Q&A with American Idol's Pia Toscano on Planning Her Wedding

As the big day draws nearer and nearer, Pia gives us a little insight on what the experience has been like thus far, as well as shares some of her stunning engagement photos with us. Read her answers and view the pictures below!

Inside Weddings: How long will you have been engaged when you get married? How many months of that were spent planning the big day?

Pia Toscano: We have been engaged since November 18th, 2015, so our engagement would be a little less than one year and two months. We decided nine months ago to start planning our wedding.

IW: Was there anything particularly surprising or unexpected about the task of wedding planning?

PT: We are doing a very DIY wedding, and as amazing as it is creating and building everything from scratch, it can get very overwhelming because you are responsible for absolutely everything. Luckily, I have incredible people helping me bring my vision to life.

IW: What was the process of getting your wedding-day ensemble like for you?

PT: The process was pretty simple. From the day I met my friend and designer Michael Costello, I knew I wanted him to create my wedding dress. We had a few meetings, I sent him some styles I love, and then he sketched out the most beautiful and unique gown I could have ever imagined!

IW: Upon what factor did you base your choice of vendors? (Past experience, reputation, accessibility, etc.)

PT: My dear friends Linda Cangro & Phyllis Inserillo have been angels throughout this whole process - they've been the ones connecting me with the vendors and I trust them very much. The only vendors that took a little bit of time to pick were my photographer and cinematographer, and that was definitely based on my experience with them in the past. 

IW: How involved has your groom been in the planning process? Your family?

PT: At first my fiancé didn't want to be involved in the whole planning process because he is very opinionated and didn't want to drive me crazy, but I didn't want to take no for an answer - now, he has had a big part in decision-making! My family has been great, and while I am busy working, they step in and take some weight off my shoulders. 

IW: What are three things that you and your groom are most looking forward to on the big day? 

PT:
- Our venue was pretty much a blank canvas, so I am excited to see it all come together when it's dressed up. 

- I am excited for the actual marriage and ceremony. I can't wait to be Mrs. Smith!

- I am also very excited to have both of our families come together as one and to celebrate with everyone.

IW: Is there anything you'd like to add about your experience?

PT: My experience has been pretty seamless and smooth-sailing with very few hiccups (knock on wood) and that's, in large part, thanks to my amazing wedding planner and creative visual director!

PT: I also wanted to give a very special thank you to my team!

Wedding Planner/Wedding Cake: Phyllis Inserillo (Lilabby's)

Creative Visual Director: Linda Cangro

Wedding Dress Designer: Michael Costello

Hair: Eduardo Ponce

Makeup: Lyndsay Zavitz

Day-of Coordinator: Angelica Diaz (Eventworks)

Catering: Joe Dicandia

Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas

Photographer/Videographer: Jaylim Photography/Cinematography

2^nd Photographer (photo booth): Richie Burg

Florist 1: Floral Couture (bridal bouquets, centerpieces, wedding arch, sweetheart table)

Florist 2: Always Bloomin' (aisle décor & escort floral)

Florist 3: Cary Décor (floral photo wall)

Event Decorator : Divine Party Display (escort wall/dessert room décor/monogrammed décor/wedding programs)

Dessert Room/Favors: Sweet Serendipity

Table Linens & Chargers: Lasar Linens

DJ: Adrian “DJ Dubz” Wiltshire

Lighting: 2^nd To None Entertainment

Draping: Raven Hollow Guild

Chairs: Glam Party Rentals

See our predictions of Margot Robbie's wedding ensemble and get the boho bridal looks of Troian Bellisario and Angela Kinsey.

Engagement photos by Mike Quain; "Congratulations" photo courtesy of Pia Toscano