Want to plan your wedding.? Here are some hints that will hopefully keep on track

Decide where you want to get married. Is it going to be a civil ceremony in a registry office, a civil ceremony at a licensed hotel, or following tradition in your place of worship? Depending upon your circumstances some venues may not be suitable so have a good look first and discuss your ideas with your partner.

Decide when you want the wedding to take place. Remember that there are religious seasons that will affect this decision, and these should be discussed with your partner as well. Have you a special date you want to use? A beloved relatives birthday for instance, or are there dates to avoid for the opposite reason? Finally don't forget the sporting calendar, as a special event could decimate your r.s.v.p's.

Budget. It is very sound advice to discuss this first. By working out, and sticking to your budget, you will prevent running short at the last minute. If you have extra money arrive before the event it is easy to upgrade. Break down every section of this schedule and put a price on it.

Book your reception. Have you already got a place in mind? In any case try and see your reception venue with fresh eyes. Look at it from the point of view of a bride with a lovely long dress, but the weather is terrible. Where will those lovely portraits and groups be taken then? Ask to see wedding photographs taken at the venue. All photographers love to supply these free to the hotels as it is effective advertising for them, but if the hotel can't show any there may be a good reason.

Prepare your guest list
Select who is going to be bridesmaids, best man and ushers.
Look for your wedding attire
Look for your attendant's clothing
Book your preferred photographer and video
Arrange your wedding transport
Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies. He is an invaluable aid to the smooth running of your wedding day. With a toastmaster, you can relax and forget about organising the reception events yourself.
Musicians.
You will have started to pay out deposits, and wedding insurance will protect you.

SIX MONTHS TO GO

Honeymoon.
Flowers
Wedding cake
Order Wedding Invitations
Discuss hymns and music with your minister, and prepare your order of service.

FOUR MONTHS TO GO

Send out invitations
Gift list
Order the Order of Service sheets with your stationer

THREE MONTHS TO GO

Check that your banns or licence applications are in
Wedding rings
Confirm your honeymoon
Order last minute stationery such as place cards, napkins
Gifts for your attendants
Start your beauty routine with your beauty consultant

ONE MONTH TO GO

Confirm your guest list from the invitation replies (duplicate copy for the reception to prepare the table plan) and start filling out the place cards
Arrange the final fitting(s) for dresses
Confirm the details with all your wedding service suppliers
Notify your bank or building society, and others of the pending change in your name

TWO WEEKS TO GO

Relax - have your stag and hen parties. No you won't be called a coward for having them early. These are important parties, and there may be some friends and family members who are unable to attend your wedding day that can make it to these events. It is well worth inviting them

ONE WEEK TO GO

Pack your honeymoon bags and hide them well
Ceremony rehearsal
Collect hired outfits
Take delivery of your wedding cake, or arrange safe delivery to the reception
See your beauty consultant, have a manicure and massage

ON THE DAY

Start with an early bath. Give yourself plenty of time. Have a healthy breakfast
Hair and make-up
Take delivery of Flowers
Arrange for your luggage (and your car) to be taken to the hotel by a trusted friend or relative
Get to the ceremony on time

• Local Wedding Planning Specialists:

Formal Affairs, Wedding planners , organisers & stationers
41 Bath Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2  Tel: 01534 618952 Fax: 01534 615856

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