The Timeline

There are literally hundreds of decisions - large and small - you will need to make after saying "Yes" to the proposal. Having a timeline to work from will prevent important items from falling through the cracks and eleviate the need to make a rush decision that may end up costing you more, yet not meeting your dreams. This post will give a basic list, but future posts will address each element in more detail.

12-18 months prior:

• choose a date
• start a wedding idea file
• discuss and choose the style of your wedding
• determine a budget
• place an engagement announcement in your local papers
• hire Details, a professional planning company
• work with Details to select a ceremony site *see previous post
• work with Details to select a reception site *see previous post
• for a custom gown, begin shopping now

8-10 months prior:

• select the bridal party
• work with Details to select the officiant , caterer, photographer, videographer, band or DJ
• select bridesmaids dresses
• create guest list and gather addresses
• sign up for gift registry

5-7 months prior:

• finalize guest list
• hire Details to provide custom stationary
• work with Details to arrange accommodations for both out of town guests and honeymoon
• select wedding cake

4 months prior:

• work with Details to select florist
• shop for rings
• obtain blood tests

3 months prior:

• work with Details to send invitations
• select tuxedos
• work with Details to arrange for rental items
• work with Details to finalize menus
• work with Details to arrange transporation to/from service
• work with Details to select and order wedding favors
• purchase wedding party gifts

2 months prior:

• select wedding and reception music
• work with Details to select location of rehearsal dinner
• work with Details to schedule final fittings
• allow Details to create custom address labels with your new name and monogram

1 month prior:

• allow Details to create a custom wedding program
• apply for marriage license
• have final gown fitting
• select wedding accessories
• arrange for a trial run with hairdresser and makeup artist
• Details will finalize arrangements with all service providers

2 weeks prior:

• Details will follow up with guests who have not responded
• Details will give the final head count to caterer
• pick up marriage license
• Details will meet with band or DJ to pass along your song selections
• make necessary name changes
• work with Details to finalize seating layout
• Details will confirm with all service providers
• Details will confirm dates and times with attendants

1 week prior:

• Make last minute seating adjustments
• Details will confirm honeymoon arrangements
• Details will confirm accommodations for out of town guests
• pack for honeymoon

1 Day prior:

• Details will make sure all bases are covered
• Details will provide a wedding day emergency kit
• get manicure and pedicure
• layout all accessories
• give rings to best man

Your Wedding Day:

• get hair and makeup done
• allow Details to handle everything behind the scenes so you can enjoy your special day!

Your Personality, Your Budget, Your Dream...Our Creativity, Our Time, Our Pleasure

Questions to Keep in Mind When Selecting Your Venue

You may or may not have an idea or two about where you would like to have your wedding ceremony and reception, but in either case there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you make your final selection.

• Determine your budget and have an understanding of what each component is allotted
• Make your guest list so that you have an idea of the numbers when meeting with vendors
• Your venue needs to fit your budget
• Your venue needs to fit your guest count
• Your venue needs to fit your style (see previous post)
• Is the location available on your preferred date?
• Are there any other events scheduled that day?
• How much time will they allot for your event? what if you need to extend that time?
• Will you need to allot a significant amount of funds to decoration - flowers, special lighting, etc.
• Do they have photos of previous weddings they have accommodated?
• Do they have decor items that you may use? is there an additional fee for doing so?
• Will there be any remodeling prior to or during the time of your event?
• Does it have adequate heating/cooling/ventilation?
• Scout out ideas for photo backdrops
• Where will your guests park? is there a fee for parking? is valet parking available?
• If you are planning an outdoor event, what are your inclement weather backups?
• Do they have an in-house caterer? is it mandatory to use their caterer?
• If you must use their specified caterer, ask to sample your menu selections
• If you are serving liquor, do they have a liquor license? are you allowed to bring your own?
• Will they supply bartenders or will you need to supply your own?
• Are the restrooms in convenient locations? will they accommodate the size of your group?
• Is there room for a band and dancing?
• If you will be using their sound system, ask to hear a sample
• Is there space available for the wedding party to change and relax away from the guests?
• Are there any restrictions to using the site...no candles, no alcohol, etc.
• Are there any hidden costs?
• Are there overtime charges?
• What is the payment schedule?
• What is the cancellation policy?
• Do they carry liability insurance and is it sufficient to cover your event?
• Be sure the contract explicitly explains all that is included
• Who will be the venue contact for the day? can you meet the person beforehand?

There are obviously considerable details that need to be addressed for your wedding to run smoothly...this is just a sampling of what needs to occur with one supplier before the big day! Having a wedding planning can save you time, stress, and money.

Contact Details today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation!

jami@detailsplanningcompany.com