A practical starting point for your South African wedding. You do not need every answer today. Begin with the decisions that shape everything else.
Start with your three anchors
- Your people: agree an initial guest count and the people who must be there.
- Your place: choose a province or area, then consider travel and accommodation.
- Your priorities: pick the three things you most want to remember about the day.
Set a workable budget
Choose a total you are comfortable spending. Break it into venue, food, photography, outfits, decor, entertainment and other essentials. Keep room for costs you have not confirmed yet.
- Record estimates separately from agreed prices.
- Check whether quotes include VAT, travel, delivery and setup.
- Record a deposit as money already paid against the agreed total, not as an additional cost.
- Ask about refundable breakage deposits and the conditions for their return.
Ask every venue
- Is our date available, and for how long will you hold it?
- What is included for our guest count, and which price year applies?
- What is the wet-weather plan and backup-power arrangement?
- Are there extra fees for outside suppliers, overtime or corkage?
- What are the deposit, cancellation and postponement terms?
- Is access suitable for every guest, and what accommodation or transport is nearby?
Build a thoughtful shortlist
Compare complete packages rather than the cheapest starting price. Look for work you like, clear communication and a written scope. Keep a copy of the final quote and agreement.
Before you pay
Confirm the supplier identity, date, deliverables and payment details directly. Get any changes in writing. A directory listing or review is not a guarantee of a supplier’s work or availability.
Keep the final details together
Make a day-of contact list, final guest count, arrival times and an easy-to-share schedule. Agree who will handle questions so you can enjoy the celebration.