The best place to start is: budget. Sit down with your partner, families (if applicable), and figure out how much everyone is willing to contribute to your special day. This number will affect every decision and purchase you make, so be sure to work out your budget before you start making any plans.Yes, it can be a personal conversation, but it is better to get it out of the way at the very beginning! :)  The next appropriate steps would be: setting a date, selecting a venue, and thinking about how many guests you can realistically invite to your big, or small, day. Having incorporated your budget, ideal date, and preferred venue or location into the equation.