Congratulations on your engagement! This is a joyous and exciting time, filled with love, anticipation, and a flurry of emotions. Now that you’ve said “yes,” the next big question is: where do you start? Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially in a vibrant city like Atlanta, GA, with its plethora of venues, vendors, and cultural influences. To help you navigate this beautiful journey, we’ve outlined the essential first steps to take after getting engaged in Atlanta GA.
Just Engaged? Tips for Wedding Planning in Atlanta, GA
1. Celebrate and Savor the Moment
Before diving into wedding planning, take some time to bask in the glow of your engagement. Share the happy news with close family and friends, perhaps through an intimate gathering or a simple phone call. Enjoy this special period of your relationship by celebrating your love and the commitment you’ve made to each other.
2. Set a Preliminary Budget
One of the first practical steps in wedding planning is setting a budget. Discuss your financial situation with your partner and decide how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding. Consider contributions from family members and outline major expenses like the wedding venue, catering, attire, and photography. A well-defined budget will serve as the foundation for all your wedding decisions.
3. Choose a Preferred Wedding Date or Season
Select a few potential dates or at least a preferred season for your wedding. Keep in mind that Atlanta’s weather can vary, with hot summers and mild winters. If you have your heart set on an outdoor ceremony, spring or fall might be ideal. Having a date in mind will help when booking venues and vendors.
4. Create a Guest List
Drafting a preliminary guest list early on is crucial. It will give you a rough idea of the size of your wedding, which affects venue selection and budget. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, knowing your guest count will help you make informed decisions as you move forward.
5. Research and Visit Venues
Atlanta offers a diverse range of wedding venues, from historic mansions and elegant ballrooms to trendy lofts and scenic gardens. Start by researching venues online and narrowing down your list based on style, capacity, and budget. Schedule visits to your top choices to get a feel for the space and discuss availability with the venue coordinators.
6. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner
If the thought of planning your wedding feels daunting, consider hiring a wedding planner. A local wedding planner with expertise in the Atlanta wedding scene can offer invaluable guidance, vendor recommendations, and logistical support. They can help you navigate the planning process smoothly and ensure your vision comes to life.
7. Start Gathering Inspiration
Begin collecting wedding inspiration to help shape your vision for the big day. Create a Pinterest board, browse wedding magazines, and follow local Atlanta wedding blogs and social media accounts. Pay attention to themes, color palettes, and styles that resonate with you. Having a clear vision will make decision-making easier as you plan.
8. Book Key Vendors Early
Popular vendors in Atlanta, such as photographers, caterers, and florists, can get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. Once you have your date and venue secured, start booking your key vendors as soon as possible. Reach out for consultations, review portfolios, and read reviews to ensure you’re choosing the right professionals for your wedding.
9. Plan Your Engagement Party
An engagement party is a wonderful way to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with family and friends. Whether you opt for a casual backyard BBQ or a formal dinner, an engagement party can be a great opportunity to introduce your loved ones to each other and kick off the wedding festivities.
10. Announce Your Engagement
Consider how you want to share your engagement news with the wider world. Engagement announcements can be made through social media, traditional newspaper announcements, or even a dedicated wedding website. An engagement photoshoot in one of Atlanta’s picturesque locations, such as Piedmont Park or the Atlanta Botanical Garden, can provide beautiful images to accompany your announcement.
11. Register for Gifts
Set up a wedding registry to guide your guests in selecting gifts that you’ll truly appreciate and use. Many Atlanta-based stores offer in-store registry services, or you can choose online options for added convenience. Include a variety of price points to accommodate all your guests.
12. Attend Local Bridal Shows
Atlanta hosts several bridal shows and expos throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to meet vendors, see the latest wedding trends, and gather inspiration. These events can be a fun and productive way to jumpstart your planning process.
Contact Complete Weddings + Events – Atlanta for your Special Pricing
At Complete Weddings + Events, we offer fantastic “Package Pricing” especially if you bundle more than one service – DJs, Photography, Videography, and Photo Booth.
Getting engaged is the beginning of an exciting journey toward your wedding day. By taking these initial steps in Atlanta, GA, you’ll be well on your way to planning a beautiful and memorable celebration of your love. Remember to enjoy the process, lean on your support system, and savor every moment of this special time in your life. Happy planning!
Contact us today to get started planning a wedding in Atlanta, GA.