Cue the confetti and awkward family group chats- it's officially happening! You're getting married! Now whether you're the spreadsheet-loving, color-coded-planner type or the "let's just wing it and hope no one wears white who shouldn't" kind, this guide is for you.
As a wedding photographer who's captured first looks, last dances and everything in between, I've seen a lot. So, I am here to give you the real-deal timeline, my top 7 tips and truth bombs to help you plan this thing like a pro. Let's get into it shall we:
1.Start With the Vision - Then Get Real
Before you dive into flower quotes or spiral into the Pinterest abyss, sit down with your partner and figure out the vibe. Romantic garden party? Disco ball dreamscape? Mountains? Backyard BBQ? Vegas chapel run?
I want you to ask yourselves, what is important to you both? And how can you make this day special and unique to who you are as a couple!
Once you know the what and the feel, you can move on to the how (and the how much- yes, the dreaded "B" word, NO not that one. The budget)!
2.The First Vendor You Book: Spoiler Alert, It's Not the Photographer
Gasp, I know. But first thing's first: Secure your venue. Your date- and everything else- depends on it. Popular venues can book out 12-18 months in advance. If you're hoping for a Saturday in the spring or fall (aka peak wedding season), act fast.
Second to book: Your planner or coordinator (if you're using one). They'll help wrangle the rest.
Then:
- Photographer (hi, it's me!)
- Videographer (if you're into watching/listening to yourselves cry later.. JK. Video is awesome- Personally I'm a big fan)
- Caterer (do not forget to eat that day, seriously)
- DJ or Band (yes, vibes matter)
- Hair and makeup (they book out FAST, especially for groups)
- Florist (they're not just here to make things pretty- they're freaking magicians)
- Officiant (you don't wanna be that couple asking your cousin at the rehearsal dinner)
3.Speaking of Dates: Book Early
Since the post-pandemic reschedules + the TikTok wedding boom= even weekdays are getting snatched up. If you're dreaming of a Saturday in September or October, do not wait!
Pro tip: Fridays and Sundays are increasingly popular (and sometimes more budget-friendly).
4.Your Wedding, Your Rules (But Maybe Have a Few Boundaries?)
Yes, it's your day, but also... your mom might have thoughts. And your partner's uncle definitely will. Try to balance your dream with reality- and don't be afraid to:
- Skip traditions that don't fit you.
- Include new ones that do. (Want to swap unity candle for a unity pizza? Go for it. Flash mobs vows? Iconic. Personal touches > outdated expectations).
- Create space for your personalities, not just Pinterest trends.
5.Don't Sleep on the Photo Timeline
What is one of the biggest mistakes couples make? Not carving out time for photos.
Here's the truth: the best photos happen when we're not rushed. Talk to your photographer about:
- Doing a first look (you'll get more photos + alone time!)
- Family formals (have a list!)
- Golden hour portraits (aka, your glowy, dreamy moment)
Bonus: Give us a heads-up on any family drama. No one wants to accidentally pose divorced exes together.
6.Details Matter (But You Don't Need All of Them)
Personalized matchbooks? Love it. Signature cocktails? Iconic. But if choosing between custom napkins or late-night tacos, tacos win every time!
Focus on the moments more than the things. You won't remember what font you used- but you will remember your best friend's toast or your grandma tearing it up on the dance floor.
7.Have a Backup Plan - and a Backup Plan Attitude
Rain happens. DJs ghost. Veils rip. The best couples? They roll with it.
Build in buffer time, have a solid point person (bless your planner or that one responsible friend), and above all: remember why you're doing this.
Spoiler: it's not about the color of the linens. It's about celebrating your love with your favorite people in the world.
Final Words from Your Friendly Photographer
As someone who's third-wheeled many couples and weddings, let me say this: Your day is going to be beautiful, because it's yours.
Don't sweat the small stuff, surround yourself with people who make you laugh and remember to eat some cake!
Oh- and book your vendors early. Especially the ones who make you feel like a million bucks (and who won't miss your good side). ;)
You've got this.
