26/05/2026
Recently, I’ve come across situations where brides changed their team of suppliers during the wedding planning process after discovering more options that better suited their budget and ideal wedding vision. There’s truly so much to learn from experiences like this, especially for soon-to-be brides and newly engaged couples.
As a former DIY bride myself and now a wedding supplier, here are 8 tips that personally worked for me. Sharing these in hopes that they may guide you as you plan one of the most meaningful days of your life.
1. List your negotiables and non-negotiables.
Once you get engaged, start talking and listing down your must-haves and your optional wants. For example, a church wedding may be non-negotiable, while a grazing table or photobooth may simply be optional additions.
2. Define your budget early.
Set a realistic wedding budget and identify which areas matter most to you as a couple. A clear budget helps avoid overspending, minimizes stress, and guides your decisions wisely from the beginning.
3. Decide what kind of planning setup works for you.
Whether you want a full DIY wedding, an overall wedding planner and coordinator, or only an on-the-day coordinator, decide early. Also remember: aside from coordination fees, some coordinators already have identified suppliers they work closely with. Do your own research before booking to make sure the suppliers align with your vision, budget, and preferences.
4. Research previous experiences and reviews.
From your dream church and venue to your chosen suppliers, take time to read reviews, ask previous clients, and learn from real wedding experiences. This helps set proper expectations.
5. Book your church and reception venue first.
These are usually the foundations of your wedding date and overall planning. Once secured, the rest of the planning becomes more manageable.
6. Be open to suggestions, but remember your priorities.
Family and friends will always have opinions and recommendations. Listen respectfully, but stay grounded on your negotiables and non-negotiables as a couple.
7. Don’t book suppliers until you are truly sure.
A supplier’s time is valuable, and once you reserve a slot, it means they may decline other potential clients for your date. If changes happen, communicate properly and respectfully to avoid stress, misunderstandings, and unnecessary hurt on both sides.
8. Expect unexpected moments.
Rain may pour, some friends may not make it, food may not turn out exactly as planned, or little things may go wrong. But on that day, focus on the sacrament and the meaning behind your marriage. Let go of what you cannot control and surrender everything to God.
Above all, remember that your wedding day is just one day, but the marriage and sacrament are for a lifetime.
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” — Mark 10:9 🤍
