Okay – it’s happening. You’ve got the ring, maybe a rough date in mind, and a thousand saved Pins (we don’t judge). This is the very beginning of your wedding planning era – and I’ve got checklists and timelines for every part of it!
Consider me your unofficial planning bestie meets design-obsessed voice of reason. I’m here to help you dream big, stay grounded, and create a wedding that feels beautiful and like you. This first month isn’t about stressing over centerpieces or final headcounts. It’s about setting a strong, stylish, and intentional foundation for everything that follows. Here’s what to focus on:
Define the Aesthetic
Let’s start with the fun part. Moodboards, playlists, voice notes to your partner at 2am saying “hear me out…forest disco elopement.” Whether you’re into garden romance or candlelit minimalism, now’s the time to gather inspiration and see what themes naturally show up.
- Make a shared Pinterest board or moodboard to collect visuals.
- Ask yourself: What do I want people to feel at this wedding?
- Is it giving timeless & chic, cozy & rustic, bold & playful, whimsical fairy princess bride?
Set your budget (yes, now)
Not the sexiest part of wedding planning, but definitely the smartest. Knowing your numbers early helps everything else flow. Be honest with each other (and any family contributing) about priorities, and give yourself flexibility where it counts.
- Break it down into categories you care about most (food, fashion, florals).
- Add a buffer – there are always surprise expenses.
- Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet that doesn’t make your eyes glaze over.
Lock in the date & venue
Once your date and venue are secured, you’ve officially got a wedding on the calendar – and that unlocks everything else.
- Start researching venues and schedule walk-throughs.
- Ask about included amenities (tables, chairs, rain plan).
- Consider your guest count and vibe – intimate garden? Art gallery downtown?
Pick your people
Choose your wedding party early so they can be part of the journey. Whether it’s one bestie or ten, this is your inner circle.
- Ask in a way that feels personal – a handwritten note, a mini gift box, or just a coffee date and a big hug.
- Let them know what to expect (no surprises when group chats start).
Start the guest list
It doesn’t have to be final, but you need a working draft to shape everything from budget to venue capacity.
- Build a shared Google Sheet to track names, RSVPs, and dietary info.
- Sort into ‘non-negotiables’ and ‘nice-to-haves’.
Sprinkle-in extras:
- Get a cute wedding planning notebook (or a digital Notion board if that’s more your vibe).
- Celebrate with a mini engagement shoot or dinner with your closest people.
- Choose a scent you’ll wear on the day – scent memory is real magic.
What couples often skip At This Stage (but shouldn’t):
- Avoiding the budget talk (do it now, thank yourself later).
- Waiting too long to book the venue – popular spots go fast.
- Not aligning on your vibe – make sure you and your partner are on the same page, moodboard and all.
So pour yourself something sparkly, open that planning doc, and let’s start building the most intentional, aesthetic, joy-filled wedding of your dreams. This is your ‘Pinterest & Prosecco’ era – and I’m so glad to be here with you!
Next up: 10 Months Out – where your Pinterest board meets the real world and you start booking the dream team.
