Your Wedding Planning Questions Answered

When I was engaged I had several moments of sheer joy admiring my shiny engagement ring, only to be interrupted by panic moments filled with questions of wedding planning – how much food do I need for the guest count, what should the guest count be, what if it rains, etc.  Does this sound like you at all?  We’ve got some common questions and answers laid out for you below.  So, read through, take a deep breath, and admire your shiny ring again!

What does an average wedding cost?

An average wedding in Georgia ranges from $20,000 – $35,000.  Your guest count is one of THE BIGGEST drivers of your budget (hint: the weddings for $20,000 did not have 200+ guests).  For more info on what goes into the budget, check out our post – Building Your Wedding Budget.

Who should I invite?

This can often be one of the most stressful parts of the initial planning.  It’s a joint effort between the couple and the families – you may not think about great Aunt Judy being there, but your mom keeps in regular contact with her and great Aunt Judy would be heartbroken to not be there and celebrate with you.  Determine the type of event you want – intimate or large celebration.  Explain to your families why you would like to go that way and then develop the list from there.

Find more info on Guest List Tips here!

Who lifts the veil?

Traditionally whoever walks the bride down and gives her away will lift the veil.  You can also leave the veil down throughout the ceremony and the groom can lift it before the first kiss.  It’s sweet either way! PS – you don’t have to wear a veil!

How long is a reception?

Typically about 4 hours. This gives you time for a cocktail hour (while you take photos), dinner, toasts, cake cutting, and dancing.  At Pleasant Union Farm – we provide 5 hours of event time from ceremony through send off which gives you plenty of time to spend with your guests.

Should we provide meals for vendors on wedding day?

For vendors that are there during the full event, yes, you should provide them with a meal.  Be sure to check your contract with the vendors also as they often give specifics on the meal and when they take a break for that meal. (Nobody wants to work with a hangry person!)

Who should be invited to the Rehearsal Dinner?

The rehearsal is to make sure everyone involved in the ceremony knows their role.  For rehearsal and dinner, this typically includes a bridal party, officiant, immediate family, flower girl and ring bearer.  It’s also common to include any family that has traveled from out of town to provide more time together.  Make sure you talk through the plan with whoever is paying for the dinner so everyone is on the same page.

Do we have to have favors for the guests?

If it’s not in the budget, this is an area you can eliminate.  Small (edible) favors are usually preferred – cookies to go, small candies.  A photo booth is also a great idea instead of traditional “favors” because it gives guests something to do during cocktail hour, provide additional photos for the couple and most provide a print out for the guests to take home with them.

You can also add a “treat” instead of a favor. Maybe a late night snack – fried pies, a donut truck, so many fun options!

When should we send out invitations?

Typically, you will send out invitations 6 – 8 weeks before the wedding.  This gives guests time to plan and to RSVP.

Who makes the speeches?

Traditionally, the father of the bride starts the toasts, followed by maid of honor and best man.  It’s always nice for the bride and groom to thank their guests for coming to celebrate with them. But remember, it’s your wedding. You aren’t required to have any speeches or toasts. And you can do them in any order that works for you, your family and friends.

Photos by Hillary Leah Photography