What Should You Do 10 Months Before Wedding? Essential Planning Tips for a Smooth Journey

Getting ready for your wedding can be exciting and a bit overwhelming. Ten months before your big day is the perfect time to set a date, determine your budget, and start creating your wedding planning timeline. These early steps help lay the foundation for everything else to come.

A couple choosing wedding invitations and discussing color options with a stationery designer

During this time, consider making a wedding checklist to keep track of important tasks.

You’ll want to think about the kind of venue you envision and gather inspiration for your decor. Don’t forget to discuss your ideas with your partner to ensure you’re both on the same page.

As you start making these plans, remember to relax and enjoy the process. With a solid plan in place ten months out, you’re already taking significant steps toward a smooth and memorable celebration.

Establishing Your Wedding Vision and Priorities

YouTube video

Creating your wedding vision is an exciting first step. This process helps you set priorities, which can guide your decisions. It’s essential to clarify what you want before diving into planning details.

Choose Your Ideal Wedding Theme

Your wedding theme sets the tone for the entire event. Consider what reflects your personality and relationship.

Think about colors, styles, and settings you love. Look at ideas online, like rustic, classic, or destination themes.

Once you have an idea, gather inspiration images. Create a mood board with colors, flowers, and decor that fit your theme. Discuss this with your partner to make sure you’re both on the same page.

Having a clear theme will help you choose other details later, making the process smoother.

Create a Preliminary Guest List

Next, focus on your guest count. This step is crucial as it influences many other planning areas like venue size and budget.

Start by listing family, friends, and anyone else important to you. Use a spreadsheet to keep track of names, addresses, and RSVP statuses. Don’t forget to discuss with your partner about who they want to invite.

See also  Do Wedding Invitations Need a Stamp? What You Should Know Before Sending

A preliminary guest list helps you visualize the size of your wedding and choose the right venue options.

Select a Date and Venue

Choosing a date is one of the most significant steps. Think about your preferences, like season and availability of family.

Once you have a date, start researching potential wedding venues.

Look for locations that fit your theme and can accommodate your guest count comfortably. Some venues offer unique packages or features, so explore your options.

Try to visit venues in person when possible. Doing this can help you imagine how your wedding day will unfold.

By selecting a date and venue early, you can easily send out your save the dates! This also helps everyone mark their calendars for your special day.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

A couple sits at a table with a stack of bills and a notebook, discussing their finances and making plans for their upcoming wedding

At this stage in your wedding planning, establishing a clear budget and considering financial protections are important steps. A well-thought-out budget will help you manage costs effectively, while wedding insurance can provide peace of mind.

Outline Your Wedding Budget

Start by listing all potential wedding expenses. This includes venue fees, catering, photography, attire, and more.

Consider using a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track your costs.

Key expenses to include:

  • Venue rental
  • Food and drinks
  • Flowers and decorations
  • Photography and videography
  • Attire for you and your partner
  • Invitations and save the date cards

Once you have estimates for each category, add them up to see the total costs. This will help you balance your budget and adjust where necessary. If your total exceeds your expectations, consider which areas you can cut back on.

Consider Wedding Insurance

Wedding insurance is a smart way to protect your investment. This type of insurance can cover unexpected situations like cancellations, venue issues, or damage to your attire.

Look into different policies and choose one that suits your needs.

Common coverage options include:

  • Cancellation due to a serious illness
  • Vendor no-shows
  • Liability coverage for accidents
See also  Is 300 People Too Many for a Wedding? Exploring Guest List Considerations

While insurance may feel like an extra expense, it gives you peace of mind. Knowing you’re covered helps you focus more on the exciting parts of planning.

Key Vendors and Essentials

YouTube video

Ten months before your wedding is the perfect time to secure key vendors and start shopping for essentials. You’ll want to focus on selecting trusted professionals and choosing your dream attire.

Book Essential Vendors

Now is the time to book your essential vendors to ensure availability. Start with your wedding venue and caterer, as these often fill up the fastest.

Research local options, read reviews, and schedule tastings to find the perfect match for your style and budget.

Don’t forget to book your wedding photographer early. Review portfolios to find one whose style resonates with you. Ensure you meet in person to discuss your vision and establish a connection.

Make a checklist of vendors needed, including:

  • Venue
  • Caterer
  • Wedding photographer
  • Florist

Prioritize booking these vendors soon to secure your preferred dates!

Taste and Choose Your Wedding Cake

Selecting your wedding cake is a fun and delicious task. Begin by researching local bakers known for their wedding cakes.

Schedule tastings to experience different flavors and designs firsthand.

Keep in mind any dietary needs your guests may have, like gluten-free or vegan options. Discuss your vision, including size and style, with your chosen baker.

Consider incorporating personal touches, like flavors that mean something to you as a couple. A great cake not only looks good but also tastes incredible!

Begin Wedding Dress and Attire Shopping

It’s time to start your search for the perfect wedding gown.

Make a list of styles you love, whether it’s classic, bohemian, or modern.

Visit bridal shops to try on different gowns. Bring along someone whose opinion you trust. It’s important that you feel comfortable discussing different options.

Don’t forget about your wedding shoes and accessories. Think about how they match your gown and comfort for the day.

Additionally, start thinking about what your bridesmaids will wear. Discuss colors and styles to ensure they complement your vision. Early planning helps keep stress low as the day approaches!

See also  Who Is Usually Invited to a Destination Wedding? Understanding Your Guest List Options

Personal Touches and Guest Experience

YouTube video

Creating a memorable experience for your guests starts with thoughtful planning. This includes custom invitations, fun events leading up to the big day, and comfortable accommodations. Here’s how to make it all come together.

Design Your Wedding Invitations

Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests get of your big day. Make them special!

Choose a design that reflects your personality and wedding theme.

Include key details like date, location, and RSVP information. Consider using a wedding registry link on the invite to guide guests on gift options. It’s helpful and shows appreciation for their contributions.

Don’t forget to send invitations at least 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding. This gives everyone enough time to RSVP and plan their travel.

Plan the Rehearsal Dinner and Welcome Party

The rehearsal dinner is a perfect way to kick off the wedding celebrations.

Choose a location that’s convenient for guests, allowing them to relax and enjoy themselves. This could be a restaurant, a friend’s house, or even a fun outdoor picnic.

You can also host a welcome party for guests arriving early.

It’s a great opportunity to mingle and include personal touches, like custom party favors. Think about fun activities or games that can break the ice.

Including everyone in these events helps set a friendly tone for the wedding.

Organize Accommodations for Guests

You want your guests to feel comfortable during their stay. Start by researching hotel options near your venue.

Booking a block of rooms ensures that guests have a convenient place to stay.

Communicate the accommodation options clearly in your invitations or wedding website. Include information about any group discounts you secured.

Also, provide details about transportation from hotels to wedding venues.

Consider creating a list of local attractions to help guests enjoy their time in your area. This shows that you care about their experience beyond the wedding day.