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How to Plan a Wedding Without Losing Your Mind: Late Summer Edition
- Leah Toplass
- Aug 28
- 3 min read
Summer is winding down, and while most people are soaking up the last of the sunshine, many newly engaged couples are asking the big question: “Where do we even start with wedding planning?”
If you’re hoping to tie the knot in 2026 (or even late 2025), late summer is the perfect time to get organised. Venues are booking up fast, suppliers are filling their diaries, and suddenly that “plenty of time” feeling turns into panic. But don’t worry—planning a wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a calm approach and the right support (like a planner who can keep everything running smoothly), you can actually enjoy the process.
Here are my top stress-free planning tips for couples starting now:
1. Start with Vision, Not Details
Before you book a single supplier, sit down together and talk about how you want your wedding to feel. Do you picture a relaxed garden celebration? A grand ballroom evening? A festival-style weekend? Getting clear on the vibe will make every decision easier.
✨ Pro tip: I always start with this step when working with couples—it sets the tone for the whole planning journey and makes sure your day reflects you.
2. Lock in Your Venue First
Venues often book 12–18 months in advance, so this is your first big task. Once you know where you’re getting married, everything else (catering, décor, guest flow, timings) will fall into place more easily.
✨ Pro tip: As a planner, I can help you ask the right questions during venue tours, so you know exactly what’s included (and what isn’t) before you commit.
3. Prioritize Your Must-Haves
Every couple has 2–3 things they care about most. It could be amazing food, live music, or stunning photography. Agree on your top priorities early so your budget reflects what matters most to you.
✨ Pro tip: I often help couples balance their must-haves with their budget, making sure they get the things they value most without overspending.
4. Build a Realistic Timeline
Wedding planning can feel like a full-time job, which is why so many couples get stressed. Break it into manageable chunks and spread the tasks across the year.
✨ Pro tip: I create tailored timelines for my couples so nothing gets left to the last minute. Want a shortcut? Download my Wedding Planning Checklist below—it tells you exactly what to focus on month by month.
5. Delegate (You Don’t Have to Do It All!)
This is where couples often burn out—trying to manage everything. Remember: your wedding day should feel joyful, not like a project deadline. Lean on your wedding party, family, or better yet, hire a wedding coordinator to keep the details on track.
✨ Pro tip: As your “day-of coordinator,” I liaise with all suppliers, manage your timeline, and quietly solve problems in the background so you can sip champagne, laugh with your guests, and dance all night.
6. Enjoy the Season You’re In
It’s easy to wish the months away, but this time leading up to your wedding is part of your story. Celebrate little milestones, like sending save-the-dates or booking your band. Make planning a fun date-night activity instead of a stressful to-do list.
✨ Pro tip: I often remind my couples that planning should be part of the joy, not the stress. A planner helps keep things lighthearted and enjoyable.
Planning a wedding is a journey, not a race. By starting now, pacing yourself, and leaning on the right support, you can keep the process joyful instead of stressful. That’s exactly where I come in—as your wedding planner and on-the-day coordinator, I handle the details, liaise with suppliers, and make sure your timeline runs smoothly so you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love.
If you’d like expert guidance and a calm presence to keep everything on track, I’d love to help bring your dream wedding to life. 💍✨
Love,
Leah x
GET IN TOUCH with Leah here!
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