Episode 104: How to Start Planning Your Wedding
Engagement season is magical. It’s exciting. It’s a little chaotic. And if we’re honest? It can feel overwhelming before you even know where to begin.
In this episode of The Flower Files, we’re talking all about how to start planning your wedding — without losing your joy in the process. We sat down with Michelle and Dan from Wed Society to unpack what couples should focus on first, what trends we’re seeing in modern weddings, and how to avoid total decision fatigue.
If you’re newly engaged and flashing that ring while secretly wondering, “Okay… now what?” — this one’s for you.
First Things First: Take a Breath
Before you book anything.
Before you create a 47-tab Pinterest board.
Before you research florists at 2 a.m.
Pause.
Celebrate. Soak it in. This season is short and special. Everyone will tell you to “start planning immediately,” but the best first step is simply enjoying the moment together.
Once you’ve celebrated, then it’s time to talk vision.
Ask yourselves:
- Are we picturing a big party or something intimate?
- Beach vibe or ballroom glam?
- Moody and edgy or romantic and airy?
- What feels like us?
Your vibe becomes the foundation for every decision that follows.
Start With the Right Vendors (Hint: It Might Not Be the Venue)
Traditionally, couples book their venue and photographer first. And yes — those do book quickly.
But here’s the insider perspective:
Consider booking your wedding planner first.
A great planner:
- Helps define your vibe
- Understands your budget
- Suggests venues that match your personality
- Prevents costly mistakes
- Manages logistics you didn’t even know existed
There are layers to weddings today. So many layers.
Which brings us to something most couples don’t realize…
The 16-Vendor Reality (And Why It Feels So Overwhelming)
On average, couples hire 16 wedding vendors.
Let that sink in.
Here’s a glimpse of what that can include:
- Venue
- Planner
- Photographer
- Videographer or content creator
- Florist
- Caterer
- Baker or dessert vendor
- Rentals and decor (sometimes multiple!)
- DJ or band (sometimes both)
- Hair stylist
- Makeup artist
- Officiant
- Signage designer
- Photo booth
- Pet attendant
- Babysitter
- Travel agent (for honeymoon)
And that’s not even counting:
- Late-night snack vendors
- Fireworks
- Live painters
- Custom fashion
- Bouquet preservation
Every single category requires research, calls, emails, comparisons, contracts, and decisions.
On average, couples spend 30 hours researching vendors per category.
Multiply that by 16.
Now you understand why decision fatigue is real.
How to Choose Your Wedding “Vibe”
Your wedding doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.
We’re seeing couples move away from “this is how weddings are supposed to be” and instead ask: “What feels meaningful to us?”
Some couples choose venues that connect to their love story — like a concert venue where they first saw their favorite artist. Others choose sentimental locations tied to childhood memories or summers at the shore.
Your story matters.
When couples lead with their story:
- Florals become more intentional
- Music choices feel personal
- Colors reflect personality
- Guest experiences feel curated
That’s where weddings transform from events into experiences.
Wedding Trends We’re Loving Right Now
Here’s what we’re seeing shift in modern weddings:
Statement Florals
Bold color palettes. Elevated installations. Florals that make a statement and tell a story.
Smaller Guest Lists, Bigger Experiences
Couples are prioritizing connection and joy over perfection.
Unique Ceremony Twists
- Cocktail hour before the ceremony
- Ring warming ceremonies
- Rings hidden under a random guest seat
- Grandmothers as flower girls
- “Petal patrol” with older kids
- Dogs as ring bearers
Fashion Freedom
- Custom suits
- Micro dresses for the reception
- Sneakers under gowns
- Outfit changes
Shorter Formalities
- Shortened first dances
- Private cake cutting
- Fewer bouquet and garter tosses
Weddings are becoming less prescribed and more personal.
And honestly? We love that.
Don’t Forget the Honeymoon (Yes, Even That Takes Planning)
Honeymoons don’t always happen the day after the wedding anymore — but they still require logistics.
Travel agents are making a comeback because they:
- Handle booking complexity
- Offer insider tips
- Protect your investment
- Create unique experiences
It’s one more example of how trusted partners reduce stress.
The Emotional Side No One Talks About
Planning a wedding is like running at 100 miles per hour.
Then the day happens.
And suddenly… it’s over.
Many couples experience a bit of a drop afterward. You’ve spent months (sometimes years) planning. It becomes part of your identity. When it’s done, there’s a strange quiet.
That’s normal.
It doesn’t mean something’s wrong. It just means it mattered.
The Biggest Takeaway: Find Vendors You Trust
At the end of the day, wedding planning gets easier when you can say: “Here. I trust you. Help me bring this to life.”
As florists, planners, photographers, and creatives — our job isn’t just logistics. It’s storytelling. We help you translate emotion into experience.
We help you celebrate love in meaningful ways.
And that matters.
If You’re Newly Engaged…
Take a breath.
You don’t have to have everything figured out today.
Start with what makes you feel something — a venue, a song, a flower, a memory.
Build from there.
And remember: this is supposed to be joyful.
If you loved this episode, share it with a friend who just got engaged — and as always, keep blooming and creating one flower at a time!
