Edinburgh is a magical city with its historic charm and stunning scenery, making it a perfect location for your dream wedding. However, to ensure your day goes off without a hitch, it’s important to get organised early on. Here are the key things you need to organise first when planning a wedding in Edinburgh.
1. Start with the Big Conversations
Before diving into any wedding planning, you and your partner need to have the big conversations. Discuss your budget, guest list, and preferred wedding location early to avoid future misunderstandings. These decisions will shape the rest of your planning. If possible, consider hiring a wedding planner. Edinburgh is home to many talented planners who can help you manage suppliers, venues, and more, while keeping your stress levels in check. These professionals are particularly helpful if you’re organising a destination wedding or have a busy schedule.
2. Create a Wedding Checklist
Staying organised is crucial, and the best way to keep on top of everything is by creating a wedding checklist. This should cover everything from booking a venue to sending out invites and arranging catering. You can either use a digital wedding checklist or a personalised tool like a wedding website. Not only does a checklist help you keep track of tasks, but it also ensures you don’t forget the little details like scheduling dress fittings or finalising transport.
3. Set a Realistic Budget
Edinburgh can offer a variety of wedding experiences, from grand castles to intimate urban settings, but managing costs can be tricky. Start by establishing a realistic budget that includes a contingency for unexpected expenses. Early on, decide where you want to allocate the bulk of your funds—whether that’s the venue, catering, or entertainment. It’s also worth researching local suppliers in Edinburgh to get an idea of pricing. Remember to keep track of spending with a budget tracker or app, and set aside around 10% of your total for unforeseen costs.
4. Find Your Dream Venue
Edinburgh is blessed with a variety of beautiful wedding venues, whether you dream of tying the knot in a castle, a historic manor, or a sleek modern venue. Start researching venues early, as popular spots can book up far in advance. Visit a few locations to get a feel for the atmosphere and logistics. Don’t forget to consider the practicalities like guest accommodation, catering options, and proximity to transport links.
5. Announce Your Wedding
Once you’ve set your date and locked down your venue, it’s time to make the big announcement! Share the exciting news with friends and family by sending out save-the-dates or announcing it on your wedding website. This is also a good time to consider whether you’ll be sending physical or digital invitations. Digital options are eco-friendly and cost-effective, and they can help you manage RSVPs efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Organising a wedding in Edinburgh is an exciting journey. From the picturesque venues to the bustling city energy, the location will add a unique flair to your big day. By tackling the big conversations, staying organised with a wedding checklist, managing your budget, and booking a venue early, you’ll be well on your way to creating your dream wedding in this historic city.
