Congratulations – You’re getting married! Now, let’s get planning…
As a photographer, I’ve learnt some valuable lessons from all the things couples have done right – and also where they went slightly wrong. So, I’m here to offer you some tips on how to plan for your big day, and make sure everything goes smoothly.
1. Start your wedding planning early.
Leaving things late will reduce your options, and can easily mean you’ll end up having to spend more. You can avoid so many of the stresses that many couples experience simply by starting early. There are so many decisions you need to make, and it can seem like a daunting task. So start with the big things first. Decide on your budget and stick to it. Choose your venue and date. Then you can start looking for a photographer, DJ or Band, and begin looking at Dresses, Florists, Cake designers etc, and work down to the smaller things like invitations and personal touches.
2. Pick the perfect venue
In East Sussex and Kent, there is such a great variety of wedding venues and settings to choose from. Whether you’re dreaming of a castle wedding or a rustic barn celebration, there are tons of great options to find the perfect spot to say “I do.” Make sure to consider factors like guest capacity, location, and your overall vision when picking your venue. And don’t forget to take lots of photos during your venue visits, to help you make the final decision. Ive written an in depth article, detailing my Top 20 recommendations for wedding venues (for all budgets) in East Sussex. So if you haven’t chosen your venue yet, you might find it very helpful! Click here to take a look:
https://www.simonbooth.photo/my-top-20-weddin…-for-all-budgets/
3. Hire a great Wedding Planner
A wedding planner can be a total lifesaver when it comes to planning your big day. They can help with everything from choosing vendors to managing the timeline to handling any unexpected hiccups that may arise. Plus, they can help take some of the stress off your plate so you can focus on enjoying your engagement and wedding day. If your budget doesn’t stretch to hiring a Wedding Planner, then make sure you take full advantage of the Wedding Co-ordinator at your venue, as their experience, and knowledge of suppliers, timings etc, can be invaluable.
4. Choose the right vendors
When it comes to picking vendors, do your research! Read reviews, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and make sure to ask lots of questions to ensure they’re the right fit for your wedding. Some key vendors to consider include a caterer, florist, DJ/band, and of course, a photographer!
5. Make a timeline
A timeline can help keep everything on track and ensure that you don’t miss any important moments on your wedding day. Work with your wedding planner, or if you don’t have one, ask your photographer to create a detailed timeline that includes things like getting ready, the ceremony, photos, and reception activities. I always like to advise couples on timings, because getting this right ensures the day flows smoothly.
6. Don’t forget the details
It’s the little details that can really make your wedding day special. Consider things like personalised favours for your guests, a unique guestbook, or special touches like a signature cocktail or photo booth. And of course, make sure your photographer captures all those details so you can remember them forever.
7. Spend the day before your wedding relaxing.
You’ll need to be up early on the big day, and want to look your best! So consider a spa day, or just do something nice to treat yourselves.
8. Its your day, so do it your way!
More and more couples don’t want their weddings to be overly formal or traditional. They want it to feel personal, or be unique in some way. I always fully encourage and support this approach, because it’s your day, so you should do it in the way that best suits you and your partner, and your personalities. So if you want to be bold, unique, individual, go for it! Be honest about you like, and what you don’t like, and really make it a unique day that is truly special, that you and your guests will love and remember!
9. Make use of your Bridesmaids, Best Man & Groomsmen
They are there to help you, and they usually love to be involved. So let them help with organising the Family / Group Portraits with the Photographer. Put them in charge of handing out confetti. The more you can delegate, so that you don’t have to do or remember little things on the day, the more relaxed your wedding day will be for you.
10. Above all else, remember to have fun!
This is a celebration of your love, after all. Don’t get too bogged down in the details and stress of planning. Take a deep breath, enjoy the moment, and let your photographer capture all the joy and love of your big day.
So there you have it! With a little bit of planning and a whole lot of love, your wedding day is sure to be a success. And if you’re looking for a photographer to capture your big day, look no further!