Getting married is one of the most exciting times in your life; it’s a milestone you’ll never forget. But let’s face it, the actual planning process can be complicated and overwhelming. With so many arrangements to make and events to schedule, it’s easy to overlook some of the less-compelling details of your big day. To avoid forgetting the little things, add these tips to your to-do list.
Put Together a Wedding Website
If you haven’t already, create a wedding website before you send out your save-the-dates. Not only is this a cost-effective tool for you, but it’s also an organized, one-stop shop for your guests. Keep them up-to-date on wedding day details, organize RSVPs, add hotel booking information for those coming from out of town, and even share your registry for easier access. You won’t regret something that makes your life easier!
Budget for Extra
It’s almost guaranteed that you’ll run into hidden fees or unexpected expenses while wedding planning. Since there’s often sticker shock associated with the initial cost of a wedding, it’s easy to forget the little things that add up like a final round of dress alterations, coffee for the bridal party, or even Uber rides. To defer these costs, or at least feel unaffected by them, consider adding a cushion into your budget. Experts recommend allocating about 5% of your total budget to cover any unanticipated costs.
It’s important to keep everything in perspective as you start planning, too. Remember that even when you’re feeling inspired by Pinterest, life after the wedding costs money also! Your big day is important, but you don’t want to spend so much that you find yourselves paying it off while also trying to buy your first home together, travel, or start a family. Consider creating a wedding checklist and budgeting worksheet to help you visualize where your money will go.
Pay Attention to the Weather
Though you may hope to have planned the perfect wedding day, complete with gorgeous weather and the best golden-hour sunset of the season, you shouldn’t put all of your eggs into Mother Nature’s basket. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding or reception, prepare for potential rain, wind, extreme heat, or even a blizzard if you’re going to be a holiday bride. Consider choosing a venue with nearby coverage or booking a backup venue. Having a plan is truly a small price to pay to avoid wedding day and weather stress.
Count Yourselves
You might not think about it when you’re building out the guest list, tracking RSVPs, or booking caterers, but the final attendance numbers should include you! The last thing you want is for the venue or your hired company to show up a few chairs short, so take the time now to check over your guest list and make sure you factored yourselves and the wedding party into it.
While these tips seem simple enough, when you’re preparing to marry the love of your life, the focus tends to shift away from the fine details. Take the time now to plan so that your beautiful day can go off without a hitch!
