Wedding Planning 101: Answers to the Most Common Questions Brides Ask

Note: Wedding costs can vary greatly by city, region, and year. Always use local vendor estimates to build the most accurate budget for your area.

At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique in Charlotte, we meet brides at all stages of the planning journey—and one thing’s always true: the earlier you feel informed, the more confident (and joyful!) your planning experience will be. Whether you're recently engaged or knee-deep in spreadsheets, this guide answers some of the most common wedding planning questions we hear in the boutique.

J. Major's Bride Jen Celebrating

How much does the average wedding cost?

The average wedding in the U.S. costs between $28,000 and $35,000. In Charlotte, NC, the typical wedding budget lands somewhere between $30,000 and $32,000, depending on factors like venue, guest count, and overall style. Remember this is just an average. Small, intimate weddings or backyard celebrations may come in well below that, while larger or more formal weddings with full service vendors can be significantly more.

What should be included in a wedding budget?

When building your wedding budget, try to account for:

• Venue & Catering – 40–50%

• Attire – 8–10% (includes your dress, accessories, and alterations)

• Photography & Videography – 10–15%

• Entertainment (DJ or Band) – 5–10%

• Flowers & Decor – 8–10%

• Wedding Planner or Coordinator – 5–10%

• Stationery & Invites – 2–3%

• Transportation – 2–3%

• Miscellaneous – 5% (gifts, gratuities, beauty services, and unexpected costs)

And if you’re planning a honeymoon right after the big day, don’t forget to create a separate travel budget!

How early should I start planning my wedding?

12 to 18 months is ideal. This gives you time to secure your dream venue, book key vendors, and, very importantly, shop for your dress with plenty of time to spare. Designer gowns at J. Major’s typically take 6 - 9 months to arrive, and you'll want time for fittings and alterations.

If you're planning in a shorter timeframe, don’t stress. Many boutiques (including ours!) carry off-the-rack or sample gowns for quick timelines, and some vendors offer expedited packages.

What are the first steps in wedding planning?

Once you’re engaged, here’s a checklist to get started:

1. Set a Budget – Decide how much you can realistically spend and who’s contributing.

2. Create a Guest List – Even a rough number will help with venue searching.

3. Choose a Season or Wedding Date – This will affect availability and pricing.

4. Book Your Venue – Lock in the space to officially start your vendor search.

5. Hire a Planner (Optional) – A full-service planner or even a day-of coordinator can help make the process smoother.

Once you’ve done these five, you’ll be ready to start shopping for your dress and securing other vendors like your photographer, florist, and caterer.

How do I choose the right wedding venue?

Start with your style and guest count. Ask yourself:

• Do I want an indoor, outdoor, or hybrid venue?

• Do I prefer rustic charm, modern minimalism, or a romantic garden vibe?

• Will this venue comfortably hold our guest list?

• Does it offer any amenities (tables, chairs, linens, day-of coordination)?

• Is the location easy for guests to travel to?

Charlotte offers a wide range of stunning venues—from uptown rooftops and industrial warehouses to cozy countryside estates. Touring multiple venues is smart, and remember—booking your venue often helps you lock in your wedding date, which affects your whole planning timeline.

Let J. Major’s Be Your First Step Toward “I Do”

No matter where you are in the planning process, we’re here to help you feel confident and celebrated. Visit J. Major’s Bridal Boutique in South End, Charlotte, to explore designer gowns in a welcoming, size-inclusive space. Book your appointment today and let our experienced stylists help you say yes to the dress!