Navigate your wedding planning journey with ease! Dodge common pitfalls, streamline preparations, and enjoy every beautiful step.
Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
You're Engaged! What Are the Next Steps?
Congratulations on taking that exciting leap towards a lifetime of love and partnership – your engagement!
As you immerse yourself in the joy of this unique moment, you might also be feeling a flutter of anticipation about the journey that lies ahead. And with our engagement tips, you're about to begin a new chapter brimming with decisions to make, plans to formulate, and dreams to actualize. Though wedding planning can initially appear overwhelming, equipped with the right wedding checklist, it morphs into a delightful opportunity to create an event that truly echoes your one-of-a-kind love story.
CHEYENNE in front of Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JUNE," Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
We're going to walk you through fifteen practical steps on the wedding planning timeline, transforming what can seem like a mountain into manageable hills. Whether you're considering budget weddings or something more extravagant, the process will become less daunting, and more exciting and fun. Here's to crafting a wedding that's as special and beautiful as your love!
CHEYENNE & SCOTT at Loch Aerie Mansion, Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
01 Embrace the Moment
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An engagement is a monumental milestone that signifies a beautiful commitment to journey through life together. It's a chapter filled with promise and anticipation, a testament to your bond and the love that led to this moment. This precious period offers an opportunity for you to deepen your connection, cultivate shared dreams, and appreciate the journey you've embarked on together. Embrace this special time, not as a prelude to a time consuming planning process, but as a chance to celebrate, unwind, and cherish your love.
SHANNON & CHRIS at Pomme Radnor, Photography by KATIE TRAUFFER
Avoid diving headfirst into wedding preparations too soon, as this approach can easily eclipse the joy and serenity of your engagement. Instead, take some time to celebrate privately with your partner, family, and best friends, without feeling compelled to jump into any formal planning right away. Let the wedding serve as a celebration of your love, not a test of your organizing prowess. The beauty of your wedding will naturally stem from the bond you share, rather than the specifics of the event. As you take this step together, remember to pause and breathe, trusting that your dream wedding will unfold in due time!
Photography by ALWAYS AVERY PHOTOGRAPHY
02 Establish a Budget
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Establishing a budget for your wedding is an essential first step in the planning process. It sets a clear understanding of how much you're willing to spend on your big day, which, in turn, will guide your decisions on the venue, guest list, vendors, and more. A well-defined budget can lead to creative solutions and unique choices, resulting in a more personalized and intimate event.
Photography by COURTNEY SIMPSON
For instance, budget weddings don't necessarily mean skimping on style or elegance. They present an opportunity to explore cost-effective alternatives that can add a custom, charming touch to your celebration! With the budget set, you have the choice to delve into DIY wedding ideas that not only save money but also allow you to infuse a personal touch into your wedding decor and theme. Eco-friendly weddings are another cost-effective option that is gaining popularity. They prioritize sustainability without compromising the glamor of the event. You can opt for local vendors, seasonal flowers, and reusable decor (such as a silk flower wall rental!) to keep costs down while also minimizing your carbon footprint.
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "CHLOE" at the Water Works in Philadelphia, Photography by VIVIANA VIETO
03 Draft a Guest List
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Drafting a guest list early on in the wedding planning process is crucial as it sets the foundation for future decisions. While it doesn't have to be final, having an initial idea of the number of guests will greatly assist in venue selection and budgeting. Understanding the approximate guest count allows you to choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate your desired attendees. It also provides clarity when estimating costs for catering, seating arrangements, and other aspects. By establishing a guest list early, you can make informed decisions about the size and scale of your wedding, ensuring a smooth planning process and avoiding unnecessary stress down the line.
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "BELLA," Photography by FEMINA PHOTO DESIGN
04 Choose Your Ideal Date
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And by "date," we don't mean a plus one. You've already got the ultimate plus one to this party!
MONICA & CONNOR at The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion, Photography by COURTNEY DUEPPENGIESSER
Choosing your ideal wedding date is one of the first and most significant decisions in your wedding journey. This decision should reflect not only your preferences but also practical considerations. We recommend selecting a few potential dates, allowing for flexibility in case your dream venue isn't available for your top choice. This also ensures you have options when coordinating with key vendors. Consideration of the season you desire for your wedding can greatly influence the overall aesthetic and feel of the day, so choose a time of year that resonates with both you and your partner.
BIANCA & JOHN at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by PAIGE ALLRED
To decide on your ideal date, think about what each month signifies for you as a couple. Perhaps you may wish to pick the month you met, the time of year you find most beautiful, or a month during which you're typically less occupied with work. You may even consider selecting a date that's adequately spaced out from other significant holidays or birthdays, creating a unique time of the year for you to celebrate your future anniversaries. This thoughtful planning can make your wedding day, and the subsequent anniversaries, a separate and special celebration in your calendar.
Whether you've been dreaming of a specific wedding month since childhood or you're open to various options, remember that the date you choose will forever mark a milestone in your shared journey.
The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
05 Hire a Wedding Planner
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Hiring a wedding planner can be a game-changing decision! Professional planners bring a vast repository of expertise and wedding planner tips that can help streamline the planning, saving you time and reducing the potential for stress. They provide expert advice and recommendations tailored to your vision, ensuring every detail aligns with your dream celebration. This is especially beneficial if you're planning a large-scale event where logistics and coordination can become complex. Opting for a professional event planner early in the process allows for seamless integration into your wedding planning timeline, leading to more effective and efficient planning.
KATE & LOGAN at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by NICOLE LOIS
For a more intimate affair, forming a wedding planning team composed of family and close friends can help craft a personal, heartfelt celebration. This approach, too, can benefit from early consideration, allowing everyone involved to understand and contribute to your vision. Keep in mind that many venues offer event planning services, often with a qualified team that understands the space well, which can simplify coordination and enhance the overall execution of the event. They may also have existing relationships with caterers and other vendors, which can be a huge advantage. Many wedding venues, such as the Ballroom at Ellis Preserve by Finley Catering, even offer their own catering services!
Some recommended wedding planners include By Bianca and Peonies Events. Regardless of the size or style of your wedding, securing a trusted team or professional early on can help in managing wedding stress.
LAURA & ALAN at Terrain Gardens, Event Planning by BY BIANCA, Photography by SONDERBIRD PHOTOGRAPHY
06 Discover Your Dream Venue
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Once you have a set date and guest count, you are ready to start looking for the perfect location! This can be one of the most time-sensitive tasks as popular venues often book up far in advance. But don't let this discourage you! There are countless gorgeous venues out there to chose from. Touring prospective venues provides a first-hand look at the space and helps you envision your day. Whether you're considering indoor elegance or a sunshiny outdoor wedding, touring allows you to assess a venue's capacity, aesthetics, and functionality. Securing a venue early on provides a foundation for other decisions, such as decor, theme, and even your choice of bridal attire.
The Renault Winery in New Jersey, Photography by BOSWICK PHOTOGRAPHY
Early booking also enables you to secure your desired date at your dream venue, alleviating one of the major stressors in the wedding planning process. This is even more critical for destination weddings, where logistics and travel plans can significantly impact your timeline.
ALEX & JOE at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by ASYA PHOTOGRAPHY
For couples located in the northeast, some great venues we recommend are: The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve by Finley Catering in Newtown Square, PA, The Renault Winery in New Jersey, Terrain Gardens in Devon, PA, and Loch Aerie Mansion in Malvern, PA.
The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JOLIE", Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
07 Research and Book Your Vendors
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Depending on your wedding plans, you might need a caterer, photographer, florist, DJ or band, and other professionals. These vendors bring your vision to life, infusing their expertise into areas like food, music, and decor. To identify your dream team of vendors, consider attending local wedding expos and other fun events for brides and grooms! These events not only inspire you with wedding ideas for your own nuptials but also allow you to connect with the wedding expert community. Interacting with potential wedding vendors gives you a sense of their style and approach, helping you gauge if they align with your vision.
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JOLIE" at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
When it comes to vendors like florists, for instance, researching wedding floral arrangements and reading wedding vendor reviews can help narrow down your choices. These reviews can provide real insight into the experiences of other couples, making it easier for you to make informed decisions.
Florals by PETALS WITH STYLE, Photography by COURTNEY DUEPPENGIESSER
To add a sophisticated yet magical aesthetic to your event, consider hiring Nicol Floral Design for gorgeous flower wall rentals. These couture silk floral walls offer a stunning backdrop for various aspects of your wedding, from the altar and photo booth to the romantic "sweetheart table." They can even serve as a delightful feature at your bridal shower! By carefully researching and booking your vendors early on, you can ensure that every detail of your wedding aligns perfectly with your dream day.
Bride GINA in front of Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JUNE", Photography by VERSANO PHOTOGRAPHY
08 Shop for Bridal Dresses, Tuxedos, and More!
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Shopping for wedding attire is an essential, and often thrilling, stage of the wedding planning process. For many brides, selecting the perfect gown embodies the fulfillment of lifelong dreams and bridal dress ideas. There's a special kind of magic that comes alive when you step into a bridal salon, trying on exquisite gowns, and begin to truly visualize the unfolding of your wedding day. Yes, this is really happening!
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JUNE" at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by PAIGE ALLRED
This step is not only about the bridal gown but also includes choosing the ideal tuxedo—a significant moment encapsulated in every groom's guide to weddings—as well as attire for your wedding party. For brides and bridesmaids' dresses, we highly recommend exploring options at your local Pronovias Bridal Salon and the Elizabeth Johns Bridal Boutique in Suburban Square, PA.
Photography by NICOLE LOIS
ELLEN & CRAIG in front of Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JUNE," Photography by HALEY RICHTER
09 Plan the Wedding Ceremony
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Planning the wedding ceremony is an integral part of this adventure, rich with sentiment and often steeped in wedding traditions. Speaking with the individual who will be officiating the wedding is key during this stage! Discuss the structure of the ceremony and articulate any religious, cultural, or personal traditions you wish to incorporate. This will ensure that the proceedings not only align with your vision but also honor the heritage and values that are meaningful to you. Crafting a ceremony that intertwines your love story with time-honored traditions creates a memorable, uniquely personal celebration of your union.
PRISCILA & MARK in front of Nicol Floral Design flower wall "CHLOE" at Water Works, Photography by VIVIANA VIETO
Photography by BOSWICK PHOTOGRAPHY
10 Send Save-the-Dates and Invitations
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This stage lets you unleash your creativity through unique wedding invitation designs, providing a glimpse into the theme and vibe of your upcoming nuptials. A tropical theme, for instance, could be previewed through vibrant colors and beachy motifs, while a chic, minimalistic design might pique curiosity with its understated elegance. This tangible introduction to your wedding theme gets your guests excited and looking forward to your special day. If you're wondering about timing, typically, save-the-dates are sent out six to eight months in advance, and invitations follow two months before the wedding. This thoughtful correspondence helps guests plan their attendance and builds anticipation for your big day!
Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
CHEYENNE & SCOTT at Loch Aerie Mansion, Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
11 Plan the Wedding Reception
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This stage of planning offers an opportunity to reflect your personalities, tastes, and style through a variety of elements. Exploring wedding reception ideas, choosing a fitting theme with innovative wedding theme ideas, and considering wedding catering tips are all key aspects of creating a memorable event. When designing your reception, think about the overall atmosphere you want to create. Is it a romantic candlelit vibe or a bright and lively dance party? Your decisions regarding the menu, wedding cake, decorations, and entertainment should all align with this vision.
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "CHEYENNE", Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
Next, focus on creating a timeline for the evening's events. This includes the arrival of guests, dinner, speeches, dances, and the cake cutting ceremony. Arranging the photography and videography are critical steps to capture your celebration. For wedding photography, we recommend professionals like Francesca Michetti, Grace & Ardor, and Rachel McGinn. For video coverage, our top choice is CinemaCake, known for their enchanting wedding films. And don't forget about your wedding music playlist – the right tunes will set the mood and get everyone on the dance floor!
Photography by JENNIFER SOFIA PHOTOGRAPHY
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JUNE", Photography by ALWAYS AVERY PHOTOGRAPHY
12 Register for Gifts
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Registering for gifts early on allows you to guide your guests towards presents that you and your partner truly need and will genuinely appreciate. Wedding registry tips suggest you should include a range of items to suit various budgets, from kitchen gadgets and homewares to honeymoon experiences. For more personalized advice, consult with your wedding planner, friends, or even family members who have recently tied the knot. Sharing your registry with guests well ahead of time not only makes it easier for them to choose a gift but also allows for items to be delivered before your wedding day. This tradition is a fun way to start building your new life together with items that cater to your shared tastes and needs.
Photography by GRACE & ARDOR CO.
13 Book Accommodations for Guests
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Be sure to secure the necessary accommodations for your out-of-town guests far enough in advance. By reserving a block of rooms at a nearby hotel, you ensure that your guests have a comfortable place to stay close to the wedding festivities. Early booking also often allows you to negotiate discounted group rates, making the stay more affordable. Moreover, this step is time-sensitive, especially if your wedding coincides with a popular travel season or a local event. The sooner you can reserve these accommodations, the more likely you are to secure enough rooms in a desirable location. By taking care of this aspect early on, you relieve your guests of the stress of finding suitable lodging, allowing them to fully enjoy your celebration.
JENNY & FRANK at The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, Photography by IRYNA SHOSTAK
14 Plan Your Honeymoon, and Other Events
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Planning your corresponding wedding events and honeymoon is one of the exciting final steps in your wedding journey! Events such as the bridal shower and bachelorette party are wonderful opportunities for celebrating with close friends and family in a more intimate setting. These events not only create cherished memories but also build anticipation leading up to your dream wedding day.
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "JOLIE", Photography by JENNIFER SOFIA PHOTOGRAPHY
To elevate these occasions, consider booking Nicol Floral Design for bridal shower flower walls. Their bestselling designs, such as "June", "Jolie", and "Bella", will create an unforgettable backdrop for your celebration!
Nicol Floral Design flower wall "BELLA," Photography by FEMINA PHOTO DESIGN
MALLORY & JAKE in front of Nicol Floral Design flower wall "BELLA," Photography by FEMINA PHOTO DESIGN
Honeymoon planning is equally important, marking the first adventure in your married life. Whether you wish to depart immediately after the wedding or choose to wait a few months or even a year, ensure your travel, accommodation, and activities are well-planned. Keep in mind that all of these events are highly customizable and their inclusion depends entirely on your preferences. Not all couples opt for a traditional bridal shower, bachelor or bachelorette party, or immediate honeymoon. This is your celebration, so choose what feels right and resonates with you!
Photography by MANSI STUDIOS
Advanced planning for these events will help ensure a seamless, stress-free wedding experience. Your maid of honor, family, or friends can be valuable allies in this process!
15 Finalize the Details
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Finalizing the details of your wedding is crucial as the final step. As your big day approaches, make sure you or your event planner confirms all your bookings with vendors to ensure everyone is aligned and prepared! Additionally, finalizing the day's timeline guarantees that all elements of your wedding - from the ceremony to the reception - will flow seamlessly. Lastly, a final fitting of your wedding attire will ensure that everything fits perfectly, so you look and feel your absolute best. This culmination of final checks and tweaks serves to reinforce the solidity of your plans!
Throughout this process, it's also important to regularly communicate with your partner to ensure you're both on the same page with the planning. Remember that this is a celebration of your love and commitment to each other, and the most important thing is that you're both happy! Congrats on your engagement, and happy wedding planning!
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