Just Engaged? Let's Get Started!

So, your dream has finally come true!! Your very own Prince Charming has gotten down on bended knee, told you how much he loves you, and asked if you would spend the rest of your life with him! You are positively elated and somehow can't seem to come down off of Cloud 9... everything in life is nothing less than blissful and you just can't help but sneak about 5 million peaks at your now occupied left ring finger! Can life get anymore perfect??? **Sigh**

Sound familiar ladies??

Well, I have to say that I am absolutely thrilled for you! Now, let's jump from Cloud 9 back to Planet Earth and let's get started planning your BIG DAY!!! Here are just a few things to get you started on right after the engagement!  And don't worry, you can hop back on that cloud shortly!!

                 

Chat with your Groom!

I know your mind is racing with the thought of wedding bells, but take some time to talk with your hubby-to-be and find out what kind of wedding you both want to have.  Of course the wedding day is supposed to be all about the bride, but make sure that it incorporates elements that make the wedding show off your "couple style."  This will be the first day you and he will be Mr. & Mrs. so make sure that it is just as memorable for you as it is for him! Everything is so much easier with a happy groomy! And hey, you might be sweetly surprised by the imput he gives you back! Maybe he has some neat wedding ideas too!!

Budget, Budget, Budget! 

I know, I know...But it has to be done! It doesn't have to be as painful as it sounds though! Make sure that you sit down with whomever will be helping you with your funds and let them know what is most important for you.  Where do you want to splurge, and just as important...where you can cut corners?  Just off the top of my head, think about what can be budgeted for your ceremony, reception, wedding gown & tux, flowers & decor, photography, music, invitations, transportation, lodging, and of course don't forget about the rings!  You should also factor in the miscellaneous costs involved...accessories, gifts, and favors.  Keep tabs on your spending by going to http://planning.theknot.com/wedding-budget!!

Pick Your Date!

Don't wait around to pick your date! Wedding venues book up FAST...sometimes years in advance!! So sit down with your calendar and start circling! Do you want a spring wedding our fall? Start looking at your options, but be aware of a few things.  Keep in mind the weather!! (i.e if you have your wedding during hurricane season, a indoor event may be the way you want to go, or at the very least have an indoor alternative.)  Also, be aware of special days and holidays.  Having your wedding around a holiday has it's pro's and con's. Keep in mind that your guests may have standing family plans that they may not want to disrupt and be alert to price differences as seen in flowers and  lodging based on certain times of the year!  Or if your significant other and ALL of his closest buddies are sports fans...don't be surprised if he asks to have the wedding the weekend that the University of Whereever has a "by week!"

Start Your Guestlist!

It is NEVER too early to start on your guestlist!!! I can not stress this enough! The guestlist goes hand-in-hand with the budget, so the sooner you know your budget, the sooner you know how many people you can invite and vice versa.  You can always tweak your list down the road, but go ahead and get started on your A-Listers. Knowing how many guests you will have will make the planning process so much easier.  Plus, you will already have a good idea of who will need to be invited to showers and such!

Consider a Consultant!

Even if you know exactly how you will pull your wedding together, planning is not an easy task! There are aspects of your wedding that I promise you have never even thought about.  Consider bringing in a pro, even if it is only for day-of coordinating.  Remember, your big day is supposed to be one that you will remember as magical, unforgettable, so much fun and the best day of your life! Don't let it turn into a stressful, crazy, I can't find my vail kind of a day.  Relax, take it all in, because it will be over before you know it.  Let a consultant do your heavy lifting and let them make your day exactly what it's supposed to be...ALL ABOUT YOU!

~xoxoxo~
Shannon