Newly Engaged? 6 First Steps to Start Planning Your Ohio Wedding

You’re engaged!

Cue the “so when’s the big day?” question from every single person you know (and even some you don’t).

But let’s get real for a second: Once the initial glow settles in, you might be hit with the overwhelming realization that planning a wedding isn’t exactly as effortless as saying “yes.”

If you’re already balancing work, family, social life, and maybe a Netflix binge or two, adding wedding planning to your to-do list can feel downright impossible.

Maybe you’re the type who’s been curating Pinterest boards since 2014, or maybe you’re staring at your empty wedding planning notebook, wondering, “Where do I even start?”

Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful—even when you’re being pulled in a million directions or feel like you have no clue what you’re doing.

So let’s talk about tackling those crucial first steps to get you on the right track, save you time, and keep the stress levels low(er).

So buckle up (or, you know, grab another glass of bubbly), because we’re diving into the 6 must-dos that will make this whole wedding planning thing way less intimidating and way more fun!

1. Hire a Wedding Planner

You might be thinking, “Do we really need a wedding planner?” So humor me for a second.

If you were spending $50,000 on a home renovation, would you ask an expert to help you make smart choices, stay on budget, and avoid costly mistakes?

Of course you would! Wedding planning is no different.

Hiring a wedding planner from the very beginning can save you hours of research, reduce stress, and ensure that you’re making the right decisions early on. I’ll help you set priorities, create a realistic timeline, and navigate vendor selections—all while making sure your budget is in check and your vision is coming to life.

Bringing a planner on board early means less work for you!

When you're balancing a busy work schedule and other responsibilities, having someone on your side to handle the logistics means you can stay focused on your job and your life, rather than stressing over every single wedding detail.

From vendor recommendations to contract negotiations, I'll make sure you’re not only on the right track but that everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying this special time with your fiance.

2. Start with Priorities

Before you book a venue or browse Pinterest, sit down with your partner and decide on your top priorities.

What’s most important to you?

A stunning venue, amazing food, or a lively dance floor? The answer to this question will help you allocate your budget and energy toward what truly matters to you both.

Can’t figure it out? That’s where I come in.

I can help you narrow down your priorities (and maybe even prevent an argument with your in-laws before they’re even officially your in-laws). By narrowing down your top priorities, you’ll find that decisions become easier as you move forward—whether it's choosing a photographer or deciding on a color scheme.

Don’t forget!

AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Bard can assist also with venue and vendor searches, tailoring suggestions to your budget, location, and style. Instead of spending hours scrolling through reviews, AI can summarize top options and provide contact details.

But remember—our robot friends are just a starting point.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, the personal touch of visiting venues or talking to vendors directly will ensure your choices align with your vision.

3. Choose and Reserve Your Venue(s)

Your venue sets the tone for your wedding, so it’s one of the first big decisions you’ll need to make.

Do you dream of an outdoor garden ceremony, a glamorous ballroom, or a rustic barn? Whatever your vision, your venue choice will shape much of your wedding’s style and feel.

And not to be dramatic, but it’s a decision that can’t wait.

Venues tend to book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season, so locking in your date early is key to ensuring you get the space you’ve been envisioning.

Beyond setting the vibe, your venue can be one of the largest expenses in your wedding budget. If you’re selecting a location where catering is part of the venue rental, this decision will steer much of your planning—from guest count to menu style—and impact how you allocate the rest of your budget.

Think of your venue as the foundation upon which the rest of your wedding details are built.

UNLESS your priority is your guest list in which case, create that first then find a venue that fits all of your friends and family.

Feeling overwhelmed already? Don’t worry—this is where I come in.

Whether you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for or feel completely lost, I’m here to guide you through the process. I’ll help you narrow down options based on your vision, budget, and guest list, saving you hours of research and countless weekends of stressful decision-making.

Many couples don’t realize that a wedding planner can handle much of the venue legwork for you. From researching options and scheduling tours to asking all the right questions (yes, including “What’s the backup plan if it rains?”), I’ll do it all.

If your weekends are already packed with work and life commitments, I can even attend tours on your behalf and present you with a curated shortlist of the best options.

Choosing your venue is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. Let’s find the perfect spot that brings your wedding vision to life while keeping your planning process as smooth as possible.

4. Create a Timeline that Works with Your Busy Life

A wedding timeline is key to staying on track without feeling overwhelmed. Break major tasks like finding a caterer or sending out invitations into smaller steps and assign deadlines based on your schedule. If something doesn’t go as planned, don’t stress—build flexibility into your timeline.

You might be thinking, “But Janet, I don’t even know where to start.”

If that’s the case, I have good news. I created an entire wedding timeline built from over 25 years of experience.

And it’s available to you for free!

My couples not only have access to this timeline, but they also have me by their side to guide them every step of the way, bringing over 25 years of experience to make their wedding planning journey seamless.

It’s a tried-and-true guide to help you confidently navigate the planning journey because I know that wedding planning is just one part of your already full life. Between work, family commitments, and social obligations, adding "wedding planning" to the to-do list can feel overwhelming.

Dedicate specific times each week to focus on the planning, but also don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to professionals like a wedding planner who can coordinate everything from vendor management to the timeline for the big day.

That way, you don’t have to worry about how many flowers are needed for the centerpieces or whether your photographer has your exact vision in mind.

Because your planner will have it all covered.

For quick questions, AI chatbots embedded in wedding websites can provide helpful answers, like “What’s the average cost of catering in my area?” or “How far in advance should I book a florist?”

Now let’s clarify… AI can’t replace the full-service support a planner offers.

But it’s great for quick answers to easy (less personal) questions. A good planner will be your personal guide, helping you prioritize your time and budget, while keeping things on track—so you don’t have to sacrifice work productivity or weekend relaxation time to keep your wedding plans moving forward.

Leverage all tools at your disposal to save time while staying organized.

Still, it’s important to carve out moments to relax and enjoy the process. Remember, planning a wedding is about celebrating your love—not just checking off tasks.

And the best way to do that is by getting support from a professional who can take the stress off your plate and help you stay on top of everything.

5. Build a Budget

Weddings are a significant investment—did you know the average cost of a wedding in Cleveland, Ohio, is around $30,000? When you’re spending as much as you might on a new car or a major home renovation, you wouldn’t dive in without a plan, right?

Approach wedding budgeting with the same mindset.

Start with broad categories (venue, food, photography) and refine as you get quotes. Don’t forget to factor in hidden costs like gratuities, last-minute changes, or unexpected decor additions.

It’s always smart to include a buffer in your budget for any surprises.

AI-powered budgeting apps, such as Mint or Honeyfund, can track expenses and suggest cost-saving measures. These tools are great for keeping an overview of your finances, but creating a budget that aligns with your priorities requires thoughtful decision-making.

Use the data AI provides to stay on track, but remember—just like hiring a contractor for that expensive home project, having expert guidance from someone who knows the ins and outs of wedding planning can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run.

6. Get Inspired (Without Going Overboard)

Your wedding should feel uniquely yours. Use this stage to explore ideas for décor, colors, and themes that resonate with you and your partner. Platforms like Canva or Pinterest can help you visualize your dream day, find trends, and refine your ideas into a cohesive look.

But here's the deal—don’t let Pinterest and social media send you into a budget meltdown.

Those gorgeous photos? They might be from styled photo shoots, not real weddings, and the price tag on those picture-perfect details could be more than your car payment!

It's so fun to scroll through dreamy weddings with cascading floral walls and extravagant dessert tables.

BUT remember…

What you see on your screen isn’t always a reflection of reality (or your budget).

Once you have a clear vision, bring it to life by incorporating personal touches that reflect your love story.

Most importantly, don’t get so caught up in the details that you forget to enjoy this special time. Take a breath and celebrate the little milestones, like booking your venue or saying “yes” to the dress, and remember that the ultimate goal is to marry your best friend.

Cheers to a joyful planning journey and an unforgettable wedding day!