Engaged... Now What?
Congratulations on your engagement! Your hearts are brimming with love, excitement, and dreams of a beautiful future together. But what's next? This blog is here to guide you through the initial steps after saying "yes" and help you embark on the journey of planning your wedding and building a life together.
PHOTO CREDIT: PAIGE ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY, ELLIE & BRIAN’s ENGAGEMENT & WEDDING DAY
1. Share the News Thoughtfully
Celebrate your engagement as a couple first, and then share the news with family and close friends. Begin with your parents and immediate family members before making a public announcement. They'll appreciate hearing it directly from you.
2. Insure Your Ring
Your engagement ring is not only a symbol of your commitment but also a valuable asset. Consider insuring it to protect against loss, theft, or damage. If it doesn't fit perfectly, have it resized by a professional jeweler right away.
3. Select Your VIPs
Choose your bridal party and groomsmen wisely, considering not only personal significance but also organization and dependability. This team extends beyond the bridal party, so think about including parents, siblings, grandparents, and other close relatives in significant roles. They'll be invited to join the celebration at both the engagement party and the rehearsal dinner.
4. Celebrate
Host an engagement party to share your joy with friends and family. Determine the guest list and the type of gathering you'd like, whether it's small and intimate or a larger celebration. Get inspired by our Engagement Party Mood Board.
5. Get Inspired
Begin gathering wedding inspiration through Pinterest boards, wedding blogs, and bridal expos. This will help define your wedding style and preferences.
6. Discuss Key Details
Have conversations about your wedding vision, themes, colors, and must-haves with your fiancé. Create a solid foundation for your wedding planning process, keeping your unique vision in mind.
7. Create a Guest List
Compose an initial guest list, which will help you choose an appropriate venue and estimate catering and other expenses.
8. Define Your Budget:
Openly discuss your wedding budget, determining the total you're willing to spend and the sources of funding. Consider what aspects of the wedding are most important to both of you.
9. Pick a Venue
Selecting the right venue is crucial, as it sets the tone for your entire wedding. Consider your vision, the number of guests, and the location.
10. Set a Date
Start thinking about your wedding date, considering factors like the season, your work commitments, and family availability. Develop a wedding timeline for a smooth planning process.
11. SELECT A PhotographER and VideographER
Once you have your date and venue, it's time to book your wedding photographer and videographer to capture your special day Be sure to schedule an engagement photoshoot with your photographer. It's a fun and creative way to document this special time and provides beautiful images for save-the-dates and invitations.
12. Save the Dates and Invitations:
As your wedding date approaches, start designing and sending out save-the-dates and invitations to your guests.
With these initial steps, you're well on your way to creating the wedding of your dreams. Embrace the journey, communicate openly with your partner, and remember that it's not just about the destination but the adventure you share along the way. Your wedding marks the start of a new chapter in your love story, and it's a journey worth savoring. Congratulations again, and happy planning!
