Why You Should Start Planning Your Wedding and Booking Suppliers (at least) a Year in Advance
As a marriage celebrant, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless couples to bring their dream wedding ceremonies to life. One piece of advice I consistently share is this: start planning your wedding and securing your suppliers at least a year in advance. It’s not just about ticking off boxes on your to-do list; it’s about creating the space and opportunity to enjoy the journey toward your big day. Let me explain why this timeline is so important.
1. The Best Suppliers Get Booked Quickly
Wedding vendors are in high demand, especially those who are known for their exceptional work. Venues, celebrants, photographers, florists and stylists often book up a year or more in advance—particularly for popular dates during peak wedding season. By reaching out early, you’re more likely to secure the suppliers you’ve been dreaming of rather than having to settle.
2. More Time Means Less Stress
Planning a wedding is a significant undertaking. Starting early gives you the luxury of time to make decisions thoughtfully without the pressure of looming deadlines. You can research your options, compare prices, and ensure each choice aligns with your vision. Plus, you’ll have time to troubleshoot if any unexpected challenges arise.
3. Budget Management Becomes Easier
When you plan ahead, you’re giving yourself the gift of time to save and allocate your budget wisely. Booking suppliers early often allows you to secure current pricing before potential increases. Many vendors also offer payment plans, which can make managing your finances much smoother.
4. Your Dream Venue Awaits
Your wedding venue sets the tone for the entire day, and it’s one of the first things you should secure. Popular venues—especially those with breathtaking views or unique features—can be booked out years in advance. By acting early, you’ll have your pick of dates and avoid the heartbreak of discovering your dream venue is unavailable.
5. Customisation Takes Time
From personalising your ceremony to curating your décor, creating a wedding that reflects your unique story takes time. Starting early ensures you’re not rushing through these meaningful details. It allows your celebrant to craft a ceremony script that truly captures your love story and gives your florist, stylist, or planner the opportunity to bring your vision to life.
6. Peace of Mind for the Countdown
When you’ve planned ahead, the weeks leading up to your wedding can be spent savoring the excitement rather than scrambling to finalise last-minute details. It’s your time to focus on celebrating with your partner, family, and friends, knowing everything is already in place.
Start Early, Celebrate Fully
Your wedding day is one of the most significant milestones in your life, and it deserves careful thought and preparation. Starting the planning process at least a year in advance allows you to secure the best suppliers, manage your budget, and create a stress-free lead-up to your special day.
As a celebrant, I love working with couples who are excited about the journey to their wedding. Together, we can create a ceremony that’s everything you’ve ever dreamed of—and more. So don’t wait; start planning now. Your perfect day is waiting!