Congratulations on your engagement! This is an incredibly exciting time, filled with love, joy, and anticipation for the future. Whether you’re considering a Las Vegas wedding or working with a Las Vegas wedding planner to bring your vision to life, it’s important to take things step by step. Here’s how to start this new chapter with clarity and ease.

 

Before diving into logistics, take time to revel in this beautiful milestone. Share a quiet moment with your partner to savor the excitement, or gather close friends and family for an intimate celebration. When it’s time to share the news, consider how you want to announce it—calling loved ones, posting on social media, or even organizing a small engagement party. This is also the perfect opportunity to capture engagement photos. Whether professional or casual, these photos will mark the start of your wedding journey and are a fun way to announce your new status. 

With the initial excitement settled, it’s time to start dreaming about your big day. Sit down with your partner and discuss what your ideal wedding looks like. Do you envision a grand celebration, an intimate ceremony, or maybe even a destination wedding? Talk about the tone you’d like to set—formal or casual, modern or traditional—and outline a general timeline. Will you plan a wedding in the next 6–12 months or take a bit longer to prepare? Lastly, identify the elements most important to you, such as a stunning venue, delicious food, or a memorable guest experience. This will help guide your planning priorities.

Your budget is the foundation for all your wedding decisions, so start with an honest conversation about finances. Determine how much you and your partner can contribute and whether family members are able to help. Once you have a total figure, break it down into key categories: venue, catering, attire, photography, florals, and other essentials. A helpful tip is to set aside a portion of your budget for unexpected costs, like gratuities or last-minute decor additions.

Your guest list plays a huge role in shaping your wedding, from the size of the venue to the catering budget. Start by creating separate lists with your partner, jotting down everyone you’d like to invite. From there, categorize guests into “must-haves,” like immediate family and close friends, and “nice-to-haves,” like extended family and colleagues. Consider any boundaries, such as whether you’ll include plus-ones or invite children, as these decisions can significantly impact the final number. Keep in mind that each additional guest affects your budget and the overall logistics of your day.

The date and venue set the stage for your wedding, so these decisions are essential early on. Start by thinking about the time of year you’d like to get married. Consider meaningful dates, seasonal weather, and any scheduling factors for key guests. Next, narrow down the type of venue that aligns with your vision—be it a grand ballroom, a serene outdoor garden, or a unique space like a museum or winery. Schedule tours of your top choices and ask about included amenities, policies, and availability. Since popular venues can book out 12–18 months in advance, having a few flexible date options can help you secure your dream location.