What to do know you’re engaged

What to do now you’re engaged

First of all, congratulations. Getting engaged is such a happy time for you and the people closest to you. It is also the start of your journey into the world of wedding planning.

If it is your first time being engaged, the excitement can quickly turn into a sense of “where do we even start”. Here are some simple steps to help you work out what to do now you are engaged.

You said ‘yes’

Take a moment to enjoy it. You do not have to make any big decisions straight away. Soak up the feeling, look at your ring as often as you like and enjoy telling your proposal story.

Tell close friends and family first

Before you share the news on social media, make sure the key people hear it from you. Think about relatives or close friends whose feelings might be hurt if they found out through a post rather than a call or message.

Insure your ring and check the size

It is not the most romantic job on the list, but it is important. Add your engagement ring to your home insurance or take out separate cover, and make sure it fits comfortably. You do not want to risk losing something so precious.

Enjoy being engaged

There is no rule that says you have to dive into full wedding planning the moment you say yes. If you want to take a little time just to be engaged, you can. Talk about ideas, but do not feel pressured to have everything decided straight away.

Pop the prosecco

Gather your nearest and dearest for a celebration. It could be a full engagement party or a simple get together at home or your favourite place. The main thing is being with the people who are happiest for you both.

Think about a date

You do not have to choose a specific date yet, but it helps to have a rough idea. Talk about the time of year you both prefer, whether you like the idea of a summer or winter wedding and how that fits around work, school holidays and other commitments.

Discuss a budget

Money is not always an easy topic, but it is essential if you want planning to feel calm and clear. An agreed budget will guide most of your big decisions, from your venue and guest list to outfits and food. Knowing your ballpark before you fall in love with something out of reach will save a lot of stress later.

Consider possible venues

Once you have an idea of season and budget, you can start shortlisting venues. Think about whether you prefer a country house, a city hotel, a barn or somewhere by the coast. If you already know you like the sound of an exclusive use country house, you might want to add West Tower to your list and keep an eye on our wedding events and open evenings for viewing dates.

Gather inspiration

This is the fun part. Save images on Instagram, explore Pinterest boards and browse magazines or blogs. You will quickly spot patterns in what you like, whether that is classic, rustic, modern or something in between. Treat it as a chance to daydream and see what feels like “you” as a couple.

Relax and breathe

After all the excitement and congratulations, it is normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. Make time for just the two of you, away from planning, to enjoy this new chapter. You have already done the most important thing by choosing each other. The rest can follow at your own pace.

If you would like to start your venue search at West Tower, we would love to show you around. Take a look at our latest wedding events and open evenings or get in touch to arrange a viewing.