Where do I start to plan my wedding ?

Hi everyone,

Are you taking advantage of this time of year to set your 2025 goals? If so, have you added "start planning my wedding" to the list?

You have probably put off this moment because you are very busy, but also because you don't know where to start? Good news, today I want to talk to you about how to get started on this beautiful journey!

1) Start with the Big Picture

The first thing you guys need to do is to envision a little bit your wedding. Start by deciding the location ; do you want to get married here in Quebec? Or maybe in another region or province? Reflect on the size of the wedding for example and the atmosphere that you are looking for. Are we looking for something small, medium or big? What is the essence we are looking for ; Modern? Champêtre? Bohème? Rustic? Or maybe vintage? Take a moment to think about what represents you, it will help you tacle the second step.

2) List Out What You’ll Need

Once you have a better image of the type of wedding you are looking for, make a rough list of the suppliers you might need. Here you have a really exhaustive list to help you out :

• Ceremony Venue

• Organist or Other musicians for the ceremony

• Wedding celebrant

• Reception Venue

• Day-Of Coordinator

• Decor Supplier

• Florist (for decor or bouquets&all)

• Catering & Service (Reception)

• Wedding Cake provider

• Photographer & Videographer

• DJ & Lighting

• Live Musicians

• Entertainment

• Transportation (rented car, limousine, bus, etc.)

• Gifts provider

• Make up Artist

• Hair Artist

• Catering service for the Morning Preparation

There will be some services that you will be able to combine with one provider. For exemple, you will be able to find venues that provide the catering and service or a décor supplier that can provide you with the bride bouquet.

3) Decide What You Want to DIY

If you have a really artistic soul or simply want to save some money, consider make some details by yourself. Guest gifts or décor are things couples can prepare beforehand. The wedding coordinator will be able to install the décor or present the gifts the day of the event, which will allow to cut down on some costs.

Whether you decide to do everything yourself, a portion or nothing at all, it's totally your choice. Simply take note that for DIY projects, planning ahead is key. Giving yourself extra time for adjustments will make the process much smoother.

3) Pick Your First Step

Once you took the time to reflect on what you want and made a list of things you might need, you can a choose a starting point. Honestly, it can be anything! My advice is to start with the part of planning that excites you the most. For exemple, if visiting venus doesn't sound like the more thrilling thing, but surf through photography portfolio does. Start by searching for a photographer! If your partner is totally involved in the planning of your wedding, divide the work based on your strengths and interests. You will be able to work on things that are more natural for each one of you and move faster with the planning. No matter where you start, taking the first step will give you momentum and make the rest of the planning feel easier.

4) Find vendors for the subcontracted details

For all the details for which you want a supplier, it would be a good idea to search for a couple of options and start contacting them. If you have references form friends or past events, that it's a good starting point. Most of the suppliers will offer a free consultation or discussion to adapt their package to your needs. Making a couple of meeting will allow you to immerse yourself in the planning process and help you have a clearer vision of what you want and need.

I made a whole article about how to find the right vendor, don't hesitate to check it out!

"How to choose the right vendors?", it gives you a step by step to help you out.

Conclusion

Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the process much more manageable. Start by envisioning your big day, listing out what you need, and deciding which aspects you’d like to handle yourself. From there, choose a starting point that excites you, and begin reaching out to vendors who align with your vision.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone! Surround yourself with the right support—whether that’s family, friends, or professionals like a wedding coordinator—to help bring everything together smoothly.

No matter where you start, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey—after all, this is the beginning of one of the most exciting chapters of your life!

Warm regards

Lusiné