SCHULAMIE AHN - APR 17 2025
The Fiancé Journey: The Wedding Planning Essentials
Photo from Pexel
Now this is where the fun (or stress!--if planning feels daunting) begins. Before you go into the fun extraneous details of it all...like photography style, photobooths, or even music choices. I implore you to begin with THE major factors of a wedding. Let's make it into a fun and easy-to-remember acronym: CFV. Catering. Florals. & Venue.
Why CFV?
Maximizing Your Wedding Budget. When planning a wedding, the biggest expenses typically come from the venue and catering, as they often work together in tandem, and then it's florals. These costs can take up a significant portion of your budget, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly.
Setting the Vibes. Choosing the right venue, cuisine, and floral design is about more than just the cost—they set the tone for your entire wedding day. These elements shape the atmosphere and directly impact every other detail, from décor to guest experience.
Tips & Tricks. Plan well. Plan smart. We'll guide you with our expertise.
Set a budget.
Before anything else! Even a general budget is great for organized planning. Knowing the general costs of venues, catering, and florals will set your expectations in the right place. However, these factors will all depend on your taste. So, let me give you a 'average' cost breakdown for a wedding in Southern California.
Cost Breakdown
- Venue: $3k - $10k
- Catering: $85-$150/per person.
- Florals: $5k - $7k
**Please note that these costs are the base costs. No taxes or service fees included.
Typically, service fees range from 15% to 25% of the total cost. Some venues may charge a flat fee, while others calculate it as a percentage of the overall bill.
For a wedding for 200, the median cost of these three factors will be $37k (Venue, Catering, Florals) + $7,400 (20% Service fee) = ~$44k
Figure out your design
The venue, cuisine, and floral design go beyond mere logistical decisions—they are the cornerstone of your wedding’s ambiance. These elements, when harmoniously selected, come together to craft an experience that is a true reflection of your unique style and vision.
The perfect balance not only elevates the visual appeal but also sets the tone for the day, influencing everything from the flow of events to the emotional resonance your guests experience.
There are so many designs out there to choose from. Are you an alternative bride? Do you go for something more classic? Or have you dreamed of something more glamorous?
Well, let Pinterest become your best friend.
Pinterest, pinterest, pinterest!
Pinterest happens to be one of my favorite media platforms. Pinterest is a bride’s best friend because it offers endless wedding inspiration and helps visually organize ideas. From dresses and décor to DIY projects and budget tips, it makes planning easier by revealing your style preferences and serving as a reference for vendors. It’s the ultimate tool for turning wedding dreams into a clear, cohesive vision.
Let me leave you with this...
So while all the dreamy extras can be exciting (and yes, sometimes overwhelming), grounding your planning in the big three — Catering, Florals, and Venue — will make everything else fall into place with ease. Think of CFV as your wedding planning compass. Once those pillars are set, the rest becomes the fun, personal details that make your day uniquely you. You’ve got this — one thoughtful step at a time.
Photo from Pexel
