Wedding Planning Questions That Couples Ask
Wedding Planning can be pretty confusing to couples, as you probably have 100 planning questions swirling in your head. The best way to avoid problems in the planning process is to ask questions early. From picking your venue, to save the dates and budget questions, there’s a lot to think about, so we are here to help answer some of those questions so your planning process runs smoothly.
What questions should I ask when touring venues?
This is one of the most important questions of them all! There can be a lot of rules and fine print in wedding venue contracts, so definitely ask questions. Make sure you ask how many hours you have prior to setup and takedown, as this is very important for your vendors. Are there any additional charges like valet parking, restroom attendants, etc? Does the venue come with tables, chairs, tabletop rentals, linens? Choosing a venue that includes these items will cut down your overall cost. The last questions that you must always ask, are there any exclusive vendors that you must use. Sometimes that one vendor that you must use may throw your whole budget off, so choose wisely.
What should our wedding budget be?
Every wedding and couple is different! We always get asked this question and can never give an exact answer. No two weddings are alike, so everyone is going to have a different budget. I always encourage my clients to sit down and come up with a number that they feel is reasonable. A couple should always feel financially comfortable when choosing their budget during the wedding planning process.
Do we have to ___________?
When my couples ask me this question, usually my answer is no. Your wedding is specifically designed for you and your loved one, not for anyone else. There is no script for a wedding, so do what you want! This is your wedding, so you call the shots and make the decisions, we’re just here to keep you organized and give you advice along the way.
Who gets a plus one?
This question always comes up when I sit down with my couples and create their guest-list. The simple answer is, it’s really up to you, but generally anyone in your bridal party will get a plus one and any guest that is in a serious relationship. It also comes down to if your venue can fit those extra guests and if you’re still within your original budget.
Should I hire a videographer?
Hiring a videographer is always an extra cost and is not mandatory, but I always suggest hiring one. Videos and photos are completely different. Your day literally flies by and there are things that you will miss that your videographer will capture. Just think, sound can’t be captured in a photo. Being about to sit down and rewatch you read your vows is such a magical moment.
When should I send out save-the-dates and formal invitations?
When thinking about your invitations, sending them out earlier is always better (especially if most of your guests are flying from out-of-town). We recommend sending your save-the-dates out six to nine months before your wedding and mailing your invitations nine weeks prior to your wedding date. Most of your vendors will need that final headcount a month prior to your wedding, so giving yourself some extra time will allow you to reach out to people that forget to RSVP.
Which side is the bride’s side, and which side is the groom’s side?
Traditionally speaking, the bride’s family sits on the left side and the groom’s family sits on the right side. But today, most couples want their guests to sit wherever they want. Regarding where the couple stands, the bride usually stands on the left side and the groom stands on the right side. Did you know that the bride stands on the left side because “Your heart is located on the left so the bride stands “under his (grooms) heart”. … This keeps the groom’s right hand (“fighting arm” or “sword arm”) free to defend his bride should an enemy try to steal her away at the last minute”.
How to tell your guests you rather them gift cash rather than an actual gift?
I always tell my clients to be upfront and honest with their guests while also being respectful. There are two ways to go about it, you can either include a request at the bottom of your invitation stating that if guests want to gift an item, there will be a card box at the ceremony, or you can add a message on your wedding website.
