The Ultimate Wedding Checklist: How to Plan Your Dream Day With Make My Wedding

Hey there, future newlyweds! Ready to dive into the whirlwind of wedding planning? Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate affair or a grand celebration, wedding planning can be both thrilling and overwhelming. If you’re tying the knot in Chennai or simply love the city’s vibrant culture, you’re in for a treat! From finding the perfect attire to choosing a venue, there’s a lot on your plate, but don’t worry! We’ve got your back with this ultimate wedding planning planner. No matter your budget or traditions, let’s make sure your big day is nothing short of spectacular by Make My Wedding.

Make My Wedding – Your Ultimate Wedding Checklist

1. Setting the Date: Picking the Perfect Day

While many may follow traditions or consult astrologers to find an auspicious wedding date, you can also simply choose a date that holds personal significance. Whether you prefer to go with a lucky day according to the stars or your anniversary, setting the date is the first big step. Some couples also choose to marry on long weekends or holidays, so out-of-town guests can plan easily.

Action item: Discuss with your partner and families to finalise a date that works for everyone. If you’re into astrology, a family astrologer can help pinpoint a perfect day for the wedding. Consider consulting wedding planners near me for additional guidance.

2. Budget Planning: Keeping Your Finances in Check

Let’s talk about the big one—budget! Weddings can range from cosy, simple celebrations to extravagant affairs. It’s important to set a budget that you’re comfortable with and stick to it. Break down your expenses into categories like venue, outfits, catering, photography, and entertainment. Make sure you plan for some flexibility in case there are extra costs that come up along the way.

Tip: Allocate about 40% of your budget for the venue and catering as they typically take up a large chunk of wedding expenses. Use wedding planning websites to help you create a comprehensive budget.

3. Selecting the Perfect Venue: Choose What Fits Your Style

Chennai offers a variety of wedding venues that range from traditional to modern. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony in a temple or a luxurious event in a five-star hotel, Make My Wedding can help you find a venue that reflects your style. Consider the number of guests, the accessibility of the location, and, of course, the venue’s vibe.

Popular Choices: Traditional wedding halls, luxurious hotels, and scenic outdoor venues like beach resorts are popular options. Make sure you book your venue well in advance, as prime locations get reserved quickly. Make My Wedding‘s expert wedding coordinators can provide valuable advice on venue selection and help you secure your dream location.

4. Wedding Invitations: Blending Tradition with Modern Touches

Your wedding invitation sets the tone for the big day. While Chennai weddings are known for their elaborate and traditional invites, you can opt for modern e-vites or minimalist designs to suit your style. Whether you’re going for traditional printed invites or a paperless route, make sure your guests get all the important details, including the date, time, and location.

Tip: Don’t forget to send out your invitations well in advance. If you’re planning a destination wedding or expecting guests from out of town, it’s even more important to give them plenty of time to plan. Use wedding planning sites for inspiration and design ideas.

5. Bridal and Groom Attire: Dress to Impress

Weddings are the perfect excuse to dress your best. Chennai is known for its traditional Kancheepuram sarees, but your wedding attire should reflect your taste. For brides, the options are endless: sarees, lehengas, gowns—you name it! For grooms, a classic sherwani, suit, or even a traditional veshti can help you make a statement.

Tip: Head to the famous shopping streets in Chennai, such as T Nagar, to find stunning bridal wear at a great price. Don’t forget to plan outfits for the pre-wedding events too! Consider hiring a wedding event planner to help coordinate your attire with the overall theme.

6. Jewellery Shopping: Adding the Extra Sparkle

Whether you’re into traditional gold or modern diamond sets, jewellery shopping is an essential part of wedding planning. While many brides in Chennai lean towards traditional gold, your jewellery choices should match your wedding outfit and style. Grooms, too, can accessorise with stylish cufflinks, watches, and even traditional items like turbans or brooches.

Tip: Sowcarpet and GRT Jewellers are renowned places in Chennai for a wide range of traditional and contemporary jewellery options. Consult with wedding event management professionals for styling advice.

7. Catering: Keep Your Guests Happy

When it comes to weddings, food is a major highlight. No matter where you’re getting married, a delicious menu is a must. Whether you choose traditional Tamil vegetarian meals or a more diverse menu that caters to all your guests, make sure the food is memorable. Make My Wedding can help you find the perfect catering options for your special day.

Tip: Hire experienced caterers who specialise in wedding feasts, and arrange for a tasting session to ensure the menu meets your expectations. Look for caterers with excellent reviews and a track record of successful large-scale events. MakeMyWedding‘s marriage event management team can help you find the best caterers in town.

8. Photography and Videography: Capture the Moments

Weddings are filled with unforgettable moments, and you’ll want every one of them captured perfectly. Whether you go for traditional photography or a more candid style, hiring the right photographer is key. Ensure your photographer understands the flow of the wedding and is experienced with both posed and spontaneous shots.

Tip: Chennai boasts many talented wedding photographers known for beautifully capturing the essence of weddings. Look for professionals with experience in traditional South Indian ceremonies and a portfolio that matches your style preferences. Don’t forget to hire skilled wedding videographers to capture your special day in motion.

9. Pre-Wedding Events: Warm-Up to the Big Day

Pre-wedding events are an exciting lead-up to the wedding day. Whether it’s an engagement, Mehndi, Sangeet, or bachelor/bachelorette parties, these celebrations can range from traditional to contemporary. Each of these mini-events needs its planning, so make sure to think ahead when it comes to locations, food, and entertainment.

Tip: If you’re on a tight schedule, delegate tasks to family members and close friends to ease the planning load. Use wedding organiser websites to keep track of all your pre-wedding events.

10. Entertainment: Keep the Party Going

You don’t want your wedding to be a snooze-fest, so make sure your guests are entertained! Whether it’s traditional Bharatanatyam, a live band, or a DJ that keeps everyone dancing, plan some entertainment that will resonate with your guests.

Tip: Your guest list will likely include a mix of age groups, so consider something for everyone, from classic music to a modern dance floor. Wedding management websites can help you find and book the best entertainment options.

11. Legal Paperwork: The Final Step

Before you walk down the aisle, make sure you’ve got all the legal paperwork sorted. Depending on your preference, you can register your marriage under the Special Marriage Act or Hindu Marriage Act. Ensure all necessary documents, such as birth certificates, identification, and proof of residence, are in order.

Tip: Some wedding venues, like certain temples, offer the option of a religious ceremony followed by official registration, saving you time and effort. Consult with marriage event planners or marriage event organisers for guidance on legal requirements.

Wrapping It Up

Weddings are a beautiful mix of traditions and modern touches, and this checklist will help you navigate all the steps to your big day. Whether you’re planning a grand affair or an intimate celebration, make sure to stay true to yourselves and enjoy the journey. For more wedding planning tips and resources, visit MakeMyWedding, your trusted matrimony partner. Happy planning, lovebirds!

Make My Wedding is here to help you create the perfect day, filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories!