What to Do in the First 30 Days After You Get Engaged
Congratulations on your engagement! This is an exciting time filled with love, joy, and anticipation for the future, but once the initial excitement fades, you might find yourself wondering, “What next?” Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but taking it one step at a time will help ensure you enjoy every moment of this wonderful journey.
Here’s a guide with helpful wedding planning advice and tips for consideration for the first 30 days after getting engaged.
1. Share the News
Before you dive into wedding planning, take a moment to savor your engagement. Share the exciting news with your closest family and friends first. Then consider how you’d like to announce your engagement to the rest of your loved ones and friends—through a social media post, an intimate get-together, or even a fun engagement party!
2. Set a Date (or a Range)
One of the first questions people will ask is, “When is the big day?” While it's not necessary to have an exact date immediately, having a rough idea can be beneficial during the early planning stages. Take into account the season, venue availability, and any special dates that are meaningful to you as a couple.
3. Discuss Budget
Establishing a budget is the cornerstone of wedding planning. Sit down with your partner and discuss the amount you are willing and able to spend for the event. This budget will guide every subsequent decision, from the venue to the guest list. Don't forget to allocate a contingency fund for any unforeseen expenses.
4. Start a Guest List
Creating a preliminary guest list is a key step in determining the size of the venue and overall scale of the wedding. While it doesn't have to be final, having a rough estimate is crucial in the early planning stages. Consider who you wish to invite and any family obligations.
5. Research Venues
The choice of venue will set the tone for your wedding day, so start researching locations as early as possible in the planning process. Consider what type of venue best suites your vision for your special day. After selecting your top picks, schedule tours to see them in person before you make your final decision.
6. Create a Vision Board
Envisioning your dream wedding is the first step to making it a reality. Create a vision board that includes wedding themes, color palettes, and decor ideas that resonate with your unique style. Platforms like Pinterest can offer a wealth of inspiration.
7. Book a Photographer/Videographer
Photographers and videographers, especially those in high demand like With this Ring Wedding Film + Photo, tend to get booked quickly, so it's wise to start your search early. Look for photographers/videographers whose style aligns with your vision and confirm their availability for the date(s) you have chosen. Make sure to review their portfolios and read client reviews as well.
8. Choose Your Wedding Party
Select your bridal party and groomsmen. These are the friends and family members who will support you and stand by your side throughout the planning process and on the big day. After making your choices, you can start discussing responsibilities and including them in the planning process.
9. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner
Allocating funds for a wedding planner can be a wise investment if your budget permits. They offer expertise, established vendor relationships, and the assurance of a seamlessly executed event. Even if you opt out of full-service planning, hiring a coordinator for the day of the wedding is a worthwhile investment.
10. Explore Wedding Insurance
While it may not be the highlight of wedding preparations, obtaining wedding insurance can offer valuable peace of mind. Consider exploring coverage options that safeguard against unexpected events such as venue cancellations or weather disruptions.
Planning a wedding is a unforgettable journey, not merely a series of tasks. Enjoy this special time, rely on your loved ones for support, and keep in mind that the end goal is to commemorate your union with those closest to you.
For more wedding planning insights and guidance, keep an eye on our blog. Wishing you a wonderful engagement and a beautiful wedding day!
Thank you so much for stopping by our blog, we hope you found this information helpful. We want to use our blog to increase awareness and support for locally owned wedding venues. Locally- owned wedding venues tend to provide a higher level of expertise, service and dedication. They also have far less turnover than corporate-owned or investor-owned venues. As you plan your wedding we hopewill consider a locally-owned wedding venue like ours. Below is a shout out to fellow locally-owned wedding venues around the country!
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