Where to Start When Planning Your Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, with so many details, decisions, and possibilities. But before diving into vendor research and Pinterest boards, it helps to begin with a clear foundation. This guide will walk you through the essential first steps to ensure that  you’re building your wedding on a vision that reflects who you are as a couple. These steps are designed to simplify the process and help reduce stress throughout your wedding planning journey. 

Here’s how to start your wedding planning journey with clarity, confidence, and excitement.

1. Set a Vision: Start with the Big Picture

"What’s the Vision for Your Big Day?"

Before diving into the details of wedding planning, it’s crucial to take a step back and think about what truly matters to you both.” 

Ask yourselves:

• “What are the three things that would make our wedding day feel perfect?”

• “Do we envision an intimate gathering with close friends and family, or a larger celebration with everyone we know?”

• “What kind of atmosphere or vibe do we want to create—romantic, modern, rustic, or something else?”

It’s easy to want to dive into venues right away, but first, think about the type of wedding you want: indoors or outdoors? What facilities do you need? How many guests will you invite? These factors will help guide your venue search.

When you start with a clear vision, you avoid getting distracted by trends or pressure from others. It keeps you aligned and focused on what’s truly meaningful for you both. By doing this you’ll find that the rest of your wedding planning falls into place more naturally. It will also be a guide for selecting everything from your venue to your vendors, ensuring each element reflects your true preferences. 

Your wedding vision is your compass. A well-defined moodboard can serve as your roadmap

Taking the time to set your vision early on will give you clarity, helping to make each choice—whether it’s the venue, the vendor, or the guest list—reflect your unique love story.

So, What’s the one thing that’s most important to you both on your wedding day?

2. Establish Your Budget and Stick to It

"How Much Should You Spend on Your Wedding?"

Your budget is the foundation of your wedding planning. It will influence every decision you make, from the venue to the smallest details. It’s helpful to start by researching the average costs of weddings in your area. Use this as a benchmark, then decide on a total budget that feels comfortable for you, taking into account your current financial situation and future goals

Here’s how to start:

• Begin by determining how much you can comfortably spend without compromising other financial goals.

  
  

• Consider who may be contributing to the budget and any specific expectations they might have, so everyone’s on the same page from the start.

  
  

• For example, if you prioritise food and entertainment, you might allocate 40% of your budget to catering and entertainment, while leaving 20% for decor and 10% for photography. This helps ensure your money goes toward what matters most to you.

Establishing a budget not only keeps you grounded financially but also simplifies decision-making. With a clear budget in mind, you’ll be able to easily decide whether a venue or vendor is a good fit. 

Remember, a well-planned budget ensures that you stay within your means, allowing you to enjoy your day without financial stress. Stick to it as closely as possible to avoid unexpected surprises

3. Build a Timeline (And Expect a Few Surprises)

"When Should You Book Each Vendor?"

A wedding involves many moving parts, and having a timeline is essential to staying organised and on track. Whether you have 12 months or just a few weeks, a solid plan will help you manage all the details without feeling overwhelmed. Please note that timelines vary for different couples, but here’s a basic guide to consider:

• 12+ months out: Book your venue and set your date.

• 8-12 months out: Hire your key vendors, such as photographer, caterer, and florist. These professionals often book up quickly, so securing them early ensures you get your first choices.

• 6-8 months out: Finalise your guest list and send save-the-dates.

• 3-4 months out: Finalise details with your vendors and plan your ceremony.

There are plenty of free tools and apps available, like wedding planning apps or spreadsheets, that can help you keep track of your timeline and to-do list.

While this basic timeline serves as a guideline, be prepared for changes. Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Flexibility is key to ensuring a stress-free planning process.

As you build your timeline, think about which steps might require more time or attention. Have you considered what tasks might need to be tackled first?

Need help delegating tasks?

See Tip 2 Delegate wisely and Let Go on our blog- 5 Stress-Free Wedding Planning Tips Every Couple Should Know

4. Prioritise Your Guest List

"Who Should Be on Your Guest List?"

Creating a guest list is often one of the more challenging aspects of planning. Your guest list is one of the most significant factors in shaping your wedding day. It affects your budget, venue, and, ultimately, the kind of celebration you’ll have.

Here’s how to approach it:

• Start by drafting a preliminary list of everyone you’d like to invite. Next, categorise them by groups—immediate family, close friends, extended family, and colleagues. Seeing guests in these categories makes it easier to decide who truly matters most to you.

  
  

• If you already have a venue in mind, keep its capacity and your budget in focus. These practical factors can help you refine your list to fit your vision and resources.

  
  

• Narrowing down your guest list may feel tough, but remember that prioritising close connections will create a warm, personal atmosphere. Be honest with yourselves about who you truly want by your side to celebrate this meaningful day.

It’s your day, so focus on inviting those who genuinely celebrate and support your journey. Ask yourselves: Who are the people we couldn’t imagine our day without?

5. Find the Perfect Venue

Your venue is more than just a location—it sets the atmosphere for your entire day and affects many other decisions, from decor to logistics.

Before you tour venues, outline your needs and prepare to ask questions to clarify whether the venue is a right fit for you both:

• Capacity: Think about your guest list size. Does the venue comfortably accommodate everyone on your list without feeling cramped?”

• Theme and Style: Look at the venue’s existing aesthetic. Does its ambiance align with your theme, whether that’s classic, rustic, or modern? Will it enhance the atmosphere you’re envisioning?”

• Budget: Review not only the venue’s base price but also additional fees like cleanup, rentals, or service charges. What’s included in the venue package, and will it fit comfortably within your budget?

  
  

As you tour different venues, try to picture how your vision would come to life in each space. Stay open to new ideas—you might find inspiration in places you hadn’t considered before.

Booking your venue early is key, as popular spots often fill up a year or more in advance. Once it’s secured, you’ll have a clear foundation, making it easier to move forward with other details.

Finding the perfect venue can take time, but once you do, you’ll have the ideal backdrop to bring your wedding dreams to life.

Don’t Forget to Breathe and Enjoy the Process

Amid all the planning, it’s easy to get caught up in the details and lose sight of the why. Take time to focus on what you’re building together and embrace the journey.

Here are some ways to keep it joyful:

• Take breaks together: Plan a date night with a “no wedding talk” rule.

• Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks or bring on a coordinator if it feels overwhelming.

• Celebrate milestones: Each step—like booking the venue or finalising the guest list—is an achievement worth celebrating!

In Summary

Starting your wedding planning journey is exciting, and with a clear vision, realistic budget, organised timeline, and support from the right vendors, you’ll be set up for success. Remember, your day is about celebrating your unique love story. By focusing on what matters most to you, you’ll create an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.

Need Help?

With expertise in creating seamless, stress-free weddings, we understand every couple’s journey is unique, and we’d be honoured to be a part of yours. Reach out to us, we’re here to help at every step. Visit us at www.onthedaywcs.co.uk or follow us on Instagram at @onthedaywc.