7 First Steps Every Bride Must Take for Stress-Free Wedding Planning: From Naperville Wedding Photographer
- rkruegerphoto
- Jan 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 20
7 First Steps Every Bride Must Take for Stress-Free Wedding Planning: From Naperville Wedding Photographer 1. Set Your Must-Have Vision
Dream big but prioritize: elegant ballroom gala, rustic barn charm, or lakeside sunset vows? Jot 3-5 non-negotiables (guest count 100? Golden-hour portraits?) to guide every choice.
2. Nail Down Your Date and Venue
Pick a Saturday in peak season (May-Oct for Chicagoland) or cozy fall weekday, then scout 3 venues matching your vibe—Naperville hotels, Lisle estates, or Morton Arboretum gems. Book 12-18 months out.
3. Build Your Dream Within Your Budget
Tally the total amount you are planning to spend on your wedding (many Chicago weddings land around $30,000 or more).
Then, use percentages to divide that number across the major parts of your day, keeping 10–20% set aside for photography so you can confidently capture everything you are investing in.
Suggested budget percentages
15–25%: Photography (and optional videography)
40–50%: Venue, food, and bar
5–10%: Band or DJ
5%: Wedding dress and attire
7%: Florals and décor
3%: Hair and makeup
Do not forget these itemsGroom’s attire, wedding bands, and gifts for family and the wedding party
Invitations, place cards, thank-you cards, and any extra reception décorAdd a smart buffer
Plan to leave an additional 10–20% of your total budget as a buffer for surprises like bar overtime, vendor tips, last‑minute changes, or that one extra detail you decide you must have.
4. Create Your VIP Vendor Shortlist
Start with the photographer (hint: me!), then planner, florist, DJ. Seek pros with glowing reviews, insurance, and contracts that excite. Chicago's best blend reliability with magic.
.
5. Assemble Your Planning Dream Team
Loop in your partner, moms, and 1-2 trusted friends for input; assign roles like "venue researcher." Tools like Wix sites or Honeyfund streamline invites and RSVPs.
6. Book Key Pros Early
Secure photographer, venue, officiant first—they fill fast. For $4k+ packages, expect full-day coverage, second shooter, and edited galleries in 30 days.
7. Design Your Day-of Timeline
Sketch hours: ceremony 4pm, portraits golden hour, reception dancing by 7pm. Share with vendors for seamless flow, especially photo ops at iconic spots. As a photographer who is part of every meaningful moment, I will work with you on the timeline and help guide you through every detail!
Ready for your wedding checklist partner?
My collections start at $2,750— inquire for availability
Let's check photography off your list!
-Rob KruegerRob Krueger Photography