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

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Annie & Co. Events

annie@anniecoevents.com

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Christine + Co.

info@christineandco.org

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Thoughtfully Designed Co.

hello@thoughtfullydesignedco.com

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Mon Amie Events

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