Pop the champagne—you’re getting married! Before diving headfirst into wedding planning, take a moment to savor this milestone. You 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, the steps you take now will help set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Let’s dive into this exciting journey of wedding planning together!
Celebrate and Enjoy the Moment
Before you start crafting your Pinterest-perfect wedding day, pause to soak in this life-changing moment. Celebrate with your partner by reflecting on your relationship and the exciting journey ahead. Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two, a small gathering with close friends and family, or simply taking time to appreciate your love story!
Announce Your Engagement
Once you’ve had a chance to celebrate privately, share the news! Start by telling your closest family and friends, either in person or through a heartfelt call or video chat. If social media is your game, make your big announcement on Facebook or Instagram. Check out our post celebrating Paige & Jordan’s recent engagement! It’s the perfect way to spread your joy and get everyone excited for your journey to “I do.”
Set a Budget
Time to start planning! Start by setting a realistic budget. Have an open conversation with your partner about your priorities and expectations. Consider all potential expenses, from the venue and catering to attire and decor. Don’t forget to include a little wiggle room for unexpected costs—it’ll save you stress later. With a solid budget in place, you’ll feel much more confident about your planning decisions.
Choose a Date
Your wedding date sets the timeline for all your planning. Think about the season, weather, and availability of loved ones who simply can’t miss the day. Choose a few potential dates and stay flexible, especially if you’re considering popular venues. Once your date is set, it’s time to dive deeper into the details!
Create a Guest List
Draft a preliminary guest list early on. It doesn’t need to be final, but having an idea of your numbers will help guide venue selection and budget allocations. Are you envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand affair? Your guest list will shape the feel of your big day, so start brainstorming now. If you need help determining if you should have a big or small event, check out our blog that discusses the pros and cons.
Book Your Venue
The venue is one of the most important decisions in your wedding planning process. Start researching as soon as possible—popular locations often book out over a year in advance. The Kansas Wedding Venues website is a great place to start your search. When touring venues, keep in mind your guest count, budget, and the overall vibe you’re aiming for. Once you’ve found the one, lock it in and breathe a sigh of relief. You’ve just completed one of the biggest steps!
Register for Bridal Expos
Bridal expos are a fantastic way to jumpstart your planning. They offer you the unique opportunity to meet vendors, gather inspiration, and even score deals for your big day. Consider attending local events like the Flint Hills Bridal Show, where you’ll find everything from caterers and photographers to DJs and dress shops. Plus, it’s a fun outing for you and your partner (or bridal party)!
Plan for Engagement Photos
Your engagement is a moment worth capturing! Schedule a photo session with a professional photographer to commemorate this exciting chapter. These photos can double as save-the-date cards, wedding website visuals, or simply treasured keepsakes. Coordinate your outfits, pick a location meaningful to your relationship, and let your love shine.
This is just the beginning of an incredible journey. Remember to take it one step at a time, stay true to what matters most to you as a couple, and enjoy every part of the process. Happy planning!
Complete Weddings + Events Manhattan, KS | Photographers | Videographers | DJs | Photo Booth Rental | Coordination
Whether you want a trendy celebration or a traditional wedding, let Complete Weddings + Events Kansas help you bring your wedding dreams to life! With our photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services, we’re here to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience.
The best part is you get a team of wedding professionals to help with all the details from our knowledgeable office staff, in-house full-time wedding planners, and experienced event staff. We have you covered and want your planning process to be a stress-free experience!
Contact us for more information on our services and pricing for your big day!