Did you recently say “yes” to your forever person’s proposal and are wondering where to begin in wedding planning? It is totally understandable and normal to feel overwhelmed – wedding planning is completely new to you, and it can be A LOT. It’s likely something you’ve never done before! So, don’t worry. I’m here to help get you on the right path with these essential wedding planning steps for newly engaged couples. Read on to learn where to begin.

Newly Engaged and Wondering Where to Begin in Wedding Planning?

Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and now that you’re officially on your wedding planning journey, it’s time to start thinking about how to bring your luxury wedding vision to life. Whether you dream of a grand ballroom, an elegant estate, or a breathtaking beachfront venue, your wedding should reflect your unique love story and personal style.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential first steps in wedding planning, with a focus on high-end and luxury weddings. From setting your budget to choosing the perfect venue, selecting top-tier vendors, and defining your wedding vibe, I’ll cover everything you need to know to start planning your dream day.

1. Define Your Wedding Vibe & Vision: Crafting the Perfect Atmosphere

Before diving into the details of wedding planning—choosing the perfect venue, selecting floral arrangements, and booking vendors—it’s essential to first define the overall vibe and vision for your big day. After all, your wedding should feel like a reflection of who you are as a couple and the unique love story you’re celebrating. Is your dream wedding an opulent affair with chandeliers and champagne fountains, or something more relaxed with bohemian touches and natural elements? The possibilities are endless, but finding clarity on the atmosphere you want to create will guide your decisions moving forward.

As luxury wedding planners, photographers, and designers often say, “Your wedding day should feel like an extension of your personality and your love story.” To help you define your vision, start by asking yourselves (and each other) a few key questions that will clarify the overall tone of your celebration. Whether your taste is classic and elegant or modern and edgy, these questions will help you narrow down the specifics.

The Start of Planning: Key Questions to Define Your Wedding Vibe & Vision:

1. What Kind of Atmosphere Do You Want to Create? Think about the overall feeling you want to evoke. Do you want a glamorous, high-energy celebration, or something more intimate and relaxed? The venue and décor choices will vary depending on this decision.

• For Glamorous & Elegant: Do you envision an opulent ballroom with crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and a black-tie dress code? Your décor would feature luxe touches like velvet linens, gold accents, and elegant floral arrangements.
• For Romantic & Intimate: Perhaps you’re leaning toward a candle-lit dinner in a private garden, or a soft, rustic vineyard setting, with long tables draped in lace and surrounded by flowing greenery.

2. What Are Your Personal Style Preferences? Your wedding is an opportunity to showcase your personal style, whether it’s fashion, color palette, or overall design. Are you drawn to timeless classics, or do you prefer modern, minimalist details?

• Timeless & Traditional: Think about elegant, structured elements like a classic ball gown, white roses, and a grand church ceremony.
• Modern & Chic: Do you prefer sleek, contemporary designs with bold colors and unique materials like acrylic chairs, geometric floral installations, and a high-fashion wedding dress?

3. Where Do You See Your Wedding Happening? The venue you choose can define your wedding’s vibe. Do you want to exchange vows at an exotic destination, in a luxury hotel ballroom, or perhaps in a more unconventional location like an art gallery or private estate?

• Luxury Destination Wedding: For a couple who wants the world as their stage, a destination wedding could be in the heart of Paris at a world-renowned hotel, or perhaps an exclusive beachfront resort in the Maldives.
• Elegant Ballroom or Historic Venue: If you want a classic luxury wedding, think of venues like The Plaza in New York City or an Italian château, where the rich history and elegant architecture set the stage for a sophisticated celebration.

4. What Is Your Dream Wedding Dress Style? The dress is one of the most important elements of your wedding and will help define the tone of your day. Do you prefer timeless elegance, vintage glam, or a more modern, fashion-forward design?

• Classic Bridal Gown: If you’re imagining a wedding that’s timeless and regal, perhaps a dramatic ball gown from a couture designer like Oscar de la Renta or Carolina Herrera.
• Modern & Edgy: If you lean toward modern aesthetics, you might opt for a sleek, minimalist gown from a designer like Vera Wang or a jumpsuit or two-piece look.

5. What Type of Dining Experience Do You Envision for Your Guests? Food is a vital part of the experience and the luxury wedding dining experience should feel just as elevated as the rest of your celebration. Do you want a multi-course plated meal with wine pairings or a more interactive, indulgent experience?

• Fine Dining: A 5-course plated meal with options like foie gras, truffle risotto, and champagne pairings could be perfect for a refined celebration.
• Unique & Interactive: Consider offering your guests a more immersive experience, such as a live sushi station, molecular gastronomy for a dramatic effect, or a gourmet food truck serving upscale snacks during the reception.

6. What Colors and Décor Speak to You? Colors and décor can greatly influence the overall mood of your wedding. Think about colors that resonate with your personalities and the atmosphere you want to create.

• Soft Pastels & Floral Elegance: For a soft and romantic feel, think blush pinks, lavender, and ivory with cascading floral installations. Gold or crystal accents add that extra touch of glamour.
• Bold & Dramatic: For a high-fashion, edgy wedding, consider deep jewel tones like emerald, navy, or burgundy, paired with modern décor elements like black marble, sleek metallics, and statement lighting.

7. What Type of Entertainment Will Set the Tone? Entertainment plays a significant role in shaping the energy of your wedding. Will your wedding be filled with upbeat music that keeps everyone dancing all night, or is your focus on an elegant, quiet atmosphere with classical music and refined entertainment?

• Grand Entertainment: A luxury wedding could feature a famous DJ, live band, or even a classical string quartet during the ceremony, followed by a high-energy performance by a celebrity or world-class entertainers.
• Sophisticated & Subtle: Perhaps you’re imagining a softer vibe, with a string quartet or harpist at the ceremony, followed by a jazz band or a soft piano performance at the reception.

8. What Do You Want Your Guests to Remember Most? Think about how you want your guests to feel during and after your wedding. Do you want them to remember the beauty of your venue, the sophistication of your reception, or perhaps the personal touches that made your celebration unique?

• Exclusive & VIP: You could surprise your guests with a luxury gift bag filled with bespoke items, a personalized welcome message, and premium transport to the venue.
• Emotional & Heartfelt: Think about incorporating meaningful touches—such as a personalized vow exchange, a custom signature cocktail, or a thank-you video message— that will leave a lasting impression.

2. Set Your Wedding Budget: Planning The Foundation of Your Dream Day

The very first step in your wedding planning journey is setting a clear, realistic budget. My best advice for setting your overall budget would be to think of the amount you’d like to spend, and then add a bit more. You should always plan for extra costs along the way. For a luxury wedding, your budget can range drastically between $75,000 to $500,000+, depending on the venue, vendors, and scale of your celebration. This includes everything from your venue, catering, and entertainment to the dress, décor, and photography.

Key Considerations:

• Prioritize What Matters Most: Luxury weddings are about crafting an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Choose where to allocate your funds carefully—perhaps splurging on a high-end venue or top-tier catering, while opting for a more modest option for favors or décor.
• Plan for Hidden Costs: Luxury weddings often come with additional expenses that are easy to overlook, like tips for your vendors, insurance, or security for high-profile guests. Make sure to leave room in your budget for these.

3. Choose Your Wedding Venue: Planning The Heart of Your Celebration

When it comes to planning your wedding, the venue is everything. It’s where your guests will gather, and it will be the backdrop for your most cherished moments. Think about what kind of atmosphere you want to create—do you prefer the charm of a historic estate, the elegance of a grand ballroom, or the serene beauty of a coastal retreat? Here are some of the most stunning luxury wedding venues in Boston, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire that cater to high-end celebrations.

Luxury Wedding Venues in Boston:

The Boston Public Library: A stunning historic venue in the heart of Boston, the Boston Public Library offers beautiful architectural details, from marble columns to grand staircases. It’s a favorite for couples looking for a timeless, sophisticated atmosphere, with spaces that can accommodate both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions.

• Capacity: 150-400 guests
• Price Range: $10,000 – $40,000+

The Fairmont Copley Plaza: Known for its rich history and luxury, this iconic hotel offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with stunning views of Copley Square. The Fairmont is the epitome of Boston’s high-end charm, featuring elegant ballrooms and beautiful spaces for photos.

• Capacity: 100-300 guests
• Price Range: $15,000 – $50,000+

The State Room: If you’re dreaming of a chic, urban wedding with breathtaking views of Boston’s skyline and harbor, The State Room is a top-tier venue. Located on the 33rd floor, this venue offers dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows that make for spectacular photos and a memorable setting for your big day.

• Capacity: 150-250 guests
• Price Range: $20,000 – $50,000+

The Willowdale Estate (Topsfield, MA): Another gorgeous historic option just outside of Boston is the Willowdale Estate, located in Topsfield, Massachusetts. The estate is known for its elegant setting and versatile event spaces.

• Capacity: 70-240 guests
• Price Range: $30,000 – $60,000+
  

Misselwood at Endicott College (Beverly, MA): Misselwood is a stunning oceanfront wedding venue located along Boston’s North Shore, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic, beautifully manicured lawns, and a historic mansion that creates an elegant and romantic setting for ceremonies and receptions.

• Capacity: Up to 200 guests
• Price Range: $40,000 – $80,000+

Misselwood – Beverly, MA

Luxury Wedding Venues in Rhode Island:

OceanCliff Hotel & Resort (Newport, RI): Located on the coast of Rhode Island, OceanCliff Hotel & Resort offers a luxury wedding experience with stunning views of Narragansett Bay. Its beautiful gardens, seaside terrace, and grand ballroom are perfect for couples who want a romantic, upscale celebration with a view.

• Capacity: 50-250 guests
• Price Range: $15,000 – $40,000+

The Chanler at Cliff Walk (Newport, RI): A historic mansion perched above the cliffs of Newport, The Chanler is the ideal venue for a romantic, intimate luxury wedding. With elegant rooms, lush gardens, and panoramic ocean views, this venue provides an exclusive atmosphere for a refined celebration.

• Capacity: 50-150 guests
• Price Range: $10,000 – $40,000+

Castle Hill Inn (Newport, RI): This beautiful seaside property offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and provides a perfect setting for a luxury wedding. Whether you choose a waterfront ceremony or a more intimate indoor gathering, Castle Hill Inn offers world-class service and amenities.

• Capacity: 50-250 guests
• Price Range: $20,000 – $60,000+

Castle Hill Inn – Newport, RI

Luxury Wedding Venues in New Hampshire:

The Mount Washington Hotel (Bretton Woods, NH): Nestled in the White Mountains, The Mount Washington Hotel is a landmark venue that combines luxury with stunning natural beauty. Its grand ballroom and sweeping views of Mount Washington make it an ideal venue for a high-end celebration that feels both elegant and timeless.

• Capacity: 100-300 guests
• Price Range: $20,000 – $70,000+

Wentworth by the Sea (New Castle, NH): This historic seaside venue offers luxury, charm, and elegance in abundance. With its elegant ballroom, gorgeous gardens, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Wentworth by the Sea provides an unforgettable backdrop for a luxury wedding.

• Capacity: 50-250 guests
• Price Range: $15,000 – $50,000+

Owl’s Nest Resort (Thornton, NH): Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Owl’s Nest Resort offers a picturesque setting for weddings, combining natural beauty with modern amenities.

• Capacity: 50-200 guests
• Price Range: $15,000 – $50,000+

Owl’s Nest Resort – Thornton, NH

Key Considerations:

• Location & Accessibility: Whether you choose a Boston city venue or a destination spot like New Hampshire or Rhode Island, make sure the location is accessible to your guests, especially if many are traveling from out of town.
• Venue Style: Your venue will set the tone for your wedding, so choose one that aligns with your vision—whether that’s grand and historical, modern and chic, or romantic and intimate.

4. Hire Your Key Wedding Vendors: Your Dream Team

Once you have your venue locked in, it’s time to start thinking about your wedding vendors. For a luxury wedding, you’ll want to choose only the best to ensure your day goes off without a hitch. Find vendors you trust, speak to them on phone/video calls to get to know them and their experience, and ask for help if you need it!

My #1 tip for planning a luxury wedding is to hire a wedding planner. They will take all of the workload off of you, and leave you with the fun decisions! You will not regret hiring one, as they make the process so much smoother. They will also help you get in touch with the rest of your vendors.

5. Curate Your Wedding Guest List: Crafting an Exclusive Experience

The guest list for a luxury wedding is typically more selective, allowing you to craft an intimate, VIP experience for those closest to you. Whether your list is 50 guests or 200, each person should feel like a VIP at your celebration.

Example: Curating a guest list of 100 people, offering personalized luxury transportation, custom welcome gifts, and a champagne toast at the ceremony site for a VIP experience.

Summary: Start Your Luxury Wedding Planning with Confidence

Planning a wedding is an exciting and deeply personal journey. From setting a realistic budget to selecting a breathtaking venue and choosing top-tier vendors, every decision is an opportunity to craft a day that reflects your unique love story. Whether you choose an iconic venue in Boston, a romantic estate in Rhode Island, or a serene mountain retreat in New Hampshire, the key is to make choices that align with your vision and style.

Once you’ve nailed down your venue and vendors, it’s time to focus on the finer details that will make your wedding day unforgettable. By defining your wedding vibe, selecting the right vendors, and working with professionals who understand the luxury market, you’ll be able to create a celebration that’s not only beautiful but also truly unique.

Ready to Capture Every Moment of Your Wedding?

As you begin this exciting process, remember that your wedding photographer plays a critical role in ensuring your day is beautifully documented. I specialize in capturing the elegance, emotion, and intricate details of luxury weddings, creating timeless images that you’ll cherish forever.

If you’re ready to book a photographer who understands the high-end wedding experience and can provide a bespoke approach to your big day, I’d love to help. Visit my website to view my portfolio, learn more about my photography style, and get in touch to discuss how I can make your wedding day memories truly unforgettable.

Let’s turn your vision into art!

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