The First 5 Things to Do After Getting Engaged

wrightuptheaisle
Dec 9
2 min read

A charming engagement shoot captures a man holding a bouquet behind his back, ready to surprise his partner on a rustic railway track.

Because your planning journey should start with joy—not overwhelm.

You said YES! The ring is sparkling, your heart is full, and you’re stepping into one of the most exciting chapters of your life. Once the initial magic settles (just a little), the question becomes… Now what?

Before diving into the deep end of wedding planning, here are the first five things every newly engaged couple should do to set themselves up for a smooth, intentional, and stress-free journey.

1. Take Time to Celebrate—Just the Two of You

Before you start planning, posting, or telling the world, take a quiet moment together. Enjoy the glow. Enjoy the connection. Enjoy the promise you just made.

Whether it’s a cozy dinner, a celebratory glass of champagne, or a weekend getaway, let yourselves savor the moment. Wedding planning will be there when you’re ready—I promise.

2. Announce the News in Your Own Way

Once you’ve soaked it in privately, you can share the excitement with loved ones. Some couples prefer:

Calling close family first
Hosting a small engagement get-together
Sharing a beautifully captured photo on social media

Remember: there’s no “right” way to announce your engagement. Make it personal and meaningful.

3. Talk About Your Vision—Before Talking About Vendors

Before you jump into booking venues or buying décor, have a vision conversation. Discuss what matters most to each of you:

Big or intimate celebration?
Indoor, outdoor, or destination?
Formal, casual, or somewhere in between?
What does your dream day feel like?

This early clarity will guide every decision—from budget to venue to vendor team—and helps ensure you’re creating a day that reflects your values, your style, and your partnership.

4. Create a Preliminary Budget

Budgets can feel intimidating, but they’re essential. You don’t need every detail figured out yet—just an honest, high-level number. Consider:

Will anyone be contributing financially?
What are your top three priorities? (Venue? Photography? Food?)
Are you aiming to keep things simple or go all-out?

A thoughtful budget early on prevents stress, avoids surprises, and keeps the planning process realistic and enjoyable.

5. Hire a Wedding Planner So You Can Start Right—Not Start Stressed

One of the smartest early steps is connecting with a wedding planner who can guide you through the journey from the very beginning.

A planner helps you:

Build a budget that matches your goals
Create a planning timeline
Identify the right venues and vendors
Avoid common mistakes couples make when booking too quickly
Keep the process organized, smooth, and fun

At Wright Up the Aisle, we love meeting couples as soon as they get engaged because it ensures every next step is thoughtful, intentional, and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Getting engaged is an unforgettable moment—one worth celebrating fully and starting with intention. These first five steps help you enjoy the excitement while laying the foundation for a beautifully planned wedding day.

If you’re ready to begin your planning journey with support, clarity, and a trusted guide by your side, Wright Up the Aisle Wedding Planning Services is here to help.