1. Do I invite someone that I don’t see often but I have on social media?

The simple answer is ‘no’ but of course every circumstance is different. At the end of the day, weddings are supposed to be full of your closest friends and family; people that truly want to celebrate with you! Anyone who doesn’t fit within that category does not need to be invited. Nobody expects you to invite all of your Facebook friends.

2. How soon is too soon to start planning?

This can be different for everyone depending on how much time you’ve got. If you’re talking months then get started as soon as you can. If you’ve got well over a year then you can relax a little more, but don’t leave it too long. Venues, hairdressers, makeup artists and a lot of other wedding vendors get booked out well in advance so get in contact and at the very least secure a date so that you’re not left high and dry last minute.

3. Is it tacky to ask for money not gifts?

Some people find it tacky, some people find it perfectly normal, but let’s face it, if the money is what you need then just ask, it’s really no big deal.

Image from Kylie and Dillan’s wedding. Photography by Filmography.

4. How much do I have to pay for when it comes to bridesmaids?

There is no concrete answer about whether the bride is meant to pay for all the expenses of her bridesmaids, it really depends on the relationship and circumstance. If you have expensive taste it can be a problem because your bridesmaids might not have the financial capacity to go along with this. If however you are willing to pick a cost-efficient dress that all your bridesmaids are happy with then it’s fine to ask that they pay for it themselves. Perhaps you can negotiate so that you pay for accessories or hair and makeup to make things fair.

5. Can I make a toast too?

Definitely! Although it is not as traditional as a groom making a speech, a bride can always say a few words to thank her guests, family and, of course, her husband; just keep it short and sweet.

6. Is it too up tight to ask for no pictures on social media until the reception?

It’s perfectly fine to ask your guests to refrain from putting pictures online until after the reception has started. You don’t want to ruin the element of surprise for guests who didn’t get a chance to attend your ceremony.

7. Should my parents and in laws be allowed to invite people too?

Parents can get really excited when it comes to their children’s weddings, but it’s important that they don’t get too carried away and start inviting their entire book club. Let them invite a few of their close friends, especially if they are contributing a hefty amount to the wedding budget, just make sure you set boundaries. Once you know what the capacity of your venue is like, give your parents/in-laws a rough number of guests they can invite and ask them to give you a list.

Above and main image from Nadhisha and Han’s wedding. Photography by Hilary Cam Photography.