How to plan a small SoCal Wedding
You’re engaged and it’s been roughly a few weeks without a clear direction to plan a wedding. Well, I did some research as a wedding photographer.
First important decision is to finalize a destination. This could be hard since Southern California is huge area. But the answer to your problem is to finalize your guest invites. Get real specific on guests you are going to invite, so you can filter venues by guest count.
Second, talk to your partner on a budget. A small wedding is estimated to be about 30-80 wedding guests with roughly a budget of $10,000 to $15,000. Now if you’re quite surprised and this budget scares you, you might find elopement is more affordable and a better fit. But if you’re still here reading, let’s jump into why finalizing your budget is important. The budget ultimately determines your venue.
Noor Pasadena, CA
After you finalize your destination, budget, venue, and number of guests, you can now sign your venue contract the exact day you want your wedding on. Remember, if you don’t have a contract signed or permit on hand, the date isn’t set. And don’t forget to read the fine print on the contract that may or may not limit what you can do at the venue like décor, flower arrangement, special performances, and etc.
Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa
You have your destination, venue, date, and guest count. Don’t forget your transportation and stay. Book a hotel or airbnb near your venue the day before til the next afternoon after the wedding. And if the venue isn’t local to you, book your flights.
Next is to bring on an officiant whether it is a friend, family member, or local professional. Hire a photographer and videographer duo team that can document your day or give you an editorial vibe. Hire a florist and maybe get some décor. Then finish it off with a DJ.
University Club of Pasadena
The last step is to get a marriage license. Every single county has a different way to obtain a marriage license. Contact your county and city clerk to schedule an appointment. You can get your marriage license in any county in California for about $50-$200. You have 90 days from when you get your marriage license to perform a ceremony. Don’t forget to bring a mandatory witness such as your photographer.
Los Angeles River Center and Garden
Hope this was helpful. Contact me if you need any questions.