The First 5 steps Towards Booking Your Wedding Now You’re Engaged.
Firstly- congratulations on your engagement! It’s such an exciting step for any couple, and a milestone which in itself should be cherished. For many couples, the prospect of planning a wedding can seem daunting at first. We’ve compiled a list, in priority order, of what you need to do in order to book your dream day.
1) Discuss your priorities as a couple
Before diving into the planning details, take some time to sit down with your partner and talk about what’s most important to each of you. Do you both envision a grand celebration with a long guest list, or is an intimate gathering more your style? Are you dreaming of a destination wedding or a venue closer to home? These conversations can cover big-picture aspects, as well as smaller details such as preferred color schemes, themes, and personal touches.
Working out your shared vision from the start helps avoid potential disagreements later and ensures the day reflects both of your personalities and values.
2) Set a budget
Your budget will shape every aspect of your wedding, so this is a vital step to tackle early. Start by determining how much you’re comfortable spending and, if applicable, whether family members will contribute. Be sure to leave some wiggle room for unexpected costs, as these are almost inevitable—whether it’s extra fees from vendors or last-minute adjustments.
Within your budget, decide where to splurge and where to save. For instance, is it more important to you to have an elaborate gown, a dream venue, or an amazing photographer? Allocating funds based on your top priorities will make the budgeting process feel more intentional.
3) Write your invite list to work out numbers
With your budget in mind, start drafting a guest list. Since many venues and vendors charge on a per-person basis, the number of guests will have a direct impact on your expenses. Be prepared to make tough decisions—keeping the list manageable is key to staying within budget.
Consider factors such as whether to allow plus-ones or children, and communicate clearly with family members about any limits on the guest count. It may feel tricky or embarrassing at first, but your loved ones will understand that this day is about you both.
4) Book your venue
Your wedding venue is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make, as it sets the tone for the entire event and determines your wedding date. If you’ve fallen in love with a specific venue, try to be flexible with dates—popular spots often book out far in advance, especially during peak seasons or on weekends. Once you’ve secured your venue, you can confidently move forward with the rest of the planning.
If you’re considering a countryside wedding in England, Bennetts Willow Barn in Worcestershire is an excellent option. Nestled on a picturesque farm, it offers a rustic, charming atmosphere perfect for creating lasting memories. With stunning natural surroundings, it’s ideal for couples seeking a beautiful and serene setting for their big day. Feel free to take a look around our website, check out some testimonials or get in touch.
5) Book your suppliers
Once your venue and date are locked in, it’s time to start booking your suppliers. These might include a caterer, florist, photographer, wedding planner, and entertainment such as live music or a DJ. Popular vendors tend to get booked quickly, so secure these essentials as early as possible.
When researching suppliers, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from your venue—they often have preferred vendors who know the space well. Additionally, read reviews, ask plenty of questions, and ensure you feel confident about your choices before signing contracts.
Attending wedding fayres organised by vennues whose vibe you like is a great pleace to start, as suppliers who often work at a venue will usually share the same ethos, values and vibe as that venue, and so will look to book their couples. We are hosting our own fayres this winter on Sundays 19th January and 16th February 2025 – you can sign to attend up here!
Booking your wedding can feel overwhelming, but follow these steps and take it one day at a time. Ultimately this day is about you celebrating with friends and family and committing to each other for a lifetime. If you need help and want a laid back wedding feel then come down and chat to us at Bennetts Willow Barn, we would love to celebrate with you.
