Yassss you are engaged - how exciting! This is such an amazing, overwhelming, ugly cry, time of your life. Believe me I've been there. So you have the perfect partner, sparkling ring, and bubbly, but what is the next step to the dream wedding? Here are my 5 steps to get you started!
1. Celebrate! Duh.
Take some time to celebrate this incredible event. Pop some champagne, have a party, share the news with family & friends. Enjoy every minute of your engagement. Of course take pictures to remember it all!
2. Decide on Budget & Size of Wedding
Before you start any planning you need to have a general idea on how big you want your wedding to be, and how much money you have to spend. This will help guide you on Step #3.
3. Choose Your Venue & Date
Popular venues book out super far in advance. It can take 1.5-2 years to get in to some hot venues on a Saturday. Research venues that can hold the number of guests you expect. Take tours and get all of the pricing information. Ask a lot of questions (future blog post on this topic!) and find out all of their availability. Keep in mind events that may be happening on certain weekends for example Badger games, Taste of Madison, etc.
4. Hire a Wedding Planner or Day-of Coordinator
Wedding planners can be so valuable to save you time and money when researching all of your additional vendors. Like venues, we book out a year in advance (if not more than a year!). In addition to vendor recommendations planners can coach you through your budget, make sure you are not missing anything in the planning process, help design your Pinterest perfect wedding, and much more. At the very least I suggest a day-of coordinator to take the stress off of you and your family on your special day!
5. Choose Your Photographer (and videographer if desired)
Photographers also book out very far in advance. You want to remember all of the amazing moments and details of your day because it happens fast! You will be able to look back on your photos for years to come. There are different styles to keep in mind when choosing a photographer: bright & airy, dark & moody, traditional, photojournalist, to name a few. Meet or chat with a couple of your favorites and book soon!
Happy Planning & Congratulations!
