Love is in the air for couples who managed to score a proposal on this romantic day. Now comes the wedding planning, and though it sounds more stressful than blissful, there are things to avoid and consider so you can stay on track to experience the day you’ve always dreamed about.
First of all, a good wedding planner is a must. Many are available free online at sites like WeddingWire.com or WeddingHappy.com.
There’s also a one-stop shop at Minted’s complimentary wedding concierge service — their consultants meet couples virtually to help with save the dates and invitations. They’ll even set up a premium wedding website for $49.
For brides who like to go old school and have a written ledger, the Knot’s best-selling “Ultimate Wedding Planner and Organizer” (Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed, $25.49) updated for 2021, contains timelines, budgets, calendars, checklists and even etiquette pointers.
Or, check out “Your Wedding, Your Way,” an insightful new handbook by Scott Shaw and Kim Olsen. $22.95 at ChronicleBooks.com, out Feb. 22.
As for the order of business, Sara Fried of Fête Nashville Luxury Weddings likes to lock down a ceremony and reception venue right away, which also gives you the wedding date. The earlier you do this, the sooner you can book the big-ticket items and then enjoy filling in all the details.
When it comes to these additions, “definitely add some personal touches so your guests learn a little more about your love story and you as a couple,” said Fried.
Locating a photographer is another important early step. Fried advised couples not to skimp on photography, since that’s your forever keepsake. “Look for photographers who are great at capturing candid moments and true colors,” she said.
To capture every memorable moment without exceeding the budget, Shoott.com is a service that matches highly vetted photographers to clients in 60 cities across the US.
After a free 30-minute shoot, you’ll receive a digital gallery of 40-plus photos which can be purchased at $295, or you can buy individual photos. As of March 1, they are partnering with Shutterfly.com for additional options.
Bear in mind that supply chain issues and shipping delays are still problematic, so more couples are staying local for all their wedding needs. Hometown Flower Co., a sustainable florist based in Huntington, New York, only works with local suppliers to maintain quality control.
“Through our relationships with our growers, we work together on a weekly basis to ensure we are kept in the loop on what is coming into bloom so we know what will work for our upcoming designs,” said co-founder Jaclyn Rutigliano.
Here, we’ve found some fun items that you might want to put on your new wedding checklist.
Personalize your partner’s name or future wedding date on this super chic bangle — you’ll never miss an anniversary. $2,800 at Stephanie Gottlieb
Why wait to assemble your crew? Send a scented candle and a request to be part of the wedding party, printed on a recycled glass vessel handmade by female artisans. $44 at The Little Market
Give your party guests the freedom to doodle and record happy wishes in this beautifully bound and embroidered guest book. $50 at Rifle Paper Co.
Never lose sight of your new engagement ring in this playful decoupage oyster jewelry dish. $44 at Shop Navy Bleu
These edible save the dates are almost too perfect to eat. From $75 for 12 at Saint Michel Bakeshop, 462 Irving Ave., Brooklyn (delivery, shipping or pick up)
Looking for a unique and fun way to share your save the date with guests? These telegrams come blank so you can leave whatever message you like, then cover it with a scratch off sticker so guests have to uncover the surprise. $6 each or $20 for a box of 6 at Inklings Paperie. Use code code “NYPOST” for 10 percent off any order placed through the end of March
