Getting engaged is a thrilling time in your life. With a sparkling ring on your finger and the promise of forever ahead, you’re stepping into an exciting new chapter. While this period is filled with joy, it can also be overwhelming. Wedding planning involves countless decisions and plenty of logistics.
To ease the journey, here are essential tips for newly engaged couples to help you plan your dream day smoothly.
Let’s Get Straight To The Point
Getting engaged is exciting but can feel overwhelming due to wedding planning. Celebrate your engagement first, then start planning by discussing your budget, guest list, and location.
Dream about your ideal wedding style and book key vendors (venue, photographer, planner) early. Create a timeline, stay organised with tools, and communicate openly with family and friends. Consider engagement photos, a wedding website, and hiring a day-of coordinator.
Focus on little details and practice self-care throughout the process. Remember, it’s about celebrating your love—prioritize what makes you and your partner happy for a meaningful and memorable day.
Celebrate Your Engagement
Before diving into planning, take some time to enjoy the moment. You’ve just agreed to spend your lives together—this is worth celebrating! Share the news with your closest friends and family first. Here are a few ways to mark this special occasion:
- Host a small engagement party.
- Share your news in person or via video call with those who matter most.
- Post a thoughtful announcement on social media.
Tip: If you’re announcing online, ensure you’ve informed close family and friends beforehand to avoid any hurt feelings.
Start with Key Conversations
The foundation of wedding planning lies in discussing the essentials early. Three crucial topics to address include:
Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Here’s how to approach it:
- Discuss financial contributions from both families (if applicable).
- Use a wedding budget calculator to estimate costs.
- Prioritise where to allocate your budget—venue, photography, attire, etc.
Guest List
Knowing your approximate guest count is vital for choosing a venue. Begin with:
- Immediate family and close friends.
- Extended family and colleagues.
- Friends from other circles.
Tip: Use a spreadsheet to organise your guest list for easy updates.
Location
Decide whether you want a local wedding or a destination celebration. Consider factors like travel logistics for guests, sentimental locations, and availability of venues.
Dream Big, Then Narrow It Down
Before you delve into the finer details, take time to envision your perfect day. Think about:
- Wedding style: rustic, boho, modern, or classic?
- Venue setting: garden, beach, or ballroom?
- Colour palette and decor themes.
Once you’ve brainstormed, make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will guide your decisions as you move forward.
Hire Key Vendors Early
Booking your primary vendors early is essential to securing your preferred date. Focus on:
- Venue: Visit multiple options and consider availability, guest capacity, and overall vibe.
- Photographer and Videographer: Choose professionals whose style aligns with your vision.
- Wedding Planner: If you’re hiring one, do this early so they can assist with logistics and vendor recommendations.
Tip: Many top vendors are booked a year or more in advance, so act quickly once you’ve settled on your date.
Plan Your Wedding Day Timeline
A well-structured timeline ensures a smooth wedding day. Start by mapping out:
- Preparation time: hair, makeup, and getting dressed.
- Ceremony: duration and setup time.
- Reception: speeches, meals, and entertainment.
Include buffer times to account for unexpected delays. Collaborate with your planner or photographer to ensure everything flows seamlessly.
Keep Communication Open
Planning a wedding involves many opinions, but your preferences should take precedence. When discussing plans with family or friends:
- Listen respectfully, but don’t feel obligated to implement every suggestion.
- Communicate decisions clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
- Remember, this is your day. Focus on what makes you and your partner happy.
Take Engagement Photos
An engagement session is a wonderful way to celebrate this special phase. It also helps you:
- Build rapport with your photographer.
- Get comfortable in front of the camera.
- Capture memories of this joyful time.
Choose a location that holds sentimental value or aligns with your wedding theme for a cohesive look.
Consider Hiring a Day-Of Coordinator
Even if you’re handling most of the planning yourself, a day-of coordinator can be invaluable. Their role includes:
- Managing vendors on the wedding day.
- Troubleshooting any issues that arise.
- Keeping the timeline on track.
This allows you to relax and fully enjoy your big day.
Create a Wedding Website
A wedding website is an excellent tool for keeping guests informed. Include:
- Venue details and directions.
- Accommodation recommendations.
- Your registry information.
This ensures everyone has access to key details, saving you from repetitive questions.
Stay Organised
Wedding planning can be chaotic without the right tools. Use:
- A dedicated wedding planner or binder.
- Digital tools like Google Sheets or wedding planning apps.
- Checklists to track tasks and deadlines.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
While big-ticket items often take centre stage, smaller details also make a difference. Consider:
- A thoughtful seating arrangement to enhance guest interaction.
- Emergency kits with essentials like safety pins and mints.
- Personalised touches, such as custom signage or favours.
Practice Self-Care
Wedding planning can be stressful, so prioritise self-care. Tips include:
- Scheduling regular date nights with your partner.
- Taking breaks from planning to recharge.
- Staying active and eating well to maintain energy levels.
Prepare for Post-Wedding Plans
Once the big day is over, you’ll need to focus on:
- Changing your name (if applicable).
- Writing thank-you notes for gifts and support.
- Organising your wedding photos and videos.
Remember What Matters Most
Amidst the planning frenzy, don’t lose sight of the bigger picture. Your wedding is about celebrating your love and commitment. Keep this perspective at the forefront, and the process will feel more meaningful.
Conclusion
Your engagement marks the beginning of a beautiful journey together. While wedding planning can feel overwhelming, breaking it down into manageable steps will keep you on track. Celebrate your love, communicate openly, and prioritise what’s most important to you as a couple. With thoughtful planning and a focus on your happiness, your wedding day will be everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
FAQs About Engaged Couples
How Quickly Can You Get Married In Melbourne?
In Australia, the quickest way for you to get married through the standard process is one month from the moment you decide you want to wear the eternal shackles of undying love to your future husband.
How Many Times Can You Get Married In Australia?
Australian law recognises only monogamous marriages, being marriages of two people, including same-sex marriages, and does not recognise any other forms of union, including traditional Aboriginal marriages, polygamous marriages, or concubinage.
What Is The Best Month To Get Married In Melbourne?
Spring is traditionally the start of the wedding season. According to recent statistics, spring weddings are the most popular choice for brides and grooms in Melbourne with as many as 37% of couples choosing to get married during September to November.
Can You Marry Your Step Sister In Australia?
Either person is under the age of 18, and the Court did not give permission for the marriage to occur. The people getting married are related (including step-siblings, step-parents, half-siblings, adopted siblings, adoptive parents, or any blood relatives).
What Is A Commitment Ceremony in Australia?
A commitment ceremony stands as a public affirmation of a couple’s commitment to one another, without it being recognised by the law. There are also other reasons why couples may choose a commitment ceremony over a legally-binding marriage ceremony.