As soon as a couple gets engaged, the first decision they will make is to set a date. Most couples will take one year to plan their ideal wedding. So many choices of venues, caterers, entertainment and photographers! By choosing their wedding venue first, the happy couple will have access to preferred vendors who work there frequently. These vendors know the nuances of the venue and will likely offer a small discount! If the couple is using a wedding planner, the planner works with these amazing local vendors and will make their planning process seamless. Once the venue and main vendors are in place, there will be plenty of time to think about smaller details such as favors and decor.
It is no different in the special events world, time is your best friend or your worst enemy. Special events are typically planned within a much shorter time frame. If it’s a fundraising gala for an organization, chances are the event will be held around the same time each year. For a brand new event, the organizers will need to take other local events into consideration. In our region, Fall is the most active Gala season, with up to 6 charity events in one month! This shorter planning period means vendors must be secured faster.
For some couples who are on a tight wedding budget or have a busy work schedule, they may plan their wedding 18 months (or longer!) in advance. Their vendors will have more availability the farther out they are booked.
On the other hand, a couple can still plan their wedding in under a year. They may have to compromise on their desired vendors, or possibly book their venue for a Friday or Sunday. It can definitely be done, depending on the time of year or location. Don’t procrastinate! Some things like ‘THE dress’ may take longer to be ready. Stay organized with a budget and guest list.
How does this all come together? At Rockin H Ranch, our weddings book many months in advance, and the special events will have more flexibility based on the
calendar. This makes our event schedule an amazing array of fun events……the ‘times’ of our clients’ lives!
