Getting Engaged: 5 Things to Do First

Congratulations on getting engaged! There are tons of wedding essentials you’ll need to complete between now and “I Do.” To get you ready for the big day, we've compiled a list of five important wedding planning things you should tackle first.

1. Select a Date:

Setting a date is the most important step you can take in wedding planning. The availability of vendors and venues will of course hinge on the date you select. So get out your calendar and find a day that works for you.

2. Announce your Engagement:

Sharing the good news with friends and family is the next step to take. Make it a festive occasion by planning an engagement party or keep it simple by sending an email or calling friends directly.

3. Take Engagement Photos:

Engagement photos are a really big wedding essentials trend with brides and grooms today. You’ll find tons of ways to use these photos throughout your engagement. They’re great to use with save-the-dates, on your wedding Website and even on display at your wedding reception.

4. Design a Wedding Website:

Your wedding Website can serve as “wedding central” a place where you can list updates, photos and and everything else friends and family should know about your upcoming nuptials.

5. Set the Wedding Budget:

This step is a crucial one. Setting your wedding budget early will save you lots of time, sweat and tears down the road — trust us. Even if you have to make minor adjustments with your wedding planning here and there, knowing where you want to spend and how much you have to spend will keep you financially focused when meeting with vendors.