First of all - congratulations! You just got engaged, and this is one of the most exciting moments of your life. But after the initial wave of emotions settles, you might be wondering… what now? Here’s a guide to help you soak it all in and take the next steps.
1. Take It All In
Before diving into wedding planning, pause. Breathe. Look at your partner and let it sink in. This moment is yours - celebrate it in whatever way feels right. Pop some champagne, have a quiet dinner, or just spend time together reminiscing about your journey.
2. Share the News (Your Way)
Not everyone wants to do the classic ring selfie, and that’s okay. Decide how you want to share your engagement - whether it’s a private call to loved ones, a heartfelt Instagram post, or a full-blown engagement party. Just remember: tell your inner circle before posting online.
3. Get Your Ring Insured
Not the most romantic step, but absolutely necessary. Look into jewelry insurance or add it to your homeowner’s or renter’s policy. Better safe than sorry.
4. Start Talking About Your Vision
Before jumping into bookings, have a conversation with your partner about what kind of wedding you both want. Intimate backyard wedding? Grand ballroom affair? Destination elopement? Align your vision before family opinions start rolling in.
5. Set a Budget
Money talk isn’t fun, but it’s crucial. Sit down together and decide on a realistic budget. In the U.S., the average wedding costs around $30,000, but that number varies widely depending on location and guest count. Prioritize what matters most - whether it’s photography, food, or the perfect venue.
6. Choose a Rough Date
You don’t need to set a specific day right away, but having a general timeframe (spring 2026? Next fall?) helps guide your planning. If you have your heart set on a popular venue, vendor or season, booking early is key.
7. Research Marriage License Requirements
Every U.S. state has different laws about marriage licenses, waiting periods, and required documents. Check your state’s requirements early so you don’t run into surprises down the road.
8. Plan an Engagement Session
An engagement session isn’t just about getting great photos - it's about celebrating your love story at this moment. Plus, it’s the perfect way to get some professional photos done together, capturing this stage of your life, and also to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. Pick a location that means something to you, whether it’s your favorite coffee shop, the city where you met, or an epic landscape that matches your vibe.
9. Build Your Vendor Dream Team
Photographers, videographers, planners, florists - the best ones book fast, sometimes over a year in advance. If you have must-have vendors, reach out early to secure your date.
10. Enjoy This Season
Wedding planning can get overwhelming, but don’t let it consume you. Make time for date nights, spontaneous trips, and just being engaged. This is a once-in-a-lifetime season - soak it in.
What NOT to Do
Don’t rush into planning. Give yourself time to enjoy yourself before making big decisions.
Don’t feel pressured. Family and friends will have opinions, but this is YOUR wedding.
Don’t compare. Social media can make you feel like your wedding has to be extravagant - focus on what’s meaningful to you.
Planning a wedding is a journey, and photography is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Your love story deserves to be told in a way that’s real, raw, and authentically you. Let’s capture this season of your life - reach out to book your engagement session or inquiry about your wedding date today!
Ready to Capture Your Engagement Story?
We believe your love story deserves to be told in the most authentic way possible. Let’s ditch the awkward poses and create something real, raw, and uniquely you.
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