Just Said Yes? Here's Your Next Move for a Smooth Wedding Planning Process
Congratulations, you're engaged! Now what?! I've compiled a list of things you need to think about when planning your wedding, plus a free printable inside!
You’re engaged! You’ve been dreaming about finding your person and planning your dream wedding since you were a little girl, but… now, what?! If you’re reading this, the excitement has probably worn off and now reality is starting to sink in. You’re starting to stress out about everything you need to do.
Maybe you have a pretty good idea of everything you need to do, and you want to make sure you don’t miss anything. Or, maybe you’re already halfway through wedding planning and realize you keep forgetting important tasks because it’s not all written down in a single list for you.
Take a deep breath! I’ve written this guide to help you through things you should think about as soon as you get engaged. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen first-hand how tasks can get missed and I’m here to ensure that doesn’t happen to you! So, let’s dive in and make this journey as smooth as possible!
Take a second to enjoy your engagement
You've got a shiny ring on your finger, and it's time to let yourself feel that joy! If you haven’t given yourself time to enjoy your news before reading through this, I want you to bookmark this page and take the rest of the day off. Come back to this tomorrow, take a day - that’s it. You’re already filled with so many emotions, that you don’t need to add to them by starting the research process the second you’re engaged. Tell your closest family and friends! Bask in the excitement. Have a date night. Just spend the day celebrating each other and your news.
Book a photoshoot
If the proposal didn’t have an engagement photoshoot, it’s definitely on my list of top priorities when getting engaged (but I’m biased)! Why book an engagement photoshoot? These aren't just ordinary snapshots; they're timeless keepsakes that capture the unique connection between you and your partner. Consider investing in a professional photographer who can bring out the true nature of your love story. Pick a location that holds sentimental value to your relationship.
I love the versatility of engagement photos – share the joy on social media, offering friends and family a preview of your exciting news. Some photographers take the sweetness up a notch by including a complimentary engagement session in their wedding packages, making your engagement photos practically free when you book them for your special day. And let's not forget, these heartwarming images can take center stage in your save-the-date invitations.
Draft Your Wedding Vision
Now it’s time to envision your dream wedding! You probably have somewhat of an idea of what you’re looking for already. I’d recommend searching for inspiration on Pinterest, magazines, and real weddings you’ve been to and start creating a wedding vision board.
Consider the vibe and style you’re looking for. Do you want a smaller wedding that’s more intimate with only your closest friends and family participating in your favourite activities (surfing, canoeing, etc.)? Or are you looking to hold an extravagant wedding at a beautiful venue with all of your friends and family? This will help you envision your dream day and give you an idea of the type of venue you’ll be looking for.
For example, if you’re looking to do something smaller, less stressful and more intimate, you could consider a destination elopement. You can plan your day around you and your partner, and a lot of the planning work is done for you. Elopement photographers and planners tend to help out with the planning by understanding what you’re looking for and bringing your vision to life for you.
However, if you’re looking for something bigger with all your friends and family, you’ll probably want to have your wedding close to home where everyone can afford to attend.
Start Drafting Your Guest List
The guest list is where the party truly takes shape! Consider your ideal wedding size, factoring in budget, venue capacity, and the ambiance you want. This list is a starting point, not set in stone, but it gives you a jumping-off point for venue and catering decisions. Picture the smiling faces that will celebrate with you on your big day – the excitement is real!
Decide on a Budget
Time for a bit of number crunching! Setting your wedding budget may not be the most glamorous task, but it's crucial. Have an open conversation with your partner and anyone contributing financially. Prioritize what matters most to you both, create a flexible blueprint, and get ready to make your dream wedding a financial reality. Deep breaths, grab those calculators, and let's do this!
Book Your Venue and Choose the Date
Now comes the magic moment – booking your venue and selecting the wedding date! Start the search early, considering factors like your preferred time of year, vendor availability, and dates that hold special meaning. Your wedding date will be etched in history, so let's turn it into a destination to begin the rest of your life. Find that perfect location and set the date – the countdown to "I do" officially begins!
Book Your Vendors
Riding the excitement wave from securing your venue, it's time to bring your event to life with your dream team of vendors. From tantalizing food to captivating photos, choose vendors that align with your vision and budget. Explore their work, ask questions, and make sure you understand the nitty-gritty before signing those contracts. Booking vendors is a thrilling step toward turning your dream wedding into an unforgettable celebration!
Decide on Wedding Attire
Get ready for the exhilarating journey of finding your perfect wedding attire! Whether it's a lavish gown, a chic suit, or something unique, start shopping early. Consider your wedding party's attire, balancing comfort, style, and the season. This milestone in your planning journey will bring your vision to life – take a deep breath, explore the world of wedding fashion, and find that attire that makes you feel as fantastic as you look!
Start Your Wedding Registry
Creating your wedding registry is like a guilt-free shopping spree just for you and your partner. Sit down, and think about what you need or wish for in your shared life – from kitchen gadgets to cozy bedding. Mix it up with items at various price ranges, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether it's a traditional store registry, an online one, or even a honeymoon or charity fund, this is your chance to curate a dream list that becomes part of your shared story. So, grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, get comfy, and start building your dream nest together!
Plan Your Honeymoon
As you plan the perfect wedding, don't forget the cherry on top – your blissful honeymoon! Whether it's a beach retreat, a city adventure, or a serene staycation, make it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Budget accordingly, research destinations, and start creating memories that will last a lifetime. Your honeymoon is a celebration of your union, so plan it with the same excitement and joy that you bring to your wedding. Cheers to the incredible journey that awaits you!
Happy planning, lovebirds! 🥂💍
In the end, booking an engagement session with a photographer is more than just a photo shoot. It's an investment in your wedding experience, your memories, and your relationship. By taking the time to get comfortable in front of the camera, express your personal style, and build a relationship with your photographer, you are setting yourself up for a wedding day filled with beautiful and authentic photographs. A lot of photographers also have complimentary engagement sessions included in their wedding packages so double check to see if your wedding photographer does as well!
So don't overlook the importance of an engagement session. It's an opportunity to make beautiful memories, showcase your love story, and enhance your overall wedding experience.