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STEP 01 |
Try to visualize your wedding from beginning to end. What kind of location have you pictured as the ideal setting? Will it be black-tie, formal, or informal? What kind of attire will your wedding party wear? Will you have a sit-down meal or a buffet? How about entertainment? Would you prefer live music or a DJ? How many guests will you invite? |
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STEP 02 |
You'll need to choose a wedding date before you can go much further. Popular vendors are extremely busy on prime dates so you really can't start planning too early. |
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STEP 03 |
Figure out what your budget will be. Allow for some flexibility. If you're planning very far in advance, you should start a Wedding Fund. Do your due diligence and find out what things generally cost. In the current economy planning ahead can save you money. Don't be shy - negotiate! |
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STEP 04 |
Time to buy your rings. Ask around about reputable jewelry companies. There can be a huge disparity in pricing for similar rings from jeweler to jeweler. |
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STEP 05 |
Determine the sites for your ceremony and reception and book them. Once again popular venues book early. You'll have to put down deposits so make sure of your choices and be prepared financially. Generally the deposits are non-refundable. |
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STEP 06 |
Decide how formal or informal your ceremony will be, then choose and meet with your officiant. Be very clear about what you expect from them. |
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STEP 07 |
Choose your wedding party. Then discuss the attire. How much can your bridesmaids and groomsmen afford to spend on their gown or suit? |
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STEP 08 |
Find and purchase your wedding dress and groom's attire |
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STEP 09 |
Plan your guest list. Be realistic about which guests can actually attend - your real list will determine the size of your reception area and number of meals if you're doing a sit-down. |
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STEP 10 |
Determine your vendors and hire them. This should include your caterer (if necessary), photographer, videographer, and live musicians or DJ (you might want live music for the ceremony and cocktails and then a DJ for the reception- or you might want a band to perform all of your musical needs |
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STEP 11 |
Find out when you'll need your marriage license, and make preparations to acquire one |
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STEP 12 |
Order your invitations, sign up with gift registries, etc. |
STEP 13
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Plan your honeymoon!! |
