Congratulations on your engagement! Yes, it has happened and you are not dreaming. These next few months are going to be the most important and memorable months leading up to your big celebration. Enjoy the process, make sure you spend days leading to your big day with your family and loved ones. Let no worry trouble you or the tasks to plan a wedding daunt you. We have got you covered. Read on for the best tips to plan the best day in your life.

12 to 18 Months Before

• Create a vision board: Gather inspiration (colors, themes, traditions)
• Set a budget: Be realistic and prioritize what’s most important
• Draft a guest list: This will guide venue choices and budgeting
• Select a date and season: Consider auspicious dates and Melbourne weather
• Book your ceremony and reception venues: Popular venues book out quickly
• Research vendors: Photographers, videographers, caterers, decorators, etc – This is where you inquire with us for those amazing photographs.

9 to 12 Months Before

• Finalize vendors: Book the best ones fitting your style and budget
• Wedding attire: Start shopping for bride/groom outfits, and coordinate with bridal party – check out Paaro or Karegar for amazing bridal wears in melbourne
• Pre-wedding events: Plan Sangeet, Mehndi, Haldi if desired. For Mehndi check out: Fadziies Mehndi and Beauty or Ritesh Mehndi or Heena by Zeena
• Accommodation: Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests
• Invitations: Design and order save-the-dates. You can consider booking a prewedding shoot with us to help with photos for your save-the-dates

6 to 9 Months Before

• Finalize the menu: Include a diverse range of Indian delicacies
• Entertainment: Book DJ, live musicians, dancers – for DJ’s consider: Enigmatic Entertainment, DJ Ash
• Transportation: Plan transportation for guests and wedding party
• Wedding favors: Choose meaningful and memorable gifts
• Finalize decor concepts: Work with your decorator. Here are some of the best decors in Melbourne: Lettuce and Co, The Wedding Factor by Neha, Rupali’s Mandaps Melbourne
• Send out invitations: Give guests ample notice

3 to 6 Months Before

• Ceremony details: Work with your priest or officiant to finalize the ceremony
• Hair and makeup: Schedule trials, Here are some hair and makeup recommendations: Shakizee, Makeup by Imasha, Lajeen
• Cake selection: Choose your delicious showpiece
• Create your wedding website: Keep guests up-to-date

1 to 2 Months Before

• Arrange legal matters: Finalize marriage license requirements
• Rings: Ensure your wedding bands are ready
• Confirm with vendors: Double-check all details
• Seating Chart: Strategize seating arrangements
• Finalize playlist: Create the perfect dance floor mix

Wedding Week

• Welcome bags: Prepare for out-of-town guests
• Rehearsal dinner: Practice the ceremony flow
• Pack for honeymoon: Get ready for post-wedding relaxation
• Beauty appointments: Get pampered
• Delegate tasks: Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Important Considerations

Consider these popular options:

• Luxurious hotels: For upscale elegance (Crown Melbourne: https://www.crownmelbourne.com.au/, The Langham: https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/melbourne/, Park Hyatt: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/australia/park-hyatt-melbourne/melph)
• Gardens and wineries: For lush outdoor beauty (Yarra Valley, Werribee Mansion, Royal Botanical Gardens, Rippon Lea Estate)
• Modern Venues: Metropolis Events, Leonda by Yarra, Aerial.
• Catering: Create a feast of flavors! Look for caterers specializing in authentic Indian cuisine, offering a range of regional dishes.
• Decor: Go for vibrant colors, rich fabrics, and floral arrangements. Incorporate traditional elements like marigolds, mandaps, and rangoli designs.
• Entertainment: Keep guests on their feet! Combine a talented DJ with traditional dhol players and perhaps some Bollywood dancers.

• Cultural Sensitivity: If your partner or guests are from a different background, be mindful and incorporate aspects of their culture as well.

Remember: Relax and enjoy the process! Your wedding should be a beautiful reflection of your love and the joining of your families