Salters Events Wedding Planning Guide

Firstly, congratulations on your engagement! Now that you're ready to plan your wedding, things can get overwhelming. But don't worry, Salters Events has over twenty years of experience in bringing couples' dreams to life, and we're here to help you every step of the way. From budgeting to invitations to finding the perfect dress, we've got you covered. Our wedding planning guide is filled with tips and tricks to ensure that your special day is unforgettable!

Have a wedding budget

To ensure a smooth planning process, establishing a clear budget early on is crucial. From décor to drinks, there are many components to consider, and without a firm budget, expenses can quickly spiral out of control. Take some time to consider what aspects of the wedding are most important to you, and where you're willing to cut costs. Would you be content with a dress from a high street store, or is a designer gown a must-have? DIY wedding elements can also be a great way to save on expenses. With countless online resources available, you're sure to find plenty of inspiration and ideas. Prioritizing your checklist and budget allocation will make it easier to decide where to splurge and where to cut back.

How confident would you be with a DIY wedding?

If you're planning a DIY wedding, it's time to think about the people in your life who can lend a helping hand. Perhaps a friend with an eye for decoration, an aunt who bakes delicious cakes, or a brother with a stylish car? Friends and family can be a great resource to cut down your wedding expenses, but keep in mind that hiring professionals can provide peace of mind. Make sure you have complete confidence in anyone who is involved in your DIY wedding. Wedding planning can be stressful enough without worrying about unreliable helpers. Remember this essential tip to ensure your special day is a success.

Choose a wedding date

Are you planning your dream wedding? One of the first things you should decide on is the season you wish to get married in. This decision can impact not only the atmosphere of your special day but also your budget. Popular venues tend to book up years ahead of time, and prices for sought-after summer months can be more expensive.

Another factor to consider is the day of the week you choose to hold your wedding. Opting for a weekday service can save you up to £5000 compared to a Saturday, with Mondays being the most cost-effective. By choosing a weekday, you also increase your chances of booking your preferred vendors, such as bands, make-up artists, and photographers. These professionals are often booked years in advance for weekend dates. However, it's crucial to evaluate all the factors on your wedding planning checklist, not just cost-saving opportunities.

Chose a wedding venue

Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenging task, but it doesn't have to be. Keep these tips in mind when you're starting your search:

Be open to new ideas, even if they differ from your initial vision.

Consider all the elements that you want to incorporate into your special day.

Cast your net wide and explore different options.

Remember that it's a joint decision, so compromise with your fiancé is essential to find the venue that meets both of your needs.

Choose your wedding caterers

Once you've taken care of the basics on your wedding planning list, it's time to choose a caterer. Start by nailing down your guest count, preferred date, and budget. Keep in mind that some venues may have in-house caterers, while others may not allow outside vendors. If you value having freedom of choice, this is an important factor to consider. A reliable wedding caterer will work with you to understand your vision and dietary needs, providing helpful tips to guide your decision-making. Be sure to consider your guests' dietary requirements, as a good caterer should be able to accommodate everything from gluten-free to religious restrictions.

Plan your wedding menu

Planning your wedding menu is a crucial aspect of your big day, but it's not always easy to know where to begin. Consider these key factors before starting: your wedding date, venue, budget, and guest list. You may also find it helpful to consult a professional caterer for expert advice on everything you need to consider when designing your menu.

Plan your guestlist

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the guest list. The number of guests you choose to invite is a critical factor that impacts several aspects of your wedding planning, from venue options to catering budgets. While it's tempting to invite everyone you know, it's crucial to be mindful of the expenses and keep your guest policy strict. Do you really want distant relatives you haven't seen in years eating into your honeymoon fund? Keep these factors in mind when creating your guest list.

Sort out invitations

Are you planning your wedding and feeling overwhelmed by the guest list? With so many changes in the wedding industry over the years, it can be hard to know who to invite. Here are some tips to help you out:

Create two separate checklists – one for essential guests and another for those you would like to invite.

Allocate a budget per head to help you decide who to invite. As a rough guide, the average reception will cost £120 per head.

Once you have finalised your guest list, it's time to get the invites out. While virtual invites are increasingly popular, a physical invite can add that special touch. A beautifully crafted and thoughtfully posted physical invite can make a lasting impression.

Consider what's important to you and your partner when deciding on invitations. Wedding planning guides are full of creative and cost-effective DIY wedding stationery ideas. The average cost of an invite is around £8 each, so consider cutting costs here to spend more on other elements of the day.

Remember, the most important thing is to celebrate your love with those who matter most to you.

Keep organised

To ensure that every detail is accounted for and every possibility is considered, it's important to create a wedding planning checklist and use it regularly. Regardless of whether you're a meticulous planner or laid-back, the checklist should be a living document that evolves and adapts as your wedding plans progress. Jot down all of your ideas, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem, so you don't become overwhelmed with a flood of wedding planning ideas. With the list in hand, you can manage your time and prioritize your tasks as your wedding plans take shape. Plus, there's nothing more gratifying than checking off items from your to-do list!

Salters Events are here to help

We love nothing more than bringing our customer’s wedding planning ideas to life and have worked with many happy couples over the years to make sure all of their catering needs are met. Please feel free to get in touch and our dedicated team who will be delighted to share more details about their wedding catering services, making the catering one more thing you can confidently tick off your wedding planning list!

To let us help, ring 07709427811 or email hello@saltersevents.co.uk