It’s that time of year – so many engagements happen during the holiday season, and we love it! So you’re engaged, now what?
Well first of all, congratulations! Being engaged is an incredibly exciting time, and we want you and your partner to soak it up! You may be eager to jump into planning your big day and but have found it to be an overwhelming process, especially amidst COVID-19. Not to worry! We have compiled our top things to do after you get engaged to keep you stress-free and on track as you kick off your planning.
xo, Calluna
Our Top Tips for Immediate Post-Proposal
-1- Enjoy it! Life is short, and this can be overlooked! You just got engaged – this is a big deal!! Take some time to celebrate alone together before your family and friends are in on the celebration. Good news is needed now more than ever, share the joy with your loved ones. This is about the lifetime commitment you made to each other. We’re cheers-ing to you and all of the celebrations to come!
-2- Insure your bling. Chances are, your ring was a big investment. It will give you both some peace of mind knowing that your ring is insured. This is also a good opportunity to resize your band if needed so it has the perfect fit!
-3-Celebrate with friends and family (from a safe distance!) Now that you’re engaged, your friends and family are going to want to celebrate you both! Engagement parties and bridal showers with your loved ones may look a little different than what you originally anticipated. Schedule your celebration for a later date and instead, and take the virtual route. Celebrate with family and friends from a safe distance via Zoom call or even driving by the houses of your family and friends! Enjoy the moment, it’s worth celebrating!!
-4- Craft your vision- Due to COVID-19 and restrictions in place, it may be hard to lock in vendors or a location. So, instead, start with crafting your vision! Scroll through Pinterest or Instagram, make your own Pinterest board, and explore the endless possibilities of what your day will look like! Start brainstorming on color palette, wedding location and venues, flowers, design elements, food and drink options… the world is your oyster! With everything going on right now, this is a perfect (and safe!) way to start planning your big day.
-5- Set your budget. An open and honest discussion about your wedding budget and priorities is important early on in the planning process. Where do you want to focus your investment? What are your non-negotiables – music, venue, florals? Whatever it may be, set realistic expectations together about what you’re comfortable spending on your big day. Regardless of the type of vendor, the more concrete you can be about your budget the more productive the conversation!
-6- Set up a gift registry (or two). Time to “shop” – this part is so fun! Now that you’re engaged, your friends and family are going to want to celebrate you both! It’s a long process, so don’t feel overwhelmed to do everything at once. Add a few things here and there as you find what you love and it’ll be full in no time! You can register with specific retailers but we love Zola as it acts as hub for all wishlist items in one place. Kitchenware, not your thing? Aside from classic items, you can get outside the box with your registry. Think anywhere from honeymoon fund (when its safe to travel!), a donation to a cause close to your hearts, “group gifting” of a larger investment and so much more!
-7- Consider hiring a wedding planner. Well, hey – we may be biased but this is important! A wedding planner can be your greatest asset as your advocate, advisor, negotiator, coordinator, manager of your vision, and more! We can think of a thousand reasons to hire a planner, but here are just a few.
Even though times may seem uncertain right now, you will get the wedding you imagined, it just may be later than you anticipated. Even amidst a global pandemic- Love is not canceled!
Feature Photo:
Wedding Planning & Design | Calluna Events
Venue & Catering | The Broadmoor
Photography | Jody Zorn Photography
Floral Design | Erin Ashley Designs
Hair & Make-Up | Divine Beauty Artists