💍 You Just Got Engaged, What Now? The First Steps After Saying Yes

Congratulations! You’ve just said “yes” to the love of your life, and you’re officially engaged! While it’s an exciting and joyful time, it can also be a little overwhelming. The journey to your wedding day may seem long, but with a bit of planning and organization, you’ll find it to be an unforgettable experience. If you’re wondering what to do next, we’ve got you covered with all the key steps you’ll need to take after getting engaged.

💍 1. Take a Moment to Celebrate

Before diving into wedding planning, take some time to savor the moment. Share your joy with family and friends, have a small engagement celebration, or enjoy a private moment together. You’ve just entered a new chapter, so relish in the excitement of your engagement!

📝 2. Announce Your Engagement

Once the excitement has settled a little, it’s time to share the news with the world! Consider how and when you want to make your announcement. You may choose to:

• Tell immediate family and close friends first before making a public announcement.

• Post on social media with an engagement photo or announcement, but be mindful of the timing.

• Create a custom engagement announcement card or a fun video to send to loved ones.

💍 3. Set a Budget

One of the first things you’ll need to do as a couple is talk about your wedding budget. Be realistic about your expectations, and have an open conversation about how much you can afford and what kind of wedding you envision. This will help guide the rest of your decisions and give you a framework for where to allocate funds. Don’t forget to account for engagement photos, the rings, bridal party gifts, and other smaller costs.

📅 4. Choose a Date

Deciding on a wedding date is one of the most exciting steps, but it can also be tricky. Do you want to get married in the spring, summer, fall, or winter? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Season: Consider what time of year fits your vision and budget. Popular wedding dates may cost more, while off-season months can offer more affordable options.

• Venue Availability: If you have your heart set on a particular venue, check its availability.

• Important Dates: Think about family milestones, holidays, or any significant dates that you want to consider when choosing your wedding day.

💍 5. Start Planning the Guest List

While it’s tempting to think about décor and flowers, a major first step is to sit down with your partner and start planning the guest list. This will determine the size of your wedding, your venue choices, and your overall budget. Consider the following:

• Immediate Family: Start with family members who must be included.

• Close Friends: Include your closest friends and those who are integral to your life.

• Additional Guests: Once you’ve got the key people in mind, consider whether you want a small, intimate celebration or a larger, more elaborate event.

💍 6. Start Researching Venues

Once you have a general idea of your guest list, it’s time to look into venues. The venue will set the tone for your wedding, and securing your location early on is key. Consider:

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Do you prefer a church, barn, beach, or garden wedding? The location can influence many other decisions.

• Size: Does the venue fit the number of guests you plan to invite?

• Budget: Ensure the venue fits within your budget and offers the amenities you need.

💍 7. Consider Your Wedding Style & Theme

Think about the vibe you want for your wedding. Do you want something elegant, rustic, vintage, or boho? Choosing a theme will help guide your decisions about colors, flowers, décor, and overall aesthetic. Take inspiration from:

• Pinterest: Browse for wedding ideas to get a better idea of what you like.

• Magazines & Blogs: Check out wedding magazines or blogs for more inspiration.

• Social Media: Follow wedding planners or florists for ideas and trends.

💍 8. Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress

The wedding dress is often one of the most exciting purchases of the entire wedding planning process. Start researching bridal boutiques and designers that fit your style and budget. Some tips:

• Start Early: Wedding dresses can take months to order, so start looking early.

• Know Your Budget: Have a clear budget in mind to avoid falling in love with a dress outside of your price range.

• Consider Your Wedding Theme: Choose a dress that complements your venue, style, and personality.

💍 9. Hire Your Vendors

After securing the venue, it’s time to book your key wedding vendors. These may include:

• Wedding Planner: If you’re hiring a wedding planner, book them early.

• Photographer & Videographer: Capture the memories of your big day.

• Florist: Start thinking about flowers and what you want for bouquets and centerpieces.

• Caterer: Decide on the type of food you want to serve, whether it’s a plated dinner, buffet, or food stations.

• DJ or Band: Book entertainment that fits the vibe of your wedding.

• Officiant: If you’re getting married in a religious or non-religious ceremony, find someone to officiate.

💍 10. Enjoy the Process

Wedding planning can be stressful at times, but it’s important to take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. Remember, this day is about celebrating the love you and your partner share, and it should reflect who you are as a couple. Don't get caught up in the stress of the details—this is your moment, so make it unforgettable.

💍 Bonus Tip: Consider Your Keepsakes

As you start planning, think about what you want to keep from the day. From your wedding dress to photographs and flowers, preserving parts of your wedding can be a beautiful way to remember the occasion. Some couples even save their wedding florals as keepsakes by preserving them or turning them into artwork—something we specialize in at Hanh Gallery.

🌟 Conclusion: The Adventure Has Just Begun

Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to start the exciting journey of planning your wedding. Take things step by step, and don’t forget to enjoy each moment as you prepare for the biggest day of your life. You’ve already said “yes,” and now it’s time to say “I do” to all the beautiful possibilities that lie ahead.

Happy planning! 💍✨