Hooray, you are engaged!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
A lot of couples have been engaged during the holidays, and since engagement season (Between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day) is not yet over a lot more men will be popping that big question. For those of you who have said Yes, take it in, call your relatives, insure your engagement ring, and get ready to start the fun journey.
In our opinion, these are the top tasks to tackle after saying YES!
1. Open A Savings Account:
I know couples don’t think of saving money for a wedding, but it is a must! I usually suggest starting saving the moment you guys decide on working on the next step of your relationship before he even decides to go ring shopping. If you haven’t opened a savings account for the wedding you could still do it now. It is never too early to start saving if getting married is something you want someday. If you are getting financial help for your wedding, make sure the money stays in your savings, or checking (separate from your personal account).
2. Daydream:
It is time to start pinning to your secret boards on Pinterest, and gather ideas on how you want your big day to be. Daydream about your style, if you want a fantasy or just elope. Remember to imagine BIG. Buy lots of Magazines and cut out what you like(make sure you stay organized, buy a binder).
3. Wedding Budget:
When you are done daydreaming it is time to be realistic and find out the numbers you will be working with. The average wedding cost in the US as of now is $33,000 (which totally depends on each couple, guests count and what is needed), so it is important to know your numbers before booking any vendors. If you are one of the lucky ones who have parents that will contribute or pay for the entire wedding, sit down with them and find out how much help they will provide.
4. Set A Date:
It is good to decide on a range of dates, or at least the month you would want to say “I Do”, before touring any venues. You do have to keep in mind that during wedding season things could be more pricey. Saturday is a common wedding day, if you are trying to cut cost, consider a Sunday Brunch affair.
5. Decide On A Wedding Planner:
Book a wedding planner before you make any plans because you will be paying for her expertise and have inside scoops on venues and other vendors. Some couple assumes that they can’t afford a planner, but you will be surprised. So before you decide to go with or without, explore your options. Some planners do offer a free consultation, so make an appointment. You might even just want to opt for an Event Management Service( as some call day-of or month-of planner, which does not exist) as it will allow you to relax and enjoy your day. Remember a planner is here to help you save time, money, and take the stress away.
6. Guest-list:
Start writing down the names of family and friends you would love to share your special day with. Of course ask parents for ideal guest-list, because they might know more family members than you could possibly remember. Ultimately, if you are going over your ideal number, start prioritizing and cutting back.
7. Venue:
It is great to start looking for a venue as soon as you have a date in mind, the best ones get book fast so try booking 1 year in advance. Also try to keep in mind the number of guests you would like to invite, just to make sure the venue could accommodate everyone.
8. Engagement Photos:
It is time to start telling your story. Take some professional photos that you will be used during your celebration and on your wedding site.
9. Create A Wedding Website:
It is great to keep your guests informed on all things wedding and share your story. Some website includes WeddingWire, eWedding, Mywedding, The Knot, Wedsimple.
10. Vendor Selection:
Vendors do book fast, so when you have the date, venue, amount of guests, start contacting your top vendors: Photographers, Coordinator, Florist, Dj/band, these vendors usually get booked first and in advance.
11. Lay Back and Relax:
Remember not to become a bridezilla or a groomzilla, instead enjoy the journey, and go on dates. Don’t give in to all the “Wants” and know how to prioritize. Be thankful for what you have and remember there is a great person out there that wants to spend the rest of their life with you!
Happy Planning!!!!
Photo Credit: Rad Red Creative
If you are interested in hiring a Wedding Planner for your wedding, rather Indian, Jewish, or Western wedding. Let Pea to Tree help in bringing out your vision. Contact us today!
Georgette Casimir is the owner and creative director of Pea to Tree Events. A boutique planning and design company specializing in Multicultural weddings and highly personalized events. PTE is based in Florida and serves all of South Florida, Tampa, Orlando, and worldwide destinations with impeccable and exclusive wedding experiences. Connect with Georgette today at 727-537-0737 or Events@peatotree.com about your special event.
[…] Today is also known for a special day to get engaged, so if your now fiancé/e got down on one knee and pop the question, and you gladly said “Yes!”, We want to wish you nothing but the best in this journey. Today, take it all in, enjoy the time together, tell your family, tell your friends before you start the wedding planning journey. If you are looking to know what to do after you are engaged, read this post here. […]