So, you’ve said "Yes!" (to your partner, not to a million unsolicited Pinterest ideas). Now it’s time to dive into the wonderful, whimsical world of wedding planning. But where do you even begin? If you're anything like most brides and grooms, the whole process can feel like one big game of "Where do I even start?" Well, fear not—your trusty wedding planner (that’s me!) has your back. Let’s get you from "I’m engaged!" to "I do!" with this ultimate wedding planning checklist for 2025. And yes, we’re going to make it fun. Because who says planning the biggest day of your life can't be a little cheeky?

1. Set Your Date, But Don’t Freak Out About It

First things first, pick your wedding date! But, no pressure—seriously, if you’re not ready to pick a date, don’t let the stress get to you. Sure, venues may get booked fast (hello, 2025 wedding season!), but it’s about what works best for you and your fiancé. Pro tip: Keep in mind that Fridays and Sundays might be your new best friends for availability and saving some dough. #WeekdayWeddingsAreCoolToo

2. Create Your Dream Budget (and Stick to It... Mostly)

Ah, the budget. The love/hate relationship that no wedding planner blog can avoid. The truth is, you can have a beautiful wedding without mortgaging your future. Set your budget early, but be flexible. A little splurge here and there is fine—just don’t max out your credit cards unless you’re willing to take out a loan for a honeymoon in the Maldives. Keep track of every little detail and look at those spending categories like they’re your precious golden ticket to the perfect celebration.

3. Build Your Wedding Team (AKA The People Who Make Magic Happen)

This part? It’s all about the squad. Start by choosing the most important vendors—photographer, videographer, caterer, and wedding planner (nudge, nudge, wink, wink). As your wedding planner (did I mention I offer an amazing service?) I’ll help you find the perfect people to make your dream day come true. Just be sure to leave room for your wedding cake designer to work their sugar-filled magic, too.

4. Pick Your Wedding Style, and Own It

Time to put all those Pinterest boards to use! Whether you’re going for classic elegance, boho-chic, rustic glam, or something in between, now’s the time to choose the vibe that speaks to you. Do you want floral arches? A photo booth? A neon sign that says “Let’s Party!”? Go for it! The key here is to choose what you love—not what Aunt Gertrude insists on (sorry, Aunt Gertrude, but no, we’re not having that shade of orange).

5. Secure Your Venue (Before Someone Else Does)

This one’s easy to forget until you realize every venue you love is already booked for your big day. Secure your venue ASAP. Trust me—this will be the foundation of everything else. The venue will dictate your timeline, guest list, decor style, and, of course, how many chairs you need for everyone who RSVPs with “+1.”

6. Lock In Those Key Vendors (and Don’t Forget About the Flowers!)

You may have fallen in love with a venue, but now it’s time to ensure the other stars of the show are booked. Photographers? Check. Videographers? Check. Florist? Check! Seriously, floral arrangements set the mood for your wedding like nothing else. Don’t leave this one to chance—get that floral design in writing. (And for the love of all things pretty, don’t forget about the boutonnières.)

7. Start the Dress Hunt (Try Not to Panic)

Okay, this part can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Start shopping early (but not 5 years in advance, please). Focus on what feels great on you, not what looks good on the mannequin. And remember, it’s your day—if you want a black wedding dress or a hot pink tuxedo, go for it! Own your look, queen (or king).

8. Send Out Those Invitations and Track RSVPs Like a Boss

Invitations: check! Now it’s time to stalk your inbox like a true wedding pro. Create an online RSVP form so guests can’t accidentally lose their response card (we’ve all been there). Also, send out the invites with enough time for people to clear their schedules (we know, they’ll probably still ask you if it’s Saturday or Sunday).

9. Plan the Timeline (and Don’t Forget About the Snacks)

Ah, the timeline. The secret sauce that ensures your wedding day runs smoothly. Your timeline should cover everything from when hair and makeup start to the grand exit. And don’t forget about snack breaks for your bridal party (and you, of course). You’ll need fuel to keep that wedding glow going!

10. Finalize Your Look, Your Ceremony, and Your Dance Moves

It’s almost here! Now, it’s all about the fine details: your ceremony script, your vows, the seating arrangement, and most importantly, your wedding day dance moves. Practice them, own them, and remember: no one expects you to be a professional dancer—just have fun!

11. The Big Day: Ready, Set, Celebrate!

When the day arrives, trust in your planning. Take a deep breath, hold hands with your person, and let the day unfold as beautifully as you imagined. You’ve done the work, now it’s time to party (and yes, definitely enjoy that cake!).

Bonus Tip: Remember, a day-of coordinator can save you from stress on the wedding day. If full-service planning isn’t in your budget, that’s okay! At least hire someone to keep things running like a well-oiled machine. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

So there you have it! The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist to help you cruise through 2025 with minimal stress and maximum fun. Happy planning, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride—because, after all, it’s your big day!

P.S. Need more tips, tricks, and resources? Check out our The Ultimate Wedding Planning Binder or DIY brides, plus all our blog posts that will have you saying "This wedding is going to be epic!"