Getting married next year? Here's how to get started!

Congratulations, you're engaged!
You and your fiance (isn't it cool just to say it?) are probably chomping at the bit to start planning your wedding, and it may be hard to figure out where to start! No worries -- The Knot team is here to help you plan our way, every step of the way. Sure, people will try to convince you it's all about guest lists and budgets -- and that's definitely a big part of it. But not just yet…

Step 1: Check out wedding gowns.
Do your homework. Flip through bridal magazines and visit Brides.com's Wedding Dresses Gallery to find styles and designers you love.

Step 2: Get inspired.
Not yet ready for reality? Stick with the fun stuff -- think about colors you like, the seasons that make sense for your celebration, and any must-haves you'll want to incorporate. Then decide on your location, and book it! Have a season and a few potential dates in mind but be flexible, since the most desirable locations book up early.

Step 3: Get started.
Next, get down to the nitty-gritty.

  • Wedding Checklist
    Create a personalized month-by-month to-do list by entering your wedding date (enter an estimated date if you don't know exactly when). Meeting with your florist after work next month? Add it to your checklist so you don't forget. Appointments are going to start to pile up!
  • Wedding Budgeter
    Come up with your number and plug it in. Based on industry-wide averages, we'll give you a breakdown of what percentage of your budget you can expect to spend where. Track your payments, add in your own items, and see how much money you have left.

Step 4: Book it!
Congrats! Now you have a real, live wedding date! Go back and update your approximate wedding date in your profile if you haven't already. Here's where the fun really begins: With your fabulously chic vision in mind, bring your wedding to life. Follow the advice in these getting started links to choose the right vendor and to get the right contract:

Step 5: Guests and Etiquette
Sure, this day is all about the two of you, but it's also all about the people who'll come to celebrate with you.

  • Guest List Manager
    Use a Guest List Manager to keep track of your list (import addresses right from your address book), to record gifts you get, and note when you've sent thank-you notes.
  • Personal Wedding Web Page
    Build a one-stop wedding web page to keep guests up-to-date on all the details of your wedding.

 

Laury's Bakery and Cake

Fensalden Inn