Recently engaged? Or perhaps you suspect the big question is just around the corner? Congratulations! This is one of the most memorable seasons of life. The pretty ring, exciting party, a loving fiancé–it’s all you’ve ever dreamed of…but what comes next? Taking that next step to begin the journey of wedding planning can be intimidating. Where do you even start?
At Twickenham House and Hall, we’ve helped so many brides and grooms navigate this wonderful (and potentially stressful) time. Along the way, we’ve picked up some great tips to planning the wedding of your dreams. So before you check your ever-developing Pinterest board from your teenage years, here are our top 5 tips for wedding planning!
Tip 1: Take a moment to celebrate this season of life!
Getting engaged is a BIG deal, and this momentous time deserves celebrating without the distraction of making a budget or picking colors. Take a week to do nothing but savor your love and this special step you’re taking together. Celebrate the upcoming commitment with your friends, reminisce with your fiancé about your love story, and get excited for not just your wedding but your marriage to come.
During this time, talk with your spouse-to-be about your hopes and dreams for your marriage. While your wedding day is certainly a significant life event, it is merely a symbol of something far more important: your commitment to each other. And don’t forget to flaunt that stunning ring! No matter the length of engagement or time spent dating your fiancé, this time is short in the grand scheme. Say fiancé in that smooth French vernacular and savor this season of life.
Tip 2: Talk to the important people.
When it comes to wedding planning, it can sometimes feel like everyone around you has an opinion and wants you to hear it. Take time to intentionally sit down with your fiancé and discuss the aspects of your wedding day that are most important to you both. Although movies depict men being passive in the wedding process, I promise he has preferences and values for your big day. Is the wedding day going to be indoors or outdoors? How big do you want the guest list to be? Are we eloping or doing a destination wedding?
Use this time to dream together and write down anything that is non-negotiable during your planning process. While you will almost certainly have a difference in opinion at some point, it helps to discuss your desires early on so you can always be on the same page.
During this phase, also discuss your budget with anyone who will be contributing to the cost. Although this number may (and likely will) have to be flexible, setting a budget provides parameters for the rest of your wedding planning process. The budget often influences the previously-discussed aspects of your wedding day. Although the conversation can be awkward, make sure you have it early to prepare and plan your big day mentally.
Also, during this phase, speak with your fiancé about the wedding party size. Who do you want to stand by you on your big day? Choose people who will not only support and encourage you on your wedding day but will also support and encourage you in your marriage as well.
Tip 3: Determine your needs and wants before venue shopping
Once you and your fiancé have chosen a season for your wedding, start looking for venues! This step is full of fun visits to beautiful locations while you scope out the perfect venue. Maybe you want an outdoor ceremony with mountain views or perhaps you’re looking to get married indoors by a rustic fireplace. Whether you’re looking for a destination getaway, private escape, or an intimate celebration close to home, there’s so many options. You’ve got a big decision to make, but this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time together and make each venue visit a date!
Twickenham House and Hall suggests making a “needs” and “wants” list for your venue. Does the location have indoor and outdoor seating? Can grandma make it down the aisle? Is it all-inclusive with chairs and tables, or do you need to factor in that expense? What about wedding planners? Once you find a place with all your needs (and hopefully many wants) with your date available, book the location ASAP! Here at Twickenham, we are booking out into 2024, so the earlier you book, the sooner we can plan.
During this phase, you may have to decide on your guest list. If your dream venue has endless space, you can go however big or small you desire. But if you fall in love with a smaller venue, having a predetermined guest list helps the shopping process.
Tip 4: Create your wedding aesthetic
NOW is the time to go on Pinterest. Now that you’re well into the planning process, it’s time to create your wedding aesthetic and gather the details. Do you want a more classic or modern wedding? What colors do you love? If you have bridesmaids and groomsmen, what colors will they wear? Do you have a floral style you love?
Since you already have your wedding venue, you can plan accordingly with the colors and themes of your location. During this planning process, you can do fun things like dress shopping! Gather an entourage and enjoy your day finding a gown.
Tip 5: Gather your team
On your wedding day, vendors act as your teammates to bring your vision to life. Photographers, florists, DJs - they are all there to make sure your celebration is exactly how you want it. But they book out quickly, so start inquiring early and commit if you love them!
Our wedding planners at Twickenham House and Hall are here to help you narrow down your options. Bethany and Leigh have coordinated hundreds of weddings and can help you discover vendors in the area, as well as make recommendations based on your preferences and budget. They are here to make your wedding day seamless and serve as the head of your vendor team so you can relax and enjoy your wedding day. We also offer catering with a menu that is custom-tailored to your taste and imagination.
Planning a wedding is a whirlwind season of life. Let us at Twickenham help you create a magical day perfect for you and your spouse. Regardless, congratulations on your engagement! Enjoy this sweet season and start dreaming!