Expert Advice Every Newly Engaged Couple *Needs* to Read
Once the phone calls have been made, the Champagne poured and the Instagram engagement announcement posted, now what? While getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in one’s life, it’s easy to either feel stuck or overwhelmed by all of the looming decisions. Wedding planning is supposed to be fun and exciting, but we totally understand that it may be hard to figure out where to start. That’s why we chatted with some wedding industry professionals to dish on the best tips and advice to guide you through this time. Scroll on for some solid words of wisdom from the people who know best.
1. Stay true to yourself. Your wedding should reflect your personality as a couple! Sara Fried of Fete Nashville says to “incorporate your mutual interests when choosing everything from the venue to a creative and unique guest book.” Stick to what makes you happy and “ignore obligation,” says Antonia Christianson of Antonia Christianson Events. (Photo via Chris Schmitt Photography / Event Design: Wedding Kate Events)
2. Food is important. Make finding a quality caterer a priority. Your caterer should understand the entire experience you want to create for your guests. Modern Art Catering of Los Angeles believes “food is such a powerful part of your guests’ wedding experience – make it delicious.” (Photo via Jessica Watson Photography / Event Design: Bridal Bliss)
3. Get on the same page. Discuss as a couple what is most important to you. First and foremost, agree on the size of the wedding. “Your venue, your budget and how many people you and your fiancé (and families) can invite will all be determined by this decision,” says Joanna August. (Photo via Taylor Abeel Photography)
4. Prioritize. Make a list of what’s most important to you on your big day. “If you know you have a big-drinking crowd, maybe curfew and alcohol policy is important to you when selecting a venue,” says The Venue Report. (Photo via Foxtail Photography / Styling: La Cosa Bella Events)
5. Select personable vendors. Avoid getting overwhelmed by the plethora of options by “only contacting your top three vendors for each category based on the style of their work and price range,” suggests NST Pictures. You’re going to be working closely with several vendors, so it’s also important you “feel like they are a good fit on a personal level,” says Hidden Garden Flowers. (Photo via This Modern Romance / Dress: Love and Lace Bridal Salon)
6. Enjoy being engaged. This is one of the most exciting times in your life, so soak it all in and take your time with the wedding plans. “Once the planning starts it all changes, so enjoy the short moment of engagement while you can,” says Orla Stiles of Solstice Bride. (Photo via Buena Lane Photography, Event Design: Alissa Bell)
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