Getting engaged is an exciting time! After you've popped the champagne and said "yes," it's time to start planning your big day. While you might be tempted to wait a bit before diving into the nitty-gritty, there are actually a few things you should do sooner rather than later. Read on for our top 5 things to check off your wedding to-do list ASAP.
Photo by Kayley Alexa Photography
1. Set a Budget
One of the very first things you should do after getting engaged is set a budget. This will help guide all of your subsequent decisions, from choosing a venue to selecting your wedding cake. Sit down with your fiance and talk about what you're both comfortable spending. Keep in mind that the average cost of a wedding in the United States is around $30,000, so you may need to adjust your expectations accordingly.
Photo by Indigo West
2. Pick a Date
The date of your wedding can have a big impact on everything from availability of venues to the cost of vendor services. If there's a particular date or time of year that you're hoping to tie the knot, start looking into availability as soon as possible. You may need to be flexible with your date in order to get everything booked in time, but it's better to have an idea of when you're shooting for before starting your search in earnest.
Photo by Kayley Alexa Photography
3. Choose Your Wedding Party
Assemble your team of bridesmaids and groomsmen! These are the people who will be by your side throughout the planning process and on the big day itself, so choose wisely. Pick friends or family members who you know will be supportive and helpful, and make sure they're people you can rely on—you don't want any drama leading up to your wedding day.
Photo by Indigo West
4. Start Looking at Venues
The venue is one of the most important aspects of your wedding, so it's crucial to start looking as early as possible. Once you have an idea of how many people you'll be inviting and what kind of atmosphere you're hoping for, you can start narrowing down your choices. Be sure to schedule tours and consultations so you can get a feel for each venue in person before making a decision.
Photo by Kayley Alexa Photography
5. Book Your Vendors
Wedding vendors can get booked up months (or even years) in advance, especially if you're getting married during peak season or on a popular day like Saturday. If there's a particular photographer, band, or caterer that you really want for your wedding, contact them as soon as possible to inquire about availability and reserve their services. That way, you can rest assured knowing that they're already booked for your big day!
Photo by Indigo West
There's no need to wait until everything is perfect to start planning your dream wedding—the sooner you get started, the better! These five things are essential if you want everything to go smoothly leading up to your big day. With careful planning and early booking, you can avoid any last-minute surprises or stressful situations. All that's left now is to enjoy this special time with your fiancé and begin excitedly planning for one of the best days of your life!
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