For many brides preparing to wed in 2012, the time is now to begin planning. While 12 months for the August and September brides may seem like a long time to wait, here’s a reality check ladies… It’s not! The big day will be here sooner than you can imagine and take it from me, you don’t want to procrastinate.
The biggest concern with planning for an event so far off in the not-so-distant future is waiting too long to lock in the crucial details.
Right now (by September 30)
No need to rush things right now across the board when it comes to prepping the big day, but at the very least you need to figure out the big DATE. Be mindful of any holidays and any other special family events when considering popular weekends.
Insider’s Tip: beware of Saturday. While it’s a tremendously popular day of the week for weddings and other parties, it’s not always the most budget friendly. Also be conscious of any out-of-town guests who may need to book travel… Flights are most economical mid-week, as are lodging accommodations. So, if possible, consider alternate weekdays like Friday or Sunday for your big day.
The Witching Hour (by Halloween)
While you’re out looking for costumes for the upcoming block parties at ghoulish festivities, stop by the local bridal shop. Most stores won’t require an appointment if you just want to cruise by and check things out… Plus, while you’re there, you can make a more formal appointment to begin trying on dresses to find “the one.”
Also, during this not-so-busy month before the holidays… Invitations. Think about the color scheme you’d like to have at the wedding and the overall style of the event. Choose your invitation suite and order save the dates by Halloween or the first week of November at the latest.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Skip the holiday cards this year and send out save the dates instead! If you’re a springtime or early summer bride (dates through June 30), holiday card timing is also conveniently the perfect time for you to mail out save the dates! Bam. Two cards in one. Throw a festive holiday wish into your card and invite folks to mark their calendar for your big day.
“Ringing” in the New Year
No time like the present to start shopping for wedding bands. With the holidays behind you and many jewelers offering New Year and Valentine’s Day sales, January and February are great months to start the search for your wedding bands – regardless the month of your event.
April Showers Bring May Flowers – and Cake!
By April and May you should have most vendors secured from DJs to photographers and everything in between. But, you don’t have to rush on certain things like flowers and cake. Most florists and bakeries can work with a three month window to events, so if you’re a late summer or autumn bride, April and May are the perfect months to start the search for your florist and cake baker. Organize tastings and consultations with both of these vendors pre-Memorial Day so you can confirm pricing, pay deposits and work through the process without feeling too rushed.
But wait, there’s more… Of course.
There are so many details to planning your wedding that we recommend turning to the experts to fill in the blanks. Whether you choose to hire a coordinator or go the do it yourself route, there are many options out there when it comes to seeking help and advice. Stay in touch with industry news via magazines and newsletters to stay at the front edge when it comes to planning your big day… And we’ll hope to see you back here often as we share the latest on everything from event details to the hottest trends!
