So, you just got engaged—cue the champagne pop and the social media flood of “OMG!” comments. First things first: congratulations! This is one of the most exciting milestones in your life, and it’s totally normal to ride the high for a bit before diving into logistics.
But after the ring selfies and celebration dinners, many couples hit the same moment: “Now what?”
Whether you’re planning a wedding in six months or two years, the early stages can feel like information overload. Should you book a venue or hire a planner first? Do you need to know your colors already? Is it too early to shop for a dress?
This blog breaks it all down for you. Think of it as your no-fluff, just-helpful guide to what to do after getting engaged—in the right order—so you can enjoy the process instead of feeling buried by it.
Step 1: Soak in the Moment (Yes, Really)
Before you open Pinterest or create a spreadsheet, pause. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Whether it’s just the two of you or a dinner with close family and friends, take time to celebrate before shifting into planning mode.
This also gives you space to start envisioning your why behind the wedding—not just the how.
Step 2: Set a Budget (Before Anything Else)
This might not be the most romantic task, but it’s essential. Your budget is the foundation for every other decision—from your guest list size to your venue, vendors, and even the day of the week you get married.
Questions to answer:
- Will anyone be contributing financially (e.g., parents, grandparents)?
- What’s your combined total max spend?
- What are your top priorities? (Venue? Photography? Food?)
Pro tip: Use a percentage-based budget breakdown to get started (e.g., 40% venue/catering, 15% photography, etc.).
Step 3: Talk Guest List & Vibe (Yes, Before You Pick a Date)
Your ideal wedding date might shift based on your must-have guests’ availability or venue options. Start by ballparking your guest count and overall wedding vibe (e.g., garden party, black-tie, destination, etc.).
Knowing your guest count will help:
- Narrow venue options
- Estimate per-person costs
- Avoid emotional guest list drama later on
Step 4: Hire a Wedding Planner (If You’re Going To)
If you’re even considering a planner, this is the time to reach out. Full-service planners often book out a year in advance, and they can help you navigate venue selection, vendor contracts, and timeline building with way less stress.
Not in the budget for a full planner? Look into partial planning or a month-of coordinator to keep things smooth on the day-of.
Step 5: Choose Your Venue (Then Lock in Your Date)
Venues set the tone, drive your style, and dictate your vendor availability. Most book out 12–18 months ahead, especially popular spots during peak season.
Tips:
- Tour 3–5 venues max to avoid overwhelm
- Ask about what’s included (tables, chairs, catering?)
- Have a few date options ready before committing
Once your venue is booked, congrats! You now have a date—and a wedding timeline starts to take shape.
Step 6: Book Your Core Vendors
Your “core four” are the vendors who typically get booked first:
- Photographer/videographer
- Planner or coordinator (if not already done)
- Caterer (if not included with venue)
- Entertainment (DJ, band, etc.)
These pros often only take 1 event per day or weekend, so secure them early—ideally within 1–3 months of booking your venue.
Step 7: Shop for Your Wedding Look
Once you’ve got a date and a venue, you’re ready to start shopping for your wedding dress, suit, or outfit. Keep in mind:
- Wedding dresses can take 6–9 months to arrive
- Alterations add extra time (and budget)
- It helps to know your venue and season to match the style
This is also a great time to look at outfits for the wedding party and get inspiration flowing.
Step 8: Build Your Wedding Website + Registry
Once you’ve nailed down your date and venue, create your wedding website with:
- Key info (date, location, hotels)
- Your story + engagement photos
- Your registry link
Many guests will start asking “Where are you registered?” before you even send Save the Dates, so having a small curated registry up early is helpful.
Step 9: Send Save the Dates (When You’re Ready)
Traditionally, Save the Dates go out:
- 6–8 months before the wedding (for local weddings)
- 9–12 months ahead for destination weddings
Don’t worry if you’re not ready for this step yet—your timeline might differ depending on when you got engaged.
Step 10: Plan Your Engagement Photos
An engagement session is a great way to:
- Get comfortable in front of the camera
- Build a connection with your photographer
- Use the photos for Save the Dates, website, or social
Book your session 2–3 months before you need the images delivered.
Step 11: Map Out the Rest of Your Planning Timeline
Once the big decisions are locked in, it’s time to get strategic. Break down your tasks month-by-month so nothing sneaks up on you.
Use a wedding planning checklist (or hire a planner) to:
- Keep track of appointments
- Check off payments
- Plan fittings, tastings, rehearsal dinner, etc.
This also helps avoid the “last-minute scramble” that many couples fall into at the 6-week mark.
Step 12: Don’t Forget the Legal Stuff
It’s not the glamorous part—but you’ll need to:
- Check your state’s marriage license requirements
- Decide if you’ll be changing your name
- Make sure your officiant is legally certified
You can usually apply for a marriage license 30–90 days before the big day, depending on your location.
Step 13: Build in Time for Self-Care + Downtime
Wedding planning shouldn’t take over your entire life. Remember to:
- Schedule planning-free date nights
- Delegate tasks to your partner and wedding party
- Take breaks when needed
Burnout is real, and it’s okay to pause, breathe, and re-center.
Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Great
If your head is spinning after reading this—take a deep breath. You don’t have to do everything all at once. The truth is, no couple has it all figured out at the beginning. Planning a wedding is a journey, and the most important thing is that you do it in a way that feels good for you.
So yes, go ahead and celebrate. And then come back to this checklist any time you feel lost in the scroll or unsure where to go next.
Because now you know what to do first—and next—and beyond.
