How to Make a Wedding Plan Checklist

Preparing a wedding plan checklist requires two important things, organization and setting deadlines in order for you to have a successful wedding. Sit down with your mate and be sure that both of you include all the special details you have envisioned for a unique wedding.
Many people make the mistake of choosing a date and then waiting months before they take action, falsely believing they've got plenty of time. Then two weeks before the wedding, they wonder why all of their hair has fallen out. If you're not ready to lose your hair at a time when you need it the most, get organized and follow these hair-saving tips to ensure that the months and weeks leading up to your wedding day are filled with wonder; and not worry.

Things You'll Need

• wedding planner

Instructions

1. Couples should agree and choose a date together. Choose a date that is special and means something to the both of you - but make sure that the date is at least a year away. Don't be tempted to rush the date just because you want to get married on Valentine's Day, when its only five months away. Instead, plan for the next Valentine's Day or choose another date to give yourself plenty of time.

2. Decide on a budget that you can afford and stick to it. You don't want to spend on one day what you will have to pay back for years to come. Don't fall into the trap of believing you have to spend a lot of money to "show" your love for one another. You can have an affordable and beautiful wedding with the proper planning. Make a wedding plan checklist to help you prioritize your most desired features and cut out unnecessary expenses. If you've always dreamed of releasing doves on your wedding, devote a portion of your budget to that, then save money by appointing a talented family member to DJ the reception instead of paying for a professional - you'll probably enjoy the music a lot better anyway, because they understand your personal taste in music.

3. Invest in a day planner that you can devote to all of your wedding deadlines and to-do activities to get you on track. Choose a large one with pockets or folders that will allow you to keep all of your documents in one handy spot. Have some fun with it - decorate it; turn it into a wedding keepsake that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

4. Set early deadlines for completion of these items that are a must for your wedding plan checklist: Choose your colors and a style or a unique theme for your wedding. Decide on several possible locations for the ceremony and the reception to give yourself a better chance of securing the date. If the location is more important, you'll have to be more flexible on the date. Choose your bridal party and their attire - Who will be the best man? Who will be the maid/matron of honor? Who will officiate your wedding? Sign up for several gift registries. Can you afford a caterer or will the great cooks in your family prepare the food? But, be sure to hire a professional to photograph and/or videotape your wedding. The precious moments of this special day cannot be recaptured once they are lost. Hire someone who can show a portfolio of their work to prove that they know what they are doing.

5. Start shopping for a wedding dress early. You'll give yourself a better chance of finding one that fits your style and budget if you give yourself more time to find it. This is another decision you don't want to rush. Keep in mind that this is your wedding. It should be unique and representative of you and your mate. Don't allow the expectations of others to influence what you want to add to your wedding plan checklist.

6. These steps provide the foundation for creating that wedding you've always wanted, but they are not the only steps. Additional steps to add to our wedding plan checklist will be determined by your personal taste and desires for your wedding. This is why you want to start planning at least a year in advance to give yourself time to generate wedding ideas that are unique to you. These steps will help you get organized, but will give you the freedom to customize a pleasurable wedding experience that you and your family can cherish for years to come.