He popped the question. You finally have the ring. Now, it's time to plan the wedding of your dreams. So, where do you begin? Let us help.
No, we're not going to tell you what date to pick and who to book. That's up to you. We will, however, let you in on a few little planning secrets. These will get you started and on the right track:
No. 1 — Have the "Money Talk."
Key things to discuss:
If you're parents are footing the bill, be sure to be grateful and understanding of their financial offering. A lot of brides and grooms must pay for the big day themselves, so just by having a budget from mom and dad is a head start.
No. 2 — Prioritize Your Budget!
- What things are most important to you?
- Ask yourself these types of questions:
- Are you foodies?
- Do you love to dance?
- Do you covet a couture wedding gown?
- Are your into high-end photography?
- How much are you willing to spend on your top priorities?
- Now, how much money is left over?
- Are you over budget already?
- What can you eliminate from the budget?
- Eliminate items you said you could live without from the budget entirely
(do you really want custom cocktail napkins?
No. 3 — Don't Set a Date Just Yet.
- Choose a large window of time, not an exact date
- Then, choose a couple venues you love, then cross check their availability to the window of time you determined
- Next, choose the photographer of your dreams, and cross reference their availability with that of the availability of the venues you inquired and also with the window of time you determined
This will allow you to set a date without missing out on your favorite photographer or your dream wedding venue.
Everything after that... well, it should all start falling into place!
>> Use our Bridal Toolbox for a Budget Worksheet, Wedding Planning Checklist and a Vendor Organizer!
>> Find the wedding venue and vendors of your dream right here on ArkansasBride.com, using our easy-to-use Vendor Portfolio, or email Info@ArkansasBride.com for planning help, tips and ideas.
