Planning a wedding can be a stressful and overwhelming process, but being intentional in your planning can help you create a meaningful and memorable event. At Olivia Miley Events, intentionality is always a huge goal and topic of conversation as we plan our events. We encourage our couples to consider their priorities, budget, and overall impact when it comes to spending money. But there's many ways to set the tone of intentionality from the moment you say I do! Here are six tips for being intentional in wedding planning:
1. Define Your Priorities:
Before you start planning, sit down as a couple and discuss your priorities for the wedding. What aspects of the wedding are most important to you? Is it the venue, the guest list, the food, or something else? Understanding your priorities will help you allocate your budget and time accordingly, focusing on what matters most to you.
2. Vendors Who Align With Your Priorities:
While we know it's exciting to inquire with all the most popular wedding vendors as soon as you get engaged, it's important to take things one step at a time and search for vendors who align with your priorities. OME suggests that you begin with three vendors first - planning, venue, and photography - so you can set a date and your wedding planner can help partner you with vendors who match your personality, budget, and values!
3. Create a Vision Board:
Develop a visual representation of your ideal wedding by creating a vision board. Collect images, colors, and inspiration from magazines, websites, and Pinterest. This can serve as a reference point to ensure that all the details of your wedding align with your vision and theme. OME brides get the special treat of viewing design boards from over 150 true southern weddings planned by our team! Our top of the line planning software will help turn your digital vision board into a wedding day reality.
4. Set a Realistic Budget:
Establish a budget that reflects your financial situation and priorities. Be realistic about what you can afford, and try to stick to your budget throughout the planning process. Being intentional about your spending will help you avoid unnecessary stress and debt after the wedding. In today's time, weddings have continued to get more expensive. The reality is that being intentional in your spending will be a huge factor in looking back on your wedding day with no regrets! Our OME planning software provides brides with an amazing budget tool to help our brides stay on top of their finances from day 1!
5. Personalize Your Ceremony and Reception:
Infuse your personalities, values, and love story into your ceremony and reception. Write your own vows, choose meaningful music, and incorporate personal touches like family traditions or sentimental decorations. This will make your wedding day unique and special, reflecting who you are as a couple. Premarital counseling with your pastor/officiant is a great way to make sure he or she creates a personal ceremony! For your reception, OME wants your guests to walk in and think "WOW! This looks just like her!", so that is our focus as we add personal touches into your reception space!
6. Curate Your Guest List:
Be intentional about your guest list by inviting the people who truly matter to you and your partner. Don't feel pressured to invite distant relatives or acquaintances if they don't hold a special place in your hearts. A smaller, more intimate guest list can create a more meaningful and personal experience.
Remember that being intentional in your wedding planning is about making choices that resonate with you and your groom, rather than trying to meet others' expectations. It's your special day, and by focusing on what truly matters to you both, you can create a wedding that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. Happy planning, friends! We certainly hope Olivia Miley Events is walking through each step of the way alongside you!