Where do I even begin with wedding planning?

Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but the good news is there are practical steps you can take to ease into the process. If you're feeling stuck, here's some realistic and approachable advice to help you get started:

1. Talk to friends who have gone through the process

One of the easiest ways to start is by reaching out to friends or family members who have planned their weddings. They can share valuable insights, recommend trusted vendors, and even warn you about common mistakes to avoid. Personal experiences are often more helpful than generalized advice, and you’ll gain confidence hearing how others navigated the process.

2. Attend a wedding show or expo

Wedding shows and expos are fantastic resources for couples just starting their planning journey. They allow you to connect directly with vendors, see their work firsthand, and gather pricing details. In Toronto, the biggest wedding shows typically take place in January and September, making them the perfect opportunity to explore what services are available and compare your options. These events can also give you a clearer picture of current trends and help you find inspiration for your big day.

3. Set a vision and priorities

Before diving into decisions, take some time to sit down as a couple and discuss your wedding vision. Think about the size of your wedding (small and intimate or big and grand?), your preferred vibe (traditional, modern, or something else?), and your priorities (great photos, fantastic food, or unforgettable entertainment). Knowing your priorities will guide all your planning decisions.

4. Research and create a budget

Start by researching the average costs for weddings in your city. In Toronto, a basic wedding typically averages around $40,000, though costs will vary depending on your choices. Build a budget with this in mind, and allocate funds based on your priorities. Be sure to leave room for unexpected expenses to avoid surprises later.

5. Start small and work your way up

Tackling everything at once can feel overwhelming. Start with one manageable task, such as drafting a rough guest list, and move forward step by step. Once you have your guest count, you can focus on booking the venue—then the core vendors, and so on.

6. Don’t overthink the details right away

While details like decor and favors can elevate your wedding, they don’t need to be planned immediately. Focus on locking down the major components first, like venue, catering, photography, and entertainment, and leave the smaller elements for later.

Enjoy the journey

Wedding planning doesn’t have to be all stress. It’s an exciting adventure that celebrates your love and the life you’re building together. Take breaks, share laughs with your partner, and savor the little moments as you make decisions.

When should I book wedding vendors and in what order?

Planning your wedding involves juggling numerous tasks, and booking vendors is one of the most crucial parts of the process. To help you stay organized, this suggested timeline provides a guide for when and in what order to secure your vendors. While every wedding is unique, following these recommendations can make the planning process smoother and ensure your dream team is available for your big day.

The wedding vendor booking timeline

Below is a step-by-step breakdown of when and in what order to book your wedding vendors, starting from the moment you set your wedding date:

12–18 months before the wedding

1. Venue: Your venue sets the tone for your wedding, so book this first to lock in your date.

2. Planner (if needed): A wedding planner can guide you through every step. If you need one, secure them early for the best options.

3. Photographer/Videographer: The best photographers and videographers book out quickly, so this is the next priority.

9–12 months before the wedding

1. Wedding attire: Brides should start looking for their gowns during this period to allow enough time for fittings and alterations. Don’t forget about the groom’s attire.

2. Caterer: If your venue doesn’t include catering, this should be your next focus.

3. Entertainment: Whether it’s a DJ, live band, or both, book your entertainment early to ensure availability.

4. Florist: Discussing designs and securing a florist during this timeframe is ideal.

6–9 months before the wedding

1. Officiant: If you’re hiring someone outside of a church or temple, book your officiant here.

2. Hair and makeup artists: Look for professionals who match your style and schedule trials before finalizing.

3. Wedding cake baker: It’s a sweet detail, so find a baker who can bring your vision to life.

4. Decor and rentals: From furniture to lighting and other decor elements, confirm what you need and book it.

1–3 months before the wedding

1. Finalize all bookings: Confirm all services and schedules with vendors to ensure everything is on track.

Additional tips

• Stay flexible: If your desired vendor is unavailable, have alternatives in mind.

• Communicate your vision: Share as much detail as possible with your vendors to ensure they understand your preferences and expectations.

• Keep track: Create a spreadsheet to organize vendor contact details, payment schedules, and deadlines.

Find your dream photo and video team

Your wedding memories deserve to be captured perfectly. Let us help you preserve those special moments with our professional photography and videography services. Our packages are designed to fit a variety of budgets. Explore our Toronto wedding photos and video packages along with prices to see how we can help make your day truly unforgettable.