Guest List Essentials

Begin with the end in mind: envision your wedding's atmosphere to determine its size. Start with close family and friends, then extend the list as your budget allows. Your guest count directly influences venue choice, catering, and overall budget so actually working out who you want at your wedding before you lock in on a venue is really important to help your planning run smoothly.
Make decisions together to ensure your guest list aligns with both your visions and practicalities.

Pro Tip! - I used this for my wedding planning and it helped “cull” the list a little. I just asked my self would I buy or “we” buy this person a drink in a pub, if not then why are we paying £80 - £120 per head on food, lets just make them an evening guest and save it.

Choosing Your Wedding Date

Think season, not just a date. Decide whether you prefer the ambiance of spring, summer, autumn, or winter and how it complements your wedding style. (we will get onto that) This choice will guide your venue selection and help you secure a date that fits both your dream and availability. Flexibility can be key in getting the perfect venue and vendors.
Research: Begin with online inspiration from wedding blogs and social media to see how venues look across different seasons.

1. Match Venue with Season: Pick venues that naturally complement your desired season (beaches for summer, Barns for winter..etc.

2. Visit and Visualize: Tour venues during your chosen season to experience their true atmosphere and ask about seasonal specifics, like rate changes and weather back up plans if you are thinking about any part of the wedding being outside.

3. Guest Considerations: Keep guest comfort in mind, considering factors like travel ease and weather appropriateness can be something to consider as well, what are the local hotels like etc.. .

4. Be Flexible: Broadening your date range can help secure your venue. Off-peak times might offer better rates and availability.

Simplifying these steps makes the process more manageable, ensuring you find a venue that both meets your vision and accommodates your guests comfortably.

Defining Style and Theme

What vibe are you going for? Rustic, elegant, modern? Decide on a theme that reflects your personalities and story. This decision will inform everything from your venue choice to decorations, attire, and even the tone of your invitations. Consistency is key, so ensure your theme is clear and coherent throughout all elements of your wedding.

1. Identify Your Vibe: Start by discussing with your partner to determine a theme that feels true to both of you—rustic, elegant, modern, etc.

2. Theme Influence: Your chosen theme will guide key decisions—venue, décor, dress code and invitations, ensuring a unified look and feel, think back at school with arts and crafts, this can be a really fun part of the wedding planning to help make it all feel a little less stressful.

3. Consistency Matters: Maintain a clear and consistent theme across all wedding elements for a cohesive and immersive experience for you and your guests, try and stay away from querky wedding trends as these will come and go, and you should be able to look back

Budget Planning - Free template here Click to download

Start with the big picture and prioritize. Key expenses include venue, catering, and photography—these are essential for capturing the essence of your day. Break down your budget into categories, allocate funds accordingly, and stick to it. Remember to include a contingency for unexpected costs. Clear communication and agreement on priorities with your partner are crucial for a stress-free planning process.

Smart Saving Tips for Your Wedding

1. Prioritise Essentials: Determine what's most crucial for you both, such as the venue, catering, and photography. These are vital for capturing the essence of your day, so allocate your budget to these areas first.

2. Budget Breakdown: Organise your budget into distinct categories for better management and oversight. This approach aids in making informed choices and efficiently tracking your spending.

3. Cut Unnecessary Extras: Assess each budget category for potential savings, eliminating expenses on things that don't align with your top priorities. Consider digital over printed invitations or simplify your decor.

4. Embrace Flexibility: Being flexible with your wedding date or season can lead to considerable cost reductions. Many venues and vendors offer lower rates during off-peak periods or weekdays.

5. DIY When Possible: Adding personal, handmade touches can not only save money but also enhance your wedding’s uniqueness. From decorations to invitations and favours, consider what elements you can create yourselves or with the help of friends and family.

6. Choose a Comprehensive Venue: Opt for venues that include multiple services in their packages, such as catering, seating, and décor. This can be more economical than hiring individual suppliers for each aspect.

7. Allow for Unexpected Expenses: Allocate a portion of your budget for unforeseen costs to avoid last-minute financial surprises.

8. Clear Communication: Keep an open line of communication with your partner about the budget, ensuring you make decisions together and stay aligned on your financial limits and priorities.

Implementing these strategies can help you manage your wedding expenses effectively, allowing you to enjoy your special day without worrying about overspending.