YOUR ENGAGED, Now where to start?

The to-do list:

1) MONEY
Often one of the most difficult parts for the both of you to agree to when planning your wedding is, what to spend money on and how much.

You do need to start the planning process with a approximate budget, as it will set the stage for the rest of the to-do list, and there is plenty to be done.

The most impact that will effect the cost of your wedding are the number of guests you invite and your over all wedding style.

The old-school traditions of who pays for what is no longer the case or norm. Most couple receive very little outside help with cost and often pay for their entire wedding on their own. This requires the couple to take the time and save money to avoid future debt.

The average engagement now lasts 14 months.
The average wedding costs around $28,000.
And weddings for 30 people that cost the same as a wedding for 300—that's where the style comes in when planning your budget!

2) WEDDING STYLE

Once you have determined a budget, now decide how you plan to spend it. The feel of your wedding over all. How exotic the flowers, how big the centerpieces? How formal the linens? Will it be a sit down plated dinner? Stretch hummer limos or horse & buggy?

Your Wedding Style will set the stage for the rest of the wedding planning process.

3) CEREMONY/WEDDING DATE

Yes, the planning of every single detail for your reception, right down to how the napkins will be folded is exciting. But let's stay focused for just a second. "The Ceremony" this is the reason you can wear an amazing gown, have the right to be the most beautiful women in the room and throw a fantastic reception party afterwards. Committing yourself to the person you are in love with. And where will that take place? at the reception site? Park? Place of worship? Booking your ceremony is top on the list. the availability of your chosen date and time to be married will have to be in place prior to selecting a facility for the reception.

4) WEDDING PARTY

Deciding who will have the honor of being apart of your wedding party and informing them is something that should carry a special meaning to the both of you. Letting your bridal party know early on is important. There are extra expenses for the bridal party that other guest will not have to worry about, such as formal attire, and hotel expenses for events such as rehearsal/dinner.

5) REGISTRY

Once the word is out that you are engaged, the gifts will begin to show up on your door step.Registering now will make it less complicated when it is "shower" time.

6) RECEPTION

Now it is time to find that perfect space to celebrate your marriage with family and friends. Your reception will most likely consume approximately 50% of your budget. Some facilities are booked out over a year in advance, so if your heart is set on a specific location inquire early on to be sure to reserve your date.

7) GUEST LIST

You may find that creating a guest list can be challenging. With a limited budget, there will need to be a limited guest list. Meal, drinks, cake, invitation, and favor = cost per person.

8) DRESS

Waiting until the ceremony, reception, and date are in place before purchasing the wedding  dress will be in your best interest. The wedding date may need to be changed if your ceremony or reception is not available. Sometimes this means changing the time of year and season all together. Or you find yourself booking a facility that has a different wedding style than your original intent was. You will want your dress to match you "wedding style" and waiting until certain aspects are in place will allow you to do just that!

9) INVITATIONS

This expense is often overlooked, but stationary and postage will add up when there is a long guest list. You can visit a high end stationary store, or order from a reputable site off line. Often cutting cost when you opt to assemble the invitations your self. Just beware sometimes this is a huge undertaking. The task can be tedious and time consuming so make sure you understand what you are committing to.

....  more for your to-do list (coming soon)