Engagement To Dos
Once the initial shock of being engaged wears off (and you take a second to peel your eyes away from that sparkly ring on your finger!), you'll need to make a lot of decisions. Don't get overwhelmed - here are the first nine things you need to do after you get engaged.
Set a Timetable
The first thing to consider is how long your engagement will be. This will depend on a couple of factors, such as your ideal wedding date and how much time you'll need to prepare. A typicial engagement lasts anywhere from six months to a year and a half or more. Keep in mind that some vendors and locations are booked a year or more in advance.
Envision the Style
Your wedding style will be reflected first and foremost in the locations, wether it's a luxe ballroom or an intimate backyard reception. Discuss with your fiance where your wedding will take place (your hometown, your current town or an exotic destination, for example) and then start scouting sites that can accommodate your wedding style.
Set your Budget
In the end, dollars, not dreams are a main determining factor for the size and style of your wedding. So, what affects the price tag?
Formality: In general, the more formal the reception, the more expensive.
Date and time: Saturdays, summer months and evenings tend to be the most costly times to have a reception.
Location: Typically a wedding in a major metropolitan area is more expensive than in a smaller town.
Determine a Date
Choosing a wedding date can be tougher than you'd think. There are a few things to consider: How much time do you need to prepare for your wedding? Do any loved ones have a conflicting graduation, vacation or pregnancy due date? If you have your heart set on a particular location or vendor, their availability may also play a large part in your decision. Try to avoid dates of big conventions or events that draw large crowds, since these might make it harder for out-of-town guests to get hotel rooms.
Announce Your Engagement
Call you local newspaper, alumni magazine and anywhere else you want your engagement announcement to appear. Ask for the writer's guidelines or a standardized form and if there's a fee for publication. Be sure to take your engagement photos before your announcement.
Choose Your Attendants
It's time to honor your closest friends and family members by picking your wedding party. Remember, the earlier you ask, the sooner you can enlist their help. But be careful about asking a friend that you have a rocky relationship with because you don't want to have to ask someone to step down. Keep in mind that your wedding party is agreeing to spend their hard-earned money and donate their precious time - be considerate and kind by informing everyone about all your plans, showing them a good time, and making sure they know how much you appreciate them.
Make a Guest List
As you begin to build your guest list, you'll need to consider a number of factors. if you have a particular ceremony or reception site in mind, you're going to be limited by how many people you can accommodate. Would you rather have one on one time with each guest or throw a once in a lifetime party for all of your friends? If mom and dad are adamant about inviting throngs of friends and family, you'll have to hear them out - especially if they are footing a major part of the bill. Remember than more guests means a larger bill, as catering costs are generally calculated on a per head basis. So, in addition to location, your budget will have a big influence on the size of your guest list.
Consider a Consultant
If you're a super busy couple, hire a full time wedding consultant to help you prepare your entire event, from the announcement to the honeymoon. You can also hire a part time consultant to devise a wedding blueprint - including budget, schedule and lists of good vendors - before you launch solo into the preparations. Another option is a day of coordinator (which is highly recommended), who will make sure everything goes as planned on your wedding day.
Start Gown Shopping
It's never too early to begin thinking about your dream wedding dress. Start by figuring out which style will look best on you. How? Learn the lingo before stepping foot in a dress salon. Read up on silhouettes, necklines, trains, and hue that might flatter you. Season will also affect your choice. Getting marries in the summer? Go with a lightweight fabric such as chiffon, line or organza. Having a winter wedding? Brocade, faux fur and velvet fabrics will keep you warm. Satin, shantung, silk and tulle are prefect year-round.
