Wedding Planning Guide

So you’re engaged, and you’re thinking now what?

Firstly congratulations! Wanting to spend forever with your significant other is a HUGE milestone in your relationship – enjoy it. Enjoy the time you have together and the process of your wedding planning, because before you know it the day will be over.

Now for the wedding planning, as a wedding photographer myself – I have seen it all.

As a wedding photographer, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to work with the most amazing clients, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. From navigating last-minute changes to braving unruly weather, I’ve witnessed brides and grooms experiencing the best day of their lives amidst all circumstances.

What I’ve learnt is that embracing the unexpected is key. Expect last-minute changes and prepare yourself to be okay with whatever comes your way. Remember, your loved ones are there to celebrate you, rain or shine. The most important thing is that you’re having a great time, and enjoying your special day.

Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind of decisions, deadlines, and endless to-do lists. However, with a strategic approach, you can navigate the process with confidence and ease.

Here is the Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide, to make your life just a little bit less overwhelming:

1. Establish your PRIORITIES

What aspects of your wedding are non-negotiable? Whether it’s a specific venue that holds sentimental value or a cherished vendor you’ve been dreaming of working with, prioritise reaching out to them first to ensure their availability. By securing these key elements early on, you can build the rest of your plans around them.

Additionally, consider the needs of your guests, especially those traveling from afar. If you have family or friends coming from interstate or overseas, reach out to them early in the planning process to coordinate dates and accommodation. This ensures that they can make it to your special day without any conflicts.

After establishing your priorities, consider a rough budget based off of them and the scope of your wedding – where are you willing to invest more for value.

2. Book in your VENUE for the ceremony and reception. Some couples have both the ceremony and reception at the same place, where’s others choose to have two different locations. It’s a personal preference.

3. Choose THE DATE you wish your wedding ceremony and reception to be on. (Considering venue availability)

4. Hire your WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER. Now you have a date and a venue booked in place, booking in your wedding photographer at least 8 months in advance is a must – to secure your date. Wedding photographers book out quickly in advance due to only being able to do 1 – 2 weddings per weekend.

5. Decide on your GUEST LIST, and roughly how many people you are wanting to attend your special day. This will also help what venue you are after as well, whether you need a larger venue or something a bit more intimate.

6. Most venues already offer CATERING with their price guides, however if they don’t you can outsource a caterer for food and drinks to be supplied at your wedding.

7. Choosing your WEDDING GOWN & GROOMS SUIT. Something to be mindful of is, if you are wanting custom made wedding gowns and suits, they take more time to make and alter. Compared to already pre-made gowns and suits that just need to be altered.

8. HAIR & MAKEUP, if you are wanting to have your hair and makeup done by a professional. It would be best to also secure in your date as most of the time, they come out on the day to you.

9. INVITATIONS, FLORALS, CAKE, ENTERTAINMENT & TRANSPORT

Let’s talk about the fun stuff – invitations, florals, and cake! What color or design scheme are you envisioning? Whether it’s soft pastels for a romantic vibe, bold hues for a statement look, or something entirely unique, these details add a personal touch to your big day.

Don’t forget about entertainment and transportation – a DJ or live band? A Shuttle services for your guest? How about a classic convertible for the newly Weds?

10. Lastly, it’s time to focus on the details that will make your day truly unforgettable – from selecting decor that reflects your style to considering unique touches like a Wedding Audio Guest Book. These personal details add depth and meaning to your celebration, creating cherished memories for years to come. Maybe there’s something else that speaks to you and enhances your beautiful day!

I hope this guide has made your decision planning less stressful, and if you are looking for a Wedding Photographer in Adelaide – feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat and see how I can help capture all the magic of your big day.

– Sabrina x