How to start planning your wedding or engagement
Share
Congratulations on Your Engagement: Here’s How to Start Planning Your Big Day
First off, a huge congratulations to the happy couple! 💍✨ You’ve said yes, and now you’re officially engaged—such an exciting and memorable time in your life. Whether you're jumping into wedding planning right away or simply basking in the joy of this moment, there are some helpful steps to start your journey toward the big day.
Now, let's talk about how to turn that engagement excitement into an organized plan for your wedding. Here are a few quick ideas to help you get started:
Celebrate with Family and Friends
Before you dive into planning, take some time to share the news with your loved ones! Whether it's a small gathering or a larger party, celebrating with the people who mean the most to you is a great way to kick off this exciting chapter. Remember to enjoy this moment of joy and let everyone soak in the good vibes.
Set a Date
One of the first things to consider is when you'd like to have your wedding. Do you dream of a summer wedding with sunshine and outdoor vibes, or are you more inclined toward a cozy winter celebration? Picking a rough timeline can help guide your planning and narrow down your venue options. Most couples get engaged about 12 to 18 months before the wedding, but there’s no right or wrong way to plan your perfect day!
Establish a Budget
Now that you're officially engaged, it's time to talk about money. Wedding budgets can vary widely, so figuring out how much you want to spend (and how much you can realistically afford) will help keep things on track. Be sure to consider every detail, from the venue and catering to flowers and photography. It’s a good idea to prioritize what’s most important to you, so you can allocate your funds accordingly.
Create a Guest List
Deciding who will be there to witness your special day is one of the most exciting parts of planning! Start brainstorming who you’d like to invite. Your list will have a big impact on venue selection, as the space needs to be able to accommodate your guests. Creating an initial list of friends, family, and other loved ones will give you a sense of how big or intimate your wedding will be.
Choose Your Wedding Style
Do you envision a formal, black-tie affair or a laid-back beach wedding? Your wedding style will help shape everything from the venue to the dress code to the decor. Do some research and find inspiration from bridal magazines, Pinterest, or social media to discover what resonates with both of you as a couple. Once you have an idea of the aesthetic, you’ll have a clearer vision for the other decisions ahead.
Hire a Wedding Planner (If You Need Help)
Wedding planners can be a lifesaver when it comes to organizing a big event, but whether you need one is entirely up to you. If you feel overwhelmed by the thought of juggling details or want to ensure everything runs smoothly, a planner can help with everything from vendor management to day-of coordination. For couples who enjoy planning but need some guidance, partial planning services are also an option.
Book Your Venue
Once you’ve set a date and budget, it's time to book your venue! The location will play a huge role in setting the tone for your day. Whether you choose a grand ballroom, a cozy vineyard, or an outdoor garden, securing your venue early will help you avoid booking conflicts and give you ample time to plan the details.
Start Thinking About Your Vendors
Vendors such as photographers, florists, caterers, and DJs are essential to bringing your wedding vision to life. Start researching and scheduling interviews or tastings with potential vendors. It’s important to book these key players early, as the best ones tend to get booked months in advance.
Enjoy the Process
It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, but don’t forget to enjoy the ride! Take breaks, stay connected to each other, and savor the experience of planning your big day together. This is a special time for you both, so make sure you take the time to appreciate the excitement and joy that comes with being newly engaged.
Congratulations once again, and we wish you all the best as you begin this beautiful journey toward your wedding day. Here's to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness together! 💍❤️
Photo by George Coletrain on Unsplash