Wedding 101: Your Go-To Guide for Planning the Perfect Day

Congratulations! You’re engaged and about to embark on one of the most exciting journeys of your life: planning your wedding. It’s a time filled with love, joy, and a little bit of chaos. But don’t worry, we are here to help you navigate the ins and outs of wedding planning. From picking your venue to selecting the perfect flowers, this guide will give you the basics to make your big day everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

1. Start with a Budget: The Not-So-Fun but Totally Necessary Step

Let’s get real – weddings can get expensive fast. Before you dive into planning, sit down with your partner and decide on a budget that works for you. Talk about what’s most important to both of you, whether it’s the food, the music, or the dress. Setting a budget early will help you make decisions that keep your finances in check, and avoid any surprises down the road.

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2. Find the Perfect Venue: Where Your Love Story Unfolds

Your wedding venue is more than just a location; it’s where your love story takes center stage. Whether you’re dreaming of a fairytale castle, a rustic barn, or a sandy beach, the venue sets the mood for your entire day. Think about the vibe you want – intimate and cozy or grand and glamorous? Once you have a vision, start touring venues and see which one feels just right.

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3. Craft Your Guest List: A Balancing Act of Love

Creating a guest list can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to invite everyone you love, but you also need to consider your budget and venue size. Start with a list of must-haves – close family and friends – then move on to extended family and acquaintances. And remember, it’s your day! Don’t feel pressured to invite everyone. It’s about celebrating with the people who matter most.

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4. Choose a Theme and Colors: Make It Uniquely You

Your wedding theme and color scheme are where your personalities shine. Think about what represents you as a couple. Are you whimsical and fun? Maybe a bohemian theme with lots of greenery and earthy tones. Classic and elegant? Black tie with gold accents might be more your style. Whatever you choose, let it be a reflection of your love story.

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5. Book Your Vendors: Your Wedding Dream Team

Think of your vendors as your wedding day team – they’re there to make your dreams a reality. Start by booking the big ones: your wedding planner (Wed By Riti Riwaz), photographer, and caterer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and see examples of their work. A great vendor will listen to your ideas, offer suggestions, and help bring your vision to life.

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6. Find the Perfect Attire: Feel Like a Star

This is your chance to shine! Whether it’s a stunning gown, a sleek suit, or something more unconventional, choose attire that makes you feel amazing. Take your time with fittings, try on different styles, and have fun with it. And don’t forget about your wedding party – coordinating outfits can really tie your whole theme together.

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7. Create a Timeline: Your Wedding Day Blueprint

A well-thought-out timeline is like your wedding day roadmap. It helps keep everything on track and ensures you get to enjoy every moment. Work with your planner (us) to create a schedule that includes time for getting ready, photos, the ceremony, and of course, the celebration! Share this timeline with your vendors and bridal party to keep everyone in the loop.

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8. Add Personal Touches: Make It Your Own

What makes your wedding truly yours? Personal touches! Whether it’s a special reading during your ceremony, a playlist of your favorite songs, or handmade favors for your guests, these details make your day memorable. Think about what makes you and your partner unique and find ways to weave that into your wedding.

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9. On-Site Coordination: Sit Back and Enjoy

On your wedding day, you shouldn’t have to worry about anything other than saying “I do” and having the time of your life. That’s where we come in, as your onsite coordinators. We'’ll handle all the details, coordinate with vendors, and ensure everything runs smoothly, so you can be fully present and enjoy every moment.

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10. Remember to Enjoy the Moment: It’s Your Day!

After all the planning, it’s time to relax and enjoy the day you’ve been dreaming of. Take a deep breath, look around, and soak it all in. This day is about celebrating your love and the beginning of your journey together. Dance, laugh, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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Final Thoughts

Planning a wedding is a big job, but it’s also one of the most special times in your life. By following these steps and staying true to what you and your partner want, you can create a wedding that is uniquely yours. If you need more help or inspiration, we at Wed by Riti Riwaz are here to make your dream wedding a reality. Happy planning!