Here’s What a Day in the Life of a Celebrity Wedding Planner Is *Really* Like

There is no such thing as a typical day for Andrea Freeman, a successful celebrity wedding and party planner in New York. Luckily for her, she wouldn’t have it any other way! So just what are the responsibilities of a VIP wedding planner? Apart from the lunch and drink meetings with vendors and clients discussing themes, budgets and couples’ wishes, there are tours through new venues, floral arrangements and seating chart shenanigans, just to name a *few.* While it’s enough to make anyone’s head spin, for Andrea, it’s just another day in the life. In fact, she revels in it. For her, the task of creatively piecing together different elements to create a successful event and ultimately seeing her clients happy are what fuels her passion. To find out more about what drives Andrea every day, keep reading!

1. What is your morning routine?

I wake up at 6:30am, and after an early morning shower for myself and a bath for Izzy, it’s time to find the perfect work wear that inspires confidence but is still comfortable enough to run around in all day. I’m all about the gorgeous but comfortable shoe — and don’t get me started on wedges! A good breakfast is a must for energy, so I make a tray of baked oatmeal on Sunday which lasts all week. To keep it interesting, I change the toppings daily — switching between blueberries, bananas and almonds. Oatmeal is so healthy and filling — I’m addicted! By 9am, I’m ready and usually at a venue or a meeting with new clients.

2. How do you stay organized and motivated with your busy schedule?

Timelines are key. Little details can make or break the flowers, the food and the seating. Everything has to work together harmoniously and look as if it were easy, providing the right backdrop for a lifetime of perfect memories. Deliveries are timed to the quarter hour, and each vendor must arrive on time and in the correct location or it all goes off the rails — clear communication and timing are everything! In between all this, I’m usually on conference calls with clients, and making appointments to visit other venues, caterers and florists. On the day of an event, I always keep with me a client folder with copies of contracts, lighters for candles, office supplies (scissors, markets highlighters, tape, etc.), the all-important emergency kit for the bridal suite, my outfit, two pairs of extra shoes, phone charger, steamer for linens, table numbers, escort cards and ceremony programs. Of course, I do have an assistant who helps keep everything organized. It’s a little bit hectic, but worth every bit of effort when I see the looks on my clients’ faces, assuring me that I have given them exactly what they were hoping for and a little bit more!

3. I understand you have a baby girl, Izzy. How has becoming a mother affected your daily routine?

It has taught me how to become an expert multi-tasker!

4. What are your favorite ways to unwind after a long and busy day?

I love to spend some quality time with Izzy before feeding her and getting her ready for bed. Then it’s time for an at-home sushi date night and a nice glass of wine with my hubby, and maybe a movie.

5. What is the one thing you cannot function without?

My iPhone is the most important weapon to organize everything and everybody. I use it to approve floor plans, finalize production schedules and respond to messages from clients even when on-site for an installation or the party itself. Not to mention, I need to be there quickly if and when my daughter Izzy needs attention.

6. What are your favorite wedding trends this year?

In regards to style, high fashion is making its presence known as couples walk down the aisle. Gowns with thigh-high slits on loose skirts paired with crop tops are big, as are illusion and 3D lace. As for suits, velvet lapels and structured suits are in.

From the most elegant urban spaces to country tent weddings, the free-form, lush organic floral decor is very big. I’m seeing a lot of this in a very classy way — not like the DIY arrangements from a few years ago, but instead, expertly created arrangements that show off the beauty of nature.

For couples who believe more is more, enter mixed metallic decor. Gone are the days where you have to choose between gold, silver, rose gold or brass. This look goes with a variety of styles, and a single accent color creates a brand new look. I’m loving this!

Donut walls and dessert buffets are excellent ways to offer a variety of sweets, but wedding cakes won’t ever go out of style. Last year, marbled cakes were hot. Next year, it looks like the geode cake will take center stage. And cake with crystallized sugar… what’s not to love?!

A lot of couples keep it simple with table decor and opt for a big “wow factor” area. A floral installation over the dance floor is popular since a great deal of the night is spent there. There are also over-the-top escort card displays.

Food stations made the boring buffet interesting, and now that’s getting kicked up a notch. I’m working on an event right now with a festival feel. We’re featuring a roaming oyster shucker and also a buffalo mozzarella cart. Think build your own sundaes, but with cheese. Amazing!

7. Do you ever get nervous when working with well-known celebrities like Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder? If so, what are some ways you keep your cool?

No!

Would you like to walk a day in Andrea’s shoes? Follow us on Pinterest for all things wedding!

Did Tom Holland and Zendaya spike the air with love following their engagement news? I mean, it seems like everyone's popping the question these days! If you've recently said "yes" to the love of your life's big question, all that's left to do now is start planning so you can walk down the aisle into the next chapter of your relationship's story.

Before you start randomly choosing wedding dates, you may want to take advice from Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events, Tara Fay of Tara Fay Events, and Wendee Vezzetti of Custom Weddings of Colorado because they have keen tips to help you avoid a few faux pas. Think of it as their way of helping you avoid further stress.

"While every couple's wedding day is special, there are a few dates that might cause more stress than celebration — both on the day and in the years to come," says Vezzetti.

Scroll to see the worst days to have your wedding!

Khaki Bedford

1. New Years Eve

December 31 may have come and gone, but there's always more NYE events to come. It's just one of the worst days to have your wedding. No, I mean it. Abbott suggests this isn't the time to pack two celebratory events into one. As the owner and creative director of Amy Abbott Events, she's helped plan luxurious weddings for some of Hollywood's top celebrities and athletes — including Simone Biles!

So, why no fabulous wedding on NYE? She says, "You’ll end up paying almost 50 percent more as vendors typically charge much higher rates." But, that's just the tip of the iceberg. She also adds, "For destination weddings during this time of year, hotels often enforce 5- to 7-night minimum stays, with hotel rates being nearly double. This can make it almost impossible for your guests to commit to attending your wedding." Even if you think money isn't an issue, she advises "it's just a very costly option."

That's not the only issue you could face. "To add to the challenge, some of the best vendors often take the entire holiday season off, making availability a significant issue." This just made our jaws drop because we didn't know this! But we can imagine this feels like one of the times they get to catch their breath before prepping for such a huge moment in people's lives so it's not unbelievable!

Jim Trice

2. Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is such a romantic day that deserves to be reserved for celebrating how much you're in love. But, please don't think your wedding has to be on February 14. Vezzetti says this day along with NYE "may sound romantic," but they're not in "reality."

She says, "These dates are super popular for weddings and other celebrations, which means venues and vendors charge a premium." And guess what? She says you're not even considering "future anniversaries."

Her advice if you decide to forge ahead is: "Good luck booking a cozy dinner reservation when everyone else is celebrating too."

Khaki Bedford for Amy Abbott Events

3. Super Bowl Sunday

Another thing Fay says couples "often forget about" are "major sporting events." Her rule of thumb is to "try to understand the guest list and audience" so her team can be "conscious of their experiences."

It's the reason she's against have a wedding on Super Bowl Sunday. She says, "It may leave guests less present at your event, even if you're not a football fan. So we [the Tara Fay Events team] try to be conscious of big cultural and sporting events like this."

Always be aware of times close to major holidays. If guests have to travel distances and be away from their families, that may impact your rsvp’s. Plus, it’s typically more expensive to travel those times of year. Don’t forget about international holidays as well, Diwali for example.

Amy Abbott Events

4. Labor Day

Vezzetti also discourages scheduling a wedding on Labor Day. The rule used to be that you couldn't wear white after this holiday passed, but now you need to rethink your plans if you plan to trade 'I Do's" on this date.

"Long holiday weekends may seem ideal for travel, but they also come with headaches. First, heavy traffic," says Vezzetti. She and her team "have seen travel times TRIPLE on Colorado roadways during these holidays." This fact alone made our hearts skip a beat because we caught of a flash of you potentially being late your own wedding!

Also, Vezzetti says you won't be the only person in town for a holiday like this. "Because everyone else is traveling, lodging and restaurants are hard to come by, especially popular mountain retreats in places like Colorado."

Amy Abbott Events

5. Memorial Day

Sigh... We don't know why anyone would want to have a wedding on Memorial Day, but personal preference always plays a factor in decisions like this. The issue, Vezzetti warns, is that you're risking a lot by doing so. "Before you set the date, do a little research as to local annual events," she advises.

For example, Boulder, Colorado is a "great destination with amazing scenery, warm weather, and world-class dining" according to her. "But Memorial Day in Boulder, Colorado brings more than 50,000 runners into town. So definitely check the local calendar for your wedding destination and make sure you aren't going to share your special day with thousands of others."

Can you imagine having an outdoor wedding where your guests are torn between watching you emotionally exchange vows as marathon runners sprint nearby?

Taryn Baxter for Amy Abbott Events

I'm kind of scared I'll choose the wrong date. What are good days or months to have my wedding?

This sounds like a "how-to" guide of everything you shouldn't do when choosing your wedding date, but there's still a large window of opportunity! "The best months to get married for tropical destination weddings are October 15th through July 15th," Abbott says.

But, there's a catch. "Once you go beyond that, you risk running into hurricane season. Even if you're fortunate enough to avoid a storm, the intense heat and relentless bugs can take away from the enjoyment of your day," she adds. All in all, "it's simply not an ideal time of year" because "the weather can significantly impact your overall experience," according to her.

Amy Abbott Events

Fay agrees with this by adding "major weather events are important to consider" at all times. She also added you should "take note of monsoon months" along with "hurricane season." She knows no one can really "predict bad weather," but she wants you to "aim for months that more often provide the experience you're looking to have."

Vezzetti says "popular dates in Colorado are the summer months (June-September) because of the scenic outdoor backdrops and warm weather." But she knows there are "trade-offs" like "venues and vendors" booking early, plus the chance "you might pay higher prices" even though the "gorgeous sand makes it worth it!"

The truth is that your special day should feel as seamless as possible. Something is sure not to go according to plan, but it shouldn't involve something interrupting the entire date you've chosen to have your weeding. Fay's final piece of advice, "If you want to get married in Europe, be aware of when Europeans go on holiday and try to avoid August which is the busiest time for major European countries.

But, the trade-offs are that venues and vendors book early and you might pay higher prices (but it's gorgeous sand worth it!). But, if you want to save, In Colorado late spring (April–May) and late fall (November) are excellent for the value. Plus, venues and vendors often have more availability. This concept can be applied to other destinations, but they may have seasonal variations. So, be sure to check the seasonal highs and lows in whatever area you are planning to tie the knot.

Amy Abbott Events

A tip you may not have considered is doing "a little research on when courthouses in the destination issue marriage licenses." Vezzetti suggests doing this so you're well-prepared and can "plan with enough travel time so you are not scrambling to get your legal documents."

Not sure when to go? Vezzetti says, "In most States, courthouses are only open during banking hours (Mon-Fri, generally), and while the process may quick (in Colorado, expect 15 minutes, tops), couples without a plan might find themselves in panic mode." Didn't we say we don't want you passing out before your big day even arrives? Take Vezzetti's advice and "do a little research" so you can "plan to arrive a day early!"

Before you panic, Abbott has one last thing to share. "The good news? There are nearly nine and a half months of perfect timing for wedding planning, giving couples plenty of options to make their big day truly unforgettable!"

Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding inspo!

Just like the perfect batch of cookies, the perfect TV show boils down to a fine-tuned recipe: a witty script, amazing producers, and a cast that might as well have been written in the stars. Well, even though we don't have much information about Apple TV's new limited series Lucky, we do know Anya Taylor-Joy and Drew Starkey will star in the project, with Reese Witherspoon at the helm. And TBH...that's all I need to know.

Here's everything we know about Reese Witherspoon's Lucky, starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Drew Starkey.

See the first look at Drew Starkey and Anya Taylor-Joy in 'Lucky.'

Apple Studios

Drew Starkey and Anya Taylor-Joy are up close and personal in the first look at Lucky, and it looks like this show will be getting HOT.

Apple Studios

I can't get over how amazing Anya Taylor-Joy looks with red hair, especially with a sequin, sparkly dress. It definitely reminds me of The Queen's Gambit's Beth in a different font.

What is Lucky about?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Lucky, based on Marissa Stapley's book of the same name, is a Reese's Book Club pick that follows a young woman named Lucky (Anya Taylor-Joy) who said goodbye to the life of crime she'd always known. But when she's faced with her past, she has to turn back to her training one last time.

In addition to Anya (who's also executive producing), we'll see Drew Starkey as her onscreen husband Cary, as well as Annette Bening, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Timothy Olyphant. And the series will be brought to life by Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine (which is behind The Morning Showand The Last Thing He Told Me).

What has the cast and crew said about the TV show?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

“Hello Sunshine continues to do a fantastic job of championing women’s voices and I’m thrilled to be joining the team alongside Jonathan, Cassie and Apple TV+ to bring Lucky to life,” Anya Taylor-Joy told Apple TV.

“Reese’s Book Club began with the goal of deepening connections — to the stories, to the storytellers and to the community we are building,” Reese Witherspoon added. “It is incredibly rewarding to be able to amplify these female-centric stories and their authors, see our community connect with them, then see them take on a whole new life on screen. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Apple TV+ and the incomparable Anya Taylor-Joy, plus our brilliant creator Jonathan Tropper and his wonderful co-showrunner Cassie Pappas, to bring this compelling series — based on Marissa Stapley’s fantastic novel — to audiences around the world.”

Where is Lucky being filmed?

David Vives/Pexels

Drew Starkey and Anya Taylor-Joy were spotted filmingLucky at a Las Vegas casino on February 24, and will film the rest of the show in Los Angeles.

Where can I watch Lucky TV show?

KoolShooters/Pexels

Lucky will be available to stream on Apple TV+.

We don't have a release date yet, but stay tuned for the latest news on Lucky!

This post has been updated.

Whether you're the maid of honor who's making sure the bride-to-be has a super exciting send off into this next chapter, or the bride-to-be in question who would rather take the reins of her own destiny, it's likely that you're gonna plan a bachelorette party prior to The Big Day. Amid all the wedding dress shopping and tablescape planning and talking through literally every single detail, it's important that this once-in-a-lifetime celebration with the bridal party is particularly special. And while Austin and Nashvegas are never a bad choice for a bachelorette party, sometimes you just want something a little different. With that in mind, I've rounded up 10 of the best bachelorette party destinations to pick for your favorite bride this year! Cheers, girlies!

Best Bachelorette Party Destinations In The United States

Image via AC Naples Hotel 5th Avenue

Naples, FL

There’s no better place to visit than sunny Florida and you can’t go wrong with a trip to Naples for a bachelorette party. Whether you want to relax by the beach or hit up the town, you’ll find everything in more in this city. Stay at the AC Naples Hotel 5th Avenue for easy access to the city’s unofficial main street and waterfront shopping destinations just a few steps away. For some nighttime fun, head on over to Cavo Lounge for a night full of dancing and drag shows and then late-night bites at The Hampton Social.

Image via The Equestrian Hotel

Ocala, FL

Looking for a more niche-option? Visit Ocala, Florida to be immersed in nature and wildlife of all sorts. From accommodations to attractions, nature and animal lovers will be in heaven. Horse lovers will fall head over heels for The Equestrian Hotel where they can watch horse races and enjoy a rejuvenating spa appointment. When meal time rolls around, stop by Mark’s Prime Steakhouse or Katya Vineyards for wine tasting and delicious fine dining your party will love.

Image via Paws Up Resort

Greenough, MT

A bride-to-be who can’t get enough of natural greenery will love a trip to Greenough, Montana. Start your trip at Paws Up Resort where you’ll find accommodations on a luxury ranch with glamping tents and vacation homes. Other activities in the area include trips to historical monuments like Greenough Mansion. Plus, stop by some craft distilleries including Montgomery Distillery to try hand crafted spirits and beverages.

Image via The Joule

Dallas, TX

The catchphrase “Everything’s better in Texas” not only applies to the southern culture, but also the restaurants, entertainment, and accommodations that make Dallas a must-visit destination. For bachelorette parties, not only will you find boutique hotels like The Joule filled with luxurious amenities like a spa and rooftop pools, but attractions including Party Cove for a relaxed boating experience and The Dallas Party Bike for lots of laughs, sights, and good times all around. When it comes time to eat, you’ll want to make reservations at Crown Block and Hudson House.

Image via The Ritz Carlton

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is known for its tasty food, soulful music, and historic landmarks making it the perfect bachelorette party destination. Kick your visit off right by getting a room at The Ritz Carlton which will immerse you into the heart of the French Quarter and then head on out to the streets to find a plethora of shops, restaurants, and activities. Stop by Brigtsen’s for some classic cajun cuisine and dance the night away at The Metropolitan.

Image via Rosehill Vineyards

Long Island, NY

I know what you're thinking: the Hamptons? In this economy? Well, I'm here to let you in on a little secret — Long Island is much bigger than Montauk. TKTK Hampton Bays TKTK The Hampton Maid TKTK Greenport TKTK North Fork Vineyards like Wölffer Estate Vineyards and Rosehill Vineyards.

Image via Haley Sprankle

Miami, FL

This may seem like your typical bachelorette party destination, but Miami is honestly always a smooth move. I'd book a star at The Goodtime Hotel so you can take advantage of Strawberry Moon and all it's party glory. Content Editor Haley Sprankle went recently, and there was a literal champagne shower in the middle of the pool...definitely good vibes for the girlies! If you're looking for some delicious dining, Miami has a ton of great food, too! Komodo is a sceney restaurant for all your Hot Girl pics (and the most delicious lobster lo mein), C.Viche 105 has amazing Peruvian fair like ceviche and lomo saltado, and Bachour is perfect for brunch! And while there's no shortage of places to go out in Miami, Wynwood is a great neighborhood to hit the town.

Best Bachelorette Party Destinations Around The World

Image via Hotel Rochechouart

Paris, FR

Take a trip to Paris for an international and culturally-enriching experience suitable for any bachelorette party. Aside from seeing the Eiffel Tower, you can make pit stops at The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Disneyland Paris. For added convenience, stay in the heart of Paris at Hotel Rochechouart that offers picturesque views and close proximity to popular destinations. There's plenty of perfect little side cafes and sweet spots to grab a drink, but here are a few options to keep in mind!
  • Visit one of the top 50 bars in the world, The Cambridge Public House, for unique cocktails and absolutely amazing pub food.
  • Swap out a more typical Magic Mike/Chippendales show and swing by Crazy Horse for a fun, artistic, and sexy show! The burlesque is amazing, and the girls will love sitting in the elegant theater with a few bottles of champagne to share. For a more tame burlesque show, visit the ever-iconic Moulin Rouge.
  • Book a reservation at Le Bon Georges for one of the best meals — and biggest wine selection!

Image via Atlantis

Atlantis, The Bahamas

Venture to the Bahamas to celebrate the bride-to-be at Atlantis. Choose from one of six resorts from The Cove for a more luxury stay to The Reef that’s geared more towards families. Aside from picturesque views and comfortable beds, you can engage in outdoor activities from marine adventures to crystal clear beaches for the ultimate relaxation experience. Plus, you may even be able to see some celebrities on your trip from Janet Jackson to DJ Pauly D.

Image via Meliá

Cozumel, Mexico

Mexico is always a good idea for a bachelorette party. Be sure to book your stay at Meliá Cozumel — it's an all-inclusive resort so all you have to worry about is whether you want a piña colada or a frozen margarita. From there, you've got beach days, pool soaking, spa appointments, and girly time galore. Sit back, relax, and party.

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Header image via RDNE Stock project / PEXELS

It is that time again. Venus retrograde has arrived, and it has an essential message for those in love or on the quest to find it. The word "retrograde" may sound alarm bells for most people, but I would like to reassure you that it helps you pay attention and recognize what you need whenever a planetary retrograde occurs. With Venus retrograde happening from March 1 to April 12, it will shift the focus on how individualized we are in the realms of love and the way we project our leadership in relationships. The love planet begins its backward dance in the sign of Aries. Its revisitation in Pisces on March 27 will unearth past themes involving connections and the purity of connections in relationships. If retrograde is still a term that makes you nervous, let go of the fear; there's always a way to navigate these times with peace and awareness. Read on and learn more about this Venus retrograde 2025 and how the love planet will impact each astrological sign.

Scroll to find out what your zodiac sign can expect during the Venus retrograde.

What Happens During Venus Retrograde?

Emmanuel Torres

When a planet advances far ahead from its course in our orbit, the Sun pulls it back in line in space so it won't veer off track within the line-up of the other planets. Venus undergoes this backward spin every 18 months, and it actually forms a 5-petaled rose when seen from a geocentric perspective during this orbital dance! We can always count on Venus and its romantic touch.

From a general perspective, Venus in retrograde presents lessons about paying attention to our love life, values, and even how we radiate our inner and outer beauty. Retrogrades present a period of inner reflection, and when Venus is involved, it will involve our inner nature and how it clashes with vanity. It's also recommended to hold off on trying a dramatic hair transformation during this transit or scheduling cosmetic procedures. Although it can be tempting, it may lead to unexpected results. This Venus retrograde period will invoke a review regarding your standards inside and out.

The average time that Venus goes in between signs is about 20 days, but when a retrograde occurs, our love and our inner values will undergo a review within a 2-month range. This Venus in Aries retrograde will help you understand your individuality and name your relationship terms.

If you're single, this is your moment to reflect and celebrate you! This Venus retrograde will allow you to step into self-empowerment and set the stage to attract better relationship connections as you hold yourself on a pedestal. If you're in a relationship, you and your significant other will see each other in a different light, involving leadership and the need for progression. Expressing what you want while understanding the importance of initiating your desired changes will get things moving once Venus Direct occurs on April 13. Everything about yourself and the reasoning behind your connection will come to light.

Another thing to note is that you should look at what house Venus will reside in your birth chart while it retrogrades in the sign of Aries. This will reveal which area needs focus in your life.

What Is Happening During this 2025 Venus Retrograde?

Zyra Brown

Now to better understand how this retrograde will impact you, let’s take a closer look at Venus and its current filter. The love planet entered the Mars-ruled sign of Aries on February 4, and the overall tone will stir themes involving power play and aggression in love and relationships. The cardinal fire sign Aries rules the 1st house of self, identity, and initiation, and with Venus positioned in this house, we are likely feeling the pull to start things up or have the desire to be seen. Backtrack and begin reviewing your organization and paying attention to the details before starting anything. You will be better prepared and attract the desired results when Venus Direct happens. Generally, this energy can be translated as selfish, arrogant, and controlling. Become a leader based on the greater good. Controlling others to yield to your demands will only backfire.

Also, the balancing act beckons as tempers can run high, or you can feel discouraged when your ideas are not being received. The powerful flair of Venus in Aries can also lead to feelings of separation or selfishness. Negotiating and holding space to understand others will keep you balanced during this retrograde period. When Venus backspins into the Neptune-ruled sign of Pisces on March 27, expect to feel more introspective and begin to prioritize relaxation. The mutable sign Pisces rules the 12th house of dreams, subconscious realms, and isolation. It is not an ideal time to push through to make things happen, only inner reflection. Our dreams may get visceral, and our moods may heighten emotionally. Create art, listen to music, or work through any unresolved matters you may have overlooked. Peace follows as you clear out.

What are some things to avoid during this 2025 Venus Retrograde?

victoria harder

  • Beginning new relationships
  • Getting married/wedding planning
  • Major beauty transformations (hair, cosmetic procedures)
  • Initiate new business ventures or investments
  • Major purchases lead to overspending (car, furniture, art, house, business)

What are some things to do during Venus Retrograde?

Maryam Hanif

  • Reflect on your relationship
  • Talk to your ex if you need closure (don't rekindle...yet)
  • Review the state of your finances, investments, assets
  • Declutter your living surroundings and sell quality items for profit
  • Beauty and self-care rituals
  • Meditation
  • Journaling
  • Self-Care Routines
  • Energy Healing

How Venus Retrograde 2025 Will Impact the Zodiac Signs

Eleanor Lee

Anyone with cardinal sign positions such as the sun, moon, rising, or other astrological placements in Aries, Libra, Capricorn, and Cancer will experience the impact of this Venus retrograde more so than other signs. Also, when Venus ingresses into Pisces on March 27, the mutable signs Pisces, Virgo, Gemini, and Sagittarius will be impacted. Here is the general overview of what to expect during this 2025 Venus Retrograde. Read for your sun and rising sign for extended insight!

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

What do you see when you look into the mirror, Aries? Venus retrograde begins in your sign before retreating into your 12th house next month, and the love planet urges you to reflect on your self-worth, beauty, and past relationships. Nostalgia may pull your heartstrings, and hidden emotions resurface. Focus on self-care and healing rather than seeking external validation.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Observe your internal landscape as Venus retrograde unveils, inspires you to go through inner work, and prompts you to beautify your soul. When it progresses into your 11th house later this month, Venus will prompt you to pay attention to your friendships, support systems, and personal dreams. You may re-evaluate certain relationships, realizing who truly stands by your side. If past friendships resurface, reflect on whether they align with your growth. Avoid making impulsive social commitments, as clarity will come after April 12 when Venus moves forward again.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your views will alter your feelings in your networks and friendship circles as Venus retrograde will help you see how far you are progressing with your goals and whether you are being given authentic support. Later this month, the love planet moves back into your 10th house, granting you focus on career matters. You may find yourself questioning your professional relationships or re-evaluating your public image. Avoid making major career decisions or committing to new collaborations until Venus moves direct on April 12.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Venus's retrograde encourages you to review your current situation in your career. It may prompt you to pick up on an old endeavor or reflect on who you want to be professionally. Later this month, the love planet will move back into your 9th house. It will help you stand still and observe your inner beliefs. You may question whether your current path aligns with your values. This is a time for internal reflection rather than drastic action, as Venus will move direct on April 12.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

As the prideful sign, Venus retrograde in your 9th house prompts you to look deeper and yet at all angles involving your passions before proceeding. Confidence is birthed as you open yourself to new approaches. Later this month, the love planet moves back into your 8th house, beckoning deep reflection on your intimate relationships and financial matters. Past connections may resurface, urging you to redefine trust and shared resources. Avoid making major financial commitments until Venus moves direct on April 12.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Venus retrograde shakes up your 8th house, granting you space to review your inner needs and views on intimate connections. When the love planet backspins into your 7th house later this month, past relationship dynamics may resurface, allowing you to review commitments and lingering issues. Avoid making long-term relationship decisions until Venus Direct on April 12.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Venus retrograde begins its backspin in your 7th house, and these next few weeks will inspire you to reflect on how balanced you are feeling lately between love and daily responsibilities. To restore your well-being, allow the people-pleasing to take the backseat. Later this month, Venus moves back into your 6th house, helping you rethink how much energy you dedicate to others versus yourself. Hold off on major relationship decisions until Venus Direct occurs on April 12.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Venus retrograde helps you recalibrate your mind, body, and spirit with its sluggish motion in your 6th house. You may feel a little run down, and the best anecdote is through mindfulness practices and continued self-care. Venus' lesson is to observe how much you spend your energy. Intention breathes preservation. When the love planet moves into your 5th house later this month, it inspires you to reflect on your creative pursuits, romantic connections, and personal passions. Past lovers or unfinished artistic projects may resurface. Avoid making major romantic decisions until Venus moves direct on April 12.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Love and the source of your joy grab your attention as Venus begins its backspin in your 5th house of romance and creativity. Your children will be the primary focus, and the love planet will show how you genuinely connect with them. It is also a period for inner child work or revisiting old projects. Later this month, Venus will move into your 4th house, encouraging you to beautify the home and hold off from scheduling renovations. Declutter your home and reorganize your living space.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

Venus begins its backward dance in your 4th house, prompting you to reconnect with your roots. Stability can be found as you are open to being vulnerable with your family. As the love planet moves into your 3rd house, it will bring up past matters involving communication and messages exchanged with siblings or close connections. Clear the air by revisiting what has not been resolved.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

It will be time to retrace your steps and observe how you articulate your messages as Venus retrograde slows down in your 3rd house of communication. You may feel overwhelmed and burnt out from brainstorming an endless stream of ideas. Your close connections may have difficulty keeping up, so have a journal handy to look back on when Venus Direct motion happens on April 12. When Venus moves into your 2nd house on March 27, avoid big purchases and focus on re-evaluating how you create stability through money and possessions.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Venus retrograde begins its slow dance in your 2nd house on March 1. Analyze your finances and spending habits. When filing for taxes, look closely at everything before submitting your information to your accountant. As Venus crosses back into your 1st house, luckily, this will be an opportune time to beautify your inner and outer beauty. Avoid booking cosmetic procedures or trying a new haircut. You may question your image or values—take this time to nurture your sense of self before Venus moves direct on April 12.

Want to learn the astrology basics and decode your birth chart? Take a look at Lumi's beginner's astrology workbook!

For more astrology advice, be sure to Ask Lumi here and follow the convo on Facebook!

Surprise proposals are always magical (hi, Benny Blanco & Selena Gomez!), but we've gotten picky about which engagement rings make us swoon these days. Some of our prior favorite trends have become outdated, and it would more sad if they weren't other gorgeous options on the market. Even so, it's not easy to narrow down which ones will overpower or age your hands. Thankfully we've solved the big mystery for you so you can flaunt your fiancée title with the best accessory!

Scroll for engagement rings that aren't worth adding to your "secret" Pinterest board!

Gabriel & Co.

1. Double Halo Engagement Rings: Gabriel & Co. 14K White Gold Double Halo Ring

Once upon a time, double halo engagement rings were widely popular and a good indicator that someone was willing to make your hand look extremely good. But that's not the case anymore! As coveted as this style used to be, it now comes across as gaudy and overpowering.

If you're dropping hints to your partner, perhaps leave this "outdated" style in your drafts!

Kay Jewelers

2. Princess Cut Engagement Rings: Kay Jewelers Lab Grown Princess-Cut Solitaire Ring

We were sure princess cut engagement rings meant we were going to embody the lives of our favorite Disney princesses — mainly Cinderella. We even told ourselves we'd be 100% okay with just a single diamond in the middle of a plain band. Now we know there's other options we can choose from. From cushion to emerald cut, none of us have to relegate ourselves to a style of the past!

Brilliant Earth

3. Thick Band Engagement Rings: Brilliant Earth Alden Ring

Did you just yelp or was that us? Maybe it was a collective sound heard around the world because wearing an engagement ring with a thick band seems like something our grandmothers would love. Though we don't always question their personal style, there's something "vintage" about this trend that doesn't make us feel great. Also, this ring will likely swallow your finger if your hand is on the slender side!

Shane Co.

4. Excessively Vintage Engagement Rings: Shane Co. Natasha Lab-Grown Engagement Ring

Hear us out — vintage rings are gorgeous and have the rare ability of being unique in a sea of familiar engagement choices. But reaching for something that feels like you can buy it from somewhere like Shein for way less than the market price shouldn't make anyone feel good.

Believe us when we say this trend is "outdated!"

Vrai

5. Rose Gold Engagement Rings: Vrai Side Cluster Cathedral Oval Engagement Ring

Rose gold engagement rings were an alternative to the general metals we're used to seeing (i.e., white gold, platinum or yellow gold), but we think they're losing their touch. We've also noticed that some jewelers have their own definition of how this trend looks so it's not as easy to tell what people consider to be "rose gold."

Your best bet is to try engagement rings on in person to see what looks best on your skin so your partner's able to make a more informed decision!

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