Getting engaged is a thrilling moment in your life! Now that you’ve said yes, it’s time to take a breath and enjoy this special time together. But after all the excitement, you might be wondering what comes next. Here’s a straightforward list of the first ten things you should tackle after getting engaged, so you can start your wedding planning journey on the right foot.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrate your engagement before jumping into planning.
• Share your exciting news with family and friends.
• Set a budget early to guide your decisions.
• Create a timeline to stay organized.
• Enjoy the moment and don’t rush the process.

1. Celebrate Your Engagement

Okay, you’re engaged! That’s amazing! Before you jump into planning every little detail, take a moment. Seriously, just breathe and enjoy this incredible time in your life. It’s easy to get swept up in the first steps after engagement, but don’t let the excitement overshadow the actual moment. YourWeddingLists.com is here to help you with all the planning, but first, celebrate!

Take some time to savor this moment with your partner. Wedding planning can be intense, so make sure you enjoy being engaged before diving in headfirst.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Go out for a special dinner: Head to your favorite restaurant or try somewhere new and fancy. Just enjoy each other’s company.
• Pop some bubbly: Crack open a bottle of champagne or sparkling cider and toast to your future together. It’s a classic for a reason!
• Plan a mini-getaway: Even a night or two away from home can be a great way to celebrate and reconnect before the wedding madness begins. Consider a romantic bed and breakfast or a cozy cabin.

Don’t forget to share the joy! Once you’ve had your special moment, start thinking about how you want to tell your loved ones. YourWeddingLists.com can help you keep track of all those important details later, but for now, focus on celebrating! You could even start thinking about engagement party ideas!

2. Share the News

Okay, so you’re engaged! That’s amazing! Now comes the fun part of telling everyone. But before you blast it all over social media, let’s think about who should hear it first. You don’t want your grandma finding out on Facebook, right?

First things first, tell your closest family and friends. Think parents, siblings, and your ride-or-die besties. A phone call, a visit, or even a video chat is way more personal than a text or a post. Trust me, they’ll appreciate it. There’s nothing like hearing the excitement in your voice when you tell them the big news. Plus, you get to show off your ring in person!

Once your inner circle knows, then you can start thinking about sharing it with the wider world. But remember, a little goes a long way. You don’t want to bombard everyone with engagement overload. Save some of the excitement for the wedding planning updates later on. YourWeddingLists.com will be here to help you with all of that, by the way!

Think of it this way: sharing your engagement news is like baking a cake. You want to savor each ingredient and enjoy the process, not just shove the whole thing in your face at once. Spread the joy, but don’t overdo it.

And hey, while you’re at it, why not start thinking about your wedding registry? YourWeddingLists.com makes it super easy to create a wedding gift list that reflects your style and needs. It’s a great way to get exactly what you want and avoid those awkward duplicate gifts. Plus, it’s fun!

3. Set a Budget

Alright, let’s talk money! I know, I know, it’s not the most fun part of wedding planning, but trust me, it’s super important. Before you get too carried away pinning all those dreamy ideas on Pinterest, you gotta figure out how much you can actually spend. This will save you from major heartache later on. YourWeddingLists.com is here to help you through it!

Setting a budget is like creating a roadmap for your wedding. It helps you stay on track and make smart decisions about where to allocate your funds. Think of it as the foundation upon which all your other plans will be built. So, grab a pen and paper (or your favorite budgeting app) and let’s get started!

First things first, figure out who’s contributing. Are you and your partner paying for everything yourselves? Are your parents or other family members chipping in? Get clear on the total amount you have to work with. This is your starting point. Don’t forget to check out YourWeddingLists.com for some great budgeting tools.

Next, think about your priorities. What’s most important to you both? Is it the venue? The food? The flowers? Allocate more of your budget to the things that matter most, and be willing to compromise on the things that are less important. Remember, it’s all about balance.

A good way to approach this is to list out all the potential wedding expenses and estimate how much each one will cost. Be realistic! It’s always better to overestimate than underestimate. Then, compare your total estimated expenses to your budget. If you’re over budget, start making cuts. If you’re under budget, congratulations! You have some wiggle room.

Don’t forget to factor in unexpected costs. There are always little things that pop up along the way, so it’s a good idea to set aside a buffer for those surprises. A good rule of thumb is to add 5-10% of your total budget for unexpected expenses. And remember, YourWeddingLists.com has tons of tips and tricks for staying on budget.

Finally, track your spending! Keep a close eye on where your money is going, and make sure you’re staying within your budget. There are lots of great budgeting apps and spreadsheets that can help you with this. Or, you can simply use a notebook and pen. Whatever works best for you! Remember to check out wedding budget tips on YourWeddingLists.com.

4. Create a Wedding Timeline

Okay, so you’re engaged! Congrats again! Now, let’s talk about something that might sound a little less exciting but is super important: planning a wedding timeline. Trust me, it’s not as scary as it sounds, and it’ll save you a ton of stress later on. Think of it as your wedding’s roadmap. It helps you stay on track and ensures everything happens when it should. Plus, it’s a great way to keep everyone – from your vendors to your bridal party – on the same page.

Creating a detailed timeline is one of the best things you can do to keep your wedding planning on track.

First things first, sit down with your partner and figure out the big milestones. When do you want to send out save-the-dates? When should you book your venue? When do you need to finalize your guest list? Once you have a general idea of the major deadlines, you can start filling in the smaller details.

Here are a few things to consider when creating your wedding timeline:

• Venue and Vendor Bookings: These are usually the first things you’ll want to lock down, as popular venues and vendors book up quickly. Start researching and reaching out as soon as possible.
• Dress Shopping and Alterations: Finding the perfect dress can take time, and alterations can take even longer. Give yourself plenty of time for this process.
• Invitations and RSVPs: Sending out invitations early enough allows guests ample time to make travel arrangements and respond. Set a clear RSVP deadline to help with catering and seating arrangements.

Remember, this is your wedding. Don’t feel pressured to follow a rigid timeline if it doesn’t work for you. The most important thing is to create a timeline that feels comfortable and manageable for both of you. And don’t forget to factor in some buffer time for unexpected delays or changes.

Don’t forget to check out YourWeddingLists.com for bridal preparation ideas and more tips to help you plan your big day. We also have great wedding budget tips to help you stay on track. Creating a planning a wedding timeline doesn’t have to be stressful, and YourWeddingLists.com is here to help!

5. Start a Guest List

Okay, so you’re engaged! Time to think about who you want to share your big day with. This isn’t just about filling seats; it’s about surrounding yourselves with the people who mean the most to you. It can feel overwhelming, but let’s break it down. Plus, YourWeddingLists.com is here to help you keep it all organized!

First things first, grab a notebook, open a spreadsheet, or use a guest count tool online. Seriously, start writing down names. Don’t worry about cutting it down just yet; just get everyone on paper (or screen).

Think about it this way:

• Who are the must-have people? Immediate family, closest friends – the ones you can’t imagine getting married without.
• Then, who are the people you’d really like to be there? Extended family, good friends you see regularly.
• Finally, who are the people you’d invite if budget and space weren’t an issue? This is where it gets tricky! Co-workers, old friends, plus-ones you don’t know well.

Remember, every guest adds to the cost. More people means a bigger venue, more food, more favors… it all adds up. So, be realistic about what you can afford.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your families, especially if they’re contributing financially. They might have people they’d like to invite, and it’s good to be on the same page from the start. Traditionally, the couple splits the guest list, with each getting half. But, hey, it’s your wedding, so do what feels right for you!

Creating a guest list is a balancing act. You want to celebrate with the people you love, but you also need to stay within your budget. YourWeddingLists.com can help you track your guest list and manage RSVPs, making the process a whole lot easier. So, take a deep breath, grab a pen, and start making that list! Remember to check out YourWeddingLists.com for more tips and tools to help you plan your dream wedding.

6. Choose a Wedding Date

Okay, now for the fun part! Picking your wedding date is a big deal. It’s like, the date everyone will be asking about. Don’t stress, though! Let’s figure out how to nail this down.

First off, think about what time of year you’re dreaming of. Summer wedding? Cozy winter wonderland? This will help narrow things down. Also, consider any dates that are special to you and your partner. Anniversary? First date? These can add a sweet, personal touch.

Remember to check with close family and friends before settling on a date. You want to make sure the VIPs can make it! And hey, don’t forget to check out YourWeddingLists.com for tools to help you keep track of everything. It’s a lifesaver, trust me.

Choosing a date can also impact your budget. Saturday weddings are usually pricier than weekdays or Sundays. So, if you’re looking to save some cash, consider an off-peak day. Plus, some months are more popular than others, which can also affect pricing. January, February, or even August could save a little on the budget.

And speaking of budget, YourWeddingLists.com has some awesome resources to help you stay on track. Seriously, check it out! You can find tips, templates, and all sorts of goodies to make wedding planning a breeze. Happy planning!

7. Research Venues

Okay, so you’ve got a date in mind, maybe even a budget. Now comes the fun part: venue hunting! This is where things start to feel real. It’s also where YourWeddingLists.com can be a lifesaver. Let’s get into it.

First, think about the vibe you’re going for. Rustic barn? Chic city hotel? Beachside bliss? Your venue sets the tone for the whole wedding, so choose wisely. Don’t just jump at the first pretty picture you see online. Do your homework!

Remember, the venue choice will anchor your date and influence your vendor options. It’s one of the earliest and most impactful decisions you’ll make.

Start by making a list of potential spots. Check out wedding websites (like YourWeddingLists.com, of course!), browse social media, and ask friends for recommendations. Once you have a list, dig a little deeper.

Consider these points:

• Location: Is it easy for your guests to get to? Are there hotels nearby? Is it a place that holds special meaning for you and your partner?
• Capacity: Does it fit your guest list comfortably? You don’t want people crammed in like sardines, but you also don’t want a huge, empty space if you’re having a smaller wedding.
• Budget: This is huge. Venues can eat up a big chunk of your wedding budget, so make sure the price is right. And don’t forget to factor in extra costs like catering, rentals, and decorations.

Before you commit, make sure to ask some wedding planning questions. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Pro Tip: Create a spreadsheet to keep track of all the venues you’re considering. Include details like location, capacity, price, and any special features. This will help you compare your options and make a decision.

And most importantly, have fun with it! This is an exciting time, so enjoy the process of finding the perfect place to say “I do.”

8. Plan an Engagement Party

Okay, so you’re engaged! Congrats again! Now, let’s talk parties. An engagement party is a super fun way to celebrate with your loved ones. It’s like a pre-wedding warm-up, and who doesn’t love a good party? Plus, it’s a great excuse to show off that ring! YourWeddingLists.com is here to help you keep track of all the details, so don’t worry about forgetting anything.

Think of it as a chance to gather everyone who’s important to you in one place before the big day.

First things first, decide who is hosting. Is it you, your parents, your future in-laws, or a combination? This will help determine the budget and the overall vibe of the party. Next, think about the guest list. Remember, anyone invited to the engagement party should also be on the wedding guest list. No pressure, but it’s good to start thinking about those numbers now. You can use YourWeddingLists.com to start organizing your wedding guest list right away!

Here are a few things to consider:

• Timing: Ideally, the party should be a few months after the proposal, giving you time to plan, but not too close to the wedding, when you’ll be swamped with final preparations.
• Location: This could be anything from your backyard to a fancy restaurant. Consider your budget and the number of guests when choosing a venue.
• Theme: Do you want a casual backyard BBQ or a more formal cocktail party? A theme can make planning easier and add a fun element to the celebration.

Don’t stress too much about making it perfect. The most important thing is to celebrate your love with the people you care about. Keep it simple, keep it fun, and enjoy the moment!

And don’t forget to add “Plan Engagement Party” to your engagement checklist! YourWeddingLists.com has tons of resources to help you stay organized and on track throughout your entire wedding planning journey. So, relax, have fun, and get ready to celebrate!

9. Consider a Wedding Planner

Okay, so you’re engaged and buzzing with excitement, but the thought of planning a wedding is starting to feel… overwhelming? I get it! That’s where a wedding planner can be a total lifesaver. Seriously, think about it. They handle the stress so you don’t have to.

Wedding planners aren’t just for the super-rich or the super-busy, and they love YourWeddingLists.com (this website) because it makes their job so much easier. They can be a huge help for anyone who wants to enjoy their engagement without turning into a stressed-out zombie. Plus, they can actually save you money in the long run by negotiating deals and avoiding costly mistakes. Check out wedding planner options to see if it’s right for you.

A wedding planner can be your secret weapon, turning wedding stress into wedding bliss. They’re like a fairy godparent, but instead of a pumpkin carriage, they get you the perfect venue and vendors.

Here’s why you might want to consider bringing in a pro:

• They know the vendors: Planners have worked with tons of florists, caterers, and DJs. They can recommend the best ones for your style and budget. You can find all of your wedding vendors on our website.
• They handle the details: From timelines to seating charts, planners take care of all the little things that can drive you crazy.
• They keep you on track: With a planner, you’re less likely to fall behind schedule or forget important tasks. This is especially important if you’re using YourWeddingLists.com to keep track of everything!

So, before you completely lose it trying to DIY your dream wedding, take a breath and think about getting some help. It could be the best decision you make, besides saying “yes!” And remember, YourWeddingLists.com is here to help you stay organized, whether you have a planner or not. We’re all about making your wedding planning journey as smooth as possible. YourWeddingLists.com is your friend!

10. Enjoy the Moment

Okay, you’re engaged! Seriously, before you start wedding planning and get lost in seating charts and floral arrangements, take a breath. This is a special time, and it’s going to fly by. Don’t let the stress of planning steal your joy.

Take a moment (or several!) to just be engaged. Savor this feeling, this excitement, this new chapter with your partner. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember why you’re doing this in the first place: because you’re in love and want to spend your lives together.

Think of it this way:

• Go on a date night where you don’t talk about the wedding at all.
• Do something fun and spontaneous, like a weekend getaway.
• Spend time with your friends and family, celebrating your engagement.

Don’t feel pressured to make decisions right away. Enjoy being engaged for a little while before diving headfirst into planning. It’s okay to take your time and soak it all in. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make the most of it!

And hey, while you’re at it, head over to YourWeddingLists.com for some inspiration when you’re ready. But for now, just enjoy the moment. Seriously, you deserve it! YourWeddingLists.com is here for you when you’re ready to start planning, but right now, just be happy. And remember to check out YourWeddingLists.com for all your wedding registry needs!

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it! The first steps after getting engaged can feel like a whirlwind, but remember to take a breath and enjoy the ride. Celebrate your love, share the news, and start planning at your own pace. It’s all about making this time special for you and your partner. Don’t rush into everything at once—take time to soak in the joy of being engaged. You’ve got this! Cheers to your exciting journey ahead!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first after getting engaged?

First, take a moment to celebrate your engagement! Enjoy this special time with your partner before diving into planning.

How do I share the news of my engagement?

You can tell family and friends in person or through a phone call. Many couples also like to share the news on social media.

What is the best way to set a wedding budget?

Sit down with your partner and discuss how much you can spend. Make a list of all possible expenses to help you stay on track.

How do I create a wedding timeline?

Start by deciding on a wedding date, then list out all the tasks you need to complete leading up to that date.

Should I have an engagement party?

It’s totally up to you! An engagement party is a fun way to celebrate with family and friends, but it’s not required.

When should I start planning my wedding?

You can start planning right after your engagement! Just remember to take your time and enjoy the process.