Ultimate Engagement Checklist: What to Do After Saying “Yes”
Getting engaged is a major milestone in any relationship and is often considered one of the happiest moments of a couple’s life. However, once the initial excitement of the proposal has subsided, it’s time to start thinking about the next steps. From setting a budget and choosing a date to selecting a venue and hiring vendors, there are many things to consider when planning a wedding.
That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate engagement checklist to help you stay organized and on track during this exciting time. Whether you’re a bride or groom-to-be, this checklist will guide you through the most important tasks that need to be done after you say “yes.” So, sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the wedding of your dreams!
Celebrate your engagement
Congratulations on your engagement! This is a special moment and deserves to be celebrated. Take some time to celebrate with your partner and enjoy this exciting time together. You’ll want to reminisce about the proposal and relive the moment, so take lots of pictures and videos to capture this memory.
Consider having an engagement party to share the news with family and close friends. This is a great opportunity to celebrate your love and the start of your journey together. You can choose a small gathering or a large party, whatever fits your style and preferences.
Another way to celebrate your engagement is by taking a romantic trip together. This can be a great way to relax and spend quality time together before diving into wedding planning. Plus, it’s a great way to create some amazing memories you’ll cherish for years.
Remember that this is your engagement, and you should celebrate it in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you and your partner. Whether it’s a quiet night in or a grand celebration, savor this special moment and enjoy each other’s company.
Insure your engagement ring
Congratulations on saying “yes” to the love of your life! One of the first things you should do after getting engaged is to insure your engagement ring. An engagement ring is not only a symbol of love and commitment, but it’s also a significant financial investment.
While you may hope nothing will happen to your ring, accidents can happen. You could lose it, it could be stolen, or it could get damaged. Insurance will give you peace of mind knowing you’re covered if anything happens to your ring.
When insuring your engagement ring, appraise it by a certified gemologist or jewelry appraiser. This will determine the ring’s value and ensure you get the right coverage. You should also consider what kind of coverage you want. Some insurance policies cover loss, theft, and damage, while others only cover certain situations.
It’s important to note that your engagement ring may not be covered under your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, so it’s best to get a separate policy specifically for your ring. Shop for different insurance providers to find the best coverage for your needs and budget.
Insuring your engagement ring may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of wedding planning, but it’s important. Protect your investment and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your ring is covered.
Decide on a budget for your wedding
Deciding on a budget for your wedding can be daunting, but it is essential to planning your big day. Before you start making any decisions about the size or scope of your wedding, it’s important to figure out what you can realistically afford. There’s no point in dreaming of a grandiose wedding if it will leave you in debt for years.
First, sit down with your partner and honestly discuss your finances. Consider your income, savings, and any other financial obligations. From there, you can allocate funds to different aspects of your wedding, such as venue, catering, decorations, and entertainment.
Remember to be flexible with your budget, as unexpected expenses can pop up. Prioritizing what’s most important to you and your partner is important. If you agree that a gorgeous venue is a must-have, allocate more of your budget and cut back on other areas.
Once you have a solid budget, you can move forward confidently, knowing that you are making informed decisions about your wedding planning to allow you to enjoy your special day without breaking the bank.
Determine your wedding date and venue
One of the most important steps after getting engaged is determining your wedding date and venue. This is crucial because it will help you plan out all the other details of your wedding and set the tone for the entire event.
First, consider the season you would like to get married and whether you want an indoor or outdoor wedding. This will help you narrow down your options for choosing a venue.
Once you have a rough idea of when and where you want to get married, start researching potential venues. Look at their availability for your desired date and consider location, capacity, and amenities.
When visiting venues, be sure to ask plenty of questions and note any restrictions or requirements they may have. It’s also a good idea to take photos and measurements to visualize better how everything will come together on the big day.
Once you have chosen your venue, secure your wedding date with a deposit and get everything in writing. This will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is confirmed.
Hire a wedding planner
Planning a wedding is a big task and can be stressful at times. Hiring a wedding planner could be a great option if you feel overwhelmed or don’t have the time to plan everything yourself. Wedding planners can help with everything from finding the perfect venue to selecting vendors to manage the day-of tasks.
When choosing a wedding planner, make sure to do your research and find someone who fits your style and budget. Look at their portfolio, read reviews from past clients, and set up a consultation to ensure you feel comfortable working with them.
Having a wedding planner can also help relieve stress during the planning process and on the big day. They can handle any issues and ensure that everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day with your partner and loved ones.
Create a wedding website
Creating a wedding website is a great way to keep your guests informed and engaged throughout the wedding planning process. It’s a one-stop shop for all the information they need regarding your big day, so they don’t have to ask you for details.
Your wedding website should include all the important details about the ceremony and reception, such as the date, time, and location. You can also include information about your wedding party, photos of the two of you, and other special details about the big day.
Another great feature of a wedding website is the ability to collect RSVPs online. This makes it easy for guests to RSVP and for you to keep track of who is coming and who isn’t.
You can also use your wedding website to share your gift registry so guests know what you’d like for your wedding gifts. And, if you’re having a destination wedding, you can use your website to share travel information and recommendations for your guests.
Choose your bridal party
Choosing your bridal party is an exciting and important part of your wedding planning process. These people will stand by your side, support you, and ensure your big day goes off without a hitch. But how do you choose who to include in your bridal party?
First, consider the people who are closest to you. This includes your siblings, best friends, cousins, or close family members. Think about who you can rely on for emotional support, who will be there to help with wedding planning tasks, and who will be a calming presence on the big day.
You should also consider the size of your wedding and your personal preferences. If you’re having a big wedding, you may want a larger bridal party to match. A smaller bridal party may be better if you prefer a more intimate affair.
Don’t forget also to consider your partner’s preferences. Choosing a bridal party you and your partner are comfortable with is important. You may choose a joint bridal or separate party for the bride and groom.
Once you’ve chosen your bridal party, it’s important to ask them specially and memorably. This could be through a heartfelt conversation, a thoughtful gift, or even a fun surprise. Make sure to communicate your expectations and responsibilities for the bridal party, and don’t forget to show your appreciation for their support throughout the wedding planning process.
Buy your wedding dress and bridal accessories
Buying your wedding dress and bridal accessories is an exciting part of wedding planning. It’s important to start shopping for your dress as early as possible, as it can take several months to be made and altered to fit perfectly. When shopping for your dress, consider your personal style, the wedding theme, and the venue. You want to find a dress that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
In addition to your dress, you’ll also need to consider bridal accessories such as shoes, jewelry, and a veil or headpiece. These accessories can add a personal touch to your wedding day look and complement your dress perfectly. When choosing your accessories, consider your dress’s style, the wedding’s formality, and your personal taste.
Don’t forget to schedule fittings for your dress and accessories to ensure they fit perfectly and make any necessary alterations. It’s also a good idea to bring your accessories to your dress fittings to ensure they all work together seamlessly.
Design and order wedding invitations
Designing and ordering wedding invitations is an important step in wedding planning. Your invitations will set the tone for your big day and give your guests a sneak peek into what they can expect. So, it’s important to choose an invitation that reflects your style and the overall theme of your wedding.
When designing your invitations, you should consider the color scheme, fonts, and wording. These elements should all work together to create a cohesive and visually appealing invitation. You can work with a professional designer or use a template to design your invitations.
Once you’ve designed your invitations, it’s time to order them. It’s important to order your invitations with plenty of time to spare, especially if you’re having them customized. You should also order extra invitations in case of mistakes or last-minute additions to your guest list.
When ordering your invitations, consider any additional stationery you need, such as save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, and thank-you cards. Ordering your stationery at once can help ensure that everything matches and is cohesive.
Hire wedding vendors
Hiring the right wedding vendors can make all the difference in creating the perfect wedding day. It’s important to take the time to research and interview potential vendors to ensure they are the right fit for you and your partner.
Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, and other vendors you may have already hired. You can also check online reviews and ratings to understand their past work and reputation. Once you have a list of potential vendors, schedule consultations to discuss your vision, needs, and budget.
When choosing a caterer, taste their food beforehand to ensure it’s up to your standards. A DJ or band should be able to provide you with a playlist and examples of their previous performances. A florist should be able to show you examples of their work and provide recommendations based on your preferences and budget.
Photography is also an important aspect to consider, as the photos will capture memories that will last a lifetime. Review their portfolio and discuss any special requests or must-have shots.
Remember to read and sign contracts with all vendors to ensure everyone is on the same page and to protect yourself from potential issues. With the right vendors on board, your wedding day will be remembered.
Create a wedding registry
Creating a wedding registry is an exciting part of wedding planning. It allows couples to select items they would like to receive as gifts from their guests. When creating a registry, it’s important to select items that fit your style and needs. Consider items you love and practical items useful in your new life together.
There are many options for creating a wedding registry. You can choose to register at a brick-and-mortar store or an online retailer. Websites like Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Zola offer registry services that allow you to easily add items to your list and share it with your guests.
When creating your registry, provide various options at different price points to accommodate all guests’ budgets. Don’t be afraid to register for larger items like furniture or electronics, as some guests may want to pool their money together to purchase a larger gift as a group.
It’s also important to update your registry and add new items as needed. Be sure to send thank you notes to your guests after the wedding to express gratitude for their thoughtful gifts. Creating a wedding registry can be a fun and enjoyable part of the wedding planning process and allows guests to give you gifts you will cherish for years.
Send out save-the-date cards
Once you have said “Yes” to your partner, it’s time to start planning the wedding. One of the first things you should do is send out save-the-date cards to your guests. This is especially important if you are having a destination wedding or if many of your guests must travel to attend your wedding.
Save-the-date cards are typically sent out six to eight months before the wedding. They should include the names of the couple getting married, the date and location of the wedding, and a message asking guests to save the date. You can also include information about accommodations, travel arrangements, and any other important details that your guests should know.
Save-the-date cards can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. You can create your cards using a template or hire a professional designer to create a custom design that reflects your wedding theme and style.
Plan your honeymoon
Planning your honeymoon is an exciting task that should be tackled soon. The earlier you start, the better. It’s important to decide on a budget, location, and length of stay. You should also make sure to take into consideration the time of year you’ll be traveling, as this can affect pricing and availability.
Start by researching potential destinations and accommodations. Look at reviews, photos, and amenities to help decide which options are right for you. Consider using a travel agent to help arrange your travel details, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding or a multi-stop honeymoon.
When planning your honeymoon, it’s important to consider what activities and experiences you want to have. Do you want to lounge on a beach, explore a new city, or explore an adventure? Make a list of activities that interest you and ensure they’re available at your chosen location.
Don’t forget to also plan for any necessary travel documents such as passports, visas, or vaccinations. It’s better to take care of these things in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.
Arrange transportation for the wedding day
Arranging transportation for the wedding day is an essential part of making sure your big day goes smoothly. You don’t want to be worrying about how you’re going to get from the ceremony to the reception or how your guests are going to get from the hotel to the venue.
Many options are available for wedding day transportation, from traditional limousines to vintage cars, party buses, or even horse-drawn carriages. The type of transportation you choose will depend on your personal style, budget, and the size of your wedding party.
When planning your transportation, consider the logistics of the day. How many trips will be needed? Will there be multiple stops? What is the distance between venues? It’s important to factor in enough time for transportation to avoid any delays.
Don’t forget to consider your guests’ transportation needs as well. If you have out-of-town guests, consider providing a shuttle service between the hotel and the wedding venue. This will not only make it easier for them to get around but will also ensure their safety after a night of celebrating.
Most importantly, book your transportation well in advance to ensure availability and avoid any last-minute stress. By taking care of transportation early on, you can relax on your wedding day, knowing everything is taken care of.
Confirm all plans and details with vendors
After saying “yes” to your engagement, the next steps involve planning your wedding day. This is an exciting time and can be overwhelming, especially when working with vendors.
It’s important to remember that vendors are a crucial part of your wedding day, and you want to ensure everyone is on the same page and understands what is expected of them. This is why it’s important to confirm all plans and details with your vendors before the big day.
Start by contacting each vendor and confirming all the details you have agreed upon, including the date and time of the wedding, the location, and any special requests you have made. You should also confirm the services that they will be providing, such as the type of flowers, the style of photography, and the menu options.
It’s also a good idea to establish a timeline for the day with your vendors so everyone knows when they need to arrive, set up, and begin their services. This will help ensure that everything runs smoothly on the wedding day.
Finally, make sure to provide your vendors with clear and detailed instructions, including any special requests or preferences that you may have. This will help ensure everyone is on the same page and that your wedding day is everything you dreamed it would be.
Finalize the guest list and seating chart
Now that you’ve said “yes” to your engagement, it’s time to start planning the big day! One of the most important aspects of wedding planning is finalizing the guest list and seating chart. This can be a daunting task, but with a little organization, it can be done efficiently and without too much stress.
First, you’ll want to decide on the total number of guests you invite. This will help you choose the size of your venue and determine your budget for catering, rentals, and other wedding expenses. Once you have a guest count in mind, you can start creating your guest list.
It’s important to involve your partner in this process to ensure you’re both on the same page about who you want to invite. Start by listing family members, close friends, and coworkers. Then, consider any additional guests you may want to invite, such as childhood friends or distant relatives.
Once you have a preliminary guest list, it’s time to start organizing it into a seating chart. Start by grouping guests into categories, such as family, friends, and coworkers. Then, determine where each group will be seated and with whom they will be sitting.
When creating your seating chart, remember any potential conflicts or issues between guests. Try to seat guests who get along well and avoid seating guests who may not see eye-to-eye. It’s also a good idea to seat older guests near the front of the room and away from any loud music or noise.
Enjoy your big day!
Congratulations on your engagement! We hope you found our ultimate engagement checklist useful in planning your wedding. Remember, this is a special time in your life, and you should enjoy it as much as possible. With our comprehensive checklist, you’ll be able to keep track of everything you need to do to make your special day perfect. We wish you all the best in planning your wedding and a lifetime of love and happiness together! Don’t forget to tag us in your wedding pictures on social media so we can celebrate with you!