Just Got Engaged? Here’s Your Pre-Planning Guide
So, you said “yes!”—congratulations! 🎉
That stunning ring on your finger is sparkling, your heart is overflowing, and you’re stepping into one of the most exhilarating chapters of your life. But as the excitement settles, you might be asking yourself: Where do I even begin?
Before timelines, to-do lists, and endless Pinterest inspiration start to feel overwhelming, take a moment to pause, breathe, and savor the joy of committing to your person. Planning your wedding should be a joyful journey—and with the right steps, it can be both manageable and memorable from the very start.
Here’s your essential guide to the first steps after getting engaged, so you can approach wedding planning with confidence and excitement.
1. Define Your Budget – The Foundation of Every Decision
Before booking a venue, securing a photographer, or even setting a date, establishing your overall wedding budget is the crucial first step.
Why start here? Because your budget informs every choice, from venues to vendors. Without it, making realistic decisions—or avoiding disappointment later—becomes much harder.
A simple guideline:
50% of your budget should go toward your venue, catering, and beverages.
50% covers everything else: wedding planner or coordinator, photographer, videographer, entertainment, florals, rentals, attire, stationery, transportation, and more.
💡 Example: If your total wedding budget is $50,000, aim for a venue (including food, beverage, tax, service fees, and rentals) that totals no more than $25,000.
To stay organized and on track, consider using tools like WeddingWire’s Budget Tracker. It’s intuitive, free, and a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your spending in check.
2. Define Your Wedding Style, Season, and Setting
Planning a wedding is about more than just selecting colors—it’s about creating an atmosphere that reflects you as a couple. Before you dive into Pinterest boards or mood collections, take a step back and consider the bigger picture:
Season: Which time of year feels most like your wedding? A blooming spring garden, a sun-soaked summer celebration, a cozy fall coastal sunset, or a magical winter affair?
Time of Day: Will your celebration be a leisurely morning brunch, a vibrant afternoon gathering, or a romantic evening under the stars?
Location & Setting: Picture your ideal backdrop. Do you envision soft sand beneath your feet, a lush garden, a chic city rooftop, or a fully outdoor destination that takes your breath away?
Clarifying these key elements early on will streamline your venue search, guide your vendor selections, and help ensure every detail of your day feels cohesive and intentional.
3. Decide: Wedding Planner or Wedding Coordinator?
While the titles may seem similar, the roles of a Wedding Planner and a Wedding Coordinator are quite different—and choosing the right path early can shape your entire planning experience, including your venue and vendor selections.
Wedding Planner: Your planner is your guide and partner from the very beginning. They help you:
Identify and secure the perfect venue
Establish and manage your budget
Curate and coordinate your vendor team
Develop your event’s overall style and design
Keep your planning process organized and on track
Wedding Coordinator: A coordinator typically comes on board 6–8 weeks before the wedding to:
Finalize logistical details
Create a comprehensive wedding day timeline
Oversee the rehearsal and manage all day-of operations
💡 Tip: If you’re starting from scratch or feel uncertain about the planning process, a full-service Wedding Planner is often a wise investment—it can save you stress, time, and ensure your vision comes to life flawlessly.
4. Begin Your Venue Search
With your budget, vision, and planning support in place, it’s time to secure one of the most pivotal elements of your wedding: the venue. This early decision will influence your wedding date, the overall design, and even vendor availability, making it a foundational step in your planning journey.
Here’s how to get started:
Explore venues using platforms like WeddingWire, The Knot, Google, and Instagram to find options in your preferred area.
Request detailed pricing and clarify what is included in each package.
Schedule site visits—or virtual tours if travel is limited—to experience the space firsthand.
Inquire about available dates, guest capacity, rental hours, and any restrictions that might affect your plans.
Remember: Only after your venue is booked and your date is confirmed can you confidently move forward with securing your vendors—from catering and entertainment to florals and photography—ensuring every detail aligns seamlessly with your vision.
If you like, I can continue with the next steps so the entire blog post reads as a cohesive,your guest list and save-the-dates!
5. Need Guidance? We’re Here for You
Whether you’re envisioning a grand 200-guest celebration or an intimate destination wedding, our goal is to make your planning experience seamless, enjoyable, and full of joy. If you ever feel unsure or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from newly engaged to newlywed.
Take a deep breath. This is your season, your moment, and your celebration. Let’s craft a day that’s as unforgettable as your love.