Preparing to plan
The best way to keep things running smoothly and stress levels manageable is to have some type of organizational system to sort out your planning information.Whether you use dedicated file folders, a binder or even just a single box, make this the place to keep all wedding-related data. But remember, this will only work if you are committed to it. (Having a timetable may also help. We’ve provided one for you on p. 75.)
Begin with a budget How much money is available to spend? Who pays for what? Who makes the major spending decisions? When assessing these issues, make sure everyone involved is as clear, open, honest and—most importantly—as realistic as possible. The more that’s established and made clear now will make for easier planning and decision making later on.
Size things up The number of expected guests and the desired type of reception will set the tone for all other planning decisions, so it’s important to get a handle on this early.The preliminary guest list should consist of the bride’s family and parents’ friends; the groom’s family and parents’ friends; and the couple’s friends. Since many locations may have requirements for the minimum and/or maximum number of guests, this information is invaluable when conducting your site search. Determine the specifications that will set the style of your party. Large or small? Formal or informal? Evening or daytime? Outside or inside? Winter, spring, summer or fall? Again, this information is a must-have for finding the ideal location (at the ideal time and price).
Help Yes, it is your wedding but that doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Family members and close friends will most likely volunteer their services for any weddingplanning task.As a savvy project manager you will, of course, take them up on it.You may even ask them before they ask you! Keep in mind that delegating doesn’t mean compromising your vision; it means achieving it with less stress.
The deciding factor So what really determines the size and scope of your wedding? For some, cash is king when it comes to deciding on the size and location. For others, a particular artistic or thematic vision may determine the place and cost. Whatever the driving force, you might find that you’re addressing the first three tasks listed here simultaneously. Don’t panic: There’s no specific method for making these decisions. Your best bet is to keep a list of what’s most/least important to you. By prioritizing (and, in some cases, re-prioritizing) your wants and needs, you’ll be more equipped to make the “tough” choices. B&G
508-791-9100 www.AAtransportation.com
Providing limousine, party bus and shuttle services throughout New England.
~ Casino Trips ~ Concerts ~ Proms ~ Special Events ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Proms ~
Need some help getting started? Here are a few tips to point you in the right direction.
The big “O” – Organization, that is
~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Sporting Events
This mantra is as meaningful for weddings as it is for real estate.Whether your site is a fabulous hall or hotel, a beautiful park or your own backyard, options abound. It all depends upon the size of your reception and budget. Use these sources to find your ideal site: local bridal magazines (like B&G), the phone book, the Internet and references from family/ friends.
~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Sporting Events
Location, location, location
~ Casino Trips ~ Concerts ~ Proms ~ Special Events ~ Rehearsal Dinners ~ Bachelor/ette Parties ~ Weddings ~ Proms ~
Sporting Events ~ Concerts ~ Casino Trips
B& G Planning 101
rickenglishphotographer.com
Sporting Events ~ Concerts ~ Casino Trips
www.bridegroommag.com
BRIDE&GROOM
Fall 2008
77