Congratulations on your engagement! Pop the champagne, you’re getting married! Before diving headfirst into wedding planning, take a moment to savor this milestone. You’ve just said “yes” to forever with your favorite person—how amazing is that? Whether you’re still basking in the glow of the proposal or already envisioning your dream wedding, these first steps after getting engaged will set you on the right path. Let’s dive into the exciting journey of planning a wedding in Charleston, SC together!
Celebrate and Enjoy the Moment
Before diving into wedding planning, take time to celebrate with your partner. Enjoy the excitement and cherish this special moment. It’s a significant milestone, and you both deserve to bask in the joy of your engagement. Have a quiet dinner together or plan a small celebration with close family and friends. Relish in the love and excitement that this new chapter brings.
Announce Your Engagement
After savoring the initial joy, it’s time to announce your engagement. Start by sharing the news with close family and friends. Once your inner circle knows, feel free to make a public announcement on social media. This is a great way to share your happiness and excitement with a wider audience.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget is crucial for effective wedding planning. Discuss finances openly with your partner and any contributing family members. Determine a realistic budget that includes all potential expenses. Your budget will guide many decisions, from the venue to the number of guests. Make sure to include a contingency fund for unexpected costs. A well-planned budget helps keep your Charleston wedding planning stress-free.
Choose a Date
Selecting a wedding date is a key step. Consider seasons, weather, and the availability of important guests. Choose a few potential dates and be flexible, especially if you’re eyeing popular venues or vendors. Once you have a date or a specific timeframe, you can move forward with more detailed planning.
Create a Guest List
Start by drafting a preliminary list of guests. This will help you understand the size of the venue you’ll need. Consider the type of wedding you want, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large celebration. Your guest list will impact your budget and venue options, so it’s important to get a rough idea early on.
Book Your Venue
Booking your venue is one of the most crucial steps in Charleston wedding planning. Popular venues can be booked up to a year in advance. Start your search early and visit multiple locations. Consider factors like capacity, location, ambiance, and amenities included in the rental fee. Once you’ve found the perfect wedding venue, book it as soon as possible to secure your wedding date. Your venue sets the stage for your big day.
Research Local Vendors
Charleston is home to many talented wedding vendors. From florists to caterers, take time to research and meet with potential vendors. Look for those who align with your vision and style. Recommendations from friends and family can also be invaluable. Building a team of reliable vendors will ensure your wedding day runs smoothly.
Plan for Weather
Charleston’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the summer months. Consider having a contingency plan for outdoor events. Renting tents, choosing venues with indoor options, or having backup dates can save you from last-minute stress. Discuss weather plans with your vendors to ensure everyone is prepared.
Capture the Moments
Engagement photos are a wonderful way to celebrate this special time in your life. Charleston offers stunning backdrops for your engagement shoot. From historic downtown streets to picturesque beaches, choose a location that holds meaning for you as a couple. These photos can also be used for save-the-date cards and wedding websites.
Complete Weddings + Events Makes Your Charleston Wedding Planning Simple
The Complete Weddings + Events team has collaborated with numerous event and wedding vendors that you might consider for your Charleston wedding. With our expertise in photo, video, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services, we are here to help make your wedding planning easy! After you’ve taken the time to celebrate your engagement, reach out to us and start tackling your wedding to-do list. Waiting to start planning? No worries, head to our blog or Instagram page in the meantime for all things wedding to get you inspired!