Congratulations on your engagement! This is an exciting time in your life, filled with love, joy, and the promise of a beautiful future together! Planning a wedding is no easy feat, but hopefully, with this guide, it can make things less stressful. I am Houston Texas Wedding Photographer and I help couples plan their big day, so let’s get started!
First and foremost soak it in and enjoy the moment!
There’s nothing better than saying yes to your best friend forever. Sure, you might want to share the news on social media but try to take a moment to soak it all in. Getting engaged is one of the most special days of your life, so don’t spend it glued to your phone. Celebrate this time doing something you two love!
Share the News
The first thing you’ll want to do is share the exciting news with your loved ones. Start by telling your immediate family and closest friends before making a public announcement. This way, the people closest to you hear the news directly from you.
Engagement Photos
Consider scheduling an engagement photo session. These photos are perfect for sharing your news on social media, using in your wedding invitations, or simply capturing this special time in your life. A professional photographer can help you create beautiful images that reflect your personalities and love story.
2. Set a Date and Budget
Choose a Wedding Date
One of the first decisions you need to make is choosing a wedding date. Think about the season, availability of your preferred venues, and any significant dates that are meaningful to you as a couple. Having a date in mind will help guide the rest of your planning process.
Create a Budget
Establishing a budget is crucial for your wedding planning. Discuss with your partner and any family members contributing to the wedding about what you can afford. Consider all aspects of the wedding, including the venue, catering, photography, attire, and entertainment. A clear budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
3. Start Your Guest List
Draft a Preliminary List
Begin by drafting a preliminary guest list. This will give you an idea of the size of your wedding and help you choose a venue that can accommodate your guests. Remember to include close family, friends, and other important people in your life.
Consider Prioritizing
If you’re working with a limited budget, you may need to prioritize your guest list. Start with your immediate family and closest friends, then move on to extended family, colleagues, and acquaintances. It’s okay to make adjustments as you go along.
4. Research and Choose a Venue
Your venue will set the tone for your entire wedding day, so take your time researching options that align with your vision and guest count. Consider the overall vibe you want — whether it’s romantic and intimate, modern and upscale, or rustic and relaxed.
Make a list of must-haves: Do you want indoor or outdoor spaces? Are you dreaming of a chapel ceremony or a beach backdrop? Does the venue offer packages or require you to bring in your own vendors? Schedule tours, ask questions, and read reviews to get a true feel for each place.
Once you’ve found “the one,” book it as soon as possible — popular venues can fill up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons.
5. Hire Your Key Vendors
Now that you have a date, budget, and guest list started, it’s time to book the vendors who will bring your vision to life! Start with the ones who typically book up the fastest: your photographer, venue (if you haven’t already), planner or coordinator, and any must-have vendors like a videographer, florist, or caterer.
There’s no “right” way to plan a wedding — only what feels right for the two of you. This season of engagement is meant to be full of love, laughter, and anticipation, not stress. So take it one step at a time, ask for help when you need it, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.
And if you’re looking for someone to capture the real, beautiful moments along the way — from your engagement to the big day — I’d love to be part of your story.
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