Everything You Need To Start Planning Your Wedding

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll embark on, but let’s be real—it can also be a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, having a clear plan in place is essential. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s dive into everything you need to start planning your dream wedding!

Set Your Budget

First and foremost, you’ll need to set a budget. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend will guide every decision from here on out. It might not be the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but it’s definitely one of the most important.

• Break down your budget by categories such as venue, catering, attire, entertainment, and decor.
• Allocate a little extra for unforeseen expenses. Typically, 5-10% of your total budget.
  Example:
  • Venue: 40%
  • Food & Beverage: 25%
  • Photography & Videography: 15%
  • Attire: 10%
  • Decor: 5%
  • Miscellaneous: 5%

Get Inspired

Start gathering inspiration from wedding blogs, Pinterest, and Instagram. Create a mood board or a Pinterest board where you can visualize your ideas. Think about themes, colors, and styles that resonate with you and your partner.

• Follow wedding hashtags like #WeddingInspiration, #BridalStyle, and #WeddingThemes on social media.
• Create a physical or digital mood board to consolidate your ideas.

Create a Guest List

Before you start venue hunting, you’ll need a rough idea of your guest list. Your budget and guest count will help you determine the kind of venue you’ll need and the overall scale of your celebration.

• Make an A-list (must-have guests) and a B-list (nice-to-have guests) to prioritize.
• Consider the capacity of potential venues when finalizing your list.

Choose Your Venue

With your budget and guest list in hand, start scouting venues that fit your vision and can accommodate your guest count. Consider the location, amenities, and the overall vibe of the venue. Remember, this is where all your cherished memories will be made!

• Visit venues during the same season as your wedding date to see how it will look on the day.
• Ask about packages and what’s included (e.g., catering, decor, sound systems).

Hire Your Vendors

Your vendors play a critical role in bringing your wedding vision to life. From photographers and caterers to florists and DJs, make sure to book reputable vendors whose style aligns with yours. Don’t forget to check reviews and ask for recommendations!

• Have a clear contract that outlines the services, payment schedule, and cancellation policies.
• Schedule vendor meetings and discuss your vision and expectations clearly.

Plan the Details

Now comes the fun part—planning the details! This includes everything from invitations and décor to wedding attire and the ceremony program. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through the details.

• Write personal vows to add a unique touch to the ceremony.
• Consider DIY projects for custom decorations and favors.

Create a Timeline

Having a timeline will keep you organized and ensure that no detail is overlooked. Include important dates like dress fittings, vendor meetings, and, of course, the big day itself!

• Create a detailed day-of timeline that includes key moments like your first look, ceremony, and reception activities.
• Share the timeline with your vendors and bridal party to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Take Care of the Legalities

Don’t forget the legal side of things! Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork for your marriage license and any other legal requirements in your area. This is a step often overlooked but crucial to making it official.

• Research the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your locality.
• Plan to apply for your license a month or two before the wedding date to avoid any last-minute rush.

Relax and Enjoy the Process

Finally, remember to take a step back and enjoy the process. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but don’t forget to savor the moments leading up to your wedding day. After all, your wedding is about celebrating your love and the start of a new chapter in your lives.

• Schedule downtime and pamper sessions for yourself to stay relaxed.
• Delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members to lighten your load.

Now, you should have everything you need to get started in the epic story of planning your wedding. But it doesn’t stop there–we have so much more inspiration to help you along your journey to the aisle. Check out some of our Real Weddings. And remember we are always here to help so don’t hesitate to Contact Us!