Newly engaged? First of all, congrats! Wondering where to begin on the planning journey ahead? Our BFFs over at Here Comes the Guide have got you covered! They’ve thought of everything and come up with the handiest of guides. Consider it a Wedding Planning Starter Kit that we just added to your tool box. You’ll thank us later.
How to Start Planning a Wedding
via Here Comes the Guide
Step 1 : Bask In Engaged Bliss
No, we’re not talking a formal engagement party here. We’re talking about taking a little time to revel in your engagement before diving headfirst into the stressful world of wedding planning. Why? Because it’s a monumental event in and of itself that should be celebrated! Even if you just go out for a nice dinner with your newly-minted fiancé or enjoy a casual BBQ with the fam-bam, be sure to acknowledge and appreciate your engagement before moving on to Step 2.
Photo: Makenna Brooke Photography
Step 2 : Snag Our Checklist
Yes, our wedding planning checklist rocks. And it even comes with a super-cute printable PDF. So print it out, 3-hole punch it, and get that wedding binder started!
Grab your checklist here or find your copy in your swag bag at The Big Fake Wedding!
Photo: Cassandra Isbell Photography
Step 3 : Set A Budget
Weddings cost beaucoup bucks. And it’s a good idea to figure out how much you can realistically afford to spend without going broke—or into debt. This Budget Checklist will help with that.
Photo: Lauren Laboyteaux Photography
Step 4 : Start The Guest List
Weddings are basically a big PARTY! So, who’s gonna be invited to yours? Check out these tips for tackling your guest list.
Photo: Cassandra Isbell Photography
Step 5 : Find Your Wedding Style
How are you supposed to commit to a glam wedding when you’re tempted by a beach ceremony one minute, and tantalized by a barn reception the next? Head over here to zero in on your wedding style.
Photo: Avery Earl
Step 6 : Find Your Venue & Set That Date!
We’ve got the inside scoop on thousands of fabulous wedding venues, from contemporary galleries to rolling vineyards to chic ballrooms and everything in between. We’ve also armed you with a list of questions to ask your wedding venue when you go on those site visits! Find a wedding venue near you!
Photo: Clara Rice Photography
Step 7 : Research Vendors
If you’re already feeling overwhelmed, you may want to consider hiring a wedding planner. (Search for local planners in your area) And if you want to take engagement photos, now’s the time to find a photographer!
Want to meet your vendors in person, hugs their necks, and get a vibe for how you would really work together? See the best local vendors in-action at The Big Fake Wedding! Grab your tickets here!
BOOM. You’ve just graduated Wedding Planning 101.
There’s plenty more where that came from on Here Comes The Guide, so browse our articles + ideas, swoon over real weddings, and much more!
