Congratulations on your engagement! You might be wondering, “What’s next?” With so many possibilities and tasks ahead, it’s essential to have a plan. I’m here to help you navigate the path forward! Here are the top 15 things to do when you’re engaged!
Share the News!
After enjoying some alone time together, it’s time to share the exciting news. Start by telling your immediate family and closest friends in person or through a heartfelt phone/video call. You can capture their faces and show off the ring! Afterwards, you can make a public announcement on social media or via a formal engagement announcement.
Celebrate Your Engagement.
Your engagement is a time for celebration and joy. Take a moment to soak it all in and celebrate this special occasion, together, with family, with friends, in your style.
Insure Your Engagement Ring
Reach out to your insurance provider to add it to your policy or explore specialised jewellery insurance options.
You might also want to investigate wedding insurance.
Discuss Your Vision.
Before diving into wedding planning, have an honest conversation with your partner about your individual and shared visions for the big day.
Explore different wedding themes and styles that reflect your personality as a couple.
Whether it’s a bohemian garden wedding or a glamorous black-tie affair, narrowing down your style early in the planning process will help guide your decisions.
Wedding Size and Style.
Decide whether you want an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Discuss the style of the wedding, whether it’s traditional, modern, rustic, or a theme that’s uniquely yours.
Budget and Financial Planning
Discuss your priorities and what elements are most important to both of you.
Get some clarity about your non negotiables.
There’s endless options available to you on your wedding day so it’s best to get onto the same page about what you’d like to have.
Set a Budget.
Setting a budget is crucial as it guides all your wedding decisions. Determine if you’d like your parents to contribute or not.
Remember to leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses that may occur along the way.
Identify which elements of your wedding are most important to you both.
Prioritise, whether it’s a dream venue, your ceremony, a wedding planner, a talented photographer, or exquisite catering, allocate your budget accordingly.
Start to Consider Dates
Consider the time of year you’d like to get married and whether you have a specific location in mind. Flexibility here can be helpful if your desired venue has limited availability, and also there are peak seasons and prices for weddings. Try to avoid public holidays and bank holidays. Remember to cover the legalities, check it out here https://www.amandasceremonies.com/legal-aspects/
Create a Guest List
Start with a rough draft that includes immediate family, close friends, and essential relatives. Keep in mind that the guest list may evolve as you make decisions about your venue and budget. Having a preliminary list will be essential for selecting a venue that accommodates your guest count and getting any initial quotes too.
With your vision and budget decided start researching potential wedding venues, suppliers, and themes. Create a list of potential suppliers, venues, and design elements that resonate with your vision.
Explore Venue Options.
Consider the type of venue that suits your style and guest count. Before you fall in love with a venue there’s some important considerations.
Are you envisioning a beachfront ceremony, a rustic barn reception, or an elegant ballroom affair?
Start researching venues online and visiting your short list to get a feel for their ambiance and availability.
Ensure that you have a rough idea of numbers before you contact any venues. Then you can rule out any that aren’t suitable without wasting any time.
There’s some handy information here https://www.amandasceremonies.com/planning-a-wedding-does-your-wedding-venue-need-to-be-licensed-especially-for-a-celebrant-wedding/
Supplier Selection.
Research and reach out to wedding suppliers such as photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment providers. Read reviews, check portfolios, and schedule appointments or consultations to discuss your vision.
Get Inspired.
Wedding planning is a creative process, and inspiration plays a significant role. Browse bridal magazines, wedding websites, and social media platforms like Instagram, Tik Tok or use Pinterest to collect ideas. Create mood boards or save images that resonate with the wedding you’d like to have. This visual inspiration will be invaluable and a great starting point when discussing ideas with suppliers and wedding planners.
Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner.
If the prospect of planning your wedding seems overwhelming, consider hiring a professional wedding planner. These experts have experience in orchestrating weddings of all sizes and styles. They can offer invaluable guidance, help you stay within budget, and ensure that your vision becomes a reality.
There are different types of wedding planners, from full-service planners who handle every detail, to day-of coordinators who manage the event’s execution. Choose the level of service that suits your needs and budget.
Quality Time Together.
Set aside time for each other that doesn’t involve wedding planning. Enjoy date nights or weekend getaways to strengthen your bond. Enjoy the Journey
Remember that wedding planning should be an enjoyable journey, not just a destination.
Embrace it and don’t let the to-do lists and event planning overshadow the love and excitement you share with your partner about the upcoming day.
Keep the big picture in mind – the celebration of your love and commitment.
About the author.
I’m Amanda a modern celebrant who helps couples have the ceremony they deserve with real freedom of choice and personalisation. As a friendly award-winning celebrant, you’ll be guaranteed of a professional and stress-free approach to your big day. I have been featured in several newspapers and regularly write/blog for wedding magazines. To find out more check https://www.amandasceremonies.com
