Remembering the Basics of Wedding Planning
After you get engaged and the wedding planning begins, it’s easy to get caught up in everything you have to accomplish to pull together your big day. Setting a budget, making a guest list, venue hunting, booking vendors… the list goes on. However, as you embark on the journey of wedding planning, there are a few basics that are quite often overlooked (especially with all of the noise and advice that’s given to engaged couples).
Over the years, Arturo and I have heard so many different things from our couples about what they wish they had or hadn’t done while planning (or even on the day of!). As I head into my 15th wedding season, I’ve rounded up some of my top basic, yet oh-so-important, ideas to keep in mind for couples who are planning their celebration.
You’re Not Getting Married for Social Media
We live in the 21st Century, I get it! We all love to share our big life events and accomplishments on Instagram. Nonetheless, don’t forget why you’re getting married. Is it to post a pretty picture online? Nope. Is it the start of the rest of your lives together? It sure is! Don’t plan your wedding day around social media or what you see on your social feeds.
Avoid Wedding Trends
Wedding trends are fun, but they also come and go, which means they could become outdated pretty quickly. I always joke about the baby blue cumberbund my dad wore on when my parents got married in the 80s. Was it fashionable at the time? I believe so. Today? Not so much. Your wedding photos will last forever, and I promise you won’t want to cringe at them 5, 10, or 50 years down the road.
Don’t Drink Heavily (Especially Before the Ceremony!)
This is a reminder for the day of, but still important to think about ahead of time! A little toast with your best gals and pals is one thing, but don’t go crazy, especially before you exchange your vows. It’s tacky and also disrespectful to your future spouse. You’re making a lifelong commitment to your partner, and this is Day 1!
Invite Only Who You Want to Celebrate with You
If you don’t want to invite someone, don’t send them an invitation. If you haven’t interacted with them for the past few years, why should they be there on one of the biggest and most important days of your life? Don’t let the stress of inviting an unwanted guest ruin the fun of wedding planning.
This is YOUR Wedding
Politely listen to other’s opinions, but in the end, do what feels right to the two of you. The day should reflect and be a celebration of you and your partner. Don’t forget that this is YOUR wedding, and no one else’s.
There’s plenty to keep in mind while planning your wedding.
What else would you like to see on this list?
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Shaina Lee Photography is a husband and wife photography team serving Connecticut, New York, and beyond. We specialize in timeless, elegant, and romantic weddings while celebrating all couples in love.
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