Congratulations on your engagement! If you said “yes” over the festive season, you’re probably still on cloud nine. But now that the initial excitement is settling, you might be wondering, where do we even start with planning a wedding? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
This blog is packed with tips, ideas, and a checklist to guide you every step of the way. From announcing your engagement to creating a wedding timeline, I’ll walk you through all the key details so you can focus on making your dream day a reality.
Wedding planning checklist
Here’s your ultimate wedding planning to-do list.
- Announce your engagement
- Choose a wedding date
- Set a budget
- Create your wedding vision
- Start your guest list
- Book your venue
- Hire your marriage celebrant and other vendors
- Find your dream dress
- Plan your engagement party
- Organise your wedding timeline
Now let’s check out each step in more detail, with extra inspiration sprinkled in for good measure.
1. Announce your engagement
Sharing your exciting news is the first step. Whether you’re shouting it from the rooftops or keeping it low-key, it’s a moment to savour.
Ideas for announcing your engagement:
- hire a photographer for professional engagement photos
- throw a cosy celebration with family and friends
- share the news on social media with a creative caption that tells your love story
Pro tip: Those engagement photos? Perfect for your wedding website or save-the-date cards later on!
2. Set a budget
Before diving into venues or Pinterest boards, you’ll need to crunch some numbers. Setting a realistic budget is essential—it’ll guide every decision and help you avoid overspending.
How to create a wedding budget:
- sit down with your partner (and any contributors) to discuss total costs
- break the budget into categories like venue, catering, attire, and decor
- use a wedding budgeting tool or spreadsheet to stay on track
Budgeting hack: Set aside 5-10% for unexpected expenses—trust me, they always crop up!
3. Create your wedding vision
This is the fun part! Picture your dream wedding: is it an elegant ballroom celebration, a relaxed beach gathering, or a rustic barn affair? The clearer your vision, the easier it’ll be to make decisions.
How to bring your wedding vision to life:
- create a vision board using Pinterest or old-fashioned cut-outs from magazines
- focus on what’s most important to you—whether it’s food, music, or decor
- talk with your partner to ensure your ideas align
Pro tip: Add personal touches that reflect your story as a couple, like favourite colours or meaningful details.
4. Choose a wedding date
Your wedding date is a cornerstone of the planning process. It influences everything from venue availability to guest attendance, so take your time deciding. Remember that there are only 52 Saturdays in a year! The three most important vendors to check with are your venue, your celebrant and your photographer, as they are all “one-a-day” suppliers, so aligning them is key!
Things to think about when choosing your date:
- consider the season and how weather might impact your day
- check availability with your dream venue
- decide if you’ll need extra time for planning—12 months is ideal but not mandatory
Looking for savings? Consider an off-peak season or weekday date.
5. Start your guest list
The guest list can feel tricky, but it’s vital to get a rough idea early on. It’ll influence your venue, catering, and overall budget.
How to build your guest list:
- create three lists: must-haves, would-likes, and maybes
- discuss expectations with your partner and families
- remember that each additional guest means higher costs
Pro tip: Use tools like Google Sheets or guest list apps to manage RSVPs and dietary preferences later.
6. Book your venue
Your venue sets the tone for your wedding day, so choose carefully. Once you’ve got a date and guest list, it’s time to tour locations.
Questions to ask venues:
- is your preferred date available?
- what’s included (tables, decor, catering)?
- are there restrictions, like vendor lists or noise limits?
Remember: Popular venues book up fast, so start this step early!
7. Hire key vendors (including your marriage celebrant!)
Vendors like photographers, caterers, and planners can make or break your big day. And don’t forget your marriage celebrant—they’ll guide you through the legalities and create a heartfelt ceremony that’s uniquely yours. Get your top picks locked in as soon as possible.
Vendors to book first:
- marriage celebrant (hello, that’s me, Mandi Forrester-Jones!)
- photographer/videographer
- wedding planner or coordinator
- caterer
- florist
- band or DJ
Pro tip: Always check reviews and meet potential vendors in person before signing contracts. If you’re looking for a celebrant who brings warmth, humour, and professionalism to your ceremony, get in touch with me!
8. Find your dream dress or wedding outfit
Dress shopping is an unforgettable experience! Give yourself plenty of time to find the one and allow for fittings and alterations.
Tips for finding the perfect dress:
- research styles online and save favourites to share with boutiques
- book appointments at bridal shops
- bring along people whose opinions you trust
Not everyone wants to wear a wedding dress of (course), your wedding outfit should represent you and what you both love. In 2025 the rules are whatever makes you feel good!
Don’t forget accessories—shoes, jewellery, and a veil (if wearing one) all complete the look.
9. Plan your engagement party
Your engagement party is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and introduce your families. It doesn’t need to be grand—focus on fun and connection.
Engagement party ideas:
- a casual picnic in the park
- a themed party that reflects your personalities
- a cosy dinner at your favourite restaurant
Use this gathering to share your excitement and start building those bonds between guests.
10. Organise your wedding timeline
This step ties everything together. A clear timeline ensures you stay organised and on top of tasks.
Example timeline:
- 12-10 months out: book venue and vendors, start dress shopping
- 9-6 months out: finalise the guest list, send save-the-dates, and choose attire for your wedding party
- 5-3 months out: confirm decor and catering, order invitations
- 2-1 month out: finalise details with vendors, plan the seating chart
- 1 week out: relax and pamper yourself—you’re nearly there!
Pro tip: Hiring a day-of coordinator can help you enjoy your wedding day without stress. As an event planner for many years, I can assist with this as well.
Unique ideas to make your wedding unforgettable
While tradition has its place, adding unique touches can elevate your day.
Here are a few ideas:
- Ceremony: Work with your celebrant to ensure the ceremony is reflective of you both. A good celebrant will help you design your vows that are personal to the two of you, making the ceremony meaningful and memorable.
- Personalised gifts: Give guests something meaningful, like mini succulents or handmade candles.
- Live entertainment: Consider a string quartet, live artist, or even a magician during the cocktail hour.
- Interactive food stations: From build-your-own taco bars to gourmet dessert tables, interactive options are always a hit.
- Midnight snacks: Surprise late-night revellers with pizza slices, sliders, or doughnuts.
- Signature drinks: Craft a cocktail inspired by your love story and give it a fun name.
Enjoy the process
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming at times, but remember—it’s a celebration of your love. Don’t lose sight of what’s most important. Take breaks, involve your partner, and delegate tasks when needed. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make the most of it and enjoy every step. Bookmark this checklist and return to it as you progress. If you’re looking for a Brisbane-based celebrant who’ll help you create a ceremony full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, I’d love to chat. Here’s to planning a wedding that’s as beautiful, joyful, and unique as your love story!
