So, you’ve just decided to get hitched but the venue of your dreams/your parents/the weather have convinced you that time is of the essence, and you have now pencilled in a date six months or less from now. How do you get it all wrapped up in time, especially when other couples take a year or more? It’s fairly easy – and actually better to get it wrapped up speedily – and we’ve got some handy tips to help you through the process.
1. You’ve gotten engaged! Don’t panic!
First of all, take a deep breath. While the list of things to do – which you’ve just carefully compiled – feels endless, all it needs is a structured approach and a clear head. Make yourself a cup of tea and then…
2. Group the tasks
Take a look at the calendar and, working backwards, select what needs to happen when, banding the jobs together, depending on their timeline. To do this, set up an excel sheet, breaking down everything you need to do, no matter how small, and you will feel totally in control!
3. Start with jobs which rely on others, or might get booked up
Make sure to start with those items which may have dependencies. For instance, order your wedding dress early on if this needs to be ordered from abroad – or if you’re getting it made. And, prioritise your wedding venue and church of your choice to get in there before they get taken!
4. Don’t be too fussy and learn to take a break
I know this may seem like insanity for some, but you have to retain a certain degree of flexibility, and know when to chill, when you’re planning a wedding in less than six months. Venue unavailable? Have a couple of back-up options listed just in case. Your favourite caterer is overwhelmed with work? Ask for recommendations! You never know, you might actually find someone better than your initial first choice.
5. Get the venue to cover many of the logistics
When you’re short on time, you’ve got to be practical, and the venue you choose will have a huge impact on how stress-free your journey is. Ideally, opt for somewhere which organises any seat covers or textile dressing, as well as your wedding catering and bar, so you don’t have to get your dad to count the number of unopened bottles!
6. Go for simple for a blissful day
The more complicated the affair, the more difficult it will be to tie up all the loose strands. So, go for a quartet rather than a full jazz band, for instance. Also do your research and opt for florists and graphic designers (for the invites) who may be just starting out and want to prove themselves. Apart from being easy on the take-up, they’re likely to give you a great deal, and fantastic service.
7. Ask for help
We all need a kind hand every once in a while and planning a wedding – while you’re in full-time employment, have family commitments and (let’s face it) still need some time to yourself – is a big, though manageable, task. So, ask friends and relatives to help with certain things, such as filling out the invites, running errands or simply giving you advice on the best colour tones!