You’re Engaged! Hell Yes!!! *pops that bottle*
now what?
Congratulations, You're Engaged! Now What?
Hey there, lovebirds! 🎉 So, you’ve just had that magical moment where one of you popped the question, and the other said "YES!" Now you're floating on cloud nine, flashing that shiny new ring, and calling everyone you know. But wait... what’s next? Don’t worry, we're here to guide you through the first steps of your wedding planning adventure with a touch of fun and a splash of funky!
Step 1: Find Your Budget—The Foundation of Your Dream Day 💸
Before you start pinning every dress, venue, and donut wall on Pinterest, it's time to talk about the “B” word—budget. I know, I know, talking about money isn't exactly the most romantic part of planning a wedding. But trust us, it's the key to making your dream day a reality without ending up with a sad wallet.
How to set a budget:
Start with the Big Picture: Think about what’s most important to you. Is it the venue, the dress, the food, or maybe the epic party vibes? Prioritize what matters most.
Get Real About Costs: Research the average costs in your area for venues, photographers (like yours truly 😉), caterers, etc.
Include a Cushion: Set aside a little extra for unexpected expenses (because let’s be real, they always pop up).
Be Honest: Have a candid chat about who’s contributing and how much. Whether it's just the two of you or a whole family affair, transparency is key.
With your budget set, you’ll have a clear picture of what you can afford, and you can prioritize what’s truly important. Remember, the most important thing is celebrating your love—everything else is just icing on the cake!
Step 2: Secure Your Venue—The Stage for Your Love Story 🎭
Alright, now that you've got a budget, it's time to set the stage for your big day. Finding the perfect venue is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it’s gotta be the right fit, feel fabulous, and match your vibe!
Tips for Choosing the Right Venue:
Start Early: Venues can book up fast, especially during peak wedding seasons. Get on it as soon as possible!
Consider Your Style: Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn, a chic city loft, a beachside soiree, or a woodland fairy-tale, make sure the venue matches your vibe.
Guest List Considerations: Think about how many people you want to invite and make sure the venue can comfortably accommodate them.
Location, Location, Location: Is it easy for guests to get to? Are there accommodations nearby? Think about the logistics for your guests.
Ask About the Details: What’s included in the rental fee? Are there restrictions (like noise ordinances)? Can you bring in your own vendors?
Once you’ve locked down the venue, everything else will start falling into place. Plus, having a date and location means you can start thinking about all the fun details—like choosing your photographer (wink, wink) and planning the décor!
Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Journey! 🎈
Wedding planning can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster—exciting, thrilling, and a little bit terrifying all at once. But remember, it’s all about celebrating your love and commitment. So take a deep breath, keep the fun alive, and enjoy every moment. And if you ever need a break from the planning hustle, grab some popcorn, cozy up, and watch a good rom-com—because love stories are the best stories, and yours is just beginning!
And hey, speaking of capturing love stories, if you're looking for a photographer who can catch all those special moments (and make you look like rockstars), you know where to find us. 😉 Let's make some magic together!
Cheers to love, laughter, and the best wedding ever! 💕