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Choosing your wedding venue is really the start of the planning process. Once you have a location locked down, you can start figuring out all of the other details of your big day. While some don’t have to be done ASAP, there are a few you’ll want to cross off your to-do list sooner than later. Here are eight you’ll want to get done right away.
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1. Start Saving
Your venue is likely to be the biggest expense for your big day, so once you put down that deposit it's time to set a budget for all of the other wedding-related items and start saving, says Shelley Grieshop of Totally Promotional.
2. Finalize the Guest List
Couples should really hone the guest list before booking a venue, but many don't. Before you send out those save the dates, you need to finalize your list, says Bobby Becker of dBb Group, Ltd. "If the place only holds 150 people don’t invite 250 and hope a 100 people don’t show!"
3. Interview Wedding Planners
There are some advantages to hiring a wedding planner for your big day, including helping you find the right vendors within your budget. So it's worth it to at least talk to a few before deciding if this is a service you need for your event.
4. Book Must-Have Vendors
If you know your wedding wouldn't be complete with one company providing one thing in particular, get on their calendars to ensure that they have your date saved for you, recommends Meghan Brumbley of DC Engaged.
5. Choose Your Colors
Once you see your venue, you'll be able to choose the right colors for your big day. "The choice should reflect the personality of both the bride and groom," says Grieshop.
6. Find an Officiant
"I've seen so many couples wait until the last minute to start looking for one and they can't find one or find one they want to share their big day with," says Tommy Waters of The Renaissance. "The good ones book fast so don't wait too long."
7. Schedule Time Off
You don't want to even risk your boss saying you didn't give them enough warning, says Brumbley.
8. Send Out Save the Dates
You won't have time to call everyone, but you still want to be able to ensure everyone has the best chances of being there, says Brumbley. This is especially important for guests that will have to travel to the wedding location.
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