Getting engaged is one of the most exciting milestones in our lives, something many people dream of for years! Once you’ve got that ring it can be overwhelming and you may be unsure where to start your wedding planning process. We’ve written this handy guide and provided a downloadable checklist to help you get the ball rolling.
Let everyone know!
The first step is to scream it from the rooftops. Call family and friends and let them know about your happy news. If it’s your kind of thing, post on your social media to get the word out.
If you’re planning an engagement party, make all your guests aware of the provisional dates so they can get it into their diaries as quick as possible. If you’re opting for a party, the next steps are to find a venue and organise catering, entertainment and outfits for you and your new fiancé.
The Boring Bit
Now it’s time to choose a date for your actual wedding day. Think about the time of year you’d like to get married, there are pros and cons to all seasons so do you research. Once you’ve decided on a time of year, nail down a date and let those closest to you know with a save the date card.
Sit down with your fiancé and discuss the finances. Decide on the budget for your big day, consider any savings you have, or any generous contributions family members may give. Once you’ve established the overall amount, divide it up according to your priorities. A more informal BBQ meal might appeal if you can afford to hire your local favourite live band for the evening party, it’s all about compromise. Remember to include a small amount as a contingency, there’s bound to be something you’ll miss out.
If you’re struggling to make a small budget stretch read 6 Ways to Keep Your Wedding Plans on Budget.
Make a Pinterest Board
Now it’s time to decide on the theme you’re going for. This could majorly affect your venue choice so it’s important to nail down the vibe at this point. Share your Pinterest board with your partner and add ideas to it. Sit down and review what you’ve come up with, create a final board with the style you’ve chosen and start shopping around for decorations to purchase or hire.
Establish a Guest List
Write a guest list and remember to be realistic. If you need to limit numbers due to a tighter budget think carefully about who to prioritise. Some couples opt for a child-free day and others invite lots, weigh up the pros and cons with your other half.
Research and Visit Venues
Once you have a date in mind, it’s time to start the exciting venue search. Start by searching online in the area you want to get married in and keep your budget in mind. Read reviews, talk to the venue manager over email or on the phone, and choose where you’d like to look around. When viewing venues, consider how they will fit with your intended styling, any extra costs like corkage fees, if they can accommodate your guest numbers, and whether they provide catering. Other considerations will be based on the specifics of your day, so write a list before you start your search.
It might be useful to attend some wedding fairs and open days. Not only will you and your fiancé get the chance to talk to local venues, you’ll get an idea of what local suppliers have to offer. It’s a lovely day out and you might even get some freebies.
Don’t forget we have an Over Barn Wedding Open Day on 8th January 2022, drop sam@overfarm.co.uk an email to secure your spot.
Catering
If your venue doesn’t provide catering, do some research and shop around. Check the reviews and ask for a sample menu.
For catering inspiration for all budgets read Choosing Your Wedding Menu.
Ask the Wedding Party
Choose your bridesmaids and groomsmen. There are so many fab ways to ask them, we love incorporating the question into gifts or having a get together to ask them in person.
Think carefully about your wedding party and don’t go overboard. If you’re providing their outfits, think carefully about whether it fits into your budget.
Book a Photographer
Choosing a photographer really is a big deal, you don’t want to be left disappointed. We’ve had some fabulous photographers here at Over Barn, take a look at our Instagram and Facebook for some examples of their work.
Organise a consultation with those on your shortlist, talk through the logistics. How long do you want them to stay? Are there any specific shots you would like? How much do they charge? Once you’ve established this you can determine the photographer most suited to you, get them booked in as soon as possible.
Say Yes to the Dress
Dress shopping is one of the most exciting wedding planning steps. Start the process early, some brides fall in love with the first dress they try, others take a little longer to decide. Take your bridesmaids and close family members to give a second opinion.
Organise the Honeymoon
Whether you’re opting for a minimoon at the British seaside or a big honeymoon in the Maldives, get some dates nailed down. Ensure you and your fiancé both have the time booked off work and start looking online for deals.
Hen and Stag Dos
Being one of most fun parts of the run up for the wedding it’s essential you prioritise spending time with your closest family and friends. Whether it’s a chilled-out spa day or a party holiday abroad, you should start thinking about the kind of thing you want in advance and who you are going to invite.
Our Checklist
We’ve created this handy checklist to help you keep track of the first steps of planning following your engagement, download here: Post-Engagement Checklist
If you’ve planned the basics, you might be wondering what to do in the weeks leading up to your big day. Have a read of our Last Minute Wedding To-Do List.
We hope this article has helped you get started at planning your dream day and made it all seem a little less daunting. Remember, come along to our Wedding Open Day on 8th January to get a feel for Over Barn, just register your interest here!
