Planning your nuptials can be one of the most stressful parts of a couple’s relationship, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve gathered some top tips from the wedding sphere that will save you time and money so you can focus on enjoying tying the knot.
Know Your Guest List
The first thing you should start to do in your planning process is narrowing down your guest list. Your ceremony headcount will dictate everything from venue space to budget per head on food. Do you plan on having a big wedding with extended family and friends or a more intimate gathering with only those closest to you? Also, will you allow for +1’s or are your invites exclusive? These vital questions will have a significant impact on your plans, so be sure to talk it over and be confident in your decisions.
Be Flexible
One of the surest ways to save money on your wedding is to be flexible with your dates. If you don’t have specific dreams of a summer wedding on the beach or a winter wonderland backdrop, consider choosing the months of January, March, and April which are relatively cheaper times to say I do.
Do Your Research
The venue of your wedding is the canvas for your big day. By doing extensive research, not only will you be able to narrow your list down to your top few venues, but you’ll also uncover common questions and discover venue features that you may not have thought of before.
Be Prepared
Along with researching the perfect venue, be sure to inquire about what backup options there are in case of bad weather. Choosing a great venue with a luxurious outdoor space won’t do you any good if there are rainstorms on the day of your wedding. It’s best to go with a spot that offers elegant solutions in case of these sorts of situations.
Offer Convenience
If you have a lot of out-of-town guests, you might consider booking a full-service resort so that they have all the amenities they need during their stay. This will ensure that your guests are easily taken care of and comfortable during your special day.
Get a Deal
If you plan right, you might even be able to score a venue that offers special packaging for not only your wedding but your honeymoon as well! At Chicago’s Eaglewood Resort & Spa, for example, they offer a free honeymoon at any Benchmark Resort or Hotel destination when you choose their location as your venue. That’s over 40 domestic and international locations to choose from!
