Just Got Engaged? Here’s Exactly What to Do Next (Without Losing Your Mind)
Just Got Engaged? Yay! Now What?!
You’re officially engaged. AHHH! Cue the happy tears, celebratory champagne, and at least one hundred glances at your ring under different lighting. It’s one of the most exciting moments of your life… until the panic sets in.
“Wait… now I have to actually plan this thing?!” 😳🫠
Yep. You’re not alone. Nearly every couple hits that “oh shit” moment. So here’s your simple guide to what to do after getting engaged, so you can go from overwhelmed to organized.
1. Set Your Wedding Budget
Before you pick colors, cakes, or a cute signature cocktail name decide how much you’re willing to spend overall. Be realistic, get on the same page as your partner, and figure out if anyone else is contributing to your budget.
Your budget will shape everything from guest count to your choice of venue, vendors, and even timeline.
2. Choose What Kind of Wedding You Want
Do you picture a giant party with all your friends and family? A cozy backyard micro wedding? A destination elopement just for the two of you? This is where your budget will come into play as well. Weather you have a smaller budget or a larger budget, the type of wedding you will be able to have will be effected by cost and budget.
Get clear on the vibe, location, and size of your day. Then, choose a date (or at least a season) and make a rough guest list. This will help narrow down your venue and vendor choices quickly.
Once you have done this, do a rough budget split for your main costs. Venue, photo/video, food, transportation(if needed), decor, etc.
3. Create a Pinterest Board
Now the fun part: start dreaming!
Pin everything that speaks to you. Benue styles, outfits, colour schemes, floral ideas, signage, and fun touches. Thinking destination? Start looking at beaches, castles, whatever your vibe may be! Even if it feels random at first, patterns will start to emerge. This step will also help when you're talking with vendors and designers.
4. Book Your Key Wedding Vendors Early
This one is crucial. Many popular vendors book out 12–24 (maybe even longer) months in advance, especially photographers (👋 hi!), videographers, venues, and hair & makeup artists.
Here’s what to lock in ASAP:
Venue
Photographer & Videographer
Hair & Makeup Artists (and start trials!)
Even if your date is far out, don’t wait to inquire and secure contracts.
Other things to get started on are; dress/tux shopping, caterers, dj’s and wedding planners/coordinators.
5. Decide if You Want a Wedding Planner
If you’re hiring a planner, they’ll typically step in after the major vendors are booked or even earlier to help with those decisions, handling contracts etc.
If you’re DIY-ing the planning, now’s the time to start:
Dress & tux shopping (if you havent)
Finalizing the guest list
Sending save-the-dates or invitations
Coordinating vendor meetings
Getting clear on decor styles and ideas
Bach parties if you plan to have them
Honeymoon ideas
6. Focus on the Details
Once the big stuff is handled, it's time to dive into the fun, tiny things that make your wedding feel yours.
Things like:
Song choices
Signage and decor
Seating charts
Vow writing and ceremony planning
Down time fun
Alcohol or other drinks/snack planning
Any DIY projects that still need to be done
Gifts for anyone
Set up/clean up crews
(Pro tip: I help all my wedding clients build out stress-free timelines for photography too!)
Most Important Reminder: It’s YOUR Day
It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else wants or expects but at the end of the day?
This is your love story. Your celebration. Your rules. Your way.
So wear what you want. Invite who you want. Dance how you want. And if you need a photographer who’s going to support you the whole way. Not just show up on the day, I'd love to help make your day exactly how you envision it to be!