As we welcome 2023, I want to offer my top 10 tips when you start planning your wedding here in San Jose:

1. Choose a venue: San Jose has a variety of beautiful wedding venues to choose from, including gardens, vineyards, and historic mansions. Consider what type of setting you envision for your wedding and start researching venues that match your style.

2. Book your vendors: Once you have a venue, start booking your other vendors, such as a photographer, videographer, florist, and DJ. San Jose has a range of talented wedding professionals to choose from, so take the time to research and interview multiple options to find the best fit for you.

3. Plan your transportation: Depending on your venue and wedding size, you may need to arrange transportation for you and your guests. Consider hiring a shuttle service or rental cars to ensure that everyone gets to and from the wedding safely.

4. Consider the weather: San Jose can be quite warm during the summer months, so if you're planning a outdoor wedding, make sure to have plenty of water and shade available for your guests. If you're getting married during the cooler months, make sure to have blankets and heaters on hand in case it gets chilly.

5. Take care of the legalities: Don't forget to obtain a marriage license and make sure that your ceremony is officiated by someone who is authorized to perform weddings in California.

6. Plan your rehearsal dinner: The rehearsal dinner is a great opportunity to gather with your wedding party and close family members to celebrate and relax before the big day. Consider booking a restaurant or hosting the event at a private venue.

7. Have a backup plan: It's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as bad weather. Consider what you would do if your outdoor wedding had to be moved indoors, or if you had to adjust your timeline due to unexpected delays.

8. Consider hiring a wedding planner: Planning a wedding can be a huge undertaking, especially if you're trying to do it all yourself. Consider hiring a wedding planner to help you with the logistics and ensure that everything runs smoothly on the big day.

9. Don't be afraid to ask for help: Planning a wedding is a big job, and it's okay to ask for help from friends and family. Delegate tasks to those who are willing to pitch in, and don't be afraid to ask for advice from those who have been through the process before.

10. Relax and enjoy: Finally, try to relax and enjoy the process of planning your wedding. It can be stressful at times, but it's important to take time for yourself and remember what the day is really about – celebrating your love and commitment to each other.