As the excitement of your engagement settles in, you might feel a mix of joy and overwhelm as you think about where to begin. Don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through the early stages of wedding planning, helping you kick off this journey with ease and excitement.
Set a Vision for Your Day
Before diving into the details, it is important to set a clear vision for your wedding day. This will serve as your guiding star throughout the planning process.
Sit down with your partner and discuss your ideas and priorities. Do you envision a big, traditional wedding or an intimate, laid-back celebration? What are your non-negotiables—like the venue, the overall vibe, or the guest list? Having a clear vision will help you make decisions more easily as you move forward.
Create a Budget (and Stick to It)
Your budget will influence every decision you make, from the venue to the guest list to the dress. Setting a realistic budget early on will help you avoid overspending and ensure that your wedding is both beautiful and affordable.
Start by determining how much you can comfortably spend. If applicable, consider contributions from family members. Break down your budget into categories—venue, catering, attire, flowers, etc.—and allocate funds to each. Keep a buffer for unexpected expenses.
We have many articles that cover money, but you might find the below helpful for further reading.
Further Reading:
How to Plan Your Wedding Budget
Money Saving Tips – How to Look After Your Wedding Budget
Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner
If managing all the details feels overwhelming, a wedding planner can be a lifesaver. They can take the stress out of planning, offer expert advice, and help you stay on track.
Research wedding planners in your area or the area where you’d like to get married and set up initial consultations. Discuss your budget, vision, and any concerns. A good wedding planner will listen to your needs, be honest when you need a dose of reality, and provide a tailored service to help you ultimately create the wedding of your dreams.
Further Reading:
A Guide to Hiring a Wedding Planner
Choose a Wedding Date and Venue
The date and venue are two of the most important decisions you’ll make. They will set the tone for your entire wedding and influence other key decisions.
Consider whether you have a specific season in mind or are flexible with your date. Keep in mind that popular venues book up quickly, so if you have a specific location in mind, reach out as soon as possible. When choosing a venue, consider the size, location, style, and the services they offer. Do you want a countryside manor, a chic urban space, or a coastal retreat? Once you’ve secured your venue, your wedding date will likely fall into place. Our Venue Finder is a great place to start!
Further Reading:
25 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue
How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue Style for Your Big Day
The Hidden Costs of Wedding Venues
Build Your Guest List
Your guest list will affect your venue choice, budget, and overall wedding experience. It’s important to start working on it early to avoid surprises later.
Draft a list of everyone you’d like to invite, then review it with your partner and families. Be prepared to adjust to fit your budget and venue capacity. Remember, the more guests you have, the higher the costs, so prioritise those who matter most to you.
Research and Book Key Suppliers
The suppliers you choose will help bring your wedding vision to life. Popular suppliers like photographers, caterers, and florists can book up months (or even years) in advance, so it’s wise to reach out as soon as you have a date and venue.
Start by researching suppliers in your area or those who specialise in your wedding style. Look at reviews, portfolios, and social media to get a sense of their work—schedule consultations to discuss your vision and see if you click with them. Once you’ve found the right suppliers, book them to secure your date.
Further Reading:
Choosing Your Wedding Suppliers
Questions to Ask Potential Wedding Suppliers
Start Thinking About Your Wedding Attire
Finding the perfect wedding attire can take time, especially if you have something custom-made or need alterations. Starting early ensures you have plenty of time to find (or create) your dream look.
For inspiration, begin by browsing bridal shops, online collections, and wedding platforms or digital magazines. If you’re shopping for a wedding dress, aim to start trying on dresses about 9-12 months before your wedding date. For grooms, consider whether you’ll rent, buy, or have a suit tailored. Don’t forget about the wedding party’s attire!
Stay Organised
With so many details to manage, staying organised will help you keep track of everything and reduce stress.
Invest in a wedding planning binder or use digital tools like spreadsheets and planning apps to keep everything in one place. Make a timeline and checklist of key tasks and set reminders for when things need to be done. Regularly review your budget and guest list to ensure everything is on track.
Enjoy the Process
Wedding planning can be stressful but should also be a time of joy and excitement. It’s a chance to create memories with your partner, family, and friends as you prepare for one of the most special days of your life.
Take breaks when needed, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember that this day is about celebrating your love, so focus on what truly matters. Schedule fun planning activities like cake tastings, venue visits, or just getting away from it all! A pre-wedding mini-moon, if you will.
Further Reading:
How to Plan Your Wedding As a Team
Starting your wedding planning in September gives you plenty of time to create a celebration that’s uniquely yours. By setting a clear vision, staying organised, and enjoying the journey, you’ll be well on your way to planning a wedding that reflects your story. Remember, this is your day—plan it in a way that makes you and your partner happy, and everything else will fall into place.