You’re Engaged! — Now What? Engagement First Steps & Advice
It’s happening! You’ve got the ring, and now you’re getting married! What an amazing experience for you to soak in!
Everyone knows the general gist of planning— find a venue, get a photographer, etc… but there are so many things to take into account and sometimes it’s a bit overwhelming to figure out where to begin.
As a weddings-only venue, our team is filled with seasoned wedding pros who have seen it all. We’re happy to share our knowledge and help guide you through those first steps of planning, so you can have a more clear view of what to expect next.
Share the big news
Share the news with your loved ones before announcing it publicly.
Consider an engagement party if you wish to celebrate with family and friends.
Advice: Enjoy this special time together before diving into the planning. Take a moment to savor being engaged!
Set a budget
Determine how much you can realistically spend on the wedding.
Discuss financial contributions from family members, if applicable.
Allocate funds to different aspects such as venue, photography, attire, etc.
Advice: Don’t beat yourself up if you go over your budget. In fact, most couples end up doing so. Based on The Knot Real Weddings Study, many couples overspent on their weddings, with 56% exceeding their budget by an average of $7,900. Some spenders exceeded $10,000 over their original number. Factors like inflation and economic influences contributed to budget overruns.
Decide on a style & tour venues
Discuss the type of wedding you both envision (formal, casual, destination, etc.).
Consider the season and weather preferences for your wedding date.
Start researching potential venues that align with your style and preferred date/season.
Advice: Try not to get too caught up on a wedding date if possible. Popular venues & vendors may have limited availability, especially during peak wedding seasons. Read more advice on How to Choose a Wedding Date.
Book your venue & set a date
Visit venues that fit your style.
Be sure to bring a checklist of important questions to ask venues so you don’t forget!
Review contracts carefully and understand what’s included (catering, decorations, etc.).
Advice: Ask your venues in advance if they require a deposit to ‘hold’ a date… so that if you fall in love, you’ll be prepared!
Hire key vendors & book engagement shoot
Research and book essential vendors early (photographer, band, florist) to ensure availability.
Read reviews, ask for referrals, and schedule a quick meeting to feel them out.
Get detailed quotes and contracts to ensure clarity on services and costs.
Book your engagement shoot if using them for save the dates.
Advice: Trust your gut when selecting vendors. Personal rapport and professionalism are just as important as their portfolio. Some vendors you will be spending the entire day with — like your photographer — so you really want to make sure they’ll bring the energy you want to surround yourself with.
Start planning detailed elements
Choose who you want to be in your wedding party.
Decide on attire for yourselves and your wedding party.
Begin planning the ceremony (officiant, vows) and reception details (music, décor).
Advice: Keep track of deadlines and payments. Using a wedding planning checklist or app can help you stay organized.
Stay organized & communicate
Create a wedding planning timeline with milestones. We love this checklist from Brides.com.
Keep all contracts, receipts, and notes in one place.
Regularly communicate with your partner and key stakeholders (families, wedding party).
Advice: It’s normal to encounter bumps along the way. Maintain open communication and tackle challenges together as a team.
Celebrate milestones
Plan moments of relaxation and celebration amid the planning process.
Enjoy a weekend getaway together. Check out our list of romantic getaways in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania!
Celebrate small victories like booking a venue or finalizing the menu.
Advice: Remember, your wedding day marks the beginning of a new chapter. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
Set your boundaries, and review & adjust as needed
Periodically review your budget and timeline.
Adjust plans as needed based on feedback or changing circumstances.
Shake off any wedding guilt and stay focused on what matters most to you both as a couple!
Advice: Keep in mind that the wedding is a reflection of your love and commitment. Embrace the process, and don’t let perfection or the opinions of others overshadow the joy of celebrating your union.
Planning a wedding involves many details, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories with your partner and loved ones. Enjoy the journey, and congratulations once again on your engagement!