Take the time to get the planning right

Getting engaged is such an exciting time for you and your partner, as well as close family and friends.

We always seem to be in a rush these days, so try to take a little time to enjoy the afterglow of your happy announcement before you set your minds to the task of planning the big day!

Once you have shared your good news, if both sets of parents are yet to meet, then this is an ideal opportunity to organise a celebratory get-together.

And if you thrive on planning you can always throw an engagement party – or even delegate this event to family or friends while you get on with organising the wedding.

Next, the key things to do are setting a budget and also starting to compile a guest list, as this will not only be likely revised several times it may also influence your choice of venue depending on capacity.

As bridesmaids and grooms can play an important role early in proceedings, you may also wish to start choosing your wedding party.

To help you along, here’s a handy checklist for the first six months of your big plans:

12 months before: Set a provisional date, make a guest list, agree your budget, book the ceremony and reception venue, start shopping for a dress.

11 months before: Book a photographer and/or videographer, book the entertainment, order the cake, choose bridesmaids, best man, pageboys and ushers.

10 months before: Choose a dress and put down a deposit – often 50%, choose your bridesmaids’ dresses, scout suppliers, send out Save the Date cards.

Nine months before: Organise a wedding gift list, organise flowers, book the honeymoon.

Eight months before: Confirm details with suppliers – especially caterers, confirm arrangements for the ceremony.

Seven months before: Order invitations and envelopes, table stationery, favours and cake boxes, organise flowers, including buttonholes, bouquets and

flowers for the ceremony and reception.

Six months before: Book transport, ensure outfits are organised for the groom, best man and ushers, choose wedding rings.

As the countdown to tying the knot continues you will be finalising details for your honeymoon, drawing up your seating plans, sending out invitations at least six weeks prior and, of course, looking forward to your hen and stag parties.