Planning A Wedding: When Should You Start?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when to start planning a wedding. Some couples elope after a few weeks of preparing, while others spend two years or more getting their big day just right. The average couple is engaged for 13 months, and some sources suggest that one year is a good length of time to plan a wedding. However, destination weddings can take between 12 to 18 months to plan, and some couples plan their weddings in six months or less. It's important to choose a timeline that works for you and your partner, and to give yourself time to simply enjoy being engaged.

Enjoy being engaged and take time to discuss your vision

It is important to enjoy being engaged and to take the time to discuss your vision for the wedding. The average couple is engaged for 13 months, and wedding planning can be a lengthy process, so there is no need to rush. Enjoy the feeling of being newly engaged and spend time celebrating with your partner. You can also use this time to throw an engagement party and share the news with your loved ones.

Take this time to discuss your vision for the wedding with your partner. Talk about the general engagement length you are both hoping for and the type of wedding you want to have. Do you want a large celebration with all your friends and family, or a more intimate gathering? What are your must-haves for the day? It is also a good idea to discuss your budget and how much you are willing to spend. Your budget will impact many decisions, from the venue to the catering and the vendors.

During this period, you can also start to browse wedding photos and vendors to get a sense of what is available and what suits your style. You can create a wedding planning checklist to help keep track of tasks and ensure you are both on the same page. However, remember that your preferences and ideas may change over time, so it is important to be flexible and adapt your plans as needed.

While it can be tempting to start planning right away, giving yourself and your partner time to simply enjoy being engaged is essential. This will allow you to savour the moment and ensure you are both ready to embark on the wedding planning journey when the time comes.

Create a budget and guest list

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet challenging task. While it can be tempting to dive straight into the planning process, it is important to take some time to simply enjoy being engaged. Many couples wait at least a month before starting to plan their wedding, with the average engagement lasting around 13 months.

One of the first steps in wedding planning is creating a budget and estimating the number of guests. This is crucial, as the size of your guest list will significantly impact your budget and overall costs. Here are some key considerations for creating your budget and guest list:

• Discuss financial contributions and priorities: Start by identifying who will be contributing financially to the wedding, such as yourself, your partner, and your parents. Have open and honest conversations about how much each party can contribute. It is also essential to discuss everyone's priorities and must-haves for the wedding. This includes factors such as the venue, catering, attire, flowers, music, and photography. Be sure to also consider any daily expenses and future costs, such as rent, debt, or future plans for a home or medical expenses.
• Determine the wedding size and guest list: The number of guests you invite will have a direct impact on your budget. Consider whether you prefer a more intimate gathering or a larger celebration. Keep in mind that a larger guest list will result in higher costs, especially for catering, as food and liquor are typically charged on a per-head basis. If your parents or others are contributing financially, they may also have input on the guest list.
• Research and compare prices: Before finalising your guest list, research and compare prices from different vendors, including venues, caterers, photographers, and entertainment options. This will give you a better understanding of the costs involved and help you create a more accurate budget.
• Consider the location and time of year: The location of your wedding can significantly impact the overall cost. Weddings in certain states or cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, or tourist destinations, tend to be more expensive. Additionally, consider the time of year and season, as peak travel seasons or popular wedding months may result in higher prices.
• Prioritize and allocate your budget: Once you have an estimated guest list and a better understanding of the costs, start allocating your budget accordingly. Identify the areas that are most important to you and your partner, such as photography, entertainment, or a dream venue. Be sure to include essential costs such as venue rental, catering, stationery, transportation, and any additional entertainment or unique experiences you wish to provide for your guests.
• Be flexible and realistic: Remember that your budget and guest list may need to be adjusted as you plan. Be flexible and realistic, and avoid falling in love with a particular venue or vendor before discussing prices. It is important to stay organised and keep track of your budget, priorities, and spending to ensure you don't overextend yourself financially.

Creating a budget and guest list is a crucial step in wedding planning, and it is important to take the time to consider all the factors involved. By following these steps and staying organised, you can create a budget and guest list that aligns with your vision and financial capabilities.

Research and book vendors

Wedding planning can be a daunting task, but taking it step by step can help you stay organized and ensure that you don't miss out on any important details. One of the crucial aspects of wedding planning is researching and booking vendors, and here's a guide to help you navigate this process:

Researching Vendors:

• Start by determining your needs: Before you begin your search, identify the specific vendors you will require. This includes essential vendors such as a caterer, photographer, florist, and entertainment. Consider your vision for the wedding and decide if you will need additional vendors like a videographer, wedding planner, hair and makeup artists, cake baker, or any unique additions like a photo booth or live performers.
• Ask for recommendations: Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family can be a great starting point. Inquire about their experiences with various vendors and ask if they have any suggestions for reliable, talented professionals.
• Online research: Utilize online resources such as wedding blogs, vendor directories, and review websites. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients can provide valuable insights into the quality of a vendor's work and their level of professionalism.
• Consider your style and budget: As you browse vendors, pay attention to their style and specialty. Look for vendors whose aesthetic aligns with your vision for the wedding. Additionally, be mindful of your budget and seek vendors who offer services within your price range.
• Attend wedding fairs: Wedding fairs and exhibitions are excellent opportunities to meet vendors in person and get a sense of their work. You can discuss your ideas, ask questions, and gather information to make informed decisions.

Booking Vendors:

• Timing: The timing of your booking will depend on the length of your engagement. Vendors typically book up about a year in advance, so if you have a longer engagement, you may have more flexibility. However, if your wedding is in high demand, such as during peak season, you may need to book further in advance.
• Prioritize essential vendors: When it comes to booking, prioritize the vendors that are crucial to your wedding. For example, if you have a dream photographer or a caterer whose cuisine you adore, reach out to them first to secure their services for your desired date.
• Contracts and payments: Once you've found vendors you're interested in, inquire about their availability and pricing. Be sure to review contracts carefully before signing, and understand the payment terms, including deposits and payment schedules.
• Communication and organization: Effective communication with your vendors is essential. Respond to their emails or inquiries promptly and maintain open lines of communication throughout the planning process. Keep all your vendor-related documents, receipts, and contracts organized in a central location for easy reference.
• Be flexible: Remember that your first choice of vendor may not always be available. Be prepared to be flexible and have backup options. Additionally, be open to negotiating on certain aspects, such as specific services included in a package, to ensure you stay within your budget.

Remember, the key to successful vendor booking is to start your research early, be organized, and trust your instincts when it comes to choosing vendors who align with your vision and budget.

Choose a location and venue

The venue is one of the most important decisions in the wedding planning process. It sets the stage for the entire celebration and allows you to determine a date based on availability. It's essential to allocate a portion of your overall wedding budget to the venue, as the cost will vary depending on location, amenities, and included items. Some venues include essentials like tables and chairs in their pricing, while others charge extra. In-house catering, decor, and floral design can also increase the cost.

When choosing a location and venue, consider the following:

• Your vision and theme: The venue should align with the style and theme of your wedding. For example, a rustic theme may be better suited to a park, barn, or ranch rather than a luxury hotel.
• Guest count: Have an estimate of your guest count before venue shopping to ensure the space can accommodate your expected number of attendees. You don't want a venue that is too large or too small for your guest list.
• Location and accessibility: Consider how easy it is for your guests to get to the venue, especially if it is a destination wedding. Clear directions and straightforward travel instructions are essential for out-of-town guests. Additionally, ask about the accessibility of facilities, including entrances, exits, elevators, bathrooms, parking, and seating options.
• Availability and timing: It is recommended to book your venue a year to nine months in advance to secure your desired wedding date. Starting your search early maximizes availability and gives you a wider range of options.
• Included items and restrictions: Find out exactly what the venue provides and what restrictions they may have. For example, some venues may have rules about candles, live music, or pets. Inquire about setup and tear-down times, curfews, noise restraints, and whether you can use your own vendors or if you must use their in-house options.
• Reviews and instincts: Read reviews from past couples who have held their weddings at the venue to gain additional insights. Ultimately, choose a venue that feels right and aligns with your vision. Trust your instincts and select a venue where you can envision celebrating your special day.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a location and venue for your wedding. It depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the overall vision for your dream day.

Plan the finer details

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet challenging task. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, here are some detailed suggestions to help you plan the finer details of your big day:

Plan Early

While it's tempting to dive straight into wedding planning, experts recommend savouring the "just engaged" feeling for at least a month before actively planning. This period allows you to simply enjoy your engagement, discuss your vision and priorities, and make initial decisions such as setting a budget and choosing a wedding date. However, if you're planning a destination wedding, it's best to start planning as soon as possible due to the additional complexities involved.

Determine Your Timeline

The length of your engagement is a personal choice. Some couples prefer a shorter engagement to maintain excitement and momentum, while others opt for a longer engagement to enjoy a slower planning pace and have more time to make decisions. On average, couples are engaged for about 13 months, and wedding planning experts suggest that it typically takes around one year to plan a wedding. However, destination weddings can take 12 to 18 months, and some couples may spend two years or more planning their dream day.

Guest List and Budget

Your budget and guest list are interconnected and form the foundation of your planning. The number of guests affects catering and venue costs, and if your parents or others are contributing financially, they may have input on the guest list. Consider the type of wedding experience you want—an intimate gathering or a grand celebration—and work within your budget to create a guest list that includes those you truly want to celebrate with.

Venue and Vendors

When it comes to venues and vendors, timing is crucial. Vendors typically book up about a year in advance, so starting your research and enquiries early increases your chances of securing your preferred options. If you have a long engagement, you may have more flexibility with vendor availability, but it's important to remember that your preferences and circumstances may change over time.

Organisation and Collaboration

Stay organised by using tools like wedding planning apps, checklists, and virtual or physical notebooks to keep track of documents, receipts, and brochures. Collaborate with your partner by dividing tasks and involving them in the planning process to ensure that the day reflects both of your visions and must-haves.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to wedding planning. The key is to find a process and timeline that work for you and your partner, allowing you to create a day that celebrates your unique journey together.

Frequently asked questions