Where to Start with Wedding Planning (and How to Budget Smartly)
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You’ve said yes!
There’s a ring on your finger, your heart’s racing with excitement, and suddenly everyone’s asking the same question — “So when’s the big day?”
And that’s when it hits you… you actually have to plan this thing.
Before you spiral down a Pinterest rabbit hole or start comparing venues, take a deep breath. Planning your wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — it just needs a starting point (and maybe a little guidance from someone who’s been there a few hundred times before).
Here’s how I always recommend couples begin:
Step 1: Choose your wedding planner early
I may be biased, but truthfully, choosing your planner early on is one of the smartest things you can do. A wedding planner becomes your compass — helping you figure out what matters most, where to start, and how to avoid the usual stress traps.
From setting your budget to recommending reliable vendors, a planner can save you both time and money in the long run. (And yes — if you’re dreaming of an intimate, beautifully curated celebration, By Anrike would love to help.)
Step 2: Start with your guest list
Before you look at venues, sit down with your partner and decide who you truly want there.
Your guest list shapes everything else — from the size of your venue to your catering quote and stationery needs.
Most venues charge per head, so having even a rough number helps you budget realistically and keeps expectations clear from day one.
I always say, your guest list is the foundation of your wedding budget.
Step 3: Find your venue and pick your date
Once you know your numbers and your vibe, start venue hunting.
Do you picture a countryside barn with fairy lights? A moody wine estate? An intimate garden with long tables under the stars?
Your venue sets the tone — and locks in your wedding date, which allows you to start booking your photographer (hello 👋) and other suppliers.
Step 4: Define your style and priorities
This is where the fun begins. What feeling do you want your day to have — romantic, rustic, editorial, playful? Once you know the vibe, your décor, flowers, stationery, and even dress style will start falling into place naturally.
And if the idea of designing invitations or signage sounds daunting, you can still keep it personal and affordable — By Anrike can help design custom stationery like invitations, menus, and seating charts that fit your theme perfectly.
Smart Ways to Budget for Your Wedding
1. Break your budget down
Think of your budget as a puzzle: venue, food, photography, dress, décor — each piece deserves its space. Writing it all out (even in a simple Notion board or spreadsheet) helps you see where your money’s going and keeps surprises to a minimum.
2. DIY with intention
Not everything needs to be outsourced. From handwritten place cards to digital invites, there are plenty of creative ways to save while keeping your day cohesive.
**By Anrike offers custom design for stationery and signage, perfect for couples who want to cut costs without losing style.
3. Expect the unexpected
There are always a few sneaky extras — transport, gratuities, beauty trials, or last-minute décor touches. Set aside about 10% of your budget for the “just-in-case” moments. Future-you will be grateful.
In the End
Your wedding day is a story — your story — and planning it should feel like part of the journey, not just a checklist.
Start with the people you love, find a space that feels like “you,” and surround yourself with vendors who truly get your vision. Everything else falls beautifully into place.
And if you ever need someone to help you bring it all together — from planning to photography to the little design details — By Anrike is right here to make it effortless, personal, and unforgettable.