You may have spent your whole life thinking about every detail. Maybe you haven't, but either way all brides have to start somewhere! Here is our general guide to help you get your start.
First things first:
Pick a Date/Month/Season
Estimate Your Guest List.
This will help you determine which venues can accommodate your celebration.
Talk About Budget.
Regardless of who is funding your big day, talk with your significant other about what kind of budget they are comfortable with and the two of you will be able to compromise to plan the wedding of your dreams.
Theme/Colors/Seasonal Availabilities of Menu Options and Florals
Next:
Venues!!
Start researching venues that fit your guest list and see if they have your date or date range available. If they do, take a tour! Some venues may have a day of planner required with their venue rental packages, but this is a great opportunity to see what they offer and what limits they have.
Set Your Date
Begin Research on Vendors -- Caterers, Bands, Florist, Photographers, Planners
If some degree of a Wedding Planner/Coordinator is in your budget, finding someone you like working with early in your planning process is incredibly beneficial. You will be communicating with them quite often so be sure you like them and their style. Even if you just want a Day-of-Coordinator, they may be a good resource for you throughout your planning process.
Vendors to Book:
Band / DJ / Musicians
Caterers
Dress Search
Florist
Hair/Makeup Artist
Launch Wedding Website
Lodging for Guests
Photographer / Videographer
Transportation
Other Items to Check Off Your List:
Save the Dates & Invites
6 months out is a great time to send out your save the dates. Gathering addresses can pose quite a challenge. Enlist some well connected helpers to make this process easier.
Plan Honeymoon
Select Bridesmaids Dresses
Find Your Officiant
Create Your Day-Of Timeline
Rehearsal Dinner
Bridal Shower?
Wedding Accessories-- Shoes, Hair, Jewelry AND Your Future Husbands Accessories!
Select Songs-- Processional/Recessional, First Dance, Father Daughter Dance
Finalize Menu
Favors?
Bridal Lingerie
Schedule Fittings
Finalize Timeline & Send to All Vendors
Plan Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties
Keep Track of RSVPs
Marriage License-- Each state will have different requirements. In Oregon, you must get the license at least 3 days prior to the ceremony and no more than 60 days prior. If you can complete it online, it makes for a very easy process. If you plan to change your name, you will need a couple certified copies. Ordering them from the start saves you an extra trip and a few dollars.
Book Spa Treatments/Nails/Facial/Waxings
Break in Shoes
Create Seating Charts
Bridesmaids & Groomsmen Gifts
Bride & Groom Gifts
Write Vows
WEDDING WEEK:
Delegate!!
Airport Pickups
Help with Decorations
Gather Gifts & Cards
Rental Returns
Vendor Final Payments & Tips
Point Person for Vendors to Contact
Pick Up THE Dress
Pack for Honeymoon
Every wedding should be unique and show off the couple that you are to your family & friends. There are a million different ways to do that and within any budget! Electric Events will bring your vision to life. We specialize in handcrafted details that will elevate your day and make your guests ooooo and awwwww.
