Congratulations, newly engaged couples! This is an exciting time in your lives, and you have much to look forward to. Planning a wedding can be daunting, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Here, we will outline some essential things you need to know as you move from engagement to your big day.
Decide When To Announce Your Engagement
Once you’re engaged, consider coordinating with your partner on how and when to share the exciting news. Will you call close friends and family first or send an engagement announcement through social media? Some couples even have a creative reveal planned for their nearest and dearest. Whichever route you choose, be sure to call both sets of parents before telling anyone else—trust us, they’ll appreciate the heads up!
Set Expectations
Before your wedding, talk about some important topics with your partner if you haven’t already. Discuss big things like whether you want to have kids, where you see yourselves living, and details like household roles and financial goals. This can help you avoid any surprises down the road and give you a chance to work together toward a shared vision. Remember, communication is key in any successful relationship.
Discuss Finances
As exciting as this time may be, there are some important things to consider, including how you and your partner will handle finances. Before merging bank accounts or applying for a joint credit card, sit down and discuss your money values and spending habits. This can prevent financial miscommunication and disagreements in the future. Set aside time each month to review your shared budget, expenses, and saving goals for big purchases like a house—or your wedding!
Determine Where You’ll Live
Will you continue living separately until the big day, or will one of you move in with the other? Perhaps you want to start fresh and find a new place altogether. Whatever your decision may be, communicate effectively with your partner and make a plan as soon as possible. It may not be the most romantic task on your to-do list, but deciding on a living arrangement will give you peace of mind. It will also allow you to focus on other wedding details.
Talk Logistics
It’s important to discuss the practical aspects of merging your lives. It can also be helpful to have honest conversations about what each person brings to the marriage in terms of material possessions. Are there duplicate items that you can sell or donate? Are there household items that you need to replace? Talking about logistics may not be as fun as wedding dress shopping or tasting cakes. But addressing these important topics early on can set you up for lasting success as a married couple.
Plan Your Wedding
Once the ring is on your finger and the celebratory champagne has been popped, it’s time to start thinking about that special day. While the planning process can be overwhelming, starting early will make for a less stressful experience. Though planning may feel like a lot to handle, taking the right steps before diving into the details will set the foundation for a beautiful wedding celebration!
Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming task, but it’s also an exciting time in your life. By taking things one step at a time and discussing everything openly with your fiancé, you’ll be able to navigate the planning process smoothly. Enjoy your engagement!
