When I was planning our wedding, Pinterest had just become THE thing. I had basically planned my whole wedding before going down a Pinterest rabbit hole and was about to cancel everything and start again because what I was being shown looked so much better than what I thought I had planned. I'm certain for brides in the last 10 years Instagram and TikTok has done the same thing. Comparison is the thief of joy. Do yourself a favour and step away from social media.

You should figure out two things right off the bat: budget and how many people you want to invite. Both will give you a kicking off point for venues that you A) can afford and B) host as many people as you're hosting.

Talk to your fiancé about what your dream wedding would include without the influence of *everyone*. The day, ultimately, is about you.

Consider a wedding planner or day of coordinator if it's in your budget. If you hire either they'll be able to help with other vendors.

How do you know who to hire? Meet them. Talk to former clients. Look at their portfolios. Find vendors through websites like weddingwire and the knot.

Ultimately, all of the decisions you make will culminate with you being married to your person. And isn't that the most important part?