How to Plan a Wedding Step by Step: Start Here

How to Plan a Wedding Step by Step – Where to Start?!

Planning a wedding can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming… If you’re asking yourself how to plan a wedding step by step, you’re not alone! From creating a guest list to finding the perfect vendors, this guide will break down the process, ensuring your big day goes off without a hitch. Follow these steps to get started and make your dream wedding a reality!

1. Establish Your Guest List

The first step in how to plan a wedding step by step is to establish your guest list. Your guest list will determine your venue size, your overall budget, and the style of wedding you have in mind based on financials. It’s essential to figure out how many people you want to invite early on. Remember each person has a $$$ above their head. 

Start by listing all the people you want to invite: family, friends, and colleagues. Then prioritize your list by narrowing it down to necessity. The others are then moved to a “B” list and/or “C” list. This will help you stay within your budget and select a venue that accommodates your guests.

Highly recommend Zola for your RSVP and guest list needs.

2. Create Your Overall Budget

Once you know how many guests you’re inviting, it’s time to create your overall wedding budget. Establishing your budget is a crucial step in how to plan a wedding step by step, as it dictates everything from the venue to the vendors you hire.

Consider the following when creating your budget:

• Venue
• Catering + Beverages
• Rentals
• Photography + Videography
• Hair & Makeup
• Entertainment 
• Transportation & Accommodations
• Florals & Decor
• Planner/Coordinator

It’s always a good idea to allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected costs. Wedding expenses can add up quickly, so having a contingency fund will help you avoid financial stress.

Don’t know where to get started with the budget? No worries! Below is a my wedding budget tool that you can customize perfectly to match your planning needs and stay on track financially.

3. Define Your High-Level Vision, Vibe, and Top Priorities

When learning how to plan a wedding step by step, it’s essential to establish a clear vision for your wedding day. Define the overall vibe and tone you want your wedding to convey from a guest perspective. Do you want something modern, colorful, or romantic? Understanding your wedding’s overall vision will guide your decisions on everything from attire to décor and more. 

Once your vision is clear, then the next aspect is to identify your top priorities. For example, some couples prioritize high-end photography, while others might focus on having an epic band. Understanding what’s most important to you will help streamline the decision-making process.

4. Choose Your Venue

Choosing your venue is one of the most significant steps in how to plan a wedding step by step. Your venue will set the tone for the rest of your wedding planning. It’s essential to choose a venue that matches your style, accommodates your guest list, and fits within your budget.

When choosing a venue, consider factors like:

• Most comfortable for your guest count – not just the max
• Location and accessibility for your guests
• For any aspects outdoors, make sure you love Plan B as much as Plan A
• Available amenities like: parking, getting ready spaces, tables, chairs 
• Date availability – pick a time frame and not exact date as you’ll have more flexibility!

Be sure to visit multiple venues to get a feel for the space and ensure it’s the perfect fit for your big day.

Is the venue search feeling daunting already? I got you! Below is my list of questions to ask your venue to ensure you are booking the perfect location for your day.

5. Hire Non-Design Related Wedding Vendors

Once you’ve locked in the venue, the next step is hiring non-design related wedding vendors. These key vendors can help set the tone for the day. So, you want to make sure they are the perfect fit personality-wise, style, and aligns with your priorities. Some key vendors to consider include:

• Photographer and videographer: Choose someone whose film style matches yours along with how they interact with you. They are with you the longest on the wedding day, besides your planner. Personality matching matters!

• Entertainment: When weighing the pros and cons of band vs DJ, always take into account your guests and dancing priority. If they don’t match the crowd energy, then you’ll end up with an empty dance floor.

• Hair and makeup artists: Ensure you’re selecting professionals that can accomplish the look you’re wanting, whether that be natural or glam. Never go into the big day without having a trial!

• Accommodations: Pick up to three different locations with three different price points to be able to cater to all budgets for your guests.

Want the whole list of questions in one bundle? Below is my ultimate list of questions to ask your initial wedding vendors all the right questions to create your dream team.

6. When in Doubt, Hire a Wedding Planner

If all of these steps seem overwhelming, don’t worry! Hiring a wedding planner can take the stress out of how to plan a wedding step by step – because they are always three steps ahead. A wedding planner will help with everything from selecting the best vendors to staying on schedule and within budget. They are experts in the field and can help you navigate any challenges that arise during the planning process. They know all the right questions to ask, can make sure you don’t commit to something that may not be right for you, and will constantly have your back to ensure your vision comes to life all while enjoying the ride.

Need a badass planner who focuses on you two as humans, untraditional experiences, and executes your wedding day your way?!?! I am your girl.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to planning a memorable wedding. Always remember why you are entering into this sacred commitment. Planning a wedding is about celebrating your love. 

Organization is key, stick to your priorities + intuition, and don’t hesitate to hire a wedding planner if you need help. Happy planning!