Stress less, sparkle more—with the help of Crystal Ballroom On Lake Melva.
Planning your dream wedding in 2025? You’re in the right place—and South Florida is the perfect backdrop. With warm weather, ocean breezes, and picture-perfect venues, it’s no wonder couples from all over are saying "I do" right here in Fort Lauderdale.
But even in paradise, wedding planning takes structure. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-follow planning timeline, featuring expert tips and showing how Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva helps you plan every step—without the stress.
Just Engaged? Here’s What to Do First
Before the guest lists and dress fittings begin, take a moment to celebrate! Then ease into the planning process with these essentials:
✔ Share the news with close family and friends
✔ Schedule engagement photos (hello, beach backdrop!)
✔ Set your budget
✔ Start browsing styles, colors, and venue vibes
Crystal Ballroom Tip: Start strong by booking a free VIP tour at Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva. You'll get to explore our all-inclusive venue, meet your potential design team and receive instant inspiration for your Fort Lauderdale celebration.Thinking About a Wedding Planner?
After you develop a budget, you should start thinking about whether you need to hire a wedding planner. Only about 30% of brides hire a wedding planner, which is evidence that this project manager is not required. The biggest question is whether you need one. If you want a wedding finance expert, deal negotiator and multitasking event organizer, a wedding planner can make the process a lot easier.
Wedding Planning 12 Months Out – Secure the Foundation
This is where the real fun begins. Lock in the key elements that will shape your wedding day.
✔ Reserve your date and book Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva
✔ Finalize estimated guest count
✔ Start researching caterers, photographers, and DJs
✔ Shop for your dress or suit
✔ Hire an officiant
Crystal Ballroom Tip: Our venue includes design, décor, and day-of coordination, so you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors. It’s Fort Lauderdale luxury—without the hassle.
9–6 Months Out – Personalize Your Day
This is your time to get creative and add your unique personality to the celebration.
✔ Choose your wedding theme and color palette
✔ Meet with our in-house design team to select linens, centerpieces, lighting & more
✔ Order and send save-the-dates
✔ Finalize your vendor team
✔ Set up hotel room blocks for guests
Crystal Ballroom Tip: Whether you're planning from across town or out of state, our team helps you plan remotely with ease. We know South Florida inside and out—and we make your vision come to life beautifully.
5–4 Months Out – Lock in the Details
✔ Finalize your menu with your caterer
✔ Book your hair and makeup team
✔ Secure transportation and wedding-day rentals
✔ Create your day-of schedule and timeline
✔ Begin working on your ceremony script and vows
Crystal Ballroom Tip: Ask about our bridal and groom suites—the perfect place to relax, sip champagne, and get ready in style on your big day.
3–2 Months Out – Invitations & Final Touches
✔ Send invitations and track RSVPs
✔ Create a seating chart
✔ Order favors, signage, and guest book
✔ Confirm delivery and arrival times with all vendors
✔ Schedule your final dress or suit fitting
Crystal Ballroom Tip: Your dedicated day-of coordinator will help you finalize timelines, organize logistics and communicate with vendors. All you have to do is show up and glow.
1 Month Out – Countdown Begins
✔ Apply for your Florida marriage license
✔ Confirm final guest count with Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva and caterer
✔ Review all details with your coordinator
✔ Start packing for your honeymoon
✔ Write thank-you notes for early gifts
Crystal Ballroom Tip: With everything under one roof—venue, design, staffing, and setup—we make this final stretch feel easy.
The Final Week, Your Wedding
✔ Attend your rehearsal dinner
✔ Pamper yourself—spa day, nails, hair, skincare
✔ Pick up attire, rings, and emergency kit items
✔ Go over final checklist with your Crystal Ballroom coordinator
✔ Take a breath. You did it!
Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva
Before you begin the journey on your wedding planning timeline, take a free tour of Crystal Ballroom On Lake Melva. Meet our designers and gain inspiration for your magical day. Plan your moments at this all-inclusive wedding venue where the furnishings, designs and banquet services are included. Planning with Crystal Ballroom gives you access to master designers, the free concierge service and an incredible team of professional vendors. Let Crystal Ballroom on Lake Melva help you design, coordinate and celebrate with confidence!
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