How to Begin Planning Your Wedding

SO, you’re Engaged! nOW wHAT?

First things first. . . ENJOY THE MOMENT! How wonderful to have found your forever person and decided to spend your life with them! But if you’ve found your way to our blog, chances are you are beginning to look at the first steps for planning your dream wedding. So, how to begin? Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the journey both enjoyable and memorable.

Step 1: Create a vision

Start envisioning your wedding day. Create a mood board with inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, and social media. Think about themes, colors, and the overall vibe you want to achieve. This vision will also inform your dress selection—whether you’re leaning toward a bohemian, classic, or modern style. Think about weddings you’ve been to — what details did you love? What choices did you not care for? Think about how you want to feel on your wedding day, as well as how you want your guests to feel.

STEP 2: Set a Date and Budget

Before diving into the details, choose a date for your wedding and establish a budget. This will help guide your decisions throughout the planning process. Consider seasonal factors, venue availability, and any personal milestones that might influence your date. (Maybe consider having your top 4 dates for your wedding so that you can make sure at least one of them is available at your chosen venue.)

Step 3: Choose Your Venue

The venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Start researching potential locations that align with your vision and budget. Consider the capacity, style (indoor vs. outdoor), and any amenities they offer. Once you’ve shortlisted your favorites, schedule tours to get a feel for each space. Many couples book their venue 12-18 months in advance, so this is a critical early step. During your tours, make sure to ask what is provided versus what you will be responsible for sourcing. (Many venues offer catering, cake, tables, chairs, linens, plateware…and some offer none of these things and expect you to hire outside vendors for these details.)

Step 4: Research Wedding Vendors

With your venue booked, it’s time to think about other key vendors:

• Florists: Look for florists who understand your aesthetic and can work within your budget. Schedule consultations to discuss your ideas and see their portfolio.

• Photographers and Videographers: Find professionals whose style resonates with you. Look at their portfolios and read reviews to ensure their approach aligns with your vision. Schedule meetings to discuss your needs and preferences.

• Caterers and Bakers: If your venue doesn’t provide catering, research local options. Schedule tastings to ensure the food reflects your tastes.

• Planners: If this is already feeling overwhelming, consider bringing a planner on board to help you manage all of the details. You can also book just a day-of coordinator who will basically work as your go-between with all of your vendors the week of the wedding, and they will help the production come to fruition so that you can tap out and just enjoy your day!

Set up meetings with vendors you like, making sure they are available for your chosen date and venue. (We recommend booking your photographer first out of the above vendors. They often book out a year or two in advance, so lock your favorite down!)

Step 5: Research Wedding Dress Styles

While shopping for your vendors, also be familiarizing yourself with different dress styles and silhouettes. Whether it’s an A-line, ballgown, fit and flare, mermaid, or sheath, understanding the options will help narrow down your choices. Don’t hesitate to explore various fabrics and embellishments that resonate with your vision. Notice how you are reacting to seeing lace, beading, embroidery, appliques, or just a clean-cut classic style. Make a list of favorites or create a Pinterest board of dresses you like to show your stylist at upcoming appointments.

Step 6: Find the Right Bridal Shop

Once you have a budget and style in mind, it’s time to find the perfect bridal shop. Look for a shop with a good reputation, a range of designers, and styles that align with your vision. Read reviews and ask friends for recommendations. Remember, your experience should be personalized and enjoyable.

Step 7: Schedule Appointments

Book appointments at your selected bridal shops. Many boutiques recommend bringing a small group of trusted friends or family members for support. Keep the group intimate to ensure you receive personalized attention. Some shops even offer special experiences, like private appointments with a stylist. At Kimberly James Bridal, you’ll receive a 1.5-hour private appointment with a dedicated stylist ready to help you through the whole process. You can book your appointment HERE.

Step 8: Try on Dresses

At your appointments, don’t hesitate to try on various styles, even those you might not initially consider. Each dress will fit differently, and you might be surprised by what you love. Pay attention to how you feel in each gown—comfort and confidence are key. As you try on dresses, keep an open mind. Sometimes, the dress you least expect can become “the one.” Trust your instincts and listen to your body. If you feel beautiful and confident, you’re likely on the right path.

Step 9: Finalize Your Choice

Once you’ve found the dress that makes your heart skip a beat, it’s time to make it official and say YES to the dress! Discuss customization options, alterations, and a timeline for delivery. Don’t forget to celebrate this moment—you’ve just taken a significant step in your wedding planning!

Step 10: Plan for Accessories and Styling

After choosing your dress, think about accessories that complement your look. Consider veils, jewelry, shoes, and other details that complete your bridal ensemble. Your bridal stylist at Kimberly James can assist with recommendations that match your dress and help you create the whole look!

Step 11: Send Save the Dates and Invitations

Once your venue is secured, it's time to inform your guests. Save-The-Dates should ideally be sent out 6-8 months before your wedding, especially if you have a destination wedding or many out-of-town guests. Invitations typically go out 8-12 weeks prior to the big day. Include all necessary details, such as the date, time, venue, and any pertinent RSVP information, like meal choices and whether or not the wedding is adults-only.

Step 12: Enjoy the Journey

Wedding planning is a unique experience that goes beyond just the dress. Take time to enjoy each step—from selecting your venue and vendors to curating your guest list and deciding on floral arrangements. Your wedding day will be a culmination of all your hard work and creativity. By following these steps and considering all aspects of your wedding, you’ll not only streamline your preparations but also ensure that your wedding reflects your style and personality. Happy planning, and remember: this is your love story—make it unforgettable!

Featuring 2024 Kimberly James Brides: Meghan Heyduk, Lydia Kincaid, Kaitlin bass Trout, Devin Clark, Alicia Murphy, Emily Campbell, Amber DiGregorio, and Alexis Green.