Your Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide: For Local and Destination Weddings
TRAVEL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER // DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNING // DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
“I just got engaged. Now what?”
This question runs through many couples’ minds after that life-changing “yes!” moment. Congratulations on your engagement! Now, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of wedding planning, where every detail counts. From creating a realistic wedding timeline and setting your budget to selecting the perfect venue and curating your dream vendor team, the journey ahead is full of joy and decision-making.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, this blog will guide you through the essential steps, offering tips, tricks, checklists, and timelines to keep you on track. Get ready to transform your wedding vision into reality with expert advice on common issues like talking to family about money and crafting the perfect guest list.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Things To Do After Getting Engaged
- Celebrate Your Engagement
- Have the “Big Picture” Converstaion
- Set Your Budget
- After the Top 3: What’s Next?
- Create a Guest List
- Choose Your Wedding Date
- Decide on Your Venue
- Book Your Key Vendors Early
- Wedding Parties
- Start Wedding Attire Shopping
- Plan Your Ceremony
- Think About Guest Experience
- Build Your Wedding Timeline
- Plan the Little Details
- Legal and Logistial To-Dos
- Take Care of Yourselves
- Finalize and Celebrate
- Your Simplified Wedding Planning Timeline
TOP 3 THINGS TO DO AFTER GETTING ENGAGED
1. Celebrate Your Engagement
Take a moment to soak in the joy of being engaged. This is a special time for you and your partner, so it’s important to celebrate it thoroughly. Whether you share the news with family and friends, post on social media, or enjoy a quiet evening together, this is your time to shine!
Share Your Story
Remember to share your engagement story! Recounting how the proposal unfolded is a fun way to relive the moment. Did your partner surprise you with an elaborate proposal? Or was it a quiet, intimate moment? Either way, your story is worth telling!
Capture this special time with professional engagement photos—schedule your session with me today! These photos not only create beautiful keepsakes but also help you feel comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. The best time for engagement photos is often within a few weeks of your engagement, while the excitement is fresh. Pick a location that holds meaning to both of you, whether it’s where you first met, your favorite park, or a scenic spot that complements your wedding vibe. Make it personal and unique—this is all about celebrating your love story!
2. Have the “Big Picture” Conversation
Once the initial excitement of the engagement has settled, it’s time to sit down with your partner and talk about the “big picture” of your wedding. This is the foundation of your entire planning process, and being on the same page is crucial.
Discuss Your Vision for the Wedding
What do you and your partner want for your wedding day? Do you envision a traditional celebration with an extensive guest list, or are you leaning toward an intimate elopement with just a few loved ones? What’s the vibe you want to create? Think about the atmosphere you want to set—formal, casual, rustic, modern, romantic, or adventurous. This will help guide your venue, attire, and guest list.
If you’re unsure which type of celebration suits you best—an elopement, mini-mony, micro-wedding, or traditional wedding—check out this blog, which breaks down the differences between these options. It’s full of helpful tips and inspiration to help you decide which celebration fits your vision for the big day.
If you’re leaning towards an elopement, check out You Decided to Elope: Now What? blog I’ve written just for you! It offers the same level of detailed tips and inspiration tailored specifically for elopements to help you plan an unforgettable day.
Set Priorities
Every couple has different priorities when it comes to their wedding. For some, the venue is everything, while for others, photography or food might be the most important. Sit down together and agree on 2-3 things you won’t compromise on. This will empower you to make decisions when things get overwhelming and ensure you both get what you want.
Throughout the wedding planning process, keep open lines of communication with your partner, vendors, venue, and wedding party. Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page and can help avoid misunderstandings, giving you the confidence that everything is under control.
3. Set Your Budget
Setting a wedding budget can feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most important steps in planning your big day. By taking the time to discuss finances, prioritize what matters most, and explore creative ways to save, you can create a celebration that’s both meaningful and manageable. Whether you’re navigating conversations with family, breaking down expenses, or finding areas to DIY, this guide is here to help you stay organized and stress-free as you plan your dream wedding.
Discuss Who Contributes and How Much
Talk openly about who will be contributing financially. Will you pay for everything, or will family members be involved? Having a clear understanding of who’s contributing and how much will help prevent misunderstandings later on.
How to Talk to Family About Money
- Set the Tone Early: Be proactive about talking with family members who may be contributing. Be clear and transparent about your budget and expectations.
- Be Clear About Your Priorities: Share what matters most to you and your partner, and explain why certain aspects of the wedding are non-negotiable.
- Be Open to Their Input: While setting boundaries is essential, be open to suggestions or offers of help from family members.
- Set Boundaries: If someone offers to help with specific expenses, be clear about what you’re comfortable with.
- Keep the Conversation Ongoing: As your plans evolve, continue to communicate with your family about the budget and any changes that may arise.
Break It Down by Categories
Once you’ve established a general budget, break it into categories: venue, attire, photography, florals, food, décor, entertainment, etc. This will help you stay organized and ensure no important detail is overlooked.
How and Where to Save Money
Weddings can be expensive, but there are many ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Here are some key areas where you can save:
- Venue: To save on rental fees, consider non-traditional venues, such as parks, gardens, or even your backyard.
- Guest List: Keeping your guest list smaller will reduce costs for food and seating and make the day more intimate.
- Wedding Attire: Look for sales, consider renting, or even buy pre-loved wedding attire to save money.
- Catering: Opt for a buffet or family-style meal instead of plated dinners to cut down on catering costs.
- Rent, Don’t Buy: Rent items like décor, furniture, and even your wedding dress to save money.
- Have a Smaller Wedding Party: A smaller wedding party means fewer dresses and suits to buy and less stress!
- Cut Back on Flowers: While flowers are beautiful, you can still have a stunning display by focusing on key areas like the bouquet, centerpieces, and ceremony décor.
- Favors and Gifts: Skip expensive wedding favors, and instead, consider donating to a cause you care about.
If photography, your venue, or the food are your top priorities, allocate a significant portion of your budget to those categories first. Don’t forget to factor in hidden costs like tips, marriage license fees, and vendor travel. Setting your budget early and sticking to it will help you avoid unnecessary stress later on.
What You Can DIY
If you’re feeling crafty and want to save some money, here are a few things you can DIY for your wedding:
- Invitations & Stationery: Design your own invitations, save the dates, and thank-you cards to save on printing costs.
- Wedding Favors: Handmade or personalized favors are a thoughtful and budget-friendly way to thank your guests.
- Wedding Party Gifts: Create personalized gifts for your wedding party, like custom mugs, candles, or framed photos.
AFTER THE TOP 3: WHAT’S NEXT?
Once you’ve celebrated, discussed the big picture, and set your budget, it’s time to move on to the next steps in the wedding planning process!
4. Create a Guest List
One of your first decisions is how many people you want to invite. Deciding on your guest list early is crucial because it will influence your venue choice, budget, and overall wedding vibe. Here’s how to get started:
- Decide Who’s a Must-Invite vs. Nice-to-Invite: Start by making two lists—one for those you must have at your wedding (close family and friends) and another for those you’d love to invite if your budget allows. This will help you stay on track when it comes time to finalize your numbers.
If you’re leaning toward an intimate wedding or elopement, consider other ways to involve loved ones. A virtual ceremony or a post-wedding celebration could include those who can’t be there in person.
5. Choose Your Wedding Date
Choosing the perfect wedding date can feel daunting, but with some thought, you’ll find a date that works for you and your guests. Here are some factors to consider:
Season and Weather
Do you dream of a winter wonderland or a sun-kissed summer celebration? Think about the type of weather you’d love for your wedding day.
Venue Availability
Popular venues can book up quickly, so it’s wise to consider a couple of date options. This flexibility will help you secure your dream location.
Family Schedules and Holidays
Take into account any major holidays or family events that could affect your guest list. A wedding during a holiday weekend may be convenient for some, but not for others.
Have a couple of date options in case your dream venue or vendors are already booked on your first choice.
6. Decide on Your Venue
Your venue sets the stage for your wedding, so finding a place that fits your style, guest count, and budget is essential. Here are some venue options to consider:
Traditional Venues
Consider historic venues (like libraries, museums, or estates), vineyards, gardens, or your local wedding venue. These classic options provide a beautiful, structured setting for your ceremony and reception.
Destination Weddings
Dreaming of saying “I do” on a beach, in the mountains, or abroad? Destination weddings can be magical but require extra planning, especially with travel logistics.
Elopement-Friendly Locations
If you’re considering an intimate ceremony, look into national parks, scenic overlooks, or a cozy Airbnb. These venues can offer a more personal, relaxed vibe.
Questions to Ask: When you find a venue you love, ask about availability, capacity, what’s included (tables, chairs, linens), and any vendor restrictions.
7. Book Your Key Vendors Early
The best vendors can book months in advance, so securing your team as soon as possible is essential. Here’s where to start:
Photographer
Your wedding photographer will be with you all day, capturing every moment, so choose someone whose style resonates with you. Look for a photographer who can guide you through the day and make you feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Venue
Once you’ve decided on your venue, lock it in! This will be the cornerstone of your wedding planning.
Planner/Coordinator
If you’re planning a larger wedding or destination event, a planner or coordinator can help you stay organized and on track.
Caterer, Florist, Hair & Makeup, Entertainment
These vendors are essential to your day, so book them early to ensure you get your first choice.
The best vendors get booked quickly, especially for popular wedding dates. When you have a date, contact your preferred vendors—photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment—to secure your spot.
Once you’ve hired your wedding vendors, trust them to do what they do best. Vendors are experts in their field and will guide you through the process. Allow them the creative freedom to deliver their best work.
8. Wedding Parties
One of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding is selecting your wedding party. These people will support you throughout the planning process and on your big day. Here’s how to navigate this extraordinary decision!
When to Ask Your Wedding Party
Ask your wedding party as soon as your date and venue are set. This gives them plenty of time to clear their schedules, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding. Think about those who have been there for you and who you want to share this moment with.
How to Ask Your Wedding Party
Make asking your wedding party memorable! Consider:
- Personalized Gifts like custom jewelry or keepsake boxes.
- Surprise Proposals during a dinner or weekend getaway.
- Creative Cards or Video Messages if you’re far apart.
- Special Outings like a spa day or brunch to ask in person.
Why a Smaller Wedding Party Might Be Right for You
A “less is more” approach to your wedding party is becoming increasingly popular. Here’s why:
- Less Stress: Fewer people to coordinate means smoother planning with less drama.
- More Meaningful Roles: A smaller group lets you focus on your closest loved ones, making each role more significant.
- Budget-Friendly: With fewer attendants, you can save on costs like attire and travel, allowing for more budget flexibility.
- Easier Logistics: Fewer people means less coordination for things like transportation and seating arrangements.
- Focus on the Couple: A smaller wedding party shifts the focus to you, creating a more intimate and personal ceremony.
- More Flexibility: With a smaller group, you have more venue and scheduling options, perfect for a relaxed vibe.
Ultimately, a smaller wedding party lets you focus on what matters most—your love and the people closest to you. It creates a personal, meaningful, and stress-free celebration!
9. Start Wedding Attire Shopping
Begin shopping for your wedding attire about 8-12 months in advance to allow for ordering and alterations. Here are some tips for finding the perfect outfit:
Your Comfort is Key
You’ll be wearing your attire for several hours, so choose something that’s comfortable and fits your style.
Consider the Weather and Location of Your Wedding
If you’re having an outdoor wedding, think about how your dress or suit will hold up in different conditions (wind, heat, rain).
Don’t Forget Your Additions
Shoes, jewelry, and layers for cooler temps are just as important as your main outfit.
10. Plan Your Ceremony
Whether planning a religious, non-religious, or symbolic ceremony, now is the time to start thinking about the details. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Hire Your Officiant
If you’re not self-solemnizing, find an officiant who can help craft a ceremony reflecting your beliefs and personality.
Write Your Vows
Start writing them early if you opt for personalized vows. This will give you time to reflect on your relationship and what you want to promise your partner.
11. Think About Guest Experience
Your guests are a big part of your wedding day, so make their experience memorable. Here are some ideas to enhance the guest experience:
Fun Details
Plan signature cocktails, lawn games, or a photo booth to entertain guests.
Accommodations and Transportation
If you have out-of-town guests, help them with accommodations and transportation details to make their experience seamless.
Unique Reception Vendors
Consider adding fun extras to your reception, like a tattoo artist, custom portraits, late-night food trucks, or a cigar bar.
Your guests are there to celebrate with you, so make sure they feel comfortable and entertained. Consider seating arrangements, food options, and entertainment to keep everyone engaged and happy.
12. Build Your Wedding Timeline
A rough wedding timeline is essential for keeping your day on track. Work with your photographer and planner to create a schedule that includes:
Your Ceremony Start Time
The time your ceremony will begin, keeping in mind sunset or golden hour for photos.
Cocktail Hour, Dinner, and Dancing
Plan these events to flow smoothly, ensuring your guests have ample time to eat, drink, and celebrate.
Plan your timeline early and include buffer time for unexpected delays. A well-thought-out timeline will help your day run smoothly and reduce stress for everyone involved.
Weddings are full of surprises, so it’s important to be flexible and prepared for anything that might come up. Have a backup plan for outdoor events, keep a small emergency kit on hand, and stay calm if things don’t go as planned.
13. Plan the Little Details
Don’t forget about the small touches that make your wedding day uniquely yours:
Your Invitations & Stationery
Send out Save the Dates and invitations early to give guests plenty of time to RSVP.
Decor
Choose florals, table settings, and personal touches that reflect your style.
Music
Select ceremony songs, first dances, and a playlist that sets the mood for the night.
While the big moments like the ceremony and reception are important, the small details often make a wedding feel personal and unique. Think about the décor, personalized touches, and special moments that reflect your style as a couple.
14. Legal and Logistical To-Dos
Before the big day, there are a few legal and logistical tasks to take care of:
Your Marriage License
Research the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your location.
Travel & Accommodations
Book your travel and accommodations early if you have a destination wedding or elopement.
15. Take Care of Yourselves
Wedding planning can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take care of yourselves along the way:
Plan Date Nights
Set aside time for date nights without wedding talk to keep your connection strong.
Focus on Self-Care
Ensure you care for your mental and physical health during the planning process.
16. Finalize and Celebrate
As your wedding day approaches, confirm all details with vendors 1-2 weeks before the big day. Pack your essentials, including rings, vows, and attire, and then relax! Your big day is finally here—take it all in and enjoy every magical moment.
Your wedding day will go by quickly, so take moments throughout the day to savor the experience. Be present, enjoy the little moments, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
Now that you’ve tackled some foundational steps in wedding planning—setting your budget, choosing a venue, and building your dream vendor team—it’s time to bring it together into an overall timeline. A well-structured wedding timeline is the key to staying on track and ensuring every detail falls into place. Think of it as your roadmap to a stress-free planning journey, helping you prioritize tasks, meet critical deadlines, and avoid last-minute surprises. Whether you’re months or weeks away from your big day, creating a timeline tailored to your unique celebration will make everything more manageable and enjoyable. Let’s dive into how to craft one that works for you!
YOUR SIMPLIFIED WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE
This timeline keeps you organized while leaving room to savor the planning process!
12+ Months Before
- Set your budget and guest list.
- Book a planner (if needed), choose a date, and secure your venue.
- Start researching key vendors like photographers, florists, and caterers.
10-12 Months Before
- Hire major vendors (photographer, caterer, florist).
- Start shopping for your dress and book entertainment.
- Ask your wedding party and schedule engagement photos.
8-10 Months Before
- Order your dress and reserve hotel blocks.
- Design save-the-dates and book hair and makeup artists.
- Plan your honeymoon.
6-8 Months Before
- Send save-the-dates.
- Book remaining vendors (officiant, rentals, transportation, baker).
- Begin dress fittings and create your gift registry.
4-6 Months Before
- Order invitations and finalize wedding party attire.
- Organize transportation and rentals.
- Schedule tastings and finalize your menu.
3 Months Before
- Send invitations and purchase wedding rings.
- Write vows and confirm vendor details.
- Plan your rehearsal dinner.
2 Months Before
- Attend your final dress fitting and finalize the day-of timeline.
- Confirm RSVPs and plan ceremony readings.
1 Month Before
- Finalize headcount and obtain your marriage license.
- Break in your wedding shoes and send final vendor payments.
- Pack for your honeymoon.
1-2 Weeks Before
- Confirm seating chart and vendor timelines.
- Delegate day-of tasks and pick up your dress.
- Attend beauty appointments.
Day Before
- Rehearse the ceremony and enjoy your rehearsal dinner.
- Prep wedding details and relax for the big day.
Wedding Day
- Eat breakfast, follow the timeline, and enjoy every moment!
After the Wedding
- Send thank-you notes, preserve your dress, and share photos.
- Handle any legal name changes (if applicable).
Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding with Ease?
Planning your wedding—whether a local or a destination celebration—can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! My Free Wedding Planning Guide supports you every step of the way. With an in-depth checklist, a customizable timeline, and expert tips for traditional and destination weddings, this guide is packed with everything you need to stay organized, stress-free, and excited for your big day.
Don’t miss out on this ultimate resource to simplify your planning process and bring your vision to life, no matter where you say “I do.” Sign up now to get instant access—your dream wedding starts here!
Planning your wedding is an incredible journey, and finding the right photographer is key to preserving every unforgettable moment!
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