Top 5 Planning Tasks You Can Start Now as a 2026 Bride

Looking for the best Connecticut wedding planner? Meet Of Elegance.

If you’re recently engaged and planning a 2026 wedding, congratulations! This is such an exciting chapter—and one that comes with a lot of decisions. But don’t worry, you don’t have to figure it all out at once.

Whether you’re getting married in Connecticut, New York, or beyond, here are 5 planning tasks you can confidently begin now to get ahead—and avoid overwhelm later.

1. Define Your Budget

Before you fall in love with a venue or book a single vendor, take the time to outline your overall budget. This will guide every decision from here on out.

2. Nail Down Your Estimated Guest Count

The number of guests impacts your venue options, your rentals, your catering quote—and your overall vibe. Start by creating an “A List” of must-invite people, and build from there.

3. Book Your Wedding Planner

Hiring your planner early allows us to:

-Help you secure your venue
-Recommend trusted, high-end vendors that DELIVER!!
-Map out a planning timeline that fits your schedule and goals

4. Research (and Tour!) Connecticut Wedding Venues

Once you have a rough budget and guest list, it’s time to tour venues. In Connecticut, many venues book 12–18 months out.

A few of our favorites:

Wadsworth Mansion (classic & elegant.. those European vibes right in Connecticut https://www.wadsworthmansion.com/)

Smith Farm Gardens (tented & perfect for garden weddings) https://smithfarmgardens.com/

Waveny House (romantic + intimate) https://www.wavenyhouseevents.com/

Country Club of Darien (timeless) https://www.ccdarien.org/

The Village Stamford (lounge + bar rooftop vibes) https://www.thevillagestamford.com/