Book Venue and Photographer First

Venues and photographers run out first. Both take one booking per date, so a Saturday in spring or summer disappears the moment someone else signs, often 12 to 18 months ahead. Start venue research at that range, shortlist three to five, and visit in person before comparing anything else. Book the venue first, because it fixes your date, your guest ceiling, and a large share of your budget, and nearly every other decision depends on at least one of those. Then book the photographer immediately, while your date is still unusual enough to be open. Caterers, florists, and stylists take several bookings a weekend and can be arranged later without losing your first choice.