Photo by Rachel McDermott on Unsplash
As the weather cools and the holidays approach, engagement season is just around the corner! Typically spanning from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day, this special time of year sees couples everywhere popping the question and starting their journey toward "I do." If you’re anticipating a proposal or you’re newly engaged, you might be wondering, “Now what?” Here’s a breakdown of the steps to help you start this exciting new chapter stress-free and full of joy.
1. Celebrate the Moment
First and foremost, take time to celebrate! This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment that deserves to be cherished. Have a private celebration with just the two of you or gather with family and friends to share the good news. Don’t feel pressure to start planning immediately—soak in the excitement and let yourselves enjoy being engaged before diving into logistics.
2. Announce Your Engagement
Sharing your engagement is part of the fun! From traditional announcements to social media posts, let your friends and family know you’re engaged in a way that feels true to you. Some ideas:
Host a small engagement party or a virtual celebration.
Post a picture of the ring or a favorite photo together.
Send out personalized announcements by mail or email for a timeless touch.
3. Set a Budget Together
Before diving into planning, sit down together to discuss your budget. Talk about your priorities as a couple: What matters most to you both? Understanding these preferences can guide your budget. For example, if you dream of a large celebration, allocating more for your venue might be key, whereas others might prioritize an intimate wedding with a focus on catering and guest experiences. If family members are contributing, have open conversations about their contributions and expectations.
4. Dream Up a Vision
Let your imaginations run wild! What does your dream wedding look like? Casual and intimate or grand and formal? Start by collecting inspiration on Pinterest or in a scrapbook, noting color palettes, themes, and styles that resonate with both of you. This is the fun part where you get to explore together and imagine your perfect day. The clearer your vision, the easier the planning process will be!
5. Choose a Date or Season
Next, decide on your ideal wedding date or season. Some couples know right away that they want a spring wedding, while others might opt for a meaningful date, like an anniversary. Be mindful of family schedules, weather, and any major events that could affect availability. If you’re flexible, keep a few date options in mind, as this can help when booking venues and vendors.
6. Research and Book Vendors Early
Popular venues and vendors book up fast, especially during engagement season. Here’s a recommended order to start booking your key vendors:
Venue: This sets the tone and date for everything else.
Wedding Planner: Having a planner can ease stress, especially with busy schedules. A local planner can guide you on everything from decor to logistics.
Photographer/Videographer: High-quality photography captures memories for life and is often a priority for couples.
Caterer and Florist: Secure these vendors early for a better chance of availability and customizations.
Consider making a spreadsheet to keep track of vendors, deposits, and deadlines to stay organized.
7. Consider Engagement Photos
Engagement photos are a fun way to capture the excitement of this unique stage in your relationship and can be used for your save-the-dates or wedding website. Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision for the wedding, as this is a great way to do a “test run” with them before the big day. Choose a meaningful location or a beautiful outdoor space for a memorable session.
8. Set Up a Wedding Website
A wedding website is a convenient way to keep guests informed, share your story, and track RSVPs. Many platforms make it easy to design a site with a custom URL, matching your wedding theme and colors. Include important details such as venue directions, accommodations, and your registry link. Guests will appreciate having a one-stop place to access all of the information they need.
9. Start Building Your Guest List
While it’s tempting to invite everyone you know, your guest list will directly affect your budget and venue choices. Discuss with each other and key family members, and aim to categorize guests into “must-invite,” “nice-to-invite,” and “optional” lists. This list may change, but starting now will help guide your venue and catering choices.
10. Think About the Little Details
Finally, take some time to consider the little touches that will make your wedding uniquely yours. Are there traditions you want to honor? Special moments or surprises for your guests? The personal elements often become some of the most memorable parts of the day. Adding personal touches early on can create a wedding that’s a true reflection of your love story.
Enjoy Every Moment
Engagement season is a magical time filled with excitement, love, and anticipation. Don’t let the pressure of planning overshadow the joy of being engaged! Take things one step at a time, trust your instincts, and remember to have fun. Whether your engagement lasts a few months or a few years, these months will create memories you’ll look back on forever.
Happy planning—and congratulations on this beautiful journey ahead!
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