Best wedding planning tips please!

[whitecowboyboots]

I want a hotel package so unfortunately know it will cost an arm, a leg and a kidney to boot. I am trying to keep it all as within reason as possible.

Not doing centrepieces and I'm trying to avoid being sucked into the Shein/Amazon vortex.

Do I need a planner/spreadsheet?

Depends how your mind works.
I'm a list person myself.
Some people like spreadsheets.
Some are much more laid back - or maybe just have better memories than me.

First thing to do

Make a guest list. Just a rough idea to give you an idea of numbers so you can figure what size venue you want.

Then make a list,

First things to book are

Venue
Photographer
Cake
Music

I'm now 11 months until our wedding and these were tricky finding them available for my date (random Sunday in sept!) because they were already booked up, I started planning November 2022!

Dress shopping is recommended 12-18 months out (my dress was estimated 12-14 months for delivery but actually arrived in 7 months.

IKEA for centrepieces if you change your mind, I'm doing 9 tables for £180

Etsy for bargain stuff like guest book/ring box.

When are you hoping to get married?

Once you've made a decision, move on. Don't be tempted to go back and change things, otherwise it can get overwhelming.

Lists lists lists. I used the hitched and bridebook checklists to double check I wasn't missing anything major, but don't be sucked into doing extra stuff by them. They both list things that are niche as though it's standard, and then forget stuff like "wedding dress alterations" which are more standard.

My one tip would be to not skimp on the photographer and flowers!
We cut out a videographer and paid more for the flowers and photographer and it really makes a difference!
Also, the food is what I've had the most positive feedback on!
Good luck!