Monday Coffee: Diving In

For the many of you who were engaged over the holidays; Congratulations!
In our first Monday Coffee post of the New Year, we wanted to lend a few tips for those without a planning team to make the jump-start process a little easier. We know that getting started can be a whirlwind of tulle and chiffon, roses, and wedding cake, so take a step back and get organized, starting with the most pressing items first.

1. Pick a date. If you must have a 2010 wedding, keep in mind that many venues book up over a year out so stay flexible.

2. Create a rough guest list so you'll be able to start piecing together your budget and venue. Think about whether you want an intimate, family-style wedding or a lavish 300 guest affair. This will help you to tailor your guest list. A rule of thumb from Nick to help keep your list down: if you wouldn't treat a guest to dinner or have them to your own home, do not feel obligated to invite them.

3. Find your locale, which goes hand-in-hand with the number of guests (and of course, your date). Think about the style and ambiance you want to show off. Is it an ultra-chic loft space? A backyard wedding? A coastal soiree you envision?

4. Book it and breathe! You've accomplished a lot! Take a step back and prioritize what's next. Think about the wedding artists you'll need to book and prioritize who is most important (meaning what service/vendor you're willing to spend what on) and set up a meeting. Create a to-do list month-by-month and check in with yourself (and your fiance) to keep on track.

For those brides and grooms to-be in the thick of planning: it's a great idea for those without planners to touch base with all of your wedding vendors if there's been a break in communication due to the holiday frenzy. Send a friendly email checking in and make sure you're all still on the same page. Review your timeline and see what's next on the docket and prioritize. What needs to be done the didn't get finished in 2009? Did those save the date cards get addressed and mailed? Pick up the pieces from the pre-holiday rush and take a deep breath. Happy Planning! Aleah

Photo by Kate McElwee