Just Engaged? Here’s How to Tackle Wedding Planning Without Losing Your Cool
First of all, congratulations! You’re engaged — it’s a huge deal, and you deserve to take a moment (or several) to soak it all in. Whether you’re admiring the ring, reliving the proposal, or just enjoying being in this happy bubble, don’t let anyone rush you. This is a moment worth savouring.
That said, once the champagne glasses are empty, you might be wondering where to even begin with planning a wedding. With so many decisions to make, Pinterest boards to scroll through, and spreadsheets to fill, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you’ve even started. Don’t worry; wedding planning doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach and a little bit of organization, you can plan the wedding you want and actually enjoy the process. Here’s how to kick things off.
Step 1: Enjoy the Engagement
Before you dive into the planning process, take some time to enjoy this new chapter of your life. Celebrate with your partner, toast with friends, and bask in the congratulations from family. This phase is fleeting, so make it count. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a full-blown engagement party, find a way to mark the occasion.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on hosting an engagement party, keep it light and simple. It’s not a mini-wedding — it’s just a way to celebrate the beginning of this exciting journey.
Step 2: Start with Big-Picture Decisions
It’s tempting to dive straight into Pinterest and start picking out table settings, but hold up. Before you get to the details, you need to figure out the big stuff. Sit down with your partner and talk about your vision for the wedding. Here are some questions to consider:
- What kind of wedding do we want? (Formal, casual, big, intimate, destination?)
- What’s our budget? (How much can we realistically spend, and where is the money coming from?)
- Who do we want to invite? (Start with a rough guest list to get a sense of the size.)
Once you’ve nailed down these key details, the rest of the planning will fall into place more easily.
Step 3: Build Your Wedding Toolkit
Now that you have a clearer idea of what you’re aiming for, it’s time to get organized. Wedding planning involves a lot of moving pieces, so having the right tools will make a world of difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Wedding Planner Book or App: Whether you prefer pen and paper or digital tools, find a system to track your to-dos, deadlines, and ideas.
- Spreadsheets: Yes, they’re not glamorous, but spreadsheets are your best friend. Use them for your guest list, budget breakdown, vendor contacts, and timeline.
- A Shared Folder: Create a shared Google Drive or Dropbox folder where you can store contracts, photos, and other important documents. It’s a lifesaver when you need to reference something quickly.
- Checklists: Start with a master checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything major. Tackle one task at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Step 4: Set Your Budget
Talking about money isn’t always fun, but it’s one of the most important steps in wedding planning. Your budget will shape every decision, from the venue to the flowers. Here’s how to approach it:
- Figure Out Your Total Budget: How much do you have to work with? This might include contributions from family or savings you’ve set aside.
- Prioritize: Decide what’s most important to you. Do you want to splurge on the perfect photographer or focus on an incredible meal for your guests? Knowing your priorities will help you allocate funds.
- Track Everything: Use a spreadsheet to keep tabs on your spending. Be sure to include hidden costs like taxes, gratuities, and alterations.
Step 5: Start with Your Guest List
Your guest list will influence so many aspects of your wedding, from the venue size to the catering budget. Start with a draft list that includes your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Once you’ve finalized your number, you’ll have a better idea of what kind of venues and budgets you’re working with.
Pro Tip: Don’t feel pressured to invite everyone you’ve ever met. Focus on the people who matter most to you and your partner.
Step 6: Book Your Venue and Set the Date
Your venue and wedding date are two of the biggest decisions you’ll make, so tackle these early on. Once you’ve locked in a venue, you’ll have a date to plan around, and you can start booking other vendors.
When searching for a venue, keep these tips in mind:
- Think About Logistics: How many guests can it accommodate? Is it accessible for everyone? What’s the parking situation?
- Understand the Costs: Does the venue provide tables, chairs, and linens, or will you need to rent them? Are there any additional fees?
- Visit in Person: Photos are helpful, but visiting the space will give you a better sense of whether it’s the right fit.
Step 7: Assemble Your Vendor Dream Team
Once you have a venue, it’s time to book your vendors. These professionals will bring your vision to life, so choose wisely. Here’s a list of key vendors to consider:
- Photographer and Videographer
- Caterer
- Florist
- Band or DJ
- Officiant
- Hair and Makeup Artist
- Wedding Planner or Day-of Coordinator (if needed)
When meeting with vendors, ask lots of questions, read reviews, and always get everything in writing.
Step 8: Personalize the Details
Now comes the fun part: making the wedding uniquely yours. Think about how you want the day to look and feel. From your colour palette to the menu, this is where your personality can shine. Here are some ways to personalize your wedding:
- Incorporate meaningful elements: Include cultural traditions, family heirlooms, or personal touches that reflect your story as a couple.
- DIY Wisely: If you love crafting, DIY projects can add a personal touch. Just be sure to leave yourself enough time and don’t overcommit.
- Think About Guest Experience: How can you make the day enjoyable for your guests? Consider interactive food stations, comfy seating areas, or a killer playlist.
Step 9: Finalize the Logistics
As the big day approaches, it’s time to iron out the details. Here are some key tasks to tackle:
- Create a timeline for the day.
- Confirm arrival times with vendors.
- Assign roles to your wedding party.
- Pack an emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, band-aids, and tissues.
Step 10: Take Care of Yourself
Wedding planning can be all-consuming, so don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way. Make time for date nights, lean on friends and family for support, and don’t sweat the small stuff. At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating your relationship, not achieving perfection.
Final Thoughts
Planning a wedding is a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By starting with the big decisions, staying organized, and focusing on what matters most, you can create a day that feels authentic to you and your partner. Remember to enjoy the journey — this is a time you’ll look back on with fond memories, so make it count.
Further Reading
Celebrate Your Engagement in Style: Custom Invitations and More
18 Photos That Will Make You Say Yes To Floral Bridesmaid Dresses
