Okay,
the ring is perfect and now the big day needs to be, too.
But could it
be any more overwhelming? There’s so much to think about.
Take the time now to develop a game plan that both of you can
agree on—it will save you headaches later, guaranteed!
Always start with a budget. Agree on your overall, maximum budget
and find out how much help, if any, you will receive from your
families. To help you whittle down the choices and determine the
budget for the wedding of your dreams, take a deep breath and consider
these questions:
Wedding style
1. Do you want a traditional celebration, or do you want to keep
it simple and intimate?
Will the wedding be large and lavish, or just a few people?
2. If a destination wedding is more to your liking, where will
you go?
Will guests be invited or will it be a private ceremony with
a party afterwards?
3. What is the maximum number of guests you want to invite?
How much can that list be pared down if needed?
4. Will it be a traditional affair—throwing the garter
and bouquet, toasts, receiving line—or just a party?
The wedding party
1. Do you want a wedding party?
How many people should be involved?
Should there be a balance between bridesmaids and groomsmen?
2. What kind of gifts will you give them?
Will you buy the gifts or make them yourself?
Reception
1. How far from the wedding site would you like the reception
to be?
Will you need to hire a limousine?
2. Will there be dancing?
3. Open bar?
4. Live music or deejay?
5. Will children be permitted?
6. What about food—sit-down dinner, buffet dinner or just hors d’oeuvres
and drinks?
Wedding service providers
1. Should you hire a professional photographer and/or videographer or will
helpful friends and family be good enough?
2. Can the same flowers be used at the ceremony and the reception?
3. Does the reception venue provide a cake or do you plan to order one from
a baker?
Ceremony
1. Will it be a formal or informal ceremony? Afternoon or evening?
Indoor or outdoor?
2. Who will officiate your marriage?
There are countless
more topics to consider, but the aforementioned will provide
a foundation for your vision. Talk with your fiancé,
your friends and family, and tailor a day that will be remembered
for years to come. – SCB
