How Do You Plan a Wedding? | Austin and Houston Wedding Planners

You're engaged!!! Now what??

Many brides don't know where to start. Here's a list to help you get rolling:

1 - brainstorm and discuss. What do you both envision? Will the ceremony be at a location separate from the reception? How many guests would you like? Does time of year matter? Who's paying and what's the budget?

2 - hire your coordinator. Even if you're just going with a "Day Of" coordinator, you'll want to hire your coordinator from the start so that they can give you direction, help you stay on track, and maximize those discounts vendors tend to give for working with preferred coordinators.

3 - venue. Your venue determines your date. Don't book anything or even start to look at dresses until you have a firm date.

4 - photographer and caterer. Your photographer and caterer are so important - they reflect your style and each is more unique that the previous. If you want the photographer and caterer of your choice, you'll need to book them QUICKLY, before someone else does.

5 - music. Music drives your party and that amazing band/DJ is limited to just one event per day, so they need to be next on your priority list.

6 - cakes, flowers, lighting, fireworks, transportation, etc. These vendors can do multiple events in a day so they don't need to be hired within the same time crunch as the previously listed vendors.

This is just a general road map to get you started. Your coordinator will work with you on how much to budget for each vendor and save you valuable time in researching the vendor that best fits that budget as well as your style.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. Pace yourself! And, above all, remember the point.... you have a relationship that's worthy of an amazing celebration as you move towards the next chapter. The entire process, from start to end, should be an enjoyable experience. We'll help you keep your sanity. :)