Just Engaged? Here’s What to Consider When Planning Your Wedding Checklist

First of all, congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’re probably staring at a sparkly new ring and thinking, where do we even start?  Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Think of this post as your very first wedding planning checklist - simple steps to get you moving in the right direction.

1. Celebrate Before You Plan

It’s tempting to dive straight into spreadsheets and Pinterest boards, but take a moment to enjoy being engaged. Share the news with loved ones, have a celebratory dinner, and soak up the excitement before the planning begins.

2. Talk About Your Priorities

Every couple is different. For some, food is the most important element. For others, it’s the setting, music, or photography. Sit down together and decide your “top three priorities” - this will help guide your budget and decisions later on. (Think of it as step two on your wedding planning checklist.)

3. Guest List First, Venue Second

Your guest numbers will influence almost every choice you make, from venue size to catering costs. Draft a rough guest list early so you can search for venues that fit your vision (and everyone you’d love to have there).

4. Choose the Right Venue for You

Think about the type of celebration you’d like. Do you want a one-day event, or does the idea of a weekend-long gathering appeal? Outdoor structures like marquees and tipis allow for creativity and flexibility, while a wedding venue with accommodation (like Heathy Lea!) gives you and your guests more time to relax and celebrate together.

5. Set a Realistic Budget

Money conversations aren’t always romantic, but they are essential. Be clear on how much you’d like to spend, what contributions (if any) family members are making, and where your priorities lie. Build in a little contingency for last-minute extras.

6. Think Seasonally

The time of year you marry will affect your style, décor, and even your menu. Summer lends itself to outdoor celebrations and lawn games, while autumn weddings bring cosy, rustic vibes and rich colours. Consider how the season ties into your vision.

7. Suppliers You Click With

From photographers to florists to caterers, your suppliers play a huge role in your day. Do your research, ask for recommendations, and choose people you feel comfortable with. A good connection can make the planning process a joy.

8. Personal Touches Go a Long Way

The most memorable weddings are those that reflect the couple’s personality. Think about how you can weave your story into the day - whether that’s through music choices, DIY décor, or a favourite dish on the menu.

9. Don’t Forget the Experience

Your guests will remember how your wedding felt more than the details. Creating space for laughter, dancing, and relaxed moments is just as important as the table settings and flowers.

10. Enjoy the Journey

Wedding planning is a chapter of your love story - not just a checklist. Try to keep it fun, focus on what matters most to you as a couple, and remember that the day itself will be full of magic no matter what.

At Heathy Lea, we love helping couples create unforgettable wedding weekends surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether you picture a marquee celebration, a tipi under the stars, or a relaxed gathering with family and friends, our space is yours to make your own. And if you’re just starting out, keep this post close by as your mini wedding planning checklist - a guide to keep you on track as the adventure begins.

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Your Comprehensive Wedding Planning Checklist

Planning a wedding can feel like a huge task - there are so many details to think about, from choosing the perfect venue to making sure your guests have an unforgettable weekend. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive wedding planning checklist to help you stay organised and make sure nothing important is overlooked.

Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate celebration, a full weekend wedding, or a marquee under the stars, this checklist will guide you through every stage - from the moment you get engaged right through to your post-wedding brunch.

Here’s everything to consider when planning your wedding:

First Things First

• Celebrate your engagement before diving into planning.

• Talk about your vision: intimate or big, formal or relaxed, one day or a weekend.

• Agree on your top 3 priorities (venue, food, atmosphere, photography, etc.).

• Set a budget and decide who’s contributing.

12 - 18 Months Before

• Draft a guest list to get an idea of numbers.

• Research and book your venue - this will shape everything else.

• Decide on a wedding date or season.

• Book key suppliers who get booked up fast (photographer, caterer, celebrant/registrar, band/DJ).

• If hosting a weekend wedding, think about accommodation for you and your guests.

9 - 12 Months Before

• Send “Save the Dates.”

• Choose your marquee, tipi, or structure (if applicable) and start thinking about layout.

• Select your wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, etc.).

• Start thinking about style: colour palette, décor ideas, seasonal flowers.

• Shop for outfits and suits.

• Plan your menu - will you go for a formal dinner, sharing platters, or a relaxed BBQ?

• Consider entertainment (musicians, lawn games, fireworks, etc.).

• Book your florist, hair, and makeup.

6 - 9 Months Before

• Arrange accommodation options for guests if needed.

• Start planning your Friday night welcome (casual drinks, BBQ, pizza, etc.).

• Think about your Sunday celebrations (brunch, lawn games, or a relaxed get-together).

• Begin designing invitations.

• Organise transport (if needed) for guests or yourselves.

• Organise rentals (furniture, tableware, dancefloor, lighting).

• Arrange a tasting or menu run-through with your caterer.

3 - 6 Months Before

• Send invitations.

• Decide on your ceremony details: readings, music, vows.

• Finalise your food and drink choices with your caterer.

• Choose your cake design (or alternatives like dessert tables).

• Buy wedding rings.

1 - 3 Months Before

• Finalise décor details and DIY projects.

• Confirm timings with suppliers and create a rough schedule for the weekend.

• Write your vows (if personalising).

Final Few Weeks

• Create seating plan and place cards.

• Confirm final numbers with your venue and caterers.

• Pack a wedding day emergency kit (safety pins, tissues, plasters, mints, etc.).

• Organise payments/tips for suppliers.

• Delegate roles for the weekend (someone to greet guests, coordinate music, etc.).

• Take time for a final pre-wedding date night to relax together.

On the Weekend Itself

• Friday: Welcome your guests, settle in, and start the celebrations stress-free.

• Saturday: Enjoy the best day of your lives!

• Sunday: Host a relaxed farewell brunch or BBQ, reliving the memories.