Newly Engaged? Here’s Your Essential Checklist for the Next Steps!

Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting time is filled with joy and planning as you start this new chapter together. To help navigate the essential steps after saying "yes," here’s a curated checklist to guide you along the way:

• Share the Joy 

First things first, share your exciting news! Start by telling your close family and friends before making a public announcement on social media. Let those closest to you be the first to know whether it's a phone call, text, or a special dinner.

• Celebrate! 

Celebrate this exciting milestone with an engagement party to bring together the people you love! Not sure if an engagement party is right for you? Check out our blog post, "Engagement Party: Should I Have One?" for a helpful look at the pros and cons, so you can make the best choice for your celebration.

• Set a Date

Sit down with your fiancé to envision your ideal wedding timeline and choose a date. Think about which season feels right for your celebration, any meaningful dates you’d love to incorporate, and any significant dates for your families to avoid. This way, you can find the perfect moment to say "I do" that’s both special and memorable for everyone! Keep in mind that selecting your venue may impact your chosen wedding date so it is important to be flexible.

• Create a Budget

Gather with your fiancé and anyone else contributing financially to outline a clear wedding budget, and what is included in that number. Discuss how much each person will contribute and set spending limits to ensure everything stays manageable. Consider setting a range for your “all in” wedding budget. That way you aren’t taken off guard if you do surpass that starting number.

• Hire a Wedding Planner/Coordinator

Planning a wedding on your own can quickly become a full-time job. To ease the stress, consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to assist you throughout the process. Depending on your specific wants and needs, the right choice for you may vary. Check out our blog post, "Wedding Planner vs. Wedding Coordinator: What's the Difference?" to determine which option best suits your needs and ensures your big day is everything you’ve dreamed of!

• Draft Your Guest List

Start by creating a guest list to gauge the size of your wedding. This will help you choose the right venue and can be adjusted as your planning evolves. For tips and tricks on how to build your guest list effectively, check out our blog post, "How to Build Your Wedding Guest List."

• Choose a Venue

Take the time to research and visit potential wedding venues to find the perfect setting for your big day. Consider factors like location, capacity, ambiance, and the services they offer. Make a list of your must-haves and preferences to help narrow down your options. Once you’ve found a venue that meets your vision and needs, it’s essential to book it as soon as possible. Popular venues, especially during peak wedding seasons, can fill up quickly.

• Select Your Wedding Party

Selecting your Maid of Honor, Best Man, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key roles is an exciting part of your wedding planning journey! Think about the friends and family members who have been there for you and whom you want by your side on your special day. Once you’ve made your selections, communicate your choices clearly and discuss your expectations for their roles. This includes their responsibilities, attire, and any events they’ll need to attend, like dress fittings or the bridal shower.

• Start Researching Vendors

Take the time to research photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment options to ensure your wedding day is everything you envision. Create a list of potential vendors and compare their prices to see which ones fit within your budget. Don’t hesitate to schedule consultations, this is your chance to meet them in person or online, discuss your vision, and see if your personalities align. 

• Plan Engagement Photos

Schedule an engagement photo session that truly reflects your unique style as a couple. Think about locations that hold special meaning for you, whether it’s the place you had your first date, a favorite park, or a scenic spot that resonates with your love story. Scheduling an engagement photo session is not only just a great way to celebrate your love, but it also provides an excellent opportunity to see if you connect with your photographer's style and approach before the wedding. This session allows you to experience firsthand how they work, how they interact with you, and how they capture moments.

• Create a Wedding Website

A wedding website is an essential tool for weddings! It’s the perfect platform to share your engagement story, provide important wedding details, and include links to your gift registry for guests. Not only does it streamline communication, but it also serves as a centralized hub for all the information your guests might need leading up to your big day. Our top pick is Zola.

• Say Yes to the Dress

Say yes to the dress by researching bridal shops and styles that inspire you. Schedule fittings to try on a variety of gowns and discover what looks and feels best on you. Bring along your closest friends and family members to help you find the one! It is important to start this process at least 8 months out to ensure it arrives in time and your seamstress can make any necessary alterations.

• Send Save-the-Dates 

Once you've secured your venue, it’s time to think about sending out Save the Date! These cards should include your wedding date and location, giving guests plenty of time to plan, especially if they're traveling for your celebration. Sending them out sooner rather than later is key to ensuring everyone can attend. We recommend sending these out 10-12 months in advance if possible. 

• Register for Gifts

After securing your date and venue, create a gift registry. This is a fun way to ensure you receive items that you truly want for your new life together. Consider adding gifts at different price points to ensure all your guests have plenty of options to choose from. Another great idea is creating a honeymoon fund for guests to contribute towards fun excursions and activities on your honeymoon. 

• Avoid Procrastination

Starting your planning early is key! This gives you plenty of time to explore options, compare vendors, and make thoughtful decisions without the pressure of deadlines. Plus, as your wedding date approaches, having everything organized in advance helps you stay stress-free during those final weeks leading up to the celebration! Hiring a skilled wedding planner or coordinator (like BTV) will help you stay on track.

• Enjoy the Process Together

Above all, remember that this is a journey you’re embarking on together. Make time for fun dates, planning sessions, and moments to share in the excitement of your future, celebrating every little milestone along the way. Engagement is a brief, yet beautiful chapter in your love story, so be sure to savor each moment!