Best Tips for the Newly Engaged: Pre-Planning Your Dream Wedding
While the idea of planning your wedding may feel overwhelming, starting with the right approach can set you up for success. Here are our top pre-planning tips to help you organize your dream wedding, with a special focus on finding the perfect wedding planner in Toronto to guide the process.
1. Celebrate First
Before diving into wedding plans, take a moment to enjoy this special time with your partner. Announce your engagement, host a celebration with loved ones, and let the excitement sink in!
Pro Tip: Consider an engagement photo session—it’s the perfect way to capture this milestone while also giving you content for your wedding website or save-the-dates.
2. Define Your Vision
Start by outlining your wedding day vision. Do you picture a modern downtown Toronto wedding or a romantic garden ceremony? Discuss must-haves with your partner, from your dream venue to your ideal guest experience. This will help you align on your priorities and set the tone for your planning process.
3. Book a Wedding Planner in Toronto or Wedding and Event Designer in Toronto
A professional wedding planner can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes. Toronto wedding planners are highly sought after, so book one early to secure your date and ensure access to their expertise. If you’d require less hands-on support, consider a wedding designer to help put together your vision and connect you with key vendors.
Why You Need One: A planner can help with venue scouting, budget management, and sourcing trusted vendors in the Toronto area. They’ll also create a seamless timeline and troubleshoot issues so you can enjoy your engagement.
Pro Tip: Look for planners who specialize in your desired style, whether it’s luxury, boho, or modern romantic weddings.
4. Secure Key Vendors Early
Toronto’s best wedding vendors, including photographers, florists, and caterers, often book up over a year in advance. Once you have a date and venue, prioritize reaching out to the vendors you love.
Pro Tip: If your dream vendor isn’t available for your date, ask them for referrals to other professionals with a similar style.
5. Draft a Guest List and Set a Budget
Your guest list and budget will guide many of your decisions. Draft a rough list of invitees to determine your venue size needs, and establish a clear budget early to avoid unexpected surprises.
Pro Tip: Be mindful of hidden costs like taxes, service charges, and gratuities, which can add up quickly.
6. Choose the Perfect Venue
Toronto is home to stunning wedding venues, from iconic landmarks like Casa Loma to sleek urban spaces like The Globe and Mail Centre. Consider your wedding style, guest count, and must-haves when selecting a venue.
Pro Tip: Work with your planner to scout options that fit your vision and budget.
7. Create a Pre-Planning Timeline
Breaking your planning into manageable steps makes the process less overwhelming. Use this general pre-planning timeline as a guide:
12-18 months out: Secure a wedding planner, venue, and key vendors.
9-12 months out: Finalize your guest list, choose your wedding theme, and send save-the-dates.
6-9 months out: Book decor, floral design, and catering.
8. Personalize Your Wedding
Infuse your personality into your wedding by adding unique touches that reflect your love story. From custom signage to meaningful decor, these elements make your celebration truly special.
9. Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
Planning can come with unexpected challenges, but staying flexible will help you manage them with ease. Trust your planner and vendors to guide you while keeping your ultimate vision in focus.
Why Work with Dereves?
At Dereves, we specialize in designing luxury weddings with cohesive themes that reflect your love story. Based in Toronto, our team of experienced wedding planners and designers works with you every step of the way to ensure your dream wedding comes to life seamlessly.
From securing the city’s top venues to crafting breathtaking floral installations, we’re here to make every detail unforgettable. Contact us at www.derevesstudio.com to schedule a consultation today and start your planning journey with confidence.