The team behind Ropewalk wedding venue, The Old Timber Store, are here to get you ready for your big day with their top organising tips…
You’re engaged = check. Now it’s time to turn your wedding vision into a reality and, naturally, a mix of emotions may be flooding in: stress; excitement; overwhelm; anxiety; confusion.
So, take (most of) the stress out of the big day with these five simple tips:
1. Set a budget
This can seem like such a limiting task, but to manage your expectations and keep yourself on track, it’s essential.
Often, though, people are opting for more intimate weddings, which is definitely in favour of that old wedding cheque. But it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you as a couple want – but also what is realistically possible.
You can save yourself some dosh by being open to weekday weddings or opting for an off-season celebration. Once you have broken down the costs, you can then set yourself a target date, which leads nicely onto the next few steps…
2. Find your venue
If budgeting makes your eyes roll, choosing a venue will do the opposite. Although you can feel spoil for choice (with so many wonderful spaces), it really is one of the most exciting parts of your engagement journey.
Choosing a venue is when whole process comes to life as you imagine yourself tying the knot. If you don’t know where to begin, you should look at directories where you can filter by type of place and based on location, style, number of guests, and more.
These days, there are a lot more non-traditional options available than there used to be, so you can really dive into that venue rabbit hole (with joy!).
But always, always organise a site visit before booking a venue, as this really gives you the full vibe.
3. Pick a date
This one is super simple, once you have broken down the costs, you can plan how long you need to save. Then, soon, one day will be the day.
A top tip, though, is try and be flexible with your date… there’s nothing more disappointing than being fixed on one date to find out your dream venue is not available. This is also why it can be useful to choose a venue first – so you can be flexible with when they are available, too.
4. Choose a theme
One of the most thrilling parts of organising a wedding is the Pinterest board of inspiration, filled with your wildest dreams for the big day.
Pinterest as a platform for wedding inspo is a must, from bouquet colours to photography poses and tablescapes, it’s somewhere you can have endless creative fun.
The beauty of your own wedding is that the style is totally your call. From gothic to boho, no aesthetic or palette is off the cards. Choose a theme that resonates with you, and one that you will be proud of when you adore over the wedding snaps for years to come.
5. The devil is in the details
As a wise person once said: “Little things make big things happen.” And the same applies for weddings!
Name placeholders, how your hair sits, the background to your photos, cake colours and flavours, and the vibe of the lighting, all count. Take the time to really envisage what you want here, or over there, or in this spot, and go through it one by one to minimise overwhelm in the run-up to the big day.
The little things really are the big things, make time for them.
And finally, remember the big day is all about you and your partner. Remind yourself of this when you get wrapped up in the nitty gritty. You can’t please everyone, so do what makes you happy.
@theoldtimberstore_se1 on Instagram
Ropewalk, Maltby Street, SE1 3PA
