You're Engaged! NOW WHAT??? Tips to start planning your wedding...

Now That You're Newly Engaged: What Comes Next? Tips to start planning your wedding...

Congratulations on your engagement! Whether it was a surprise or something you’ve been anticipating, this is an exciting milestone in your life. While it’s natural to want to bask in the glow of your new engagement, there’s also a lot to think about as you move forward in this next chapter of your relationship. From announcing the news to planning the wedding and navigating new dynamics with family and friends, here’s a guide to what comes next after your engagement. Tips to start planning your wedding...

1. Celebrate the Moment

Before you dive into the practicalities, take some time to enjoy the moment. Celebrate with your partner and close family or friends. Whether you prefer a quiet dinner together or a party with your nearest and dearest, basking in the excitement of the engagement is important. This is a time to reflect on your journey together and envision your future.

2. Share the News

Once you’ve had a chance to enjoy your engagement privately, it’s time to share the exciting news! While some couples choose to announce their engagement on social media, others might prefer a more intimate approach. Either way, you’ll want to inform close family and friends first—especially if you want to avoid the awkwardness of your aunt finding out through Facebook before she hears from you directly.

When it comes to social media, think about what kind of announcement feels right for you. Do you want to share the proposal story, or simply post a picture of the ring? Remember, there’s no "right" way to do it, so just go with what feels authentic to you as a couple.

AND...do you need engagement photos to help announce your special moment? Learn more HERE.

3. Start Thinking About the Wedding

Planning a wedding can be a big undertaking, so it’s a good idea to start talking about your vision early on. Here are a few initial questions to ask yourselves:

• What kind of wedding do we want? Are you eloping or having a more traditional wedding? Formal or casual? Small or large? Indoor or outdoor? Destination or in-town?

• What’s our budget? Establishing a realistic budget early on can help set the tone for the entire planning process.

• What’s our timeline? While some couples may want a quick engagement and wedding, others might prefer a longer engagement to allow more time for planning.

  
  

It’s also helpful to start a wedding checklist. From choosing a venue to finding a photographer, there are many tasks to consider. While it might seem overwhelming at first, breaking things down into manageable steps will help reduce the stress.

4. Get Comfortable with Wedding Planning

Wedding planning is a collaborative process, and while you may have some strong ideas, it’s important to have open communication with your partner. Be prepared to compromise and work together to create a celebration that reflects both of your personalities and desires. For some couples, hiring a wedding planner can be a huge help in navigating this often overwhelming process, while others enjoy handling things themselves.

If you’re not sure where to start, begin by focusing on these key areas:

• Venue: Popular venues tend to book up quickly, so this is one of the first decisions to make. Do you want a traditional church, a scenic outdoor space, or a quirky venue that reflects your style?

• Vendors: Think about what’s most important to you—whether that’s finding the perfect photographer, videographer, caterer, or florist. Some vendors can double-dip a bit for you (for example, Illume West Studios often helps out-of-town couples plan their Colorado elopement!)

• Guest List: You might want to start brainstorming the guest list early on, as this will have a significant impact on your venue and budget.

  
  

5. Engage in Pre-Marital Discussions

Getting engaged is just the beginning of your life together. Now’s the time to have important conversations that will lay a strong foundation for your marriage. While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of engagement, discussing topics like finances, future children, career goals, and household responsibilities is crucial for long-term happiness.

Some couples even choose to attend pre-marital counseling, which can help strengthen communication and resolve potential conflicts before they arise. No matter how you approach it, being on the same page about your future is key to building a strong marriage.

6. Enjoy Pre-Wedding Celebrations

As you get closer to the big day, you’ll likely have a few fun pre-wedding events to look forward to. These may include:

• Engagement party: An opportunity for friends and family to celebrate your engagement with you.

• Bridal shower/groom’s shower: Celebrations focused on the bride or groom, often organized by close friends or family members.

• Bachelor and bachelorette parties: A final hurrah with your closest friends before the wedding day.
  

These celebrations are an excellent way to relax and enjoy the build-up to your wedding day. Just be sure to balance them with the planning, as it’s easy to get overwhelmed by too many events.

7. Don’t Forget About Self-Care

Planning a wedding can be intense, but don’t lose sight of your well-being along the way. Take time for yourself, enjoy your relationship without the stress of planning, and remember that this is about celebrating your love. Set aside date nights, do something relaxing, and keep open lines of communication with your partner so that you don’t get lost in the logistics of wedding planning.

It’s also important to maintain a strong support system. Lean on friends, family, and each other, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when needed.

Remember, this should be fun and exciting! If it starts to feel like a burden, maybe consider taking a step back to make sure you're being true to yourselves as a couple.

8. Embrace the Journey

The engagement period can feel both exciting and overwhelming, but it’s a time of growth and new beginnings. Embrace the journey, both the big moments and the small, and cherish the time leading up to your wedding day. Focus on creating a life together, not just the perfect wedding.

The road to marriage may have its challenges, but it’s also filled with joy, love, and opportunities for connection. So, take a deep breath, and remember that your engagement is just the start of an amazing adventure.

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Being newly engaged is a special time, filled with emotions, decisions, and plenty of excitement. While there’s a lot to think about, the most important thing is to take it one step at a time, enjoy the journey, and always remember the love that brought you to this moment.