Just Engaged? Here Are the First Steps to Start Planning Your Wedding

Wedding Planning

January 15, 2025

So, you’re engaged! Yay!

First of all—congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’ve likely just said “yes” to the love of your life, and your heart is still doing little happy dances (mine’s doing one for you too!). This is such an exciting season, full of dreams and possibilities. But let’s be real—once the initial engagement glow fades, the reality of planning a wedding can feel a little overwhelming. Where do you even begin?

As someone who’s walked alongside countless couples during their journey to the aisle, I’m here to help you take a deep breath and get started on the right foot. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, these first steps will set you up for success and, most importantly, help you savor the process.

Step 1: Hire a Wedding Planner (Yes, First!)

If I can offer one piece of advice to save your sanity and streamline the planning process, it’s this: hire a wedding planner. A professional planner is like your wedding fairy godmother—they handle logistics, keep you on track, and make your vision come to life while ensuring you actually enjoy being engaged.

Why hire a planner first?

They can help you set a realistic budget and prioritize what matters most.
They know the best local vendors and can recommend ones that align with your style.
They’ll guide you through tricky decisions, like venue selection and timeline creation.

Even if you’re on a tighter budget, many planners offer partial or day-of coordination services, which can be invaluable.

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Step 2: Set Your Budget and Priorities

Weddings can be as elaborate or as simple as you want them to be, but one thing is true for every couple: having a clear budget makes everything easier. Sit down with your partner (and anyone else contributing financially) to decide on an overall budget and what’s most important to you.

Questions to ask yourselves:

Do we want a big celebration or a more intimate gathering?
What are our non-negotiables (e.g., photography, venue, food)?
How much flexibility do we have with the budget?

Remember, your budget will guide decisions down the road, from choosing a venue to finalizing your guest list.

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Step 3: Choose Your Date and Venue

Your wedding date and venue will be the foundation for all your other decisions. Start by considering the time of year that feels most meaningful to you. Do you envision a summer celebration by the lake or a cozy winter wedding?

When searching for a venue, keep these things in mind:

Guest Count: Make sure the venue can comfortably accommodate your estimated guest list.
Style: Does the venue align with your aesthetic? Whether you love rustic barns, elegant ballrooms, or outdoor spaces, Michigan has it all.
Logistics: Ask about vendor restrictions, backup plans for weather, and what’s included in the rental fee.

Popular venues in Michigan, like The Inn at St. John’s or Castle Farms, often book up 12-18 months in advance, so this step is key to locking in your dream location.

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Step 4: Build Your Dream Team of Vendors

Once you’ve secured your venue, it’s time to book your key vendors. These professionals will bring your wedding day to life, so choose ones you trust and connect with. Start with the vendors who typically book up quickly, such as:

Photographer and Videographer: Your photos and videos will be the memories you cherish forever. Make sure to find someone whose style aligns with yours. (Psst…I’d love to chat if you’re looking for a wedding photographer!)
Caterer: Delicious food can make your celebration unforgettable. Some venues have preferred caterers, so check their list first.
Florist: Flowers set the tone for your day, whether you’re envisioning lush bouquets or minimalist greenery.
Entertainment: Whether it’s a DJ or live band, your music will create the vibe for your reception.

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Step 5: Decide on Your Guest List

Your guest list influences so many aspects of your wedding—your budget, venue, and overall vibe. Sit down with your partner and create a preliminary list of everyone you’d like to invite. Then, be prepared to make adjustments based on your venue’s capacity and your budget.

Pro Tip: Decide early whether you want a kid-free wedding or if plus-ones are allowed. Clear guidelines help avoid confusion later on.

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Step 6: Get Organized with a Wedding Timeline

A wedding timeline will be your best friend throughout the planning process. Whether it’s a digital spreadsheet, a physical planner, or an app, find a system that works for you. Break your timeline into manageable chunks, focusing on what needs to be done month-by-month.

Here’s a rough idea:

12+ Months: Book your planner, venue, and key vendors.
9-12 Months: Send save-the-dates, finalize your guest list, and shop for attire.
6-9 Months: Book hair and makeup, plan your ceremony, and order invitations.
3-6 Months: Confirm details with vendors, finalize your timeline, and have your engagement session.

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Step 7: Enjoy Being Engaged!

Amidst all the planning, don’t forget to soak in this sweet season of engagement. Plan a date night where you don’t talk about the wedding, take engagement photos to celebrate this milestone, and remember why you’re doing this—because you’ve found your forever person.

Your engagement is the foundation for your marriage, so prioritize each other and the life you’re building together.

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Ready to Begin Your Wedding Journey?

If you’re feeling a little more confident about where to start, I’m so glad! And if you’re still looking for a photographer who will be with you every step of the way—from engagement photos to your last dance—I’d love to connect. Head over to my contact page and let’s chat about how I can capture your love story. Here’s to planning the wedding of your dreams!