The moment has finally arrived—you're engaged! This exciting milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, and with it comes the thrilling task of planning your wedding. Amidst the joy and celebration, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the myriad of details and decisions that lie ahead. To help you navigate this journey smoothly, here are the first five things you should think about after getting engaged.

1. Celebrate and Savor the Moment

Before diving into the logistics of wedding planning, take time to enjoy your engagement. Announce the news to your close family and friends personally before sharing it on social media. Host a small celebration or an engagement party to mark this special occasion. This period is unique and fleeting, so savor the joy and excitement it brings.

2. Set a Tentative Season and Date

One of the first questions you’ll be asked after announcing your engagement is, “When’s the big day?” While you don’t need to have an exact date right away, it’s helpful to decide on a season or a general timeframe. Consider factors like your work schedules, family commitments, and major holidays. This will also guide your choice of venue and help you envision the style and theme of your wedding.

3. Discuss Your Budget

Money can be a sensitive topic, but setting a budget early on is crucial for successful wedding planning. Have an open and honest conversation with your partner and any other contributors about how much you can afford to spend. Break down the budget into categories such as venue, catering, attire, photography, and entertainment. This will help you prioritize what’s most important to you and avoid unnecessary stress later on.

(Here is a link to a free budgeting and planning tool)

4. Create a Preliminary Guest List

Your guest list will significantly impact many aspects of your wedding, including the venue size and catering costs. Start by drafting a preliminary list with your partner. Consider categories like immediate family, close friends, and extended relatives. Be prepared to make adjustments as you go along, but having a rough idea of the number of guests will help you make more informed decisions during the planning process.

5. Choose a Wedding Style and Theme

Your wedding should reflect your personal style and the unique bond you share as a couple. Discuss with your partner the kind of wedding you both envision. Do you prefer a traditional ceremony, a casual beach wedding, or a modern city celebration? Think about colors, decor, and overall ambiance. Creating a mood board with images that inspire you can help solidify your vision and communicate your ideas to vendors.

Bonus Tip: Start Researching and Booking Key Vendors

Once you have a tentative date, budget, guest list, and style in mind, start researching and reaching out to key vendors such as venues, photographers, and caterers. Popular vendors can book up quickly, sometimes a year or more in advance, so it’s wise to secure your top choices early. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and meet with potential vendors to ensure they align with your vision and expectations.

Conclusion

Getting engaged is a wonderful, joyous occasion, and planning your wedding can be a fun and fulfilling experience. By taking the time to celebrate, setting a tentative date, discussing your budget, creating a guest list, and choosing a style, you’ll be well on your way to planning a day that’s truly special. Remember, the journey to your wedding day is just as important as the day itself, so embrace each step with love and excitement. Happy planning!