Wedding Planning Tips:

9 Tips to help you in 2024

Enjoy your wedding even more!

9 Tips to help you plan your wedding

Planning weddings are “a piece of cake” said no one EVER!

So you’re ready to tie the knot with the man or woman of your dreams. Now that the engagement buzz has worn off, the reality of all the planning begins. Wondering how to plan a wedding, or where to even start? 

Fortunately, Lethabo Estate, is in the business of making-your-dream-wedding-come-true. 

Our exclusive lodge is located on the Crocodile River Nature Reserve. We are approximately 50 kilometres outside of Pretoria in the province of Gauteng. Our venue is not only accessible for couples and guests in Pretoria but also for those in the greater Johannesburg region too. Situated a mere 10 km away from Lanseria International Airport we are conveniently positioned to receive wedding parties, family and friends from all over the country and abroad. 

With our extensive wedding industry expertise, we thought of putting together a few suggestions that might help make your journey down the aisle, a stress-free and joyful experience.

Wedding Planning Tips: 9 Tips to help you in 2021
  1. Create a To-Do ListWeddings have many moving parts such as – the ceremony, bridal party, bridal outfits, reception theme, food, drinks, entertainment, fashion, décor etc. The best way to keep it all under control is with a comprehensive to-do list.

     

  2. Prepare a Timeline – If possible, create a wedding timeline at least 12 months ahead. A timeline is a great way to structure your wedding to-do list and also allows you to monitor your progress. Speak to consultants or service providers for advice, it’s pointless setting random timeline dates that aren’t realistic.

     

  3. Set the Date – When deciding on that all-important date, a number of factors may influence your choice, such as –

     

    • Weather – Choose a season with minimum adverse weather conditions, especially if it’s an outdoor event. In Pretoria for example, our summers bring the heat but also the rain. In case of inclement weather, always have a contingency plan in place. Fortunately, Lethabo has indoor facilities should the weather not cooperate.
    • Venue Availability – If you have your heart set on a specific venue, you may need to change your date to accommodate their availability.
    • Affordability – Venue rates vary according to season, month, week and even days of the week. So if peak season cost is too steep, consider having it during off-peak or mid-week. Vendors may also offer lower prices or be willing to negotiate during off-peak seasons when business is slow.
  4. Type of Marriage CeremonyThe ceremony is the heart and soul of a wedding. It’s where couples exchange their vows, rings and pronounce their marriage. While most weddings signify the union of two people, not all ceremonies are performed in the same way. Couples should discuss and agree on a ceremony that is an authentic loving representation of themselves.

     

  5. BudgetWeddings can be costly affairs. To avoid disappointment, it is imperative that you and your partner discuss your finances to set a budget that you can stick to and afford. Create an excel spreadsheet for your expenditure, this will come in handy when trying to keep track of quotes, payments and of course your budget. When setting your budget to make allowance for any unexpected costs, this is generally between 10 % to 20% of the overall amount.

     

  6. GuestsThe all-important question is, how big of a wedding do you want? Compile a guest list based on your wedding size criteria. If you are working off a strict budget, then you may need to compromise on the number of guests. To prevent any complications, rather not select a venue before you know the number of invited guests.

     

  7. VenuesChoosing your wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during the planning process. Will it be at a hotel, or a wine estate? There are so many options to choose from, so do your research and take note of the following criteria –

     

    • Size – the area must be able to accommodate the number of guests invited. Lethabo is able to host intimate weddings for couples wanting a small private union or larger weddings for groups up to 120.
    • Style – Does the style fit in with your wedding theme? Whether they are formal or relaxed weddings, Lethabo can create any experience and style you desire.
    • Location – Think about the accessibility of your venue. If your wedding ceremony and reception is to be held at two different locations, make sure they are close to each other. If a large number of your guests are coming from far, consider choosing a venue that’s near an airport and is easily accessible by road. There should also be accommodation at or near your venue. Lethabo is accessible to all areas in and around Pretoria and is a short distance away from Lanseria International Airport. Our accommodations offer beautiful private romantic lodges for bridal couples, as well as self-catering units for family and friends with lots of nearby options at a neighbouring lodge.
    • Venue layout – check if it is able to accommodate all aspects of your wedding, for example, can you have your wedding ceremony there as well as your reception? It’s always best to view the space and discuss your ideas and options with the venue’s event coordinator.  Lethabo is able to host your marriage ceremony and reception too.  Enjoy posing for photographs at our exquisite lodge surrounded by nature’s mesmerizing beauty.
    • Rates – Inquire about the venue hire packages. Lethabo offers bespoke packages. Our wedding package can be tailored to suit every style, palate and budgetary need.
    • Catering – Inquire about their menus and bar services. Furthermore, find out if they have any restrictions, for example, must you use their in-house catering and bar facility?
    • Lighting and sound – Find out whether their infrastructure can handle additional lighting as well as speakers and sound equipment.
    • Parking – Is there sufficient and secure parking for your guests.
    • Extras – List the items included in the hiring cost, such as the audio visual equipment, chairs, tables, linens, waiters, bar staff, parking security etc.

    Lastly, look out for an all-inclusive wedding package. This package may offer additional extras at a competitive price.

     

  8. Type of Wedding ReceptionWhen envisioning your wedding function, do you see the diffused morning light fluttering through the trees while dancing to your wedding song or is it an elegantly set table glittering with glass and candle light whilst enjoying your dinner with guests? There are a variety of wedding receptions you can choose from such as –

     

    • Breakfast or brunch
    • Lunch
    • Afternoon tea
    • Champagne and cake
    • Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres
    • Dinner

    Chat to the venue manager for advice on these options and which one may suit your tastes and budget.

     

  9. Designate a Wedding Contact PersonSelect either a friend, family member, or someone from your wedding party to be the wedding day contact person. Brief them on the details of the wedding day itinerary and the small tasks you need them to do, such as, to be the point person for vendors, handle the gifts, pay staff tips etc.  This will reduce the pressure on the bridal couple, so they can relax and enjoy their wedding function.

We hope these tips have been helpful and wish you all the best with your wedding plans ahead.

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