Congratulations, Newly Engaged Besties! With the Christmas holiday season being the season of engagement, we wanted to touch base on the exciting next steps! Getting engaged is an exhilarating moment that kicks off a whirlwind of excitement and planning. After that magical "YES," you might be buzzing with excitement and wondering where to begin. This guide is here to help, offering the top 8 steps to take after getting engaged, ensuring your wedding planning journey is as easy and stress free as saying YES at the proposal! 💍✨
1. Savor the Moment
Pause and fully embrace the excitement of your engagement. This is a unique time for both of you, perfect for reflecting on your love story and the journey that brought you here.
Capture the moment not just through photographs but also by creating memories. Consider journaling about your proposal or making a keepsake box filled with mementos like your engagement ring receipt or the bouquet. Enjoy this time before diving into the planning!
2. Tell Nearest and Dearest Before Posting on Social Media
Before blasting your great news on social media to the world, hit the pause button! Make sure to prioritize informing your closest family and friends. Aunt Sally would love a facetime or even a call before stumbling across it on IG. This personal touch really does mean the world to your loved ones and allows for them to celebrate with you more intimately.
Plan a small gathering at your favorite restaurant, host a cozy dinner at home, or organize a cocktail party to share the news. According to a Vogue article, in 2024 more couples opted to have an engagement party than newly engaged couples in the previous years.
3. Pick a Date and Set a Budget
Here comes the fun part—choosing your wedding date! Look over your calendars and discuss dates that hold special meaning for your relationship, like the anniversary of your first date. If there isn't a special date, is there a certain time of year you know would be easier to take a week or two off? Once you know a time of year, narrow your date down to a couple of options to ensure you get the venue you want.
Once you nail down a date/dates, it’s time to establish a budget. According to a recent study by Zola the average wedding costs about $33,000. The article also went on to state Rhode Island is the most expensive average at over $49,000 and Alaska being the cheapest with it's average at roughly $14,500. Here in Tennessee the average wedding is under $29,000 and Kentucky is around $22,000 according to the same article.
If you have family willing to help with the costs, find out amounts they are willing to help with so you know how much money will be contributed to the costs. This will help you be able to know what monies you and your partner will need to budget for.
Knowing how much you can spend will help you make decisions on everything from venues to catering. A well-defined budget not only reduces stress but also creates a clear plan as you embark on your wedding journey.
4. Get a Rough Count for a Guest List
Before you dive deeper into planning, start drafting a rough guest list. This list is crucial in selecting the right venue, as capacities vary widely.
Sit down together and make your list, focusing on those you absolutely want to celebrate with you. Understanding your estimated guest count early will streamline your planning process, making everything more efficient. It is sometimes helpful to create a two part list. Group A being the must have invites and Group B is the extended list if the budget/venue allows.
Remember the amount of people in attendance at your wedding will change the cost of your wedding. According to Zola, in 2024 a guest count of under 75 guest could be achieved on a $21,000 budget, while a guest count of 150 would be around $34,000.
5. Research, Tour, Book Your Venue
Finding the ideal venue is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. Research various locations that fit your wedding theme, budget, and guest count.
Once you have a shortlist, schedule tours to explore the venues firsthand. When touring, ask about availability, included services, and any restrictions. Some venues have stipulations on vendors you can use. They may require you to use their caterer or rental company for tables/chairs/linens. One venue might be cheaper, but once you look at everything they require be purchased for them, the slightly more expensive venue may end up being the route to keeping your wedding in budget.
Once you find the venue that feels right, secure your date by booking as soon as possible. Popular venues often get booked a year or more in advance, especially during peak season, i.e. Sept-Nov here locally with October being the most popular month.
6. Wedding Gown Shopping
Your wedding gown is a significant part of your special day, and you want to feel incredible in it! Start your gown shopping adventure with enthusiasm, an open mind, a budget, and the knowledge to empower you when you shop.
Visit local bridal shops, including us here at Wedding Belles, to explore styles that match your vision. Enjoy the process of trying on different silhouettes with your mom/bestie/etc.—this bonding activity can create lasting memories. You might find that the dress you least expect to love ends up being “the one.” So make sure you are to purchase when you book your appointments. Discounts are usually offered at the appointment and leave when you do! I have seen may people come in to "try on to get an idea of their style" who end up falling in love with a gown. Remember this is the most photographed piece of clothing you will ever own. Most decisions are made with your brain, but just like saying YES to the proposal, this is a purchase guided by your heart. Another thing to keep in mind is some designers offer rush production which can be in store in less than 3 months but others take up to 10 months to produce! So after your venue is booked, this is the next item to check off your list!
7. Research and Book Other Vendors
As you move along, it’s essential to research additional wedding vendors, including photographers, florists, caterers, and entertainment.
Look for reviews and recommendations, perhaps from wedding blogs or friends. Schedule meetings with potential vendors to discuss your vision and make sure they align with your style and budget. According to WeddingWire, 90% of couples found their wedding vendor through reviews or referrals from friends. After you find the right match, book them quickly to secure your date!
8. Enjoy the Process
Planning a wedding can feel a bit overwhelming at times, but remember to enjoy the journey! Focus on the enjoyable aspects, like tasting cakes, sampling catering options, and selecting décor.
Celebrate your small wins as a couple. You’re building a beautiful foundation for your future together. Embrace the laughter and love that come with planning, and make sure to share joyful moments with friends and family.
OK Besties!
Your engagement kicks off an exciting journey filled with love and happiness. As you navigate these steps, stay connected with each other and prioritize the love that led you to this moment.
By following these steps, you'll turn the chaos of planning into a breeze and craft unforgettable memories. Here’s to love, laughter, and a happily ever after that’s more epic than a 90s rom-com! Cheers to the newly engaged and the wild adventure ahead! 🥂
Kommentare