Best Sources to Find the Perfect Venue in Los Angeles
November 11, 2024
It sounds like you’re planning a wedding in a short period of time. While it may seem daunting, it’s definitely possible with the right approach to planning a wedding in such a short time frame. Whether you’ve always dreamed of a fast-paced engagement or life has simply called for a quick timeline, this guide is here to help.
The best way to plan a wedding in 6 months is to set a budget, finalize your guest list, select and book a venue quickly, hire key vendors such as a photographer, caterer, and DJ, choose wedding attire, send save-the-dates, plan the ceremony and reception, order invitations, and make sure the menu and marriage license are all finalized, while managing final fittings and beauty trials to meet your deadline.
Here’s how to turn six months into the perfect timeline to plan your dream wedding. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started:
Month 1: Set the Foundation
Here’s what you need to know to set the scene for a successful wedding in the first month:
1. Create Your Wedding Budget
- Set a spending limit and identify who will contribute.
- Your budget should be broken down into categories: venue, food, attraction, and décor.
2. Decide on Your Wedding Date
- Choose a date that works for you, your family, and the venue you are considering.
- Flexible dates may be available during the week or off-season. The most expensive days of the week are Friday & Saturday.
3. Draft Your Guest List
- Make a rough guest list to determine the size of the event and the budget.
- It is important to keep in mind that more guests usually mean higher costs.
4. Book the Venue
- Research venues and put a deposit for your date.
- If popular wedding venue is not available, consider parks, art galleries, or private estates and home rentals.
5. Book Key Vendors
- Ensure your photographer, videographer, photo booth and caterer are one of the top priorities in your booking process.
- If you’re hiring a wedding planner or a one-day coordinator, now is the time to call them get everything organized.
6. Start Shopping for Your Wedding Attire
- You can visit bridal boutiques or browse ready-to-wear collections.
- To allow time for alterations, schedule fittings early.
Month 2: Build Your Team
After setting the foundation, it’s time to add details and bring your vision to life.
1. Send Save-the-Dates
- Make sure your guests know the date and location early so they can make plans.
2. Plan Your Wedding Theme
- Pick a theme or color palette that reflects your style together as husband and wife.
3. Research and Reserve Accommodations
- Make reservations for out-of-town guests and provide them with information about booking or make a landing page for guests to book their stay at local hotels.
4. Plan Your Honeymoon
- Plan your trip, book your flights, and make sure your passport is up-to-date.
5. Order Invitations
- You can design and order wedding invitations that align with the theme of your wedding.
Month 3: Dive Into Details
At the halfway mark, focus on the personal touches that make your wedding unique.
1. Finalize Your Guest List
- It is important to confirm the names and contact information of all guests.
2. Book Transportation
- Make arrangements for bridal party transportation and shuttle services for guests. Many couples choose one exotic car for their ride or a limo for the whole group.
3. Choose Flowers and Décor
- Choose floral arrangements, centerpieces, and bouquets with florists.
4. Plan Your Ceremony
- You should work with your officiant to finalize the order of events and any personalized elements.
5. Order Secondary Wedding Party Attire
- Order dresses and suits for the wedding party in time for alterations and have backups, in-case something happens to your main outfit.
Month 4: Stay Organized
After taking care of the big-ticket items, it’s time to take care of the details.
1. Send Invitations
- At least 8 weeks before the wedding, send out your invitations and request RSVPs.
2. Meet With Vendors
- Make sure all details are confirmed with all vendors, including menu choices and photography shots. You can do it over email, call, video-chat or in-person. We suggest to put everyone in a email chain and loop them on any updates.
3. Plan the Seating Chart
- Plan your seating arrangement based on RSVPs.
4. Schedule Final Dress Fittings
- For the big day, make sure your attire and dress fit perfectly.
Month 5: Countdown Begins
Take advantage of this time to tie up loose ends and finalize everything.
1. Obtain Your Marriage License
- Find out what your state’s marriage license requirements are and apply.
2. Create a Wedding Day Timeline
- Provide your vendors and bridal party with a detailed schedule.
3. Confirm Headcount
- Finalize the guest count by following up with guests who haven’t RSVP’d.
Month 6: The Final Countdown
The last month is all about mentally, emotionally, and physically preparing for the big day.
1. Rehearse the Ceremony
- Make sure everyone knows their roles by hosting a rehearsal with your officiant and bridal party.
2. Confirm Final Details
- Verify your vendor’s schedules, contracts, and logistics. This includes finalizing your photography shot list and music selection with your DJ.
3. Pack for the Honeymoon
- Prepare your bags and keep travel documents handy if you’re flying the same pick of your wedding day.
4. Relax and Enjoy!
- Make sure you stay hydrated and be prepared for the best day of your life!
The Big Day: It’s Finally Here!
It’s time to celebrate your love. Trust your team, rely on your loved ones, and concentrate on what matters most.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Plan a Wedding in 6 Months!
It might seem impossible to plan a wedding in six months, but with the right organization and determination, it’s entirely possible. This timeline ensures that you don’t miss anything, leaving you to enjoy the process and your special day.
Weddings are all about celebrating love and being with the one you love. No matter what, your day will be perfect because it is truly yours.
Let’s make this six-month timeline the start of your happily ever after!
