Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experiences you’ll ever have. There are countless decisions to make, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the best vendors. But don’t worry! With proper planning and organization, you can make sure every moment of your big day is unforgettable. Here’s your step-by-step guide to planning your dream wedding.
Step 1: Get Engaged
The first step, of course, is to say “yes!” Once you’ve said yes to your partner’s proposal, you’ve officially begun your wedding planning journey. Take some time to celebrate and enjoy this special moment before diving into the details.
Step 2: Determine Your Guest Count and Budget
Before you can make any major decisions, it’s important to have a clear idea of your budget and how many guests you’d like to invite. This will help guide your decisions for the venue, catering, and overall wedding scale.
Step 3: Decide on Your Desired Location, Date(s), and Style of Wedding
Do you dream of a beach wedding, a rustic barn celebration, or a glamorous city affair? Choose the location that fits your style, and pick a date (or two, just in case!) that works for you, your partner, and key family members.
Step 4: Search and Book Your Wedding Planner
A wedding planner can be your best friend throughout the planning process. They’ll handle logistics, provide advice, and help ensure that your day runs smoothly. Start researching planners who align with your style and budget.
Step 5: Search and Book Your Ceremony and Reception Venue
Once you know your desired location and date, start booking your ceremony and reception venues. Availability can be limited, especially in peak seasons, so securing a venue early is key.
Step 6: Book Your Vendors
Now it’s time to start booking the vendors who will bring your vision to life. The essential vendors to book are:
- Catering: Choose your menu and the style of service (buffet, plated, or family-style).
- Photographer: Hire a photographer whose style captures your vibe.
- Entertainment: Whether you want a DJ or live band, entertainment is essential.
- Beauty: Book hair and makeup artists for yourself and the bridal party.
- Hotels: Reserve room blocks for out-of-town guests.
- Transportation: Arrange transportation for you, your partner, and your bridal party.
- Florals: Work with a florist to choose arrangements that fit your theme.
- Rentals: From tables and chairs to linens, make sure all your rentals are booked.
- Officiant: Secure someone to marry you (whether religious or civil).
- Cake: Book your cake baker to design a masterpiece.
Step 7: Invite Your Wedding Party
It’s time to ask your closest friends and family members to stand by your side on your big day. Send them personalized requests to be part of your bridal party, and begin planning what they’ll wear.
Step 8: Send Save the Dates
Once your venue and date are set, send out “Save the Date” cards to your guest list. These should go out about 10-12 months before the wedding to give people plenty of time to make arrangements.
Step 9: Purchase Your Wedding Dress
Now for the fun part—shopping for your dream dress! Consider bringing along your trusted family and friends, and give yourself plenty of time for fittings and alterations.
Step 10: Schedule a Menu Tasting
It’s time to taste the food! Schedule a menu tasting with your caterer to select the perfect dishes for your big day. This is a fun way to make sure everything will taste just as amazing as it looks.
Step 11: Order Bridesmaids’ Dresses
Once you’ve chosen your wedding dress, start selecting bridesmaids’ dresses. Be sure to allow enough time for ordering and alterations.
Step 12: Book Rehearsal Dinner and/or Welcome Party Venue and Vendors
If you’re hosting a rehearsal dinner or welcome party, start searching for venues and booking vendors. This is an opportunity to relax and have fun with your loved ones before the big day.
Step 13: Order Invitations
Work with a stationery designer or online provider to order your wedding invitations. You’ll want to send these out about 8-10 weeks before the wedding. Be sure to include all the important details, such as the ceremony and reception locations and times.
Step 14: Order Groom and Groomsmen Attire
Just like your bridesmaids, the groom and groomsmen will need to choose their attire. Be sure to place any rental orders or purchases well in advance.
Step 15: Do Your Hair and Makeup Trial
Schedule a trial with your hairstylist and makeup artist to perfect your wedding day look. This is a great chance to see how your vision comes together and make any necessary changes.
Step 16: Schedule Dress Fittings
After you’ve purchased your wedding dress, schedule fittings to ensure it fits perfectly. Typically, you’ll need two to three fittings before the wedding day.
Step 17: Work With Your Planner to Build Your Wedding Day Timeline, Floor Plan, and Finalize Fine Details
Work closely with your wedding planner to create a detailed wedding day timeline, finalize the floor plan, and review any last-minute details. This will ensure everyone knows where to be and when, making the day go off without a hitch.
Step 18: Pack and Prepare Final Wedding Day Attire and Decor Items
A few days before the wedding, pack up everything you’ll need for the big day—your wedding attire, accessories, decor, and any other special items.
Step 19: Rehearse and Enjoy the Rehearsal Dinner and/or Welcome Party
Rehearse your ceremony with your wedding party so everyone knows their roles. Then, enjoy your rehearsal dinner or welcome party with family and friends.
Step 20: Happy Wedding Day!
The big day has finally arrived! Follow your timeline, enjoy every moment, and most importantly, celebrate your love. You’ve done the hard work—now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Congratulations on your wedding day!
Xoxo,
The WPP Team
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