Just Engaged? Where to start

This is an extract from The Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide – To download the full book – Click Here

I always recommend starting as you mean to go on. By that I mean, starting a spread sheet to keep your budget under control. There will be a lot of moving parts that you will need to manage. You can download my free sample wedding template right here.

When you start to compile your potential guest list, set up an additional tab on your budget spread sheet. Over time, you can update with RSVP details, log addresses and make note of gifts etc. This list will also be the foundation of your table plan. It’s worth your while grouping people in their significant groups, that way when it comes to your table plan, you will be able to start picking your 8-10 per table.

It is also worth your while starting a secret Pinterest board. You can log all your inspirations and ideas here so that you have your pictures to hand. It is so handy when you go for make-up and hair trials.

Before we get in to the actual items that you will need to book, you and your partner will need to decide on what your wedding day should look like:

1. When do you want to get married?

Time of year can affect the style, right through to budget. It is important to a have a rough idea of what time of year you would prefer. You may also find that there are price differences between peak times of year versus slower months. You also need to decide if you are open to a mid-week or is if it a set weekend or even a specific date that you want.

2. How many people do you want to bring?

Ah yes, the ultimate debate! Here is where the first wedding quarrel can rear its ugly head either between yourselves or your families! You will need to decide if you both want a big or small wedding. Once you start to think about size, start logging all names in a spread sheet. This will be your blue print to coordinating your budget, table plan and invitation list.

3. What type of venue or location are you thinking of?

Once you know the size of your wedding, you can start to rule out certain venues or locations. By type of venue I mean; castle, hotel, stately home etc. Location could be abroad or within Ireland.

4. Do you have a budget in mind?

This question works in tandem with the previous questions as what you want and what you can afford. These are two very different things! At this point you may want to start to think about how much you can both save. What do have saved already? Will you need financial support from family? Or will you need a loan? You may not know how much to expect to pay, but once you start shopping for your wedding items such as venue and band, you will start to get an idea and then establish if it is affordable.

Once you have answered the initial questions, you should have a better idea of what you want. This allows you to focus your time more effectively.

An example of what could be established:

• Winter Wedding,
• Friday or Saturday night.
• 100-120 guests – no more than 140 and no less than 80.
• Venue such as castle or stately home.
• Budget is total €20,000 including honeymoon.

Having a summary like this allows you to focus your efforts.

Don’t feel restricted by the norms or formalities. Have a wedding that suits your styles and relationship.

Now try to create your wedding day!