10 Things to do Once You're Engaged
Congratulations! You're engaged! But wait -- now what?Â
I have compiled a list of 10 things to do to help you get ready for your Happily Ever After!
1. Shout it from the Rooftops!
Okay, maybe not literally but you get the idea. Call your family. Call your friends. Tell them your exciting news! They will definitely appreciate being told before you post it on social media.
2. Talk about your Dream Wedding
Before you start making checklists, sit down with your partner and talk about your vision for your Wedding Day. Let them share their vision. Making sure you are both on the same page will save A LOT of frustration later. Create a Pinterest board. Get inspired. Choose a color palette and venue that suites your love story. Think about how the two of you want you day to go. Big, traditional wedding? Small, intimate, elopement style wedding? Private ceremony? Destination elopement with reception close to home? There are so many ways you could go. Only you and your partner know what is best for you!
3. Choose your Wedding Party
This can be SO taxing! I remember how difficult it was from when I planned my wedding. Make a list of the people you are considering then, go through these questions for each person:Â
-Has she/he been considered a best friend?
- Have they been there through thick and thin?
- Will there be hurt feelings or drama if they aren't selected?
- Are they a family member?
- Can they be trusted with Wedding Party duties?
- Are they positive?
- Can they cover the cost of wardrobe. shoes, bachelor/bachelorette parties?
- Will they remember the day is about you?
If the people on your list meet these criteria - you've found yourselves an AWESOME Wedding Party!
4. Set a Realistic Budget
Okay, so this isn't the MOST fun part of planning your wedding, but its definitely a necessity. Check out this Wedding Budget tool to help you with this step.
5. Create a Guest List
After you set your budget, sit down with your partner and create a list of people you want to invite. You will want to have this list before meeting with venues and caterers, as it will decide what you will be able to afford and what type of venue will work best for your guest count and vision.
6. Choose a Venue & Set a Date
Now that you know your budget and guest list you can start your search for the PERFECT venue. Come prepared with questions and don't forget to take photos when you’re touring venues. Once you've finished touring all the venues you are interested in, sit down with your partner and decide on the best place for your big day.Â
7. Engagement Portrait Session
Schedule your Engagement Session as early as possible OR at least 9 months prior to your Wedding Date. You will want a few images for your Save the Date cards. Talk to your Photographer or check out Pinterest for engagement session inspiration.
8. Choose Your Vendors
Select your vendor team early, as many professionals are booked a year or two in advance. You will need to decide on a Photographer, Planner, Florist, Caterer, Bartender(s), etc.
9. Say Yes, to Your Dress
I know, you JUST got Engaged but it can take 6-9 months or longer for your dress to shipped to you. That doesn't even include the time it will take you to find the perfect dress. Its best to get this step out of the way ASAP, to allow for any last minute problems. Make sure you choose a dress that fits the vision for your wedding!Â
10. Stay Organized!
Easier said than done, I know. There are a million ways to stay organized during the wedding planning process. A few favorites are Wunderlist (list sharing app) and Google Docs (for storing those Have to Have files). Keeping up with your checklist and savings/budget with a Google Doc or Wedding Binder will help you to stay happy and sane. You DO NOT want to be stressed out or overwhelmed on your wedding day. Make sure and put in the time beforehand to ensure your wedding day goes off exactly the way you always dreamed it would!
