THE TOP 10 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN PRE-PLANNING YOUR WEDDING
BEFORE YOU BOOK ANYTHING – DO THIS FIRST.
Before the dress.
Before the venue.
Before the Pinterest board becomes a full-time job.
There are a few things that will make everything easier—or infinitely harder.
Let’s choose easier.
1. Define the Feeling
Not colors. Not themes.
How do you want it to feel?
- Intimate?
- Grand?
- Effortless?
- Editorial?
This becomes your north star.
2. Set a Real Budget (With Cushion)
Weddings love to “just add one more thing.”
Build in breathing room so you’re not stressed every time inspiration strikes.
3. Guest Count = Everything
This determines:
- Venue size
- Catering costs
- Layout
- Budget allocation
It’s not a detail—it’s a driver.
4. Prioritize What Actually Matters
Pick your top 3:
- Food
- Photography
- Entertainment
- Design
- Experience
Spend accordingly. Not everything needs to be “the most important.”
5. Lock Your Date Strategy
Be flexible if you want:
- Better pricing
- More vendor availability
- Less stress
Saturday in peak season? You’re competing with everyone.
6. Choose Your Venue Early
This unlocks everything else:
- Vendors
- Timeline
- Design direction
No venue = no real plan.
7. Decide on Planner vs. DIY
Be honest about your time, energy, and sanity.
There is no award for doing everything yourself.
8. Build Your Vendor Shortlist
Don’t wait until the last minute—your favorites book fast.
Start researching early so you’re not choosing from what’s left.
9. Think About Guest Experience
Not just what it looks like—but what it feels like to attend.
Flow, comfort, timing, energy—all matter.
10. Give Yourself Permission to Edit
You don’t need every trend.
You don’t need every detail.
YOU ONLY NEED WHAT FEELS RIGHT.
PRINT THIS CHECKLIST!
