Congratulations on your engagement! The journey to your wedding day is an exciting adventure with many important decisions. From budgeting to selecting your dream venue, every detail shapes your big day.
Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a grand celebration, having a step-by-step plan ensures nothing is overlooked. Here’s a guide to keep you on track, stress-free, and ready for a memorable day in Ireland.
Setting Your Budget
Establish your budget first, as it impacts nearly every aspect of your planning. Outline must-haves and nice-to-haves, helping you allocate funds thoughtfully for everything from the guest list to wedding stationery and decor. Print Ready, based in Dublin, offers custom stationery options like wedding invitations, RSVP cards, and personalised save-the-dates that make a beautiful first impression while staying within your budget.
Crafting Your Guest List
Determine your guest list early, as this will shape the venue, catering, and overall feel of the day. Knowing your numbers also makes decisions like seating arrangements and table decor easier. For seamless guest coordination, Print Ready provides wedding address labels and custom info sheets to ensure guests have everything they need.
Setting the Date and Choosing the Venue
Popular Irish wedding venues book quickly, so begin your search early. Whether you envision a rustic countryside estate or a chic Dublin venue, find a setting that reflects your personality. Once the venue is booked, finalise your date and take care of any necessary legal requirements with Ireland’s Civil Registration Office.
Defining Your Theme and Vision
From vintage to minimalist, your theme shapes the decor, attire, and details that make your wedding uniquely yours. A mood board with inspirational colours and textures helps when choosing decor and accessories. For a cohesive look, consider Print Ready’s customised table plans, name cards, and personalised wedding menus.
Booking Key Vendors (10-11 Months Out)
- Photographer/Videographer: Book early to secure someone whose style you love.
- Entertainment: Decide on entertainment that suits your style, whether it’s a DJ, live band, or interactive photo booth.
- Catering: If catering isn’t provided, select your preferred style and book a tasting session.
- Florist: Choose a florist who understands your theme and venue layout for the perfect floral arrangements.
Personalising the Details (8-9 Months Out)
Start personalising by designing your invitations to reflect your theme and include RSVP details. Print Ready’s custom invitations and wine bottle labels add a touch of personality to your day. This is also a good time to choose your wedding attire and consider wedding insurance for peace of mind.
Finalising Logistics (4-5 Months Out)
- Wedding Cake: Select a baker and book a tasting.
- Transport: Arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests if needed.
- Hair and Makeup: Book a trial to finalise looks.
- Honeymoon Plans: Confirm travel arrangements and passports.
Fine-Tuning Details (2-3 Months Out)
Confirm RSVPs and guest count to finalise seating and catering. Consider small, meaningful wedding favours from Print Ready, such as engraved glasses or mini candles. Write vows and speeches, and create a day-of timeline to keep things running smoothly.
Last Preparations (1 Month Out)
- Vendor Check-ins: Confirm details with vendors.
- Final Dress Fitting: Ensure all attire fits perfectly.
- Rehearsal and Dinner: Practice the ceremony and enjoy a relaxed meal with close family and friends.
- Emergency Kit: Pack essentials for the day.
The Final Week: Embrace Every Moment
With all your planning complete, focus on relaxing. Break in your wedding shoes, polish rings, and enjoy time with loved ones. On the day, be present, trust your preparation, and soak in each moment.
After the Wedding: Reflecting and Saying Thank You
- Thank-You Cards: Within a couple of months, send personalised thank-you cards to guests. Print Ready’s customisable thank-you cards make it easy to extend gratitude.
- Preserve Memories: Create a photo book or digital album with highlights from your day.
- Vendor Reviews: Show appreciation for your vendors by leaving reviews, supporting local Irish businesses and helping future couples.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
With careful planning and the right resources, your wedding will be a true reflection of your love story. From custom stationery to personalised touches, Print Ready in Dublin has everything you need to make your Irish wedding unforgettable.