Then get the big three: budget, guest count, and general vibe. Pick a season and a city, not a napkin color. Start a shortlist of vendors you actually like, not just the ones your cousin DMed. We’ll hand you the first emails and a polite “hold the date” note so you look organized from day one.

Breathe in, you're engaged (AHHHH)!

Lock the venue and the core team (photo, music, florals, catering), then set a simple design direction—three textures, two metals, one palette. Begin seating logic now so it’s painless later. Use our tablescape and lighting guides to choose rentals that look intentional, not rented.

Decisions make momentum

Confirm headcount, finalize the run-of-show, and send clean instructions to every vendor. Square away tips, permits, and rain-plan pivots so nothing surprises you at load-in. We’ll give you the exact emails and numbers to make it painless.

Fewer tabs, tighter timelines

Distribute the timeline, pack the kit, and confirm transport windows and contacts. Hand your photographer the family list; book a quick walkthrough if anyone’s fuzzy on cues. Then follow the checklist like gospel and enjoy the ride.

Calm is the name of The Game