Arranging a DIY wedding
Whether it be a marquee, tipi or just a village hall, weddings today have a wide range of locations and with a bit of creative thinking, you can have the day you want without being tied to a wedding venue. Here are some tips below.
Start early: Begin your wedding planning as soon as possible to give yourself ample time to make decisions, book vendors, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise.
Set a budget: Determine your budget early on and allocate funds to different aspects of your wedding. This will help you prioritize and make informed decisions throughout the planning process.
Make a checklist: Create a detailed checklist of tasks and deadlines to stay organized. This will help you track your progress and ensure that nothing gets overlooked.
Prioritize what's important: Identify the elements of your wedding that are most important to you and allocate resources accordingly. This will help you make decisions when faced with choices or constraints.
Research vendors: Take the time to research and compare different vendors for your venue, catering, photography, and other services. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and schedule meetings to find the right fit for your vision and budget.
Get organized with spreadsheets: Use spreadsheets to track your guest list, RSVPs, budget, and other essential information. It will help you stay organized and easily manage the details.
Delegate tasks: Don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. Delegate tasks to trusted individuals who can assist with specific aspects of the wedding planning, such as organizing decorations, coordinating with vendors, or managing the guest list.
Communicate with your partner: Keep the lines of communication open with your partner throughout the planning process. Make decisions together and ensure that both of your visions and preferences are considered.
Take care of yourself: Wedding planning can be stressful, so it's important to take breaks and practice self-care. Dedicate time to relax, exercise, and spend quality time with your partner away from wedding-related tasks.
Enjoy the process: Remember that your wedding is a celebration of your love. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process of planning your special day. Take moments to appreciate the progress you've made and the excitement leading up to your wedding.
These tips should help you navigate the wedding planning process with more ease. Remember that every wedding is unique, so feel free to personalize these tips to fit your specific needs and preferences.
A marquee/tipi wedding is a popular choice for couples who want to have a flexible and customizable outdoor wedding. A marquee is essentially a large tent that can be set up in various locations, such as a garden, field, or even your own backyard. Here are some tips for planning a marquee wedding:
Choose the right marquee: There are different types of marquees available, including traditional pole marquees, clearspan marquees, and stretch tents. Consider factors such as the number of guests, the style you're aiming for, and the location when selecting the type and size of the marquee.
Select a suitable location: Look for a spacious outdoor area that can accommodate the marquee and all the necessary facilities like parking, restrooms, and catering space. Ensure that the ground is level and can support the weight of the marquee.
Consider weather conditions: Keep in mind that marquee weddings are subject to weather conditions. Consider renting additional equipment like heaters or fans to ensure comfort for your guests, depending on the season and climate. Also, have a backup plan in case of inclement weather, such as arranging for an alternative indoor venue or having a contingency plan for rain.
Plan the layout: Work with your marquee supplier to plan the layout of the space inside the marquee. Consider areas for the ceremony, reception, dining, bar, dance floor, and any other elements you want to incorporate. Make sure there is sufficient space for seating, tables, and any additional amenities you require.
Decorate the marquee: Marquees offer a blank canvas for you to personalize and decorate according to your wedding theme and style. Consider using drapery, lighting, flowers, and other decorative elements to create an inviting and romantic ambiance. Consult with a wedding stylist or decorator to bring your vision to life.
Hire reliable suppliers: Choose reputable and experienced suppliers for services like catering, lighting, sound, furniture, and any other requirements. Discuss your needs with them in detail, ensure they have experience working with marquees, and coordinate with them regarding setup and logistics.
Plan for power and facilities: Check if your marquee venue has access to electricity and adequate restroom facilities. If not, you may need to arrange for a generator for power and hire portable toilets for guest convenience.
Coordinate logistics: Ensure that you have a clear plan for the setup and dismantling of the marquee, as well as any additional equipment. Coordinate with your suppliers and venue to ensure a smooth process and timely execution.
Inform your guests: Since marquee weddings often take place outdoors, it's important to inform your guests about the setting and any specific instructions or attire recommendations. Consider providing additional information about parking, accessibility, and any potential weather-related considerations.
Embrace the outdoor setting: Take advantage of the outdoor space by incorporating nature-inspired elements into your wedding, such as outdoor games, a photo booth, or a designated area for guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Remember to consider local regulations, permits, and any venue-specific requirements when planning a marquee wedding. With proper planning and attention to detail, a marquee wedding can provide a beautiful and unique setting for your special day.