Firstly, congratulations on your engagement! Crack open a bottle of fizz and have fun celebrating! Then it’s time to get started on wedding planning… and that’s where the real fun begins. Before you panic at the thought of how much there is to organise, don’t worry. We’ve got your back! Here’s what to do now…
1. Tell your friends and family
You’ve just got engaged and you want to shout it from the rooftops! So who better to tell than all of your family and friends? You may prefer to share your news in person with those you are closest to before updating your Facebook status with that all-important ring photo. But the way you announce your big news is completely up to you!
2. Make a checklist!
Think about everything you’ll need to plan and write a huge checklist for yourself – because crossing off each item is not only fun, it’ll give you an idea of how much is left to plan during the timescale before the big day. Get friends and family to help with this or find one online and make it appropriate to your wedding.
3. Think about dates
One of the first things you’ll need to cross off your to-do list is the wedding date. Perhaps there is a date that holds significance to your relationship? Maybe you’ve always wanted a summer wedding? Or perhaps you are set on a bank holiday weekend? Deciding a rough time you’d like to get married will give you something to discuss with potential venues and can help with a final venue shortlist.
4. All about the venue
Next you’ll want to draw up a list of potential venues – think about budget, type of wedding you’d like, location, and again the date. Book as many viewings as possible and take a list of questions with you to ask on the day.
5. Save the dates
It’s a good idea to get your save the dates out soon after you’ve secured your chosen venue to give your guests plenty of notice – especially important if you’re having a short engagement. People may need to book time off work or stay at a hotel the night before if there is a lot of travel involved so this will ensure as many of your guests are able to attend as possible.
That’s part one of what to do once you’re engaged. Come back next week for the second instalment! Already thinking about hair and makeup for the big day? Check out our gallery for inspiration and enquire with us about availability – we’re already taking bookings for 2020 and beyond so it’s never too early!