The easy part is over. You’ve said yes to the proposal, celebrated the engagement with friends and family and imagined how happy you will be in holy matrimony. But you still have a wedding to plan. Rather than get overwhelmed by the planning, take a step by step look at what you can do to get through the big day.
The big day
While there is no rush to get married immediately after an engagement, think about the kind of wedding you’d like to plan and set the date accordingly. If you are looking to plan something elaborate — large bridal party, lots of guests — setting the date early in the process is a sure fire way to cross one big thing off of your to do list.
While some places book out years in advance for weddings, there are a ton of places on the First Coast that will play host on your special day without the waiting list. Many of the country clubs on the beach and in town, like Jacksonville Golf and Country Club on Hodges or the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club offer multiple rooms and dates to choose from. If a country club isn’t your thing, consider renting a home on the beach or in historic Avondale for a few days.
The Dress
Some people say that the most important part of the wedding is the dress. Give yourself plenty of time to find one you truly love, so start looking early.
Two important things to remember when looking for a dress are your budget and your body. By the time you make it into a boutique to try on dresses, you’ve undoubtedly got an idea of what would look perfect on you. But keep an open mind and keep the company to a minimum. Take one or two girlfriends you really trust with you for advice and keep in mind that not every style looks flattering on every body. Find something that makes you feel beautiful, even if it isn’t the latest trend.
The Colors
The color palette for a wedding is just as important as the dress. Spring weddings are all about fresh, new things so pick a color that reflects that. While it doesn’t have to be used for everything, picking out a color scheme early makes it easier for you to plan accordingly. Your bridesmaids can get their dresses, you know what flowers to look at and which ones to avoid and you can coordinate the subtle details that will really make your wedding fantastic, right from the beginning.
Another great way to use color is in your makeup and accessories. When it comes to makeup, less is more, but don’t be afraid to use a little color on your face. The idea of makeup is to play up your features — the use of color is a fantastic way to tie it all together. Handmade jewelry, like a necklace from Robin Bass’ bird fish line available at Tootsie’s in Ponte Vedra, is a great way to integrate color and detail. It’s also a simple way to say thank you. Try giving a handmade pair of earrings as a gift to your bridesmaids. Not only can you add subtle color details to your special day, you’re effortlessly thanking those who have bent over backwards to help you.
The Table
There is a lot more to the wedding table these days than just the flowers and the food. When planning, consider the table as a whole and what you’d like to see on it. If you envision the final product, it will make all of the individual details you chose fall into place from the start, not at the last minute.
When planning a table, don’t get stuck with the traditional. You can get beautiful floral arrangements from any of the First Coast’s fantastic florists, but why not try something a little more whimsical? Consider your color scheme and find something everyday, like honey bears and lemon drop candy, that you can make special on a table.
The same thing goes when it comes to food. Many places offer a variety of wedding menu’s to choose from, but don’t feel limited by that. Do you have a favorite local restaurant? Reach out to them early on in the planning process and see if they cater. Looking for something truly unique? If you start looking early enough, you can find exactly what you want without the stress.
The same advice goes when it comes to a cake. Kakes by Katie in Jacksonville offers a fantastic variety of cake flavors and designs for weddings, but if you want to do something really special — ask owner Katie Dixon-Gibbs to make a whole bunch of mini cupcakes instead. They are just a delicious and much easier to serve and eat!
Make memories
Your wedding day is special and you will remember it always, but don’t let it stress you out. Engage professionals, like photographers, planners and caterers, to help you make the special memories you want to pass down for generations.
Reach out to friends and families who have gotten married before you and ask for help. The perfect makeup artist, the best band, the best cocktail, where to honeymoon? You’ll get the answers to all of your questions if you just take things step by step.
