Kelsey Anderson & Joey Graziadei’s wedding: Why venue locking is the first big decision and what the couple is quietly prioritising

Kelsey Anderson is beginning the next phase of wedding planning and has offered a clear picture of what lies ahead for her and fiancé Joey Graziadei. While the couple is making progress, they are also firm about taking their time and keeping the process manageable and meaningful.

Speaking to PEOPLE at the inaugural TikTok Awards, hosted by La La Anthony at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles on December 18, Anderson said finalising a wedding venue is the step she is most looking forward to in the coming year. The 27-year-old confirmed that she and Graziadei, 30, have already visited a few locations and are excited to move closer to making a decision.

She described venue selection as a key milestone and indicated that narrowing down options is a priority as they enter the new year. While planning is underway, Anderson made it clear that the process is moving at a pace that suits both of them.

Despite advancing in the planning process, Anderson said she is not setting rigid expectations. According to her, the most important requirement for the wedding day is simple: that both she and Graziadei are happy.

She explained that she is open to choices that reflect what works best for them as a couple. Rather than focusing on fixed demands, Anderson said her approach is guided by shared comfort and enjoyment. This mindset, she noted, shapes how decisions are being made at every stage.

Anderson has previously indicated that the wedding is being planned with 2026 in mind. At Heidi Klum’s Halloween party in New York City on October 31, she reiterated that wedding planning remains a priority for that year.

Among the major tasks on her list is purchasing her ceremony gown. She confirmed that dress shopping is one of the top items she is looking forward to as preparations continue.

In May, Anderson spoke to Sports Illustrated Swimsuit about the overall look and feel she envisions for the wedding. She described the aesthetic as timeless, explaining that she wants the celebration to look appropriate even decades from now.

She also stressed that the wedding should reflect both partners equally. Anderson noted that while wedding planning often leans toward one person taking control, she wants the event to represent her and Graziadei together. Her goal, she said, is balance, with both having an equal presence in how the day comes together.

Anderson and Graziadei, who became engaged during the season 28 finale of The Bachelor that aired last year, have repeatedly stated that they do not want to rush into marriage. Graziadei is also known as the champion of Dancing with the Stars.

In January, Anderson told PEOPLE that although their relationship moved quickly, they are intentionally slowing down when it comes to wedding planning. She pointed out that the engagement happened within two months, and that speed has made them more aware of the importance of taking time to know each other fully.

She said the couple wants the planning process to be thoughtful rather than stressful. According to Anderson, enjoying the experience of choosing what matters most to them is just as important as the final event itself.

The wedding is being planned with the help of Josiah Carr and Justin McGregor of SAMKOMA. The planners shared in September that the couple connected with them through recommendations from previous clients.

Carr and McGregor described Anderson and Graziadei as kind and said they are excited to be part of their planning journey. They also expressed appreciation for working with clients who value the process and approach it with sincerity.

As planning continues, Anderson and Graziadei appear focused on clarity rather than speed, prioritising shared decisions, balance, and a calm approach as they prepare for their future together.