Planning a Wedding in 2026? Here’s What to Think About First

If you’ve recently gotten engaged and 2026 is on your radar, you’re not alone. More couples are planning further ahead than ever before - not because they need to rush, but because they want to make thoughtful, stress-free choices from the beginning.

Before diving into Pinterest boards and colour palettes, here are a few key things worth thinking about early in your planning journey.

1. Your Venue Comes First (For a Reason)

Your venue sets the tone for almost every other decision - from guest numbers and styling, to catering, photography and your overall timeline.

For 2026/27 couples, we’re seeing:

• Earlier venue bookings

• More emphasis on all-in-one spaces

• Venues that offer both beauty and practicality

Choosing your venue first gives everything else clarity. Once your date and location are locked in, the rest of the planning tends to fall into place more easily.

2. Think About the Experience, Not Just the Aesthetic

While styling is still important, couples are now prioritising how the day feels.

Ask yourselves:

• Do we want a relaxed, flowing day or a formal, structured one?

• Do we want guests moving through different spaces?

• Do we want time to actually be present with our family and friends?

Experience-led weddings feel effortless, personal and memorable - and they often age better than trend-heavy designs.

3. Consider Flexibility (Especially with Weather)

Even in beautiful locations, flexibility matters.

More couples are choosing venues that offer:

• Wet-weather ceremony options

• Seamless indoor-outdoor flow

• Backup plans that still feel intentional, not rushed

This isn’t about expecting the worst - it’s about peace of mind.

4. Guest Numbers Are Becoming More Intentional

Rather than inviting everyone they’ve ever met, many couples are choosing:

• Smaller, more meaningful guest lists

• Fewer tables, higher quality details

• Longer conversations, less rushing

This shift allows couples to invest in the things that matter most to them — whether that’s food, florals, photography or the overall atmosphere.

5. Book Key Vendors Earlier Than You Think

For 2027 weddings, in-demand vendors are booking well in advance.

These are usually the first to lock in:

• Venue

• Photographer

• Celebrant

• Hair & makeup

Securing your core team early means less stress later — and more choice.

6. Give Yourself Permission to Plan Slowly

One of the biggest advantages of planning a 2027 wedding? Time.

You don’t need to decide everything at once. Planning slowly allows you to:

• Make intentional choices

• Adjust your vision as it evolves

• Enjoy the process rather than rush it

A calm, considered approach almost always results in a better day.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a wedding in 2026/27, think less about ticking boxes and more about creating a day that feels true to you.

Start with a venue that supports your vision, offers flexibility, and creates a beautiful backdrop - then build everything else around that foundation.

Planning early isn’t about pressure.
It’s about confidence.

IMAGES BY @BEATRIZWEDDINGS