Things to Consider - In General

If you are planning your own wedding and don't have a wedding planner, the following considerations may assist for you to make your own arrangements.

If you have been to other wedding ceremonies, what did you like about them?

What didn’t you like?

Who else will be participating in your ceremony?

What dreams do you have about your ceremony?

Do you want a theme for your ceremony?

Are there any special rituals or symbols you may like to incorporate in your ceremony?

Will you have live or recorded music?

Do you wish to incorporate elements of a religious or cultural nature to your ceremony?

When and where do you want the ceremony to take place?

What time of day do you wish to marry?

What kind of atmosphere do you want to create?

Will you have an alter where the vows are exchanged?

Things to Consider - Outdoor Weddings

Do you have a wet weather alternative?

How will the bridal party enter and exit?

How will the guests be gathered (seated/standing)?

Are there any steps to negotiate?

Will you provide seating for the elderly and frail?

Will there be enough shade from the sun?

What will the temperature be?

What are the tides doing (if you are on the beach)?

When is sunset? Will you have enough light?

What will you do if the wind picks up?

If you are on public land, have you organised a permit from Cairns Regional Council?

Will there be any background noise such as traffic or birds?

Who will stage the event, tell the guests what to do?

Is there sufficient parking for guests?

Is there enough room for all your guests?

Will you have refreshments for your guests after the ceremony - and if so, do you require a license?

Will there be power available should you need it?

Have you set a deadline for when a decision needs to be made to change venues?

Who will notify your guests if there is a venue change? Do you have a full list of guest contact phone numbers?

How will you create your ceremonial space and atmosphere?

Things to Consider - Large Weddings

If you are planning a large wedding (a large wedding would be considered to be 40 or more guests) then you may like to consider creating your very own wedding website to keep your friends and family up to date with your wedding plans. You can include information on Port Douglas (how to get here, weather, accommodation options, things to see and do, where to eat and drink etc) plus information specific to your wedding such as a Calendar of Events for the week, Bucks & Hens party info, Gift Registry... you can even manage your guest list online and have friends and family RSVP through the website. In the past, clients of mine have recommended Wedding Window

And after your big day has come and gone, your personal wedding website is a great place to put your wedding photos so all your family and friends can see and relive the fun!