I Do Diary

Tips and Insights from a Seasoned Bride

Planning a wedding can often feel like a daunting task, filled with uncertainties and unexpected challenges. As someone who has navigated through the ups and downs of wedding planning firsthand, I understand the importance of seeking guidance and support while infusing personal touches into every aspect of the process. Join me as I share invaluable tips and insights to help you plan your perfect day, while also shedding light on my own wedding planning journey.

1. Ask for Help: If you’re like me and couldn’t afford a wedding planner service, fear not! Embrace the power of organisation with tools like our best selling wedding planner and digital tools. Your beloved diary will become your best friend and lifeline throughout the planning process. Whether it’s jotting down ideas, tracking appointments, or managing budgets, having a dedicated space to organise your thoughts can be indispensable.

2. Book Vendors Early: When it comes to securing your dream venue and vendors, early booking is key. Although my partner and I faced the uncertainty of the pandemic head-on, early on we decided to choose a date and to stick to it. This meant we could book and secure the most important vendors, including our venue, The Red Barn about a year ahead of the date. This ensured that we had ample time to explore options, create a ‘plan A’ and a ‘plan B’ (thanks to covid), compare prices, and make informed decisions without feeling rushed.

3. Consider the Guest Experience: While your wedding day is a celebration of your love, it’s essential to consider the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. Our rustic barn venue showcased our beautiful hometown and lifestyle to our loved ones, as well as being the perfect backdrop for our wedding photos. It also came complete with modern amenities like heating, air conditioning, BYO options, easy accessibility and indoor restrooms. Adding touches such as personalised placement cards and having a live band enhanced the overall experience for our guests, making them feel truly valued and appreciated.

4. Be Flexible: Flexibility is key when it comes to wedding planning, especially amidst unexpected challenges. From navigating vendor availability to adjusting to last-minute changes, my hubby and I learned the importance of staying flexible throughout the process. This allowed us to overcome obstacles/unforeseen issues as they arose (which they most certainly will) and ensure that our wedding day was everything we had envisioned and more. And when things did go wrong, we reminded ourselves that in the grand scheme of things, no one else knew precisely how things were meant to unfold, so there was no need to fret over minor details!

5. Communicate with Vendors: Building strong relationships with our vendors was crucial in bringing our wedding visions to life. Regular communication ensured that everyone was on the same page, from finalising details to addressing any concerns or questions that arose along the way. This open dialogue not only fostered trust but also allowed us to collaborate seamlessly, resulting in a truly memorable wedding day.

6. Don’t Forget About The Details: As the saying goes, “the devil is in the details,” and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to wedding planning. From planning the day-of timelines to curating your music playlist, every detail contributed to the overall atmosphere of our wedding. Taking the time to consider these finer points and drawing inspiration from elements we admired in other weddings or inspiration boards allowed us to create a cohesive and unforgettable experience for ourselves and our guests.

7. Manage Milestones Efficiently: One invaluable piece of advice I received was to maintain a separate yearly calendar dedicated solely to wedding plans and events. From vendor open days to meetings with our celebrant, there were numerous milestones to keep track of in the months leading up to our big day. Whether it was paying deposits, attending cake tastings, or dance classes, each task demanded time and attention. By drafting and then digitalising our calendar and setting reminders, we ensured that no detail slipped through the cracks. Breaking down the planning process into monthly milestones became our saviour, providing structure and alleviating overwhelm. The most common pitfall brides face is leaving tasks to the last few months, resulting in unnecessary stress. Planning at least 12 months in advance proved to be the ideal timeline, allowing us to execute our vision with precision and peace of mind.

8. Take Time for Yourself: Amidst the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, don’t forget to prioritise self-care. Whether it’s indulging in a spa day or simply taking a moment to breathe, carving out time for yourself is essential for maintaining balance and perspective. My partner and I made it a point to enjoy date nights and know when to ‘park the wedding chat’ amidst the process, allowing us to recharge and evoke renewed energy and enthusiasm when coming back to it.

9. It’s okay to Delegate: When it comes to wedding planning, it’s crucial to recognise that it’s okay to delegate tasks. Often, the desire for things to be executed to perfection can create tunnel vision or hinder our ability to ask for help. However, learning to entrust certain responsibilities to others can be essential for keeping on top of (and maintaining your sanity) throughout the process. Whether it’s assigning small tasks like DIY decorations or researching bridesmaid dress stores, or larger undertakings such as creating guest seating charts, involving your loved ones can alleviate stress, foster brainstorming sessions, and provide you with invaluable time to focus on other aspects of your special day. Embracing delegation can truly lighten the load and enhance the overall planning experience.

10. It’s your day: Ultimately, it’s essential to remember that your wedding day belongs to you and your partner, not anyone else. It’s easy to get caught up in meeting the expectations of others and feeling pressured to conform to certain standards, but prioritising your own desires is key. Whether it’s deciding who to invite, seating arrangements, determining your budget or choosing the style of your wedding dress, always come back to what truly matters: what you and your partner want. Your wedding should reflect your unique style, values, and traditions, creating a day that is meaningful and unforgettable for both of you. Embracing this mindset ensures that your wedding day is a true celebration of your love and commitment.

Finally, planning your dream wedding is a going to be a journey filled with both incredible highs and even some lows. By embracing the power of organisation, early bookings, and everything else mentioned, you can navigate this chapter with confidence and joy. Remember, your wedding day is a reflection of your love story, and the journey towards it should be cherished just as much as the destination. Here’s to crafting a stress-free wedding of your dreams!