Congratulations! You just said “yes” to the love of your life— and now it’s time to plan your dream wedding. To help you have a stress-free wedding planning experience, we’ve created an engagement checklist for everything you need to know before saying “I do.”

Celebrate & Share The Joy

The first thing you should do after getting engaged is celebrate and share the amazing news with your loved ones! Whether it’s a phone call, personalized message, or beautifully-designed social media post, let the world know about your engagement. It’s easy to start stressing about wedding planning immediately, but it’s important to savor the special moment with your partner, friends, and family first.

Set a Date

Following the joy of your engagement, setting a tentative wedding date early on is crucial. This will give you a timeline to work with and help you secure your dream venue, which are often booked a year or even more in advance. Consider factors like the season and time of year, availability of key guests, and any personal milestones that you want to align your wedding with like an anniversary or special number.

Create a Budget

One of the most important aspects of wedding planning is establishing a realistic budget. Determine how much you are willing to spend on your special day and allocate funds to different elements such as venue, catering, attire, and photography. This will guide your decisions and keep you on track throughout the planning process.

Create a Guest List

Start compiling a list of guests you want to invite to your wedding. This will help you estimate the size of the venue you’ll need and assist in budgeting for catering and other expenses. Remember to be mindful of your budget and venue capacity as you finalize your guest list. Read our blog post for tips on creating a guest list.

Choose a Venue

Selecting the right venue is a pivotal step in the wedding planning process. Whether you dream of a rustic barn, a beachfront ceremony, or an elegant chapel, book your venue well in advance to secure your preferred date. Make sure the venue aligns with your theme and accommodates your guest list comfortably, too! And if you have a dream venue in mind that you consider non-negotiable, you’ll want to check their availability well before setting a date as it may dictate when you say “I do.”

Hire a Wedding Planner

Consider enlisting the help of a professional wedding planner to alleviate stress and streamline the planning process. They can provide valuable insights, connect you with trusted vendors, and ensure that every detail is taken care of. If a full-service planner isn’t in your budget, a day-of coordinator can still be a game-changer. Here at Dream, we can do it all and take over as much or as little as you need— from day-of coordination to month-of planning, or planning everything from the beginning. Learn more about our planning services.

Find the Perfect Attire

Shopping for your wedding attire is a significant occasion. Begin your search early to allow time for fittings and alterations. Consider bringing trusted friends or family members along to share in the excitement and help you find the outfit that makes you feel absolutely radiant—and if you don’t want any other opinions while picking out your dream wedding day ensemble, that’s fine, too!

Book Vendors

Secure your photographer, videographer, florist, and other vendors well in advance. These professionals often have busy schedules, especially during peak wedding seasons. Booking early ensures that you get the best in the business and that they have your date reserved. Learn more about when to book your wedding vendors here.

Select Your Menu

Good food is a crucial element of any celebration, and choosing the right catering service can make a significant impact. Research catering companies, attend tastings, and finalize your menu early on. Consider your guest’s dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And most importantly, consider your own personal tastes or if there is anything meaningful for you as a couple. Do you have a favorite comfort food you can’t imagine your day without, or a memorable first date meal you want to elevate for your reception?

At Dream, we offer a diverse menu with everything from Southern classics to international dishes—and it’s all customizable to suit your wants and needs. Contact us to start planning your dream menu.

Plan the Honeymoon

While you’re busy planning the wedding, don’t forget about the honeymoon. Research destinations, book flights and accommodations, and plan activities to make your post-wedding getaway as memorable as the ceremony itself.

Final Thoughts

Wedding planning can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. By following this engagement checklist, you’ll be prepared to tackle each task with confidence, ensuring that your wedding day goes smoothly. Remember, this is a time to celebrate, so savor every moment of the planning process as you create the foundation for a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers to the beginning of your happily ever after!

Photos by Heck Designs & Photography and Danielle Christine Photography.