Your Ultimate Guide to Starting Wedding Planning: From Vision to Reality

Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments of your life, but once the celebrations settle, you’re left with the big question: Where do we even start with wedding planning?

Whether you're planning a luxury wedding in London, a countryside celebration in Surrey or Kent, or something completely unique to you, starting the planning process can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through each step to help you go from “just engaged” to “completely in control.”

At Koso Kreates, we’ve supported couples at every stage of the journey, whether they need guidance from day one or just a calm, experienced hand to coordinate everything on the day.

1. Soak It In, Then Start the Conversation

Before you dive into venues and Pinterest boards, take a moment to enjoy your engagement. Once you’re ready, sit down as a couple and talk about what you both want from the day.

Discuss:

• The type of celebration you envision (formal, relaxed, big, small)

• What matters most (e.g., food, music, photography, location)

• Any cultural, religious or family elements you’d like to include

• Your ideal vibe—romantic, modern, traditional, boho, etc.

This early conversation will shape the direction of everything that follows.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most important (and sometimes awkward) conversations, budget. Start by figuring out:

• Your total budget (including any contributions from family)

• Your top 3 non-negotiables (e.g., dress, venue, live band)

• What you’re willing to DIY or simplify

At Koso Kreates, we always recommend setting priorities early, so your budget works with your vision, not against it.

3. Create a Rough Guest List

You don’t need a final list yet, but having an approximate number helps when looking at venues and catering costs.

Ask yourselves:

• Do we want something intimate or a big celebration?

• Are we inviting extended family or keeping it close?

• Will it be adults-only or family-friendly?

Tip: The guest list affects everything—venue size, catering, stationery, even favours.

4. Choose Your Wedding Date (or a Few Options)

Popular venues book up fast, especially in peak months (May–September in the UK). Be flexible if you can, and consider:

• Season (spring florals vs. winter candlelight)

• Venue availability

• Major holidays or travel restrictions for guests

• Your own schedules and timelines

If you're planning a wedding in Surrey, Sussex, or Kent, many countryside venues offer better rates midweek or off-season. If you’re unsure, we at Koso Kreates can help you weigh the pros and cons of different dates and seasons.

5. Research & Book Your Venue

The venue often determines your date, so it’s usually the first big booking. Think about:

• Capacity

• Style (barn, manor house, marquee, city space)

• What’s included (furniture, catering, bar, coordination)

• Travel and accommodation for guests

We’ve worked in a wide range of venues across the South East, so if you're unsure what suits your vision—or need help managing a blank canvas space, Koso Kreates can support you with planning, styling, and coordination.

6. Build Your Supplier Team

Next, start researching and booking key suppliers:

• Photographer/videographer

• Catering (if not included)

• Florist

• Entertainment

• Cake maker

• Hair & makeup artist

• Celebrant or officiant

• On-the-day coordinator (if your venue doesn’t provide one)

Tip: Always check reviews, ask for portfolios, and get quotes in writing.

Already have suppliers in mind but don’t know how to tie them all together? That’s where our coordination services come in, ensuring every piece fits together perfectly on the day.

7. Create a Wedding Planning Timeline

Having a rough timeline keeps things manageable and helps avoid last-minute stress. You can use digital planning tools, printable checklists, or even a spreadsheet.

Break tasks down month by month, like:

• 12 months: venue & budget

• 9 months: dress shopping & photographer

• 6 months: invitations & cake

• 3 months: final guest count & seating plan

• 1 month: confirm suppliers, timeline & logistics

Need help creating a timeline? We can help build a realistic, flexible one tailored to your wedding style and pace.

8. Bring Your Vision to Life

Once the core bookings are made, you can dive into the creative side, your styling, décor, theme, and personal touches.

Start thinking about:

• Colour palette

• Ceremony style

• Table settings

• Signage & stationery

• Favours & finishing touches

While some couples love the styling process, others find it overwhelming. Koso Kreates can help you refine your vision and pull everything together cohesively.

9. Don’t Forget the Practical Bits

Planning a wedding isn’t just pretty details. Don’t forget:

• Wedding insurance

• Contracts with all suppliers

• A wet-weather backup plan (especially for outdoor weddings)

• Marriage licence or legal paperwork

• A plan for set-up and pack-down

We’ve supported couples with all of these and more. You don’t need to know everything, you just need someone who does.

10. Ask for Help (You Don’t Have to Do It All Alone)

Wedding planning is a big job. Don’t be afraid to ask friends, family, or professionals for help, especially in the final weeks. Many couples opt for on-the-day coordination to take the pressure off.

Even if you’ve planned everything yourself, having someone run the show on the day means you can actually enjoy it.

At Koso Kreates, our calm and organised approach means you can hand over the final details with confidence, knowing everything is taken care of.

Final Thoughts

Starting your wedding planning journey can feel daunting, but taking it step by step makes it completely manageable and even enjoyable. Focus on what matters most to you as a couple, and trust that the rest will fall into place.

From initial vision to final details, planning a wedding is about creating a day that reflects who you are—and one you’ll remember for a lifetime.

If you’re just starting out, or feeling a little overwhelmed, Koso Kreates is here to support you. Whether you need a bit of guidance, help styling your day, or someone to coordinate everything behind the scenes, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.