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DIY Wedding Planning Guides – From Rehearsal to Reception

March 2, 2025 by jenni 11 Comments

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Whether you are planning some or all of your wedding yourself, it can feel like you are on an island with no help in sight. To help you navigate this exciting time, we have published a number of free resources from rehearsals to receptions. Here are a selection of Wedding Planning Guides available on An Exciting Day Blog thus far!

Grid of four photos with the upper left of a bride and groom smiling in front of a wood door, upper right of a couple kissing and the woman displaying a ring on her finger, bottom left of a green velvet ring box displaying two wedding bands, and bottom right of a wedding couple kissing under a wood log arbor, and overlay text reading "all inclusive guides to wedding planning".

Planning your wedding yourself can be a rewarding experience, and with the right resources, it can be stress-free too! Explore a variety of helpful guides on An Exciting Day, offering expert tips on everything from creating your own wedding timeline to choosing unique DIY favors, managing your budget, and more. Whether you’re looking for step-by-step checklists, timeline templates, or creative inspiration, these guides will empower you to plan a beautiful, personalized wedding without the extra cost.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.


Newly Engaged Advice

Grid of four photos with the upper left of a woman's hand on a man's suit jacket lapel, upper right of a couple touching foreheads holding their wedding rings towards the camera, bottom left of two men laughing together in an embrace while wearing suits, and bottom right of a couple kissing while wearing wedding attire standing in the middle of people clapping, all with overlay text reading "newly engaged next steps, congratulations!"

Newly Engaged Next Steps

Congratulations on your engagement! Now that the excitement has sunk in, it’s time to focus on your next steps. This blog post offers helpful advice on what to do after saying “yes,” including insuring your engagement ring, hosting an engagement party, and having “the conversation” about your future together. It’s the perfect guide for couples ready to begin planning their wedding and future. Here are your Newly Engaged Next Steps!

“The Conversation”

This one is all about “the conversation” or otherwise known as 10 Important Talking Points Prior to “I Do”. Before walking down the aisle, there are key topics every couple should discuss to ensure a strong, healthy foundation. This blog post highlights 10 crucial talking points—ranging from finances and career goals to parenting and communication styles—that will help you and your partner navigate life together with understanding and clarity. These conversations pave the way for a fulfilling marriage by addressing important expectations and values early on.

Background image of a green velvet ring box open displaying wedding bands sitting atop a green envelope with gold wax seal and a gold metal seal with a wood handle laying on a white paper, with overlay text reading "10 important talking points prior to I Do".

DIY Wedding Planning Guides

Woman in white holding a bouquet next to a man in a blue short sleeve collared shirt, both wearing sandals while standing on a lawn in front of a lake. Overlay words reading "guide to the perfect wedding rehearsal" and "free step by step instructions".

Guide To The Perfect Wedding Rehearsal

Ensure your wedding rehearsal goes smoothly with this detailed Guide to the Perfect Wedding Rehearsal! From practicing the ceremony at the same time as your wedding to tips on making sure everyone arrives on time, this wedding planning guide covers all the essential steps for a flawless rehearsal. You’ll also find expert advice on how to rehearse the processional and recessional, manage ceremony traditions, and keep your wedding party organized for the big day.

The Rehearsal Dinner – FAQs & Answers

Wondering about the details of your Rehearsal Dinner? This blog post covers all the essential questions—who should host, who to invite, when to schedule it, and more. With helpful tips and advice, it ensures that your rehearsal dinner is stress-free and a perfect start to your wedding celebrations. Whether you’re sticking with tradition or adding a personal twist, this guide has you covered!

Glasses of white wine cheering with overlay text reading "the rehearsal dinner" and "hosting 101" and "all the answer to your frequently asked questions around the wedding rehearsal dinner."
Soft pink background with three paper checklists and overlay text reading "best ever wedding planning checklist" and "free pdf download" and "www.anexcitingday.com".

Best Ever Wedding Planning Checklist

From the moment you’re engaged to the week before your wedding, this comprehensive checklist covers all the crucial tasks. It includes timelines for booking vendors, selecting your dress, and preparing for the ceremony, ensuring your wedding day goes off without a hitch. Get your FREE PDF DOWNLOAD for the Best Ever Wedding Planning Checklist straight to your inbox!

A Sample Modern Wedding Day Timeline

From the morning preparations to the final dance, this blog post outlines key moments like the first look, ceremony, reception, and more, while also leaving room for flexibility. A great resource for couples looking to plan a seamless and memorable wedding day! Terms such as “bride” and “groom” are used here generically, however this Sample Modern Wedding Day Timeline welcomes couples of all genders to take inspiration from this sample and make it their own.

Navy blue velvet heels with ribbon ties and white metal flowers adorning the heel set on a wood table with flowers in the background and overlay text reading "sample modern wedding day timeline".
Man in a grey jacket, jeans, white shirt, and purple bow tie kissing the forehead of a woman in a white gown holding a bouquet of flowers standing in front of a wood building with arched doorway and stone exterior to the entry, with overlay text reading "traditional wedding day timeline".

A Sample Traditional Wedding Day Timeline

Looking for a traditional wedding day flow? This wedding planning guide provides a step-by-step Traditional Wedding Day Timeline to help you plan every moment, from the bride’s preparations to the last dance at the reception. It covers key events like the ceremony, family photos, and reception highlights, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable celebration. Perfect for couples embracing classic wedding traditions!

2025 Wedding Trends

Get ahead of the curve with the latest Wedding Trends for 2025! From stunning glass atriums and greenhouse venues to retro glam themes and high-design micro weddings, this blog post covers the top trends to inspire your big day. Plus, explore fun guest experiences like interactive audio guestbooks, like those available at After The Tone, and flower bars. Whether you’re looking to personalize your wedding or embrace unique trends, these ideas will ensure your celebration stands out!

After The Tone Discount – Use code ANEXCITINGDAY15 for 15% off!

Four images with overlay text reading "2025 Wedding Trends" and images including flowers, table settings, wedding ceremonies, yard games, and greenhouses.
Three photos with the top of pink raffle tickets scattered on a pink background, bottom left photo of a white rotary phone with flowers surrounding it, and bottom right of a polaroid camera with a photo developing out of it, with overlay text reading "engaging wedding guest entertainment - activities and experiences that extend beyond the dance floor!"

Wedding Guest Entertainment Ideas

Keep your guests entertained and engaged with these creative Wedding Guest Entertainment Ideas! From interactive games like trivia and photo booths to DIY craft stations and live performers, this blog post offers unique suggestions to add fun and excitement to your big day. Perfect for couples looking to make their wedding celebration unforgettable!

Unique Wedding Favors

Make your wedding favors truly unforgettable with these Unique Wedding Favors! This blog post features a range of creative options, from custom artwork and mini succulents to artisanal treats and personalized keepsakes. Whether you want something fun, meaningful, or eco-friendly, these one-of-a-kind favor ideas will leave your guests with a smile and a lasting memory of your special day.

Background of four images in a grid with the upper left being pink and yellow soaps, upper right plant propagation, bottom left lego figurine, and bottom right brown paper package tied up with string, with overlay text reading "fun + unique wedding favor ideas" and other text.

Conclusion

I hope there is something you were able to take away from these DIY Wedding Planning Guides. Remember to Pin this post for when you are ready for next steps.

Grid of four photos all showing wedding rings in boxes, and overlay text reading "all inclusive guides to wedding planning".
Trio of black and white wedding photos and overlay text reading "all inclusive guides to wedding planning".
Two different wedding ceremony images and overlay text reading "all inclusive guides to wedding planning".
Bride and groom about to kiss while standing on the shores of a lake and overlay text reading "all inclusive guides to wedding planning".

Real Weddings – I am looking for couples ready to share their wedding day story and photos on the blog. Please complete this form, or email me at jenni@anexcitingday.com to be featured in my next ​REAL WEDDING​ post! 

Vendor Spotlight – Are you a local Northern California wedding vendor? Interested in free marketing? Please email me at jenni@anexcitingday.com to be the next ​VENDOR SPOTLIGHT​ on the blog. 

Join my email list for a monthly newsletter & blog post updates! 

Rust colored text reading "xoxo Jenni" with light Tiffany blue background.

Filed Under: Wedding Advice Tagged With: diy wedding, engagement advice, wedding advice, wedding planning, wedding rehearsal, wedding trends

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jenny

    March 27, 2025 at 5:31 pm

    So much good info here! I especially love the unique wedding favors.

    Reply
  2. kirbi

    March 27, 2025 at 7:48 pm

    I love all the bold color inspiration here! That emerald especially.

    Reply
  3. Savannah

    March 27, 2025 at 8:26 pm

    I wish I had all this when I was planning my wedding! What amazing resources!

    Reply
  4. Haley

    April 17, 2025 at 5:52 pm

    What a wealth of info!! So helpful!!

    Reply
  5. Rachel

    April 17, 2025 at 7:47 pm

    What great information for any couple planning their special day! I absolutely love the checklist!

    Reply
  6. Alisha

    April 17, 2025 at 8:42 pm

    You have the best wedding info!

    Reply
  7. Lindi

    April 17, 2025 at 10:31 pm

    This is such a great compilation of good advice with action steps! As a mother to four teenagers, I’m sure I’ll be referring back to this post for the next decade!

    Reply
  8. Annabelle

    April 18, 2025 at 12:54 am

    This is a GOLDMINE of info for couples. Wedding planning can be sooo overwhelming and these resources are so needed! Thank you, Jenni!

    Reply
  9. Lisa

    April 18, 2025 at 2:22 am

    This is a great wedding guide and checklist!

    Reply
  10. Kelly Letalien

    April 18, 2025 at 11:25 am

    Love it! One stop shop for all things wedding related! I wish this had been available when I was planning my wedding 25 years ago.

    Reply
  11. Hayley

    April 18, 2025 at 2:31 pm

    These are great ideas!

    Reply

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Today is an exciting day!  So glad you found our blog.  I’m Jenni, wife and mama, events professional and lover of all things wedding.  Follow along for stories on real weddings, event tips, diy projects, and more!  Read more about me here.

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