Richmond, Virginia is such a beautiful and diverse wedding destination! With a rich history, an awesome foodie scene, and lots of natural beauty, you and your guests will love celebrating here!
However, events like weddings can be a bit complex, so it’s essential to have a wedding planning outline! Couples should make a comprehensive checklist, outlining everything from the first thing to do when planning a wedding to the last. This way, you’ll be sure you’re not missing anything important and it’ll be a massive stress relief, since you’ve streamlined the process with a clear outline of what to do and when.
To help you get started, here’s everything you need to include in your Richmond VA wedding checklist!
1. First on the wedding planning to do list — lock in your dream venue for the best day ever!
We’re lucky to have so many gorgeous wedding venues in Richmond VA, so I know this is a HUGE decision! But start by scheduling visits to venues you love, and when you find ‘the one’, you’ll know!
You might want to prepare a wedding venue checklist with key questions to ask, such as the venue’s capacity, whether they allow outside catering, what their deposit and cancellation policy is, and their backup options for rain, if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. Also, think about your preferred look and feel for your wedding photography and whether this venue would match it.
In spring and summer, popular Richmond venues can book out quickly, so if you find a winner, put down a deposit right away so you don’t miss out!
2. Hire a local wedding planner in Richmond that you vibe with
A local planner for your celebrations makes a world of difference! They’ll be by your side the whole time, can recommend other key vendors, and will relieve your stress, making it easy for you to relax and enjoy time with your guests, confident that everything is under control.
3. Confirm the rest of your dream team — your Richmond wedding vendors
Next on the wedding checklist — assemble your squad! Your vendors, such as catering, hair and makeup, and your DJ will shape the vibe of your wedding, so lock them sooner rather than later.
Not sure how to find good recommendations? Word of mouth from friends or community Facebook pages are a good start, or your wedding planner can also assist. Happy to help you with suggestions as well!
4. Spread the word with your snazzy invitations!
Time to get creative! Your save the dates should go at least 6-12 months in advance (longer is ok for destination weddings!), and around 3-4 months ahead of time for the actual invitations.
Many couples like to incorporate their wedding colors or theme into their invites, but either way, please make sure your save the dates and invitations include all the details your guests need to know, such as RSVP cutoff dates, dress code, location, and accommodation suggestions.
There are lots of local Richmond design businesses that can help, or you can find lots of templates online as well.
5. Craft your wedding day timeline
Once all your vendors are booked in, sit down to make your timeline. This is simply an itinerary, or run sheet, of the start and finish times for your entire day, from hair and makeup arrival to the bump out at the end of the night. You’ll share this wedding planning outline with your vendors, key to ensuring everyone keeps to schedule.
6. It’s all about the fashion — time to think about your wedding attire
I’m sure you’re already shopping, but if not, time to plan your outfits! Some brides have two dresses, one for the ceremony and one for the reception, but either way, alterations from a seamstress can take at least 6-8, so please please please don’t leave your fittings to the last minute!
Many bridal gowns are either made to order or need to be shipped in before the altering can even get started, so it’s never too soon to start thinking about this.
7. Make plans for your wedding prep and your rehearsal dinner
Last but not least, have you made plans for your rehearsal dinner? This can often be held at your venue, or look for a restaurant or venue nearby where you can welcome your bridal party and share a delicious meal together before the big day!
Also, book any other prep you’ll need ahead of time, such as spa or facial treatments, makeup trial runs, or manicures for your and your bridal party.
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I’m thrilled to hear about your celebration! As your Richmond VA wedding photographer, please reach out with any questions or to lock in your candid, romantic, and authentic wedding photography.
