At one point or another, we’ve all daydreamed about having the perfect wedding. Unless you are a wedding planner, weddings are not easy to plan. Planning a wedding can get very overwhelming, from choosing the date that works around everyone’s schedule, all the way to picking the best honeymoon destination.
Below are the top 7 factors to consider when planning your perfect wedding.
1. Budget
Wedding budgets are all about balance. If you decide not to get a wedding planner, your wedding will be the biggest event of your life to plan, let alone creating its budget.
- Write down how much you’re willing to spend and stick to that number
- Create a wants & needs list
- Take into account the venue, catering, wedding planner, invitations, attire, photographer, DJ, and some flowers and decor
If your budget is between $5-$15k, focus on prioritizing. If you can get a friend or family member to make the cake, create the invitations or even photograph your special event, you’re on your way to a frugal wedding.
“Did you know half of your wedding expenses go to wining and dining guests? If it’s costing you $100 per person, eliminating at least one table of ten. That’s $1k you just saved!”
2. Research, Research, Research
If hiring a wedding planner isn’t in your budget, research photographers, DJ’s/bands, florists, and caterers local to you. When you have 30 minutes on your lunch break or are out with the girls, stop by each vendor and have a conversation. If it’s feasible, ask for references. Ask questions and get their business cards. Having their contact information will make it easier for you to reach out with more questions or book their services.
3. Guests
Have an approximate number of guests you’ll invite to your wedding before settling on a venue.
This will ensure ample space for your guests, tables, waiters, the DJ, and a dance floor. A good rule of thumb is to allow 25-30sq ft of space per guest.
4. Location & Venue
One of the most important decisions you will make while planning your wedding is where to hold the ceremony and reception. With so many wedding venues available, you’d think choosing one would be simple, but it never is. Knowing in advance your budget, who will be in your wedding party and who will potentially be your guests will give you an idea of where the venue will be. If Oaks Manor is on your list of venues to either look at or book, contact us today at (585) 468-6257 or by email at info@oaksmanor.com.
5. What’s on the Menu
After determining your budget and the approximate number of guests, it’s time to plan the menu. Does the venue you choose offer food and beverages or are you responsible for bringing in caterers? Many large facilities offer a full banquet service, giving you the opportunity to plan a variety of menu options with their chefs – eliminating the extra steps of locating your own caterers. If the venue doesn’t offer catering, plan on researching local wedding caterers and read customer reviews.
6. Review the Playlist
Hiring a band or DJ will make your entire wedding reception run smoothly. Once you’ve hired someone to play on your big day, make sure you come prepared with a list of songs you do and don’t want to be played at your reception. Personalize it.
7. Have a Backup Plan
If you are looking for outdoor photos or even an outdoor reception, ask if there are any wet weather options in the event it rains, storms, or is too hot and humid. While many venues have other rooms that you can utilize in case of inclement weather, some venues may not be so lucky. This is why you’ll need to have a backup plan.
Perfection is in the eye of the beholder. This is your wedding and your budget, so be true to yourself. Just don’t overthink everything. Far too many brides wish they’d spent less time worrying and more time having fun. Be in the moment and have a blast! If you would like to take a tour of our banquet hall, contact us today!