Just getting started

Hi ladies. I just got engaged a month ago. We have not set a date but are thinking about late summer/early fall 2006. I'm amazed that many of you begin planning 2+ years in advance and that has gotten me nervous since I have just now started to do research on planning (reading books/internet/asking friends).

I am prioritizing trying to pick the venue first and worry about the rest later. I hope this leaves me with enough time. Can any of you tell me how much lead time is needed for stuff like flowers, photogs, dresses, favors or any other categories I may be forgetting.

Congrats~~~

I say do the venue first and then worry about the rest. I did the hall and then DJ and Photo next-both were booked up well into 2006 already-

Do some research and start looking at vendors-I am sure there will be dates available and you never know about cancellations.

HTH

Congrats! & welcome to LIW

I planned my wedding in under 9 months, you will be just fine! happy planning

No worries - we planned the whole wedding in 6 months, really four b/c we were not planning for the first few. It's definatly possible, just be flexible as to venue, and also start looking for a dress right away. I ended up getting mine at RK Bridal in Manhattan, where they have some dresses that come in in two weeks. Good luck!

Welcome to the world of wedding planning! Most of us ladies who are waiting a long time for a wedding...is because we have to save up the $$ for it. So if this isn't an issue for you...you should be able to plan your big day no problem!

First and foremost, when you are looking for a venue, remember...ask lots of questions!!! Below is a list of q's you can copy and paste into your word processing program, and print out and bring with you when you look at halls.

Hall:

Date Visited:

Contact:

Phone #:

Address:

Dates Available:

Capacity:

Minimum for room:

Table Size (number):

Table shape:

Maximum Number of Tables for room:

Dimensions of Dance Floor:

Dimensions of Room:

Separate Cocktail Room:

How early can bridal party arrive?

When can vendors arrive to set up?

Bridal Suite size & location:

Number of Concurrent Events:

If more than one event: separate bathroom facilities?

Liquor – top shelf? (Names?)

Is Champagne included throughout the reception?

Are candles allowed?

In-house Wedding Planner?

Do they have indoor and outdoos pic spots?

Photography/Florist – recommendations?

Can we use others vendors?

Any fee for outside vendors?

Insurance requirements for vendors?

Does hall need proof of insurance?

Wedding Cake included?

Any limitations on flavors/fillings?

Cake cutting charge for outside cakes? If so ask that it be reduced or eliminated

Number of Entrée Options:

Can we have a tasting?

When is final menu picked?

Any decorations included?

Do we get a credit if not using centerpieces? How much?

Linen colors:

Ratio of Guests/Waiters:

Ratio of Guests/Bartenders:

Bridal attendant included?

Number of Barss:

Coat Room and Rest Room Attendants?

Is cost included?

Valet – included or additional?

Overtime charges:

Price per person:

How much are vendor meals?

Are kids half price?

What ages?

Any limit on number of half price kids?

Vendors included in minimum?

Are kids included in minimum?

Gratuity/service charge – is it a set fee? Is it distributed amongst all of the workers?

grat/Service charge % (number):

Is grat/service charge taxed:

Hotel recommendations:

Church recommendations:

Direction cards provided? (Get a copy for file)

Deposit amount:

Method of payment:

Payment schedule and is a courtesy reminder sent?

Any tasting events or showcases before we book?

Can we see photos of hall in different seasons (get copies for file)

Timing for final head count:

Can we upgrade if under minimum (no wasted dinners) i.e., cordials or upgrade entrees?

Cancellation and refund policy:

Smoking area?

Any renovations planned?

What/When?

Expected completion date?

WEATHER QUESTIONS (if it will be Winter!):

Plowing?

Cancellation policy due to extreme weather?


***Do not forget to check out the bathrooms:
***Take digital pics of the rooms and grounds for file.

Notes: