Shortly after getting engaged, the advice started. Even women I bumped into at a store had something to say about how we should plan our wedding. Not that I’m complaining — I’d rather learn from another person’s mistakes in this case. And who can resist the urge to talk about the biggest party of your life? I haven’t even tied the knot and I’m already doling out advice from my readings.
I’m sure other brides-to-be are scouring the Internet for as much information as possible — at least that’s what I tell myself — but a lot of the information can seem too broad or commercialized to be helpful.
Owner of Allentown – based An Affair to Remember by Sharon Dickinson reached out to offer her own advice for new brides in the area. Dickinson was a consultant in the area from 1995 to 2001 and has been reviving her business during the past year.
Dickinson offered what she thinks are the five most important things for newly engaged couples to know about planning.
Make a budget. Without a clear budget and preferences at the start, couples risk running over budget.
Book the ceremony site and reception venue ASAP. Most locations are being booked at a minimum of one-and-a-half to two years before the date for a Saturday event.
Watch the time. When booking entertainment, be sure the amount of time you book the act matches with amount of time you have the reception site.
“Otherwise, they will be paying for extra hours for the music or hall to accommodate the other,” Dickinson says.
Look for flexibility. When booking a photographer, Dickinson suggests seeing if they are tied to a program or if a custom album can be put together — this allows for flexibility. Also be sure the photography package allows for time before the wedding, the wedding and most of the reception so the couple does not lose an hour or two of photos by not planning out the time.
Get it done. Finishing plans right away lets the couple have fun being engaged.
“That’s what all of this should be about, having fun and enjoying your time together, stress free,” Dickinson points out.
