Which Type of Wedding Planning Tool Should You Actually Use?

First comes love, then comes… planning! From buying a wedding dress to choosing the most delicious wedding cake flavor and a *dreamy* wedding bouquet, staying organized and on task throughout the planning process is a feat in and of itself. But before you start to get overwhelmed, know that wedding planners are here to help. While traditionally this means that you would hire a person or team to help you with the process, you can now choose between a wedding planner specialist, a paper wedding planner, a wedding planning website and even a wedding planning app (there is an app for everything, after all). Need help deciding which one is the ONE for you? We talked with five real-life brides who spilled on what they absolutely loved — and wished they’d done differently — during the planning process. Scroll down to see what they had to say!

1. Paper Wedding Planner: “A wedding planner was not in my budget, so I needed to find the next best thing,” said Kaitlyn Hodgins. “I wanted something to help me stay organized through the months of planning and the dozens of vendors. I felt like having a tangible binder full of wedding details rather than a website planning tool made more sense for my personality. You have to keep track of SO much when planning, and now that all lives in ONE place in my beautiful Southern Weddings binder. I love that this binder not only helps me stay organized, but it also has a monthly checklist that keeps me accountable and makes sure that my planning is on time. The binder also lists out some very important and specific questions to ask each vendor when choosing the right one, and I would definitely not have thought about them without its help. Its budget tracker is also a must-have! One of the most important things when planning is making sure that you’re staying on budget, and this paper planner helps you do just that. There really isn’t much to not like. It covers everything from inspiration to budgeting, how to tip your vendors, the day of schedule, traditions and more.” (Photo via Southern Weddings Magazine)

2. Wedding Planner App: “I used the Wedding Planning by WeddingWire app and their website at the same time,” said Ruth Smith. “It was super helpful having both during my wedding planning because I would work on a few things at home, but always have it accessible on my phone. I also really loved the integrated guest list and ability to add your own vendors. If I had to pick something I would change, it would be when I was using the app, the reset button for budgeting was right next to the email button and it caused a few problems at the beginning. Overall, I totally recommend it for the girl-on-the-go.”

3. Full Service Wedding Planner: “Our wedding planning was a somewhat unique situation, as my husband and I were both starting busy new jobs and planning a wedding out of state,” said Martha Kirst. “We had just moved to California from North Carolina and were planning a wedding in St. Louis. We knew in order to pull off everything on the big day we were going to need a lot of help! And we both knew we’d feel more comfortable with a team that could guide us through the whole process, rather than just a day-of person. Getting a wedding planner for us was one of the easiest and best decisions we made in the wedding process. It’s definitely not for every couple, but for us, it made all the difference. She helped me materialize a vision and theme for the day which I would have never been bold (or organized) enough to pull off on my own. She also made finding all of the vendors much easier as she had experience with many and could recommend people/companies who would fit with our personalities and vision.”

“Using a planner also allowed us more time to focus on the big picture and make sure we were including what was most meaningful to us — for example, while our planner was working on negotiating contracts between the DJ and venue, my husband and I spent hours drafting and tweaking our own ceremony and vows. The last and perhaps most important benefit of a wedding planner was that I did not have to worry on my wedding day! I didn’t have to think about what time the flowers were coming, where the DJ was or how to seat the guests. Instead, I got to focus on spending time with my bridesmaids and family before the wedding and with my husband and everyone during the reception!”

4. Online Wedding Planner: “When I was planning our wedding I used TheKnot.com, which allows you to set up a page for free. It also has lots of inspiration and last-minute details,” said Mallory Moore. “You can give people information about your wedding location, registries, wedding party details, accommodations and more on your website. What I really love about this site — besides all the good resources — is that you can also search for vendors within your area or wedding destination and see their ratings. I even got my idea for my hair on the site!”

5. Day-Of Coordinator: “A day-of planner is kind of like having the best of both worlds if you already have your ideas in mind,” said Katie-Ann Roach. “I felt like I didn’t need any outside advice for my wedding since I felt like I found some great vendors and booked them on my own. I had already found my dress and veil with my family, where a wedding planner would usually help with all of these things. Same goes for the wedding cake tasting. Although that’s all great, this day is about you and your family, so I only wanted someone to help with day-of coordination and coordinating with the timeline for vendors. It seems like once you hire one great vendor, they all kind of recommend each other and it all falls into place. I really enjoyed having Tia from Erin McLean Events to set up the timeline of events and coordinate that with the vendors. It took the stress off me so I didn’t have to confirm anything or develop my own timeline. We did meet with her a few times and emailed back and forth several times to go over things, so it was in the small scheme of things a wedding planner, just not in its entirety!”

6. Wedding Planner (Family and Friends Edition): “We did not really use any kind of wedding planner,” said Gelly Fenton. “We had an incredibly personal ceremony. It was at my parents’ farm, and everyone involved in making it happen was close to us. Our officiant was our dear friend, a family friend who owns a bakery made our cake, our florist was another family friend, the meat came off my parents’ farm and my whole family pitched in for decorations and setup. My sister, who was also my matron of honor, made sure everything came together the day of and helped organize everyone. I had a planner book, but by the end, everything had gone out the window because it was such special circumstances and a lot of the pre-planning wedding things in the book just didn’t apply to us. We never had to consult with venues, or jump through a lot of the logistical hoops that many couples do. Honestly it was more meaningful to us that the people we loved (and who love us!) helped make it happen rather than people we didn’t know. We decided early on that if we were going to have a wedding, we were going to incorporate everyone who helped get us to that point. It was a lot of work, but I think the entire family came out of the wedding even stronger and more united. And I love that we made it happen that way. It was perfect.”

Your big day is just starting! Check out all things Brit + Co Weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for more beautiful + creative wedding inspo.

We're officially one week into Scorpio season — are you feeling it? Is your intuition heightened? Are you super sensitive and a bit more introverted? It’s a good time to slow down, feel your feelings, and tap into the inner wisdom of your soul. Scorpio is often misinterpreted, perhaps because this season coincides with Halloween, the decreasing daylight in the northern hemisphere, or simply Scorpio’s intensity and power. A key word for Scorpio is transformation, which is never easy.

Think of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis — its time in the cramped and dark cocoon. That primordial, gooey existence is anything but comfortable. Transformation requires time, a willingness to experience discomfort, and patience before emerging as a beautiful butterfly.

Ajaila Walker

Scorpio is one of the healing signs in the zodiac, and while the Sun is in Scorpio, we can make great strides toward healing ourselves and helping others. There’s nothing superficial about Scorpio — it demands depth, wanting to uncover layers and expose what’s hiding. That’s why it’s a great time to focus on your inner world and subconscious mind. All forms of therapy are beneficial during Scorpio season, but psychotherapy is especially powerful if that's an option for you.

Eager to know what this transformational energy has to offer? Read on for your weekly horoscope to understand how this can impact your sun and rising sign!

​Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope

Eugene Lisyuk

The New Moon in Scorpio occurs on November 1 at 9 degrees of Scorpio. You'll want to check your birth chart to see where 9 degrees of Scorpio falls — this is the area of your life where you can experience transformation and growth. New Moons are powerful times to plant seeds for future growth, to dream and plan for the coming month. Take time to reflect on what truly matters during this period of darkness and inward focus.

Yuliia Tretynychenko

Mars, the planet of action and determination, has been opposite Pluto, the planet of transformation, for months. Both Mars and Pluto co-rule Scorpio, creating an intense and volatile energy. This opposition becomes exact again on November 3 and 4. Use this energy to propel yourself in a new direction and honor your true self. Strength and focus can harness this intensity for personal breakthroughs, but be cautious in making impulsive decisions during this time — on the global stage, tensions may rise, and there could be heightened aggression.

Sam Lion

Adding to this turbulent energy, Mercury, the planet of communication and learning, leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius on November 2. As Mercury exits Scorpio, it forms a beneficial trine to Mars and a sextile to Pluto. This is a powerful opportunity for words to contribute to healing, so take care in how you communicate. Be mindful of the power your words hold, especially as Sagittarius can be blunt and outspoken. While Mercury is in Sagittarius until January 9, focus on expanding your consciousness, learning new skills, and broadening your horizons.

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Ashley Singerling

  • November 1 — New Moon in Scorpio
  • November 2 — Mercury enters Sagittarius
  • November 3-4 — Mars and Pluto opposition becomes exact

Read Your Horoscope Based on Your Sun and Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You’re being asked to dig deep into your subconscious this week. Keep your eyes and ears open for messages from dreams or moments of creativity. Meditation or solitude may reveal powerful realizations. If you feel the need to make a major life change, be sure your decisions come from the heart. You’re on the cusp of a creative breakthrough, but make sure your actions are driven by authenticity.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 22 – May 21)

Relationships are in focus for you. This is a great week for couples therapy or deep, transformative conversations with your partner. Be willing to make changes that benefit your relationships, home, and career. Your sensitivity may be heightened, so incorporate self-care and self-love into any changes you make. Don’t shy away from this potential for growth — there’s tremendous opportunity for profound shifts.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Good fortune and harmony are possible, but luck won’t just fall into your lap — you need to be proactive. This could show up in your relationships with others or in your relationship with yourself. Kindness, equality, and fairness are key to success. Be cautious around people exhibiting aggressive behavior. You’ll receive back what you give out, so practice kindness and ensure you’re approaching things with fairness and balance.

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Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You prefer to avoid conflict, but this week you’ll have the chance to step out of your comfort zone. You don’t have to be confrontational, but a bit of assertiveness will help you move toward your goals. The seeds you plant during this New Moon will grow stronger if you add passion and creativity. Follow your intuition, especially when making important decisions. Your dreams need a touch of energy and action.

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Leo (July 23 – August 22)

The Mars-Pluto opposition has likely stirred up some drama in your life. Have you mustered the courage to start something new? If not, this week offers an opportunity to fully step into your authentic self and begin a new chapter. Don’t hold back, but be prepared for uncharted territory. Your relationships, particularly with yourself, may need a refresh. Self-love and self-care are essential as you embark on these transformations. You might even consider sprucing up your home or making a move.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Career growth is in focus this week, but you’ll need to find a balance between your home life and work life. You may feel the urge to do more in both areas, but it’s crucial to stay grounded. Pay attention to details and avoid overindulgence. A balance between home and work will lead to the best results — be sure to tend to both areas without letting one consume the other.

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Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Your finances and values are the focus this week. Now is the perfect time to ensure your financial life is in order. Meet with a financial planner or make sure your will is up to date. This planning will give you peace of mind and reduce future stress. Once Mercury moves into Sagittarius on November 2, you’ll feel freer to have fun and pursue adventure, knowing that your financial security is taken care of.

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Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Your power and determination will only grow as the week progresses. Use this time to tap into your inner authority and work toward concrete goals. There’s likely to be movement in your career, but it won’t happen overnight. Patience and sustained effort are required. Cultivate joy and focus on long-term goals — there’s no rush, but steady progress will lead to great results.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mercury entering your sign on November 2 invites expansion and learning. If you’ve been waiting to start a new project, learn a new skill, or expand your understanding of the universe, now is the time. Subjects like spirituality and philosophy will be easier to grasp during this time. Be mindful, though — your blunt communication style could come off as caustic, so take a breath before you speak.

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Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Mental well-being should be a priority. Use this time to focus on learning and honing your skills. Your approach to life and work is inspiring to others. If you’ve been dealing with self-doubt, discard any negative self-talk and practice self-compassion. You have a natural ability to teach others, so don’t hesitate to share your knowledge with those who might be facing something similar to your experiences.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

This week focuses on your community and your relationship with like-minded people. Group learning and activities will be more impactful than solo efforts. Mercury in Sagittarius from November 2 will encourage you to learn through travel and adventure. Something exciting and transformative is on the horizon — seize the opportunity for growth through connection with others.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

It’s time to focus on your physical health. The energy of this week will make it easier to start a health regimen and stick to it. While you may become more serious about your health, don’t push yourself too hard. Take small, steady steps to make lasting changes. As the week progresses, you’ll feel more confident and enthusiastic about these positive changes to your well-being.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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So you have a shiny new diamond on your left hand; congrats! Now that the bubbly has been popped and the news spread, it’s time to get to the fun part of planning. Over the next few months you’ll be tasked with everything from picking out the perfect linens to finding a DJ who will bring it on the dance floor. With so many big decisions ahead of you, we’re here (just like a trusty bridesmaid!) to help with Real Brides Ask, a new series that tackles your toughest bridal questions.

“I just got engaged! What are the first items I need to tackle when it comes to wedding planning?” — Natasha L., New Orleans, LA

First off, congrats! Soak in that new engagement glow and ride out the excitement — this is your BIG moment. Once that sinks in for a bit, turn to us for what’s next. We tapped experts to give you all the insight you need to kick-start your wedding planning without a hitch. Kellee Khalil, founder of modern wedding site Lover.ly, and Josh Spiegel, creative director of NYC event planning firm Birch Event Design, share their must-know tips. Before you start tackling your to-do list, read on!

1. Insure your bling. After taking lots of #selfies and showing off your ring, talk with your partner about insuring it. “It’s definitely not as exciting as the proposal itself, but you just received a very symbolic and pricey piece of jewelry, and you don’t want to be one of the horror stories I hear every year about someone losing their ring,” says Khalil. “Getting the ring properly sized by the jeweler who created it should be no problem, and there are plenty of ways to insure your ring, such as adding it to an existing insurance policy (ask if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance company could cover it).”

2. Pick the date. Before you begin reaching out to potential vendors you’ve been shamelessly stalking, sit down with your spouse-to-be to set the cadence for your event. “The date is the most important element at this stage because you need to figure out what date works for both families, and it will surely affect what venues/vendors are available to work with you,” says Khalil.

3. Dig into the bigger details. The months to come will include a whole ‘lotta decision making, but now is *not* the time to delve into the nitty-gritty. Focus on the larger items ahead of you, like the guest list so you know what venue you’ll need and be able to provide a potential headcount to vendors, says Spiegel. Then, from there, you can settle on the venue and slowly pencil in the smaller items. “Map out the day and draw in the lines later,” suggests Spiegel.

4. Gather your resources. To prepare yourself for a seamless planning season, gather all the inspo you need in one place. Start with your Instagram feed or wedding magazines for visual references, recommends Spiegel. Then, consider bookmarking a more structured guide, like this free 12-month wedding checklist, to keep your long-term vision in mind. Pro tip: As you tackle each to-do, be sure to build a team that’s supportive of you. “Surround yourself with pleasant vendors that make you excited about your big day. It’s a stressful process but should also be enjoyable, so it is nice to be surrounded by people you trust,” says Spiegel.

4. Enjoy your engagement! Committing to a lifetime with the one you love should be anxiety-free! Treat your actions accordingly. “Once the date is settled (hopefully it’s far in advance so you have some time to plan), relax and enjoy being engaged. Wedding planning is stressful, so take this time for yourself and your partner before you start the journey of a lifetime,” adds Khalil.

Where are you in your planning process. Let us know! Then, share your burning bridal questions with us @BritandCo using hashtag #WeddingWoes for a chance to have them featured in our next post.

(Photos via Getty; Illustrations via San Trieu/Brit + Co)

I turn to Instagram for mainly two things: hilariously adorable pet videos to share with my daughter before bedtime — a nightly ritual we started a year back — and a steady stream of home decor inspiration. Having studied interior design and spent years writing about stunning spaces, my love for beautiful interiors runs deep. The home decor bloggers I follow offer a mix of styles and experiences, from cozy vintage vibes to refined and sophisticated homes and rooms. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space for the season or simply find joy in nesting at home, there’s a little something from everyone here to inspire you. Happy decorating!

PrettyOnFridays

PrettyOnFridays

Writer Deema Tabbara Lopez's Friday newsletter, Merci Ktir, offers a glimpse into all the pretty things bringing her joy each week. Her home is so cozy, filled with vintage charm and lovely DIYs and how-tos (and stunning paint colors!). You'll want to dive into her feed for all the inspiration this fall.

ThisHouse5000

ThisHouse5000

Home decor enthusiast Elena Lohse and her handyman husband have been renovating their 1935 home in Toronto’s west end, the Junction, for the past 4+ years. Her style is clean, fresh, and never boring. I love her DIY videos, and her blog follows their travels too through a unique design lens.

Erin Conway Kismet House

Kismet House

For a masters in warm, cozy traditional spaces, follow Erin and Matthew of Kismet House who share tips and tricks for creating homes that feel unique and full of character.

Michael P.H. Clifford

a1000xBetter

Designer Kirsten Blazek creates rooms that are authentic, stylish, and so comfortable. She really thinks about spaces you want to live in. I'm still swooning over this kitchen of hers that we featured. Her first book A1000xBetter: A Rebel By Designshowcases her eclectic interiors and love of vintage treasures along with her design inspirations and tips.

Banda Property

𝗦𝗮 𝗚𝗿𝗮̂𝗰𝗲

Principal designer Ithabeleng Mothabeng has such a talent for creating stunning interiors. She blends a timeless elegance with modern touches and the result is always gorgeous and sophisticated.

Sam Arneson

Sam Arneson Home

Sam Arneson, an LA-based realtor, brings a thoughtful approach to design with a focus on sustainability and slow living. Her soulful feed is full of inspiration, from mid-century modern gems to cozy woodsy cabins.

OEZLEM OEZSOY

OEZLEM OEZSOY

This Hamburg, Germany-based photographer and home decor enthusiast is known for her sophisticated eye for vintage and mid-century decor, creating beautifully curated neutral spaces.

LEMIEUX ET CIE

The Organic Bubble Vase, Théophile Candle Holder, and Cadoret Bowl

Christiane Lemieux

NYC-based Christiane Lemieux is an author, designer, entrepreneur and the founder of LEMIEUX ET CIE, a luxury home furnishings brand. If you're looking for elevated interiors with a smidge of fantasy and the unexpected, her feed is the place to be. She was also the co-host and a judge on Ellen’s Design Challenge on HGTV and is a regular guest on MSNBC.

Some other favorites to look out for:

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

With Halloweenon the horizon, we have to ask the question: Have your toddlers made up their minds about what they want to be for Halloween? If not, there's still plenty of time to put together one of these DIY Halloween costumes inspired by their favorite characters/animals/foods/things. Just choose from any one of these 31 DIY kids costumes that you can whip up in a flash. No tricks here!

Brit + Co

Toy Story

A quick trip to Target will sort you out for everything you need to make all of the add-ons.

Brit + Co

Sesame Street

You can DIY the whole duo's ensemble with your faux fur stash to whip up these muppety, feather-filled family and kids Halloween costumes.

Brit + Co

Top Gun

All flight crew on deck! Code 9! Code 9!

Brit + Co

Super Girl

With just one yard of fabric, you can turn your toddler into the most stylish superhero in town.

Brit + Co

Little Lana Del Rey

Your little sunshine needs cute kids Halloween costumes to choose from! Simply grab a summer dress and add a dramatic and colorful flower crown.

Brit + Co

Constellation Costume

Dig deep into the closet for the snazzy party outfit, and add some cardstock cutout stars to your little space lover.

Brit + Co

Morton Salt Girl

All you need for this one is a trip to the grocery store for a cheap umbrella and some salt.

Brit + Co

Usher and Popcorn Bucket Costume

This cute DIY idea is so easy you'll be tempted to decorate your baby carrier for Thanksgiving and Christmas! Who knew kids Halloween costumes could be so functional?

Brit + Co

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Costume

"She's an icon. She's a legend. She is the moment" best describes this cute DIY baby costume!

Brit + Co

Lightning and Thunder Cloud Costume

Your little baby will look adorable in their cloud onesie! To go the extra mile, attach

Brit + Co

Winnie The Pooh Costumes

These fun DIY costumes are great for the entire family! Your little one is sure to get a kick out of dressing up as piglet.

Brit + Co

Finding Dory

Bust through that supply of leftover crafting felt, and add big blue eyes and some fins to a well-used T-shirt.

Brit + Co

Sandy + John

Put this at the top of your kids Halloween costumes list if you're looking to match your little man while you hit the 'hood going door to door? Jeans and Converse will save the day, and the jacket is likely needed anyway.

Brit + Co

Beetlejuice

Family costumes = the best costumes. Rope your kid into this seasonal fave.

Brit + Co

Cat in the Hat + Goldfish

Bring this literary classic to life with a little prep time and some orange fabric.

Brit + Co

Saved By the Bell

Thank goodness you saved the tropical shirts from your last vacation, because now everyone can get in on the look.

Brit + Co

Dinosaur

This is the kind of costume that will become a playroom staple, so you might as well do it and save yourself the time later.

Brit + Co

Trolls

It's time to raid your club kid friends' wig collections.

Brit + Co

Rosie the Riveter

Yes she can! #girlpower

Brit + Co

Amelia Earhart

Surely you can find some goggles and a hat at the last minute.

Lovely Indeed

Baby Astronaut

While the jumpsuit totally makes the look, a good jumper will do the trick. For the patches? Amazon for the win.

Studio DIY

Donut

You can transform into your favorite sweet treat with an inner tube and foam hair curlers (genius, we know!). If sprinkles aren’t your thing, you can always go with chocolate glazed.

Oh Happy Day

Snail

There’s no fussing with masks or itchy wigs. This costume is basically just a backpack and should help keep complaints to a minimum (hopefully). Just try not to leave a snail trail on your way through the neighborhood.

Oh Happy Day

Cloud

If you’re looking for a totally original costume, this is about as unique as it gets. Chances are you probably won’t see another cloud walking around on Halloween.

Oh Happy Day

Moonrise Kingdom

These getups look great on their own, but paired together they are complete perfection.

Delia Creates

Pineapple

Show your love for the sweet tropical fruit with this simple no-sew costume.

Oh Happy Day

Mr. Rogers

Accessorize with a few hand puppets or splurge on vintage ones from Etsy.

Studio DIY

School Supplies Family Costume

Any onesie can be pink with some dye packets, and a permanent marker will cover the rest.

Week99er

Finding Nemo

The best part about this one is that it has the option of being gender neutral. The tutu is between you and the kid.

The House That Lars Built

Three Blind Mice

HOLD. THE. PHONE. There is no better group ensemble for the gang from your birthing group. The concept works as they got older as well.

The House That Lars Built

The Giving Tree

With five mins left before they head off to school, throw some overalls on them and whip up this sign.

Share your Halloween DIYs with us @BritandCo!

This article has been updated.