Planning a wedding can be fun. However, it is no easy task. It usually takes somewhere around twelve months or more to make sure all the details are in place. This includes mailing save the dates, invitations, keeping track of RSVPs, securing vendors, and so much more. But wait, there is good news, if you do not want to spend a year planning, want to be married already, or if you've postponed your wedding due to the pandemic. You can pull it off. That's why we want to share with you our list on How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less.
How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less - Photo Credit: Wedding Dreamz
6 Months:
Set a Budget
First and foremost, on our list on How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less, is to set a budget. Your wedding planner will be able to help you to establish a realistic budget. Determine how much you want to spend and prioritize the things that are most important to you. You may also want to speak to friends and family members who may want to contribute to helping pay for the costs of your wedding.
Secure a Venue
Wedding venues are usually booked at least one year in advance. There is a way around that. Most couples want to have their wedding on the weekend. If you are ok with having a weekday wedding or hosting your wedding on a Sunday, you still may be in luck. Also, non-traditional venues such as wineries, parks, beaches, or museums are an option on our list of How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less.
Choose Your Vendors
Vendors are just like venues and can book up very quickly. Be sure to ask your wedding planner for vendor recommendations and contact them immediately to make sure your date is available. You may have to make several calls since you are planning a wedding in 6 months. Again, prioritize the vendors that are most important to you. These vendors include wedding planners, photographers, cake bakers, and florists.
5 Months:
Prioritize Your Guest List
When it comes to the guest list, be sure to prioritize. This is especially important when determining your budget and venue space. Keep in mind that the more guests you have, the more people you will have to feed.
Send Out Save the Dates
Now that you have completed the major things, when it comes to planning your wedding, it is time to send out the save the dates to those on your guest list.
Find Your Wedding Dress
Thank goodness for the worldwide web. You can get an idea of the type of dress you would like by doing an internet search. With this in mind, scout out local vendors that offer that particular dress type. It would be helpful to bring along any photos. Also, be open-minded to renting a wedding dress due to the time-frame until the wedding day.
4 Months:
Block Hotel Rooms
During this time, be sure to block off hotel rooms for your guests traveling from out of town. Choose a hotel that is close to the reception venue.
Choose Your Wedding Party
If you plan on having a wedding party, this is the perfect time to establish who you would like to be a part of your wedding.
Get Wedding Bands
It would be a great idea to start where your fiance purchased the engagement ring, especially if you want to have a set. With sizing, it could take anywhere from 45 to 90 days for custom ring orders. Do not wait any longer than four months to get the wedding bands to ensure they are ready in time for the wedding.
3 Months:
Cake Tastings
Now for the fun part! Get your fiance and head over to your favorite bakery to attend those cake tastings.
2 Months:
Mail Invitations
Typically, 6 to 8 weeks is when wedding invitations should be mailed. Be sure to get those in the mail promptly to give your guests time to RSVP.
Get Your Marriage License
Visit the county clerk's office and apply for your marriage license. Be sure to bring proper identification such as a driver's license or government-issued identification card.
1 Month:
Finalize Your Seating Chart
Get together with your wedding planner and put the finalization on your seating chart. Everyone who is planning to attend should have sent their RSVP back.
Pack For Your Honeymoon
I know you think a month is too soon to pack for your honeymoon trip. Trust me when I tell you with all that will be going on in the last 30 days until your wedding, now is the perfect time to get packed to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
If you would like to learn more about How to Plan a Wedding in 6 Months or Less, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners.