Little Steps You Can Take Before Getting Engaged
Many people assume that planning a wedding begins after a couple gets engaged. However, this isn’t exactly the protocol anymore. Nowadays, it is more common for couples to have a preliminary discussion about engagement instead of it happening by surprise. This gives people the chance to plan ahead and make the decision at a time when it works best financially, emotionally, and mentally. It also provides a bit of a head start on planning responsibilities. If you’ve recently had a discussion about engagement, you may want to get your wheels in motion.
Review these suggestions on planning steps to take before your engagement happens. Though you won’t be doing any of the heavy lifting just yet, these preliminary moves can get you excited.
Put Together Inspiration
Some people start planning their nuptials when they’re little. If you’re someone who has never thought about your ideal wedding, however, you may not want to wait until your engagement to start looking for inspiration. The internet is a treasure trove of images, videos, and blog posts that can offer you a wealth of planning ideas. The moment you realize an engagement is on the horizon, start putting together a collection of images that capture what you want your event to look like.
Decide How and When To Announce the News
The practice of announcing news to family and friends has changed considerably since the dawn of social media. Some people can’t wait to get on Facebook or Instagram after getting engaged, ready to let the whole world know about this milestone moment. This is not the case for everyone, of course. You might want to use the pre-engagement period as an opportunity to discuss this topic with your partner. Decide if and when you will put the news online, and establish a small list of the family and friends you want to tell immediately when the decision is made.
Shop for Small Things
Though people get married all throughout the year, there are months that are more popular for such events to take place. This means that you’re more likely to see high prices on essential event items during the time dubbed “wedding season.” If you know you’ll be working on a limited budget, buy whatever you think you could get for a good price in advance. Simple purchases like stationery for invitations or favors for members of the wedding party can help you save a small chunk of change later on.
Write Out Your Thoughts
The time before you get engaged can be unique. Life is about to change in some dramatic ways, and you may have a ton of thoughts swirling around in your mind. Instead of moving forward without reflection, use this period as a chance for introspection. Write out your thoughts in this moment, including any feelings you have about the future. Include both positive points and any concerns you might have. You may never look at this writing again, but dedicating time to your own thoughts before a big decision can be useful.
Take Chances
You’re going to be spending a lot of money on your wedding. With this in mind, use the last days before your engagement as an opportunity to take chances you won’t be able to afford later. Go on a lavish vacation, purchase an item that you’ve had your eye on for years, or commit to a luxury option like a spa trip. You don’t want to drain your savings, of course. The idea is to have a little fun before a lifetime of responsibility.
Engagement is a big step for a couple. To feel like you’re on the right track for your future, prepare for this change in advance by tackling some simple planning tasks.