1. Set Your Budget
While it isn’t the most exciting element of planning your wedding day, setting a budget is essential. After all, you do need to know what you have to spend. With a figure in mind, you can allocate an amount to different elements of the day, focusing on the things that are most important to you. Always allow a little extra for contingency… after all, you might just have to splash out on those amazing shoes or a live band!
2. Plan the Guest List
You’re likely to spend the majority of your budget on food and drink so you need to know how many people you’ll be catering for. Write an initial list and trim it down a little if you have too many people. With the number of guests in mind, you can really start thinking about your wedding at Pentney Abbey, the flow of the day and the menu. When it comes to invitations, work on the basis that you should send them out 8-12 weeks before the big day. You might allow a little longer for any guests travelling from overseas.
3. Book Key Suppliers
With your wedding date and wedding venue in hand, it’s time to book some other key suppliers. Photographers, videographers, florists, musicians and cake designers are often in great demand. Our team at Pentney Abbey will be delighted to assist with our recommended suppliers and, of course, your wedding menu will be in the capable hands of the talented chefs at Unique Norfolk Venues.
4. Shop, shop, shop!
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to hit the shops for outfits and accessories. When it comes to your wedding dress, it’s a good idea to allow time for any alterations and fittings. Shop around before you purchase… and don’t forget that the groom and his ushers also need to be doing the same.
5. Consider the Details
You probably have an idea of how you want your wedding to look so take time out to consider any decorations you might like. With so much natural beauty, Pentney Abbey needs very little additional décor but it’s lovely to add some personalised touches in the form of stationery, favours and flowers.
6. Plan the Day
Our Pentney Abbey team will be on hand throughout your planning process to discuss every possible detail. It’s time to plan your day, thinking about the natural flow of your wedding, where you would like things to take place and the timings you have in mind. You might, for example, want to consider how music will be part of your ceremony, where you and your guests will enjoy welcome drinks and where you might like to have photographs taken.
7. Take Time Out!
Amidst all this planning… make sure you take some time away from it all. Remember what the day is all about and why you’re getting married, and chat about things that have absolutely nothing to do with the wedding.
8. Confirm the Details
As you get closer to your big day, give all your suppliers a ring to confirm the details and make final decisions. You don’t want any unexpected surprises on the day itself. It’s also a good idea to make a list of contact numbers for all your suppliers. Give a copy to your bridesmaids and your events team so that they have them on the day.
9. Make a 7 Day Plan
As the big day looms, make a plan for the final week, ensuring you give yourself very little to do the day before the wedding. And, remember to delegate! You simply can’t do everything yourself so be sure to ask bridesmaids and ushers to give you a helping hand with those last minute details.
10. Relax and Enjoy
As the big day arrives, allow plenty of time to get ready. Savour every moment and have a good breakfast or lunch (depending on the time of your ceremony). Your special day is finally here!
If you have yet to visit Pentney Abbey, we would love to show you all we have to offer. Simply call our friendly team on 01485 500292 or contact us online.
