10 Things To Do After Getting Engaged: Kickstart Your Wedding Planning
First of all, congratulations! Getting engaged is such a joyful, exciting milestone. It’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of emotions and the flurry of well-wishes (cue Monica from Friends GIF!), but once you’ve had a chance to soak in the moment, it’s time to start planning for the big day. You don’t need to have all the answers right away, but having a clear starting point will make everything feel less overwhelming. So, where do you begin? Here are 10 things to do after getting engaged to help you focus on the most important things right after that big question is popped.
10 Things To Do After Getting Engaged: Kickstart Your Wedding Planning
1. Celebrate the Moment
Before diving into the logistics, take some time to savor your engagement. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, so soak it all in! Share the news with your closest friends and family before posting on social media—it’s always nice to let your inner circle hear it directly from you. Plan a small celebration, whether that’s a cozy dinner at home, a fancy night out, or even just popping a bottle of champagne on the couch. This is about enjoying the moment together and setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead.
2. Get Your Ring Insured
It may not be the most romantic step, but it’s an essential one. Protect your new bling by getting it insured as soon as possible. Check if your renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policy allows you to add it as an extension, or look into specialized jewelry insurance. Knowing your ring is protected against loss, theft, or damage will give you one less thing to worry about. Trust me, this is one of those "adulting" moments you’ll thank yourself for later.
3. Discuss Your Vision as a Couple
Sit down with your partner and talk about your wedding vision. This is such a fun step because it’s all about dreaming together! Do you both want a big, formal event with all the bells and whistles or are you envisioning a smaller, more intimate ceremony? Think about the overall vibe—is it boho and laid-back, glamorous and chic, or something entirely unique to you? Sharing your thoughts early on helps ensure you’re on the same page and makes the planning process much smoother. Purchase a wedding planning book to help stay organized!
4. Set a Preliminary Budget
Money conversations are almost never fun, but they’re absolutely necessary. Sit down and decide how much you’re comfortable spending on your wedding. Will you be receiving financial help from family members, or are you footing the bill yourselves? Having a clear budget early on will help you prioritize and avoid unnecessary stress later. Remember, your wedding is about love and celebration—you don’t need to go into debt to make it magical.
5. Create a Guest List Draft
Your guest list will influence so many aspects of your wedding, from your venue size to your catering costs. Start with a rough list to get an idea of your headcount. Don’t worry about finalizing it just yet—this is just to help you narrow down options. Remember, it’s okay to keep your list small if that’s what feels right for you. Focus on inviting the people who truly matter and will celebrate your day with love and joy.
6. Choose a Date Range
You don’t need to lock in an exact date right away, but narrowing it down to a season or month will make it easier to book venues and vendors. Think about factors like the weather, holidays, and any family schedules that might affect your plans. Do you want a springtime wedding with blooming flowers or a cozy winter celebration? Having a general time frame will guide many of your next steps.
7. Research and Book Your Venue
Popular wedding venues can book out a year or more in advance, so this is one of the first big decisions to tackle. Spend some time researching venues that align with your vision and budget. When you visit, ask lots of questions about availability, pricing, and what’s included. Other things to ask about are the venue's rules on catering and alcohol. Once you find the perfect spot, securing it will feel like a huge weight lifted off your shoulders.
8. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner
If your budget allows, a wedding planner can be a total game-changer. They’ll help you stay organized, recommend trusted vendors, and handle all the little details so you can focus on enjoying the process. Even if you don’t hire someone for the full planning experience, many planners offer partial or day-of coordination services that can make a big difference.
9. Think About Engagement Photos
An engagement photo session is such a fun way to capture this special time in your life. It’s also a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. Plus, you can use the photos for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or just to share with friends and family. Choose a location that feels meaningful to you as a couple, and don’t be afraid to have fun with it!
10. Start Building Your Wedding Website
Your wedding website is like a one-stop shop for guests to find all the details about your big day. Include information about your love story, wedding day logistics, registry links, and anything else they might need to know. It’s also a great way to share updates as you get closer to the big day. There are so many customizable options out there, so have fun making it uniquely yours.
Other Things to Consider
Finally, remember that your engagement isn’t just a time to plan a wedding; it’s also a time to celebrate your relationship. Make time for regular date nights, enjoy the little moments, and work together on wedding projects to make it a team effort. This chapter of your life is just as special as the wedding day itself, so take it all in and cherish every step of the journey.
Planning a wedding may feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps will make the process much smoother. You’ve got this! Enjoy this exciting chapter, and remember: it’s all about celebrating your love story!