11 Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask About Planning a Wedding

Photo Credit: Our Day

Planning a wedding can feel like a daunting task. There are so many details to consider, from choosing the perfect venue and finding the right vendors to choosing your menu and finalizing the guest list. To help make planning more manageable, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about wedding planning, along with expert answers from Our Day. Our Day is an innovative service designed to simplify wedding planning by connecting couples with the right vendors and providing a suite of planning tools.

Whether you’re just starting to plan or are in the final stages, these insights can help guide you confidently through the process.

1. When should I start planning my wedding?

Our Day: The ideal time to start planning your wedding is 12 to 18 months before your desired date. This timeframe allows you to secure your dream venue, book the best vendors, and ensure your friends and family have plenty of notice. However, if you’re planning a shorter engagement, don’t worry! Many couples successfully plan weddings in six months or less. The key is to stay organized and prioritize the most essential aspects early on, such as the venue, photographer, and attire.

2. How much does a wedding cost?

Our Day: According to The Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2023 was just under $31,000, with an average of 134 guests. These numbers might come with sticker shock for some, but to help you set expectations and manage your wedding budget, we recommend you break down your budget into categories, such as venue, catering, attire, and photography, and allocate funds accordingly. Leave some room in your budget for unexpected expenses that might come up, like contingency plan deposits or budgeting for valet fees.

Our Day’s online platform can help you set and track your budget, providing transparency and helping you stay within your financial limits. You can easily see where your money is going and adjust as needed. We also offer customizable checklists and timelines, keeping you organized and on schedule.

Photo Credit: ​​Edward Eyer | Pexels

3. How do I choose the right wedding venue?

Our Day: Selecting the right venue is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make during the wedding planning process. Start by considering the size of your guest list, preferred wedding date, and overall wedding theme or style. Once you have a clear vision, begin your search early, as popular venues can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season.

We suggest visiting multiple venues to get a feel for the space, considering factors like location, capacity, and available amenities. Remember to ask about any restrictions or requirements the venue may have, such as catering policies or noise ordinances. From swanky downtown rooftops to quaint country gardens, there are many options. Pick a venue that fits your story as a couple.

4.  How can I make my wedding unique?

Our Day: Personalizing your wedding is about infusing your style and story into the celebration. Consider incorporating meaningful elements such as a custom ceremony script, personalized vows, or a signature cocktail that reflects your personality. We recommend working with your wedding planner to brainstorm creative ideas that align with your vision, whether a themed décor, an exceptional performance, or a surprise element for your guests. The goal is to create an experience that feels authentically “you” and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

5. What should I consider when choosing a wedding theme?

Our Day: Your wedding theme or color scheme sets the tone for your entire event, so choosing something that resonates with you as a couple is important. Start by considering your favorite colors, seasons, or hobbies for inspiration. We suggest couples consider the overall mood they want to create—a romantic, vintage, modern, or rustic vibe—and select colors and décor elements that reflect that vision. Remember, your theme should enhance the natural beauty of your venue and complement your attire, flowers, and other key details.

Photo Credit: Rocsana Nicoleta Gurza | Pexels

6. How do I choose the right wedding vendors?

Our Day: Selecting the right vendors is crucial to bringing your wedding vision to life. To simplify your search, you can use our all-in-one platform to find the perfect vendors. For couples, it’s free to sign up. (Vendors pay a nominal fee to register on our site.)  We use your wedding details and preferences to match you with vendors that suit your style, budget, and needs. This feature saves you hours of research by connecting you with reliable professionals. With a unique matchmaking approach that goes beyond the ordinary, Our Day fosters meaningful connections between vendors and couples, resulting in a wedding experience that is not just extraordinary but deeply personal.

7. What questions should I ask potential wedding vendors?

Our Day: When meeting with potential vendors, asking the right questions will help you find the right fit for your vision for your wedding. Start with basic questions about their availability on your wedding date and pricing structure. Follow up by asking about their experience with weddings similar to yours, how they handle unexpected issues, and what is included in their packages.

For example, if you’re meeting with a photographer, ask about their shooting style, the turnaround time for photos, and whether they offer engagement sessions. For a caterer, ask about menu customization, dietary accommodations, and how they manage service on the wedding day. When using Our Day, you can ask all of your questions through our platform to help you keep track of responses. Being thorough in your questioning will help you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises later on.

8. How do I manage wedding day logistics?

Our Day: From getting ready for the ceremony to the last dance, wedding day logistics require careful planning to ensure everything runs smoothly. Create a detailed timeline for the day, including key moments such as hair and makeup, the ceremony, reception, and vendor arrival times. We recommend that you share this timeline with your wedding party, vendors, and anyone involved in the day to ensure everyone is on the same page. Hiring a day-of coordinator can also be invaluable, as they can handle last-minute issues, allowing you to relax and enjoy your big day.

9. Planning a wedding is a lot of work. How can I avoid feeling burnt out?

Our Day: Wedding planning can be stressful, but there are ways to avoid burnout by minimizing anxiety and focusing on what truly matters. We encourage couples to take breaks from planning when needed and to delegate tasks to trusted family members, friends, or professionals. It’s also essential to maintain open communication with your partner and remember that the wedding is just one day, but your marriage is for a lifetime. Consider incorporating wellness practices such as yoga, meditation, or regular date nights into your routine to help you stay balanced and connected.

10. What are the benefits of hiring a wedding planner?

Our Day:  Hiring a wedding planner can take a lot of pressure off your shoulders, especially if you have a busy schedule or are planning a large or complex wedding. Wedding planners can also use Our Day to connect with potential clients and help you track your vendor details for your big day! A professional planner can help you navigate the entire planning process, from budgeting and vendor selection to day-of coordination. Planners bring expertise, industry connections, and creative ideas, ensuring your wedding is beautiful and seamlessly executed. Plus, having a planner lets you enjoy the planning journey and your wedding day without worrying about the details.

11. How do I choose the right catering options for my wedding?

Our Day: Food at your wedding sets the tone and is a big part of your guests’ experience, so you want to make it count. Start by considering your budget, guest count, and any dietary restrictions or preferences among your guests. Work closely with your caterer to design a menu that reflects your tastes and complements the overall theme of your wedding. It’s also a good idea to schedule a tasting session to ensure you’re happy with the flavors and presentation.

Additionally, consider the style of service that best fits your wedding—whether it’s a formal plated dinner, a buffet, or a more casual family-style meal. Be sure to ask your caterer about their experience with weddings, what’s included in their packages (such as linens, tableware, and service staff), and how they handle any special dietary needs or last-minute changes.

Wedding planning is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process, filled with decisions and details that can feel endless. Remember, the most important thing is to create a day that reflects your love and commitment to each other. With careful planning and the right support, your wedding day will be a beautiful celebration you’ll cherish for years.