Starting to plan the wedding of your dreams can feel overwhelming, to say the least. Don’t panic, though. The key to getting started is to break large tasks into simple steps, so you can take things one day at a time.

For now, focus on these three easy, immediate, and impactful to-do list items. You can do them all without even changing out of your pajamas.

#1 Develop a Vision

Executing your dream wedding can’t happen without first nailing down your overall vision for the event. Think about where you and your fiance would like to get married, what season your wedding will take place in, and what the aesthetic, colors, or overall theme will be. Create a board with ideas that inspire you (and that you can share with your wedding planner and other vendors later on).

#2 Come Up With a Ballpark Budget

Once you have an idea of what your dream wedding will look like, it’s time to figure out how you’re going to pay for it. Total how much you and your fiance are willing to contribute. Then take into account any other potential contributions from family or elsewhere. Now you have an idea of how much you have to work with and if you’ll need to cut costs.

#3 Research

Research is another key part of the early planning stages. Look into ceremony and reception venues in your target area. And don’t forget to research and get referrals for a wedding planner, if you plan to use one.

Start scrolling vendor postings on Zola or even just peruse some real wedding photos to glean inspiration for your big day.

Next up: Set a date, put together the guest list, and choose your wedding party. It's all happening!