You’re Engaged, Now What? A Guide to What Comes Next After Saying “Yes”

Congratulations on your engagement! Now that you've said "yes" to the love of your life, the journey to your wedding day begins. From setting a date to selecting vendors and everything in between, here’s a detailed timeline to guide you through the next steps.

Immediately After the Engagement (0-1 Month)

1. Celebrate!

• Take time to enjoy the moment with your partner and loved ones. Share the news and celebrate your engagement together.

1. Announce Your Engagement

• Share the news with family and friends. Consider a social media announcement or a more intimate gathering.

1. Ring Insurance

• Ensure your engagement ring is insured. Check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, or obtain separate coverage.

1-3 Months After Engagement

1. Set a Wedding Date

• Discuss potential dates with your partner and consider factors like season, budget, and availability of key guests.

1. Draft a Budget

• Determine your overall wedding budget. Consider contributions from both families, if applicable, and prioritise spending categories.

1. Create a Rough Guest List

• Draft a list of potential guests to estimate the size of your wedding. This will help with venue selection and budget planning.

4-6 Months After Engagement

1. Choose Your Wedding Party

• Select your bridal party and ask them to be part of your special day.

1. Research and Book Your Venue

• Visit and book your ceremony and reception venues. Consider availability, capacity, and the overall ambiance.

1. Hire Key Vendors

• Secure essential vendors such as a photographer, caterer, and entertainment. Review contracts carefully before signing.

7-9 Months After Engagement

1. Order Your Wedding Attire

• Begin shopping for your wedding gown or attire for both the bride and groom. Allow time for fittings and alterations.

1. Send Save-the-Dates

• Send out save-the-date cards to inform guests of your wedding date and location, especially if many are travelling.

1. Plan Your Honeymoon
   

• Start researching and booking your honeymoon destination and accommodations. Consider travel logistics and budget.

10-12 Months After Engagement

1. Finalise Details

• Confirm catering menus, floral arrangements, and other details with your vendors. Make any necessary adjustments.

1. Order Wedding Rings

• Select and order wedding rings for both partners. Allow time for sizing and engraving.

1. Create a Wedding Website

• Build a wedding website to share important details with guests, such as accommodations, registry information, and the schedule.

12-18 Months After Engagement

1. Attend Pre-Wedding Events

• Plan and attend pre-wedding celebrations, such as engagement parties, bridal showers, and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

1. Final Fittings

• Schedule final fittings for your wedding attire. Ensure everything fits perfectly for your special day.

1. Obtain Marriage License

• Apply for and obtain your marriage license according to your local jurisdiction’s requirements.

1 Month Before the Wedding

1. Finalise Details

• Confirm final numbers with vendors, finalise seating arrangements, and create a timeline for the wedding day.

1. Rehearsal Dinner

• Plan and host the rehearsal dinner for your wedding party and immediate family members.

1. Relax and Enjoy

• Take time for self-care and relaxation in the days leading up to your wedding. Trust that you’ve planned a beautiful celebration.

Wedding Day!

1. Get Married!

• Finally, enjoy your wedding day surrounded by loved ones. Cherish every moment as you begin your journey together as a married couple.

Your engagement marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life. By following this timeline and guide, you’ll navigate the journey from engagement to wedding day with confidence and joy. Remember, each wedding is unique, so adapt these steps to suit your preferences and priorities. Congratulations again, and may your wedding day be as magical as your love story!