You've got the love, you've got the bling, now what's next? If you just recently got engaged (hello engagement season!) and aren't sure what to do next, keep reading! Before you dive headfirst into the deep end, we're here to help! We've outlined some of your immediate next steps to ensure your post-engagement bliss continues. Enjoy yourself and your partner, because before you know it you will be scheduling engagement photo sessions, picking our your day-of attire, and going cake tasting. Before that craziness begins, check out what you should do NOW.
Pop the Bubbly!
Before you do anything, take a moment to appreciate what just happened. Someone asked you to spend the rest of your life with them. This is such a special moment. Savor it and celebrate it with the one you love. Whether that is with a bottle of champagne, a nice intimate dinner, or a full blown party, bask in the glory that is that immediate post popped question glow.
Share your happiness!
We would suggest starting with your parents (no brainer!) then moving on to other important immediate family members. After that, move on to other close relatives and friends. Consider who you want to know first and foremost from you two before spreading the news on social media. Sometimes feelings can get hurt if you leave someone out and they have to find out through the grape vine! This can be tricky to tip toe around so just make sure you have your bases covered. Once you do, strut your stuff (and that bling!) all over the web!
Prepare yourself for the hot seat.
Those closest to you are going to immediately ask a million questions. They don't mean to pry or overwhelm, they are just super excited, of course! Be prepped for questions like did you set a date? Do you know where you're getting married? What are your wedding colors? Who is in your bridal party? You definitely don't have to have all of the answers right away, but being able to arm yourself with a few vague answers will satiate those hungry for more. For example, you may be able to quickly decide what time of year works best for the two of you, or what type of venues you are interested in checking out.
Show off that sparkler!
Grab a friend or two and stop by your favorite nail salon for some quality pampering. You will undoubtedly be showing off your gorgeous ring to everyone around, not to mention documenting it on every form of social media imaginable, so you can splurge a little on a perfectly polished mani. Of course you want the world to know that you have an amazing man with fabulous taste in jewelry so feel free to show off a little. This is also the perfect time to rehash the proposal and start chatting about the upcoming big day! Why not throw in a pedicure as well? You deserve it!
Discuss the budget.
We know this isn't a super FUN next step, but it is a necessary one. It's no secret that weddings can get expensive, and quick! Talk to your partner about what is realistic and brainstorm from there. There are so many different ways to design your big day, and not everything has to break the bank! If you set a budget early on and begin to prepare, you are less likely to overspend and may have some extra moolah for a fabulous honeymoon! We're here to help you with that as well, so give us a shout! We can work with you on budgeting for each and every must-have on your wedding day.
Insure that bling!
While we're talking money, don't forget to insure the newest member of your jewelry collection if your future spouse hasn't done so already. So this isn't a super glamorous post engagement step, we get it, but trust us! There is nothing worse than the feeling of losing your newest prized possession (and obsession!) and not being able to replace it. This will give you peace of mind which is something you definitely need when planning a wedding, and is just plain smart! You can usually do this through the jeweler from whom the ring was purchased, or through your homeowners or renter's policy.
Ask for help.
Wedding planners can be such a huge aid in the planning and execution an amazing wedding. They know all of the best vendors, can pull together all of your great ideas, and most important of all, can seriously cut down on your stress levels. From full plans to partial plans to day-of coordination, we can do it all. Lean on us! That's what we're here for. If you're just not quite sure where to start, drop us a line at hello@willowandivyevents.com and we can help you out!
Rely on each other.
Preparing for a wedding can take a lot of time and effort, and the post engagement period can be a flurry of excitement and the feeling that you need to be making moves right away. It is an amazing time, but we can't stress enough how important it is to take a step back and remember why you are doing this. You are in love! Take a breath and spend some time as a couple; get all dressed up and go out on a nice date to celebrate, or plan a day trip to do something you both love. This time is all about you two, so enjoy it!
Photography: Sam & Sola Studio | Ring: Anueva Jewelry | Design & Styling: Willow & Ivy Events | Florals: Leigh & Mitchell