I’M ENGAGED…NOW WHAT?

Congratulations on your engagement! Many brides-to-be are excited to start posting ring selfies on social media and diving headfirst into wedding planning. But wait! Below are 10 steps to keep the excitement going and frustration at bay.

ENJOY THE MOMENT

Before sharing the news with the world and creating your wedding Pinterest
board; take some time to savor the moment with your new fiancé. Your fiancé
has planned this engagement for weeks. Appreciate the intimacy of this time
between the two of you.

ANNOUNCE TO FAMILY & CLOSE FRIENDS BEFORE SOCIAL MEDIA

Epic fail…your sister found out about your engagement from your #bridetobe post. Depending on your relationship; it could be very hurtful to family and special friends to learn of your engagement from social media or from someone
who saw it on social media. Following your engagement; call both sets of parents, close relatives, and special friends. After personally notifying all your VIPs, post away! #fiancé #engaged #misstomrs

GET A MANICURE

Make sure your nails and hands are post-worthy by getting a manicure. You
can DIY or visit your local nail salon/spa. Your left hand will be the center of
attention for the next few months as everyone will want to see “The Ring”.

HAVE YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING SIZED & INSURED

Your new fiancé may have found the perfect ring, but it may not be the perfect fit. No worries! Promptly, take your ring to a jeweler to have it sized. You should also guard your new fiancé’s investment by insuring your engagement
ring. This adds protection should your ring be lost, stolen or damaged. Speak with your insurance agent or search online for reputable policies.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET

Discussing money can be a difficult topic for many couples. As you begin your life together, finances will be one of the most important discussions you will have. Before you begin wedding planning, it is important to set a realistic budget for your event. You must be honest about what you want to spend vs. what you have to spend. If family members are contributing, speak with them early about what their contributions will be.

DETERMINE A GUEST COUNT

Do you want an intimate, micro wedding with close loved ones? Or a huge party with everyone who is important to you and your fiancé? Maybe you would like to be somewhere in between. Will children be invited? What about plus-ones? You and your fiancé should discuss what type of wedding you would like and of course what your budget will allow. Keep in mind the meal is not the only cost associated with your guest list. Table linens, floral arrangements, stationery, place settings, and chairs will all impact the budget. Do not commit to inviting anyone until the guest list is finalized.

SELECT A WEDDING PARTY

When selecting your “I Do Crew” it is important to choose wisely. Take your time to think about who you want to ask. Determine what your expectations are of your wedding party. Will they be expected to participate in several pre-wedding activities or simply show up in their selected dresses/suits on the wedding day? Also, consider your guest count when deciding on the number in your party. Choose fun but dependable friends and family. Bridesmaid proposals or wedding party mixer events have become popular.

GATHER INSPIRATION

Now is the time to start your Pinterest board, search weddings online and follow your favorite wedding vendors (like SDS Events) to get inspiration. Begin to gather themes, color schemes, wedding dress designs and décor that you like. Don’t forget to include your fiancé!

HIRE A FULL-SERVICE WEDDING PLANNING SERVICE

Planning one of the most important days of your life should be enjoyable and stress-free. Allowing a professional to assist you is the best way to ensure it is. A wedding planner will make certain your wedding day aligns with your vision, will make the most of your budget, keeps the planning process on track, has relationships with reputable vendors (and special discounted pricing), and will coordinate each aspect of your wedding day down to the minute. SDS Events has 4 wedding packages to meet the level of planning desired and budget. A great wedding planner will bring your vision to life and exceed your expectations.

BE A TEAM

Don’t forget there are two people getting married and your fiancé should be as included in the process as he/she is comfortable with. Set priorities and non-negotiables as a couple and back each other up when challenges present. Ensure each other’s desires are being fulfilled on your wedding day. Remember, marriage is all about compromise. Continue to date throughout the planning process and have times when wedding planning is not the topic of discussion. HAPPY PLANNING!