Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming experiences in life. With so many details to consider, from the venue to the vendors, it's easy to feel lost. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the wedding planning process.

1. Set Your Budget

Before you start dreaming about flower arrangements and designer lehengas, sit down with your partner and families to determine your overall wedding budget. This crucial first step will guide all your subsequent decisions.

Consider these major expense categories:

• Venue and catering (40-50% of budget)
• Photography and videography (10-15%)
• Attire and jewelry (10-15%)
• Decoration and flowers (8-10%)
• Entertainment and music (5-8%)
• Miscellaneous and buffer (10%)

2. Choose Your Wedding Date

Selecting the perfect date involves considering multiple factors - auspicious muhurat dates, weather conditions, venue availability, and guest convenience. In India, wedding season typically runs from October to February, with peak demand during November and December.

3. Find Your Dream Venue

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Whether you're dreaming of a palace wedding in Udaipur, a beach celebration in Goa, or an elegant banquet hall in Delhi, start your venue search at least 12-18 months in advance.

Key factors to consider:

• Guest capacity and layout
• In-house catering options
• Parking and accessibility
• Accommodation availability
• Decoration flexibility

4. Book Your Vendors

Great vendors get booked quickly, especially during wedding season. Start reaching out to photographers, makeup artists, decorators, and caterers at least 8-10 months before your wedding date.

5. Design Your Wedding Look

From the bride's lehenga to the groom's sherwani, your wedding attire deserves special attention. Start shopping 6-8 months in advance, especially for custom-made outfits that require multiple fittings.

6. Plan Your Ceremonies

Indian weddings are a beautiful amalgamation of rituals and celebrations. Work with your families and pandit to plan each ceremony - from the mehendi and sangeet to the pheras and reception.

7. Send Invitations

Whether you choose traditional paper invites or modern digital cards, send them out 6-8 weeks before the wedding. Don't forget to follow up with guests for RSVPs to finalize your headcount.

Final Tips

Remember, your wedding is a celebration of love. While planning is important, don't let stress overshadow the joy of this special time. Delegate tasks, trust your vendors, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of this beautiful journey.