As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many couples find themselves not only celebrating a new year but also stepping into a pivotal phase of their wedding planning journey. Whether you're newly engaged or in the midst of finalizing details, the New Year is the perfect time to set resolutions that will help you plan and enjoy your wedding with ease and joy. These 8 expert tips are designed to inspire and guide you as you navigate the exciting road ahead.
1. Choose Vendors You Trust and Enjoy
Starting the New Year with a strong vendor team is essential. Building a relationship with your vendors will help ease the pressure during the planning process and ensure everyone is aligned with your vision. As David Porto from Blue Plate Catering advises, "Because planning a wedding often takes months or more than a year, hire vendors that you really enjoy and your mom would want to take a picture with at the reception. Ask all the questions that you can and really get to know who your vendors are as people." Take the time to get to know your team - you'll work with them closely throughout your wedding journey, and their understanding of your personality and preferences will lead to a more personalized experience.
2. Make Fun a Priority
While wedding planning can sometimes feel overwhelming, Brit Grosenick from Happy Joy Candy Co. reminds couples to infuse joy into the process. "Resolve to HAVE FUN with the planning!! It is your big day, and the whole journey should be an enjoyable experience with your partner. Don't neglect dating through the wedding planning process to keep the spark alive, the stress levels low, and create memories along the way!" Plan regular “date nights” that are free from wedding talk, allowing you and your partner to enjoy each other’s company and refresh your relationship. This is your moment to bond and make lasting memories together - don’t let the stress overshadow the fun!
3. Simplify with One-Stop Shop Solutions
If the idea of juggling multiple vendors and venues feels daunting, consider simplifying with a venue that offers comprehensive services. Jaclyn Thompson from Best Western Premier Park Hotel suggests, "As the New Year approaches, ensure your planning process is simplified and effortless with high-end resolutions. We make wedding planning easy with our one-stop-shop hotel. With an onsite coordinator, guest rooms, an essentials package included in your wedding package, valet for everyone, and onsite catering, we truly have all the missing pieces one desires to make your planning process graceful and with ease throughout the year."
4. Focus on How You Want to Feel
Cass Stone of C.Mae Photography encourages couples to consider the emotional atmosphere they want to create on their big day. "Take time to talk about how you want your wedding day to FEEL," she suggests. "As a wedding photography company that specializes in moment-based photography and effortless portraits, we always want couples to feel and look their best while being in the moment! Making sure you have the right vendors by your side who understand your vision and needs is important. We're here to help clients feel their best in front of the camera and to be present during their wedding day." Wedding photography is about more than just poses; it’s about capturing real, joyful moments. As you plan your wedding, focus not only on the aesthetic details but also on how you want to feel — relaxed, joyful, and present. Choosing vendors who align with that vision will help bring those emotions to life.
5. Schedule Wedding-Free Time Together
Wedding planning can quickly consume your life, but Heather Farr from Heather Farr Events emphasizes the importance of staying grounded as a couple. "When planning a wedding, it's easy to get caught up in the to-do list, endless meetings and emails, and other people's ideas. Make it your resolution to prioritize your relationship and to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Schedule wedding talk-free date nights where the focus is just on being together and enjoying this special time in your life. It will help you stay grounded and connected with the busy schedule and endless to-do list increases stress levels." Wedding-free time is essential for nurturing your relationship amidst the busy schedule. Prioritize moments to connect and enjoy each other’s company, which will make your wedding day even more meaningful when it arrives.
6. Start with Clear Goals and Trust Your Vendors
Setting clear goals is key to staying focused and managing the wedding planning process. Jennifer Janssen from Jennifer Janssen Bridal Artistry advises, "Start the New Year with clear wedding goals: focus on what feels most meaningful, whether it’s staying organized, reducing stress, or prioritizing time together. Remember, this journey is about joy - trust your vendors, share the load, and take time to celebrate each step toward your dream day." Defining what truly matters to you - whether it’s the experience, organization, or spending quality time together - will help you stay aligned throughout the process. Trust your vendors to handle the details and take moments to celebrate the milestones as you get closer to your big day.
7. Be Flexible
Wedding planning can be unpredictable, and it’s important to approach it with flexibility and a positive mindset. Mary Gehr from Wisconsin Wedding Officiants advises, "Understand that not everything may go according to plan. Being flexible and maintaining a positive outlook will help you navigate any challenges that arise." By staying adaptable and focusing on solutions rather than setbacks, you’ll reduce stress and keep the joy alive throughout the planning process. Flexibility allows you to embrace the unexpected - whether it’s a last-minute venue change, a vendor hiccup, or a weather surprise - and turn it into an opportunity to create a more memorable, unique experience. Remember, the wedding is about celebrating your love, not achieving perfection. The more you can roll with the punches, the more you'll enjoy the journey and savor every moment leading up to your big day.
8. Be Present on Your Wedding Day!
The wedding day goes by in the blink of an eye, so it's essential to savor every moment. "Remember to take it all in. The day truly does fly by and you deserve to enjoy every minute of it!" says Megan Bridenhagen from Northern Haus. To fully experience the joy of your celebration, allow your coordinator or planner to handle the details and stress you don’t need to worry about. "This is a celebration of your love, so remember to have fun and don't stress about anything!" Embrace the excitement of the day, focus on the love you're celebrating, and let everything else fall into place. The memories you create on this special day will last a lifetime, so make sure to be fully present and enjoy every precious moment.
As you set your intentions for 2025, let these resolutions guide you in your wedding planning journey. Here’s to a new year filled with love, joy, and meaningful moments!
Courtesy of Jennifer Janssen Bridal Artistry
Main Photo by C.Mae Photography
