How to plan a wedding FAST!

Tips for getting from “I will!” to “I DO!” in less than 6 months (without losing your mind!)

If you’re wondering how to plan a wedding quickly, we’re here to help! A beautiful celebration with your family and friends is totally doable in just 3 to 6 months. Stay focused, be flexible, and trust your gut. You’ve got this!

First Things First!

There are a lot of big decisions to make in the first month. Here’s where to start:

1. Set a budget

Having a realistic spending plan will help you prioritize the things that matter most. For example, some couples prefer an elegant plated meal, while others are just as happy with a buffet. Saving money in one area may give you freedom to splurge on something else. We recommend talking with your future spouse and making a “top three” list together.

2. Start your guest list

You don’t need every single name, but get a rough idea of how many people will be at your wedding. It will help while researching vendors. For example, Blue Vista can accommodate 70 guests in the Stone Lodge, 300+ in the Cedar Pavilion, and many more outdoors.

3. Research & book a venue

A lot of venues book weddings a year in advance, so be sure you have several dates in mind before you start making calls. Consider a Friday evening or Sunday option if your preferred date isn’t available.

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UPGRADE SPECIAL

Right now, we’re offering a FREE UPGRADE to the next package level when you book & hold your wedding at Blue Vista before July 31, 2019. Treat yourself to something special, like an extra night’s stay in the Stone Lodge or done-for-you set up and tear down.

• Small Wedding Packages: https://bluevista.info/pages/small-wedding-packages
• Large Wedding Packages: https://bluevista.info/pages/large-wedding-packages

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4. Book additional vendors

Your vendors will want to know the date and location of your wedding, so be sure to take care of those first! Then, work through this list:

• Caterer
• Photographer
• Videographer
• DJ/Entertainment
• Officiant
• Florist
• Cake Baker

Helpful Tip: Find a list of local vendors on our website. These are people we recommend because of the quality of services they offer and the character with which they treat others. Check it out: https://bluevista.info/pages/recommended-vendors-new

5. Say YES to the dress

If you’re opting for a traditional wedding dress, you need to start looking right away. It often takes 6 to 9 months to order and fit a gown. However, there are some options that can save you time and money:

• Buy a dress off the rack and have a seamstress alter it.
• Select a brand that offers free rush shipping.
• Negotiate the price. Ask the bridal salon if they would throw in free shipping if you buy the dress today rather than come back.

If you’re open to the non-traditional route, consider a white bridesmaid dress or white prom dress. Browse the formal section at department stores like Nordstrom or Dillards or visit a vintage thrift shop.

Be Flexible.

Don’t stress if your preferred vendor isn’t available (or isn’t in the budget). With a little creativity, you can still have your dream wedding. Here are some fun, fresh ideas:

Cake

• Buy a simple grocery store sheet cake. Make it YOURS with a fun cake topper. (Check Etsy!) Add personality and a pop of color with fresh flowers.
• Enjoy a tiered platter of cake donuts from your favorite donut shop.
• Have a potluck dessert bar. Ask friends who love baking if they could make a couple pies or several dozen cookies. Or, invite every guest/household to bring their favorite dessert to share.

• No time for a custom design? Choose a print-at-home option. You can find boxes of blank invites at stores like Hobby Lobby or Staples.
• Order online from a company like VistaPrint or Minted. They have cute designs and normally ship within a week.
• Send electronic invites instead of mailing traditional ones. Ask people to RSVP by email. If you go this route, consider printing a few invites for special guests (like your grandparents) or people who aren’t as tech-savvy.

 DJ

• Use our speakers and put your favorite playlist on a smartphone.
• Ask a friend to play DJ for the night. Encourage your guests to request their favorite tunes.
• Designate someone as a "Master of Ceremonies" if you would like to announce dinner, first dance, cake cutting, etc.  Give them a schedule so they know what they're supposed to do and when.

Flowers

• Buy cut flowers in bulk from a warehouse like Costco or Sams Club and arrange them yourself.
• Know someone with a lovely garden? Ask if they would provide simple arrangements for your wedding day. Tie stems with twine or ribbon for rustic, laidback bouquets.
• Contact the horticulture club on campus and see if they offer a student discount.

Include Friends and Loved Ones

People are excited to celebrate with you! Give them an opportunity to use their talents and share your joy.

As tasks come to mind, write them down so that you don’t have to wrack your brain when people ask how they can help. Create a shared spreadsheet to keep track of who’s doing what.

•  Invitation Party: Pop in a movie and crank out those hand-lettered envelopes with the help of your wedding party and besties.
• Centerpiece Party: You’ve been pinning DIY ideas forever. Bring them to life with the help of some artsy friends. You’ll have a blast and make memories in the process.
• Skill Share: Know someone who’s great at photography, floral arranging, cake decorating, or alterations? Ask if they would share their talent with you in lieu of a wedding gift. (Be sure to compensate them appropriately for their time.)

Practice Gratitude

You’ll probably feel overwhelmed at some point during the wedding planning process. Keep a gratitude list things that are going well. Be sure to write down sweet things about your future spouse, too!

When you’re feeling stressed, read through your gratitude list and think about the bliss that’s coming on your big day. You’ll be saying “I DO!” in no time!

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