Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many details to consider. If you’re tying the knot in 2025, here are 9 essential tips to help you stay on track and create the day of your dreams:

1. Book Early

With weddings booming post-pandemic, popular venues, photographers and us musicians are booking up quickly. Start securing your dream suppliers as early as possible, especially if your date falls during peak wedding season.

January is an especially busy time for enquiries as couples dive into planning their upcoming weddings. I’m receiving so many messages from excited couples eager to secure their dates for 2025 and beyond. This time of year also brings a host of wedding fairs and shows across the country, making it a prime opportunity to meet suppliers, explore ideas and get inspired for your big day. With so much happening, it’s the perfect moment to make decisions and lock in your key vendors.

2. Stick To Your Budget

It seems simple and the most obvious tip, but sticking to your budget gets trickier the closer to the wedding you get. Those little extras, like upgraded floral arrangements, last minute decorations or an additional hour of photography can quickly add up. To avoid overspending, plan accordingly and keep a detailed spreadsheet of all costs, from the big ticket items like your venue and catering to smaller details like favours and stationery. I am a lover for a spreadsheet so find that something easy on Google Sheets or Excel can really help.

Break your budget into categories and allocate a specific percentage to each, such as 40% for the venue and catering, 10% for entertainment and so on. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of where your money is going and can adjust if something exceeds expectations.

3. Enlist Help

Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking, and while it’s tempting to try to do everything yourself, enlisting help can make the process far more enjoyable and stress free. Start by assigning specific tasks to trusted friends and family members, whether it’s helping with DIY decorations, organising RSVPs or managing the seating plan. Having a team of helpers can take a lot of pressure off your shoulders and let you focus on the bigger picture.

For couples looking to truly take the stress out of planning, hiring a wedding planner can be a game changer. Wedding planners bring experience, creativity and insider knowledge to the table, helping you stay organised and navigate the hundreds of decisions you’ll need to make. A couple of recommendations from me would be the incredible Stacey Page Weddings (South) and Vivienne May Weddings (East of England).

4. Make a playlist of ‘Must Have Songs’ for your musicians

Music is one of the most memorable parts of a wedding, creating the soundtrack to your special day and setting the tone for every moment. From the ceremony to the after-party, the right music can elevate the atmosphere and make each stage of your celebration feel uniquely yours. Rather than sticking to a generic playlist, choose songs that hold meaning for you as a couple whether it’s the song that played on your first date, a track that reminds you of an unforgettable trip or a family favourite that gets everyone dancing. Check out some of my song suggestions at the bottom of my homepage.

5. Make a playlist of ‘Do Not Play’ songs

While creating the perfect playlist for your wedding is all about including the songs you love, it’s just as important to think about what you don’t want to hear on your big day. A ‘do not play’ list helps you avoid those tracks that don’t match the vibe you’re going for, bring back less-than-fond memories, or simply make you cringe.

Start by having an honest conversation with your partner about the songs or genres you’d rather steer clear of. Maybe there’s a track that’s overplayed, a genre that doesn’t fit your style or lyrics that feel a little too inappropriate for the occasion. Share your preferences with myself or the DJ booked so we know exactly what to avoid.

6. Plan for all weather

2025 is predicted to bring unpredictable weather (hello, British summertime!). Make sure your plans account for rain, wind, or heat by arranging covered outdoor spaces, fans, or heaters to keep everyone comfortable.

Start by considering covered outdoor spaces. If you’re holding an outdoor ceremony or reception, arrange for a marquee, pavilion or a stylish gazebo that can protect guests from any unexpected showers or harsh sunlight.

For summer weddings, heat can be just as much of a concern as rain. If your event is during a hot spell, ensure there is enough shade to prevent guests from feeling uncomfortable. Consider using parasols, or even hire large tents with sidewalls to block out the sun. For particularly warm days, offering cooling stations with fans or misting systems can help guests stay cool. Remember to also have plenty of water available and consider providing cooling accessories like handheld fans or sunglasses for guests to use throughout the day.

On the other hand, for chillier months or cooler evenings, portable heaters, fire pits or blankets are a lovely touch to keep guests warm and cosy. If your wedding takes place in an area that could get cold in the evenings quickly, heaters placed near seating areas can make all the difference.

Jasmine & Jay’s Wedding – Laura Dean Photography

7. Allocate Time for Moments Alone

Your wedding day will fly by, so schedule a few minutes alone with your partner to soak in the moment.

These moments don’t need to be long, but a few minutes to yourselves can help ground you in the reality of your marriage amidst the celebration. Consider scheduling a brief pause after your ceremony, before the reception begins or even after dinner to share a private toast. This allows you both to breathe, reflect on the vows you just made and appreciate the gravity of the moment. Whether it’s a peaceful walk through the venue’s gardens, a quiet corner in the marquee, or even a brief moment on your own with a glass of champagne, these intervals provide an opportunity to reflect, away from the crowd.

8. Invest in Quality Photography and Videography

Your wedding is one of the most photographed days of your life.

While smartphones and social media allow guests to capture their own photos, there’s no substitute for the expertise and artistry of professional photographers and videographers. Investing in experienced professionals ensures that every precious moment is documented beautifully, allowing you to relive the day for years to come.

In addition to photographers and videographers, many couples are also choosing to work with content creators to document your special day in a unique way. These creators often bring a modern, creative flair to your wedding media, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses, Instagram-worthy moments. Some content creators also specialise in creating stylish wedding recaps or highlight videos for social media platforms, so your wedding story can be shared with a wider audience in a format that resonates with today’s digital world. Some recommendations of mine are Your Content Captured (East Of England) and Your Endless Love Story.

9. Enjoy The Process

Remember, during all of this it’s your wedding year!

Take time to connect with your partner over these fun decisions, whether you’re watching potential wedding bands with a glass of fizz or scrolling through Pinterest ideas together on the sofa.

Relax, be present, and enjoy every second!

Ready to plan the ultimate celebration? Let’s chat about the perfect soundtrack for your big day!

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