Newly Engaged? Here’s what to do next: Top tips to kickstart your wedding planning
Congratulations! Getting engaged is a monumental milestone and the beginning of an incredible journey toward your wedding day and the rest of your life together. It’s a moment full of excitement, joy, and anticipation. But after the initial celebrations, it’s common to wonder, “What’s next?” If you’ve just said “yes,” don’t worry, planning your wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a few key steps, you can start your engagement on the right foot, laying the foundation for a stress-free and enjoyable wedding planning journey.
Here are our top tips for newly engaged couples who want to start planning their wedding with confidence and clarity.
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1. Celebrate the Moment
Before diving into guest lists, venues, or florals, take the time to truly savour this special milestone. Being newly engaged is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it deserves to be celebrated. Allow yourselves a few moments to soak in the joy and excitement of this new chapter.
Whether it’s classic champagne or your favourite sparkling alternative, and toast to the beginning of your engagement journey. Consider sharing the news with your loved ones. You might host a party, enjoy an intimate dinner with close family, or even keep it just between the two of you. Whatever feels right, make it a moment that’s personal and meaningful. Even a quiet evening spent reflecting on your engagement can help you connect and cherish the start of your wedding journey.
Celebrating your engagement isn’t just fun, it sets a positive, joyful tone for the planning ahead. Remember, this is about the two of you and the love you share, so embrace the happiness and excitement before the logistics of planning take over.
2. Create a “Must-Haves” List
Once you’ve celebrated your engagement, it’s time to start envisioning your wedding. One of the first steps is creating a “must-haves” list, a clear outline of the elements that matter most to you both. This will guide your planning decisions and help you stay focused as you navigate the many options and details of wedding planning.
Start by discussing your priorities. What’s non-negotiable for each of you? Is it a seaside venue, a small guest list, or a particular wedding photographer? Identifying your must-haves ensures that the aspects of your wedding that matter most are prioritised. Use this process to find common ground, align expectations, and determine where compromises might be necessary. Remember, the goal is to celebrate your love as a couple, so finding harmony in your choices is key.
While it’s important to dream big, stay realistic about what can be achieved within your timeline and budget. Having a clear vision of your wedding day makes decisions easier and ensures that every choice reflects the experience you want to create together.
3. Set a Budget
One of the most important steps in early wedding planning is establishing a clear budget. While wedding planning is exciting, financial stress can quickly dampen the joy of the experience. Setting a realistic budget early on allows you to make informed decisions and prevents unexpected surprises along the way.
Begin by determining your total budget, taking into account contributions from family, personal savings, or other resources. Once you have a total figure in mind, break it down into key categories such as venue, catering, attire, décor, and entertainment. This approach ensures that funds are allocated wisely and helps prevent overspending in any one area.
Finally, stick to your budget as closely as possible. A well-defined financial plan keeps wedding planning enjoyable and ensures that your engagement remains a time of excitement rather than stress. Remember, a thoughtful budget is a tool that empowers you to create your dream wedding without compromise.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Engagement Journey
Being newly engaged is an extraordinary time, full of love, excitement, and anticipation. By taking the time to celebrate your engagement, creating a clear vision for your wedding, and establishing a realistic budget, you’ll start your planning journey on the right foot. These foundational steps allow you to enjoy the process, make confident decisions, and build the wedding day you’ve always imagined.
Wedding planning is a marathon, not a sprint, and starting with these simple, strategic steps ensures that your engagement is as joyful and memorable as your wedding day itself. So, raise a glass, dream together, and take the first exciting steps toward the celebration of your lifetime.
