13 Things To Do After Your Engaged

Updated – 5/20/2024

Congratulations on your engagement! This is going to be one of the most fun and exciting (sometimes stressful) parts of your life. There are so many things that go into planning your wedding day, but there are a few things that need to happen right after you get engaged. These 13 tasks—from the fun (get a manicure!) to the nitty-gritty (set your budget)—will get you organized, on track t, and well on your way to planning the best wedding ever!

1. Stop and Take In the Moment

There are few moments in your life as exciting as when you get engaged, so make sure that you take a little time to savor everything with your future spouse before you do anything else. Maybe take a few days (or hours if you can’t wait long) before you start telling people to have those special few moments with your soon-to-be spouse before the world knows.

2. Tell Your Family and Friends

Once you have taken your time to savor the moment, tell the ones that you love! Call, text, facetime, etc., and let all your loved ones know your exciting news! After you’ve told your closest people, you can announce through social media as well. There are a ton of cute ways to do this. Here are a couple of our faves!

• The classic ring shot.
• A photo of you with your spouse showing your new bling!
• A clip of your proposal (if you got it on video).

3. Schedule Engagement Photos

Scheduling an engagement session soon after getting engaged is important because they are often used for your save the dates and wedding website. And they are just fun to show off and post around socials, getting your guests excited for your big day!

4. Plan an Engagement Party (if you want)

You’re engaged. Now it’s time to celebrate with the ones you love! An engagement party isn’t required, but it can be a really fun way to celebrate with the people closest to you. This could be a big shindig or just a casual gathering or dinner, whatever you prefer!

5. Start Thinking About Your Vision

After you get engaged, it’s time to start thinking of the vision for your wedding (which I’m sure isn’t a completely new thought *wink*). Start thinking and discussing what colors you may want to choose, themes, or vibes that resonate with you both for your big day..

Once you have some ideas, consider signing up for a Pinterest Account to create an online inspiration board and start pinning ideas for your big day. Create a private board for ideas you don’t want your fiancé to see…like the dress of your dreams! This board will also help your wedding planner and other vendors understand and execute your vision.

6. Talk Numbers

The budget guides every decision you make in the planning process. Before doing anything, figure out a rough guest list and budget. Then, you can make decisions on your venue and vendors. Talking about budget early is super crucial because if you go in blindly and start booking things without setting a budget, things can get out of hand quickly. Talk honestly with your spouse about how much you are willing to spend on your big day, and keep track of everything. Keeping a budget spreadsheet is a great way to keep track of everything and it just so happens we have the perfect one for you to use! Click here to download the Happily Connected Wedding Budget Spreadsheet.

7. Start Looking at Dates

Once you get engaged it’s important to start looking at possible dates when you want to have your wedding – especially if you are planning a shorter engagement. Think about the time of year, specific months (if you have a preference), and if there are any dates that are special to you to consider. Once you decide your date you will be able to actively progress with the rest of the planning.

8. Think About the Wedding Party

Decide who you want to stand by your side on your big day. Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party, and ask them to be a part of your special day.

9. Hire a wedding planner

Wedding Planners are worth their weight in gold! We recommend hiring a planner first before any other vendor, including choosing your venue. Oftentimes, planners wish they could turn back time and show new clients a venue that would have been a much better fit for them.

10. Find a wedding venue

Securing your venue early is essential, especially for popular months like May, June, September, and October when bookings fill up fast. Look for a venue that aligns with your vision, whether it’s a black-tie ballroom or a modern minimalist space, while also fitting within your budget. Consider options beyond the traditional banquet hall to find the perfect setting for your special day.

11. Start Booking In-DemandVendors

Prioritize booking key vendors such as the venue, photographer, caterer, and entertainment. These professionals are often in high demand and book up quickly, especially for popular dates. Begin your search early by researching and reaching out to potential vendors. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and schedule meetings to discuss your needs. Aim to secure these essential vendors shortly after finalizing your venue and date to ensure a smooth planning process.

12. Stay organized

When planning a wedding, many pieces need to fit together. A comprehensive checklist will help you stay on track. Click here to download the Happily Connected Wedding Planning Checklist.

13. Enjoy the Engagement

Amidst all the planning, don’t forget to enjoy being engaged! Take time to savor this special time in your relationship and celebrate your love for each other.