I'm getting married! How do I get started?

 1. Choosing the date and location: The first step in planning a wedding is choosing the date and venue. This should be done at least 6-12 months before the big day, so that you have enough time to do everything and avoid as many stressful situations as possible. Popular venues and dates fill up quickly, so be on your guard.

 2. Setting the budget: Setting your budget is very important, as it will determine what services and activities you will be able to offer at the wedding. It's worth deciding in advance which services you want to spend more on and which you want to spend less on. But within the budget, try to be flexible, if you fall in love with something in the meantime, whether it's decorations, a particular photographer or the perfect midnight dance, be open to a rearrangement.

3. Wedding dress and dress selection: The dresses should also be chosen 6-12 months before the wedding, as it is important that they perfectly match the personality of the bride and groom and the wedding theme.

 4. Preparing and sending wedding invitations: Preparing and sending out wedding invitations to your guests is one of the most important things to do when planning a wedding. The invitations should include the date, venue and dress code. You should send the invitations to your guests at least 3 months before the wedding.

 5. Choosing food and drink: Choosing the wedding menu and drinks is also important. You should choose food and drinks to suit your tastes and budget, and pay attention to the special needs and food sensitivities of your guests. The menu should be outlined at least six months before the wedding and finalised a few months before the big day, based on your guests' special dining needs.

 6. Choosing decorations and flowers: The choice of wedding decorations and flowers is also important. The decorations and flowers you choose will reflect your wedding theme and your personality. It is best to finalise your decoration supplier 4-6 months before the wedding.

7. Organising music and entertainment: Organising the wedding music and entertainment is one of the most important things to do. The music repertoire should be appropriate to your taste, because if you have fun, your guests will party with you! But also leave some room for your guests' requests and suggestions for the DJ or band. Start planning your music and entertainment around 3-6 months before the wedding, but you can tweak it up until the last minute!

 8. Ordering photo and video services: Photographs and videos of your wedding day are essential to preserve your memories. Choosing the right photographer and videography service provider is very important to ensure that the quality and style of your wedding photos and videos meet your expectations. As a very important element of capturing your wedding, it's a good idea to start looking for the right service provider 6-9 months in advance.

9. Choosing a master of ceremonies or best man: With the help of a wedding master or best man, you can coordinate the various activities and involve your guests more easily. When making your selection, it's worth considering their personality, previous work and the services they provide. It is important to choose someone you can work well with and whose style fits the mood of your wedding. Start looking around 6-8 months before your wedding.

 10. Selection of the Registrar: The registrar is in charge of the wedding ceremony, so his or her personality and style can have a big impact on the atmosphere of the wedding. It is also worth considering the registrar's personality, style and previous work when making your choice. If you have the opportunity, it's worth meeting them in advance to get to know each other and agree your ideas. To do this, you need to start your search about 4-6 months before the wedding

 +1. Finding a priest/minister and teaching engagement: If it is a church wedding, it is important to find the right priest or minister. It is worth starting your search early, as popular priests and pastors may already be booked for your wedding date. It is also important to attend an engagement class so that you are better prepared for the wedding ceremony and church customs. It's a good idea to find the right minister or priest for you at least 6 months before the big day.

Wedding planning can be time-consuming and tiring, but the result is worth the effort. The above are the things that every couple should consider when planning a wedding to make their wedding the best it can be. The memories you make at your wedding can last a lifetime, so it's worth paying attention to every detail and every guest to make your big day memorable and magical.