Planning a wedding takes time and preparation. The Legacy Center brings you a comprehensive checklist of tasks to complete in the fall to ensure your winter or spring wedding is a success. When booking your wedding with us, you also have access to our preferred vendors who have been in our space before and are trusted professionals for your special day.
- Set a Budget: Establishing a budget is crucial as it will guide all your decisions moving forward. Outline how much you’re willing to spend on each aspect of the wedding, including venue, attire, catering, and entertainment.
- Choose a Date: Selecting a wedding date allows you to start booking venues and vendors. Ensure the date is convenient for key guests and consider potential weather conditions for winter or spring.
- Create a Guest List: Knowing the approximate number of guests helps in selecting an appropriately sized venue and planning the budget. Make an A-list and B-list to manage potential changes in the guest count.
- Book the Venue: Popular venues can be booked up to a year in advance, so securing your venue early is essential. Consider the venue’s capacity, location, and amenities.
- Hire Key Vendors: Key vendors include caterers, photographers, videographers, florists, and entertainment. Booking early ensures you get your preferred choices and can negotiate contracts.
- Select Your Wedding Party: Choosing your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other attendants early allows them to plan ahead. It also gives you a support system for the upcoming months.
- Shop for Wedding Attire: Finding the perfect wedding dress, groom’s attire, and outfits for the wedding party can take time, including fittings and alterations. Start shopping early to ensure everything is ready on time.
- Send Save-the-Dates: Sending save-the-date cards in the fall is especially important for a winter wedding, giving guests ample notice to make travel arrangements and accommodations.
- Plan Your Honeymoon: Early planning can secure better deals on travel and accommodations. Decide on a destination and book flights and hotels in advance.
- Organize Transportation: Arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests, especially if the venue is in a remote location. Consider options like limousines, buses, or car rentals.
- Book a Block of Hotel Rooms: Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Many hotels offer discounted rates for group bookings, and this ensures guests have convenient lodging options.
- Create a Wedding Website: A wedding website can provide guests with important details, including the schedule, travel information, and registry links. It’s a great way to keep everyone informed.
- Select and Book a Florist: Florists can get booked up, especially during peak seasons. Discuss your floral vision and secure their services early to ensure availability.
- Design Your Invitations: Start designing and ordering your wedding invitations. Consider the theme, colors, and overall style. Invitations should be mailed out about 8-10 weeks before the wedding.
- Choose a Caterer – Food is a major part of the celebration. Taste test menus and select a caterer that aligns with your preferences and budget. Make sure they can accommodate any dietary restrictions.
- Schedule Engagement Photos: Engagement photos can be used for save-the-dates, invitations, and your wedding website. Schedule a session with your photographer to capture this special time.
- Plan the Ceremony and Reception Details: Start thinking about the details of your ceremony and reception. This includes the order of events, music, readings, and any special traditions or customs.
- Order Wedding Rings: Give yourself plenty of time to choose and order wedding rings. Consider personalization options like engravings, and ensure you have time for any necessary resizing.
- Consider Seasonal Elements: For a winter wedding, plan for potential weather issues. Have a backup plan for transportation and outdoor photos. For spring, consider allergies and have plans for rainy weather.
- Confirm Legal Requirements: Ensure you know the legal requirements for marriage in your location, such as obtaining a marriage license. Complete any necessary paperwork well in advance.
By following this fall wedding planning checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for your winter or spring wedding. Early planning helps ensure everything goes smoothly, allowing you to enjoy your special day without unnecessary stress. The Legacy Center is here for you for all your venue needs with an amazing list of local suppliers and event planners who are here to help with your special day.