We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This is at no additional cost to you.
Introduction
Wedding Planning Checklist – Newly engaged? Congratulations! The first 100 days after saying “yes” are a crucial time to celebrate, reflect, and lay the foundation for a stress-free wedding planning process. Instead of rushing into decisions, take this time to soak in the joy, align expectations with your partner, and plan thoughtfully.
With 2025 wedding trends emphasizing personalized experiences, social media integration, and sustainability, this guide provides a structured approach to help modern couples stay on track. Plus, grab our free interactive wedding planning checklist to keep everything organized!
# 1: Wedding Planning Checklist – Enjoy Your Engagement First
Why It Matters:
This milestone deserves intentionality—before making big decisions, take time (a good 30 days) to celebrate and reflect.
- Celebrate privately before making announcements.
- Discuss marriage expectations with your partner.
- Make a list of people who are most important in your life today and those who may play a key role in your future.
- Consider the average age and energy of your guest list to shape the party atmosphere.
- Open a wedding savings account or investment fund (like M1 Finance) to start saving jointly.
- Get a high-rewards credit card (Chase Sapphire) to cover deposits and earn points for honeymoon expenses.
- Secure your wedding website domain name early—you can add a placeholder page while listing registry or cash gift options.
Pro Tip: Consider live streaming your ceremony for guests who can’t attend in person.
# 2: Wedding Planning Checklist – Choosing the Perfect Venue
Why It Matters:
Your venue sets the tone for your wedding, but at this stage, you’re exploring options—not necessarily booking yet.
Compare Different Venue Styles:
- Ballroom hotels for a classic, elegant wedding
- Barn venues for a rustic and charming feel
- Modern industrial spaces for a sleek, contemporary look
Wedding Planning Checklist: Steps to Take Now:
- Tour 3-5 venues and compare ambiance, packages, and pricing.
- Consider non-traditional locations or multi-day wedding experiences (a growing trend).
- Ask about vendor flexibility—can you bring your own caterer, florist, etc.?
- Check for sustainability initiatives—eco-conscious venues are gaining popularity.
- Hold off on signing contracts or paying deposits—gather information first.
Set Up Your Wedding Website (Without Event Details Yet)
- Secure your domain name (domains cost ~$10 per year).
- Accept early gifts or cash contributions.
- Upload engagement photos.
- Avoid adding event details yet (except maybe a general timeframe like “Spring 2026”).
Pro Tip: If planning a destination wedding, secure accommodations early and negotiate group rates. If your guest count fills a certain percentage of rooms, negotiate for a complimentary honeymoon suite for the night before and night of your wedding.
# 3: Wedding Planning Checklist – Compare the Big Five Vendors
Why It Matters:
Vendors book fast! These five key vendors shape your wedding experience:
- Venue
- Photographer & Videographer (Avoid hiring one company for both unless you love their style in both areas!)
- Caterer (Interactive food stations are trending!)
- Wedding Planner (Full, partial, or month-of planning based on wedding size)
- Entertainment (DJ, Band, or specialty performers like a violinist)
What to Do Now:
- Consider hiring a wedding content creator for candid social media footage.
- Review vendor policies on short-form video rights for TikTok & Instagram.
- Compare vendor packages that include same-day reels or digital-only albums.
- Consider drone footage and live streaming for virtual guests.
Pro Tip: A social media specialist can capture unfiltered behind-the-scenes footage that’s often more engaging than professional photos!
# 4: Wedding Planning Checklist – Pick the Best Wedding Date
Why It Matters:
Choosing when to get married affects venue availability, costs, and overall wedding experience. Before locking in a date, consider what’s most important to you:
- Do you want a short engagement (under 12 months) to get married sooner?
- Do you need extra time (15+ months) to save for a dream wedding?
- Does a specific season hold sentimental or aesthetic value?
Seasonal Wedding Considerations:
Fall Wedding (September – November)
- Rich, warm color palettes with rustic aesthetics
- Ideal for outdoor ceremonies with crisp weather
- Peak wedding season—venues and vendors book quickly
- Potential for higher costs due to demand
Winter Wedding (December – February)
- Cozy, intimate vibe with moody lighting and festive decor
- More affordable off-season rates for venues and vendors
- Travel complications due to unpredictable weather
- Holiday conflicts—consider guest availability
Spring Wedding (March – May)
- Fresh blooms and pastel color palettes make for stunning decor
- Mild weather is perfect for garden or outdoor weddings
- Vendor demand begins to rise—book early for best pricing
- Allergies—consider floral choices for sensitive guests
Summer Wedding (June – August)
- Venues and vendors may be more expensive
- Longer daylight hours for outdoor receptions and golden hour photos
- Peak season for travel and destination weddings
- Higher temperatures—plan for shaded areas or indoor options
# 5: Wedding Planning Checklist – Personalization & Viral-Worthy Moments
Why It Matters:
Unique, interactive experiences make weddings unforgettable.
- Choose a wedding aesthetic that reflects 2025’s top trends (ethereal, moody, or futuristic).
- Create a Pinterest & Instagram mood board to refine your vision.
- Add personal touches—audio guest books, digital photo booths, and custom neon signs.
- Use an AI-powered seating chart for easier guest management.
- Plan Instagrammable moments (drone exits, interactive dance floors).
- Consider an intimate live-streamed ceremony for special guests who can’t attend.
Wrap-up
By following this Wedding Planning Checklist in your first 100 days after engagement, you’ll lay a solid foundation for a stress-free, trend-forward wedding that reflects your love story. Need help staying on track? Download our free interactive Wedding Planning Checklist today!
📌 Bookmark this post and start planning your dream wedding with 2025’s top trends in mind.
📌Additional Resource: Check out this quick guide I made on Why Every Couple Needs a Website and Hashtag
