Newly engaged and don’t know where to start? Do these things first and you set yourself up for success & avoid headaches & heartache throughout the entire wedding planning process.
#1: Budget
I get it.. talking about money can be a little awkward and it’s probably not the most exciting first step to wedding planning but nailing down a clear max-spend will give you guidance through every step of the planning process. With your budget in mind, you’ll be able to save yourself the heartache of falling in love with something that could throw off the rest of your vision or cause you to max out before locking in an important detail of your day. When creating your initial wedding budget, I recommend estimating $1,200-$1,500 per guest in attendance.
#2: Priorities
Sit down with your fiance and your families and picture your perfect wedding day. When you close your eyes, what do you see? Lush florals, an energetic band, incredible photos, the fashion? You can do anything(!) but ranking your priorities will allow you to save in areas that are less important so you can go all out in the areas that really matter.
#3: Guest List
Your guest list will guide your wedding budget (hello per person costs!) as well as the venue booking process, not to mention it can be a fairly tedious project so you don’t want to be rushed through it. As you look for venues, knowing you have 200 guests on your list, you’ll know the size venue you need, and what per person costs you can estimate for that guest count at any given venue.
Once you complete your guest list, evaluate your wedding priorities, and establish your total wedding budget, you’ll have a solid foundation to plan from!
