Photo Credit:Luxe Images
Welcome to the exciting journey of selecting Your Castle and Royal Court! Your Castle is your chosen venue—the place where you’ll tie the knot and celebrate your love. Your Court comprises your wedding party and the vendor team who will help bring your vision to life. We know that the first month of engagement can feel both thrilling and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! We’ve prioritized a list of steps to tackle within the first three months of your engagement. Once you complete these, you’ll feel right on track. Let’s dive in. Here is your Essential Wedding Planning Guide, in order of importance!
Budget
Begin your wedding journey by establishing your budget. Remember, this is YOUR budget. While a wedding planner can provide insights to help you navigate it gracefully, your expectations should align with your financial reality. You can create a beautiful wedding on a modest budget by prioritizing what matters most to you. Most couples overspend because they set a budget without understanding the market rate for wedding expenses. I suggest gathering quotes first, then setting a realistic budget based on your research, including consulting planners for additional insight.
Hire a Planner
Don’t go at this alone! Whether you choose a full-service planner or a day-of coordinator, having a professional by your side can lift a significant weight off your shoulders. A planner can assist with hiring vendors such as photographers, makeup artists, and DJs, and will guide you through the planning process. When interviewing potential planners, consider their communication styles, flexibility, and personality—this relationship is built on trust and understanding. We offer a complimentary consultation to assess whether we are a good fit for potential clients and to discuss budgets. You can schedule an appointment on our contact page here.
Guest List
Now it’s time to create your guest list. Ask yourselves: Who makes the cut? Will children be invited? Can guests bring a plus one? Discuss expectations with family and begin an electronic spreadsheet to keep everything organized. Once you finalize the list, keep headcount in mind when selecting your venue to ensure it can accommodate your guests. Remember, the guest count is the best way to control cost.
Outline Your Vision
Get inspired! What does your ideal wedding day look like? Start creating an overall vision, including color schemes and themes. Gather images on Pinterest that visually narrate your love story. This is where a full-service planner and designer can really lead you in the right direction with design boards and production guidance. If you are on your own, tools like AI and Canva can be your best allies. I always encourage clients that cost is not the most essential factor; it’s not just over-the-top decor and flowers. What matters most is making your wedding personal and meaningful to you as a couple. Think signature drinks named after a pet, table numbers of your favorite places, or reception food from your first date -personal touches make all the difference.
Find Your Castle
With your budget and guest list in hand, it’s time to find your royal castle—your venue! Visit potential locations to assess the space. Suppose you’re planning a destination wedding; factor in travel expenses. Check whether the venue offers catering and how many guests it can accommodate. It’s best to book your venue 12 to 18 months in advance. If you are limited on time, don’t stress, be flexible and open to Sundays and weekdays, often they are available and even at reduced cost, especially in the off-season.
Set a Date
Determine the perfect day for your celebration. Is there a date that holds special significance? Consider the season and weather, especially for outdoor events. If you’re mindful of your budget, booking during the off-season (January, February, or November to December) or on weekdays can help reduce cost.
Choose Attire for You and Your Court
Start your search for the perfect wedding dress 6 to 12 months in advance, as it can take several months for attire and be altered.Don’t forget those all-important accessories!
Hire Your Photographer/Videographer
Capture your special day by hiring a talented photographer or videographer. Meeting in person is beneficial for understanding their style and process. Review their portfolios and if possible, take engagement photos together to ensure a good fit.
Tastings: Cake and Caterer
Taste testing is one of the most enjoyable parts of planning! Your caterer will likely be one of your largest budget items, so select them early. Schedule tastings to explore options, and don’t forget to sample desserts from at least three different cake vendors if interested.
Hair and Makeup Artist
Hiring a professional makeup artist will ensure you feel pampered on your wedding day. Review portfolios and schedule a trial session—ideally on the day of your engagement photos—to see how well their work translates on camera.
DJ, Music, and Lighting
To set the mood for your celebration, hire a DJ, live musicians, or other entertainment. Consider the music style you want and review it. Meeting potential entertainers in person is a great way to ensure they’re a good match for your vibe.!
