Congratulations! You just got engaged, and now you’re floating on cloud nine, staring at your ring every five minutes, and basking in the excitement of this huge life milestone. But after the celebratory champagne settles, reality sets in…..where do you even start with planning your wedding?
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! We’ve broken down the first 10 steps you should take after getting engaged to set you on the path to a stress-free and joyful wedding planning experience. Whether you’re hiring a planner or taking the DIY route, these steps will help keep you organized and ahead of the game.
1. Celebrate & Announce Your Engagement
Before diving into the logistics, take a moment to soak in the excitement. Share the news with your closest family and friends before posting it on social media. If you want to go all out, consider throwing an engagement party or hosting a small dinner to celebrate with loved ones.
Pro Tip: Take some stunning engagement ring photos and craft a heartfelt post for Instagram (or let your planner help craft the perfect announcement strategy!).
2. Have an Initial Wedding Vision Chat
Now that the excitement has settled, sit down with your fiancé and discuss what kind of wedding you both envision.
– Do you want an intimate backyard wedding or a grand ballroom affair?
– A destination wedding or something closer to home?
– What season do you imagine tying the knot in?
– This isn’t about making final decisions but rather getting on the same page about the general vibe and expectations.
Pro Tip: Pinterest and Instagram are gold mines for inspiration. Create a shared vision board to keep track of ideas!
3. Set a Realistic Budget
Before you get too deep into planning, determine how much you can afford to spend on your wedding.
– Discuss financial contributions from both families (if applicable).
– Research average wedding costs in your area.
– Prioritize what matters most (venue, photography, catering, etc.).
Pro Tip: Unexpected costs always pop up, so set aside an extra 5-10% of your budget for surprises.
4. Start Your Guest List
The size of your guest list directly impacts your budget and the type of venue you’ll need.
– Write down your must-have guests first (close family, best friends).
– Add in extended family and friends.
– Expect about 10-20% of invitees to decline.
Pro Tip: Consider an A-list and B-list approach. If some guests decline, you can invite others from your backup list.
5. Research & Book a Wedding Planner
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want a seamless experience, hiring a professional wedding planner is a game-changer. They can help with venue selection, vendor coordination, and timeline management.
– Full-service planners take care of everything.
– Partial planners assist with specific tasks.
– Day-of coordinators ensure everything runs smoothly.
Pro Tip: Check out FindYourWeddingPlanner.com to connect with top-rated wedding planners in your area! Fill out the free questionnaire today.
6. Pick a Wedding Date (or a Few Options)
You don’t have to lock in a date immediately, but having a few potential dates in mind will help when booking venues and vendors.
– Consider major holidays, weather, and guest availability.
– Some venues offer discounts for off-season or weekday weddings.
– If you have a dream vendor, check their availability before finalizing your date.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check for local events or sports games that could affect hotel and venue availability.
7. Research & Book Your Venue
Your venue sets the tone for your wedding. Once you have your budget and estimated guest count, start touring venues.
– Look at wedding packages and what’s included.
– Consider the venue’s policies, including catering, décor, and alcohol restrictions.
– Ask about backup plans for outdoor weddings.
Pro Tip: Your Wedding Planner should be able to listen to your needs, help you find the perfect place, and ensure that your money is being spent in the best way possible.
8. Book Key Vendors Early
Some vendors book up over a year in advance, so start with the most in-demand professionals:
– Wedding Planner (if you haven’t already)
– Photographer & Videographer
– Caterer
– Band or DJ
– Officiant
Pro Tip: Always read reviews and meet vendors in person or via Zoom before signing contracts.
9. Start Dress Shopping (Yes, Already!)
Wedding dresses can take 6-9 months to be made and altered, so start shopping early.
– Bring a trusted friend or family member.
– Try different styles—you might fall in love with something unexpected!
– Consider shopping for off-the-rack options if you’re short on time.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on losing weight, order the dress in your current size—it’s easier to take in than let out.
10. Get Organized & Create a Planning Timeline
At this point, you’ve tackled some of the most crucial steps. Now, it’s time to create a wedding planning checklist and timeline.
– Use a wedding planning app or a simple spreadsheet.
– Set realistic deadlines for booking vendors, sending invites, and finalizing details.
– Keep a folder for contracts, payments, and vendor info.
Pro Tip: Planners love organization—having a clear system will make vendor meetings and decision-making easier!
Final Thoughts
Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in your life, but wedding planning doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these 10 steps, you’ll build a solid foundation for an unforgettable wedding experience.
If you’re looking for expert help, trusted vendors, or even just a little inspiration, check out FindYourWeddingPlanner.com to connect with professionals who can bring your dream wedding to life!
Happy planning, and congratulations again! 🎉