So you’re engaged! here’s where to begin

You’re engaged! And now the real adventure begins. Before diving into the planning whirlwind, take a breath and soak in this moment. Your engagement is worth celebrating all on its own. This short season deserves joy, reflection, and a few glasses of champagne.

Once you’ve had time to enjoy the glow, it’s time to start planning with intention, and we’re here to guide you through the first steps.

Step One: Dream together

Before you build a to-do list, get on the same page with your partner about your vision. Together answer some of these questions: What kind of memories do you want to create? What does the day feel like? Whose experience matters most to you? What is your vision for the day: what does it look like? Feel like? How do you want to remember it? Setting expectations early on will make every decision more focused and aligned.

Step two: Budget with purpose

Your budget isn’t just a number, use it as your planning framework. Start with a top-line amount, then prioritize your must-haves: a planner, venue, and a professional photography + videography team (hi, that’s us 👋). Need help building your budget? Last week’s blog post has a full guide to walk you through it.

Keep in mind: real numbers are more helpful than guesses. Reach out to vendors early so you can plan around actual quotes, not assumptions. You'll avoid disappointment when you have clarity from day one.

Step three: choose the right Season and date

Before falling in love with a date, think about the experience you want. Want golden hour portraits? Avoid winter if you're not planning a first look (because of the time of sunset). Hoping for outdoor vows or dancing under the stars? Skip the peak heat of July and aim for spring or fall. Let your dream visuals help shape your timeline!

Step four: Book the essentials

Once your date and venue are secured, it’s time to hire the vendors capturing the longterm memories: your photographer and videographer. (We’d love to be considered!) Booking early ensures you get the team you love, with time to create something truly personal. And when booking someone like us, we are here during the whole wedding planning process. Booking early allows for you to utilize our expertise when making decisions about your big day.

Next comes your planner (if you didn't book one first!), hair and makeup artists, rentals, transportation, and florals. Treat this like assembling your dream team. These professionals will shape the entire experience for you and your guests.

Step five: Say Yes to the Dress (and more)

Allow time for attire! Especially if you’re custom ordering or scheduling multiple alterations. Buying and altering a dress takes time. More time than you think! So make sure you start early. And don’t forget the groom’s look! The option of renting is great, but custom suits are a great treat for the groom day of. Plan early so that everyone feels confident and comfortable on the big day.

When it comes to choosing wedding party outfits, don’t underestimate the impact they have on your overall aesthetic. The colors, fabrics, and fit set the visual tone for your day. These are the people guests will see first and who will appear in photos. Coordinating styles between the bridesmaids and groomsmen (or across all parties, regardless of gender) helps create cohesion, while thoughtful details like matching accessories, shoes, or even hairstyles add depth and elegance. Keep in mind how these outfits will look against your venue backdrop and how they’ll photograph in different lighting situations. And don’t forget comfort: if your party feels great in what they’re wearing, it will show in every smile and candid moment! So get their input when making your decision.

Step six: don’t Skip the honeymoon

This is your first adventure as a married couple, a chance to unwind and reconnect after months of planning. Start by dreaming big: What kind of experience feels right for the two of you? Maybe it's a relaxing beachfront resort, a cozy cabin in the mountains, or a food-and-culture-filled city escape. Consider your personalities and what will help you truly decompress and celebrate this new chapter.

Once you’ve decided on a general vibe, research flights, accommodations, travel insurance, and local activities early. Booking well in advance helps with budgeting and availability, especially if you're traveling internationally or during a popular season. Don’t forget to check passport expiration dates or apply for any necessary visas.

It’s also a great idea to add honeymoon expenses to your wedding registry! Many modern platforms allow guests to contribute to excursions, meals, or even hotel stays.

If you're leaving right after the wedding, make sure your travel bags are packed and ready before the big day. But don’t be afraid to delay your trip a bit if you need time to rest or regroup. You don’t need to rush out the next morning! A “mini-moon” right after the wedding with a longer honeymoon later is a trend we fully support and see often.

The key is to choose what feels right for you and your partner, creating intentional space to breathe, explore, and just be together as newlyweds.

Step Seven: consult the experts

This is where your vendors shine. Your photographer, videographer, and planner will help shape your timeline, navigate lighting, and keep your day flowing smoothly. Don’t be afraid to lean on our experience! We’ve walked through hundreds of weddings and can help you avoid common pitfalls.

Step eight: Protect your relationship

Wedding planning is exciting, but also consuming. Build in time for the two of you to enjoy life outside of decisions and details. Plan weekly date nights with zero wedding talk. Let your relationship stay the center of the story!

Step nine: embrace the Journey

Things will evolve. Priorities will shift. That’s okay. You’ll learn, adjust, and grow together. Let your wedding day reflect your values, your joy, and your story! Not just what Pinterest or TikTok tells you is trending.

Planning a wedding doesn’t have to feel chaotic. With the right support and thoughtful planning, it can be joyful, intentional, and even fun.

💌 Need a trusted Photo+Video team to walk through this season with you? Reach out here and let’s start building your dream team together.