Any way to get 'er planned in 80 days?!

brownblonde

I got engaged in October

But between mild cold feet leading me to be a crazy-terrible-bridezilla and law school I set aside planning completely.  At the point at which I put things to the side, I had put a deposit down on my church/minister/organist and the reception venue (which includes catering, all the rental stuff, etc.).  I also did a good bit of researching music, photographers, and dress trying-on, so I'm not completely in the dark.

Also, I have recently emailed several photographers and all but 1 were still available for July 20!  Last check the musicians were available as well.  

Now I find myself about to begin the 2 week marathon of law finals on Monday so there is no way I will get anything done until May 18.  

I know the most difficult task will be the dress.  Last week I went to a sample sale (at my favorite boutique when I first tried on dresses) and found several contenders.  Good news is that the samples fit me like a glove!  Of course I would still need a few alterations like hem and bustle at a minimum and I know those take 6+ weeks a lot.  Also I have considered wearing my mother's dress and having it altered (it's yellowed a little though and that's a whole other issue).  

The other big task would be getting and getting out invitations STAT.  

The good news is that I would have that first week after finals to devote entirely to planning should I so choose.

Is it possible?  Is it worth it?

I do still have a lot going on this summer between work and writing on to law review.  

I am a horrible procrastinator anyway and in some ways I think having limited options and limited time could make it less stressful planning and make me a nicer bride.  Or I could be completely delusional.

Also, I know there are lots of other little planning things I'm overlooking.  

We have not sent out any save the dates or anything yet.  Really, it's up to us.  Everyone would understand if we waited.  At worse we'd lose the deposit on the venue.  

I have some people telling me to take my time, enjoy, and plan the wedding I want.  Why rush to marry the person you're going to be with forever?

And on the other hand I have people saying that the wedding is just the day, go ahead and get it done and start spending the rest of your life with the person you're going to marry.  

Please weigh-in! 

AmJam04

I personally think you have too much on your plate, and the fact you dealt with cold feet implies that waiting may be a better option.

But, it's up to you and your fiance. How does he feel?

Also: If you do stick with July, nix the STDs -- there's no point to them now :P

crysspears

Assuming you have more law school, I'ddo it sooner than later. You have all the big stuff out of the way! You can get s wonderful sample dress you love and get invites out in some spare time. U even mentioned the week of free time you have, that week could be strictly wedding and get a lot done then! It will be stressful, but in the end when its summer and you're married it'll all be worth it!you could even have your fi help do some appts... You can make anything happen that you want, just gotta start

Andama08

It's definitely possible. The reason why many engagements last so long is not because planning takes that long, it's because weddings are expensive and couples often can't produce such a large amount so quickly. I would say if you can afford to do it on that date go ahead.

KatieNoon

I am in a similar situation, I have a bit more done but I also took on A TON of DIY projects. If you have the money to pay for your stuff to be made for you it's totally possible! Good luck on finals!

jenlynn1204

If it is what you want, you can get it planned in the time you have.  Can you ask some family/friends to help with some stuff?  Good luck!

Belle0720

This is a super personal decision that you and your FI have to make. 

If you decide to continue as planned I definitely think it's possible to do especially since you have the big stuff already done. No need for Save the Dates at this point. You should start looking at invitations though, they do take some time to design, ship to you, assemble & address, and mail out, and you want to get those out 6-8 weeks before the wedding.

theretamaragoes

I definitely think it's POSSIBLE

I got engaged in January... however, it was *right* before a 5 week backpacking trip to Thailand. We were not able to do any planning until Mid-February. When we got home, the first thing we did was pick a venue. We knew that we wanted to get married in 2013.... and were HOPING for the Fall (giving us 7-8 months to plan)... Only trouble was the venue that we fell in love with only had one date left in 2013.... And that was July 13th. A full 2-3 months sooner than we had anticipated! Yikes!

Ultimately we decided to go with it.. and I haven't regretted it once since. We are expecting about 80 guests anda are doing a Rustic/Vintage/DIY theme. There is nothing too fancy or crazy that is taking months to import, or save up for, or prepare. I also have 3 fabulous bridesmaids and lots of family who are keen to lend a hand. Honestly, I have found that once you have all of your major vendors booked, it's really pretty smooth sailing.