Planning a wedding is so exciting, but let’s be real, it can also get pretty complicated and time-consuming. With so many details to consider, it’s no surprise that couples often wonder where to even begin. We’ll explore some key considerations to help you determine the perfect starting point for your wedding planning.

Set Your Wedding Date

One of the first and most obvious decisions you’ll need to make is the date of your wedding. This choice plays a big role in mapping out your wedding planning timeline. If you have a specific date in mind, that happens to be during peak wedding season, it’s time to get a move on. Popular wedding dates tend to book up quickly, so the sooner you secure your date, the better! This decision can also be affected by your wedding venue. If you want to get married somewhere specific, you may need to be more flexible on what your exact wedding date is!

Wedding Size and Complexity

Now that you have a wedding date, let’s discuss your wedding party. The size and complexity of your wedding also plays a role in determining what’s next on your planning to do list. A close-knit celebration with a handful of loved ones might need less prep compared to a grand affair with hundreds of guests. Additionally, the more complex your wedding vision, the more time you’ll likely need to prepare. 

Availability of Vendors

Wedding vendors, such as photographers, caterers, florists, and musicians, can book up quickly, especially during the ideal wedding months. If you have your heart set on specific vendors, we recommend you research and secure their services as soon as possible. Most often couples book these high demand vendors a year, or more, in advance!

Destination Weddings

If you’re planning a destination wedding, whether it’s in a different city or an entirely different country, you’ll need more time for planning. This includes not only coordinating with local vendors, but also ensuring that your guests have enough time to make travel arrangements and secure accommodations.

DIY vs. Hiring a Wedding Planner

Are you planning to take on most of the wedding planning tasks yourself? Or do you plan to hire a professional wedding planner? Choosing the latter can simplify the process and speed up decision-making though it may be more expensive. It’s wise to start planning early, whether you’re seeking a planner or doing it all yourself. 

Personal Preferences

When it comes to planning your wedding, your timeline should be a reflection of you and your fiance’s personal preferences and how much stress you’re willing to take on. Some couples love the excitement of a long engagement and enjoy the extended wedding planning process. On the other hand there are those who prefer a shorter engagement, aiming to keep the stress levels low and decision fatigue at bay. The good news is that the choice is all yours to make!

Pro-tip

If you decide not to hire a wedding planner, we recommend hiring a day-of coordinator. This person is there to truly make sure your wedding day goes smoothly.. They oversee vendors, help make and manage the timeline, and overcome any last-minute issues. They are a HUGE part of a stress-free wedding day! While every wedding and couple is different, the ideal timeline for wedding planning is generally 12–18 months before the big day. This time frame allows you to secure your preferred vendors and venues, make thoughtful decisions, and enjoy a stress-free planning process! For a more specific breakdown, check out this blog!

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