Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide for Clueless Brides

After that magical proposal—whether it was a complete surprise or a sweet, private moment—reality soon sets in: it's time to plan a wedding! For many brides, the excitement is quickly joined by a swirl of questions:
Where do I even start? What should I book first? How do I keep everything on budget?

I remember standing in your shoes: thrilled, overwhelmed, and honestly, a bit clueless about where to begin. That's why I created this in-depth guide—because every bride deserves to enjoy the planning process, not just survive it. My goal is to help you make smart choices with your money and energy, so your wedding is both beautiful and meaningful.

The First Steps: Where to Begin

Before diving into bookings and budgets, take a deep breath. Planning a wedding is a big project, but you don't have to do everything at once. Here's a simple checklist to help you set a strong foundation:

Wedding Planning Kickoff Checklist

• Dream Together: Spend an evening with your fiancé discussing your vision. Do you want an intimate ceremony, a grand celebration, or something in between? What are your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves”?
• Estimate Your Budget: Sit down with both families (if they'll contribute) and discuss finances. What's your realistic total budget?
• Draft a Guest List: It doesn't have to be final, but a rough number will help guide every decision from the venue to the catering.
• Pick a Date (or a Range): Think about your preferred season, and consider work schedules, family availability, and any special dates.
• Research Inspiration: Create a folder of wedding ideas—save photos, color schemes, and styles you both love. This helps with making decisions later.
• Set Priorities: Decide together where you want to invest (splurge) and where you're comfortable saving. Every couple's priorities are different.

Save or Splurge: Setting Your Priorities

Weddings can quickly become overwhelming and expensive if you try to make every detail perfect. One thing I learned early is that it's perfectly okay to save on some things and splurge on others. What matters is making those decisions consciously.

Think of your wedding as a combination of minor and major suppliers and expenses. For example:

Minor Expenses

Items you can often save on (or where a small splurge makes a big difference):

• Shoes
• Invitations
• Music
• Snacks
• Souvenirs
• Bridal Car
• Cake
• Gifts for each other and the entourage
• Crew Meals

Major Expenses

Key elements that have the biggest impact (and are often worth splurging on):

• Wedding gown
• Rings
• Catering
• Venue
• Photographers & Videographers
• Hair and makeup
• Venue styling
• Honeymoon
• Coordination/planning

Before reading further, grab a notebook and make a list of your top 3 priorities as a couple. This will guide all your spending decisions—and help you avoid regret later.

The Big Picture: Your Wedding Planning Timeline

To help keep everything on track, here's a simple timeline of what most couples do (and when):

12+ Months Before:

• Set your budget, guest list, and date
• Book your ceremony and reception venues

8–12 Months Before:

• Book your key suppliers (caterer, photo/video, coordinator)
• Shop for your wedding attire

6–8 Months Before:

• Finalize your entourage and send out “Will you be?” asks
• Research hair and makeup, cake, flowers, and music

3–6 Months Before:

• Send invitations (or e-invites)
• Finalize menu, decor, and timeline details

1–2 Months Before:

• Confirm all suppliers and bookings
• Do dress fittings, trial hair/makeup, and final guest count

2 Weeks Before:

• Reconfirm with everyone
• Prepare emergency kits and payments

Wedding Day:

• Relax, breathe, and enjoy—you've earned it!

Remember: Every wedding is unique. Adjust the timeline and priorities to fit your relationship and situation. The most important thing is to focus on what matters to you as a couple.

Save or Splurge: Minor Wedding Suppliers

When planning your wedding, it's important to know where you can save and where a little splurge goes a long way. Here's a thoughtful breakdown of common “minor” wedding expenses—plus tips and checklists to guide your decisions.

Wedding Shoes — Save

Unless shoes are your personal obsession, there's no need to splurge here. I only spent 1,000 pesos on mine.

• Comfort matters most: Your shoes will be hidden under your gown, and you'll be on your feet all day.
• No one really notices: Most photos focus on your face, dress, and bouquet.

Checklist:

• Try shoes on with your wedding dress
• Break them in before the big day
• Pack a pair of flats for the reception

Wedding Invitation — Save

In hindsight, I spent too much on printed invitations—most ended up in the trash, except for a few sentimental keepsakes.

• Modern trend: Send e-invites to most guests; print only for close family and principal sponsors.
• Eco-friendly and cost-effective: Digital invitations are both practical and kind to the environment.

Checklist:

• Decide who needs a printed invite
• Create and test your digital invitation (check for typos!)
• Send invites early enough for RSVP responses

Wedding Singers — Save

Live musicians can be beautiful, but the cost can be shocking. We chose to play our special song through Spotify instead, saving thousands.

• DIY your music: Use a playlist or ask musically gifted friends to perform as a gift.
• Emotional impact: The right song at the right moment matters more than how it's played.

Checklist:

• Test the sound system at your venue
• Prepare backup music on a phone or USB stick
• Appoint someone to manage the playlist

Snacks — Save (or small splurge if you like)

Simple snacks like puto and kutsinta kept our guests happy during the photo session for just 2,500 pesos.

• Trendy upgrades: If you want, add a grazing table or coffee bar for a small extra wow factor.
• Guest comfort: A little snack goes a long way in making guests feel cared for.

Checklist:

• Choose snacks that won't spoil easily
• Offer a mix of sweet and savory options
• Assign someone to handle setup and refills

Souvenirs — Save

Most wedding souvenirs don't last—especially if they have your name or face on them.

• Best idea: If you want souvenirs, give something edible or useful, like cookies, local treats, or plant seeds.
• Skip if you want: Most guests won't miss them.

Checklist:

• Avoid putting your photo on gifts
• Add a simple thank-you note
• Make sure gifts are easy for guests to carry home

Bridal Car — Save

We used my husband's own car and decorated it simply. The bridal car will be seen for about 15–20 minutes and in only a handful of photos.

• Don't overthink it: Clean, decorate, and use a car you already have.
• Save for what matters: Put the extra money toward food, photos, or your honeymoon.

Checklist:

• Clean and decorate the car a day before
• Arrange a reliable driver
• Have a backup plan in case of car trouble

Wedding Cake — Splurge (if it matters to you)

A beautiful wedding cake can be a highlight—but if it's not a priority, consider budget-friendly options.

• Quality cakes: Expect to spend at least 5,000 pesos for a multi-tiered cake.
• Alternatives: Dessert bars, cupcakes, or doughnut towers can be fun and budget-friendly.

Checklist:

• Choose flavors you love
• Confirm delivery and setup time with your baker
• Assign someone to save you a slice if you're busy during the reception

Gifts for Each Other — Save

Gifts between couples can be sweet but aren't essential. We kept it simple and meaningful.

• Agree on your approach: If you want to exchange gifts, set a modest budget.
• Personal touches: A heartfelt letter or favorite perfume can mean more than an expensive gadget.

Checklist:

• Discuss gift expectations in advance
• Keep gifts personal and thoughtful
• Plan a private moment for your exchange

“Will You Be” Gifts — Save

These are small gifts for your entourage when you invite them to join your wedding.

• Not required: A sincere, heartfelt invitation is enough for close friends and family.
• Simple is best: If you want to give something, keep it affordable and personal.

Checklist:

• Write a short, meaningful note with your ask
• Choose a small token (favorite snack, mini plant, etc.)
• Don't stress—most loved ones will say yes, gift or not

Crew Meal — Splurge

Feed your suppliers well! A happy, energized team does their best work.

• Important investment: Crew meals keep your photographers, coordinators, and other suppliers going through a long day.
• Don't cut corners: Good food is part of taking care of the people who make your day possible.

Checklist:

• Coordinate with your caterer for crew meals
• Provide snacks and water throughout the day
• Check for any dietary restrictions among your crew

Save or Splurge: Major Wedding Suppliers

Major suppliers form the backbone of your wedding experience. Here's how to decide where to invest, where to save, and how to make the most of every peso.

Wedding Gown — Save

You don't have to spend a fortune to look stunning. My own gown cost just 10,000 pesos and included all the essentials.

• Affordable options abound: Check local bridal shops, markets, or consider rental or pre-loved dresses.
• Fit and comfort first: Choose a style that flatters you and lets you move, eat, and dance.

Checklist:

• Shop early to avoid last-minute stress
• Try on various styles and silhouettes
• Schedule a fitting close to your wedding date
• Bring your shoes and undergarments to fittings

Rings — Save

Choose rings that are practical for everyday wear and suit your lifestyle.

• Everyday comfort: If you commute or use public transport, a modest ring is safer and more comfortable.
• Focus on meaning: It's the symbolism, not the price, that counts.

Checklist:

• Visit several jewelers to compare prices and designs
• Choose a timeless, durable style
• Double-check ring sizes for a perfect fit

Catering — Splurge

Food is one of the most memorable parts of any wedding—for you and your guests.

• Quality and quantity matter: Choose caterers with great reviews, and ensure there's enough food for everyone.
• Menu you love: Opt for dishes you personally enjoy.

Checklist:

• Arrange a menu tasting before finalizing
• Ask about menu flexibility for special diets
• Plan for extra servings, just in case

Reception Venue — Splurge

The venue sets the stage for your celebration and should comfortably fit your guest list.

• Visit in person: Photos can be misleading—always see the venue yourself.
• Consider logistics: Accessibility, parking, and comfort are key.

Checklist:

• Check availability for your preferred date(s)
• Review what's included (tables, chairs, basic styling)
• Ask about weather contingencies and parking

Photographer and Videographer — Splurge

Your photos and videos are lasting keepsakes—don't skimp here.

• Choose experience and style: Review portfolios and meet your photographer in person.
• Ask for recommendations: Word-of-mouth is valuable.

Checklist:

• Book early (good suppliers get booked fast)
• Share your shot list and must-have moments
• Clarify turnaround time for edited photos/videos

Hair and Makeup Artist (HMUA) — Save

Talented, affordable artists are out there—find someone whose work fits your taste.

• Book a trial session: Make sure you're comfortable with the look and products.
• Local talent: There's no need to import a high-end artist if you love the work of someone nearby.

Checklist:

• Book a hair and makeup trial well ahead of time
• Bring inspiration photos that match your features
• Ask about touch-up services for the day

Venue Stylist — Save

Many venues or caterers provide basic styling. If you're not set on a particular motif, take advantage!

• DIY details: Add a few personal touches with simple décor.
• Focus your budget: Spend on one or two statement areas (e.g., your table, ceremony arch).

Checklist:

• Confirm what styling is included in your venue/catering package
• Consider easy DIY upgrades (flowers, lights)
• Assign someone to handle setup on the day

Honeymoon — Splurge

Your honeymoon is your first adventure as a married couple—make it special!

• Plan together: Choose a destination that excites both of you.
• Experiences over things: Invest in memories, not just accommodations.

Checklist:

• Research and book early for the best rates
• Agree on your top priorities (relaxation, adventure, culture, etc.)
• Set a clear honeymoon budget

OTD (On-the-Day) Coordinator — Splurge

Even the best-planned weddings need someone to manage the day. A coordinator handles problems so you can focus on enjoying every moment.

• Worth the investment: A great coordinator is like wedding-day insurance.
• Peace of mind: They solve issues before you even notice them.

Checklist:

• Meet in advance and share your full schedule
• Provide all supplier contacts and contracts
• Give them an emergency kit (safety pins, snacks, medicines)

Wedding Planner — Save

If you're organized and enjoy planning, you can skip a full-service planner and use online resources or spreadsheets instead.

• Delegate tasks: Rely on friends and family for help.
• Stay flexible: The journey is as important as the destination.

Checklist:

• Use checklists and planning tools to stay on track
• Delegate specific tasks to responsible helpers
• Schedule planning-free days to avoid burnout

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding

• Communicate openly with your partner and families throughout the process
• Track every expense—little things add up quickly
• Take breaks—make time for each other outside wedding talk
• Focus on your love and partnership—that's what this day is really about

Congratulations! With the right priorities and planning, your wedding will be as beautiful, joyful, and memorable as your love story.