You may have thought about what your wedding day was going to be like for years. Now your time has come and you can't wait to get started. Then it hits you that it isn't quite as cut and dry as you thought it would be. Holy guacamole! There are so many details and with every one detail there are about a hundred questions, but no answers for any of them.
I've done some research on the topic of what are the most frequently asked questions (FAQ's) that brides ask in forums and in blogs. I then researched the advise of some of the most respected wedding planners have given to these and similar questions. I have also included answers to questions through my own experiences as a wedding invitation dealer and consultant.
There is one question that came to mind without having to do research at all, because I am asked it very often. HOW FAR AHEAD OF MY WEDDING SHOULD I START PLANNING? - The answer is easy. As soon as you get engaged. You should not rush the details, and a year long engagement will allow you to plan with less stress.
If you are planning an informal or casual wedding, of course this will take less time. But, keep in mind that your invitations should be purchased and sent out in a timely manner for your guests to make arrangements, such as travel, accommodations, and maybe even child care.
Things to keep in mind when setting your wedding date. Depending on the time of year that you are hoping to get married, will depend on the availability of a church and/or reception venue. It will also depend on how quickly you have to move on making your plans.
Step 1: Get excited! Woo-hoo! You're engaged!! Tell your parents first (this is a courtesy to those that brought you into the world, unless you are estranged.) Then a few close friends. The ones that are possible candidates to be a part of your wedding party (don't make any hasty decisions), then tell the world!!
Step 2: Announce your engagement. You might want to consider mailing out announcements...but for the love of God and all that is earthly, Do Not use Facebook as your engagement announcement! I know you are excited and want to share it with the world that very moment, and I am not saying that you shouldn't eventually post your engagement on Facebook, for those friends that you probably won’t be invited to your wedding. But, when it comes to your family and close friends that will be a part of your bridal party, do it properly. If you're that excited, shoot everyone else a text with a picture of your ring. Facebook, last!
Step 3: Agree on the details, if you both haven't already discussed this at some point. Some couples do talk about the kind of wedding that they would like to have before they become engaged. If you are one of these couples, the only thing left is setting the date. Some grooms want to be a part of the planning. Then, there are others that just want to know what time and where. If either parents are so much as pitching in a tiny bit, you have to consider them when planning.
Step 4: Figure out your budget. You can't do anything until you know how much you can spend for the entire wedding. This includes;
Don't worry about these details just yet. Just figure out what you can afford to spend on your wedding. This is why the experts suggest to plan it at least a year after your engagement.
