Planning a wedding can feel like you’re trying to build Ikea furniture without the instructions—lots of random pieces and no clue where to start. Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Here’s the order that keeps things from getting messy (and keeps you from blowing your budget before you even book a venue).
1. Money Talk First 💸
Not the most romantic step, but it’s the most important. Sit down, be honest, and figure out your budget. Decide what matters most to you—food, photos, or maybe the party vibe. This will be your North Star.
2. Pick a Date (or at Least a Season) 📅
You don’t need to circle a Saturday just yet, but you’ll want a general window. Fall of next year? Early spring? This makes conversations with venues and vendors way easier.
3. Lock Down the Venue 🏰
Your venue sets your date, your style, and a big chunk of your budget. Until it’s booked, everything else is just a “maybe.” Don’t buy flowers, dresses, or DJs before this. Trust me.
4. Grab the Must-Have Vendors Before They’re Gone 🎶📸
The good ones book fast. Think:
- Officiant (you literally can’t get married without one)
- Photographer/Videographer
- Caterer (if not included)
- DJ/Band
- Planner/Coordinator (if you’re using one)
Do this right after the venue so you’re not scrambling later.
5. Ask Your Wedding Party 👯♀️
Give your people plenty of notice so they can budget, shop, and block the date. Plus, it makes it more fun to plan when you’ve got your crew.
6. Outfits, Baby 👗🤵
Dresses can take 9–12 months with shipping and alterations, so start early. Suits and bridesmaids’ looks can follow once you’ve nailed the overall vibe.
7. Send Save-the-Dates ✉️
About 6–8 months before the big day. Destination wedding? Send even earlier.
8. Sprinkle in the Fun Details 🌸🍰
Now it’s time for the creative stuff: décor, florals, cake tastings, invitations, and playlists. This is where your personalities show.
9. Plan the Flow 🕺
About 2–3 months out, work with your officiant, DJ, or planner to nail down the ceremony and reception timeline.
10. Final Countdown ⏳
Last month: confirm vendors, pay balances, and hand off a “day-of” schedule to someone other than you. Your job that day is to smile, say “I do,” and dance.
👉 Bottom line: Big stuff first (venue, vendors). Pretty stuff next (attire, décor). Small stuff last (favors, programs). Stick to that order, and you’ll save yourself a ton of stress.