It’s supposed to be the happiest day of your life, but according to some it can also be one of the most stressful – maybe even up there with moving house, starting a new job or (not that you’d want to jinx anything) going through a divorce. You want to sit back and enjoy your wedding without any last-minute disasters. So what are the golden rules for making sure your big day runs smoothly?
Do plan thoroughly: Start at least a year in advance and set out a check-list of all the factors you need to organise – things like guest list, venue, food, flowers, music or photographers. Keep notes of how they are all progressing. Set out a budget and stick to it.
Don’t make assumptions: Make sure you get as much in writing as possible – this includes RSVPs from guests, entertainment bookings, catering arrangements. Even if the people you are using for certain functions are friends, you still need written confirmations to avoid confusion.
Do get help if you need it: It may cost a little more, but one of the best ways to avoid the stress of wedding planning is to hire in a professional catering consultancy or event planner. In addition to organising the good and helping you get the costings per head within your budget, they can also help you with a myriad of other hitherto unthought-of necessities such as additional staff to serve, decoration or even entertainment.
Don’t assume the cheapest service is the best: Obviously you want to keep your costs as low as possible, but scrimping where it really matters can actually end up costing you more. For example, as with the above-mentioned catering consultancy, if you plump for a disreputable company purporting to offer a cheaper service than their competitors, some will insist on additional costs late in the day when you are already too far in to back out. Make sure all the costs are confirmed in writing up-front.
Do make use of the Internet: The Internet is a godsend for those looking to organise a wedding. You can send out e-save-the-date cards, register online for gifts and send the link to your guests, or just keep them updated with plans, dress codes etc.
Don’t feel pressured to invite everyone: Remember it’s your wedding, and if there are certain ‘friends’ or family members known to be difficult at such events, or who just make you feel uncomfortable, you are under no obligation to have them there. You are working to a budget, and every guest increases your costs so think carefully about who you really want to share your day.
Do plan thoroughly: Start at least a year in advance and set out a check-list of all the factors you need to organise – things like guest list, venue, food, flowers, music or photographers. Keep notes of how they are all progressing. Set out a budget and stick to it.
Don’t make assumptions: Make sure you get as much in writing as possible – this includes RSVPs from guests, entertainment bookings, catering arrangements. Even if the people you are using for certain functions are friends, you still need written confirmations to avoid confusion.
Do get help if you need it: It may cost a little more, but one of the best ways to avoid the stress of wedding planning is to hire in a professional catering consultancy or event planner. In addition to organising the good and helping you get the costings per head within your budget, they can also help you with a myriad of other hitherto unthought-of necessities such as additional staff to serve, decoration or even entertainment.
Don’t assume the cheapest service is the best: Obviously you want to keep your costs as low as possible, but scrimping where it really matters can actually end up costing you more. For example, as with the above-mentioned catering consultancy, if you plump for a disreputable company purporting to offer a cheaper service than their competitors, some will insist on additional costs late in the day when you are already too far in to back out. Make sure all the costs are confirmed in writing up-front.
Do make use of the Internet: The Internet is a godsend for those looking to organise a wedding. You can send out e-save-the-date cards, register online for gifts and send the link to your guests, or just keep them updated with plans, dress codes etc.
Don’t feel pressured to invite everyone: Remember it’s your wedding, and if there are certain ‘friends’ or family members known to be difficult at such events, or who just make you feel uncomfortable, you are under no obligation to have them there. You are working to a budget, and every guest increases your costs so think carefully about who you really want to share your day.
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