27/01/2025
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So You Just Got Engaged ~ Now What ?
Congratulations on your engagement (or soon-to-be engagement)! We hope you’ve been enjoying every moment of sharing your proposal story and showing off your gorgeous new ring. Are you feeling curious about wedding planning yet? If you’re nodding yes, then it’s time to book a complementary consultation with Hello Gorgeous Full Bridal Service .
Call Stacy 304-281-7789
1.) Take a deep breath.
We’re here to support you – The moment you announce your engagement, the questions will start rolling in: When’s the wedding? Where’s it going to be? It can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: this is your time to soak it all in. Being engaged is such a unique chapter in your life, and it deservers to be celebrated.
Take a night out to toast to your love. Share your big news with the restaurant staff and let them join in the excitement! Or enjoy time just being together in the afterglow. Unless you’re planning a quick wedding, embrace this special season. It’s fleeting, and it’s worth savoring.
2.) Align on your wedding day vision.
Before diving into the details, take some time to talk through what matters most to both of you. This could mean deciding on a general theme or aesthetic, guest list size, tossing around location ideas, dreaming up the perfect menu, or even setting a timeline for when you’d like to say “I do.” Thinking beyond the wedding day? Maybe you’re hoping to take dance lessons, plan an epic honeymoon, or host unique guest experiences.
Sharing your individual ideas now ensures you’re both on the same page and helps you identity the must-haves for your big day (and the moments before and after it). Plus, these conversations will give you a clearer picture of how much time you’ll need to plan, save, and make those dreams happen. Starting early means more time to make your dreams a reality.
3.) Discuss your budget.
Your budget is the foundation for everything else you plan and sets the tone for how your wedding will come together. Are there areas where you’d like to splurge? Are you okay scaling back in others? Every couple approaches wedding finances differently. Some pay entirely on their own, while others receive monetary support from family. If loved ones are contributing, it’s a good idea to clarify what that looks like early on.
Knowing the shape of your budget and where there’s room to flex will make the entire planning process feel more empowering and less restrictive, so you can focus on making intentional choices that reflect what truly matters to you.
4.) Outline the right setting for your wedding.
Once you’ve talked budget, you might realize you’re leaning toward a much larger or smaller celebration than you originally imagined. This naturally ties into one of the biggest decisions: your venue or location. An intimate elopement will look and feel different from a grand wedding at an all-inclusive resort, a cozy backyard affair, or even an international destination wedding.
Sentimental locations can also shape this decision. Whether it’s a cherished family property, a meaningful religious venue, or a place that holds special significance in your relationship, these spots can add a deeply personal touch to your day. Deciding on the setting early helps bring the rest of your wedding vision into view.
5.) Consider the season.
The time of year you choose for your wedding is crucial for three key reasons. First, most weddings take place during the busy season from May to October. This is when venues and wedding vendors are in high demand, meaning you’ll need to book well in advance (in many cases, 12 – 18 months) to secure your favorite options.
Second, booking during the off-season can often (but not always) mean a discount for both your venue and vendors, making it an ideal way to stretch your budget. If you’re aiming for a dream venue that’s a little pricier, the off-season may be your ticket to making it work financially.
Finally, a spring or summer wedding will have a different experience for you and your guests than a winter one, especially depending on your location. From rentals and whether your ceremony is indoors or outdoors, to fashion choices and fun seasonal touches like holiday themes or local flowers and produce, the season you choose will shape the entire vibe of your day.
6.) Make planning fun with activities you can enjoy together.
Want to tour a few venues? Schedule a dessert tasting? Or maybe visit a winery to plan your pairings? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what’s best for you and your partner. While some parts of the planning process might come with moments of stress, we think you both deserve some lighthearted activities that keep the celebration alive. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the creative ideas flowing – and maybe even check something off your to-do list!
One of our favorite ideas? Plan a weekend getaway to the area where you’re thinking of tying the knot. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore local eateries and activities to really get a feel for whether this spot matches your vision and feels like “the one.”