Planning a Wedding

Planning a wedding in a small vineyard is a delightful choice for couples seeking an intimate celebration surrounded by the picturesque beauty of nature. The combination of a charming vineyard setting, elegant wines, and an intimate gathering of loved ones creates a truly magical and memorable wedding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through every step of planning a small wedding in a small vineyard, from initial considerations and budgeting to venue selection, guest management, and creating a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Here is a check list you can use to start the Process: SAVE THIS LINK  

12 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Set a Budget:

• Start by discussing your budget with your partner and any family members contributing.
• Determine your priorities and allocate funds accordingly.

    2. Create a Guest List:

• Decide how many guests you want to invite.
• Begin compiling a list of potential invitees.
• Consider your venue's capacity while making this list.

    3. Choose a Date and Venue:

• Select a few potential wedding dates that work for you and your closest family and friends.
• Research and visit potential venues. Consider locations that align with the casual theme, just like Gavilan Hills Vineyard.
• Book your venue as soon as you find the perfect fit and secure your wedding date.

    4. Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional):

• If you'd like assistance with the planning process, consider hiring a wedding planner.
• Discuss your vision and budget with them and choose someone you feel comfortable with.
• Ask the Venue, some venues offer limited Wedding Planner assitance.

10 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Choose Your Wedding Party:

• Select your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any other important members of your wedding party.
• Ask them if they're willing to be a part of your special day.

    2. Research and Book Vendors:

• Start looking for vendors such as photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment.
• Read reviews, get quotes, and book vendors that align with your budget and vision.
• Check with the Venue, most venues will have vendors they have worked with in the past.

8 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Select Your Wedding Attire:

• Begin shopping for your wedding attire, including your dress, shoes, and accessories.
• Grooms should also look for their attire or decide whether they will rent or buy.

    2. Plan the Ceremony and Reception:

• Work on the ceremony and reception details. Decide on the flow, readings, music, and any special rituals.
• Determine how you want to decorate your ceremony and reception spaces.

6 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Send Save the Dates:

• Send out save-the-date cards to inform your guests about the wedding date and location.

    2. Order Invitations:

• Choose and order your wedding invitations. Consider a casual and fun design that matches your theme.

    3. Plan the Menu:

• Discuss your food preferences and menu options with your caterer.
• Plan a tasting to finalize the menu.

4 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Book Accommodations:

• Reserve hotel rooms or other accommodations for out-of-town guests.
• Ensure they know about any special rates you've negotiated.

    2. Choose Wedding Rings:

• Shop for and purchase your wedding rings.

    3. Plan Entertainment:

• Book a DJ or band for the reception and discuss your music preferences.
• Create a list of songs you want to be played or excluded.

3 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Finalize Details:

• Review all vendor contracts and confirm details like timelines, setup, and responsibilities.
• Make any necessary changes or adjustments.

    2. Send Invitations:

• Mail out your wedding invitations with RSVP instructions.

    3. Arrange Transportation:

• If needed, book transportation for the wedding party and guests between venues.

    4. Create a Seating Plan:

• Work on the seating arrangement for the reception, taking into account your guest list and any special considerations.

2 Months Before the Wedding:

    1. Obtain Marriage License:

• Research and obtain the necessary marriage license.
• Check the waiting period and any required documents.

    2. Purchase Favors and Decorations:

• Buy wedding favors and decorations. Keep the casual theme in mind when making choices.

    3. Final Dress Fitting:

• Attend your final dress fitting to ensure it fits perfectly.

1 Month Before the Wedding:

    1. Confirm Details:

• Reach out to all vendors and reconfirm details, including delivery and setup times.

    2. Plan the Rehearsal Dinner:

• Arrange and plan the rehearsal dinner with your wedding party.

    3. Get Marriage License:

• Obtain your marriage license and ensure it's ready for the big day.

2 Weeks Before the Wedding:

    1. Pack for Your Honeymoon:

• Start packing for your honeymoon if you're leaving right after the wedding.

    2. Finalize the Timeline:

• Create a detailed timeline for your wedding day, including key events and times.

1 Week Before the Wedding:

    1. Delegate Responsibilities:

• Assign specific tasks to reliable friends or family members to ensure a smooth wedding day.

    2. Confirm Final Headcount:

• Confirm the final guest count with your caterer and adjust the seating plan if necessary.

    3. Wedding Rehearsal:

• Hold a wedding rehearsal to practice the ceremony and ensure everyone knows their role.

1 Day Before the Wedding:

    1. Relax and Rehearse:

• Take some time for yourself to relax and destress.
• Attend your rehearsal dinner in the evening and enjoy the company of your loved ones.

On the Wedding Day:

    1. Get Ready:

• Begin your wedding day by getting ready with your bridal party.
• Take some time to relax and enjoy the moment.

    2. Ceremony:

• Get married! Enjoy your beautiful and casual ceremony.

    3. Reception:

• Celebrate with your guests at the reception. Dance, eat, and enjoy the festivities.

    4. Say Goodbye:

• Bid farewell to your guests and head off to your honeymoon or wedding night accommodations.

After the Wedding:

    1. Send Thank-You Notes:

• Write and send thank-you notes to your guests and vendors to express your gratitude.

    2. Handle Legal Matters:

• Ensure all legal matters, such as changing your name or updating your marital status, are addressed.

    3. Preserve Memories:

• Consider preserving your wedding gown, bouquet, and other mementos.

    4. Plan Your Honeymoon:

• Enjoy your honeymoon as a married couple and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Creating a detailed timeline for your wedding will help ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing you to relax and enjoy this special day. While this guide provides a comprehensive plan, remember that every wedding is unique, and you can adjust the timeline to fit your specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the most important thing is to celebrate your love and create lasting memories with your family and friends.