Published 23rd April 2014
By Louise Moore
Planning a wedding is both daunting and exciting at the same time. I’ve just started planning my own and I’m already finding it stressful – but rewarding. If like me, you are only planning to do it once – the pressure is on to create a unique and magical day for your guests.
BUT BEWARE! Don’t let the will to do something different turn into a competition to out-do your friends/family or try to arrange something too extravagant. Trying to hard will not only ruin your big day, it may turn you into the dreaded ‘bridezilla’!
The first thing I did was to establish the all-important budget. Fortunately for me, my lovely parents are being very generous and paying for the majority of the day. (One very lucky girl, I know) Once you have this, it’s easier to see what is or isn’t in your reach. I had to say "goodbye" to having my day in an extravagant venue, alongside the champagne fountains. However, it means I have said "hello" to completely new ideas and theme.
Secondly, I chose my theme/colour for the day. This has really set the whole feeling and atmosphere for our big day and I couldn’t be more excited. DO NOT forget who you and your fiancé are. DON’T pick a theme just for the look or to show off. DO pick a theme that compliments your personalities. Many people have chosen travel themes that fit with places they have been on holiday or couples who adore films have added film names as table names. I wanted a Tiffany theme, but I soon realised that it really wasn’t us as a couple. After all, my partner didn’t even really know what Tiffany was. DO take inspiration from things you see/do as a couple – we watched The Great Gatsby and fell in love. Gold, decadence, roaring twenties, art deco, alcohol and dancing are planning to be part of our big day. (Also a major theme for 2014/2015 weddings.) For other theme ideas, check out Rock My Wedding or Style Me Pretty – full of lots of unique ideas.
Thirdly – and this may be the most important thing of all – REMEMBER YOUR GROOM! As much as it is your big day, it’s his as well. Trust me, they definitely want their say. They may not have been pillowcases from their heads pretending to get married, or have dreamt about it since your first date, they may not also have a lot to say about what they want – but when they don’t want or like something – you will know about it. There are lots of blogs about for grooms to read, maybe leave a few open for him to browse. Fingers crossed he will be interested. Try Temple of Groom (quite funny) or I Am Staggered or even The Well Groomed Groom (a very chic and sophisticated take).
So I’ve booked our venue, date and registrar and starting on the finals details such as seeking our perfect photographer. Remember to use the people you know and ask for favours – if you don’t ask you will never get. We have a family friend who does stationary, very kindly offered to do ours on the cheap. Just beware of the in-laws. Duh! Duh! Duhhhhh! They may seem like they are getting too involved or taking over, but just take it as a compliment – they are obviously excited and thrilled at the prospect of your upcoming nuptials and want to help.
That’s as far as I have got. Wedding is in June 2015, so taking things slowly. Good luck on your planning everyone and I hope you day is everything you want it to be.
I hope you live happily ever after.
