Where to Start When Planning Your Wedding: A Guide to Defining Your Dream Day
You’re engaged—WOOO! It’s time to start envisioning the wedding you’ll remember for a lifetime. But where do you even begin? Between setting a budget, choosing a style, and discussing guest count, planning can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you and your partner sit down and define the vision for your wedding day, giving you a foundation to make every detail feel intentional and uniquely yours. Sometimes it’s helpful to task each person to come up with their answers to these questions and then come together to collaborate and other times, it can be fun to come together blind and figure it out along the way. This all doesn’t have to be figured out in one sitting either — be open to your options and give yourselves time to figure the backbone out; it will be worth it in the long run.
1. Picture Your Dream Day Together
Begin by talking with each other about what you want the day to feel like. Are you imagining an intimate, cozy gathering, or a grand celebration surrounded by everyone you know? Think about the emotions you want to experience—whether it’s a relaxed, easygoing vibe or something more refined and elegant. Is there a season you had in mind? Does a type of venue speak to you? Will it just be the wedding day or do you see you and your bae celebrating with family and friends over multiple days and events? This initial mood-board-vibe-check conversation will help define the style, size, and setting of your wedding day and can even influence which vendors, decor, and services you choose.
2. Honoring Traditions and Meaningful Elements
Cultural or Religious Significance: For many of us, including cultural or religious elements brings depth and meaning. Whether it’s a specific ritual, family tradition, or special attire, discuss with your partner what resonates with each of you. These pieces can not only personalize the day but can also feel like a beautiful way to honor family and heritage.
Traditional vs. Modern: Some couples dream of a traditional ceremony, while others prefer a modern twist or a blend of both. Consider if you want to walk down the aisle to a classic tune, exchange traditional vows, or incorporate a unique ritual that’s meaningful to your relationship. Starting with what’s important to each of you will help shape a ceremony that’s authentic to you both.
What’s Meaningful to You as a Couple: Think about details that represent your shared passions, values, or history. This could be anything from a special location, like where you first met, to incorporating a family heirloom, or even a favorite food or drink as part of your celebration. These details make the day feel truly yours.
3. Defining Your Guest Count: Intimate vs. Large Gatherings
Small, Intimate Weddings: A smaller guest count (around 30-50 people) offers the chance for a truly personal experience. With fewer guests, you’ll likely get to spend quality time with each one, and the celebration can feel more like an extended family gathering. Smaller weddings also lend themselves to unique venues, like private estates, rooftops, or intimate restaurants.
Medium to Large Weddings: For those who envision a larger celebration with 75-150 guests, the day can feel festive and grand. A larger guest list means more moving parts, but it’s also an opportunity to create an unforgettable experience with all your friends and family present. Keep in mind that a larger wedding often requires more logistical planning, including rentals, larger venues, and coordination to keep everything running smoothly.
4. Budget and Logistics: Where Professional Planning Makes All the Difference
Defining a budget may not be the most exciting part of planning, but it’s essential. Your budget will shape choices like venue, guest count, decor, and even food and beverage options. Couples often find that professional wedding planners can help them stretch their budget, find hidden gems, and avoid common pitfalls. A planner can also help organize and prioritize tasks, giving you peace of mind and a trusted resource to lean on throughout the planning journey.
5. Why Working with a Wedding Planner or Coordinator Is Worth It
With so much to consider, having a professional by your side can make all the difference. As wedding planners and coordinators, we help bring your vision to life, taking care of the details that allow you to focus on what matters most—celebrating your love. From managing timelines to securing trusted vendors, a planner will streamline the process, offer unique insights, and keep the experience enjoyable and organized.
Creating your dream wedding starts with envisioning what feels authentic and meaningful to you both. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, your wedding day should reflect who you are as a couple. Still need help getting started? Shoot me an email — I read and reply to every. single. one.