You're Engaged, Now What? A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Dream Wedding

Congratulations on your engagement! You’ve just said “yes” to the love of your life, and now comes the exciting, albeit sometimes overwhelming, task of planning your wedding. Whether you’ve envisioned every detail of your special day for years or are just beginning to explore the possibilities, one thing is clear: your wedding day will be one of the most important moments of your life. So, where do you start? And how do you make sure everything falls into place perfectly?

Let’s take a step-by-step approach to guide you through the process, from choosing the right local wedding photographer to securing the ideal venue and making decisions that will ensure your day is everything you’ve dreamed of.

1. Celebrate and Enjoy the Moment

Before you dive into the whirlwind of wedding planning, take a moment to celebrate your engagement. This time is all about you and your partner, so enjoy it! Share the news with family and friends, celebrate with loved ones, and relish in the excitement. There’s no rush to start planning immediately—allow yourself to savour this moment of joy and anticipation before you start working on the logistics.

2. Set a Wedding Budget

Once the excitement has calmed down, it's time to start thinking about the financial aspect of your wedding. Creating a budget is one of the most important steps in the planning process. Your budget will help guide your decisions as you move forward and ensure that you're staying within your means. Be realistic about what you can afford and prioritise your must-haves, such as your venue, catering, and wedding photographer.

When it comes to your wedding photographer, it’s crucial to allocate a portion of your budget to secure the right professional. A wedding photographer is one of the most important investments for your big day. The photos captured will last a lifetime, so it’s essential to find someone who understands your vision and style. If you’re looking for a Chesterfield wedding photographer or a Derbyshire wedding photographer, it’s worth doing your research early on to ensure you book someone whose work resonates with you.

3. Choose Your Wedding Date

Selecting a wedding date is a key decision. Some couples choose a date that’s meaningful to them, such as the anniversary of when they met, while others choose a date based on the availability of venues or vendors. It’s important to think about the time of year, as this can affect your choice of venue, the overall atmosphere, and your wedding attire. If you're planning a wedding in the Derbyshire or Chesterfield area, be sure to consider the weather, as the seasons can vary significantly.

4. Research and Book Your Venue

Your wedding venue will set the tone for the entire day, so choosing the right one is crucial. Whether you're dreaming of a grand celebration in a historic manor, a rustic barn wedding, or a more intimate ceremony at a local venue, there are plenty of options to explore in Chesterfield and Derbyshire. Take the time to visit several venues, ask questions, and envision how each one will complement your theme and style.

Many couples opt for venues that are located in the heart of Derbyshire's countryside, taking advantage of the stunning views and picturesque backdrops for their wedding photos. A local wedding photographer can be incredibly helpful in these situations, as they know the best locations for breathtaking photographs and can guide you on how to make the most of your venue.

5. Secure Your Wedding Photographer

One of the first vendors you’ll want to book is your wedding photographer. Why? Popular photographers often book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. It’s essential to find someone whose style matches your vision for your wedding day. If you’re located in Chesterfield or Derbyshire, you’ll be pleased to know there are many talented local wedding photographers, including Jordans Photography, that specialise in capturing every special moment with care and creativity.

When researching photographers, take the time to browse through their portfolios to get a sense of their style. Do you prefer traditional, posed photographs, or are you more drawn to candid, documentary-style shots? Jordan's Photography, for example, is known for its ability to blend both styles seamlessly, providing couples with a well-rounded collection of memories.

Book an initial consultation with potential photographers to ensure that you feel comfortable with them. They’ll be there with you throughout the day, so it's important to establish a rapport. Discuss your preferences, timeline, and the specific moments you’d like captured. A good wedding photographer will also offer guidance on how to pose for portraits, make suggestions for the best lighting, and recommend great photo locations.

6. Hire Other Vendors

Once you’ve secured your photographer, it’s time to focus on other vendors. Think about the following categories:

• Catering: Whether you choose a formal sit-down dinner, buffet, or food trucks, your catering choices will have a significant impact on your wedding day. Consider your guests' preferences, dietary restrictions, and your overall wedding theme when selecting your menu.

• Florist: Your flowers will play a major role in the décor of your wedding. From the bridal bouquet to the centrepieces, flowers add beauty and elegance. Find a florist who understands your vision and can create arrangements that match your colour scheme and theme.

• Entertainment: The music at your wedding sets the mood for the entire day. Consider hiring a DJ or live band to get the party started. Discuss your preferred songs and styles with them to ensure they play music that reflects your personality and style.

• Hair and Makeup Artists: Start researching hair and makeup artists well in advance. You want to feel your absolute best on your wedding day, so it’s important to hire professionals who can bring your bridal beauty vision to life.

  
  

7. Create Your Guest List

Creating your guest list is another key element of wedding planning. It’s important to consider both the venue’s capacity and your budget when determining how many people to invite. Your guest list will influence many decisions, from the size of your venue to your catering options. Keep in mind that not everyone you invite will be able to attend, but it’s always a good idea to have a list of potential guests just in case.

8. Choose Your Wedding Attire

Now comes the fun part: choosing your wedding dress and attire. This is the moment when you get to feel like a princess (or a king!). If you're in Chesterfield or Derbyshire, there are many boutiques and bridal shops where you can find a variety of wedding gowns. Consider your body type, wedding theme, and personal style when selecting your attire. Don’t forget to schedule fittings and alterations to ensure that everything fits perfectly on the big day.

9. Plan Your Wedding Day Timeline

Creating a timeline for your wedding day is essential. Your photographer, vendors, and wedding planner (if you have one) will all need to know when certain events are happening, so they can prepare and stay on schedule. Include time for getting ready, the ceremony, the reception, and any special moments like speeches or a first dance.

10. Take Care of the Legalities

Before your big day, don’t forget about the legal aspects of getting married. Ensure that you’ve applied for your marriage license, and check the legal requirements for getting married in the UK. Your venue or wedding planner can help guide you through this process.

11. Enjoy the Big Day

The big day has finally arrived! Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. Trust your vendors, including your local wedding photographer, to capture all the details of your day. Focus on your partner, your family, and your friends, and soak in the love and joy that surrounds you.

In the end, your wedding day is about celebrating the start of a new chapter in your life with the person you love. While the planning process can be stressful at times, remember that it’s all worth it when you walk down the aisle and say “I do.”

By carefully considering your options, including selecting the perfect local wedding photographer such as Jordans Photography, you can rest assured knowing that your wedding day will be beautifully documented for years to come.