So, you’ve said “Yes!”—whether it was to your partner’s proposal or to that perfect dress. Now, the real wedding planning begins. Amid all the excitement, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the details. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how couples can get caught up in the hustle of choosing florals, sending invitations, or booking venues. But some key decisions made early on can help ensure everything falls into place smoothly—and that you’ll have the beautiful memories you deserve.

Here are the top 3 things to secure after saying “yes” to the wedding:

1. Secure Your Wedding Photographer

In the whirlwind of planning, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who will capture your day. After all, your wedding photos are your lasting memories!

When selecting a photographer, think about the style that best reflects you and your partner. Do you love the timeless elegance of classic photography, or are you more drawn to the candid, journalistic approach of photojournalism? Regardless of your style, you’ll want to book your photographer early. Great wedding photographers tend to book up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don’t wait! Meet with potential photographers to see if their personality and work align with your vision.

Also, ask about the services they provide—do they offer engagement sessions, albums, or second shooters? Knowing what’s included will help you make an informed decision.

2. Choose Your Venue

Before you get swept away with floral arrangements or cake tastings, your wedding venue should be at the top of your priority list. The venue sets the tone for your celebration and often plays a major role in other decisions, like your photographer’s approach and your wedding timeline.

When touring venues, consider the following:

• Location and Accessibility: Is it easy for guests to find and get to?
• Size and Layout: Does the space fit your guest list comfortably? Will it work for both the ceremony and reception?
• Ambiance: Does the venue’s style match your theme or vision for the day?
• Logistics: What is the venue’s policy on decor, catering, and timing? Are there any restrictions?

3. Plan Your Guest List

It might sound obvious, but creating and finalizing your guest list early will make a significant impact on nearly every aspect of your wedding. The number of guests affects the choice of venue, your catering budget, and even the size of your wedding cake. It’s also important for your photographer, as they need to know how many people to expect for group shots or candid moments.

A few tips for organizing your guest list:

• Start with your must-haves: List family members and close friends who absolutely must be there.
• Be realistic: Consider your venue capacity and budget when deciding how large or intimate you want your celebration to be.
• Collaborate: Work with your partner (and families, if needed) to avoid unnecessary conflicts.Once you have your final list, it will help guide the rest of your planning, from invitations to catering to choosing a photographer who can manage your desired shot list.

Bonus Tip: Prioritize What Matters Most to You

While these three items are essential, it’s important to remember that every wedding is unique. Focus on the aspects that will make you and your partner the happiest. Whether it’s the photography, the venue, or something else entirely, invest time in securing what’s most important to you both.

At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating your love story. Taking care of these three foundational elements will help ensure that the big day goes off without a hitch—and that you’ll have beautiful photos to treasure for a lifetime. Happy planning!