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Congratulations on your engagement! The journey to your big day is filled with excitement, anticipation, and, let’s be honest — a lot of planning. Here at BRICK, we understand how important it is to get everything just right, which is why we offer in-house planning services to help you every step of the way. From finding the perfect venue to finalizing the tiniest details, we’ve got you covered.
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but with the right checklist, you can keep everything on track. Here’s our ultimate engagement checklist to help San Diego couples get ready for their special day.
BRICK’s Ultimate Engagement Checklist
Book a Venue
One of the first steps in your wedding planning journey is securing your venue. San Diego offers a variety of stunning locations, but they can book up quickly. Ensure you find a spot that aligns with your vision and accommodates your guest list. For a more detailed timeline about when to book your San Diego wedding venue, check out our ‘How Soon Do I Need to Book my San Diego Wedding’ blog post.
Hire a Wedding Planner
Even if you’re planning to DIY your decor, a wedding planner can help alleviate stress and keep everything on schedule. Our team at 828 Planning specializes in creating seamless events tailored to your needs. We can handle everything from vendor coordination to day-of logistics to design and more.
Choose a Date
Select a wedding date that works for you, your partner, and key guests. Consider the season and local events in San Diego that might impact your choice. Spring and Fall are particularly beautiful times in our city, with mild weather perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
Create a Budget
Establishing a budget early on will guide many of your decisions. Include categories for venue, catering, attire, photography, and entertainment. Of course, don’t forget to account for unexpected expenses that might pop up along the way.
Book a Photographer
Capture the memories of your engagement and wedding day by booking a professional photographer. San Diego has a plethora of talented photographers who can help document your love story. Schedule an engagement shoot to get comfortable in front of the camera, and use the photos for your save-the-dates, or even day-of wedding decor.
Draft a Guest List
Start drafting your guest list to get an idea of the number of people you’ll be hosting. This will help you choose the right venue and caterer. Be prepared for changes and have a B-list in case some guests can’t make it.
Send Save-the-Dates
Once you’ve nailed down your date and venue, send out save-the-date cards to your guests. This gives them ample time to plan and make travel arrangements if necessary.
Choose Your Wedding Party
Decide who you want standing by your side on your big day. Consider close friends and family who have been significant in your life. Be sure to ask them well in advance so they can prepare for their roles, and consider sending out a survey regarding costs and availability for pre-wedding activities.
Shop for Attire
Begin the search for your wedding attire early. San Diego has several wedding boutiques and tailor shops that offer a range of styles and price points. Don’t forget about the wedding party’s outfits, too!
Register for Gifts
Create a wedding registry to help guests choose the perfect gift for you. Include a variety of items at different price points. Many local San Diego stores offer registry services, so consider supporting local businesses.
Plan Your Honeymoon
Think about where you’d like to unwind after your wedding. Whether it’s a tropical getaway, a European adventure, or something more low-key, start planning early to secure the best deals and accommodations.
Book a Caterer
Food is a significant part of any celebration, and a big part of what your guests will remember. Look for local caterers and arrange tastings so you can sample their menu options. Consider including some San Diego specialties to give your guests a taste of the local flavor.
Hire a Florist
Flowers add beauty and elegance to your wedding. San Diego florists can create stunning arrangements that match your color scheme and theme. Schedule a consultation to discuss your vision and budget.
Arrange Transportation
Consider how you, your wedding party, and your guests will get to and from your venue. Whether it’s a classic car, limousine, or shuttle service, book transportation well in advance to ensure timeliness on the big day.
Send Invitations
About three months before your wedding, send out formal invitations. Include all necessary details like the date, time, location, dress code, and RSVP instructions.
Finalize the Ceremony Details
Work with your planner and officiant to plan the ceremony. Decide on the order of events, readings, and any special traditions you want to include. Make sure your wedding license is in order, and that your DJ is looped in on the timing for music.
Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials
Book trials for your hair and makeup to ensure you love your look. San Diego has many talented artists who can help you achieve the perfect style for your big day.
Plan Your Rehearsal Dinner
The night before the wedding, host a rehearsal dinner for your wedding party and close family. It’s a great way to thank everyone for their support throughout your relationship, and run through the ceremony one last time.
Confirm All Details with Vendors
A week or two before the wedding, confirm all details with your vendors. Make sure everyone has the correct timeline and knows where to be and when.
Ready to Plan Your Perfect San Diego Wedding?
At BRICK, we’re dedicated to making your wedding day as memorable and stress-free as possible. Our 828 Planning team is here to assist you with all your planning needs, ensuring every detail is perfect. Contact us today to start planning your dream wedding and book our stunning venue. Let’s make your special day unforgettable!
By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well on your way to planning a beautiful and seamless wedding in San Diego. Remember, our team at BRICK and 828 Planning is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us for personalized assistance and to secure your date at our venue. Happy planning!
