A sequential one-pot Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction followed by [Cu]-catalyzed 1,4-reduction for an efficient preparation of esters, is described. The protocol showed excellent chemoselectivity and broad functional group tolerance. In addition, the strategy was successfully applied for the synthesis of indanones by using a single column chromatography process. © 2019 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim