Congratulations on your engagement! It’s an exciting time for you and your partner, but if you’re daunted by wedding planning, you’re not alone. We’ve made a list of what to expect when you start planning your wedding, from creating a budget to organizing your décor and menu.
Set Your Wedding Budget
Location: The Gardens at Pillar and Post
Image courtesy of Geoff Shaw Photography
Setting a budget may not be the most fun part of planning, but it’s crucial to move ahead without worrying about falling in love with a dress, venue, or décor that’s simply out of your range. It keeps your expectations realistic and in line with what you can afford.
Whether you want a small, intimate celebration or a grand wedding, our experienced wedding planners can help by giving you accurate estimates on what you can expect to spend in each category.
Determine Your Wedding Style or Theme
Image courtesy of Honey & Lux Photography
Determine the style of wedding you’re dreaming of! Are you into a traditional white wedding, or something off the beaten path? Do you like themed weddings, or do you prefer to keep it formal? Browse bridal inspiration boards on Pinterest, check out photos on Instagram, or visit bridal websites to see the wide variety of styles available, from bright colours to something more rustic.
Your wedding planner can offer ideas based on their industry experience, so don’t forget to ask them for inspiration if you get stuck!
Create a Guest List
Location: Pillar and Post
Image courtesy of Devin Begin Photography
Creating a guest list sounds easy, but it can be difficult to narrow it down once you see it on paper. Make decisions based on the wedding you want to have: do you want a small, intimate affair with only your nearest and dearest, or are you dreaming of a grand celebration?
Remember that more guests mean a larger portion of your budget will be spent on catering and the venue. While that’s just what some couples are looking for, be sure to account for the extra cost in your budget.
Decide on a Date
Location: Sue Anne Staff Winery
Image courtesy of Morning Light Photography
Deciding on a wedding date is dependent on a variety of factors. Consider your ideal season: do you want a festive winter wedding, or would you prefer a spring wedding with fresh flowers and sunshine? If your dream date isn’t available, are you willing to book further out to secure it, even if it means waiting? No matter your preference, it’s important to have multiple options in case your first choice isn’t available.
Choose the Right Venue
Location: Inn On The Twenty
Image courtesy of Bright Sky Weddings
Choose a venue to accommodate your guest list. It’s wise and cost-effective to select a venue that can also handle catering and décor. At Vintage Hotels, we offer 22 different venue options with varying capacities, all of which can be tailored to suit your unique vision.
Plan Your Décor and Menu
Image courtesy of Morning Light Photography
Choose décor and florals that align with your style or theme. Refer to the inspiration pictures you picked earlier and ask your wedding planner about how to make each idea your own. Our in-house florist, Clippings, can help by showing you sample arrangements, giving expert advice, and making suggestions when you get stuck.
Wedding menus can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish! Our talented culinary team prepares delectable wedding feasts on a regular basis and loves customizing offerings to suit your needs. No matter what you choose, you can expect fresh ingredients and spectacular local wines to dazzle your guests.
Plan Your Dream Wedding with Vintage Hotels
Our reliable, experienced wedding planners are excited to help you make your wedding dreams come true. If you can dream it, we can create it! Contact us today to discuss how we can realize your vision and create lasting memories for the rest of your lives together.
*Featured Image Location: The Barn at Pillar and Post
*Featured image courtesy of Bright Sky Weddings