Most couples start with the dress. That’s the expensive way.

Book in this order:

1. Venue — dates disappear first. Everything else orbits this.

2. Photographer — the good ones take 8–12 weddings a year. They fill before florists do.

3. Catering — tied to the venue’s kitchen rules. Confirm this before you fall in love with a menu.

4. Florals — once the room and the light are known, flowers have a job.

5. Music — ceremony and reception are two different bookings. Treat them that way.

6. Beauty — hair and makeup. Book the trial on a weekday, not the week of.

7. Attire — dress and suits last among the big tickets. Alterations need time, not a panic.

8. Planner / coordinator — if you skipped one, hire a month-of coordinator at minimum.

Northgate is built as those tabs. Couples unlock booking. Vendors get listed on the tab that matches the job they actually do.