Plan a Wedding in 5 Simple Steps
Hello, South Georgia brides! You have most likely been dreaming of your wedding day since you were little. I know I bought bridal magazines when I was in my teens. As a wedding venue owner, I am here to share some sound wedding planning advice with you. Especially if you have a modest budget. We want you to have the wedding of your dreams without all the stress.
1. Set a Realistic Wedding Budget
The first step to planning your big day is deciding how much you’re willing and able to spend. Setting a solid budget will guide every other part of your planning process, from the size of your guest list to the types of vendors you can hire.
Be sure to allocate funds for each category, including the venue, food, attire, flowers, photography, bar service, entertainment, tips etc. Having a clear understanding of your financial boundaries will make it easier to prioritize what's most important.
2. Write Your Guest List Based on Your Budget
Once you have your budget, create your guest list. This is one of the biggest factors that will affect your expenses. If you are working with a limited budget, it’s okay to keep your guest count small. You don’t need to invite everyone you know.
Focus on the people who are closest to you, and who you genuinely want to share this special moment with. A smaller, more intimate celebration can be just as special (if not more so) than a large-scale event.
3. Choose Your Venue
Now that you know your budget and your guest count, it’s time to choose your venue. Keep in mind that popular wedding venues can book up months, if not years in advance.
If your wedding date is flexible, consider selecting two or three potential dates. Having options will make it easier to secure a venue that aligns with your budget and vision.
Pro-Tip: Ask venues if they offer discounts for off-season or weekday weddings. This can be a great way to get your dream venue at a lower cost.
4. Pick Your Date
Decide on a wedding date as soon as possible. If your first choice isn’t available, your backup dates can save you the hassle of starting over.
When choosing a date, also consider other factors like weather, guest availability, and travel accommodation, especially if you’re expecting out-of-town attendees.
5. Choose Your Vendors
Your vendors will play a huge role in making your wedding day as seamless and memorable as possible. Here’s what to prioritize when booking them:
Photographer: Photographers tend to book quickly, so secure yours early. Look at galleries to make sure their style aligns with your vision.
Caterer: Your guests will remember the food, good or bad! Take time to review menus, taste samples, and ensure everything fits your budget.
DJ: The right DJ can truly make or break your reception. Don’t rush this decision, pick someone who knows how to read the room and keep the energy alive all night long.
Pro-Tip: Some DJs even come with live drummers, adding an exciting element that combines the feel of a live band with the tracks you love. Consider asking about this when meeting with potential DJs.
Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it down into these five simple steps, you'll stay organized, stick to your budget, and plan an occasion to remember.
Once the big day arrives, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment knowing you’ve prepared for it thoughtfully. And remember, this day is about celebrating the love you share, no matter the size or scale of the event.
What step are you most excited about? Share it in the comments or reach out for more tips, we'd love to help make your wedding unforgettable!
Newly engaged and dreaming big? The Glade Venue is ready to be part of your story. We can’t wait to meet you!
For more tips on planning your dream Georgia or Tallahassee wedding, stay tuned to our blog for expert advice and inspiration.
You can find us on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok by searching @thegladevenue.
The Glade Venue is a locally owned wedding venue just 35 minutes north of Tallahassee, under an hour from many South Georgia towns, and just 50 miles from the Alabama line.
We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
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