Newly Engaged? What To Do Part One

So you got engaged over the holidays! How romantic! Congrats to you. What to do next? There are so many things to do you do not know what to do. Take a look at some of my suggestions:

1. Keep on smiling and tell everyone you know!

2. Keep a sense of humor during the planning process.

3. Set a date or maybe even two dates for your search for a venue and a church. Pick dates that are significant to you both and try to look at family availability as well. Remember both families..that is how you need to start thinking!

4. Set a budget. This is where most couples get overwhelmed. According to theweddingreport.com the average 2011 budget appears to be predicted in the $20,000 to $25,000 range with an average guest list of 135 to 150 people for the wedding alone. Will your parents contribute? Or will you finance the entire bill? This is a really comprehensive list that should include all expenses so that there are no surprises.
A. Wedding rings
B. Wedding dress and other attire, shoes and jewelry
C. Bridal party attire for groomsmen and bridesmaids and ring bearer and flower girl
D. Rehearsal dinner
E. Transportation
F. Spa appointments to include test make up and hair appointment for the bride
G. Church and Officient fees
H. Wedding planner fees if needed
I. Band or DJ fees
K. Photographer/ videographer fees
L. Florist fees
M. Venue fees
N. Catering fees
O. Bar fees
P. Cake fees
Q. All necessary taxes and tips
R. The after party costs
S. Rental fees
T. Honeymoon costs
U. Gifts for bridal party and parents
V. Brunch for the day after the wedding
W. Change of outfit for bride and groom
X. Wedding night accommodations
Y. Moving costs
Z. Gift for each other

Wow the whole alphabet. Do not let this overwhelm you. It is guide to help you know the different facets of the entire process. You need to be informed so that you can make appropriate decisions regarding one of your life’s biggest events!

Come back in a week or so and see part two. Any questions please contact me.

10 Tips to Choose a Caterer

Choosing the right caterer can make a big difference in any
event. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a
caterer:

1. A
   Tasting – A good caterer should offer a menu
   tasting. I think it is unreasonable for a caterer not to offer this
   service. How can you know what a caterers food is like if you don’t
   taste their food?
2. An
   Estimate – Provide your caterer with your budget. It
   is much easier to prepare an appropriate menu when the caterer is
   given a budget number. Note that most caterers do not include
   applicable State taxes and requested gratuity in the quoted (per
   person) price.
3. References – Ask for and
   seek out references, and then call them! A good caterer will be
   able to provide many references. Ask about the caterer’s
   presentation, enthusiasm, quality of food and service.
4. Respect – Find a caterer
   that will follow your food values if you require only local or
   organic ingredients, or a green event.
5. A Contract – Ask the caterer
   if there will be any additional fees. Make sure you secure a good
   contract.
6. A
   Presence – Ask the caterer if he/she will actually
   be at your event.
7. Accessories – Find out what
   the caterer provides in addition to food and ask for any charges
   applicable such as chafing dishes etc.
8. An Interest – Is the caterer
   you are talking to really listening to you? Is he or she really
   interested in you and your event?
9. Insurance – Make sure that
   the caterer is properly insured and licensed.
10. A Relationship – Always
    choose someone you are comfortable with.

If
you have any stories to share or questions to ask, please feel free
to comment!