Congratulations on your engagement! The period after saying “yes” for newly engaged is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming as you start planning your special day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle the early stages of wedding planning with confidence as you search for your Lake Martin Wedding Venue. Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast is a Victorian Inn established in 1895 that's on the historic register, so if vintage esthetic is your jam, look no further! Now, let's get to it....how to find your perfect wedding venue.
Set A Budget
Your budget is the foundation of your wedding plans, making it the best place to start. Begin by determining who will contribute—whether you’re funding the wedding yourselves or receiving help from family—so you can set realistic expectations. Break the budget into major categories such as venue, food, attire, photography, and décor, and always leave a buffer of 10-15% for unexpected expenses. To stay organized, use tools like apps or spreadsheets to track your spending. 💡 Pro Tip: Prioritize splurging on the aspects of your wedding that matter most to you as a couple, and save on the elements that are less important.
Create a Guest List
Your guest list plays a significant role in shaping your venue, budget, and overall wedding vibe, so it’s important to get a rough idea early on. Start by listing the must-have attendees—family and friends you can’t imagine your day without. If space or budget constraints arise, establish priority “tiers,” such as immediate family, close friends, and colleagues, to make adjustments as needed. Ensure your guest count aligns with your venue’s capacity to prevent overcrowding. 💡 Pro Tip: Opting for a smaller guest list can create a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, especially in charming venues like a Victorian mansion or a cozy bed-and-breakfast.
Choose Your Wedding Date
Your wedding date sets the timeline for your planning and influences everything from availability to weather. Start by considering the season and the atmosphere you envision, whether it’s a cozy fall celebration, a sunny summer event, or a blooming spring wedding. Check the availability of key guests and vendors if they’re non-negotiable to ensure they can attend. Additionally, factor in budget considerations, as off-season or weekday weddings often provide more flexibility and affordability. 💡 Pro Tip: Select a date with personal significance, such as the anniversary of your first date, to add an extra layer of meaning to your celebration.
Select a Venue Early
Selecting a venue early is crucial, as popular venues around Lake Martin tend to book up quickly. Once you’ve set your budget and guest list, begin touring options in person to visualize your day, whether it’s in an elegant ballroom or an intimate Victorian mansion. Be sure to ask about included amenities such as tables, chairs, or catering, and account for any extras in your budget if they’re not provided. Mistletoe Bough B&B includes all tables, chairs, and linens for your day-a huge perk! Don’t forget to consider logistics like accessibility, parking, and accommodations for out-of-town guests. 💡 Pro Tip: Choosing a venue with built-in charm, such as a historic mansion, can save on décor costs while adding a unique atmosphere to your wedding.
Build Your Wedding Team
Having the right vendors can make a huge difference in your wedding experience, so it’s important to prioritize early bookings, as popular photographers, planners, and caterers are often reserved months or even years in advance. At Mistletoe, we have in house catering, florals, and bar service established, so it's truly a one stop shop here! Trusted venues can be a great resource for vendor recommendations, as they often have preferred lists of professionals who know the space well. Be sure to communicate your budget and aesthetic clearly to help your vendors bring your vision to life. 💡 Pro Tip: Establish a timeline early to ensure seamless coordination among all your vendors.
Don't Forget to Celebrate!
Planning a wedding is a journey-don't let it steal your joy. 💡 Pro Tip: Consider a pre-wedding getaway or mini-moon to refresh and reconnect before the big day.
Starting with these steps will set you up for a smooth and enjoyable planning process. Remember, this is your day, so focus on what makes you and your partner happy. Happy Planning!
As always, we would love to earn your trust and host your wedding. We are currently booking 2025 and 2026. Please, give us a call at 256-329-3717 to book a venue tour, or click here and fill out the form and we will reach out to you.
Mistletoe Bough is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
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