The wedding planning journey is hard, but so worthwhile in the end. We know it can take a lot of time and cause some stress and anxiety, but we're all about making it easy here at Lily Francis Bridal.
We asked 10 newlyweds for their best advice for future bride-to-be's, and here's what they had to say.
1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Before you start planning, determine how much you can afford to spend. Allocate funds to different categories like venue, catering, dress and styling. Be disciplined about staying within your budget to avoid unnecessary stress. Your Excel spreadsheet will be your bible!
2. Prioritise Your Must-Haves
This is one of my favourite bits of advice actually, and what I tell lots of brides. Identify the aspects of your wedding that are most important to you and your partner. Whether it’s the venue, the food, the music, or the photography, prioritise these elements in your planning and budget. I call them my non-negotiables.
3. Start Early
Begin planning as soon as possible to secure your preferred suppliers and venues. Popular venues and suppliers can be booked up over a year in advance, so the earlier you start, the better, especially if you're looking for a peak season date. Getting things done early in the process will also make it less stressful towards the end.
4. Stay Organised
Keep all your wedding-related information, such as contracts, receipts and guest lists in one place. Use wedding planning apps, spreadsheets, or a dedicated binder to keep track of all the details. If you're having a dedicated wedding planner, you could share this with them. Additionally, a list of suppliers should be given to the venue and a family member or friend, just in case something happens on the day and a supplier needs to be contacted.
5. Delegate Tasks
Don’t try to do everything yourself. Enlist the help of family, friends and your wedding party. Assign specific tasks to people you trust so you can focus on the big picture. Don't feel this is a burden, they will want to help!
6. Plan for the Weather
If you’re having an outdoor wedding, have a backup plan in case of bad weather. This could be a tent, an indoor location, or a stash of umbrellas for guests. On the flipside, you might want to prepare for a heat wave and supply suncream or insect repellent for guests.
7. Consider Your Guests’ Experience
Think about the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. Provide clear directions, consider dietary restrictions, and make sure there are enough facilities for everyone. To add, if there's lots of time between sections, you might want to think about how they will be entertained, as well as children's activities too, if required.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Wedding planning can be stressful, so it’s important to take care of your physical and mental health. Take breaks, get enough sleep, eat well, and keep active. Yoga or meditation are good to practice stress-relief, or maybe a spa day for you to reset. Keep on top of this, otherwise it can really put a dampener on your wedding planning, which should be exciting!
9. Communicate with Your Partner
Keep an open line of communication with your partner throughout the planning process. Make decisions together and ensure both your visions and wishes are reflected in the wedding. Sharing this mental load will make it easer. A problem shared is a problem halved after all! Remember it's also a day for the both of you.
10. Enjoy the Process
Remember that your wedding is a celebration of your love and commitment. Try to enjoy the planning process and cherish the special moments leading up to your big day. Don’t let the stress overshadow the joy of the occasion.
Follow these 10 tips from women who have all been there before you to make wedding planning easy and stress-free!
Photography Credits:
Photography: Connor Wells Creative @cjw_hq
Venue: Holmewood Hall
www.holmewood-hall.co.uk @holmewoodhall
Wedding Dress: Lily Francis Bridal
www.lilyfrancisbridal.co.uk @lilyfrancisbridal
Alterations: Stitch and Fix @stitchandfix_alterations
Hair & Make Up: Annie Daniel @adm.makeupartist_hairstylist
Nails: Monica Rose @nailsbymonicarose
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