Congratulations on your engagement! Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with a bit of organization and a helpful guide, you can make your special day everything you've ever dreamed of. As a Vancouver-based wedding photographer, I've seen many couples plan their weddings, and I've put together this month-by-month guide to help you stay on track.
Explore Our Blog for additional wedding planning tips and inspiration. If you're searching for an aesthetic film inspired wedding photographer in Vancouver, feel free to Contact Us to set up a consultation. Lastly, don't forget to check out our Portfolio to see more of our work.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Step 1 : Set a Budget
The first step is to set a budget for your wedding. This will help you decide how much you can spend on each aspect of your wedding, including venue, catering, photography, and more. Be sure to stick to your budget throughout the planning process.
Step 2 : Choose a Wedding Date
Choosing a wedding date is one of the most important decisions you'll make during the wedding planning process. Consider factors such as the season, weather, and availability of your preferred vendors.
Step 3: Choose a Venue
Selecting the perfect wedding venue is key to creating the wedding of your dreams. Vancouver has many incredible wedding venues, including Bon Accord, Hycroft Manor, UBC Farm, and Brock House Restaurant.
- Bon Accord offers a mix of industrial and rustic charm mixed with elegant decor. With its exposed brick walls and twinkling lights, it's the perfect spot for a unique and memorable wedding.
- Hycroft Manor is a beautiful historic women's club in Vancouver. The elegant and romantic atmosphere is perfect for a classic wedding.
- UBC Farm is a stunning venue that offers a unique outdoor setting for your wedding. A tented wedding in the middle of an expansive field is the perfect way to start forever!
- Brock House Restaurant is a hidden gem in Vancouver, located in Jericho Beach. The waterfront mansion's breathtaking ocean and mountain views will make your photographer's job easy.
Step 4: Hire a Photographer
Once you've selected your venue, it's time to choose a photographer. As a wedding photographer in Vancouver, I offer high-quality wedding photography services that will capture your special day beautifully. Check out my portfolio to see examples of my work.
6 - 12 Months Before the Wedding
Step 5: Send Save the Dates
Send out save-the-date cards to let your guests know about your wedding date and location. This will give them plenty of time to make travel arrangements if necessary.
Step 6: Book Vendors
Book your vendors, including caterers, florists, DJs, and other entertainment. Make sure you choose vendors that align with your style and budget.
Step 7: Choose Attire
Select your wedding dress, as well as bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen attire. Schedule fittings and alterations as needed.
3 - 6 Months Before the Wedding
Step 8 : Plan the Ceremony and Reception
Meet with your wedding planner or venue coordinator to plan the ceremony and reception details, including decor, seating arrangements, and menu options.
Step 9 : Order Invitations
Order your wedding invitations and RSVP cards. Be sure to include important details such as the wedding date, location, and dress code.
Step 14 : Create a wedding timeline
Create a detailed timeline for your wedding day and share it with your vendors and bridal party.
1 - 3 Months Before the Wedding
Step 10 : Finalize Details
Finalize all wedding details, including the ceremony and reception timeline, seating chart, and vendor details.
Step 11 : Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
Schedule hair and makeup trials for yourself and your bridal party to ensure everyone looks their best on the big day.
1 Month Before the Wedding
Step 12 : Review Everything
Review all wedding details and make any necessary adjustments. Confirm all vendor arrangements and finalize the seating chart.
Step 13 : Finalize Details
Finalize all the details with your vendors, including your wedding photographer, Akiko Archive. Make sure all your RSVPs are in, and finalize your seating chart and meal selections. Don't forget to schedule your final dress fitting and arrange for any necessary alterations to ensure you look absolutely stunning. Additionally, it's crucial to confirm transportation arrangements for you and your bridal party to make sure everyone arrives at the ceremony and reception venues on time.
3 Weeks Before the Wedding
Step 14 : Meet with your Dj
Finalize your wedding ceremony and reception music selections with your DJ or band.
Step 15 : Schedule beauty appointments
You should already have your vendor selected, but it's time to schedule hair and makeup trials.
2 Weeks Before the Wedding
Step 16 : Time to Pack
Pack for your honeymoon and confirm any travel arrangements. Don't forget to prepare your wedding-day emergency kit with items such as extra makeup, hair products, and sewing supplies. Give your wedding party and vendors a copy of the wedding-day timeline.
1 Week Before the Wedding
Step 17 : Finishing up all the last-minute details
As your special day draws near, it's important to make sure everything is perfect. Take some time to ensure that every detail is just right, from the flowers to the music. With the help of your vendors, including your wedding photographer, Akiko Archive, double-check all the details and confirm their arrival times. But don't forget to add your own special touch! Take a moment to complete any final DIY projects or add some romantic decor to make your day even more special. And of course, the most important moment of the day is your ceremony. Take some time to rehearse with your officiant and your bridal party, so that everything flows seamlessly and you can focus on the love you share.
The Day Before the Wedding
Deliver any necessary items to your venue, such as a guest book, favours, and place cards.
Have your wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
Get a good night's sleep and relax!
On Your Wedding Day
It's time to enjoy the day you've been dreaming of. Get ready with your closest friends and loved ones by your side, cherishing every moment together as you prepare to walk down the aisle. As you take a deep breath and soak it all in, let the excitement and joy fill your heart. From the ceremony to the reception, dance the night away and savor every precious moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This is your day, so have the time of your life and embrace the love that surrounds you.
We hope this timeline helps you finalize your wedding planning and make your special day a success. Don't forget to check out Akiko Archive's Portfolio for stunning wedding photography and visit Our Blog for more wedding planning tips. And if you're in need of a wedding photographer in Vancouver, don't hesitate to Contact Us to schedule a consultation. And finally, check out our Portfolio for examples of our work. Happy wedding planning!
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