advice
LOCK IT IN 12 - 18 months before
PHOTOS : NATHAN DUMLAO ; NICK KARVOUNIS ; JAKOB OWENS / UNSPLASH
• Do a recce . If you ’ ve never visited the location before , grab the opportunity for a look-see and a sneaky minibreak in one !
• Book it , baby ! Lock in your venue and flights . This step will also put you in touch with one of the most important people in your planning journey : your wedding coordinator .
• Bringing guests ? Let them know as soon as possible , especially if there is overseas travel involved . You may prefer to do a ‘ save the date ’ style email followed by a more formal invite with more information later .
• Start a wedding website as a handy way to organise your details and update your guests , wherever you are in the world .
• Check or renew your passports , stat !
BEFORE YOU GO 8-12 months ahead
• Shop for a gown and suit , especially if you ’ re planning on a custom dress . Ask the pros about how to pack your gown ready for flight .
• Shop for shoes , headpiece and / or veil , bomboniere if applicable .
• Choose your team . Your resort can assist with most reception elements . But if you want to hand-pick services like a photographer , celebrant and videographer , start researching .
• Honour your location through your choice of food , décor , entertainment or with a traditional blessing . Your coordinator will be able to suggest plenty of options for a local touch .
DETAILS , DETAILS 3-5 months
• Confirm your wedding playlist with the perfect tunes or entertainment for your entrance , cocktail hour , and reception .
• Finalise any group activities .
• Lock in any final vendors
• Research or finalise your honeymoon . Hooray !
• Finalise shipping options . If you ’ re sending your gown and suit on ahead ( saves hassle at the airport ), make sure you ’ ve researched insurance and postage options .
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