Congratulations, you're engaged! Now What?
Congratulations! You'll be hearing that phrase quite often in the coming months or years.
For many partners, it can be quite overwhelming when they first encounter all the questions from friends and family. When's the big day? My friend's sister's boyfriend's mother is an event planner; do you want her to give you a call? Have you checked out venues? They book up quickly, so you better start looking now for six years down the line...just kidding on that one! (Venue talk will come soon, though)
The first piece of advice is to SLOW DOWN. Take time to enjoy your engagement; this is a moment to revel in the joy of life-changing decisions. Be sure to inform your parents first, followed by your siblings and closest friends, BEFORE posting about it on social media. There's nothing worse than discovering your sister just got engaged through Insta.
Next, let's see that ring! How did your partner do? Show it off and take some pics. Then, adult it up and get it insured. Can you imagine taking off your ring to wash your hands, only to realize...it's GONE!? (it happens) Get the insurance, it's worth it.
Celebrate your love! Share the joyful news of your engagement with an Engagement Party. Whether grand or intimate, this is a significant occasion that deserves recognition. Even a cozy dinner with your nearest family and friends can create beautiful memories.
Now, how about some engagement photos? Yes, many wedding photographers include those in their packages, but in my professional opinion, you might not be ready for that step just yet. Seek out an engagement photographer whose work you admire, someone you feel comfortable around, and who fits your budget. I cannot stress enough the importance of feeling at ease with your photographer! Why? Because there will be kissing, getting cozy, and sharing plenty of laughs in front of this person! Don't overlook the possibility of involving a family member or friend who has a good camera and a talent for photography, especially if you're trying to stick to your budget for the big day.
Alright, you've got the pictures... now what? Be sure to print your favorites; they make wonderful gifts for the holidays and beautiful accents in your home. In years to come, you'll look at those photos and think, "Wow, just look at how young and hot we looked!"
Lastly, let's discuss the essentials:
When do you want to tie the knot? Do you love snow? Perhaps the vibrant colors of fall? Or a significant date, like 2/26/2026?
Where would you like to get married? Are you considering a destination wedding? A location near where you grew up? Or somewhere close to your current home?
Who do you plan to invite? (We’ll cover guest lists later.)
Who will be covering the costs? This will help with your next steps.
AND THE BIG ONE... set a budget! Unsure of what things cost? It's time for some research. Seriously, expect to exceed your budget by at least 10%.
Most Importantly ~ Enjoy every second of your engagement! ❤️ Oh, and Congratulations!