I’ve booked a venue, now what?
Probably the most common question I see asked on Social Media! If only there was someone who could help with that! Well.…. Look no further.. Hopefully the below gives you some ideas on your next step!
Wedding Photographer. If you are reading this on my website, then you must have considered a wedding photographer! This is a great next step after booking your venue. There are so many photography styles AND photographers! It’s important to find someone that not only do you like their style, but also click with as a person! Your wedding photographer will be a HUGE part of your day, and if you don’t gel, you won’t feel at ease on the day! I specialise in documentary and candid style photography. This means that I will make sure I capture all of those special little moments, from bridal prep all the way through to your first dance. Many photographers leave straight after the first dance, but I like to stay a while longer so I can capture those funky moves being busted out on the dance floor! If you don’t feel comfortable in front of the camera, and posing isn’t for you, then candid can work very well. Of course we’ll get some posed shots, but we’ll make them fun and natural.. I mean, who can’t resist laughing if you’re being asked to whisper your least favourite chore into your spouse’s ear, but in your sexiest voice…….
Top tip; if you are struggling for poses, Pinterest is AMAZING and jam packed full of ideas! Create a mood board and get saving!
2. Registrar or Celebrant. The reason everyone has come together (apart from the free food, drink and a night out) is the marriage itself! If you have booked your venue, id suggest trying to book a registrar or celebrant as soon as possible to make sure you secure your date and time! So what’s the difference you say? Registrar - can legally marry you at your venue, although check that your venue is registered for this. You’ll sign all the papers there on the day.
Celebrant - can not legally marry you, however the ceremony can be completely personalised to you and your fiancé. The legal part would need to be done in a registry office either before or after your special day. As long as it works for you, it doesn’t matter how you do it!
Top tip; the cost of a registrar varies from county to county. Check on your local council website for prices specific to where you are.
3. Save The Dates & Invitations. Time for some STD’s (all you Brooklyn Nine Nine fans out there!)
Realistically, once your venue is booked and you have finalised your guest list, save the dates can be sent out! You can either get your crafty hat on and make your own, or Etsy tends to be a great place to find templates/stunning designs! People tend to book holidays and events in advance, so the more notice you can give your family and friends, the better! Don’t worry if you can’t give a lot of notice, typically save the dates don’t get sent out until 9-12 months before your day and invitations sent 3-6 months before!
If wedding stationary doesn’t fit into your budget, there are so many free websites out there now where you can plan everything in one place and send out RSVP’s, meal choices, the order of the day and so much more. For example - WithJoy is a great place to start!
Top tip; Save the dates should only be sent to guests attending the whole day. It can be confusing for evening guests to receive a save the date and it will avoid any awkward conversations down the line.
4. Wedding Cake. I use the term ‘cake’ loosely! There are soooo many options for a cake if that’s what you are choosing to have! It’s not for everyone! My wife wanted cake, I wanted doughnuts, so we compromised and had a cake on top of a tier of doughnuts! It went down a treat! You could have a dessert table with all kinds of sweet treats or a cheese board if you are more of a savoury person. It’s a great way to express yourselves as a couple. If you have a preferred supplier in mind, it’s a good idea to secure your date early.
Top tip; a lot of cake suppliers will offer sample boxes or tasting sessions. It’s a great pre wedding activity to do with your spouse to be!
5. Entertainment. Are you into live music? Maybe something country or folky? Or do you want a full on DJ Set with a dance floor so you can party like it’s 1999. Magic has always been a big part of my life, so finding a great magician for me was non-negotiable for my wedding day. And he went down an absolute treat with both the adults and children! Take a look at my suppliers page for some suggestions. If you are having a summer wedding, then garden games can be a great way to get your guests mingling and keep them entertained while you are off having your photos taken. There’s also things like photo booths which are becoming more and more popular! Glitter stands, live portraits… the list goes on!
Top tip; if you are having children at your wedding, make up a light little goody bag for them! Small toys, colouring books, Lego (whatever they may like at their age) - will all keep them occupied during the meal and speeches! Amazon is a great place for things like this.
Wedding planning can be soooo overwhelming. Bridebook offers a great free checklist when you sign up and also allows you to search for suppliers. There is also pages like RockMyWedding (which i’m a recommend supplier for) and website such as Hitched. Remember, you don’t need to tick EVERY box, it’s not a challenge lol! Only include things in your day that you both want. You don’t need to get a cigar stand for Uncle Derek and a manicure station for Auntie Karen, it’s your day, so yes… make it ALL ABOUT YOU!
It’s the happiest day of your life. It’s not the day for people pleasing, it’s about being the centre of attention, and everyone looking at you. Make the most of it, as it only happens once!….. Well…. so they say…..
Any questions about your big day that I haven’t answered? Toying with the idea of booking me but unsure what you want? Feel free to drop me a message and we can book in a call to discuss YOUR big special day!