Engaged? Now What?

Listen, there’s no right or wrong order to planning your wedding but there are a few things that you might want to consider as soon as possible.

There are so many things to think about but let’s try to organize those racing thoughts, even if just for a moment.

Enjoy your engagement.

People tend to jump right into planning mode and do not take the time to appreciate their new engagement.  This is a huge transition; you’re going from girlfriend to soon-to-be wife and no matter how long you’ve been dating, it’s a BIG deal. Revel in the beauty of the moment.

Stay away from social media in the moment.

No matter how tempting it is, don’t do it!  The most respectful thing to do is to share your story with your close family, then share your joy with your close friends, and then with the public (in that order!).  Try your very best to hold off from telling acquaintances until you’ve had the chance to notify the people closest to you.  There’s nothing worse than your mother, aunt or dearest friend finding out your happy news on social media instead of from you personally; it makes it less intimate and may make them feel less valued.

Get that ring sized and insured!

We know that your new fiancé did a lot of research when finding the perfect ring but is it a perfect fit?  If yes, then kudos to him for paying extra special attention to detail.  Most often it’s not the right size and having it re-sized is completely normal (and should be free of charge). Return the ring to the same jeweller and while there, ask the jeweller for an appraisal so that you can get insurance on it.  We realize that nothing can replace the sentimental value but if you should lose it, having insurance is the only way to protect your most valuable asset. You will be able to replace it withouthaving to pay for a new one. It’s usually pretty affordable and youshould consider adding it to your home insurance policy for peace of mind.

Start a wedding savings account.

It’s an easy way to set money aside for the smaller unplanned costs that tend to creep up.  Putting money away from each paycheque to put towards wedding-related expenses only is a smart move.  By doing so, you will have less debt and interest payments to have to worry about after the fact.

Wedding Planner or Go-it-alone?

Do you really think you can do it all on your own or would a wedding planner be more helpful? If you’re feeling overwhelmed already, wedding ‘day-of/month-of’ coordinators and planners do exist and they prove to be useful.  Their services vary in price but might just be worth the reduced stress so that you’ll be able to fully enjoy your day without any worry.

This is YOUR day.

Expect to be bombarded with advice and suggestions by your newly married friends and long-time married family members.  Be polite and graciously thank them for their opinions and then move on with your plans.  This is your special day so create something that you and your fiancé will be happiest with.

Consider a timeline but don’t commit yet.

Do not start booking venues, vendors, or choose your bridal party just yet.  Take the time to truly think about what kind of wedding you want, who you would like to stand by your side, and what your budget will look like.  It’s hard not to rush into wedding planning mode because that is what is expected of you but don’t get ahead of yourself.  Consider a timeline but refrain from committing to a date or any other important items until you’ve really thought it through.  There’s nothing worse then choosing a venue on the whim and then realizing a few months later that it didn’t even come close to your vision or land anywhere near your budget.

Now go and enjoy your engagement! Take some time just to be happy together.  Go on a few dates with your new fiancé.  Talk about your wedding ideas but reflect more on each other.  You are getting married and things tend to get busy… slow down, be excited about new beginnings, appreciate your fiancé, and plan the wedding when you’re truly ready.

Wishing you a happy engagement!!