First Things First
A simplified guide for how to start
planning your wedding
All photography by The Shutter Owl unless noted otherwise
You’ve done it! You are (finally?) engaged! Hurray!!! Let’s take a moment to celebrate and enjoy this special time before jumping into full-blown planning.
The all important dress, color palette, and décor details can be so fun to think about, but if you want a smooth, stress-free and enjoyable wedding planning journey, let’s take care of business first.
When you are ready, these are the decisions you need to make first when planning your wedding!
FIRST STEP!
Let's talk about setting a budget for your wedding, specifically for everything except attire. It's important to have an estimated overall budget in mind. This will really help you narrow down your venue budget, which is typically your largest expense.
The Shutter Owl
SECOND STEP
Set an estimated number of guests for your reception. You will likely be able to invite more, but generally decide the “size” wedding you would like to have. Once you have settled on a “concept” number, begin to build your guest list. You may discover your list to be much longer or shorter than expected, so you may decide it be necessary to either trim the list or adjust your expectations on size.
Completing this step assists you in finding suitable venue options!
STEP THREE
Decide the look and feel you want for your wedding! Think classic, romantic, rustic, garden, industrial… so many choices :) Click the link below to be directed to a helpful blog to jumpstart your vision.
STEP FOUR
Decide when you would like to have your wedding. When planning your big day, it's important to choose the perfect season, month, and year for your wedding. This will depend on so many factors, like your preferred weather, availability of venues, and even sentimental reasons. So take your time, discuss with your partner, and pick a range of dates that feels just right for both of you. Maintaining some flexibility on date allows you more options as venues tend to book quickly.
STEP FIVE
Now, you are ready to begin researching venues. Have your preferred date, budget, number of people and vision in hand as you narrow down your options. Once you’ve done your online research, schedule a few tours.
STEP SIX
6. Once you’ve chosen your venue, lock in your date! Complete the booking process and celebrate completing the first steps to planning your wedding!
Happy Planning!
With Love,
Melanie
If you’re looking for a Fayetteville, NC wedding venue near you, look no further! This naturally serene space is a short 30 minute drive from north Charlotte, NC. Want to explore more?
At a Glance
3721 Little Buffalo Creek Road, Mount Pleasant, NC, 28124
Set on 427 acres
Capacity 160