What to Do After You’re Engaged: The Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Wedding Planning

Congratulations, you’re engaged! Whether you’ve been dreaming of this day for years or it took you by surprise, the excitement is real. Now that you’ve said "yes," it's time to begin planning your dream wedding. But where do you start? Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps and mindset, it can also be an incredibly fun and memorable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started on your wedding planning journey.

1. Take a Moment to Enjoy the Engagement

Before diving into the planning, take a moment to soak it all in. This is one of the most exciting times in your life, and it’s important to celebrate with your partner, family, and friends. Host an engagement party or simply spend quality time together enjoying this milestone before the whirlwind of planning begins.

2. Discuss Your Wedding Vision

The first real step in wedding planning is to sit down with your partner and discuss what you both envision for your wedding day. Think about the overall vibe, style, and setting you want. Do you imagine an intimate backyard ceremony or a grand ballroom reception? It’s essential to be on the same page about your preferences, as this will guide the rest of the planning process.

3. Set Your Budget

Creating a budget is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. Your budget will determine the size, style, and scale of your event, so it’s crucial to establish it early. Talk with your partner and any family members who may be contributing to the wedding costs. Once you have a budget, break it down into categories like venue, catering, photography, attire, and entertainment to help keep spending on track.

4. Build a Guest List

Next, you’ll want to start building your guest list. This can be a tricky task as it directly affects your budget and the type of venue you’ll need. Consider the size of your ideal wedding—do you prefer a small, intimate gathering or a large, lively celebration? Keep in mind that the more guests you invite, the higher your costs will be.

5. Choose a Date

Selecting a wedding date is another crucial step. It’s best to choose a few potential dates to give you some flexibility when booking vendors and your venue. Consider factors like season, availability of your desired venue, and any significant dates for you as a couple. You’ll also want to consider the schedules of important family members and guests to ensure your loved ones can attend.

6. Research and Book Your Venue

The venue sets the tone for your wedding day and is typically one of the largest expenses. Do your research, tour different locations, and read reviews to find the perfect spot for your celebration. Whether you choose a rustic barn, an elegant ballroom, or a beachfront resort, make sure it aligns with your vision, guest count, and budget.

7. Hire a Wedding Planner or Coordinator

Hiring a wedding planner can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the planning process. A planner or day-of coordinator can help with vendor selection, budgeting, and timelines, ensuring that your day runs smoothly. If you’re someone who loves the idea of handling details but wants to enjoy the day stress-free, look into day-of coordination services like the ones we offer at Events by Ellie Bean. We specialize in handling those last-minute details, so you can focus on celebrating with your loved ones.

8. Start Looking at Vendors

Once you have a venue and date locked in, it’s time to start thinking about the key vendors who will help bring your wedding to life. This includes caterers, photographers, florists, DJs or bands, and officiants. Prioritize the vendors who book up quickly (like photographers and caterers) and reach out for quotes and availability early.

9. Shop for Your Wedding Attire

Shopping for wedding attire can be one of the most exciting parts of planning! Whether you’re looking for a classic gown, a chic suit, or something more unique, start shopping early to give yourself time for fittings and alterations. Don’t forget to plan for accessories, shoes, and attire for the wedding party.

10. Stay Organized

With so many moving parts, it’s essential to stay organized throughout the planning process. Create a wedding planning timeline or checklist to help keep track of tasks and deadlines. Use a wedding planning app, Google Docs, or even an old-fashioned notebook to keep everything in one place. Being organized will help ensure that no detail falls through the cracks.

11. Enjoy the Journey

Wedding planning can feel overwhelming at times, but remember to enjoy the journey. This process is about celebrating your love and partnership, so don’t stress too much over the little details. Take time to step back, enjoy being engaged, and look forward to the amazing day you’re creating together.

Looking for expert help to bring your wedding vision to life? At Events by Ellie Bean, we take the stress out of planning and turn your dream day into reality! Whether you need full-service planning or day-of coordination, we've got you covered. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free consultation — let's make your wedding unforgettable! 💍✨