How to Start: A Guide for the Newly Engaged
¡Congratulations! You have the ring, you have the excitement, but… now what?
We know the first few days after the engagement are an emotional roller coaster. As an Event Planner with nearly 100 stories coordinated, my most direct advice is: breathe. Before rushing to look for the dress or the venue, follow these strategic steps so the planning is as enjoyable as the big day itself.
Define Your "Non-Negotiable”
Sit down as a couple and decide what matters most to you. Is it the food? Is it having a destination wedding at a specific hacienda? Or maybe, having the party last until dawn? Having this clear will help you make direct decisions when the sea of options tries to overwhelm you.
The Budget: The Foundation of Everything
Here comes my marketer side: you need a real number. You can't start dreaming without solid ground.
Pro Tip: Set aside 10% of your budget for unforeseen expenses. Trust me, they always come up, and having that cushion will give you invaluable peace of mind.
The Guest List (Preliminary Version)
You don't need every distant cousin's name yet, but you do need an approximate number (50, 150, or 300 people?). The size of the list dictates the type of venue and, of course, the catering.
Choose Your Team of Experts
Organizing a wedding is a full-time job. Hiring a Wedding Planner is not a luxury; it's an investment in your mental health and in the success of your event.
"You really have to believe in yourself to keep growing" and, in this case, believe that you deserve a team to handle every logistical detail for you.
Enjoy the Process
Don't let logistics overshadow the romance. At the end of the day, the wedding is just the first day of an incredible marriage.