Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially with a six-month (or less!) timeline. But don’t worry! With some organization and guidance, your dream West Virginia wedding can become a stunning reality. I planned my wedding in 6 months, and it was everything I could have ever hoped for. Now that I am the owner and operator of our Fayette County, WV wedding venue, I am noticing an uptick of couples preferring shorter engagements. In 2024, Evermore Ridge wedding venue booked 4 weddings that had less than 6 months (2 of which only had 3 months) to plan their weddings! Of course, there are lingering concerns about whether it's feasible to plan a wedding in a short timeframe, but like mine, all these couples managed to create truly stunning weddings. I am here to encourage you that it is possible, and this guide will help you navigate the essential steps to ensuring your day goes smoothly.
Step 1: Create a Guest List & Set a Budget
The very first step in planning your perfect West Virginia wedding is setting a clear budget. Understanding how much you can spend will shape every choice you make down the line. To provide an idea of the cost of a wedding in West Virginia, the Wedding Report states that the average expense for a wedding in the state in 2023 was $16,862 (link to source). Of course, this average can vary greatly depending on the number of guests and how extravagant you want your wedding to be. Evermore Ridge wedding venue believes in being transparent about our pricing so that couples can better plan for their weddings. If you are interested in our pricing and wedding packages, click the button below!
A good way to start your budget planning is by listing potential expenses. Make sure to include the venue, catering, attire, flowers, and photography. Aim to save about 10% of your budget for unexpected costs. First, discuss what matters most to both of you. Is it the venue’s ambiance? Mouth-watering food? Stunning photography? Prioritize those areas and allocate funds accordingly.
Your guest list also directly impacts your budget. It is important to keep in mind that for every guest you add, you also add cost. Creating your guest list can be a mix of excitement and challenge. Start by writing down all the people you'd like to invite, then narrow it down based on budget. A straightforward method to reduce the guest list and save money is to host an "adults-only" wedding.
Step 2: Choose Your Perfect West Virginia Wedding Venue & Wedding Date
A great way to begin discussing a wedding date is by consulting with key family and friends regarding their availability. Beyond that, you may have to be flexible when selecting your dream wedding venue in West Virginia and setting your wedding date due to the 6-month timeframe. Many venues book dates 1-2 years ahead of time, but now and again, venues will have unexpected availability due to cancellations. For example, Evermore Ridge, a wedding venue near Charleston, West Virginia, has recently had some fall 2025 dates become available due to unexpected cancellations.
Step 3: Send Save the Dates
As soon as you have your date secured at the venue, it is vital you send save the dates This will give your guests a few months to make plans and possibly rearrange schedules for your wedding. Save the dates don't have to be expensive or extravagant. You can print them from Walmart or even send a digital version which is completely free!
Step 4: Assemble Your Vendor Team
With your date and wedding venue secured, it's time to gather your team of vendors. Look for vendors who are relativity close to your venue because that will save you from spending extra money on travel fees.
Develop a list of all essential vendors, including:
Coordinator: A coordinator should be the vendor you search for after your venue. A coordinator can guide you through the details of your wedding planning and are truly irreplaceable on the day of your wedding. They manage everything from vendor coordination to handling last-minute issues so you and your family can truly enjoy the day.
Photographers: The photos from your wedding are irreplaceable. Find a photographer that captures your sense of style.
Florists: Consider using both real and silk flowers, as both are beautiful. Many previous Evermore Ridge brides have chosen silk flowers for centerpieces but opted for real ones in their bouquet. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference!
Caterers: This is really what your guests care about, good food goes a long way. Always ask your caterer what is included in their pricing. Do they box up leftover food? Do they help clean up tables after people are finished eating?
DJs: Some couples do not consider a DJ to be an essential vendor, but DJs do more than just play music. They also make important announcements, like introducing the wedding party. The DJ can make a big difference in the flow of your wedding day.
Cake/Dessert Artist: It is possible to do this yourself, but there are many local cake makers that are affordable and sometimes it's best to leave it to the professionals!
Contact your chosen vendors promptly, as the best often book up quickly, especially during popular months.
Step 5: Send Invitations
Choose your invitation method. Digital invites are modern and eco-friendly, while traditional paper invitations can add charm. Include all essential details—venue, time, and lodging info. It is considered etiquette to send out invitations about 8 weeks prior to your wedding. As a wedding vendor, I strongly suggest setting your RSVP deadline 30 days before your wedding. Since many vendors, such as caterers, charge based on the number of guests, having an accurate RSVP a month in advance can help you save money. It also allows you to save on details like buying the correct number of guest favors.
Step 6: Plan the Details and Day-of Coordination
As your wedding date approaches, it's time to ensure everything comes together. Organize logistics such as seating charts (another reason why you need an accurate guest count 30 days before your wedding), ceremony rehearsals, and DIY decorations.
I strongly suggest scheduling a meeting with your venue and coordinator about 30 days before your wedding. At our venue near Summersville, WV, we always meet with couples and their coordinator 30 days prior to the wedding. During this meeting, we review details and logistics to ensure everyone is on the same page, making your wedding day smooth and stress-free.
Lastly, always create a detailed timeline outlining the day's events—the timeline should start at the moment you are allowed in the venue the day of your wedding. Include even the most minor details, from who is having their hair styled first to the specifics of the ceremony and reception. Typically, a coordinator will assist in creating this schedule. After finalizing the schedule, share it with your vendors and wedding party to ensure everyone knows what to anticipate.
Your Path to a Memorable Wedding
Planning your West Virginia wedding in 6 months can seem daunting, but by breaking it down into these 6 straightforward steps, you can craft a beautiful day without unnecessary stress. If you are interested in a fall 2025 wedding, we would love for you to consider Evermore Ridge wedding venue located in Fayette County, WV. Feel free to click the button below to request a tour of our stunning Southern West Virginia wedding venue.
From budgeting and wedding venue selection, to organizing all the important details, staying structured is essential. As you plan, remember to enjoy every moment of the process. Each decision brings you closer to your dream wedding. Take a deep breath and savor the journey ahead as you prepare to say "I do" amidst West Virginia’s stunning scenery.
Shout Out to Locally Owned Wedding Venues
Here at our locally owned Fayette County, WV wedding venue we are dedicated to using our blogs to support other locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we include links to other locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
This is great advice! It's nice to see wedding planning broken down into manageable steps. It can get overwhelming quickly.
-Shannon, Talula Mesa Glamping, Austin, TX