I got engaged, Now what?
FEBRUARY 15, 2023
Did you get engaged? And now an overwhelming feeling is setting in. Hopefully these tips help you!
You just got engaged? "Congratulations!!! Oh goodness, that is amazing. I am excited for you! What a rush, The emotions and excitement is a real high. But now that it passed are you quickly realizing that there is a ton of planning I'm going to have to do? Seriously, don't panic! I know it is easy to get overwhelmed; everything will get figured out and it will be beautiful!
Have you picked a date yet? Where are you getting married?
It get's annoying being asked, "when are you getting married?" "Do you have any plans yet?" Did you know that people will ask this because they don't know what else to talk about when you tell them? Don't feel pressured by this question, simply be as vague or specific as you want. Everyone is excited about you and your partner's union.
On a serious note, once you have had a little time adjusting to being engaged you do need to have serious conversation about when you want to get married. Typically couples get married 12-18 months after the proposal, however, you do you! But if you chose to be part of the average you are going to have to get on the planning.
What is your style? Do you have a favorite season? Get started with identifying overall styles and themes you like. I love looking through wedding magazines and websites. Pintrest is my best friend to start collecting these details, however go down the rabbit hole for too long. I suggest small doses. This will help you get a clearer picture of how you want your big day to look, plus its fun! All of us vendors love pictures!
Find your vendors
This part is my favorite part (since I'm a photographer!). Finding all of the important people to make your big day happen. Budgets are a must! When talking to your partner, ask questions like "what is more important to you?" "Would you rather have...?" When you know what is important then research what an average cost for that type of "thing" costs. Please be upfront with your vendors- we really don't charge an arm and a leg. Don't be afraid to talk budget with them, we completely respect you. We want to help make your day magical.
How do you find great vendors? Ask friends that have gotten married before you, talk to friends and family because they may know someone and go to bridal fairs or expos. Many websites like The Knot or Zola are a great resource as well.
What is the first thing you should book? I really feel that it is a tie between venue and photographer. If your dream location is popular then they can be booked up a year in advance, same thing with your photographer. Are you having trouble finding someone to make your day complete? When in doubt, remember.... ask a vendor that you already have lined up. Being in the wedding and events industry, we have worked with many amazing businesses and people and are happy to share and refer them for your big day.
As questions, always ask questions!
I love what I do, as a photographer I get to spend a lot of time getting to know you and your partner. Never be afraid to ask for a meeting and ask for references. Read your contract and keep copies of them. You will have a lot of planning and time wrapped into your big day and you need to trust your team of vendors to make it happen.
Remember, these is no "official wedding timeline" to stick to. Only book when you and your partner are ready. You shouldn't start booking or planning your wedding until you are ready to devote the time and money to make your big day magical.