How to Plan a Wedding (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s be real: planning a wedding can feel like a second job. It’s exciting, yes — but also kind of overwhelming. Between the Pinterest boards, guest list politics, and budget spreadsheets, where do you even start?

If you’re staring at a blank notebook or have 87 tabs open on your browser right now, take a deep breath. Here’s a no-fuss, step-by-step guide to help you plan your wedding in a way that actually makes sense.

1. Talk About What You Both Want

Before you do anything, sit down with your partner and figure out what you actually want. Big or small? Formal or laid-back? Barn, ballroom, back garden?

No need to figure out every detail right now — just get on the same page about the vibe, the rough guest count, and maybe a season or date. Everything else flows from there.

2. Sort the Budget Early

Ugh, money talk — but seriously, do this early. Work out what you can spend comfortably and what your top priorities are. Some couples splash out on the venue, others want a killer photographer or live band. There’s no “right” answer, but being clear helps avoid surprises later.

Oh — and build in a buffer. Weddings always cost a little more than you think.

3. Find the Wedding Venue (Then Everything Else)

Your venue will set the tone, date, and how much space you've got for guests. So once you have your budget, start venue-hunting. Some get booked up a year or more ahead, especially the popular ones.

Look for places that fit your style — whether that’s a manor house, a cool industrial space, or something totally different like The Sessions House in Spalding (an old courthouse turned unique event space — it’s pretty stunning and full of character).

4. Lock In Your Key Suppliers

Once your date and venue are sorted, get the main suppliers booked: photographer, caterer, band/DJ, florist, hair and makeup. Good ones get snapped up fast.

Talk to a few before committing, check their work, and make sure they get your vision. It helps if you actually like them too — you’ll be spending a lot of time together on the day.

5. Guest List Time (Yes, It’s Tricky)

This part’s rarely fun, but you’ve gotta do it. Start with your must-haves (family, close friends) and work out from there. Be prepared for some give and take — and try not to let it cause stress. The people who really matter will be there.

6. Dresses, Suits & All That Jazz

Whether you’re buying off the rack or going full couture, give yourself time — especially for alterations. Don’t forget shoes, accessories, and outfits for your wedding party. Try not to overthink it. If it feels like “you,” you’re probably onto a winner.

7. The Fun Bits: Food, Music, Decor

This is where your personality really shines through. Think about:

• What food you actually love

• Music that gets people dancing (or crying, depending on the moment)

• Decor that makes the space feel like yours

You don’t need to copy Pinterest to make it special. Sometimes simple is better.

8. Invites, Seating Plans & Final Details

Send out save-the-dates around 6–9 months ahead, and invitations 2–3 months before the big day. Then there’s seating charts, timelines, speeches, playlists, favours… it gets a bit admin-heavy here, but you’re nearly there.

Also, make a “wedding day emergency kit” — think plasters, sewing kit, tissues, mints, etc. You'll thank yourself later.

9. The Week Before: Breathe

Do a final check-in with your venue and suppliers. Confirm arrival times, run sheets, who’s bringing what. Then let go of the small stuff. Something will go off-plan — and it’s okay. You’re getting married. That’s the only part that really matters.

10. Soak It All In

Seriously. The day will fly by. Take little moments with your partner to pause, look around, and take mental snapshots. You don’t get this exact feeling again.

One Last Thought...

Weddings aren’t about impressing people. They’re about celebrating your love, in your own way, with the people who matter. Whether that’s 20 guests or 200, a rented castle or a local community hall — if it feels like “you,” you’re doing it right.