4 Things to Think About Before Planning a Wedding

Who loves having options? I think it’s safe to say we all do—especially when it comes to celebrations!

But sometimes too many choices can be overwhelming. Think of all the choices a bride has to make: flowers, cake, an indoor or outdoor venue, how many in the wedding party, who to invite and who to cross off the list, to have a full meal or just hors d'oeuvres. And that’s just scratching the surface!

It’s equally exhausting and exciting to plan a wedding. But the great thing is, no two weddings are going to look alike. And that’s because of all the choices—little and big—that you make along the way. 

These choices and details are what make your day special. Unique. Reflective of who you are.

And that’s exactly what a wedding should do—a wedding should reflect you, your soon-to-be spouse, and your future together.

So what’s the first step in planning a wedding?

It’s Goal-Setting!

I know I know…you immediately think of New Year’s Resolutions or starting on a diet and exercise plan.  But this is a little different and it can be fun. Plus this tip will help make future decisions much smoother, and dare we say it….easier.

Thinking about our dreams and envisioning what we want is exciting. So, before you get bogged down by all those decision-making details that are sure to come, take some time with your significant other and dream. 

Make it a Dream-Making, Goal-Setting Date Night! 

If you’ve already started making some of those decisions, you know what I’m talking about—it can be overwhelming! So take a step back. Set up a date night and dream again together to make sure you’re heading in the direction you actually want.

Use these questions and talking points to help guide your conversation. Don’t make this just another task to get done though. Make this time together fun, intentional, and effective.

Here’s what to think about before planning your wedding

1. What feeling do you want to create? What’s the vibe of your celebration? 

• Sophisticated and Elegant?

• Relaxed and Informal?

• Colorful and Festive?

• Think of it this way: if you were to put one picture from your wedding on a postcard, what does that look like? Keep this snapshot in your mind as you make the rest of your decisions.

2. How much do you want to be involved in prepping?

• DIY decorations?

• To cater or not to cater?

• Later, this will help you figure out the budget, venue, and guest list.

3. Where do you want the general location to be?

• In the city, out in the country, at a place specifically special to both of you?

• In a church, lodge, home, ballroom, or outdoors?

• In one place or multiple locations?

• Don’t feel the pressure of choosing it right now. Just think in general terms— dreamer-style—where do you picture yourself?

4. How much time do you want to spend celebrating?

• Just one day?

• A full weekend?

• An entire week?

• This too will help you figure out the budget, venue, and guest list during later planning.

And that’s it! Yes, it’s only four questions! But four very important questions because these become the guiding vision that determines everything else. When the two of you are on the same page about these dream-making goals, all the other decisions will become easier to make.

At Cider Mountain, many of our brides come with a vision that combines a few of those dream-making goals. That’s part of what makes our venue unique.

Brides want to celebrate in multiple ways throughout their weekend wedding. They want time with their family and friends, the convenience of having everything in one location, and the ability to combine elegance in their ceremony with a more relaxed atmosphere of a vacation get-away. 

Cider Mountain offers all of that.

How about you? Take time to dream about your wedding, to envision, and then get to planning. It can make all the difference in the process.

For a cute free download of the Dream-Making Questions, click HERE. Convenient to use on your date night or while sitting in your comfy clothes on the couch!