Get Organized

Happy Wedding Wednesday! In February I blogged about the importance of a wedding planning binder & where to find one that fits your style.  Today I am sharing some tools that will keep your binder (& life) more organized throughout the planning process.  Every binder should include a timeline, checklist, budget breakdown, design inspiration, receipts & contracts, vendor contacts, venues, diagrams, wedding day attire, guest list, rentals, music & photography, vows & officiant, & honeymoon information.  Of course these categories depend on the bride/type of wedding & can include many more! Here are some ideas & free resources to add to your binder.

Click on the photos for a direct link to their source.

1. Tabs & Folders

The more tabs, the better because it helps to not overlook any detail! I love tab dividers that are also pocket folders where you can put information in the correct section while you are on the go or at a meeting, & then hole punch & attach to the rings later. Or fill the categorized folders with inspiring pics & samples!

2. Photo Album Inserts

Album inserts are great for organizing your vendor business cards & contact information. I suggest putting them in the very beginning of the binder for quick reference.  You can buy inexpensive albums at the dollar store, then cut them out & hole punch them or even use regular paper sheet protectors for larger vendor information postcards! These are also great for storing fabric swatches or invitation samples.

3. Washi Tape for Scheduling

This is for the bride who like things to be color coded & neat. I love the idea of being able to use washi tape in the wedding color palette to schedule important meetings & planning sessions! The best part is that if plans change (which they will), you can just remove the tape on which you’ve written & not have to worry about messy scribbles or white-out on your calendar! It’s also great for highlighting important information like vendor payment dates & time sensitive items on your checklist.

4. Wedding Planning Workbook

There are numerous wedding websites with checklists & free tools out there. However, I have never seen a such a detailed workbook to completely categorize & organize your binder until I came across eleGala! Click on the screenshot to get the full printable PDF & your binder will be ready to go :)

5. Seating Chart Idea

This is a great way to organize your guests at your reception. First create a sheet with a layout of your numbered tables. Then, group your guest list into categories (bride’s friends, family friends, etc.) & assign a color for each group. Write guest’s names on sticky notes/tabs according to color so that you are able to play around with the seating & re-arrange as needed. It is always a good idea to have a visual reference when planning & this is an easy DIY chart to make yourself!

5. Additional Diagram Worksheets

The next three pictures are extra helpful planning resources to include in your binder. Just click on the picture to link to the free printable!

Have a great week & happy planning!

♥ Rebecca