Page 94 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2023

ROMANCE & WEDDING
Wedding
YOU’RE ENGAGED! FIRST THINGS FIRST...
Tell your friends and family all about it and plan an engagement party.
Engagement pictures, anyone?
Get on Pinterest (as if you haven’t already) and start compiling things you like. You can also purchase a planning binder to collect all of your favorite ideas.
Work out a budget.
Create your wedding website.
Look into wedding planners and decide if you’ll want some extra help on the big day or leading up to it.
Decide on your wedding date– select a few days just in case your number one choice isn’t available.
Choose a venue and book your wedding and reception locations.
Begin creating a rough guest list and collecting addresses. The earlier you get started, the easier it will be!
Choose your wedding party.
Start the wedding dress shopping process. Consider attending some local bridal shows to get more ideas and meet some local vendors.
Decide on your wedding theme and colors. Book your photographer or videographer. Start looking into honeymoon options.
Start registering for gifts with your hubby- to-be. Don’t forget to list these on your wedding website!
Order your wedding gown– this can take a few months, so be sure to purchase your dress with plenty of time to spare. Purchase your accessories and undergarments.
Start shopping for bridesmaid dresses. Select an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony.
Book ceremony musicians, wedding band or DJ.
Hire a caterer and florist.
Don’t forget the cake! Make appointments for a few cake tastings and place your wedding cake order. If live flowers will be
checklist
used on the cake, be sure to let both the baker and the florist know in advance. Book hair and makeup for the wedding day. Arrange hotel room blocks and transportation for your guests if necessary. Finalize your guest list and finish collecting addresses.
Buy or rent ceremony and reception decorations.
Order your save the dates, invitations and thank-you cards.
Send out save the dates.
Select attire for groom and groomsmen. If renting, be sure to have everyone fitted for the correct size.
Purchase wedding rings.
Organize dress fittings.
Schedule hair and makeup trials.
Purchase wedding favors.
Confirm your honeymoon plans and ensure you have all necessary travel documents including passports and visas.
Reserve a room for your wedding night if you’ll be leaving the next day.
Book your rehearsal dinner site.
Print out ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner directions for out-of-town guests. Compile a list of area information and things to do for out-of-town guests. This information and other local treats can also be left for your guests at their hotels in a wedding welcome bag.
Find out what your state’s requirements are for obtaining a marriage license and get blood tests done, if required.
Meet with your caterer to discuss the menu and your bar/liquor needs. Some venues may also have their own requirements for bartenders or security staff.
Meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony details, wording and wedding vows.
Select wedding readings.
Select music for the ceremony and reception.
4-6
MONTHS BEFORE
6-9
MONTHS BEFORE
2-4
MONTHS BEFORE
94 | February 2023
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Congratulations,