Wedding 'Top Tips'

Many couples that I have worked with often say they do not know where to start when planning their wedding. Below are a few things I think are important to keep in mind during the planning of your wedding.

The first thing to do is set a budget. Your perfect day will not necessarily be dictated by your spending parameters. However, as you start planning, you may discover expenses that you had not considered. Plan for the type of wedding you can afford.
Top Tip - Create a spreadsheet of all your 'items' and their estimated costs - this will help you to create a more realistic budget.

Prioritise your tasks. Don't waste time getting carried away with the detail of your day until you have put in place the key elements: where and when you'll be married and how much you can spend.

Consider different venues. If your chosen reception venue is a long drive through narrow country lanes, your guests may struggle to find it and arrive late. Review reception venues within a sensible proximity to the ceremony location before you confirm your booking.
Top Tip - In Scotland, any location can be a ceremony/reception venue so keep an open mind if you can’t find the exact location you want, a wedding planner may be able to find a unique location just for you.

Decide who will do the organising. It's the key to successful and stress free wedding planning. This can be a crucial and political decision! In the event of a possible permanent family rift, a wedding planner is an essential option!
Top Tip - To allow family and friends to get involved and not feel left out of the build up, delegate what you can to those who have skills in areas you need help with.

Look at the season and decide on a theme. The time of year can inspire many ideas for your wedding, from what you wear to your table decorations. Your wedding month will also offer a variety of seasonal flowers, which can inspire your colour scheme.
Top Tip - Take inspiration from your venue's décor, your favourite flowers or the colours you would like your wedding party to wear.

Do your research. Prices and quality of service can vary hugely and the selection can be overwhelming. Go on referrals or friends' experiences - these provide the safest choices. Often a wedding planner can negotiate deals with regular suppliers.
Top Tip - Do not hire anyone or anything until you have seen or sampled their wares. Get every detail in writing. Before signing a contract ask: 'is this your best price?'

Respect & Compromise. When drawing up your guest list, be sensitive to the desires and expectations of each other and your families. Respect the point of view of others and listen, even if you eventually reject their ideas. Be prepared to negotiate and compromise.

Enjoy yourself. It's important that you relish the preparation of this big day, as well as the end result. It is essential to keep calm and collected, especially with your nearest and dearest. Don't alienate anyone you'll need later on.
Top Tip - Have wedding free zones in your home(s) and wedding free evenings with your partner. Then you'll not lose sight of why you are making the marriage commitment!