Just got engaged? 10 things you need to do first
So you're engaged? Congratulations! While you're riding high on the wave of excitement and happily gazing at your ring, you're probably starting to think about what to do next. How do you start planning a wedding? What should you do first?
Well you're certainly in the right place to get all the advice and inspiration you need here at Wedding Sparrow, from real weddings and practical planning advice, to bridal style and finding the perfect vendor team. To set you off in the right direction, we asked California wedding planner and Fine Art Curation member H & L Lovely Creations for the 10 things you need to do first after you've got engaged.
1. Enjoy the moment
It's so tempting to start planning your wedding straight away but in most cases, there's no rush. Take time to enjoy the loved up feeling of just being engaged and celebrate that, whether it's a meal out with your families; a bigger celebration like an engagement party or a romantic engagement photoshoot.
2. Discuss your dream wedding
Share thoughts with each other about what your dream wedding day looks like to see if you're both on the same page or there are any areas you might need to compromise on. Are you thinking a big traditional wedding or a more intimate celebration? Would you consider eloping? What season appeals to you? Are you thinking a formal affair or a more relaxed occasion? All this will lead you to...
3. Create your wedding budget
It's important to get an idea of how much you can spend early on to avoid any disappointment or difficult conversations further down the line. If parents are contributing, ask them to confirm a figure, or if you're funding it yourselves, work out how much you can realistically spend taking into account other life plans, such as purchasing property or starting a family.
4. Narrow your date or season
When you think of your wedding day, are you sipping champagne in the sunshine or perhaps relaxing in a cosy candle-lit setting while the snow falls outside? If you're not immediately certain on a date, it helps to define the season and you can then be flexible on the date based on the availability of your ideal planner and venue.
5. Hire a wedding planner
We advise booking your wedding planner before any other vendors because a great planner will be able to help you choose a venue that suits your requirements and hire a creative, professional and experienced vendor team. You'll save yourself a huge amount of time and effort if you focus on finding a great planner first, who you connect with and shares your dream wedding aesthetic.
6. Draft your guest list
You'll need an idea of how many guests you'll be inviting to the big day before you start looking at venues because you'll need to know if the capacity works for you. Remember, your parents might want to add people to the list so it's wise to ask them early on.
7. Gather wedding inspiration
There's no shortage of wedding inspiration around, from Pinterest and Instagram, to magazines and blogs like Wedding Sparrow. Start saving the images you are drawn to and you should start to see a pattern emerge of the colors and ideas that capture the look you love.
8. Choose your wedding venue
Now you have your planner, your budget, guest count and a feel for the overall vibe you have in mind, it's time to start the search to find your dream wedding venue. There are many elements to consider, such as will you be having the ceremony and reception at the same place or separate venues? Are you planning an and indoor or outdoor celebration? Do you need a plan B incase of bad weather? Consider the catering, decor and accommodation options and whether they are provided by the venue or you need to arrange them separately.
9. Hire your wedding photographer
Your wedding photographer is one of the most important vendors as they'll thoughtfully document your day and ultimately determine how your wedding will be remembered for years to come. Check out our pick of the best fine art film wedding photographers and top tips to choose a great one.
10. Select your bridal party
Can you just grab your closest friends, assign them a bridal title, and call it a day? Well yes, you can, but it pays to give more thought to who you'd like beside you on the big day. From reliability and personalities, budget and family politics, take time to think carefully before you decide on the final line-up of your bridal patty.
Vendor details
Photographer: Redamancy Photo Film | Film Lab: Goodman | Stylist / Planner: H & L Lovely Creations | Floral designer: Olivewood Florals | Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Accessories: Glory Bridal | Venue: Filoli Historical Gardens | Cake designer: Cocoaberry Cake Co. | Hair and make-up: Veronica Lara | Calligrapher: Blushing Calligraphy | Jewelry: Untamed Petals | Shoes: Something Bleu
