What’s The First Wedding Thing We Should Book? First Wedding Vendor You Should Book ASAP. Securing Your Wedding Day: The First Booking You Should Make. Planning Your Wedding? Here’s What to Book First.
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, and the first thing you book sets the tone for the entire event. Here are the top five things you should book first, why they’re crucial, and how to manage the rest of your planning to keep the process stress-free and fun.
What’s The First Wedding Thing We Should Book
1. The Venue
The venue is the cornerstone of your wedding day. It influences every other decision, from the date and guest list to the style and vibe of the celebration. Popular venues can book up to a year or more in advance, so this should be your first priority.
Once you secure your venue, everything else can start to fall into place. Set your sights on your dream location, and be ready to act fast when you find the perfect spot.
2. The Photographer/Videographer
Your wedding day will fly by, but your photos and videos will last forever. Booking a talented photographer and videographer early on is essential because the best ones get snapped up quickly.
Their availability might also influence your wedding date, so this is the second thing to check off your list. Look for someone whose style resonates with you and who can capture the essence of your day perfectly.
3. The Wedding Planner
If you’re planning to hire a wedding planner, do so early. A planner will help you navigate the entire process, offering invaluable advice, vendor recommendations, and stress-relief strategies.
Having a planner on board from the start ensures that your vision is brought to life with minimal stress. They can also help you manage your budget and timeline, making sure nothing falls through the cracks.
4. The Caterer
Food is a major part of any celebration, and great catering can elevate your wedding experience. Many popular caterers are booked months in advance, so securing your top choice early is a must.
Consider the type of meal you want, whether it’s a formal dinner, buffet, or something more casual, and find a caterer who can deliver on your vision.
Some venues already have their in-house catering and this can help you save time and money. They also usually offer all-inclusive packages that you can take advantage of.
5. The Entertainment
Whether it’s a DJ, band, or solo musician, your entertainment will keep the party going and create unforgettable memories.
Good entertainers are in high demand, so once you have your venue, reach out to your favorite performers and lock them in. They’ll help set the mood for your celebration, from the ceremony to the last dance.
Managing the Rest (What’s The First Wedding Thing We Should Book)
Once these big-ticket items are booked, you’ll feel a lot more relaxed. The rest of the bookings, like florists, transportation, and decor, can be managed in the months leading up to the wedding.
Create a timeline and prioritize what’s most important to you. To keep stress at bay, take things one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to your family or your wedding planner.
Booking Timeline
Ideally, you should book your venue 12-18 months in advance.
The photographer/videographer and wedding planner should be booked 10-12 months out, with the caterer and entertainment following closely at 8-10 months before the big day. By spacing out your bookings, you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed and can enjoy the planning process.
What You Really Need To Know: What’s The First Wedding Thing We Should Book
As you start your wedding planning journey, it’s crucial to start with the right steps to ensure a smooth process. The ultimate wedding planning checklist emphasizes the importance of booking your wedding venue first, as it sets the foundation for your entire celebration. Once you’ve secured your venue, you can move on to creating your guest list and hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to assist you with the logistics. Don’t forget to consider your wedding date, as this will influence the availability of vendors, including your wedding photographer and other essential services.
In your planning timeline, aim to book your wedding vendors—such as catering, flowers, and entertainment—well in advance, especially if you’re considering a destination wedding. Remember, the earlier you start planning, the more options you’ll have to choose from, allowing you to stick to your budget. Place cards and other details can come later in the planning process, but having the major elements in place is key. With careful organization and the right checklist, your wedding day will be a beautiful reflection of your love story!
