It usually takes at least a year to plan a traditional wedding, but if you’re pressed for time, don’t panic. It’s possible to have an exquisite wedding that was thrown together in less time. Planning a wedding last minute is much easier than you might think; just follow these tips and stay cool!

What to Do First

• Attempt to book a venue. Most venues require that you reserve them at least a year in advance, however there are always cancellations. If you aren’t able to secure a venue, or you’d rather hold your wedding or reception at a loved one’s backyard or home, do that!
• Send out invitations. If your're planning a wedding that will take place within two weeks, send e-invitation. This is not only time-efficient, but also better for the environment and will save you money!
  
• Phone your guests. Call everyone on your guest list to ensure they mark their calendar immediately.
  

Budget
In the very beginning stages of planning a wedding last minute, you need to figure out how much you and your family members are able to contribute. Don't be nervous. Just ask—you don't have time to waste!

Who's Doing What?

• Put together your wedding party.
• Delegate tasks to friends and family members. Since you won’t have time to do everything yourself, delegate the following tasks:
  

          o Securing honeymoon arrangements
          o Transportation to and from wedding venue for wedding party and out of town guests
          o Hotel reservations for out of town guests
          o Make a final headcount and seating chart
          o Timetable for wedding day from beginning to end—this includes time frame for speeches, dinner, dancing and cleanup
          o Payment for vendors and hired help—put someone in charge of ensuring everyone is paid in cash or check the day of the wedding
          o Decorations for ceremony and reception

What to Wear?

• Choose bridesmaid dresses and ensure they'll be delivered with ample time for alterations.
• If alterations and delivery don’t fit your timeline, then choose a color and/or length/style, then ask your bridesmaids to wear something they already have.
  
• The groom and groomsmen should follow the same wedding planning attire guidelines as bridesmaids.
  

Food & Drink

• Book a caterer. Choose one who will take care of any rental needs and anything bar-related.
• If booking a caterer is not an option, then only offer appetizers, wedding cake and a champagne toast at your reception. Pick a restaurant you love and arrange to have them cook and deliver an array of appetizers and small dishes.
  
• For the ultra-casual last minute wedding, buy the food pre-made from the grocery store.
  

Post-Wedding Brunch
Providing a delightful brunch at the restaurant of your choice for a portion of your wedding guests is a fantastic way to ensure your wedding experience exceeds your expectations regardless of time constraints. If you had to cut down the time frame of your wedding this will give you and your groom extra time to mingle and connect with your guests.

Even though your big day is being put together last minute doesn’t mean it will be anything less than you always imagined. You may not get your first choice in certain areas, however, remember your options and explore them fully.

Check Out Budget Tips for Wedding Flowers
Check Out Hiring a Part Time Wedding Planner
Check Out Last Minute Wedding Planner Meetings