DE VASCO’S DAUGHTERS’ WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE:
1. Enjoy every minute. 2. Start the three big conversations right away:
BUDGET It’s important to sit down and discuss what the most important items are for both persons. There are so many unrealistic wedding budgeting pie charts that don’t take everything into account. Stationery, linens, and decor are often forgotten, and budgets become unrealistic. If a wedding planner is to be used, that should be at least 10 percent of the entire budget for the event. It’s important to discuss who will be contributing to the wedding. Will either set of parents or grandparents be helping? This can be an uncomfortable conversation, but it’s important to enter into budget planning with realistic expectations. GUESTLIST First and foremost, the couple should never feel like they need to invite everyone in their life. It’s important to consider who will still be in their life 10-20 years down the road. There should be multiple lists made: An A-list of must have, no questions asked guests, a B-list of those who you would love to invite but less sure of, and then the C-list of distant relatives, coworkers, and those from out of town whom you haven’t seen in quite some time. LOCATION/VENUE It is important to do research on the venue and the inclusive costs attached before getting your heart set on a location that you might not be able to afford. 3. Ask each other questions, don’t just assume the answers. Make individual top-10 lists, then come together to create one list of the most important things. How important is the food choice? Do you want live music or a DJ? Full hosted bar versus a cash bar? Are flowers important? How elaborate do you want the design to be for your wedding? 4. Stick to your budget. 5. Hire a wedding planner as soon as possible. A planner will know the important questions to ask, understand the process inside and out, and know the vendors. While it’s an investment, initially, a wedding planner can save you money and time, because they can advise ways that costs can be cut and budgets be made more efficient. 6. Don’t spend every minute planning; live your life. This is where a planner and designer can save you time by handling the details. 7 . Communication is key — with everyone: your partner, family, friends, vendors, and planner. 8. Listen to the experts. Ask your vendors and planner anything. No question is too silly. 9. Be present in the moments during the planning and at your wedding. 10. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Not everything will go according to plan.
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