1. Celebrate with an Engagement Party
Before the whirlwind of wedding planning begins, take a moment to enjoy your engagement. Hosting an engagement party is a wonderful way to celebrate this exciting time with friends and family. Discuss hosting your post proposal engagement at The Vicarage, before you start planning your vows!
2. Listing Your Priorities
Once the engagement party is over, it’s time to focus on what really matters for your wedding day. Listing your top priorities will help keep you on track as you navigate the planning process. Do you and your partner envision a grand celebration with lots of guests, or a more intimate gathering with close family and friends? Do you want a focus on amazing food, live entertainment, or a stunning backdrop for your photos? Knowing what’s most important to you will help guide your decisions and ensure your day reflects what truly matters to you both. With completely bespoke packages tailored to any budget, The Vicarage is the perfect venue for working towards your wedding priorities.
3. Crafting Your Guest List
One of the first practical steps in wedding planning is creating your guest list. This can be tricky—balancing who you’d love to invite with the capacity of your venue and your budget. Start by writing down everyone you want to invite, then review it with your partner to narrow it down. The Vicarage in Holmes Chapel offers an ideal space for both intimate weddings and larger celebrations, so you’ll have plenty of flexibility depending on your preferences. Once your list is finalised, you’ll be one step closer to making your vision come to life.
4. Book Your Venue Early
The Vicarage is a highly sought-after Grade II listed venue, so booking early is key. The venue’s elegant charm, tranquil surroundings, and versatile spaces make it a perfect location for couples looking for a stylish and memorable setting. Be sure to inquire about what’s included in your venue booking, such as catering, decoration options, and any additional services to help you plan with ease.
5. Send Out Save the Dates
Once your venue is booked, it’s time to inform your guests! Sending out save-the-date cards is a great way to ensure everyone marks your wedding day in their calendars. These cards should include the wedding date, venue (The Vicarage in Holmes Chapel), and a note that more details will follow. Aim to send out save-the-dates about six to nine months in advance to give your guests plenty of time to plan.
6. Choose Your Wedding Photography
Your wedding photos will be treasured memories for years to come, so selecting the right photographer is crucial. The Vicarage offers a stunning backdrop for your photos. Take your time reviewing photographers’ portfolios to find someone whose style aligns with your vision—whether you prefer traditional posed shots, candid moments, or a mix of both. Discuss with your photographer what kind of shots you want and if they are familiar with The Vicarage’s layout to capture the best angles of the venue.
7. Think About Your Wedding Style and Theme
Next, think about your wedding style and theme. The Vicarage in Holmes Chapel is an incredibly versatile venue that can host a range of styles, from rustic and vintage to elegant and sophisticated. Whether you envision a garden wedding with floral arrangements and greenery or a classic celebration with luxurious touches, your theme will set the tone for the entire day. Consider your colour palette, floral arrangements, table settings, and décor, and work with your wedding planner and florists to bring your ideas to life.
8. Plan the Details – Wedding Dress, Catering, and Entertainment
Now that your major decisions are made, it’s time to focus on the finer details. Shopping for your wedding dress should be a fun and memorable experience, so take your time finding the perfect gown. Think about how you want your hair and makeup to look, and book your beauty team well in advance.
When it comes to food, The Vicarage offers a range of catering options to suit your tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a formal plated dinner, a buffet, or something more casual, make sure the food reflects your style and complements the atmosphere you want to create.
Entertainment is another essential part of the wedding experience. Whether you’re hiring a live band, a DJ, or something unique like a string quartet, be sure to choose entertainment that suits your wedding’s vibe and keeps your guests dancing all night long.
9. Stay Organised with a Timeline
As the wedding day approaches, staying organized becomes more important than ever. Create a wedding timeline to keep track of everything, from your dress fittings to finalizing the seating plan. Breaking tasks down into smaller chunks with deadlines can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. If you’re finding the planning process too much to handle, consider hiring a wedding planner to help coordinate all the moving parts.
10. Enjoy the Process
Wedding planning is an exciting journey, but it’s also a time to enjoy with your partner. While the details matter, remember that the ultimate goal is to celebrate your love with your closest family and friends. Don’t forget to take moments to relax, laugh, and savour the excitement of planning your big day together.
