5 Things to Do First When You Get Engaged
Updated: Jul 19, 2023
Congratulations, you lucky lovebirds – you're engaged! Cue the confetti, pop the champagne, and let the blissful whirlwind begin! 💍✨ But hold up, amidst the clouds of joy, are you starting to feel the overwhelm creeping in? Fear not, because we're here to be your wedding wing-person, your confidante in the chaos, and your compass through the nuptial maze!
So, take a deep breath, soak in that dreamy glow, and let's tackle this adventure together. We've got your back with the ultimate game plan – the first things you should be crossing off your wedding to-do list! From magical moments to practical pointers, we're dishing out the top tasks that'll set the stage for your happily ever after.
So, grab your partner's hand, let your excitement lead the way, and get ready to embark on a journey of love, laughter, and "I do"s. Whether you're bursting with ideas or feeling a bit lost, worry not – we're here to make this journey unforgettable, step by unforgettable step! Let's get this engagement party started! 🎉🥂
1. Don't Do Anything
You may feel like immediately pulling up your wedding inspiration Pinterest board to start planning, but please stop and enjoy the moment! Take some time, maybe a couple of weeks, to spend with your fiancé doing things NOT related to wedding planning.
2. Set a Budget
Nobody likes to talk about money, but you need to agree on a budget before you can actually start planning. Are you going to pay for everything yourselves? Do you have parents or family helping to cover some of the costs? A lot of things can influence your budget: venue, guest list, bridal party size, how long you're engaged, vendors you choose, location, etc.
3. Create Your Guest List
Start by creating a list of everyone you can think of that you would want at your wedding. Then you'll most likely need to narrow down that list because of budget restrictions or your venue capacity. Start with the people you want there most, then include extended family, friends, and anyone else you may want to celebrate with. Don't include people you haven't spoken to in years, coworkers you barely know, or family that you really don't get along with if you're trying to keep your guest list small.
4. Pick a Venue
What's more important to you: your dream venue or your guest list? Start with this question in mind. Do you want the venue of your dreams or do you want to invite everyone? Maybe you can have both (fingers crossed)! Here are some important questions to ask venues before booking with them:
Are you available on my date?
How much does it cost?
How many people can you accommodate?
When can I set up and take down?
What restrictions do you have?
Do I have to use your preferred vendors?
Can we bring our own alcohol?
What's your refund policy?
5. Book Vendors with Limited Availability First
Vendors like your photographer, DJ/Band, videographer, and caterer tend to book out pretty fast for weddings, sometimes years in advance. These are the first vendors you want to line up, especially if you already have a particular vendor in mind!
These are the first five things we recommend prioritizing after you get engaged 💍 Remember to enjoy this time in your life! It will go by so quickly and be over before you know it.
Are you recently engaged? Tell us your engagement story in the comments!
*A portion of this blog content was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence*