Wedding Planning Guide
Your complete guide to planning the perfect wedding. From setting your date to the big day, we'll help you stay organized and stress-free throughout your wedding planning journey.
Wedding Planning Timeline
Choose your perfect wedding date and start planning backwards
- Consider weather and season for your preferred style
- Check availability of must-have vendors and venues
- Avoid major holidays unless intentional
- Give yourself 6-12 months for planning
Establish a realistic budget and allocate funds wisely
- Venue typically takes 40-50% of budget
- Photography/videography: 10-15%
- Catering: 25-35%
- Keep 5-10% as emergency buffer
Determine your guest count to guide venue and catering decisions
- Start with immediate family and close friends
- Consider venue capacity constraints
- Account for plus-ones and children
- Create A-list and B-list if needed
Secure your dream venue early as they book up quickly
- Visit venues in person when possible
- Ask about included services and restrictions
- Understand cancellation and payment policies
- Consider backup indoor options for outdoor venues
Book essential vendors like photographer, caterer, and entertainment
- Photographer and videographer book earliest
- Read reviews and check portfolios
- Meet vendors in person or via video call
- Get everything in writing with contracts
Design your wedding aesthetic and book decorators
- Create a mood board for your theme
- Consider seasonal flower availability
- Plan lighting for evening events
- Don't forget ceremony and reception differences
Planning Tools
Complete timeline with all tasks organized by month
Track expenses and stay within your budget
Organize your guest list and track RSVPs
Typical Budget Breakdown
Venue
Reception and ceremony venues
Catering
Food, drinks, and service
Photography/Video
Professional documentation
Attire
Outfits for couple and family
Decorations
Flowers, lighting, and decor
Entertainment
Music, DJ, or live performers
Transportation
Cars, decorations, and logistics
Miscellaneous
Invitations, favors, and extras
Avoid Common Mistakes
Not setting a realistic budget
Research actual costs in your area and add 10-20% buffer
Booking vendors without contracts
Always get detailed contracts with payment schedules and cancellation terms
Leaving everything to the last minute
Start planning 6-12 months ahead and book popular vendors early
Not considering guest experience
Think about transportation, accommodation, and comfort for your guests
Ignoring weather contingencies
Always have backup plans for outdoor events