You just got engaged and are feeling overwhelmed with all the questions on where to start. In addition, you’ve probably got a lot of people whispering in your ear. Good news, we have a few tips from the pros to help you get started.

Tip One: Enjoy the Moment

First off, take a deep breath, relax and enjoy the thrill of becoming engaged! So many brides quickly get caught up in all of the details about planning weddings (Pinterest boards can be deadly!) – that they don’t take a moment to fully cherish this beautiful moment in their life. You need to take it all in, and celebrate in private with your hubby to be, as the big day will come soon enough to celebrate with all of your friends and family!  – Infinity Weddings & Events – Karina Brown

Tip Two: Spread the Word!

Family and close friends will love finding out from you in person.  How about hosting an intimate brunch to personally announce your big news to your close family?  If they are far away, a phone call is more personal than letting them find out second-hand or via email or social media like everyone else. – Birch & Bunny Wedding & Events – Laura Richert

Tip Three: Before Jumping In . . .

Determine the scope. The budget and size of guest list will start you out on the right foot.  Once you have figured out at least a range for these questions you will be better able to move forward either on your own or with the help of a professional Wedding Planner.  Your planner will help you prioritize, create a detailed timeline and budget, track expenses and recommend vendors.  These custom vendor recommendations are ones who match your style, personalities, budget, needs and experience level. – Birch & Bunny Wedding & Events – Laura Richert

Tip Four: Set a date!

Don’t wait too long as, dependent on season, a lot of vendors tend to book up quickly! If you have your heart set on a specific venue, you may have to start with checking what dates are available and go from there. Choosing a date does not need to be a big task or a difficult one – but it is super important as, with wedding planning, everything can become time sensitive. On top of setting a date, you need to narrow down your guest list. Most venues have a maximum capacity and there is nothing worse than paying a deposit on your perfect venue only to find out all of the guests you’ve invited cannot attend due to restrictions (talk about a nightmare!).  – Infinity Weddings & Events – Karina Brown

Tip Five: Saying Yes To The Dress

Find that perfect dress (or suit)! Shopping a year in advance is a great idea, as you don’t want to become stressed and crammed for time. Dresses take time to order in as they often come from out of city. On top of that, if you need any alterations to be done, you need to ensure that you have plenty of time for the dress to be fixed. – Infinity Weddings & Events – Karina Brown

Tip Six: Beware Of Social Media

We all love to post on social media and well, it is the way of the world now.   I strongly suggest holding information that you share about your wedding to a minimum though. This is where a lot of couples get confused and overwhelmed over unsolicited comments and advice. The vendors that you have hired are the experts and do this for a living so it is important to lean on them for guidance on your big day. – LP Events – Lesley Plumley

Final Tip:

Make the day about the two of you and what you want!   Stay true to your vision and you will be much happier.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Things happen and may not always go your way. It is important not to lose sight of what you are doing; marrying your true love. Hire vendors that work with you to create a dream day for you and your partner. – LP Events – Lesley Plumley