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First of all, congratulations on your engagement! It’s such a thrilling time, and we know you’re excited to start planning the wedding of your dreams. But where do you begin? That’s where UNION comes in. With our expertise and 828 Planning services, we’ll help guide you through the wedding planning process, ensuring that every detail is covered so you can enjoy this exciting journey.
To get you started, we’ve created an ultimate engagement checklist to help Kansas City couples tackle everything they need to do before walking down the aisle. Whether you’re months away from the big day or just starting to plan, these essential steps will help you stay on track.
UNION’s Ultimate Engagement Checklist
1. Book a Venue
One of the first things on your wedding checklist should be booking the venue. It sets the stage for your entire event! Venues in Kansas City tend to book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons, so make this a priority. At UNION, we offer a modern, versatile space that can adapt to your wedding vision.
Check out our guide to the best wedding venues in Kansas City.
2. Set Your Budget
Before you dive into the rest of your planning, it’s essential to set a realistic budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on key elements like the venue, catering, flowers, and photography. Having a clear budget in place will help you make informed decisions throughout the process.
3. Choose Your Wedding Date
The date you choose will influence many aspects of your wedding, from the availability of your venue to the type of flowers that are in season. Kansas City’s weather can vary, so consider if you’d prefer a summer garden wedding or a cozy indoor celebration in winter. Once you’ve settled on a date, lock it in!
Photo: Igmw Photography
4. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner (Hint: Use 828 Planning!)
If planning everything yourself feels like too much, consider hiring a wedding planner. Alternatively, our 828 Planning service offers hands-on assistance to ensure every aspect of your wedding is covered — from securing vendors to coordinating the timeline. Let us take some of the pressure off so you can enjoy the process!
5. Create a Guest List
Your guest list will impact several decisions, including the size of your venue and your catering needs. It’s a good idea to make a draft guest list early on. Whether you’re inviting 50 or 200 guests, knowing the size of your event helps streamline your planning process.
6. Hire a Photographer
Kansas City has plenty of talented photographers, but they book up quickly, so you’ll want to hire one early. Many photographers offer both engagement and wedding day packages, so this is a great time to book your engagement photo session, too. These photos can be used for save-the-dates and your wedding website.
7. Send Out Save-the-Dates
Once your venue and date are secured, it’s time to let your guests know. Send out save-the-dates around 6-8 months before your wedding, especially if you’re planning during a busy time in Kansas City or hosting out-of-town guests.
8. Plan Your Engagement Party
Many couples like to celebrate their engagement with a party. Whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a formal affair, Kansas City offers great venues and vendors to help you throw a memorable celebration. Just make sure you plan your engagement party far enough in advance so it doesn’t overlap with wedding-related tasks.
Photo: Igmw Photography
9. Book Your Vendors
From florists to DJs to caterers, now is the time to start booking vendors. Research local Kansas City vendors, schedule consultations, and lock in your top choices as soon as possible. Many vendors require a deposit to hold your date, so be prepared to make some financial commitments early on.
10. Design Your Wedding Website
A wedding website is a simple way to keep your guests informed about your big day. You can include details about your wedding venue, accommodations, travel recommendations, and your gift registry. Plus, it’s a handy way to keep track of RSVPs.
11. Select Your Wedding Attire
Start shopping for your wedding attire early! Bridal salons and custom suit shops in Kansas City often require months for ordering and tailoring. Whether you’re going for a classic look or something trendy, make sure you give yourself enough time to find the perfect fit.
12. Build Your Registry
Your wedding registry is one of the more fun parts of wedding planning! Whether you want to register for home goods, experiences, or even a honeymoon fund, think about what you and your partner will actually use. Many Kansas City stores offer personalized registry experiences, or you can set up a digital registry for added convenience.
13. Plan Your Honeymoon
Don’t forget to plan your post-wedding getaway! Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach vacation or a European adventure, start booking flights and accommodations early to get the best rates. Kansas City International Airport offers many direct flights to popular destinations, making travel easy for your honeymoon.
14. Order Invitations
Invitations should go out 6-8 weeks before your wedding. Choose a style that reflects your wedding theme, and don’t forget to include all the important details like the RSVP date, venue address, and accommodations for out-of-town guests.
15. Final Walkthrough with Your Venue
Before the big day, schedule a final walkthrough with your venue to confirm the layout, seating arrangements, and any other logistics. This is the perfect time to iron out any last-minute details and ensure everything is set for a smooth, stress-free wedding.
Ready to Start Planning Your Kansas City Wedding?
At UNION, we’re here to make your wedding planning journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With our 828 Planning services, you’ll have expert guidance every step of the way. From selecting your dream vendors to creating the perfect event timeline, we’ve got you covered. Reach out today to start planning your unforgettable Kansas City wedding at UNION!
