Huge congratulations! You’re now engaged and floating around in a blissfully romantic haze. Mmm, feels nice. But, between practicing your soon-to-be-signature and flicking through bridal magazines, there’s work to be done. After all, this will be your Big Day and it’s all in the planning. So, what next?
Announce the News
Step away from Twitter and Facebook. No mother, father, sibling or best friend wants to hear your big news in less than 140 characters. Visit in person or pick up the phone. Once you’ve told your nearest and dearest, you can then go viral via social media. For a sprinkling of Downton Abbey, place an announcement in a local or national newspaper.
Set the Date
… even if you can’t stick to it exactly. There is nothing worse, or almost nothing worse, than a couple that get engaged but don’t set a date.
Do you envisage a sun-soaked summer ceremony or a winter wedding surrounded by mistletoe and wine? If you have your heart set on a particular venue, you’ll need to check availability before finalizing the date. Scan an events calendar for the year ahead – school holidays mean people could be away and the FA Cup Final will be an unwelcome distraction.
Buy the Ring
Some say one or two months’ salary is the norm to spend on an engagement ring. Ignore that. The amount you spend should depend on your circumstances. Whatever ring you choose, check your home insurance covers it and if not, get it insured.
What Type of Wedding?
What do you want? Or rather, what do you BOTH want? Have you always dreamed of a traditional wedding, or do you want to be dangled from a bungee in a polka dot mini? Sit down with your partner and discuss details. Don’t be a lone ranger – haven’t you seen the Sex and the City movie where Carrie and Big are getting married?
Work out what is important together: do you want a band, a photographer, flowers, a free bar, is Vegas beckoning?
Set a Budget
The average wedding costs about £20,000. Some people spend £2,000 and others spend £40,000. Decide on your budget and stick to it.
Get Organized
The good thing is – this won’t be the hard part. Bride Book has everything to keep your wedding plan in one place. You can organize your budget, guest list, gift list and also create your seating plan, find and shortlist wedding suppliers.
Find A Venue
Once you know the type of wedding you want, your budget, a date and have an idea of numbers, you can look for a venue. As you look at the options, make sure you check their Terms and Conditions. Some will have restrictions on timings, some won’t allow candles, others won’t include drinks in the package. Get everything down and compare.
Save
Whatever wedding you’re planning, try to put aside some money each week or month to go towards the wedding or honeymoon.
And Finally…
Enjoy your engagement, have a party, take a romantic break, fantasize, practice your soon-to-be-signature, and look forward to your wedding day. Don’t you just love it when a plan comes together?