Say “I do” to The Echo’s Top 10 wedding planning tips
Wedding season has started, with the Killeshin Hotel and Leisure Centre in Portlaoise staging its showcase this Sunday, January 28.
Planning a wedding isn’t rocket science however, there is a lot to do – and finding the perfect venue that matches your dreams for the day is key to planning a stress-free celebration.
Killeshin Hotel and Leisure Club
The Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, which takes just over one hour to reach from Dublin, is this Sunday showcasing its wedding room – which holds up to 200 guests.
The room will be set up on the day, with staff and the hotel’s wedding co-ordinator available to speak with couples and talk them through their wedding packages, which start at €44 pp.
Couples attending the showcase, which runs from 1pm to 5pm, are also in with the chance of winning a diamond engagement ring by Grace Diamonds worth €5,000.
The Osprey Hotel in Nass is holding its Wedding Fair on February 4 from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, with the Kildare-hotel offering “something different” for your big day.
To help couples with their planning, here’s The Echo’s Top 10 tips for your big day – which should help you survive and thrive in the build-up to your wedding!
Wedding planning tips
Money management: Plan only for the type of wedding you can afford. Accept what you’ve got to spend and always shop with this in mind.
Be true to who you are: Create your perfect wedding, not an international footballer’s dream day. Ensure your celebration truly reflects you, your values and your shared sense of style.
Be organised: It’s the key to successful and stress free wedding planning. Keep a diary, it will become your best friend.
Prioritise: Don’t waste time getting carried away with the detail of your day until you have put in place the key elements; where and when you’ll be married and how much you can spend.
Present a united front: Create your day together and present a united front to your families. Leave some room for family input – especially if they are contributing financially. But be sensitive to the desires and expectations of your families, respect their point of view and listen – even if you eventually reject their ideas (as people sometimes just like to be heard!).
Delegate: Behind every couple is a fabulous and efficient team, so delegate what you can to friends and family who have skills in areas you need help with.
Bridesmaids and groomsmen: Have a reliable best man and chief bridesmaid. If your closest friends are not competent, confident, reliable individuals, give them something else to do!
Hiring & firing: Do not hire anyone or anything until you have seen or sampled their wares. Get every detail in writing. Before signing a contract ask: “is this your best price?” And read the small print: are taxes and service charges included – if not, you need to budget for them.
Keep cool, calm and collected: Especially with your nearest and dearest. Don’t alienate anyone you’ll need later on.
Wedding free zones: Have wedding free zones in your home and wedding free evenings with your intended. Then you’ll remember why you are doing this.
Happy Wedding Planning!
