Wedding plans - step by step guide to wedding planning

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So the diamond ring is on your finger, and you are excited about the show of public commitment you are about to make. The easy part is done, but then reality sets in. The wedding needs planning, and here is when you might panic, but should not. It is not difficult to plan a wedding — it just takes lots of motivation and organisation. Start at least six months ahead, and share the responsibility between the bride and groom to reduce the stress.

As a couple, it is important for you to decide some basics about your wedding — how formal will it be? How many people will you invite? When would you like the wedding to be? Don’t forget discussions on the budget you wish to allocate to your nuptials. Speak to your families to see if they are able to contribute financially to your wedding and work out what your total wedding budget is.

No matter how simple or extravagant you wish your big day to be, it is vital to stay organised. Allocate a folder to planning your wedding, and put everything you source in it…from your budget breakdowns to deposit receipts. Start clipping magazine pictures which inspire you — photographs will help you when you later need to discuss your requirements with salons, florists and the like. Keep a ‘to-do’ list that will remind you when deposits or balances are due, and the deadlines you may have to make sure everything is ready for your chosen date.

Picking the big day itself is certainly priority. You may have an idea that you wish to be married in a certain month — it is important that you start by contacting a number of ceremony and reception venues to get an idea of their availability. Start by securing your venues - and the officiator who will conduct the ceremony - first and foremost.

Your focus can then shift to the details of the day — the menu, picking the people and outfits for the bridal party, flowers, photographer, band, wedding cake and invitation stationery. Use recommendations where possible, or enquire from lists of local suppliers in your area. Get all quotes in writing, and receipts for any deposits you may need to make. Make sure that you finalise your plans with all the vendors well in advance of your wedding day.

In the last couple of months, get your invitations sent out and collect replies so you know actual numbers. You may wish to make out a wedding gift list, which you can send with the invites. Order your rings and organise any gifts for attendants. You will also need to book your honeymoon well in advance as some popular destinations may be booked up.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Wedding Plans