Just Engaged Over The New Year? Your Essential First 10 Steps to Wedding Planning

Getting engaged is one of life’s most exciting moments — but once the celebrations calm down, many couples find themselves asking the same question: “Where do we actually start?”

If you’re newly engaged and planning a UK wedding in 2026, this guide will walk you through the first ten essential steps to help you feel organised, confident, and genuinely excited about what comes next.

1. Take time to celebrate

Before you dive into planning spreadsheets and supplier searches, pause and enjoy this milestone. Share the news with family and friends, celebrate in your own way, and allow yourselves a moment to simply be engaged.

2. Talk about your wedding vision

You don’t need to have everything figured out, but it’s helpful to discuss what kind of wedding you both imagine. Is it big or small? Relaxed or formal? Traditional or modern? These early conversations will shape every decision that follows.

3. Set an initial budget

Budgeting can feel daunting, but starting with a realistic overall figure makes everything else easier. Factor in savings, family contributions (if any), and what you feel comfortable spending. You can refine this later using WeddingPlanner.co.uk’s budget planning tools, which help break costs into manageable categories.

4. Choose a rough timeframe

You don’t need an exact date yet, but deciding whether you’re thinking 12 months, 18 months or two years ahead helps narrow down venues and suppliers. Many UK couples planning for 2026 are securing venues early, especially for spring and summer weekends.

5. Create a free WeddingPlanner.co.uk account

Having everything in one place makes planning far less overwhelming. With a free WeddingPlanner account, you can access personalised checklists, budget trackers, guest list tools and trusted supplier listings — all designed to work together.

6. Start a guest list draft

Even a rough guest list helps estimate costs and venue size. Don’t worry about final decisions yet — this is simply about understanding numbers and priorities.

7. Explore venues and suppliers

Start browsing venues and key suppliers like photographers, videographers and bands. WeddingPlanner.co.uk lets you search by location, availability and style, making it easier to shortlist professionals who match your vision.

8. Build your wedding website

Many couples now create their wedding website early. It’s a simple way to share engagement photos, collect RSVPs later on, and keep guests informed. WeddingPlanner’s free website builder makes this easy, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

9. Think about what matters most

Decide together what your top priorities are — food, photography, music, location, guest experience. This helps you allocate budget wisely and avoid unnecessary stress.

10. Enjoy the process

Wedding planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, support and mindset, it can be one of the most exciting parts of your engagement.