I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “The devil is in the details”. According to Wikipedia.com, this phrase is an idiom alluding to a catch or mysterious element hidden in the details. It indicates that something may seem simple, but in fact the details are complicated and are likely to cause problems. Given this negative connotation, I prefer to use the original phrase “God is in the details”, expressing the idea that whatever one does should be done thoroughly. That is to say, details are important. So it is with wedding planning.
There is no mysteriously hidden element in planning a wedding, just an intentional focus on the details. Here are four details you shouldn’t forget during the planning process that could ultimately make your wedding the most unforgettable experience.
#1 Don’t Forget to Give Yourself Time
Planning a wedding involves endless details, pressing deadlines, sometimes family drama, and far too often, enough stress to make you want to just elope. But, if you give yourself enough time to plan and sort the tasks into a structured wedding-planning checklist, the job becomes more fun and less stressful. Cut your to-do list into bite-sized pieces by creating or using an existing timeline. Identify what should occur 12+ months out down to the night before and day of. If you have less time to plan, consolidate tasks in order to “catch up” to the applicable month.
#2 Don’t Forget to Get it In Writing
Undoubtedly, you will be spending a lot of money. Protect yourself by making sure all details are written down on paper. Review contract points with each vendor, asking clarifying questions to get a full understanding of all deliverables and expectations before signing on the dotted line. Everything has to be in the contract because if it isn’t, or is written incorrectly, you will not be protected if it’s not executed properly.
#3 Don’t Forget to Stay on Budget
It is very crucial to not only nail down how much you have to spend on your wedding, but equally important to stay on budget. Sit down as a couple to decide your top priorities (i.e. venue, food, dress) and then spend most of your budget on those items. Create spending amounts by category to help you stay on track. If you’re tempted to step outside the budgeted amount in one category (i.e. food), find ways to shave from another category (i.e. dress) to maintain your overall budget.
#4 Don’t Forget to Consider a Wedding Planner
Refer to my September 2022 blog for the full article on this subject. But, suffice it to say, investing in a trusted professional to manage the planning and oversee the day-of details will give you a sense of peace, allowing you to focus on the most important thing…the beginning of your new life as husband and wife.