How to Start Planning your Wedding

Congrats, you’re engaged!

Before your Start…

There are a few things you should keep in mind when starting to plan your wedding:

First off, guest count shapes your catering and venue budget.
Second, keep in mind socials often showcase styled shoots, not real budgets.
Focus on celebrating your love together, chasing every trend can be tempting but it may not age well and it’s better to be true to yourselves.
It’s okay to feel overwhelwed – take breaks, lean on loved ones and trust your vendors.

6 Steps to Start Planning your Wedding

Set your Priorities & Guest List

The first step to planning your wedding is figuring out what truly matters to you as a couple. Sit down together and create a list of your top priorities—whether it’s having an intimate outdoor ceremony, great food, or dancing the night away with all your loved ones. At the same time, draft a preliminary guest list. The number of guests you plan to invite will impact almost every aspect of your wedding, from the size of the venue to your catering costs. Having a clear vision and guest count will help set the foundation for your planning.

Establish your Budget

Once you have an idea of your priorities and guest count, it’s time to set your budget. This is one of the most important steps in wedding planning because your budget will determine what’s possible and help you make realistic decisions. Start with your total budget and consider contributions from family, if applicable. Remember to set aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected costs, such as tips, permits, or last-minute additions. A clear and realistic budget will keep you grounded as you move forward.

Allocate Vendor Budget

Now that you have your total budget, break it down into specific categories. Think about how much you want to allocate to major vendors like your venue, photographer, catering, and entertainment. Use your priorities list to guide your decisions—for example, if photography is your top priority, allocate a larger portion of your budget there. At the same time, research average costs in your area to ensure your expectations align with industry standards. This step is crucial for staying organized and avoiding overspending.

Find Inspiration & Research Vendors

This is where the fun begins! Dive into Pinterest, Instagram, and wedding blogs to gather inspiration for your big day. Once you’ve envisioned the overall vibe and style you want, start researching vendors who align with your aesthetic and budget. Look at their portfolios, read reviews, and shortlist a few favorites. Finding vendors who truly understand your vision will make all the difference in bringing your wedding dreams to life.

Book your Vendors

After narrowing down your list of vendors, it’s time to secure your favorites. Popular vendors, especially photographers, planners, and venues, tend to book up quickly—often over a year in advance. Once you’ve made your decision, reach out to finalize contracts and make deposits to lock in your date. Getting your top vendors booked early will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on the smaller details later.

Stay in Touch

As your wedding day approaches, maintaining good communication with your vendors is key. Share updates, confirm timelines, and be clear about any specific requests or changes. Trust your vendors and use their expertise, don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns. Regular communication ensures everyone is on the same page and helps everything run smoothly on the big day.

The Key is to Stay Organized

By following these six steps, you’ll have a solid framework for planning your wedding. Remember to take things one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or take breaks when needed. Most importantly, keep your focus on celebrating your love—because that’s what your wedding day is all about!