A wedding is a huge step in a couple’s relationship. It’s not just about loving and supporting one another, it’s a promise to the world that they will always be there for each other, through thick and thin. This is why many couples take the time to create a ceremony that reflects their unique relationship, values and story.
There are also many other things that make a wedding a special event, like family traditions, cultural customs or even a creative send-off that embodies your theme. These elements can bring people together in a way that makes them feel connected and excited for the future of the couple.
Creating a guest list is a big deal and it should be done early in the planning process. This is because vendors will ask for your guest count when they schedule consultations and bookings. Sit down with your partner and key family members to make sure you have a final number in mind, which will help determine your budget. Also, consider who is getting a plus-one and whether or not you’re inviting children to the wedding.
Once you have your guest list finalized, you can move on to other planning essentials. One of the most important is choosing your officiant, which will not only set the tone for your ceremony but will usher you into your marriage and your life together. It’s a good idea to thoroughly interview candidates and obtain reviews and recommendations before making your decision.
Next, you’ll need to decide on a style for your wedding day. This will guide your choices for the rest of the details, such as your decor, food and drinks, and entertainment. A lot of couples are inspired by specific wedding colors or seasonal or style-based inspiration, but you could also go with an overall design concept. A few popular options include a romantic garden wedding, rustic barn wedding or festival chic.
Before your wedding, make sure you have the proper documents to get married in your state or country. Most states require a marriage license and a valid ID. The best place to check is with your officiant, who should be able to give you all the information about what is required and where to obtain it.
As the big day approaches, it’s a good idea to delegate tasks to friends and family members that are eager to help on your wedding-day team. This will allow you to spend more time on more pressing items on your to-do list, and will ensure that all the details are taken care of on the day of.
Probably one of the most fun tasks on your wedding-day to-do list will be opening cards and gifts. Be sure to set aside time to do this with your loved ones and keep track of who got you what so you can send out thank you notes later on. It’s also a great time to update your Facebook status and let the world know that you and your new spouse are officially Mr. and Mrs.