Hello again!!! We are down to 11 months for our hypothetical wedding and we have some fun and exciting things to do this month. I am sure you are beginning to see things you like and if you’re stalking theknot.com and Pinterest I am sure you are finding some wonderful and creative ideas for your wedding.
Let’s begin with the first thing on the list: scout reception sites. With the Internet it is quite easy to see what is out there, and the knot.com has a great list of local venues that makes it easy to find hidden gems. Our blog reviews many local venues for you so you can see prices, regulations, and interesting facts about some great Michigan venues. Also since we do many weddings each year, you can check out all of our real wedding posts to see weddings that take place at some of the great hot spots.
The Knot has a section for real weddings as well and it’s nice to see what a place looks like during a wedding. If you have a chance to see what it will look like with decor you can get a better idea of what your room is going to look like on your wedding day. A lot of these great venues do book up early so if you’re set on a specific date, and you find your dream reception site, book it as soon as you know it’s the one!!
We need to start interviewing caterers. I have noticed when we plan our weddings that a lot of venues may have a list of caterers that you can choose from or they may have one that you have to choose from. But if you’re planning a backyard wedding or looking for a unique venue that doesn’t come with a caterer then it’s time for some tastings!!
Finding an officiant if you don’t belong to a church is the next thing up to do. Always ask for referrals, from friends, family and your wedding planner. If you don’t want a religious ceremony, most officiants have different ceremonies that you can read from as well as the option to customize to create the perfect and most comfortable ceremony on your wedding day. There is also the opportunity to have a close friend or relative get ordained (check the legality here with your county!) so they can have a special role in your day.
Now that some major details are done, have an engagement party!!!! This can be as casual or as formal as you like. Depending on your budget you can have one at your house, your favorite restaurant, club, bar – anywhere that means something special to you both. And since you also should be picking out your bridal party this month it would be a great time to ask those people at the party.
Brace yourself……. It’s time to start the guest list. This was one task that was so stressful for me, because I wanted to invite everyone!!! If you’re on a tight budget this is going to be a major step in the wedding process for you because the smaller your guest count, the less you will spend on your wedding. So this may take awhile to get your list, and your parents list down to the number that is economically acceptable for you and your budget.
Happy planning!
Written by Melanie King – TwoFoot Creative, Ann Arbor