We’re sure you know that a ton goes into wedding planning, but you may be wondering…what comes first? Luckily, we’re here to help. We’ve laid out everything you need to accomplish right after getting engaged. These steps will help you celebrate the occasion, but also set you up for success throughout wedding planning.
1. Share the news!
This is something most couples do instinctively, but the first thing you’ll want to do is tell your friends and family! Give your most cherished loved ones a call or a Facetime to share the big news with them. After you’ve called the most important people in your life, you’re free to share the news with the rest of your circle via social media!
2. Get your ring insured
This isn’t the most fun part of wedding celebrations, but it’s certainly one of the most important! Your ring was an investment that you’ll have for a lifetime, so make sure insurance has your back. You never know what could happen, so protect your ring from theft, damage, and loss by insuring it ASAP. Ring insurance can be surprisingly inexpensive and easy to implement if you add it onto an existing renters insurance policy.
3. Get your ring sized (if needed)
Ring sizing can be tricky, and different styles and metals can have different fits. You may also find that with extended wear, you’d be more comfortable in a larger or smaller size than you initially thought. You’ll be wearing this ring for a lifetime, so make sure it isn’t too tight or about to slip off and get it resized asap. You clearly found the perfect fit with your fiancé, make sure your ring is snug too!
4. Discuss a wedding budget
It’s nearly impossible to start planning if you don’t have a ballpark budget in mind! Depending on who will be paying for the wedding, it’s important to make sure everyone is on the same page with expectations. Setting a budget early will set you up for success throughout wedding planning. Knowing your budget will also help you narrow down the guest list, venues, and vendors right off the bat.
5. Determine wedding size
Putting together a rough draft of a guest list is an essential first step of wedding planning. Without a general headcount, you can’t allocate your budget or pick a venue. Putting together a realistic estimate on the number of guests you’re planning to invite will help everything else fall into place. This number is bound to go through some changes throughout wedding planning and the RSVP period, but a ballpark number will be immensely helpful during planning.
6. Think about wedding dates
Popular vendors get booked quickly! The sooner you set your wedding date, the sooner you’ll be able to start calling dibs on your favorite venue, photographer, and caterer. Not to mention, this is one of the first questions people will start asking you after they hear that you’re engaged! Once you determine when you want to get married, focus first on finding a venue before anything else.
7. Load up on inspiration!
Stock up on wedding magazines and get your Pinterest board out! These can be amazing resources for visualizing your wedding during the planning process. Being able to show your wedding planner or your dress consultant pictures of your inspiration will make the planning process much easier. This way, you’ll be able to visualize your ideas and your vendors will know exactly what you’re looking for.
8. Celebrate!
Whether it’s getting an intimate dinner with your new fiancé or planning an engagement party with family and friends, be sure to take a moment to celebrate the occasion. Planning will be a whirlwind, and while you’ll be married for a lifetime, you’ll only be engaged for a little while. Soak it all in and toast to your new engagement. Congratulations!
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