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Weddings are very very confusing! Things get tied up and lost in translation. So to make things easier, always start from the beginning. For example, start with a budget. This way things don’t get overboard and walk through the rest of your requirements easily. Quickly take a look at these best wedding planning apps, if you are planning an awesome wedding.
Budget: Start by determining an overall budget. You can then prioritise the important things by breaking down the budget and allocating funds for each necessity. The numbers will vary depending on the market, hence it comes in handy if all purchases are tracked. You can have an ongoing budget spreadsheet and adjust numbers as you go.
Guest List: Depending on the budget and the venue, you would probably have to invite selected people. Start by inviting your close family and friends and if room permits, extend the invitation to more.
Venue & Rental Items: Make sure you don’t settle for a venue, it is your big day! While you are at the venue, also book furniture and other rental items. Get extra chairs, carpets, dance floor or the shamiana, lights, sound systems, everything that is needed!
Caterer: Make a list of all the desired dishes and cross-check with your caterer. Your caterer is most likely to have a catering package that fits your guest list and food likings. Remember to know all of your options in your price range.
Vendors: The vendors you need to get on a call with are your florist, photographer and videographer, DJ or musicians, light and sound technicians, transportation for newlyweds, and vendors organizing the gift tokens. Finalize all the required details and advance payments well in advance.
Jewellery: If you are planning for a ‘big fat Indian wedding’, then jewellery shopping is a must. Jewellery is a lifetime investment, so one must be smart when buying.
Outfits, Hair & Makeup: Your wedding lehenga, saree or dress is not the only outfit you would be needing. You need outfits for the haldi ceremony, reception and not to forget your bridesmaids’ outfits, family outfits and grooms! Have your tailor complete the fittings well in advance. You must also hire your hair and makeup team before the wedding month.
Cards: Today, you can opt for e-cards or physical cards. Whichever is most convenient. But if you are planning a wedding on a budget, an e-card works just as fine! You save on paper and money. Remember to check for typos and spelling errors!
Officiant: Whether you are getting married in a house of worship or not, you need a person to help you make it official. And finding an officiant is harder than you think. You need to find a priest who is available on the date, time and location of your wedding.
Final Walk-Through: The final walk-through is checking if everything is in place. Visit the caterers, sound and light technicians, florists, tailors and venue decorations. It is your day after all, and you cross-checking on everything helps soothe the anxiety of the big day.
THE CHANNEL 46