The Perfect Time to plan your Wedding is now

Picture this: a summer day in the Swiss Alps, your loved ones gathered, the perfect light, the perfect location – and you, right in the middle of it all. Moments like these begin with thoughtful planning. And right now, in the golden glow of autumn, is the perfect time to start planning your dream wedding.

Why? Because starting early not only secures the best vendors, but also allows you to move through the planning phase with ease and excitement. In this post, I’ll show you how to plan strategically and when to tackle each step.

First Look of the bride & groom. Photo: Michael Christen

Why now?

For most wedding vendors, peak season ends in September. That means many venues, photographers, and planners now have more availability for consultations – and you’ll likely get quicker responses than during the busy summer months.

• Top vendors are booked fast: Popular wedding venues and service providers are often booked 12–24 months in advance – especially for popular summer dates.

• More choice, less stress: Early planning means you won’t have to choose between “still available” and “not quite our style.”

• Budget-friendly planning: Starting early allows you to compare offers and avoid surprise costs.

• Planning for 2027 is realistic: If you begin planning for 2027 this autumn, you’re perfectly on time. Most couples start too late – and end up compromising.

• Budget and vacation plans are often set: After summer, many couples have clarity on finances and time off – making it easier to choose a date.

• Autumn = inspiration season: The calm, cozy atmosphere is ideal for creating moodboards, visiting venues, and exploring style ideas.

  
  

The perfect Wedding Planning Timeline

Here’s a quick overview of what to tackle when:

Photo: Nadine Rado - Fotoag.ch

12–18 Months Before

• Define guest list & budget

• Create your wedding moodboard

• Book your wedding planner

• Reserve your venue – popular locations are often booked 2 years in advance

• Send out Save-the-Date cards

• Book key vendors (photographers, videographers, officiants, florists, musicians)

• Choose your wedding dress & suit

6–12 Months Before

• Create your wedding website & send out invitations

• Choose your rings

• Organize accommodation for guests

3–6 Months Before

• Schedule tastings & order your wedding cake

• Finalize seating plan & timeline

• Book hair & makeup trial

• Practice your first dance

You’ll find the full timeline in my blog post: "The Ultimate Timeline for Your Wedding Planning: When to do What".

Bonus Tip: Flexibility Is a Luxury

Couples who plan early can be more flexible with international guests, seasonal flowers, or unique venues. You’ll have time for creative ideas, cultural touches, and personal highlights – without last-minute panic.

Conclusion: Early Planning = Stress-Free Celebration

October marks the start of cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and autumn walks – but it’s also the perfect time to begin planning your wedding. If you start now, you’ll enjoy a stylish, personal, and relaxed celebration. Of course, weddings can be planned in a shorter timeframe too – it’s all a matter of flexibility 😉

And if you’d like support: I’d be honored to be by your side – with passion, experience, and a trusted network of wedding professionals.

Photo: Priscilla Moura - Johanna Unternährer