Are you the type of couple that’s more likely to spend Saturday night watching Netflix than dancing at a nightclub? Barn weddings lend the perfect homespun feeling for laidback couples who want to keep their nuptials simple. A checklist is your biggest ally in staying on track as you plan and prepare for your big day. Jordan Hill Farm, a wedding venue in Richmond, KY, that specializes in simple barn weddings, has prepared a game plan to help you stay on track.

Early Wedding Planning

1. Set the Date

One of the most important decisions you’ll make during this stage is establishing the date and time of your wedding. Stay flexible by narrowing down your preferences to a particular month or season, and then choose your final date based on venue availability. Depending on the schedule of the venue you end up selecting, the date you have in mind might vary by a few weeks.

2. Set Your Budget

The best way to keep a wedding affordable is to establish your budget early on. Your budget should include the cost of the venue rental, catering, cake, wardrobe, flowers, a photographer, and music.

3. Establish Your Guest List

Do you have a huge extended family, or do you envision your ceremony being more of an intimate gathering? Establish your guest list or get an approximate head count so you know how many people your venue will need to hold.

4. Choose a Location

Begin touring prospective sites for your ceremony and reception. These might end up being held at the same location, or two different spots. Keep your guests’ traveling needs in mind if you end up settling on different venue rental locations for both events.

5. Select Your Wedding Party

This is one of the most exciting parts of the planning process! If you decide to have a wedding party, it’s time to decide who you are going to ask to be your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Consider giving them a little gift when asking to show them how excited you are for them to stand with you at the altar for your big day.

6. Pick a Theme & Colors

Do you imagine walking down the aisle with a bouquet of white flowers, or is neon yellow your partner’s favorite color? Decide on a wedding theme and the color palette that you’ll be basing your décor off of.

4 – 6 Months Until “I Do”

1. Hire Your Vendors

Unless you plan on DIYing a good portion of your barn wedding, you will most likely be making hiring decisions during this part of the planning process. Your list might include a catering company, live musicians or a DJ, a photographer and/or videographer, and a baker for your wedding cake.

2. Order Attire

What will the bride, groom, and bridal party be wearing for the big day? This is the time when you should order the bride’s wedding dress and groom’s tuxedo, as well as attire for bridesmaids and groomsmen.

3. Mail Out Invitations

Once the venue, date, and time are all finalized, it’s time to send out invitations! Make sure your guests know when they need to RSVP by, as well as imperative information such as nearby hotels for out-of-town attendees.

4. Apply for Your Wedding License

Check your state’s guidelines regarding the requirements for applying for a marriage license. Some states have mandated waiting periods, or require you to re-apply if too much time passes between your application and wedding day.

Eliminate the stress of planning a simple barn wedding by having your nuptials at Jordan Hill Farm. This 85-acre countryside retreat boasts rolling hills and glorious sunsets that provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, reception parties, family reunions, corporate events, conferences, vacations, and more. Learn more about hosting intimate weddings at Jordan Hill Farm by visiting their website or calling (859) 623-0807. Ask about “Kiss”  Keep it Simple Sweetheart Wedding Bliss! They are our “weekday” intimate wedding specials.( Tuesday - Thursday)