The First Three Decisions
If you’re newly engaged, you’ve probably shared the joyous news of your engagement with all of your friends and family. Once you’ve been toasted and congratulated, the reality of wedding planning may begin to sink in. You may begin to ask yourself, “Where do you start?” Here’s a hint… All other wedding planning decisions will be easier after you answer the following questions:
1. What is the style and theme of your celebration?
2. What is your budget?
3. How large is the guest list?
First, give some thought to the style and theme of your wedding. This decision will guide you in determining everything from food and venue to attire and favors. Consider your personal values and background and incorporate them into your theme. Your wedding is in some ways an introduction. You and your partner can showcase what’s important to you as a couple! What a great way to start married life! For a more in depth article on color theme and motif, check out my previous blog post here.
Next, look at your budget. How much do you want to spend on your wedding? Look at CostOfWedding.com to see what the averages are in your area, but keep in mind You are not average! Knowing what others spend is only a starting point. You can create a fabulous celebration that is tailored to your own values within your budget if you can keep perspective about what’s important to you.
Finally, determine the size of your guest list. Advantages of a larger guest list include being able to share your joy with your larger community. Advantages of a smaller guest list include a smaller carbon footprint, and the ability to stretch your budget further. It’s really a very personal decision that needs to be based on what’s important to you. This is also a good time to talk to interested parties (like your parents) about what their expectations are. Create a gathering that is a comfortable size for you and your partner, while still including all of the people you want to share your day with.
Wedding planning can be overwhelming, so please don’t hesitate to call for help! Planned Spontaneity has the tools and experience to help you create a celebration that fits within the framework of your personal values, your aesthetic, and your budget! Contact me today for your free consultation. (608) 446-0346 or events@plannedspontaneity.net.
Also, as a bonus offer in celebration of re-launching Planned Spontaneity, I’m offering a free budget analysis to the first 4 people who e-mail me a link to this article. I’m offering a free highly personalized budget analysis- a $200 value! I’ll interview you to determine where you’d like to allocate your resources, and give you a very detailed budget that you can use to create your perfect wedding! This is completely different from the freebies you can find in any bridal magazine or on the internet. It is a highly detailed budget that includes all the wedding items you want, and none of the items you don’t! I’ll even include the service fees and gratuities as well as postage for your invitations an thank-you cards!
I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon!
Marilee Karamanski,
Celebration Specialist