Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and while it might feel overwhelming, you can break down the next steps into manageable phases. Here's a guide to help you get started:
1. Celebrate the Moment
Enjoy the engagement and celebrate with your partner before diving into planning. Celebrate the love just the two of you and plan to have a romantic moment such as dinner or mini getaway. Share the news: Decide how you want to share the news with family and friends—personally, via a call, or on social media. Show off the ring If you have a ring, consider getting it insured and sized if needed.
2. Discuss the Vision
When talking about a dream wedding, have a conversation with your partner about the kind of wedding you both envision (big or small, formal or casual, local or destination). Don’t forget to set priorities. Identify what’s most important—whether it's the venue, photography, food, or a specific tradition.
3. Set a Budget
Crunch the number/ Determine how much you’re comfortable spending and identify who is contributing. Break down the budget into categories like venue, catering, attire, photography, and flowers.
4. Choose a Date
Be flexible with the date. Start with a preferred season or month and narrow it down based on availability and other considerations. Popular months to get married is May-June, mainly due to pleasant weather and blooming flowers. September and October; fall weddings are trendy for their romantic ambiance and vibrant foliage.
5. Build Your Dream Team
Hire a wedding planner. They can help with logistics, budgeting, and vendor coordination.Especially if the venue does not provide clean up after the wedding services. Book key vendors early: Start with high-demand vendors, such as the venue, photographer, and caterer. Some are booked a couple years ahead so make sure set your venue first.
6. Celebrate with Loved Ones
Plan an engagement party 3-5 months before the wedding: If you’d like, organize a celebration to share the joy with family and friends.
Engagement photoshoot: Capture this special time in your life. As a photographer, I’d love to help create timeless and romantic images! Also it can be used for save the date invites prior to formal invitation.
7. Start the Guest List
Draft a list is important. Create a preliminary guest list to estimate headcount and venue size.Also collect addresses and start gathering mailing addresses for future safe the date invite and wedding invitations.
8. Research Venues
Tour options: Explore venues that fit your vision and budget. When choosing a wedding venue, it’s essential to confirm they have a solid backup plan in case of rain. Whether it’s an indoor space, a covered area, or tents ready to be set up, having a Plan B ensures your big day runs smoothly, no matter what the weather decides to do."Reserve your favorite”: Popular venues book quickly, so secure yours as soon as possible.
9. Think About the Dress and Attire
Start dress shopping early: Wedding dresses can take months to order and tailor.
Choosing outfits for your wedding party is an exciting part of the planning process! Consider your wedding theme, venue, and season to guide your choices. Coordinate colors and styles that complement your wedding palette while ensuring the outfits are comfortable and flattering for everyone. It’s always a good idea to discuss preferences with your party to make them feel their best on your special day."
10. Enjoy Being Engaged
Take your time: You don’t have to rush everything—savor the planning process.
Plan date nights: Keep the romance alive by spending quality time together outside of wedding discussions.