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10 Must-Do’s When Planning Your Summer & Fall Wedding

~ blog by Jennifer Avise ~

 

#1 Book Your Venue ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

 Arguably one of the most important decisions in planning your big day. Once you tell your family and friends the big news, the next question out of their mouth is usually the when and where. Many venues book out several months (and some even over a year) in advance so as soon as you know what day and/or season that you would like to say “I Do” make sure to reserve your venue. Once this aspect of the wedding is finalized it allows most other elements fall into place much easier. 

 

#2 Find Your Ideal Wedding Attire ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

         

This is a focal point for most brides in the initial stages of planning. Between various bridal magazines, countless bridal shows and in-store shopping this task may be overwhelming! Pick out a few styles that you think might work and try them all on. You won't know until you do :)  

 

#3 Choose Your Photographer ~ 8-12 Months in Advance 

        

Many couples tend to overlook the importance of booking a photographer early in the planning process. But be forewarned - they tend to book up almost as fast as venues! When looking into who is the right fit, make sure that you are able to see their portfolio to get an idea of their general style. Besides  budget, make sure that you click with their personality. If you work well together the photos will reflect that. 

 

#4 Wedding Planning & Coordination ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

         

So you realized that you

are not a planner? Well the sooner you book a coordinator the better chance they have of steering you in the right direction from the start. From decor assistance, to day of coordination, and complete planning there are people to help. Don't let the stress of planning get to you down. 

 

#5 Choose Your Caterer ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

          

Food usually tends to be a focal point in most social gatherings (at least in mine it is!) Whether you are planning to offer light fare or a plated formal dinner, chances are that you will need to make a few decisions on what to serve. Keep in mind that the time of your ceremony will reflect the type and amount of food that guests are expecting. Talk to your caterer and give them the chance to make a few suggestions. They may even want to branch out from their normal menu to create something that will fit perfectly with the vision of your wedding. There are a wide variety of options in the Treasure Valley so happy selecting!

 

#6 Finding The Right Dj ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

 

         

Picture your reception.  Do you see background music or a full dance party? Do you have a loud friend or cousin that can efficiently run things? Chances are no. Based on what your idea of entertainment is going to be, it might be a good idea to look into booking a DJ. They can act as an emcee, and help facilitate the reception. It may not seem like an important detail this far out, but keeping things on time and not having to worry about whats next can be worth its weight in gold. 

 

#7 Choose Your Florist ~ 5-8 Months in Advance

       

It might be hard to believe not all flowers grow year round - but its true. Make sure that you take the time to meet with a florist several months before your wedding to ensure that if your dream bouquet has a few out-of-season flowers that they will be there. Also, ask your florist if they specialize in weddings, and if they are familiar with your venue. These questions will make ordering enough flowers to fill the space much easier once the final guest count is in.

 

#8 Create Your Invitations ~ 5-8 Months in Advance

         

It may seem like something that can be pushed off until a few months before the big day but that's not something I would wait too long to do. Invitations are a great way to give your guests a sneak peak at what your vision is going to be and that's not something that should be rushed. Keep in mind, that in order to send out invitations you will need the addresses of all of your guests and compiling a list complete with addresses can be time consuming so don’t put it off for too long.

One other detail that you may want to look into early would be save-the-dates. Going along the similar theme as your invitations, often times companies can package both of these to save you the hassle of choosing another design later on.  

 

#9 Choose Your Rental Equipment ~ 5-8 Months in Advance

          

Do you have this seasons ideal linen color? Are you looking for a special addition to your ceremony or reception? Don’t wait too long! There are only so many speciality linens, archways and gazebos in the Treasure Valley so make sure claim yours' in time. 

 

#10 Plan Your Honeymoon ~ 8-12 Months in Advance

          

Alas, the wedding is over and its time to celebrate – for the first time as a married couple. Whether you are crossing oceans, or city limits your honeymoon is your chance to recuperate. By planning ahead you are able to take advantage of specials offered over the duration of your engagement and you will have the time to seek advice on the "must-do's" of where you are traveling.  

Recently engaged and don't know where to start? Good news! There are a variety of publications and bridal shows in the Treasure Valley that can help you.   

www.zweddings.com - a great resource for all things relating to weddings in the Treasure Valley

http://www.promoteidaho.com/womens-show - a wedding show happening in 2 weeks at the Revolution Event Center 

Happy Planning!