Congratulations – you’re engaged! Whether you’re still staring at your ring in disbelief or already dreaming about your perfect venue, you’re about to enter one of the most exciting chapters of your life: wedding planning.
But before you dive into dress shopping or cake tastings, let’s take a deep breath and walk through the first essential steps to get your wedding planning started on the right foot.
Westwood booked couple Brooke + Jack captured by The Lang Co.
Here’s your newly engaged wedding planning checklist: organized, manageable, and full of insider tips.
Step 1: Celebrate & Soak It In
Before you dive into planning, take a moment to truly enjoy it. Whether it’s a dinner with family or a casual night with just the two of you, take time to enjoy this new chapter.
Pro Tip: Book an engagement photo shoot. Not only is it a great way to celebrate, but the photos can also be used for save-the-dates!
Step 2: Have the Big-Picture Conversation
Sit down with your partner and talk about the vision for your wedding.
Key questions to discuss:
What’s most important to us (location, guest experience, food, etc.)?
Do we want a big wedding, small ceremony, or elopement?
Are there any cultural or religious elements we want to include?
This helps align your goals before you get into the details.
Step 3: Set a Realistic Budget
Figure out who’s contributing financially and set an overall number. This will guide every decision going forward.
Pro Tip: Prioritize your top three must-haves as a couple. This ensures your money goes toward what matters most to you.
Brooke + Jack captured by The Lang Co.
Step 4: Choose a Date or Season
You don’t need to lock down a day yet, but knowing your ideal season (or a few target weekends) will help with venue scouting and vendor availability.
Pro Tip: If you’re flexible, off-season dates (like January or November) can save you money.
Step 5: Draft a Guest List
You’ll want a rough headcount before booking anything. Venue size and catering costs often depend on this number.
Start with:
Must-invites (immediate family, closest friends)
Nice-to-haves (extended family, coworkers, plus-ones)
Possible trims (based on space and budget)
Step 6: Research & Tour Venues
Now that you know your budget, guest count, and ideal date range, start venue hunting. Consider:
Indoor vs. outdoor options
Backup weather plans
Included amenities (tables, chairs, parking, etc.)
Pro Tip: Book early! Popular spots can fill up a year or more in advance.
Brooke + Jack captured by The Lang Co.
Step 7: Consider a Planner!
Check out Westwood’s Preferred Planners:
Foundations Wedding Planning & Design
Hello@foundationswp.com
———
annie@anniecoevents.com
———
info@christineandco.org
———
hello@thoughtfullydesignedco.com
———
monica@monamieevents.com
If you’re hiring a planner, they can also help you with vendor referrals and negotiations!
Step 8: Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the process
It’s easy to get caught up in spreadsheets and timelines, but remember: you’re planning a celebration of love. Give yourself grace, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the journey together. Wedding planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear checklist and a strong start, you’ll feel confident and in control. Start with the conversations that matter, make decisions based on what feels true to you, and the rest will fall into place.
YOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN US IN CELEBRATING A LITTLE SUMMER PARTY AT OUR UPCOMING VENUE
AUGUST 2
COCKTAILS | LIGHT BITES | MUSIC & MORE
18342 Spring Mill Rd, Westfield, IN 46074
6-9:30 PM
