Tips for Planning the Perfect Wedding

1. Save the date

It’s easy to get swept up in all the excitement and start scouting venues for the big day. One of the first things you should do after deciding to get married is to pick your date. Spend a few moments to think about whether the date itself holds a special meaning for you and your partner.

Choosing your day requires some considerations you’ll want to keep in mind. It could be that it falls on a weekend or during a significant holiday or event, which could lead to an issue in booking. Pick out several dates for greater flexibility and to minimise any disappointment.

2. Brainstorm your budget

Crunching the numbers may not be the most exciting part of wedding planning, but it’s crucial to the rest of the planning process. With a number in mind, you can better envision the type of wedding you want. Make notes on all the details you desire to have in your wedding, as these elements and the number of guests will most impact your budget. You can determine your budget if you have an idea of everything involved.

Extra Tip: Look out for any ‘little’ additional extras that might crop up. It can be easy to forget the cost for a dress alteration, the insurance for a car or venue. They all add up and can cause you to exceed your wedding budget.

3. The guest list

From the venue and catering to seating plan and travel arrangements, the guest list is the inspiration for many of the decisions you will be making. It is also one of the toughest to create.

Start with close family, loved ones, and VIP guests. These are non-negotiable people who should be part of your special day. Then work your way out from there. Think about how much a person means to your life and you to theirs. Remember, don’t feel obliged to invite everyone. It is your day, so make it personal.

4. Find your theme

Setting a theme for your wedding not only invites you to express yourselves as a couple, but also provides you and vendors with a clear direction on the aesthetic choices you like. Start by collecting inspiration and ideas that interest and captivate you – bridal websites and social media platforms (e.g. Instagram, Pinterest) are excellent sources of inspiration.

From the invites to the flower arrangements, consider how each element complements your theme and emphasises your unique love story.

5. Scouting venues

The venue is a key priority on the wedding checklist for many couples. It is common for locations to be booked several months in advance, so it’s best to start your search early. With your partner, come up with a checklist of what facilities your perfect wedding venue would have, and which features are most important. Compile a list of different venues that fit the criteria – keep in mind your wedding planning timeline and desired dates.

Visit each venue to get a feel for the space and imagine how it fits with your desired theme. Take plenty of videos and pictures to remind you of the surroundings when you compare your options. Take note of details such as layout, acoustics, restrooms, ease of access, and parking. Rate each venue against your checklist and your dates to decide where to hold the proceedings.

6. Visit your vendors

Putting together a wedding is a team sport and requires the skills and experience of vendors to help you achieve your goals. Try to meet up with vendors rather than communicate with them virtually over texts or a video call. Meeting a baker or florist in person will give you a better sense of who you're working with and allow you to view their creations in person. Always go with your spouse, a close friend, or a wedding party member, so you have a trusted second opinion.

7. Picture great photography

Despite the months of preparation and planning, weddings have a way of going by in a flash, which is why a great photographer is important for capturing and documenting all the beautiful moments you don’t want to miss. These photographs will become memories to be cherished for years to come. Take the time to look over portfolios and find someone who not only matches your budget but also the style and theme of your ceremony.

8. Hashtag the moment

The official photographer will most likely not be the only snapper at your wedding. In fact, you could potentially have hundreds if you include the pictures taken by guests with their phones. Create your own unique wedding day hashtag and ask guests to tag all the photos they upload to social media so you can easily find the ones you love and add them to your memories.

9. Prioritise self-care

All your efforts to organise your big day can be exhausting, and it’s essential to make time for self-care to prevent burnout. A simple walk, a nice meal, or a bike ride can distract you from the planning and help clear your mind. For a complete treat, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment at Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands, which offers a selection of holistic experiences to revitalise and recharge your senses.

10. Get a helping hand

Though it’s you and your partner’s big day, organizing a wedding requires a group effort. Don’t be afraid to involve friends and family in the planning process, especially your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Assign them simple tasks to take some weight off your shoulders, and you’re free to tackle the bigger challenges.

For ease of mind, consider working with a wedding planner. These experienced pros know what to expect and have relationships with vendors, ensuring a smoother experience.

With your wedding planning checklist settled, it’s time to celebrate your big day. For a truly stress-free experience, shorten your wedding to-do list and engage the help of the wedding specialists at Marina Bay Sands. Whether your dream day is a grand, whimsical fairytale or an intimate gathering of your closest friends and family, you can expect nothing short of extraordinary.

Choose from a variety of stunning venues and pictorial backdrops that will enchant you with a lifetime of precious memories. Our Garden Walk is a dreamy enclave with impressive vistas, while the Grand Ballrooms are ideal for large, opulent affairs. SkyPark Observation Deck will wow your guests with stunning panoramic views of the city throughout the ceremony.

Delight everyone in attendance with a decadent feast filled with scrumptious menu options with our Marina Bay Sands wedding package, and complete the celebrations with a honeymoon in a luxury suite.