They are incredibly integral in savoring and recalling your most special moments. No one will be able to re-taste the catering food, but everyone will be able to relive their laughs and tears through the power of film.
The Perfect Photographer
Your wedding photos will be cherished for a lifetime, so hire a photographer whose work you adore. Check their portfolio, read reviews, and have a pre-wedding photoshoot to get comfortable in front of the camera. Similar to finding the perfect wedding venue, referrals go a long way in the photography business, so don’t be shy to ask your friends and vendors for a list of photographers they recommend.
Unplugged or Plugged-In?
Decide whether you want your guests to be snap-happy with their smartphones or fully immersed in the moment. An "unplugged" ceremony can ensure that your photographer gets those picture-perfect shots and keeps your guests in tune with what matters most, YOU GUYS!
Entertainment Extravaganza
To party or not to party, that is the question. Deciding the party vibes will allow you to express yourselves and set the tone of the dancing atmosphere.
DJ or Live Band?
The age-old question: DJ or live band? Consider your musical tastes and budget. A great DJ can keep the dance floor hopping, while a live band adds a touch of elegance. This is for you and your fiancé to decide!
Nailing the Playlist
Create a playlist that reflects your musical style and includes all your favorite tunes. It's your party, after all! Apps like Spotify and Apple Music can help you organize your musical masterpieces. Don’t forget to decide if you will allow song requests from guests. No one wants a crazy song that was not approved by the bride or groom to be blasted for all to hear unexpectedly.
Tying a Bow On The Perfect Day
Now that you pretty much have planned your entire wedding, it’s time to tie up those loose ends:
Day-Of Coordinator
On your big day, you deserve to relax and enjoy every moment. Consider hiring a day-of coordinator who can handle any hiccups that may arise. It's like having a wedding superhero by your side.
Pro tip: Choosing Clay Venues automatically adds a certified and highly professional Day of Coordinator to your special day. This includes 2 prep meetings, all-day help on your wedding day, a Day of Assistant to help the day run smoothly, insight into the venue and its capabilities, and a smiling face to hold your hand through the entire wedding day process.
Stay Stress-Free
Remember, the most important thing is celebrating your love with friends and family. So, take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and savor every hilarious, heartwarming, and unforgettable moment. You’ll only experience this exact day once so it’s best to make it count as long as possible.
Common Wedding Planning Questions:
1. How far in advance should I start planning my wedding?
Ideally, you should begin planning your wedding about 12-18 months before your desired wedding date. This timeframe allows ample time to secure your dream venue and vendors, especially if you have a specific date in mind. However, smaller and more intimate weddings can often be planned in a shorter timeframe, typically 6-9 months. We’ve even seen brides plan and execute their wedding in 3 months! Anything is possible if you’re flexible and adaptable.
2. What should I prioritize in my wedding budget?
It's essential to allocate a significant portion of your budget to your wedding venue, catering, and photography, as these elements have a substantial impact on the overall experience and lasting memories of your special day. Consider your priorities, but don't overlook expenses like dress alterations, decor, and entertainment, which can also significantly contribute to your wedding's success.
3. How can I narrow down my guest list without offending anyone?
Narrowing down your guest list can be challenging, but it's crucial to maintain your vision and budget. Start by listing everyone you'd like to invite, then categorize them into 'must-have' and 'nice-to-have' groups. Be honest with friends and family about your limitations, such as venue size or budget, and ask for their understanding. Remember, it's your day, and true friends and family will appreciate your honesty. With new technology, you can even set up a live stream for those who wish to still be a part of your day. This broadens your horizon for not offending others while still having an intimate feeling of having those you truly want by your side on the day of.
4. What are the pros and cons of DIY wedding decor?
DIY decor adds a personal touch and can be cost-effective, but it also requires time and effort. The pros include the opportunity for personalization and the satisfaction of creating a unique ambiance. However, the cons can involve added stress and potential last-minute tasks. If you're considering DIY decor, start early, delegate tasks, and have a backup plan.
5. DJ or live band - which is the right choice for my wedding?
The decision between a DJ or a live band hinges on your musical preferences and budget. A DJ offers a diverse range of songs and can keep the dance floor lively, while a live band infuses elegance and a live performance. Consider the atmosphere you want to create and your favorite genres when making this decision. Also, consider guest preferences, as both options can cater to different tastes.
6. How do I ensure my wedding day runs smoothly?
Hiring a day-of coordinator can significantly contribute to a seamless wedding day. These professionals are experts at handling any unexpected hiccups and ensuring that the schedule stays on track. Additionally, some wedding venues, like Clay Venues, offer day-of coordinator services as part of their packages, making the planning process even more straightforward. A day-of coordinator can be your wedding superhero, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your day to the fullest.
Clay Venue’s is Here to Help!
Feeling overwhelmed about planning your own wedding? We completely get it. Weddings are stressful and yet so beautiful all at the same time. Let Clay Venues help you along this wedding planning process! We hold over 20 years of knowledge in the wedding industry and are ready to chat through all your wedding fears and concerns. Tour Clay Venues today and let’s start dreaming together.
