When you think about your big day—the one where you finally say “I do”—there may be hundreds of ideas cluttering your head. When it comes time to sit down and plan everything out, where do you start? From the red wine to the reception venue, use the following guide to plan your ideal wedding day.

A Brief Wedding Planning Checklist

1. The Guest List

This might be the most vital part of tying the knot—after all, the whole point of holding a ceremony and reception is for your loved ones to witness your marital commitment. Before you start jotting down names, think of the maximum number of guests you would like to host. This will affect the venue you choose, as well as your overall budget. A more intimate wedding includes 60 guests or fewer, while 100 or more guests could set the stage for a lavish affair.

2. The Ceremony & Reception Venue

Next, think about your dream location for the ceremony. If you and your fiance are more traditional, you might want to have the service in a church, while outdoorsy, adventurous couples might feel more at home under an open sky.

For the reception, let your guest list, the season, and your vision dictate your choice. The size of your guest list could require anything from a restaurant to a banquet hall. A winter wedding fling might need to be indoors, but if you’re getting married during a more temperate time of year, consider a tented bash in a picturesque park or vineyard.

3. Food & Drinks

Finally, keep your guests satisfied and excited to stick around and celebrate by offering delicious food and beverages. After checking for any dietary restrictions during the RSVP process, provide a limited menu with several options, including vegetarian, nut-free, or gluten-free dishes. When it comes to drinks, it all depends on your budget. You could offer glasses of red or white wine with dinner, or you might want to treat your guests to an open bar and a champagne toast.

When you’re ready to plan your fairy-tale wedding, contact Hidden Lake Winery of Aviston, IL. In addition to making their own red and white wines, they also offer a dazzling reception venue with a bar, balcony, and patio. To learn more about their restaurant and accommodations, visit the website. Call (618) 228-9111 to speak with a staff member and start planning your wedding today.