What not to forget when planning your wedding...

You may be reading this having sat and figured out your budget, with a spreadsheet on the go and a list of absolutely everything you can think of that you'll need to book and pay for.

You may be at the start of your planning journey and are figuring out everything you need to be looking for.

You may also be somewhere in between. The fact is, at some point in the planning process, something will crop up that you weren't expecting, and with a recent Bridebook survey stating over 65% of couples go over budget, we're here to help you plan, avoid nasty surprises and stick to budget!

This list was compiled from previous couples who got caught out by not having things on this list on their list. If we add just one of these to your list of things to plan for so you don't get caught out nearer the time then that's one less thing to worry about.

So, here is the list. Read, make notes, and feel smug if these are already on your radar!

Pre-wedding-

• Transport for you, parents, guests to and from the venue.
• Alterations for not just you, but your bridesmaids too
• Underwear, you might not be able to wear that sexy matching set with your dress as you may find yourself sucked into some spanx, so budget for that extra set to change into!
• Bridesmaid proposal (fairly new to the wedding industry but taking off in a big way over here).
• Beauty treatments-get your skin ready for the big day!
• Hen and Stag do. Although lots of people budget for this there is always an extra taxi needed/club fees to pay/spot of shopping to do, so have some cash at the ready.
• Gifts for bridesmaids, parents etc.

• Weather plan b. Weather is unpredictable! Heatwave? Pack sunscreen for you and your guests, with umbrellas for shade and easily accessible water. Rain? Pack lots of golf umbrellas (you can buy white ones on ebay or your photographer may even have some)
• Unexpected late RSVP's! Annoying but people assume you just know they're coming so don't bother actually confirming, or they confirm late, or they change their mind and can come after all!
• Confetti. If you're hoping for that confetti shot, take control over it and supply your own as not all guests will bring it, plus you can ensure the venue will be happy for you to use it.
• Favours. Prices can creep up on these, the gift maybe cheap but how will you present it? Wrapping? Pretty tags? Postage? All cost extra money.
• Decor. The venue, ceremony, church etc. Check with your florist what items can be re-positioned. For example registrar table arrangement can be used for the top table, centrepieces for the tables can be used during the ceremony in the windowsills, along the aisle. Chat with your florist about ways you can use the flowers, and check if they charge to come back and re position things for you.
• 10% contingency. Save this and you'll have a nice sum of money to use after the wedding, or prevent yourself going into debt when the budget creeps up.

• Postage. A first class stamp is 70p, second is 61p. Sending out invites by post can easily add up to over £50 for the average wedding. Try and deliver them in person when you see people and also check the size of your invite fits with the price of the stamp. If they are too think you'll get caught with your guests having to go to the sorting office to pay the extra postage fee! Best off taking them to the post office to be sure!
• Hotel the night before-or stay with a friend if you and your partner don't want to see each other the night before the wedding.
• Church donation fees. Some will include this in their fee, some request a donation on top of their fees so best check!
• Pre wedding events. It's not just the Hen and Stag do's, it's the works drinks, brunches and drinks with friends who want to take you out one last time before the big day.
• Getting ready fizz and food. Your room bill will creep up as everyone will be ordering to your room whilst getting ready, so plan for it, or make sure people pay their share!
• On the day stationary. Don't forget place cards, order of the day, table plan and order of service (if required)

And just when you think it's done, you're hitched, there can't possibly be anything else to buy...surely....

Don't forget these post wedding costs-

• Thank you cards and postage
• Dry cleaning of suits and dress
• Printing of photos/wedding album (if not included in photography package)
• Travel to the airport for your honeymoon
• Travel insurance
• Car parking

This list was compiled from previous couples who got caught out by not having things on this list on their list. If we add just one of these to your list of things to plan for so you don't get caught out nearer the time then that's one less thing to worry about.

Happy planning!

Love team Whitewed xxx