Just Engaged? Your First Wedding Planning To-Do’s

Congratulations! You’re Engaged—Now What?

You’re officially engaged! The love of your life popped the question, and you’re still floating on cloud nine. Now that you’ve said “yes,” you might be wondering: What are the first wedding planning steps I need to take?

Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—at Savvy Bridal, we believe every bride deserves a stress-free and luxurious planning experience. That’s why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the first things you need to do after getting engaged.

From setting a budget to finding the perfect wedding dress, we’re covering all the essentials so you can start your wedding journey with confidence!

1. Celebrate Your Engagement

Before diving into the details, take a moment to soak in the excitement! You just got engaged—this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and it deserves to be celebrated.

How to Celebrate:

• Plan an intimate engagement dinner with close family and friends.
• Announce your engagement on social media (or keep it private—your choice!).
• Get your engagement ring professionally sized and insured.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning an engagement party, consider a theme that reflects your wedding vision—it’s a fun way to set the tone for your big day!

2. Start Thinking About Your Wedding Vision

Before booking anything, take some time to dream about your perfect wedding day. Do you picture a romantic beach ceremony, a classic ballroom affair, or an intimate backyard celebration?

Questions to Ask Yourselves:

• What kind of vibe do we want? (Formal, casual, rustic, modern, etc.)
• What season do we love? (Spring blooms, summer sunshine, cozy fall colors, or a winter wonderland?)
• Do we want a local or destination wedding?

Pro Tip: Create a Pinterest board to organize your favorite wedding inspiration—this will help you when making design and dress decisions later on!

3. Set Your Wedding Budget 

Your budget will guide many of your decisions, so it’s essential to establish it early. Start by discussing finances with your fiancé and family to determine who is contributing and how much.

Key Budgeting Tips:

• List out all potential wedding expenses (venue, dress, catering, photography, florals, etc.).
• Decide on your top three priorities—what matters most? (e.g., an amazing photographer, a dream dress, or a gourmet menu).
• Set aside a contingency fund (unexpected costs always pop up!).

Pro Tip: Many couples underestimate the cost of alterations, taxes, and tips—factor those in from the start!

4. Create a Guest List (At Least a Rough One!) 

Before you book a venue, you’ll need to have a general idea of how many guests you’re inviting. Your guest count will impact your budget and venue options.

Guest List Tips:

• Start with immediate family and close friends.
• Consider whether you want a small, intimate wedding or a big celebration.
• Keep in mind: More guests = higher costs.

Pro Tip: Use a spreadsheet or wedding guest list app to track RSVPs and meal choices later on!

5. Choose a Wedding Date (Or a Few Options!)

Before you book vendors, pick a wedding date—or at least a few options. Some couples have a special date in mind, while others choose based on season, venue availability, or pricing.

Date Selection Tips:

• Popular wedding dates (spring & fall) book up fast—plan ahead!
• Off-season weddings (winter & summer) can save you money on venues and vendors.
• Consider your guest list—avoid holiday weekends if many guests will be traveling.

Pro Tip: If you’re flexible with your date, you’ll have more venue options and can potentially save on costs!

6. Book Your Dream Venue 

Once you’ve set a budget and guest count, it’s time to lock in your venue. Many venues book out 12-18 months in advance, so securing this early is key!

What to Consider When Choosing a Venue:

• Capacity – Can it comfortably fit your guest list?
• Style – Does it match your wedding vision?
• What’s Included? – Some venues offer catering, tables, and chairs; others require you to rent everything separately.

Pro Tip: Always visit venues in person before booking, and ask about hidden fees (like service charges or overtime costs).

7. Find Your Dream Wedding Dress 

Now comes the best part—wedding dress shopping! Many brides don’t realize that it takes 6-9 months for a custom gown to arrive, plus time for alterations.

How to Start Your Dress Shopping Journey:

• Book an appointment with a bridal boutique – At Savvy Bridal, we offer a luxury, one-on-one shopping experience tailored to your style and vision.
• Try on different silhouettes – Even if you have a style in mind, be open to trying something new!
• Bring a small entourage – Too many opinions can be overwhelming, so bring only your closest family or friends.

Pro Tip: Start shopping at least 9-12 months before your wedding to allow for ordering and alterations. If you’re on a tight timeline, ask about off-the-rack options!

8. Hire Your Key Wedding Vendors 

Once your date and venue are locked in, start booking your must-have vendors:

• Wedding planner (optional but helpful!)
• Photographer & videographer
• Band/DJ
• Caterer & bar service
• Florist

Pro Tip: Great vendors book far in advance, so secure your favorites early!

Enjoy the Process! 

Planning a wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—don’t let stress overshadow the joy of this special time!

Final Recap of Your First Wedding Planning Steps:

 ✔ ️Celebrate & enjoy the engagement bliss!
✔ Dream up your wedding vision.
✔ Set a realistic budget.
✔ Draft a guest list.
✔ Pick a wedding date.
✔ Book your venue.
✔ Start shopping for your wedding dress at Savvy Bridal!
✔ Secure key vendors.

Find Your Dream Dress at Savvy Bridal!

Your wedding dress is one of the most important (and exciting!) decisions you’ll make. At Savvy Bridal, we offer a personalized, luxury bridal shopping experience to help you find the gown that makes you feel like the bride you’ve always dreamed of being.

Ready to find your dream dress? Schedule Your Bridal Appointment Now!