How to Organise Your Dream Wedding

Planning your dream wedding is one of the most exciting and emotional journeys you’ll ever take—but it’s not without its challenges. With so many moving parts to organise, from venues and guest lists to catering and stationery, the process can easily become overwhelming. But with clear communication, careful budgeting, and a solid plan, you can create a celebration that’s both unforgettable and uniquely yours.

Before diving into logistics, sit down with your partner and have an honest conversation about what a “dream wedding” looks like for each of you. Whether you picture a traditional church ceremony or a barefoot beach wedding, getting on the same page early is key. You’ll need to agree on the basics: size, style, location, and overall budget.

The first real decision you’ll need to make is choosing your wedding date. This determines everything else—from venue availability to supplier bookings. Consider the time of year, weather conditions, and any special dates that might hold meaning for you as a couple.

Once your date is locked in, don’t delay in sending out save the date cards. These give your guests plenty of notice, especially important for summer weddings or destination celebrations.

Do you want a classic religious ceremony or a more relaxed civil or outdoor wedding? This will influence both your venue and how your day is structured.

Many couples choose to marry near where one or both grew up, while others opt for a venue halfway between two hometowns to accommodate both families. Alternatively, getting married abroad has become increasingly popular—particularly for couples looking for an intimate celebration with fewer guests and a built-in honeymoon vibe.

Tip: If you marry abroad, you can always host a separate celebration back home for guests who couldn’t attend the ceremony.

Dream weddings don’t have to come with a nightmare price tag. Set a realistic budget early on, and prioritise the elements that matter most to you—whether that’s food, the dress, or photography. Always factor in a buffer for unexpected costs, and remember: starting married life debt-free is far more romantic than splurging on one day.

Your wedding stationery offers the first glimpse of your big day’s vibe. From save the dates and invitations to RSVPs, on-the-day stationery, and thank you cards, each piece plays a role in the story of your celebration.

Choose designs that reflect your theme, personality, and level of formality—whether rustic and relaxed or modern and minimalist. Sending cohesive, well-designed stationery sets a polished tone from the outset.

Creating a guest list can be one of the trickiest parts of wedding planning. Start with your non-negotiables (parents, siblings, best friends) and build from there. If you’re working with a smaller budget or limited venue capacity, don’t be afraid to be selective. Remember, this is your day—not an obligation to invite distant acquaintances.

Food is often a highlight of any wedding celebration, and there are many styles to consider:

• Sit-down meal: Traditional and formal, ideal for structured weddings.

• Buffet or food stations: More casual and encourages mingling.

• Street food or grazing tables: Perfect for quirky or outdoor weddings.

Choose a style that reflects your personalities, your venue, and your guests' preferences.

Use a wedding planning checklist or digital planning tool to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Break your planning down into manageable stages—date, venue, guest list, invitations, suppliers, etc.—and delegate wherever possible. Don't forget to build in moments to enjoy the process. It’s your love story, after all.

Your dream wedding doesn’t need to follow a template. Whether you go big or keep it small, traditional or contemporary, what matters most is that it’s a day that celebrates you as a couple. With some thoughtful planning, open communication, and a touch of creativity, you can make it truly unforgettable.