Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and as you begin to plan your dream wedding, the journey ahead may feel overwhelming. Don’t worry – we’re here to help. Whether you’re tying the knot in Columbus, Ohio, or planning a destination wedding, this guide will walk you through the first steps to take after saying “yes.”
As a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer with over a decade of experience, I’ve had the honor of documenting countless love stories. One thing I’ve learned is that a well-organized start to wedding planning leads to a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Let’s dive in!
1. Celebrate Your Engagement
Before diving into logistics, take time to savor the moment.
- Host an engagement party or plan a celebratory dinner with close friends and family.
- Consider scheduling an engagement photo session with a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer to capture this special milestone. Engagement photos not only preserve these memories but can also be used for save-the-dates and wedding websites.
2. Establish a Wedding Budget
Setting a budget is a critical first step. Discuss your priorities as a couple and determine which aspects of the wedding are most important.
- Allocate funds for key vendors, including your venue, catering, and photography.
- Pro tip: Prioritize your wedding photographer in Columbus, Ohio, as availability for popular dates can book up quickly.
3. Choose a Wedding Date and Venue
Once you have a budget in place, it’s time to lock in a date and venue.
- Consider venues that align with your wedding vision. Columbus offers everything from chic downtown locations to scenic countryside barns.
- Popular venues in Columbus include The Junto Hotel, The Beverly Mansion, and Franklin Park Conservatory.
- Booking your venue early gives you a solid timeline to build the rest of your plans around.
4. Hire Your Dream Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photos will be one of the few tangible memories of your big day, so hiring the right photographer is essential.
- Search for Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers who align with your style. Do you prefer timeless, documentary-style photography or something more editorial?
- Check reviews, browse portfolios, and schedule consultations to ensure you connect with your photographer on a personal level.
- Many photographers, including myself, offer packages tailored to your needs, from full-day coverage to elopement options.
5. Create Your Wedding Vision
Think about the vibe you want for your wedding. Are you envisioning a modern downtown celebration, a romantic garden soirée, or an intimate ceremony with just your closest loved ones?
- Build a Pinterest board or mood board to gather inspiration.
- Share your vision with key vendors like your planner, florist, and photographer to ensure everyone is aligned.
6. Build Your Vendor Dream Team
Columbus is home to some of the most talented wedding vendors who can help bring your dream to life.
- Planner: A great planner can relieve stress and ensure every detail is perfect.
- Florist: Look for florists like Kida Flower House, known for their ability to craft stunning, personalized arrangements.
- Hair and Makeup: Check out local artists like Denise Chesser for natural, glowing bridal looks.
7. Start Thinking About Your Guests
Your wedding is a celebration of love, not just for you but also for your family and friends.
- Build a guest list early to get a headcount for the venue and catering.
- Consider their experience by providing comfortable accommodations and clear travel details.
8. Plan for Engagement Photos
An engagement session is not only fun but also gives you a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.
- Choose a location meaningful to you as a couple – maybe German Village or Scioto Mile.
- Your Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer can help you select the best spots for your session based on lighting and ambiance.
Here are some links to recent engagement shoots I’ve photographed in Columbus, Ohio:
9. Enjoy the Process
While it’s easy to get caught up in the details, remember what this day is all about – celebrating your love story. Surround yourself with vendors who care about your vision and make the process enjoyable.
Why Choosing the Right Photographer Matters
As one of the top Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers, I specialize in creating timeless wedding imagery that captures the love, joy, and connection of your special day. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate elopement, my goal is to deliver photos that stand the test of time.
Ready to Start Planning?
If you’re newly engaged and searching for a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer to document your love story, I’d be honored to chat with you about your wedding vision. Visit www.asteriaphoto.com to learn more about my services and browse my portfolio.
Your wedding day is the start of a beautiful chapter, and it deserves to be captured with care and artistry. Let’s make magic together!
Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.
Ohio + NYC based destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, editorial imagery. Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers specializing in candid photography.
