You’re engaged and wondering how to start planning a wedding — now what?! First off: breathe. Celebrate. Stare at that ring for a good minute. This is your moment, and before you dive into timelines and table charts, I want you to know this — there’s no one “right” way to plan a wedding. There’s only your way.

As a wedding planner who’s walked this journey with so many couples, I’ve seen what actually works. And it doesn’t start with a seating chart — it starts with clarity, excitement, and a glass of champagne (or cafecito).

So if your head’s spinning with questions and your Pinterest board looks like a 24/7 confetti party, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break it down step by step:

💍 1. Start With the Vibe — Not the Venue

Before anything else, get crystal clear on how you want your day to feel.
Is it intimate and romantic? Wild and unforgettable? Light and tropical? Your vibe is your compass — and it’ll help you make every decision that comes next with confidence.

📆 2. Set a Realistic Date Range

Don’t rush to pick the date. Consider the season, any major holidays, and your budget. A flexible date = more options and less stress. Trust me, it’s gold.

This seasonal wedding guide by The Knot can help you decide which months best fit your vision.

💸 3. Talk About the Budget (Yes, Really)

It’s not the most fun convo, but it’s the most important one. Be honest about what you’re comfortable spending and who’s contributing. This will guide everything from the guest list to the cake. Talking about money early is key if you’re figuring out how to start planning a wedding in a realistic way. It affects everything from venues to guest count.

👰🏽‍♀️ 4. Choose Your Planning Style

Are you DIY all the way, want a little help, or hoping to hand it all off? Whether you’re a checklist queen or a “just tell me where to be” kind of person, figure out what kind of support will keep you sane. (Spoiler: That might be me.)

💌 5. Draft Your Guest List

Start with a rough list. This helps with venue capacity, catering estimates, and budget breakdowns. Don’t worry, it’ll change — they always do.

🏛 6. Tour Venues Early

Popular venues book fast. Once you have your vibe, budget, and guest estimate, start touring. Ask questions, take pictures, and trust your gut. f you’re not sure how to start planning a wedding, touring venues will give you clarity fast — especially when your guest count and budget are still evolving.

🧡 7. Don’t Forget: This Should Be Fun

Yes, there will be spreadsheets. Yes, someone will have an opinion you didn’t ask for. But this is the beginning of your marriage — your story. Don’t forget to soak it in, laugh through the chaos, and lean on people who’ve got your back.

✨Final Thought
Planning a wedding isn’t just about logistics — it’s about creating a day that reflects your love in every little detail. If you ever need someone to help you sort the vision from the noise, I’m just a message away. Still feeling overwhelmed by how to start planning a wedding? You don’t have to do it alone — I’m just a message away.

Need guidance along the way? Here’s how I can help with planning, coordination, or just calming the chaos.