As excitement builds and the love in your heart soars, it’s time to dive into the whirlwind of wedding planning. With countless details to consider and choices to be made, it’s natural to feel a mix of enthusiasm and overwhelm. To help you navigate this joyous path, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide highlighting 12 of the biggest wedding decisions you’ll need to make before your big day. From selecting the perfect venue to curating a delectable menu and everything in between, let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure together, ensuring your wedding becomes a cherished masterpiece of love and celebration.

12 of the Biggest Wedding Decisions You Need to Make Before Your Big Day

1. The Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings Vs. Traditional Wedding in 2023

Photo by Maria Orlova on Unsplash

You’ve found your perfect match, and now it’s time to plan the wedding of your dreams. As you embark on this exciting journey, you’re faced with a crucial decision: should you opt for a destination wedding, whisking yourselves and your loved ones away to a romantic locale, or keep it local and celebrate in familiar surroundings? Both options have their merits and drawbacks, so let’s delve into the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your desires.

The Pros of Destination Weddings

• Extended Celebration – More time to enjoy with friends and family.
• Unique Experience – Memorable and distinct wedding setting.
• Exotic Backdrops and Romantic Vibes – Picturesque and romantic locations.
• Intimate Affair – Smaller, more personal gatherings.

The Cons of Destination Weddings

• Travel Costs – Expensive for guests and the couple.
• Limited Guest Attendance – Not everyone can attend due to distance or costs.
• Planning Challenges – Complex logistics and coordination.

The Pros of Traditional Weddings

• Convenience for Guests – Easier for guests to attend locally.
• Familiarity and Comfort – Familiar settings and traditions.
• Budget-Friendly – More cost-effective for many couples.

The Cons of Traditional Weddings

• Less Exotic Setting – Might lack the unique charm of a destination wedding.
• Guest List Constraints – Larger guest lists might be more challenging to manage.
• Routine and Familiarity – Could be seen as less exciting or memorable.

READ MORE: The Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings Vs. Traditional Wedding in 2023

2. The Pros and Cons of Hiring Wedding Professionals Vs. Doing It Yourself

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Your wedding day is undoubtedly one of the most important days of your life, filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your dream wedding, you are faced with a crucial decision: Should you go the do-it-yourself (DIY) route or enlist the expertise of wedding professionals? It’s a dilemma that many couples face, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

The Pros of DIY

• Personalization – Tailoring the project to your specific preferences and style.
• Cost Savings – Potentially reducing expenses by doing it yourself.
• Bonding Opportunities – Creating shared experiences and memories with loved ones.

The Cons of DIY

• Time-Consuming – DIY projects often require more time and effort.
• Skill and Expertise – Some tasks may demand specialized knowledge or skills.
• Limited Resources – Access to tools and materials could be restricted.

The Pros of Hiring a Professional

• Expert Guidance – Benefit from the knowledge and experience of professionals.
• Time and Stress Savings – Professionals handle the work, reducing your burden.
• Quality Assurance – Higher chances of achieving desired results with experts.

The Cons of Hiring a Professional

• Budget Considerations – Hiring professionals may be more expensive.
• Loss of Control – Giving up some decision-making authority to the experts.
• Communication and Trust – Ensuring effective communication and trusting the professionals’ abilities.

The Pros of Finding the Balance

• Personalization and Expertise – Combining your ideas with professional guidance.
• Budget Flexibility – Tailoring the approach to fit your financial constraints.
• Enhanced Results – Utilizing both personal and professional skills for better outcomes.

The Cons of Finding the Balance

• Additional Coordination – Managing both DIY and professional aspects can be challenging.
• Time and Effort – Balancing DIY and professional tasks can be time-consuming.
• Balancing Act – Finding the right mix and ensuring a cohesive overall vision.

READ MORE: The Pros and Cons of Hiring Wedding Professionals Vs. Doing It Yourself

3. How to Decide Between Having a “Kid-Friendly” or “Adult-Only” Wedding

Photo by michellescottphoto.com

Planning a wedding is an exciting and joyous journey, but it often comes with countless decisions to make. One of the most significant choices is whether to host an adult-only celebration or extend a warm welcome to the little ones. While both options have their merits, determining the right approach for your special day requires careful consideration. 

What to Consider When Deciding Between an Adult-Only or Kid-Friendly Wedding

1. Considering Your Vision and Theme: Reflect on your wedding vision and theme to determine if an adult-only or kid-friendly approach aligns with your desired atmosphere.
2. Guest List Dynamics and Preferences: Take into account the guest list dynamics and preferences regarding children’s presence at the wedding.
3. Communication and Clear Expectations: Communicate openly with guests about your decision and set clear expectations regarding children’s attendance.
4. Budget and Logistics: Factor in the budget and logistical implications of accommodating children or arranging childcare services.
5. Creating an Inclusive Experience: Strive to create an inclusive experience that caters to both adult and child guests, if possible.
6. Etiquette and Sensitivity: Approach the decision with etiquette and sensitivity, considering the feelings and comfort of all guests involved.

The Pros and Cons of an Adult-Only Wedding

Pros:

• Elegance and Sophistication – An adult-only wedding can exude a more refined and sophisticated ambiance.
• Increased Focus on Adult Guests – Allows adult guests to enjoy the event without distractions.
• Enhanced Relaxation and Enjoyment – Without kids, adults can relax and fully immerse themselves in the celebration.
• Flexibility in Venue Selection – Opens up options for venues that may not be suitable for children.

Cons:

• Limited Attendance for Parents – Some parents may be unable to attend due to childcare responsibilities.
• Potential Hurt Feelings – The decision to exclude children may upset some guests or family members.
• Reduced Family Atmosphere – The absence of children may create a less family-oriented atmosphere.
• Need for Clear Communication – Proper communication is essential to ensure guests understand the no-children policy.

The Pros and Cons of a Kid-Friendly Wedding

Pros:

• Family-Oriented Atmosphere – Fosters a warm and inclusive environment for families.
• Convenience for Parents – Parents can attend without worrying about finding childcare.
• Endearing Moments – Children’s presence can lead to heartwarming and memorable moments.
• Enhanced Entertainment Options – More diverse entertainment choices for guests of all ages.

Cons:

• Potential Distractions – Children may distract some guests during the ceremony or speeches.
• Additional Planning and Expenses – Requires extra arrangements and expenses for children’s needs.
• Venue Limitations – Some venues may have restrictions or lack child-friendly facilities.
• Varying Age Groups – Catering to children of different ages can be challenging.

READ MORE: How to Decide Between Having a “Kid-Friendly” or “Adult-Only” Wedding

4. Should You Hire a DJ or a Live Band for Your Wedding Reception?

Photo by kurtboomerphoto.com/

As you plan this joyous celebration, one crucial decision you’ll need to make is whether to hire a DJ or a live band. Both options have their merits, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the atmosphere you want to create. 

• The DJ Experience: Hiring a DJ offers a versatile musical experience with a vast selection of songs across different genres. DJs can easily cater to diverse musical preferences and keep the dance floor lively with seamless song transitions and popular hits. Their ability to adapt to the crowd’s energy and requests ensures an entertaining and dynamic reception.
• The Live Band Experience: Opting for a live band brings an authentic and captivating atmosphere to your wedding reception. The charm of live performances and the unique energy they bring cannot be replicated. Live bands often offer personalized renditions of songs, creating an exclusive experience for you and your guests, making the celebration truly special and memorable.

Factors to Consider When Deciding

• Budget: Assess the costs associated with hiring a DJ or a live band to ensure it aligns with your overall wedding budget.
• Venue Constraints: Consider the space and sound limitations of your venue, as live bands may require more room and equipment.
• Musical Preferences: Determine which option better suits your musical tastes and the atmosphere you want to create.
• Song Requests: Evaluate whether you prefer the flexibility of a DJ’s vast song library or the live band’s ability to perform personalized song requests.

READ MORE: Should You Hire a DJ or a Live Band for Your Wedding Reception?

5. The Pros and Cons of Taking Your Spouse’s Last Name After Marriage

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

The age-old tradition of taking one’s spouse’s last name after marriage has been a common practice in many cultures around the world. However, as societal norms continue to evolve, so do individual choices regarding this significant decision. Today, more couples are carefully weighing the pros and cons of embracing or forgoing this tradition. Here are some things to consider:

1. Tradition and Identity: Taking your spouse’s last name can honor traditional norms and signify unity, but it may also raise questions about individual identity and gender equality.
2. Maintaining Your Identity: Keeping your maiden name can empower you to preserve your personal and professional identity established before marriage.
3. Hyphenation and Combining Names: Opting for hyphenation or blending last names allows couples to embrace both family heritages, but it may lead to longer or complicated surnames.
4. Creating a New Last Name: Choosing a completely new last name symbolizes a fresh start and shared identity, though it may be less connected to familial or cultural roots.
5. Considerations for Children: Deciding on a last name for children involves discussions about family unity, convenience, and the potential impact on their sense of identity.
6. Legal and Practical Considerations: Changing your last name requires navigating legal processes and updating identification documents, which can be time-consuming and may affect personal records.
7. Open Communication and Mutual Respect: Discussing the decision openly and respecting each other’s feelings is essential for making a choice that aligns with both partners’ preferences and values.

READ MORE: The Pros and Cons of Taking Your Spouse’s Last Name After Marriage

6. How to Decide if a Micro or a Big Wedding Is the Right One for You

Photo by instagram.com/camera_shi/

Planning a wedding is an exciting endeavor, filled with choices that will shape your special day. One of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to have a micro wedding or go all out with a grand celebration. Both options have their merits, and it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each before making your choice. 

The Pros of Micro Weddings

• Intimate Atmosphere – Create a close-knit celebration with cherished family and friends.
• Flexibility – Easier to adapt plans and incorporate personalized touches.
• Cost Savings – Typically more affordable due to a smaller guest count.
• Attention to Detail – Greater focus on personalized details and guest experience.

The Cons of Micro Weddings

• Guest List Challenges – Difficult decisions in selecting a limited number of guests.
• Limited Vendor Availability – Smaller weddings might face restrictions with some vendors.

The Pros of Big Weddings

• Celebrate with Everyone – Include a larger circle of friends and family in the festivities.
• Grandeur and Elegance – Possibility for a more extravagant and impressive event.
• Diverse Experiences – Offer various entertainment options for guests.

The Cons of Big Weddings

• Higher Costs – Larger guest counts often lead to increased expenses.
• Less Intimacy – Can feel less personal due to the sheer number of guests.

READ MORE: How to Decide if a Micro or a Big Wedding Is the Right One for You

7. Should You Have an “Unplugged” or “Plugged” Wedding?

Photo from stateofreverie.com

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable and cherished moments of your life. As you plan every detail, there is a delicate balance to consider between embracing the modern trends of technology and ensuring an intimate and distraction-free experience for you and your guests. 

Having a Plugged Wedding and The Rise of the Wedding Hashtag

1. Embracing Connectivity: Allowing guests to use their devices during the wedding to share and engage with the event online.
2. Curating Memories: Utilizing social media and wedding hashtags to collect and preserve candid moments from various perspectives.
3. Potential Distractions: Balancing the benefits of connectivity with the risk of guests being distracted by their devices during the ceremony.

The Charm of an Unplugged Ceremony

1. Enhanced Intimacy: Creating a more intimate and emotionally present atmosphere by requesting guests to refrain from using electronic devices.
2. Professional Photographs: Allowing the hired photographer to capture the moments without guests’ devices obstructing the view or interrupting the shots.
3. Respectful Etiquette: Encouraging guests to be fully present and respectful during the ceremony without the distraction of phones or cameras.

READ MORE: Should You Have an “Unplugged” or “Plugged” Wedding?

8. Here’s How to Decide if You Should Have Your Wedding on a Weekday or Weekend

Photo by danielle-smith-photography.com

Planning a wedding involves making numerous decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the right flowers and catering options. One of the most critical choices you’ll face is determining the day of the week for your special day. While weekends have traditionally been the go-to option for weddings, more and more couples are now considering weekday weddings. 

Factors to Consider When Considering a Weekday Wedding

• Availability and Cost: Weekdays may offer more venue and vendor availability, potentially leading to cost savings.
• Guest Attendance: Some guests might find it challenging to take time off work, impacting attendance.
• Intimacy and Exclusivity: A weekday wedding may create a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere with a smaller guest list.

Factors to Consider When Considering a Weekend Wedding

• Convenience for Guests: Weekend weddings are more convenient for guests who don’t need to take time off work.
• Extended Celebrations: Guests can participate in longer celebration activities without weekday work commitments.
• Vendor Availability: Popular vendors may have higher demand on weekends, potentially impacting availability and costs.

READ MORE: Here’s How to Decide if You Should Have Your Wedding on a Weekday or Weekend

9. Is It Better To Ask for Money or Should You Stick to a Gift Registry for Your Wedding?

Photo by Olivia Bollen on Unsplash

Planning a wedding is an exciting and joyous time in a couple’s life, but amidst all the wedding preparations, there’s one aspect that often leaves both guests and the happy couple in a quandary – the wedding gifts. Traditionally, wedding registries have been the go-to solution for guiding guests in their gift-giving, but in recent years, cash requests have gained popularity.

The Beauty of Wedding Registries

• The Perks for Guests: Wedding registries offer guests guidance in choosing gifts the couple truly desires, ensuring their presents are appreciated and useful.
• The Couple’s Perspective: Creating a wedding registry allows the couple to curate their wish list and receive gifts that match their needs and preferences.

The Appeal of Cash Requests

• Flexibility and Freedom: Cash gifts provide the couple with the freedom to use the funds as they wish, whether for practical needs, experiences, or future plans.
• Reduced Clutter: Cash gifts help avoid accumulating unnecessary items and reduce the clutter that can come with physical gifts.

Striking a Balance

• Consider a Hybrid Approach: Combining both a wedding registry and cash request option allows guests to choose how they’d like to contribute.
• Tactful Communication: Diplomatically conveying gift preferences to guests ensures they feel comfortable and appreciated, regardless of their choice.

READ MORE: Is It Better To Ask for Money or Should You Stick to a Gift Registry for Your Wedding?

10. Who Should Give Wedding Speeches at Your Reception?

You’re getting ready for one of the most beautiful and memorable events in your life – your wedding day. Amidst all the joy and excitement, there’s one aspect that often causes both couples and guests a mix of anticipation and anxiety: the wedding speeches. Whether you’re the happy couple or an honored guest asked to speak, the question arises: should we go with an open mic format or opt for selected speakers?

The Open Mic Experience: Unpredictable but Heartfelt

1. The Upside: The beauty of an open mic is the opportunity it provides for unexpected moments of genuine connection. 

2. The Downside: On the flip side, unbridled access to the microphone can lead to a few challenges. Some guests may not know when to wrap up their speech, potentially delaying the reception events or leaving guests restless.

The Selected Speakers Approach: Polished and Purposeful

1. The Upside: Opting for selected speakers means you can ensure a balance of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt sentiment.

2. The Downside: While the selected speakers approach provides a sense of structure, it does run the risk of inadvertently leaving out some cherished voices

Finding the Perfect Balance: Best of Both Worlds

Why settle for one when you can have the best of both worlds? If you find it difficult to choose between an open mic or selected speakers, consider incorporating elements of both into your wedding speeches.

READ MORE: Who Should Give Wedding Speeches at Your Reception?

11. Should You Tell Your Groom What Engagement Ring You Want?

Photo by Asha Bailey

Choosing an engagement ring is an exciting milestone for any couple embarking on the journey of marriage. While tradition often suggests that the groom should surprise the bride-to-be with a ring, modern relationships are built on open communication and shared decision-making.

5 Reasons Why You Should Tell Your Groom What Engagement Ring You Want

1. You are aligning your preferences.
2. You can save more time to focus on other wedding-related decisions.
3. You can bond over designing the ring.
4. You can review the financial aspect of buying a ring together.
5. You’re strengthening your bond.

READ MORE: Should You Tell Your Groom What Engagement Ring You Want?

13. The Wedded Wonderland Guide to Deciding Which Guests Need a Plus One

Photo by Erich Mcvey

In this guide, we tackle the topic of guest invitations and the ever-debated question: Which guests need a plus one? We understand that planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and determining the guest list can be a delicate task. Fear not, as we’re here to provide you with an informative and engaging guide to help you navigate this aspect of your wedding planning with ease. 

1. Understanding Plus Ones: Learn the importance of plus ones and their significance in wedding invitations.
2. Close Friends and Family: Include plus ones for your closest friends and family members to make them feel special on your big day.
3. Long-Term Partners: Extend plus ones to guests in committed relationships to acknowledge their bond and ensure their comfort.
4. Single Guests: Decide whether to offer plus ones to single guests based on factors like their social circle and their comfort level attending alone.
5. Exceptions and Considerations: Explore special cases where providing plus ones might be necessary, such as out-of-town guests or close-knit friend groups.
6. Communication is Key: Effectively communicate your plus one policy on invitations to avoid any confusion and address any potential concerns early on.

READ MORE: The Wedded Wonderland Guide to Deciding Which Guests Need a Plus One

To explore the latest trends, expert advice, and breathtaking inspiration in the world of weddings, don’t miss out on the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine! Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding enthusiast, this magazine is a must-read.

Below, browse and read your free copy of the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine today.