Most couples enjoy planning their wedding. However, it can also be the most overwhelming part because there is a lot to do within a short period. For instance, you must find a good venue, buy the bridal gown, dispatch the invitations, and shop for accessories. Most people planning for this day may wonder when to start preparing for all these activities. It can be anywhere between 12 and 18 months before the big day. If you’re confused about this, you’re not alone since many couples go through similar experiences. You don’t have to plan everything at the same time.
In this guide, we walk you through how far in advance you should start planning for your wedding.
Why Make Decisions Early
About 18 months before the wedding, you have now made the big decision that you want it to happen on a particular day. There are some important things you need to focus your efforts on. These include budgeting, making your guest list, booking the venue, and hiring vendors. At this point, you also need to begin exploring the wedding dress options online.
Here are the reasons and benefits of planning your wedding in advance.
Shopping for Your Gown
Around 12 months before the wedding, things will start getting real. It’s now the best time to start shopping for your wedding dress. Timing is everything, and this whole process can take time. Designers require at least six months to make the dress. But it doesn’t end here since it’s nearly impossible to find one that fits well off the rack. It may require some hemming or adjustments.
Wedding Dress Alterations
Most couples may not be aware of the amount of work that goes into ensuring a wedding dress fits the bride. After ordering the gown, your seamstress hems its length because some dresses are too long. Also, sometimes some measurements for your body may not exactly match what was ordered. They also need to fix the straps to ensure a comfortable fit and adjust the train so that it flows elegantly behind. The changes require skill and take time.
Rushing into last-minute amendments can lead to oversight and technical errors, potentially compromising the fit of your gown on your big day. For instance, if the wedding is happening in California, you will find that many elite bridal salons offering professional wedding dress alterations in Orange County require advance bookings to accommodate their high seasonal demand. Most experts recommend beginning the fitting process with your bridal manager at least two to three months before the ceremony. This ensures there is ample time for the meticulous craftsmanship required to achieve a flawless and beautiful outcome.
Locking Everything Together
As your wedding dress is being adjusted, there should be continuous planning and scheduling of other activities. About six months before the wedding, start ordering invitations. Depending on your budget, start booking transportation for the guests, make reservations for your rehearsal dinner, and have the wedding bands ready. Plan for your makeup as well as hair trials.
Finalizing the Wedding Hosting and Decor
About four months before the wedding, things get a little busy. It’s a time to try on your wedding dress and order shoes, belts, and other accessories. You also need to finalize the menu with the caterer. Order the cake, plan for music, guest speakers, photography, and book flights for your honeymoon destination.
About two months before the wedding, send invitations by mail, purchase favors, and obtain a license. Check with the vendors and confirm everything is as planned. One month to the wedding is the final home stretch. It’s more like doing one last walkthrough.
Also, track RSVPs, maintain a seating arrangement chart, and ensure the vows are ready. Now pack for your honeymoon and confirm if the hotels have been booked. One week to the big day, ensure your caterer has the exact number of guests.
Conclusion
Planning for your wedding should start at least 18 months in advance. This ensures you make wise choices while avoiding the stress that comes with it. Order the wedding dress at least 9 months before the wedding to give the seamstress time to make necessary adjustments. A well-fitted gown will give you confidence as you walk down the aisle, dance, and have fun.
