❸
Decide on an overall budget. The two of you
should sit down and determine what you can realistically afford (or want) to spend on your wedding celebration. This is also the time to discuss how expenses will
be shared.
❹
Book your ceremony and reception venues. Decide when and where you want to tie the knot then reserve your ceremony and reception venues. Do this as
early as possible to hold your desired space. If you’re
planning an outdoor affair, arrange for tent rental.
❺
Start your guest list. Get together with your
honey and create your guest list. This will likely require
your parents’ input as well. Having an idea of the guest
count will help in your venue selections.
You’re Engaged!
Here are the first things to do after the question is
popped.
A
s the days get shorter and cooler, it won’t be long
before engagement season (the period between
❻
Plan your engagement party. All events that
take place between the proposal and the Big Day are
special, but the engagement party is so special for a couple of reasons. It's your first opportunity to celebrate
your impending nuptials with those closest to you. It
also gives the two families a chance to really get to
know each other and get used to the idea of working
together as the wedding day approaches.
Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day) is in full swing. It’s
estimated that one-third of all proposals for the year
take place during this time.
If you've already "gotten the ring", you no doubt
want to shout it from the rooftops or at least share the
news with everyone you know or who will listen (I was
recently "ring flashed" by a giddy newly-engaged
stranger). After sharing your wonderful news, there are
some important first steps to take as you prepare to
make your way down the aisle.
❶
Have your engagement ring appraised and insured as soon as possible. This will protect your investment should your ring get lost, stolen or damaged. Jewelers Mutual Insurance (jewelersmutualinsurance.com)
offers policies directly and through many insurance
agencies as an add-on to your existing policy.
❷ Determine the type of wedding you want.
What
do you envision as the setting for your wedding? What
size and degree of formality? Decide on a color palette.
7 SENAPA WEDDINGS / Fall 2016
❼
Schedule your engagement photo session. You’ll
need a charming photo for your announcement in the
local paper and for photo save the dates or invitations.
❽
Select your bridal party. Once you’ve decided on
the friends and family who will make up your bridal
party, find a creative way to ask for their participation.
❾
Start looking for your dress. For many a bride,
everything from the cake to the invitations is inspired by
the dress. Give yourself plenty of time to find the dress
of your dreams.
❿
Select and book an officiant for the ceremony.
If you’re planning to wed in your place of worship, ensure that the clergy person of choice is available on your
desired date and time.