Yes, I do.
- Joy Nguyen

- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it manageable—and even fun. The moment you nod your head and say "I do," a new journey begins—one filled with excitement, discovery, and yes, sometimes a little stress. For many brides, it’s a whirlwind of joy and decisions, with countless questions popping up every day. As a florist, I’ve seen so many brides feel this way—unsure where to start, what to prioritize,

and how to juggle all the orders, ideas, and dreams swirling in their minds. To help you navigate this journey with confidence, here’s a structured guide you can follow from start to finish:
1. Set Your Vision
Decide the style: formal, casual, rustic, modern, beach, etc.
Choose colors and themes.
Decide the overall vibe: intimate, grand, or elopement style.
2. Set a Budget
Determine how much you can spend overall.
Break it down into categories:
Venue & catering: ~40%
Photography & videography: ~15%
Attire & accessories: ~10%
Flowers & decor: ~10%
Entertainment: ~5–10%
Miscellaneous (stationery, transport, gifts): ~10%
3. Pick a Date and Venue
Decide on a season, month, and possible date range.
Book your venue early (often 12–18 months ahead).
Check availability for key vendors.
4. Make a Guest List
Draft a preliminary list to estimate size.
Decide if it’s a small, medium, or large wedding.
Consider venue capacity and budget constraints.
5. Hire Key Vendors
Photographer / videographer
Caterer / bakery
Florist
Music / DJ / live band
Officiant
Wedding planner (optional, but helpful for stress-free planning)
6. Wedding Attire
Start looking at wedding dresses, suits, or cultural attire early (9–12 months ahead).
Schedule fittings and alterations.
Decide on bridal party outfits.
7. Invitations & Stationery
Choose a design that fits your theme.
Send Save-the-Date cards ~6–8 months ahead.
Mail invitations ~8–12 weeks before the wedding.
8. Plan the Ceremony & Reception
Decide the flow of the ceremony.
Plan the reception schedule: dinner, speeches, first dance, cake cutting.
Arrange seating charts and table settings.
9. Flowers & Decor
Choose bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony decor.
Think about lighting, draping, and signage.
10. Logistics
Arrange transportation for guests and wedding party.
Book accommodation for out-of-town guests.
Plan timelines for hair, makeup, and getting ready.
11. Legal & Paperwork
Apply for marriage license (requirements vary by country/state).
Check if officiants or venues have special regulations.
12. Final Touches
Create a day-of timeline and distribute to vendors.
Confirm final details with all vendors.
Pack an emergency kit (safety pins, sewing kit, painkillers, etc.).
13. Enjoy Your Day
Relax and soak it all in! Your planning will pay off in smooth, beautiful memories.

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