Your partner is down on one knee, the new bling on your left hand is practically blinding you, and tears are streaming down your face. The day that you’ve been waiting for is finally here and you’re engaged! Once the champagne has been popped and the dust has settled, you might find yourself wondering, “What’s next?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Going from dating, to engaged, to a wedding planning couple can be overwhelming and bring on anxiety for even the toughest of couples. We’re here to help! Here are a few tips from the Vision in White team for your newly engaged self.
Stop and Be Engaged
Almost immediately you’ll start getting questions about dates, colors, seasons, favors, and honeymoons. While everyone who loves you means well, take a step back and remind them that you’re busy being happily engaged and will get to all the planning fun when the time is right. Live in that “just engaged” bubble for a little while and tune out all the other noise. It will all still be there when you’re ready to return to it.
Shout it From the Rooftops
One of the most exciting parts of getting engaged is getting to extend your left hand, wave that bling around, and tell your engagement story on repeat. Before taking a pic for the ‘gram, slapping on a filter, and blasting it out to the world, make sure to tell the people closest to you first. They’ll appreciate the personal message and won’t feel like one of the masses.
Collaborate with your Fiancé
Sit down together and talk about the aspects of the wedding that are truly important to you as well as the ones you’re willing to be more flexible on. Work through any hurdles and be prepared to have a united front against any families with opposing opinions. The best thing you can do during high-stress planning is to stick together!
Set Expectations
Be ready to break a few hearts! You can’t make everyone happy. The most important thing is that the two people getting married leave the wedding happy and fulfilled. When you’re ready to have the hard heart-to-hearts, make sure you’re clear about what you want and what your expectations are for everyone involved.
Get Inspired
Start dipping your toe into the Pinterest pool of bouquets, dresses, cakes, and place settings. Try to keep your ideas clear and consistent but let your imagination get creative! Also, be aware that many of the photos you see on Pinterest are styled shoots and not likely to be in most couples budget. So get ideas but know you may need to tone it down a tad.
Hire a Planner
Even the most type-A personalities can appreciate the help of a seasoned professional. Whether you want a lot of help or a little, it’s always comforting to know someone is there as a sounding board, a tie-breaker, or an extra set of eyes to look over the details. Talk to a few different planners and find the one that fits you best. They’ll be a part of the biggest day of your life after all!
