CONGRATULATIONS! It is time to begin your engagement planning journey! Enjoy these easy at-a-glance tips to help you along the way.

A – Appreciate the Moments

Take a little time with your partner to soak up the engagement energy! No pressure, no stress… just love your rock and snuggle hugs.

B – Budget

Before spending a penny, lock in a realistic budget and stick to it. Identify what you can’t live without, what’s important to you. Remember, it’s YOUR day.

C – Choose Your Venue Early

Venues book fast—secure your date and setting as your first major step.

D – Design Your Vision Board

Collect inspiration photos for décor, colors, florals, and vibes so all vendors stay aligned.

E – Establish a Timeline

Create a planning schedule (bookings, payments, fittings, invites) to keep things on track.

F – Finalize the Guest List

Decide who’s essential before sending save-the-dates and keep in mind your venues guest capacity.

G – Get Organize

Use a binder or digital folder system for contracts, quotes, and vendor communication.

H – Hire a Photographer You Love

Choose someone whose style matches your dream look because photos last forever. Be sure to check reviews and know the timeframe in which to expect your photo gallery.

I – Invitations Matter

Order early, proof carefully, and always get a few extras.

J – Just Breathe Moments

Schedule tiny breaks during the planning process… it’s important to enjoy your moments.

K – Know Your Must-Haves

Identify the top 3 things that matter most to you (music, food, photos, etc.). Try not to allow yourself to veer away from these… it will help you stay on track.

L – Lighting Sets the Mood

Ask your venue about uplighting, candles, natural light, and sunset times for photos.

M – Meal Plan

Consider your guest with allergies, vegetarian options, and timeline for dinner service.

N – Negotiate Contracts

Always ask vendors what packages include, the payment schedule, and if there may be some small tweaks.

O – Outsource Stress

Hire a planner or day-of coordinator to avoid last-minute chaos. You should also select a point-person, someone who is NOT in your bridal party to work with the planner or day-of.

P – Prioritize Comfort

Choose shoes, seating, and timelines that keep you comfortable throughout your day.

Q – Questions for Vendors

Make a master list of questions ahead of time for each vendor meeting so nothing gets missed.

R – Rehearse the Ceremony

Walk through the lineup, timing, music cues, and vows ahead of time.

S – Secure Your Marriage License

Know what the county requirements are, their waiting periods and expiration windows.

T – Timelines

These are vital for your coordinator, DJ and photographer. Detail your day out on an hourly schedule.

U – Unplugged or Not?

Decide early whether you want an unplugged ceremony and communicate it clearly in your wedding portal.

V – Vendor Teamwork

Introduce all vendors and share the timeline so everyone works smoothly together.

W – Weather Backup Plan

Even indoor weddings need contingency plans for photos, travel, and outdoor moments. If you’re getting married outside you may consider sunglasses, decorative fun fans or shawls.

X – X-Factor Touch

Add one personal “wow” element — signature drink, unique guest favors, or special entrance/exit.

Y – Your Dress Fittings

Schedule fittings early and always bring shoes, undergarments, and accessories to each one.

Z – Zero Regrets Rule

On the day of, let go of perfection and enjoy every minute — it goes by fast.