How to Plan An Intimate Wedding
First, let me say... CONGRATULATIONS! You are now engaged and planning one of the happiest moments in your life. However, we know that planning an intimate wedding in a short amount of time can be both exhilarating and manageable with the right approach. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pull off the wedding of your dreams in just a few weeks:
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Set Your Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your wedding. With a short timeline, it's crucial to allocate your budget wisely and prioritize essential expenses.
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Choose a Date and Venue: Flexibility is key when planning a last-minute wedding. Look for available dates at local venues, considering both indoor and outdoor options based upon the season and your preferences.
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Finalize the Guest List: Keep your guest list small for an intimate affair. Invite only your closest family and friends to share in your special day, ensuring you can accommodate everyone comfortably at your chosen venue.
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Select Vendors Efficiently: Streamline your vendor selection process by focusing on essential services such as catering, photography, and officiating. Opt for vendors who have availability on your chosen date and can work within your timeframe.
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Choose Attire and Accessories: Shop for wedding attire promptly to allow time for alterations if needed. Consider off-the-rack options or rental services to expedite the process. Don't forget to accessorize with rings, shoes, and any other desired accents.
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Design Your Decor: Hire us! Now & Forever Flower Boutique can design your wedding from the florals to the linen and drapes, and everything in between. Allow us to take the stress off of you and use our expertise and resources to design a beautiful and memorable wedding for you to reminisce.
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Plan the Ceremony and Reception: Work with your officiant to create a meaningful ceremony script that resonates with you. Coordinate with your venue and caterer to plan the reception timeline, menu, and any special requests.
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Handle Legalities: Obtain your marriage license well in advance and ensure all necessary paperwork is in order. Familiarize yourself with local marriage laws and requirements to avoid any last-minute complications. Most counties in Michigan requires the following:
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You must apply for your marriage license in the county you reside in.
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If BOTH parties are non-residents of Michigan, the applicants must apply in the county in which the marriage is to be performed
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Present must provide a valid driver's license or state identification to show proof of residency.
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If only one person is applying they must show their I. D. along with their birth certificate or passport and their spouses birth certificate or passport.
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Both individuals are required to include their Social Security Numbers on their application
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A spouse who intends to change their name after marriage must sign and print all three documents with the name they will be using after the wedding.
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There is an application fee ranging from $20-$30
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There is a three-day waiting period after applying before the license may be issued and used. A marriage license is void unless the marriage is solemnized within 33 days from the date of application.
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Some Counties allow you to waive the waiting period for an extra fee.
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Communicate Details to Guests: Send out invitations or digital announcements promptly, providing guests with essential information about the date, time, location, and any special instructions.
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Stay Organized and Flexible: Utilize checklists and timelines to stay organized throughout the planning process. Be prepared to adapt and make decisions quickly, prioritizing what matters most to your as a couple.
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Hire a Wedding Planner/Coordinator. Yes, there is a difference. A Wedding Planner is a bit more hands on with the planning process of your wedding, while a Wedding Coordinator typically only begins working on your wedding in the prior weeks/days to your wedding.
Again, congratulations on your engagement! We hope this is short guideline will be of some assistance. If you would like to hire us for your upcoming wedding, start here with filling out our Inquiry Form.
Happy Wedding Planning!!
-Now & Forever