Jackie Brown Celebrant- Wedding Planning Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

“You know you’re in love when you don’t want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” Dr. Seuss

“True love stories never have endings.” Richard Bach

“One day, in your search for happiness, you discover a partner by your side, and you realise that your happiness has come to help you search.” Robert Brault

Introduction: Authors Note

Chapter 1: What is a civil ceremony?

Chapter 2: Vendors FAQ

Chapter 3: Wedding Planning Tips

Chapter 4: Your ceremony

Chapter 5: Your vows

Chapter 6: Charts and Checklist

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR

WELCOME , MY FRIEND

NZ Wedding Industry Awards "NZ Outstanding Celebrant"

First of all congratulations, if you ’ re reading this, you must be planning something really exciting

The mere fact that two people have fallen in love is awesome So to get married, that’ s an occasion worth celebrating Weddings should be the most fun ever I am all about marriage I think it’ s the best thing two people can do together unless you count winning Lotto and flying around the world

Honestly, I am such a fan of two people committing themselves to marriage that I always go that extra mile to ensure that your ceremony has that WOW factor There’ s no chance this will be an irrelevant or meaningless affair I can guarantee even the audience are engaged

By choosing me as your celebrant you are not hiring someone to conduct your ceremony As celebrant I will guide you through a journey to and build a tailor made wedding that is as traditional meaningful, fun or quirky as you want it to be 400 weddings to my name, I have the expertise make your day simply incredible, incredibly simple

I will be your personal designer, planner, adviser creative writer, story teller, and public speaker with bags of enthusiasm, warm smiles and lots and experience

Not only am I a celebrant and MC, but I am also a qualified life coach, tour operator and on top of all that I am married to Steve Brown from Black Diamond Photography, who was voted NZ’ s most outstanding wedding photographer so you can get the entire package rolled into one if you so wanted!

www.jackiebrowncelebrant.co.nz Bay of Plenty Weddings

Your ceremony is created with you in mind - to suit you as an individual, you in partnership, your beliefs, your vision of your ceremony - whether it is your wedding, to welcome your baby into the world, to renew your vows or a commitment to your soul mate

Your ceremony will reflect who you are and be something you will remember all of your life Your guests will enjoy your ceremony when they see that it expresses you, your heart and soul, your special day Your civil ceremony allows you to express your feelings and beliefs while still honouring any time honoured traditions that are meaningful to you. I will guide you to add your own special touches to your ceremony and you can carry this through to your celebration afterwards. You are welcome to have as much input into your ceremony as you wish to - I will work with your ideas or give you ideas to make your ceremony special and heart warming

www.jackiebrowncelebrant.co.nz Bay of Plenty Weddings

What is a Civil ceremony?

A civil ceremony is basically a one-stop shop. It's legally binding, which means you won't have to have two ceremonies. A religious ceremony is not legally binding, so either before or after your religious ceremony, you'll need to pay a visit to city hall to obtain your marriage license to make it legal.

THE ORDER MATTERS :

EXACTLY WHEN TO BOOK EACH VENDOR ( AND WHY )

Planning a wedding is like putting a giant puzzle together — with each interlocking piece, an overarching vision will start to emerge. Your vendors are responsible for bringing each of those pieces to life, so it's important to book trustworthy and reputable professionals that you are confident can execute your needs But how do you know where to begin?

1.Venue

You'll want to reserve your venue ASAP, especially if you plan to tie the knot in a popular venue, where dates can book up as much as one (or even two) years in advance

2. Celebrant

Basically you cannot do without us!!! We are the one that are licensed by the New Zealand Government to officiate your ceremony and make it legal.

3. Caterer

If your venue doesn't offer onsite catering, then you'll need to look into hiring an offsite caterer Many catering companies provide not only food and beverages, but also rentals such as tables, chairs, linens, plates, and silverware Many couples book their wedding venue and catering company in tandem with each other, since they often take up the largest chunk of the budget

4. Photographer

Popular photographers book up quickly, so this should be one of the first tasks that you tackle. "Your photographer is the mouthpiece for all of your planning, designing, and execution" and you cannot find a better mouth piece than my award winning husband from www.blackdiamondphotography.co.nz who has won many accolades and voted Wedding Industry Awards "Most Outstanding Wedding Photographer of the year However if you already have your photographer that is wonderful!

BUT WAIT THERE IS MORE

5. Music and Entertainment

A fantastic DJ or band will get guests' energy up and ensure that the dance floor is packed all night long If you're open to exploring a number of DJs and bands, then a good rule of thumb is to start the process about nine to six months before the big day so that you can check out each prospective vendor live in action There's also been an increased demand for unique entertainment options for wedding receptions, so if you have a particular type of performer in mind (e.g. an electric violinist, a fire eater, or a dance troupe), then don't procrastinate, since there are a limited number available per area

6. Florist

In general, couples will meet with florists anywhere from a year to six months out By this point, they've selected your date, venue, gown, and bridesmaid dresses, and these components can significantly influence the types of arrangements you ultimately choose,. Also remember to consider what flowers are in season

7. Videographer

You'll want to begin exploring videography at least six months before the wedding to ensure you have a range of options available to you. Since you'll have your ceremony and reception locations finalised, you can determine if your prospective videographer has worked there before.

8. Hair and Makeup Artists

Beauty services used to be a last minute addition to a wedding budget, but those days are long gone Popular artists can book up six months to a year in advance, so if you have a great recommendation or have been admiring an artist's work on social media, reach out now There's nothing sadder than getting an 'oops, too late' request from a bride who waited and now I'm already booked on her date However, you don't want to schedule your beauty trials too far in advance — three months prior to the wedding date should give you plenty of time

9. Cake Designer

Brides and grooms should hire their cake designer about six to three months in advance, which ensures that they have booked all the other main details and definitively gauged the vision of their big day.

10. Transportation

Most couples book their wedding transportation about three months from their wedding date Check with your photographer if you require the wedding car for your portraiture shots

Marriage Certificates and Licences: Everything

You Need to Know

While the ceremony and celebration are the most memorable parts of a wedding, if you want it to be legal, the most important part is the signing of the marriage licence. This document legally binds the two of you together and plays a big role if you're planning on changing your name.(which is only optional)

Obtaining a marriage licence and, subsequently, a marriage certificate is a multistep process

What's the difference between a marriage licence and a marriage certificate?

A marriage licence is what you get first, and it's basically an application to be married and is officially called "Particulars of Parties to Marriage- BDM45. Once you have filled it out, had your ceremony, had it witnessed and signed, and I have sent my copy into Births, Deaths and Marriages, then you receive a marriage certificate a couple of weeks later

The marriage certificate is a certified copy the married couple will receive post wedding, which proves you are officially married, this is evidence for banks, passport office and DVLA (drivers licence).

HERE ' S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO DO ,

STEP - BY - STEP , TO GET ( AND COMPLETE ) YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE AND MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE

.

STEP 1

Get a marriage licence Before you get married, you need to apply for a licence A licence confirms it’ s legal for you to marry It costs $150 if you use a celebrant,

STEP 2

Before you can apply for a marriage license, you need to know where and when you'll be getting married Why? Because you typically have to file your marriage license application to the Births, Deaths and Marriages website,

You need to arrange your licence at least 3 working days before you get married

It expires after 3 months Ihis cost is on top of the celebrant fee Only one of you needs to complete the application, but you need information about both of you.

STEP 3

Information required: You will need both your parents' full birth names and if either of your have been divorced or have lost a spouse through death you will need the date of the dissolution of marriage or date of death.

STEP 4

You’ll be sent the licence, and 2 copies of the “Copy of Particulars of Marriage”— a form with all the details of the people getting married Give all 3 of these documents to your celebrant before your wedding However you can give permission for me to receive these and not only do I keep them safe, I print out onto parchment paper

STEP 5

On the day: Now that you have your marriage license, it's time to gather up some signatures Naturally, the couple must be present when it's time to sign the marriage license post ceremony It's better to get this taken care of early on before the party gets going and the drinks start flowing. This is one wedding detail you do not want to forget

Two Witnesses These could be your parents, your maid of honour and best man, or any other friends you nominate for the honour They must be physically present and, well, watch the two of you sign the marriage license.. then after the ceremony you receive one copy and the 2nd copy I send into BDM

CHAPTER

TWO

Questions to ask your vendors

www jackiebrowncelebrant co nz | © 2021 Jackie Brown

THE VENUE

GENERAL SET UP DECORATIONS

Is the venue available on the date you need it?

How many guests can the banquet room accommodate?

What are their wedding packages and what is included?

How long are you able to have the room? What rooms are included? Bathrooms, bridal party rooms, lounge area, cocktail area, and coatroom?

Is there a designated smoking area? Is an outdoor area included for a cocktail reception?

Is the room accessible for disabled guests?

What does a typical layout of the room on the wedding day look like?

Do they have photographs to show you of other receptions?

Can you come back and see it set up for another wedding?

Who is the main venue contact for day of wedding?

Is there anything you need to bring in that they do not have?

When can you start decorating?

Are there decorating restrictions?

Can the centerpieces contain candles? What do they use for table settings? What decorations does the venue provide?

How many people can sit at one table? Are there booster seats or high chairs available for children?

FOOD

What are the different ways the venue serves food? Buffet, family style, individual plates?

Do they provide in house catering? If not, do they have a preferred list of caterers?

Can you arrange for a tasting?

Is there a cost for a tasting?

What does the venue provide for drinks with the meal?

Can they accommodate special diets?

How many choices can you offer your guests for meals?

How many wait staff will be provided?

QUESTIONS FOR VENUES

Do they provide a place for the cake?

Do they provide a cutting knife?

Is there a cake cutting fee?

Alcohol

Does the venue have a liquor license to serve alcohol?

Does the venue provide the alcohol and bar service?

What drinks are included in the pricing?

Do they provide a cash bar or an open bar?

Does the venue hire the bartenders and is there a charge per bartender?

Do they charge for unopened bottles after the reception?

Is there a corkage fee?

Are there any restrictions on the type or quantity of alcohol to be served?

Can wine be given as a party favor?

Music/Dancing

Can you bring in a band or DJ?

What do they have for a sound system? Speakers, microphones, etc.?

When can the band or DJ set up?

How many people does the dance floor accommodate?

What time do they allow the music to play until?

What is the total cost and what is required for a deposit?

Do they offer payment plans?

What type of payment can they take – cash, check, credit card? What it their cancellation policy?

Rain Back up Plan (for outdoor locations)

Do they have outdoor covered areas such as canopies or tents in case of rain?

Do they have indoor space available if you need to move people outside to inside?

Do they have a generator for power outages?

Can the venue accommodate the ceremony?

Are the ceremony and reception held in the same room or separate rooms?

If same room, what can be expected for set up and take down to switch over from the ceremony to the reception?

How long will it take?

Does the venue provide the seating for the ceremony?

What is the cost to have both the ceremony and reception at the venue?

Are you able to have a rehearsal at the venue and a rehearsal dinner?

Can rose petals be strewn?

Are there overnight accommodations or do they partner with local hotels?

What are the room rates?

Is there a wedding discount for blocks of rooms?

Where do guests park and how many spots are available?

Flowers are a special touch to help make your wedding beautiful. That is why it’s important to choose a florist that can meet your needs and fit within your budget.

Your menu is an integral part of your special day. That is why it’s important to choose a caterer that can meet your needs and fit within your budget. To guide you, we put together a list of questions to ask potential caterers.

Availability

Not sure where to start when it comes to interviewing your wedding photographer of choice? I've rounded up a list of questions to ask your photographer that will help you narrow down your options when it comes to everything you need to know. (photography time line in last chapter)

Background Check

Style

Pricing and Packages

Prints and Albums

ogistics

Let's be honest here: The music can make or break a party, which means the band or DJ is one of the most important factors of your reception. And you definitely don't want to hire someone without thoroughly vetting them first. Ask the below questions when you meet with any potential musicians to find the right fit for you.

Your wedding makeup has to look flawless, gorgeous and most importantly, like you! Don’t worry, we know exactly how to find the right makeup artist for you, so sit back and enjoy the trial runs – here are some questions to ask!

Do you specialise in wedding makeup?

Can I see photographs of brides whose makeup you did?

Can I contact them for references?

What does your price include?

Are you able to travel to my location?

How long will makeup take on the day?

Will a fake tan affect my makeup?

What will happen if you can’t make it on my wedding day? If you are happy to travel to my home, do you have any specific space requirements for the trial and for the wedding day?

Floral wedding cakes: Sculptural Wedding Cakes

One-Tier Wedding Cakes

Colourful wedding cakes and themed

Semi nude Wedding Cakes: c

REAL VS ARTIFICIAL WEDDING FLOWERS ON YOUR BIG DAY

Flowers on your wedding day are a truly stunning addition to your wedding styling They can be used for everything from a personal touch with your bouquet to a communal focal piece like your centrepieces. It doesn’t matter how you use it; we love flowers!

And it seems like we ’ re not the only ones 92% of all couples will have floral features on their wedding day But choosing the right suppliers or picking roses or peonies (or both!) might not be the only decision you need to make with your flowers. Many couples also need to consider whether they’ re going to have real flowers or artificial pieces for their day

The majority of all couples (57%) will choose fresh flowers for their big day, while another 20% will opt for artificial. These are being used for bouquets primarily. However, buttonholes, centrepieces, floral cake decor and wedding arbours are also massively popular Interestingly, 23% of couples will actually have a combination of both real and artificial flowers at their wedding. The obvious reason a lot of couples want to use artificial blooms mixed with fresh flowers is because of availability, they want may be out of season Another reason could be that the couple wants a specific colour that is more easily achieved in an artificial flower than a fresh one

Do We Have to Invite All of Our Guests With a Plus One?

Can We Make Some Exceptions for Our Adults-Only Wedding?

Do We Have to Invite Everyone We Work With to the Wedding?

e Were Invited to a Friend’s Wedding—Do We Have to Reciprocate?

Do We Have to Invite Our Single Friends With a Plus One?

So when should save the date cards be sent?

What key information should you include on your save the datecards?

.The date of the wedding,

The city of the event.

The name of the couple.

he wedding website.

HONOURING OTHERS

Honouring Others – Weddings are great times to honour those who have spurred you on to greatness and to remember those who have passed In my ceremonies I always have a candle on my table for those who have gone before us and have a moment of reflection Many people use their signing table as a place photos There are many creative ways to honour your loved ones at your wedding Reserve a seat in their honour, add an heirloom to your bouquet or dress, incorporate a special flower, arrange a memory table at the reception, and don't forget to toast them during the speeches

AS A PRACTICED MC HERE ARE A FEW HINTS

1. Be organised

Have everything written down in advance and know exactly what you’re going to say. Make sure you have the correct names and information and a detailed timeline. The MC says opening remarks (not a long speech) and introduces all of the key players of the wedding. A good wedding MC is organized, responsible and can take instructions well, . It’s about the bride and groom and not about the MC’s fifteen minutes of fame.

2. Know what’s going on (and make sure everyone else knows too)

One of the essential roles of the wedding MC is to work with the vendors so everyone knows what’s going on. It’s very important to know the flow of the evening and make sure everyone is ready for his or her cues,. The MC is there to lead the audience and have them know what’s happening next. They should make sure everything is running on time and that the DJ, photographer and vendors are cued to capture key moments.

3. Do your homework

when I am teaching presenters I suggest watching major award shows, like the Grammys, or looking to talk show hosts for ideas. These people know what they’re doing. You can see everything is short, scripted and to the point,. The most important thing is to be prepared. Meet with the bride and groom beforehand to discuss details and what kind of role they see the MC playing. There will still be some surprises on the day, but there should be a program or itinerary in place to make sure everything runs smoothly,”

WWW

Do we have to remember our vows?

Can I include our children in the ceremony?

How can I include children ?

Do we have a dress rehearsal?

What does my celebrant fee include?

What are my qualifications?

How many weddings have they performed?

I s and

I am a member of CANZ (Celebrants Association of NZ)

How many weddings do you book per day?

How many meetings are needed before the wedding?

What equipment do you provide?

Can you provide me vows?

How do you personalise our ceremony?

when you arrive on the day?

What will you wear?

Can guests do readings in a ceremony with a wedding celebrant?

I love to use guest involvement to really add something a little bit special to the ceremony, and depending on the couple, we can add elements of religion, acknowledge a cultural background, or even a family tradition. I bring with me a rustic lamp which I light as ritual into a ceremony to remember those that cannot be there, numerous Celtic mini-handfasting variations, the creation of marriage time capsules, sand ceremonies and a whole host of other lovely activities too! You really can make it truly personal, and unique to you.

Can any type of music be played during a celebrant ceremony?

Yes indeed. As your celebrant can talk you through various music options with you in advance. There are no restrictions when it comes to music during your celebrant ceremony at all and so you can opt for something that you both love, and not feel limited in your choices .Either I can play your music (via Spotify) via Bluetooth from my phone to my amp, or you may choose for your DJ to do the ceremony music.

Nearer the time I will ask for the name of the 3 songs you choose for the ceremony.

It’s your day so be as creative as you wish, and have a truly personal day. Using a wedding celebrant means you will have a beautifully bespoke ceremony, created just for you. Create wonderful memories and make your day unforgettable. After facilitating over 300 weddings and winning the Wedding Industry Awards "most outstanding Celebrant" I think I have got it right.

The Pros and Cons of Beach Weddings

Beach weddings are popular but they do present "special issues". Failing to consider these ahead of time could leave you unpleasantly surprised on your wedding day! There is certainly nothing that should dissuade you from your vision of a beautiful seaside ceremony. As a matter of fact, there are many benefits. Just know the issues and plan for them.

The "Pros"

* A beach wedding can be much cheaper than a traditional wedding. Who in this day and age can't afford to save money? It is said that the average budget for a wedding these days is between $10,000 to $30,000! That is an enormous and unnecessary financial burden to be faced with! Don't start off married life enslaved by your wedding day debts. If you have that kind of money to spend, fine, but if not, don't go there! Be practical and remember, the day is what you, your loved ones and your friends make of it...not how much you spent on it!

* A beach wedding can be a casual affair. It allows everyone to relax. Your guests can dress comfortably and affordably. Often brides-to-be are unaware of the financial strain they place on their wedding attendants and guests. Not everyone can afford to buy that wedding outfit.

* The wedding ceremony and reception can all be held right there on the beach. No need to travel to different locations. This is very convenient for everyone. Hey, even the kids can have fun at a beach wedding!

* A beach wedding allows you to involve everyone in the activities. Guests are not restricted to sitting quietly in their seats. They can actually be a part of the celebration!

* Beach weddings don't always require a permit- Always check with your Local Council . If you are having a small ceremony and do not require a section of the beach to be blocked off...just do it! Simple yet lovely!

* A beach wedding is a modern and refreshing change from the "stodgy" traditional wedding. It allows your creativity and personality to shine through.

* There is no "right" or "wrong way" to plan a beach front wedding. It can be large, small, romantic, whimsical or even downright goofy! You can pay big bucks and hire everything out, or, you can be cheap and make everything yourself. The choice is completely yours!

Beach weddings are absolutely beautiful but nature does provide an element of uncertainty. Careful planning on your part will eliminate most of them. Just remember... If every hair is not in place due to the ocean breezes or a seagull drops off his "wedding gift" a little to close to the punch bowl... These are not flaws or imperfections in your day. They are "memories"! Cherish them and have fun!

The "Cons"

* The most important thing to remember when planning a beach wedding is that "Mother Nature" rules! Depending on her mood, she can brighten your day or rain on your parade! When planning your celebration, be sure to plan an "alternate location" should the old girl be cranky that day!

* The beach is usually a bit breezy so take that into consideration when picking your location. Try to choose a "cove" on the beach that is protected from direct winds. Sound also does not travel well at a beach side wedding, even with a PA system a great deal of the words in the service is carried away in the wind.

* Be sure to check with local authorities regarding any permits needed to use the beach. This should only be necessary if you are having a large gathering and you want to block off a portion of the beach exclusively for you and your guests. Ask to be sure though.

* Check on the "Beach Rules". Ask questions. Can you have candles on the beach? Can you play music into the night? How late can you stay? Is there an area nearby for open fires should you choose to barbeque?

* Speaking of food...don't forget about the seagulls! They are notorious beggars and thieves. You can expect them to attend your beach wedding, uninvited! As long as you keep food covered and don't feed them, they will stay on the sidelines.

* Remember the tides. You definitely do not want to be surprised by the quick and unanticipated arrival of high tide!

* On the beach, there will be bugs and sunshine! Make sure you consider the comfort of your guests. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent for those who did not remember to bring their own.

* Chairs may sink in the sand if you do not rent flooring to place under them. However, if you are planning a "beach blanket" reception, you will not need chairs. Remember your elderly guests though. Plan for their safety and comfort. You will need to provide them with chairs and umbrellas to protect them from the elements.

and not to mention all the people on the beach who will come over and watch

1. Say "I love you."

. Tell your partner you'll be there through thick and thin.

3. Share personal stories.

. Actually make promises.

5. Acknowledge the support you'll need from others.

1. Don't wait until the last minute.

2. Make a list of all your thoughts.

3. Don't try to include everything.

4. Avoid words like "always" and "never."

5. Embrace sentimentality.

6 Go after laughter.

7. Get inspired by books, songs, movies, and poems.

8. Practice reading out loud.

9. Indicate pauses and intonation

0.Ask a trusted friend to listen.

11 If you choose not to send them to me,

2. Keep the vows a secret from your partner until the ceremony.

AND

BECAUSE PLANNING THE

The Following Vows Can Be Mixed & Matched

E

asy recipe to write your own Vows

STARTERS

Sample Wedding Vows - Starters

• I, ______, choose you, ______, as my best friend for life

• I, ______, choose you, ______, to embark upon this great journey of marriage with me

• I, ______, take you, ______ ,as my soulmate and companion

• I, ______, take you, ______, to be my wife my partner my friend my confidant my soulmate

MIDDLE OF YOUR VOWS

• Together, we can accomplish anything

• Together we will be better than we could be alone

• Together, we will share our love with the world.

• Together, our love will grow into a bond too strong to break

• Our love may be like the ebb and tide of the ocean, but it will always flow

Through the good and bad I want you to always know that I will be by your side

I will be there for you in the ups and downs of life

•I pledge my all to you

THE FINAL PLEDGE

•When you need someone to encourage you, I want it to be me. When you need a helping hand, I want it to be mine When you long for someone to smile at, turn to me When you have something to share, share it with me.

• Though life may not always be as perfect as it is at this moment, I vow to always keep my love as pure as it is today

I promise to be there for you in your laughter and your tears, in your sickness and your health, in your comfort and your fears, in your poverty and your wealth. I know that our love is heaven sent, and I promise to be there for you for all your life, come what may

Your emergency kit

Panadol and Gaviscon. A headache is a good possibility and nerves could cause an upset tummy, make sure you have these two things stocked up Breath mints

Something to eat. Maybe prepare a nice cheese and cracker tray the night before, not just for yourself, but for your attendants too. It would also be nice to have one available for the groom and groomsmen. The one thing that people always forget to do is eat, so finger snacks are probably more practical. Also take food and drink to your photo shoot!

Extra makeup. This is especially important if you are not having your makeup person with you all day. We have no doubt that you will want to touch up your makeup several times through the course of the day. Make sure you have powder to get rid of shine and lipstick. Hand mirror to go along with the makeup. Stain remover wipes just in case a nasty spot suddenly appears in all too wrong a place on your dress. And right before that all important picture!!! Hand lotion.

Q-tips and tissues. The makeup is going to run, you're probably going to cry. Be sure you can touch up easily.

Tampons. This is for the bride that might be close to that time of the month. Nerves could bring it on. Always be prepared and never leave it to chance. Nail Polish and a Nail File. Gee my nails look great! until you break one. Don't leave it to chance, be prepared.

Extra pairs of tights/stockings. This is particularly important if you are planning the garter shot, which in most cases comes closer to the end of the evening. You're fresh pair in the morning could be a nightmare by the evening, Safety Pins, Masking Tape, Stapler, Small Mending Kit. Oh No! my dress ripped. No problem because Jackie my celebrant made sure that I was prepared. That's right, it could happen, you're dress could rip, the hem could come down, etc. Always be prepared. Something as simple as masking tape could save the day on a dropping hem.

WEDDING PLANNER CHECKLIST

Set date

Set budget & divide cost

Research & visit venues

Decide on guest list

Purchase bridal attire

Find officiant

Hire wedding celebrant (ME)

Send invitations

Shop for rings

Get marriage licence

Register for gifts

Find a florist

Suits for the boys

Finalise vendor details

Send save the dates

Arrange transportation

Shop & order wedding cake

Find MUA & Hairstylist

Hens Night

Stag Night

Set asi de payment for vendors

Distribute wedding timeline

Finalise everything

Get married!

NOTES

Jackie Brown Celebrant

THE WEDDING PLANNER

URGENT THINGS TO DO

MENU

PEOPLE TO CALL

Time line for a 3pm wedding

JACKIE BROWN'S

WEDDING PREP CEREMONY RECEPTION DANCE

MY MONTHLYWEDDING PLANNER

GOALS FOR THE MONTH

DATES TO REMEMBER IMPORTANT NOTES

Making Room for What Matters in Your Wedding Budget

Prioritise what's important to you, by choosing 2 to 3 "most important" items. Filling out the

Couples Wedding Questionnaire” may help in this process

Rate the following in order of importance (put a 1 next to the thing that is most important to you, through a 10 next to the thing that is least important to you):

When I look back on our wedding, I want to most remember: (choose 1)

How exciting everything was How smoothly and easily everything went

How romantic it was How beautiful it was

How happy my parents and family were How "proper" everything was

Circle two to three words that you think will describe your wedding: Fun

Romantic

Even though you may not yet have put together a budget, or know who is contributing to

wedding,

think your wedding should

Once you have filled it out, use your answers to start planning your wedding. For example, you might use the budget number as a target to discuss with anyone who might help contribute to the wedding. If you both agree that flowers are more important to you than music, for example, you might choose to allocate a greater percentage of your budget to flowers, and save costs on music by having a DJ or using an mp3 player. Remember I bring a huge amp and speakers to your ceremony

YourWeddingBudgetWorksheet

MyTotalBudget___________

Expenses

Ceremony

Location fee, celebrant fee, marriage license, musician's fees, ring pillows

Reception

Reception Site, Food, Drinks, Rentals, Cake, Favours

Attire

Dress, Headpiece/veil, undergarments, shoes, accessories, jewellery, hair and makeup, Groom's Tuxedo or Suit, shoes, bow tie, cuff links, Rings

His and her rings, engraving Flowers

Ceremony, bride's bouquet, maid-of-honour and bridesmaid bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres, centrepieces, flower-girl basket

Music

Ceremony Musicians, Band and/or DJ, cocktail hour musicians, sound system rental

Photography

Photographer fees, albums, additional prints, disposable cameras for candid’s Transportation

Transportation for wedding party, guest shuttle and/or parking attendants

Stationery

Invitations, response cards, thank you notes, postage, calligraphy, guest book Gifts

Bridesmaid and groomsmen, parents, welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.

“A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences.”

"You make me happier than I ever thought I could be and if you let me, I will spend the rest of my life trying to make you feel the same way."

— CHANDLER, PROPOSING TO MONICA ON FRIENDS