Top 5 things to do when planning a wedding

Congratulations you are engaged! You have undoubtedly been on cloud nine for the last few days or weeks. As you gradually come down from that cloud excitement gives way to panic when realize the magnitude of planning a wedding. All of the small details, all of the big ones and everything in between. Where do you start? Here is a list of items you need to address first.

1. Set a Date

Setting a date will give you an idea to the time of year that you will be working with. Time of year can direct cost, colors, locations and so much more. Also consider that mid week and non wedding season dates are good for your budget. Consider the season that works best for you. A month that is special to the two of you. When you start looking for a venue, the date will be the number one questioned asked by the event coordinator.

2. Set a Budget

Now that you have an idea of when you will be getting married decide how much you will need to pay for this magnificent event. Also, how you are going to pay for it. Scary I know, but very necessary. Remember there is life after the wedding and you don't want to be paying for your wedding on your 5th anniversary. The average wedding cost will be over $28,000.

First, find out where your funding sources will come from. Will you and your fiance pay for everything? Do you have family members that will contribute to the wedding? Did you start saving already? Traditionally, the brides family have absorbed most of the cost of the wedding. Today, that is not always possible; however, you could request that family contribute towards items (i.e flowers, limos, invitations).

Once you are clear of where the funding is coming from, you should then decide what you want to spend on each aspect of the wedding. The average breakdown is as follows:

* If you are budgeting 3$0,000 for this events

40% percent is usually allocated to the reception. This will include site fees, catering costs, bar and beverages, wedding cake, etc.

10% is usually allocated to Music

15% is usually allocated to flowers

15% is usually allocated to Wedding Attire

10% is usually allocated to Wedding Photography

5% is usually allocated to your Stationary

5% should be left of additional items such as bridal party gifts, marriage licence, wedding transport.

Remember that if you spend a little less in one are it could be applied to another area you may want to spend more on. A budget will help you keep focus and not overspend.

Set a Style

Decide on the type of wedding that you like, formal, semi-formal, casual. Where would like to have it? What colors do you like? All questions that you should ask yourself when selecting your style.