A 12-Item Checklist To Materialize Your Dream Wedding

Many people dream of their wedding day long before they even get engaged. And once that dream proposal comes true, planning for a wedding is the next big step. Wedding preparations come with many tasks to complete before being ready to say your I do’s. Without proper planning, you can’t get everything ready to make it as colourful and memorable as possible. 

However, planning your dream wedding doesn’t start until you get the right engagement ring from Dracakis engagement rings or other stores. This ring symbolizes love and commitment. It’d be wise to choose an engagement ring that matches the wedding ring that goes along with it. 

Therefore, if you want a unique ring, consider booking a consultation with Joseph George for a custom-made piece. The ring might serve as a reminder for you and your loved one to remember the wonderful occasions that led to your marriage. 

As a result, it’s prudent to make a checklist that will remind you of everything you need to achieve to materialize your dream wedding. It’s easy to lose yourself in the hustle and bustle of the wedding and end up failing to take care of everything. Don’t worry, as you can read on and check off the following from your to-do list.

1. Determine Your Budget

The first step towards planning a wedding is finding out the cost to cover all the arrangements without breaking the bank. Budgeting may be the most challenging part of planning, as you may end up going overboard. 

As a result, create a budget that’ll adequately cover the preparations by finding the wedding costs in your area. Additionally, research how much your wedding vendors and other utilities will cost and decide who pays for what.

To create a realistic budget, research the right cost of a well-executed event.  The cost will be influenced by the number of guests invited. Consequently, it will have an impact on various factors, including the size of the venue and the amount of food required. To get a rough estimate of your overhead expenses, consider calculating the cost for each guest individually instead of as a group. You can collect the pricing of all the vendors you want and then compile all the costs. This information will let you get what you want without breaking the bank.

Generally, you and your spouse-to-be are responsible for the wedding expenses. But there are instances when a generous family member is willing to sponsor a portion of your wedding costs. As such, you should take this sponsorship into account when making a budget. 

Moreover, remember to keep your saving goals in mind without falling into DIY traps and budget as you expect the unexpected. This means you should set aside a contingency fund in your budget. That way, you’ll have enough money to cover unexpected expenses or those which aren’t generally included in your wedding budget. 

2. Find Your Vendors

Getting the right vendors will either make or break your wedding ceremony and finding the right fit for your big day is vital. The first vendor is a wedding planner who comes with the perks of having access to the best wedding professionals.

However, you can opt to plan your wedding, and visiting the online vendors’ marketplace might get you a publication that will be the right fit for your vision. The essential vendors include photographers, videographers, hair and makeup artists, cake bakers, florists, caterers, and entertainment pros.

And for that extra magical feel, reach out to limo hire Sydney to provide transportation for your wedding party. Consider getting referrals from trusted friends and family who have recently tied the knot. You can check out the vendors that were referred to you and see how well they’ve gotten along with your friends and family. Take your time and thoroughly research every vendor you’ve shortlisted because their style may not be the same as yours.

In addition, take advantage of social media as it has some of the best wedding vendors whose style might complement yours. Don’t forget to consider the vendor’s proximity, the services they offer, and their previous work. If you are interested in how they execute their ideas, you may contact them for additional information.

Once you’ve listed down all the potential vendors for your wedding, conduct thorough research on these wedding vendors to get to know them better and decide which one suits your needs. Then, don’t forget to request price estimates and make a careful comparison. By doing this, you can choose the professionals who will help turn your dream wedding into reality.

3. Choose A Venue

Getting the right venue is a step you can’t skip when planning your wedding. However, you won’t just wake up and find a venue waiting; instead, you’ll have to pick one from an array of options available.

Depending on some factors, such as the budget, the season or date you want to get married, location preference, or the number of guests invited, you can opt for a house of worship wedding, hotel wedding, farm wedding, banquet hall wedding, restaurant wedding, beach wedding, or garden wedding. 

When choosing a venue, consider visiting during your intended ceremony. Paying this visit will help you get the right picture of what to expect and whether it’s worth spending at the venue. 

If you don’t wish to deal with different vendors, consider looking for a full-service venue. Such a venue will offer everything from chairs, linens, catering supplies, and many more. However, consider using a non-full service that only offers you space if you have specific vendors.

But if you decide to go with a wedding planner, getting their input on the venue that may fit in with your theme and vision will be vital. Get a spot that’ll fit all your guests and remain within the assigned budget. 

4. Determine Your Wedding Party

Wedding parties vary from as low as two to fifteen people, with the average size being roughly four on each side depending on formality. Next, you’ll have to choose who to ask by considering whether they meet your expectations. 

Family members generally make great bridal party members as they’re more likely to be in your life five years later.

Find responsible friends or family members for your maid of honor and best man, as they will be in charge of planning most of your wedding events. Your maid of honor and best man should be well organized because they’ll be quite busy.

5. Make A Guest List And Pick Save The Date

Keeping the costs to a minimum is essential when making a guest list. However, chances of knowing many people will leave you in a pickle, and learning how to cut down your employees is vital. 

As a result, when settling on a guest list, divide equally between your partner and yourself. You should decide whether or not you would like kids at your wedding.If you do you will need to cater to them, factor them into your budget and you will need to make sure the wedding is appropriate for underage guests. If you want a more intimate wedding, then inviting immediate family members and closest friends may be an excellent idea.

On the other hand, it’d also be a great time to send out save the dates, especially if you have a destination wedding.

6. Schedule An Engagement Photo Session

An engagement photo session will make lasting memories and get images for your wedding journey. You can use these images for your announcements, bridal suites, and wedding favours. You’ll also have a chance to vet your makeup artist and photography skills. 

Before choosing a photographer, ensure that you consider their editing style and personality. Get a photographer who fits your aesthetic and budget. Additionally, you need to find the right time to take your photos. 

For instance, consider booking a session around ten months before the wedding if you intend to use your engagement photos for save-the-dates. Remember to select the perfect outfits for the photos and go for muted tones to stay on the safe side.

7. Create A Registry

Weddings have many showers and parties, bringing your family and friends together. These parties mostly require gift-giving, and your attendees may need gift ideas from your registry. 

As a result, complete your registry before save-the-dates and include things you genuinely love, such as heirlooms. However, avoid adding many expensive items that may be overwhelming for your family and friends. If you have everything you need consider having a wishing well where guests give money as gifts rather than expensive gifts you may never use. 

When creating your registry, make it personal, even if it feels like you’re shying away from traditional items. However, remember that your taste may change in the future. To determine your registry items, multiply the number of guests who intend to come. Different options will ensure that the options won’t be enough for all guests. Try providing different price points without necessarily registering shoddily-made items.

8. Shop For Wedding Dresses, Suits, And Accessories

Start your research on different wedding dresses ten months from your wedding date and look for styles, colours, designs, and materials. Shopping for a wedding dress needs lots of research from social media, magazines, and bridal registries. 

Get to understand different elements that you love and flatter your body shape. You may not know what you want, and having consultations would be necessary for decision-making. Begin shopping in the beginning as bridal gowns are order made, or you may need to have some alterations made.  

Settling on the suitable wedding gown and accessories that match your theme is more accessible and staying within your budget should be a priority. If your partner also needs a new suit, it’d be the perfect time to look for a great designer.

9. Plan Your Menu

One of the most crucial details that most people will remember is the food served, making your menu a top priority. Think about the guest list and envision your timeline when planning your menu. Remember to pay attention to the season and be realistic about your budget.

Make your menu as unique as possible while keeping dietary restrictions in mind. It would be best to reach out to a local farmer for fresh ingredients that are both economical and fresh. Lastly, find ways to make traditional foods more appealing to everyone’s taste.

10. Shop For Wedding Bands

Wedding bands are a symbol of your love and commitment to each other. Preferably your wedding bands should complement your existing engagement ring. You can use the Larsen Jewellery guide to find out which wedding band would go best with your engagement ring.

Based on your budget, start at the local jewellery stores and try different styles, colours, cut, and carat sizes. If you decide to have your rings engraved, consider the additional costs. Fortunately, there are many providers like Anania Jewellers that offer reliable jewellery services. They can provide whatever you need to ensure you have the best wedding bands for your special day such as engagement and wedding rings, repairs, remodelling, re-sizing and restorations. 

11. Reserve An Officiant

Reserving an officiant will depend on where you hope to exchange your vows. If you choose a place of worship, then a priest, pastor, or rabbi will host your wedding ceremony at a fee. And the best time advised to book your wedding officiant is nine months before the wedding.

12. Ensure Everything Is Ready

Go through every part of the preparations for your final touches and ensure everything is ready. Have your sitting chart prepared to avoid confusion and send out invitations at this point. It’ll also be a great time to ensure you have appropriate documents ready, especially a marriage license. Get your guests prepared by organizing a rehearsal dinner that provides everyone is on board.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, you have this in the bag if you create a checklist that fits you perfectly. And for that perfect dream wedding, consider making a wedding website and explore the numerous options available. 

To make it easier, you may create wedding inspiration boards on Pinterest that’ll act as your mood board. You can also establish a fitness routine and a skincare and beauty routine to get the camera ready.