A wedding is one of the most important days in your life.
For this reason, you’d want people close to you to come to celebrate with you as you exchange your vows.
But, How Do You Plan a Wedding When the Families Live in Different States?
It is much easier to have a wedding in the state you live in. But since some people will have to travel, make sure that you try and cut down the wedding expenses.
Another approach is creating a guest list, deciding where many guests live, and hosting the wedding there. Alternatively, consider a central spot where your guests can easily assess it.
Another option is the person paying for the wedding. For instance, if your parents are hosting the wedding, it makes sense to have it where they reside.
More on Planning the Wedding with Families in Different States
Remember that no matter which option you choose, not all guests will make it to your wedding.
Even in instances where your invites are located in one location, not all of them come. So, be prepared for this.
You should choose a place based on what works for you, regardless of whether most of your guests will be present.
When planning, think about what you want and your budget, then go on from there.
Can You Plan for Two Weddings To Accommodate Extended Family Members?
Two weddings will also make sense if you have families in different states.
Remember that weddings are a celebration of your love life and the start of your happily ever after.
Therefore, it is natural that both the bride and the groom would want their closest families and friends to be present.
But in these challenging economic times, it just might not be possible.
In such cases, some people decide to have their wedding in two different locations.
However, this would need a heavy budget and so many preparations.
Two Things To Know When Planning Two Weddings
Planning one wedding is already challenging.
So, you cannot expect anything different planning two weddings.
But here are the things to have in mind to help make the process easy:
1. Get All The Help You Can
Both weddings need the same preparation, which is a good thing as you already have experience planning the first.
If you have the weddings in the same month, you will need to work with a wedding planner and prepare the second wedding remotely.
But the preparations for both weddings will go through the same process.
You will need a venue, photographer, caterer, rehearsals, invitations, and other things you can’t miss at a wedding.
You can request help from both families, especially when it comes to finding local services.
2. Prepare For A Huge Budget
Even a small wedding costs several dollars, which is why you should not overlook your finances when planning for two weddings.
You will need two budgets based on your guest list and the ceremonies’ size.
But remember, unexpected costs might still occur even with good planning. In that case, you can ask for help from the families.
But there are several ways you can save on the second wedding.
For instance, you can use the same décor you used on your first wedding on your second wedding.
That way, you won’t have to buy these things twice.
After your first wedding, store the décor and props safely and ship them when the time for your second wedding comes.
When making a budget, please be realistic from the start. Set what you know is comfortable for you and your guests. That way, you will save a lot of stress.
Three DIY Wedding Planning Tips
Planning a wedding can be stressful. For this reason, some couples hire a professional planner to help manage their plans.
But even then, you will still be involved in the majority of your responsibilities.
The main thing to remember is to remain organized.
That way, you will keep things on track even when faced with hard decisions, lists, and deadlines.
Additionally, ensure that you give yourself time (you will need more time planning two weddings). That said, here are some tips to help you out:
1. Fantasize About It
You’ve already discussed the weddings you like with your partner.
Maybe you don’t love a formal wedding or prefer a beach ceremony and a chilled reception.
Now you know which style you love, the next is to figure out how you want your wedding to look.
Think about the size of the gathering, the theme, the location, and the décor.
You don’t have to decide on these aspects right away. Most people change their minds as time goes by.
2. Determine Your Budget
Weddings can be costly, especially when you don’t have a plan for managing your finances.
Yes, budgeting is stressful, but see it like a map to help you and your team make wise choices.
If other people are contributing, make sure they are clear on how much everyone plans to give you so that you can factor that into your budget.
Then determine the money you both have in your savings and what percentage you are willing to spend towards your wedding.
It’s also wise that you begin saving early. Some people decide to cut down their monthly spending and save that money.
But you need to have a figure which depends on your wedding date. After, add all these numbers to have an estimate of your budget.
3. Have Someone As A Backup
When planning a wedding, you need to understand that you and your partner cannot do everything alone.
You need help with the many wedding details and intricacies. So, always call for support when you need it.
That support could be
- a wedding planner
- a wedding coordinator
- family
- friends
Final Thoughts
It is possible to plan two weddings in different locations if your families are in different states.
It’s going to be a lot of work but doable, and in the end, both your families will be present to celebrate with you.
Otherwise, you can choose a location you are comfortable with, invite both your families, and appreciate those who will come and those who won’t as well. And start your marriage happily.
References
https://www.wedding-ideas-guide.com/planning-a-wedding-in-two-different-states.html