You’re a new bride and the big question is, should you get married in 2023 or 2024? We’re just about to embark on the fall 2023 wedding season. So, we get that planning a wedding for what’s left in 2023 may cause a little bit of panic. Maybe you want a longer timeline and are thinking of planning your nuptials for 2024. Whether you want to plan your wedding for 2023 or 2024, Elegant Affairs is here for you. Choosing your date is ultimately up to you – and we’re here for it. But, today we’re going to talk about embarking on your planning journey. So, if you’re a potential 2024 bride or groom – this one's for you. (And hey, don’t think we’ve forgotten about our 2023 brides – whether you’ve set the date or want to set a date – chat with a member of our Elegant Affairs team.)
STEP 1: SAY YES TO A PLANNER AND VENUE
Alright, so if you’re a 2024 bride, you’ve got some time to work with. If you’re newly engaged, our first step to planning your wedding is to book your wedding planner. Okay - yes, we know - we work in the industry but we cannot stress enough the importance of hiring a wedding planner. If you’re on the fence, set up a consultation to discuss your goals for your wedding day and how a wedding planner can help you. Planners are your right hand gal(s) or guy(s). They are with you every step of the planning and right by your side on your wedding day. Once you’ve booked, or atleast met with a planner it’s time to book your venue. Narrow down a few dates that fit within your calendar. It’s vital to book your venue first, because your venue will speak towards your future design decisions. So, create that budget, find a venue that fits within your budget. As you select your venue, be sure you find one that fits your potential guest list. Your venue size will determine how many people can celebrate your wedding day.
STEP 2: FIND & BOOK YOUR CATERER & PHOTOGRAPHER
After you’ve selected and booked your planner and venue, it’s vital to start looking for your caterer. Talk to your wedding planner, as they have a network of preferred vendors that you can choose. You also want to discuss with your venue if they have required or preferred caterers. Don’t be afraid to set up tastings, ask for seasonal menus, and research all the prices. You want to make sure that you’ve selected a caterer that not only fits your tastes, but your budget too. You will spend a large chunk of your wedding budget on your caterer, so take you time with selecting the right one. After you’ve selected your caterer, the last large piece of your budget is your photographer. We cannot stress this enough – hire a professional and look at their portfolio. Stay off of facebook groups, don’t ask a family friend. One of the biggest regrets couples have is not spending their money on the right photographer. Decide what vision you have for your photos and any aesthetic you may have. Read reviews, stalk their socials and find a photographer that fits your vision and your aesthetic before you book. The last thing we want to see is clients who are unhappy with their photos.
STEP 3: BOOK YOUR ENTERTAINMENT
Whether you want a live band or a DJ you need some sort of entertainment. Your wedding is truly a celebration. Think carefully about your guest list and what kind of entertainment you’ll want at your ceremony and reception. Meet with various entertainers or DJs and discuss your wants and needs. Don’t forget to ask about uplighting, what is included, and confirm that they are available for your wedding date. Read their reviews and ensure that the quality of their service fits within your budget and your needs.
STEP 4: FINALLY, YOU CAN SAY YES TO YOUR DRESS
You’ve selected your venue, which will set your vision for your nuptials. It’s now time to say yes, to your dress. Our biggest advice is stay within your budget, and start searching 6-8 months out from your wedding day. A Lot of boutiques or designers can take a few months to get your wedding dress in your hands. And don’t forget about alterations. You’ll need to allot yourself plenty of time to alter your dress, once, twice, maybe even three times. Don’t forget to find the right undergarments prior to your alterations. And hold off on buying any accessories until after you find your dress. Unless there is a piece of jewelry, wait until you find your dress.
STEP 5: MAKE YOUR VISION COME TO LIFE
It’s time to get your hands dirty with making your wedding vision come to life. Now, you can book all of the additional vendors you may need. This includes rentals, florists, baker for your wedding cake, videographers, invitation companies etc. Choosing the right wedding vendors are essential to bringing your wedding day to life. But, don’t go crazy and stay within your budget. Focus on the necessities first, such as chair and linen rentals. Find a florist that can bring your wedding florals to life and don’t over commit yourself if you’re a DIY bride.
STEP 6: BOOK SMALLER VENDORS
Once all the essential vendors are booked for your wedding day and contracts have been signed, it’s time to see if there is any wiggle room in your budget for extra vendor add ons. This includes make-up artists, bridal hair stylists, accommodations and transportation. We like to save this for last, because it makes up a small portion of your budget and you don’t have to book months out to secure it.
If you’re a 2024 bride, now is a great time to set up a consultation and get the planning timeline started. We’re here to help you with each step of the way. If you follow our simple guidelines and stick to the process, it will decrease stress and make the process enjoyable. We’re so excited for your wedding planning process and hope we can help you along the way. And if you’re doing it solo, follow our six steps and we can ensure you that your wedding planning timeline will be off to a smooth start.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.