What Newlyweds Wish They Had Known: Top 10 Tips for Wedding Planning Bliss

1. Start Planning Early, but Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

• Tip: Begin with a general timeline and key vendors but avoid obsessing over every detail from day one. Give yourself time to enjoy the planning journey.

2. Set a Realistic Budget (and Stick to It!)

• Tip: Decide on priorities, like venue and food, and let that guide your spending. Have a buffer for unexpected costs – they happen more than you’d expect!

3. Guest List: Quality Over Quantity

• Tip: Focus on inviting people who matter most to you, rather than feeling pressured to extend invitations out of obligation. A smaller list can create a more intimate atmosphere.

4. Trust Your Vendor Team

• Tip: Choose vendors whose style and personalities align with yours. Trusting their expertise can relieve a lot of planning stress and help you enjoy the day more.

5. Be Present on Your Wedding Day

• Tip: Let go of the little things. Try to pause throughout the day to appreciate the moments, whether it’s during the vows, reception, or a private moment together.

6. Don’t Sweat the Small Details

• Tip: Certain details may not go as planned, but only you will notice them. The most memorable parts are often the unexpected moments.

7. Hire a Wedding Coordinator (If Possible)

• Tip: If it’s in the budget, a coordinator or day-of planner can be invaluable in making sure everything runs smoothly and solving issues before they reach you.

8. Have a Backup Plan for Weather

• Tip: If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, think through a backup option. This way, no matter the forecast, you’ll have peace of mind.

9. Make Time for Each Other During the Reception

• Tip: The day can pass by in a blur. Plan a short break, even five minutes, to step aside and appreciate each other’s company amidst the celebration.

10. Plan for Post-Wedding Life, Not Just the Wedding Day

• Tip: After the day ends, it’s the marriage that counts. Consider investing in ways to maintain a strong relationship beyond the wedding, like premarital counseling or discussing shared goals.