How to Enjoy Planning a Wedding
Published May 2023
Decorations, dresses, guests, flowers, honeymoon, the to-do list goes on and on and on. UK couples spent an average of £18,400 per wedding in 2022, an increase of £1,100 from 2021. (Hitched). With so much to do, plus the added financial pressure, many see wedding planning as an immensely stressful time. But, this could actually be one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences of your life!
The Banking Hall team, including our own dedicated Wedding Planner, has experience hosting all sorts of weddings. Small gatherings, huge parties, unique themes, we've seen it all. Here are our seven steps to help you enjoy planning your wedding.
1. Choose a realistic budget and stick to it
This is the first and most important step. In 2022, over 47% of couples went over their budget (Hitched). It may seem worth it in the moment, but the reality is you will need to pay the bills. Stretching your budget will cause extra stress and anxiety.
Before you make any other decisions, determine how much you can spend. Consider where this money is coming from: savings, family, loans, etc. You may choose to split your total budget into categories. For example, an individual budget for food, drinks, suits, entertainment, etc.
You may feel limited by a strict budget. This doesn't have to be a negative thing. By limiting your options, you can actually free yourself from decision fatigue.
2. Write your guest list
The number of guests you invite will depend on your budget. Some engaged couples determine a price per head before beginning to write their lists. At this stage, you can also consider who should attend the ceremony, the wedding breakfast, and the evening reception.
At The Angel and Banking Hall, the average number of guests in 2022 was 59. Many people feel pressured to invite as many people as they can, but it is important to remember that this is your day. It's okay to be picky!
3. Find your venue and set a date
Once you know what you can afford and how many guests you're inviting, you can begin searching for the perfect place. It helps to know any colour schemes or themes you want to include.
We recommend working with the venue staff to choose a date. That way you won't be disappointed when you go to book a space and find it is not available on your chosen date. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to plan everything else.
With the venue deposit paid and the date set in stone, you can begin to look at the details.
4. Choose your vendors
Here is a brief list of the vendors you may need.
- Caterer
- Florist
- Photographer
- Videographer
- DJ
- Band
- Wedding Planner
- Registrar
- Hairstylist
- Makeup Artist
- Transportation
- Baker
- Table and Chair Linens
- Lighting and Sound Equipment
It is completely up to you which, if any, of the above you choose to include in your wedding. As wedding vendors get booked up fast, especially in popular seasons, be sure to book these as far in advance as possible.
5. Send the invitations
You may choose to begin with a save-the-date or jump straight to a final invitation. Whether you use professional designers or make them yourselves, try to include as much useful information as possible. Guests will need to know the dress code, parking information, how to RSVP, etc.
We recommend asking your guests if they have any dietary requirements or allergies too. Pass this information on to your caterers as soon as possible.
6. Go shopping
Now you know your budget, your colour scheme or theme, and who's coming, you can begin the search for the dream dresses and suits.
Be sure to bring your wedding party with you! They can offer some valuable opinions and help you choose the right attire for the soon-to-be newlyweds and the wider wedding party.
7. Zoom into the finer details
With your venue and vendors booked, invitations sent, and attire sorted, you should be feeling pretty prepared. By getting the big items out of the way, you are free to take your time on the little things.
Now is the time to look at vows, ceremony entry and exit music, the first dance, and the seating chart. Remember your budget!
Once all seven steps are complete, you can rest easy and begin to dream about your honeymoon and future wedded bliss.
We wish you a very happy wedding planning process. If you need any help, The Banking Hall team are available. Please contact us for help or to enquire about hosting your wedding here.