How many couples enter into their wedding planning journey with zero experience and no clue what to do? Most of them! So if you’re feeling completely clueless and overwhelmed, you aren’t alone. As a former wedding planner, there were a few lessons that even I had to learn by planning my own wedding. So, to prevent you from the stress of figuring it all out on your own, here are 5 things I wish I knew before planning my wedding.
1. Timing is everything
Wedding planning is an art that involves very delicate timing. Send out save the dates before you pick your wedding venue? You may have to uninvite a handful of guests if they just won’t fit in. Bought your wedding dress three years too early? Well, it may be out of style by the time it gets to your Big Day or it might not fit.
Timing really is everything and if you can nail that, wedding planning will be a breeze.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Choose the type of wedding you want (such as big or small, traditional or modern, as well as the type of style you’re after)
- Set your date
- Create a rough guest list
- Work out your budget
- Then start booking suppliers
Listen to: Episode 55 – This Is The Correct Order To Choose Your Wedding Suppliers
2. It’s not all about me
“Your day, your way” is still 100% true, but the experience of your guests is pretty important too. Everybody has an opinion, and I’m certainly not suggesting that you listen to every single thing that is suggested. Rather, take into account how you can make your day really special for your loved ones. The whole point is to celebrate your love with those who have supported your relationship and cheered you on. Make it great for them!
Here’s what I recommend:
- Make it easy for guests to RSVP (tell them WHEN to RSVP and HOW to do it)
- Seat them thoughtfully (no singles table, keep the seats closest to the speeches for guests who are hard of hearing or vision impaired, kids at their own table but near their parents)
- Think about what’s important to them (give them something to do and somewhere to sit)
- Consider the weather (help keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter)
Listen to: Episode 22 – The Best Ways To Look After Your Wedding Guests
3. Don’t make decisions based on price
You get what you pay for. If you choose wedding suppliers based entirely on price, you may miss out on some really incredible suppliers who would be willing to offer a reduced rate if only you’d ask. By doing everything on the cheap, you put yourself at risk of hiring a supplier who isn’t qualified or experienced and may do more damage than good.
There are some genius ways to save money while wedding planning, but booking cheap suppliers isn’t it!
Here’s what I recommend:
- Consider an all-inclusive package (such as a wedding venue that comes with all the tables, chairs, linens, etc and a wedding coordinator)
- Choose an off-peak wedding date (you’ll find that many suppliers and venues have off-peak rates)
- Look for bridal sample sales (you can find amazing wedding dresses at reduced prices)
- Save money on wedding photos strategically (don’t ask a friend to do it for free – ask if there’s a payment plan, enquire about packages and see if there are extras you don’t need which you can eliminate, ask if the price will change if the photographer only captures parts of the day)
Read: How To Afford Your Dream Wedding Suppliers (In A Cost Of Living Crisis)
4. Trends go out of date quickly
If you’ve ever looked at your parents’ wedding photos from the 80s, you’ll know what I mean! Big hair and poofy sleeves are a dead giveaway. Instead of opting for the trendiest wedding, why not go for classic? A wedding that will stand the test of time and will still look gorgeous in photos for years to come.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Choose trends strategically – I’m not suggesting you forgo all the trends!
- Opt for more classic wedding elements, particularly when it comes to the style and attire.
- Put a big focus on the experience of the guests compared to how everything will look – people will remember an amazing band or meal more than a great centrepiece on the table.
5. The day flies by, no really, it does!
Every week, in our Real Wedding features, couples remind us that the day goes by really quickly. So, yes this one is a bit of a cheat because I totally knew this, but I didn’t really believe it. I mean how fast could the day go by?
There are a few really simple things you can do to be fully present and get the most out of your Big Day without feeling like it’s rushing by.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Add wiggle room to your timeline so you aren’t rushing from one event to the next.
- Be OK showing emotions.
- Consider getting ready together, or maybe having a First Look.
- Share private vows.
- Enjoy your meal together and make a point of spending time with one another on the day.
- Sneak out for some alone time.
Listen to: Episode 47: Ways To Be Fully Present On Your Wedding Day (includes some bonus tips)
