10-Step Wedding Planning Starter Guide
Congratulations, you’re engaged! This is such a beautiful chapter filled with excitement, daydreaming, and a few “where do I even start?” moments. Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help you simplify the process and make it truly meaningful. As a wedding photographer who’s had the honor of walking alongside hundreds of couples, I created this heartfelt 10-step guide to help you get started with confidence and clarity.
Here’s how to begin planning your dream wedding, one step at a time.
1. Celebrate the Moment
Before diving into spreadsheets and timelines, take a breath. Savor your engagement with a special date night, a mini getaway, or a fun engagement shoot. This season only happens once. Document it, share the joy, and celebrate with the people who matter most.
2. Talk About Your Big Picture Vision
Sit down with your fiancé and talk about what truly matters to you both. What kind of experience do you want? Intimate or grand? A mountaintop ceremony, beach vows at sunset, or a romantic church wedding? Align on your values and must-haves before diving into the details.
Tip: Think in terms of feelings before aesthetics, how do you want to feel walking down the aisle, dancing your first dance, or saying goodbye as newlyweds?
3. Set Your Budget (and List Priorities)
Talk openly about your budget and where you want to invest. What matters most, the venue, photography, food, or entertainment? Knowing your non-negotiables helps you make decisions with less stress and more purpose.
Hint: Photography is one of the few things that lasts beyond the wedding day. Choose intentionally.
4. Choose a Time of Year
Think about seasons that mean something to you, maybe you love the warmth of a Florida fall, or you’re dreaming of a spring ceremony surrounded by blooming florals. Your ideal season helps guide your venue options and vendor availability.
5. Draft a Guest List
You don’t need a final headcount, but a rough number helps you determine what venues will work for you. Are you planning for 40 guests or 240? Keep your vision and budget in mind as you consider who you truly want to share the day with.
6. Find Your Dream Venue
Whether it’s a luxury ballroom, a backyard under twinkling lights, or a waterfront villa, your venue sets the tone. Start researching venues early, popular ones book 12 to 18 months in advance. Ask about packages, vendor restrictions, and photo opportunities.
7. Hire a Planner (or Partial Coordinator)
A professional planner is your behind-the-scenes superhero. They’ll keep things organized, help bring your vision to life, and reduce stress on your big day. Even a month-of coordinator can make a huge difference.
8. Start Booking Key Vendors
Once your date and venue are locked in, it’s time to book the core team, photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, DJ/band, and hair/makeup. Popular vendors book quickly, especially during peak seasons. If you’re planning a destination wedding, prioritize your travel and vendor team early.
9. Create a Wedding Website + Registry
Your wedding website is a central hub for your guests. Include travel details, accommodations, your love story, and your registry. Choose a platform that’s simple, elegant, and easy to update. I recommend Zola, The Knot, or Minted.
10. Make Space to Be Present
Don’t get lost in the logistics. Build in moments during the planning process (and on the day itself) to pause, breathe, and soak it all in. Remember, this is about your love story, not just a pretty party.
At Kingsley James Studios, I’m more than your photographer. I’m your teammate, timeline expert, and memory catcher. If you’re planning a wedding that’s true to your love story — raw, real, and filled with joy — I’d be honored to be part of it.
Reach out anytime — I’m here to make this experience seamless, intentional, and unforgettable.
Follow along on Instagram @KingsleyJamesStudios for more wedding planning tips and behind-the-scenes inspiration.