Newly Engaged? Here’s Your Next Steps - written by Tide the Knot Wedding Planning

First of all, a huge congratulations! Getting engaged is one of life’s most exciting milestones – a moment full of love, joy, and anticipation for the journey ahead. But once the confetti settles and the “yes” has been said, it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. What do you do next? How do you even begin planning a wedding?

We’ve put together a simple guide to help newly engaged couples take those first steps confidently. Think of it as your roadmap from “just engaged” to “wedding ready.”

1. Celebrate the Moment

Before you dive into wedding plans, pause and really savour your engagement. This is such a special milestone – a moment of pure joy, love, and anticipation – and it deserves to be celebrated. Take time together to reflect on what this chapter means for you both, and share the happiness with those closest to you. After all, engagements can feel like a whirlwind, so pausing to soak it all in isn’t just romantic – it sets the tone for planning with excitement and clarity.

Share your news your way: Whether it’s a fun social media post, a cosy gathering with family, or a heartfelt note to loved ones, do it in a way that feels authentic to you.

Capture the memories: Photos, videos, keepsakes… these little reminders of your engagement will be treasures for years to come.

Enjoy life before the wedding: There’s no rush. Some of the sweetest moments happen when you take things step by step, soaking up this time just as it comes.

2. Create Your Wedding Vision

Now the fun really begins – it’s time to imagine the wedding that’s uniquely yours. This isn’t just about colour palettes or flowers; it’s about crafting a celebration that truly reflects who you are as a couple.

Identify your priorities: Think about what really matters to you. Is it a dreamy beachfront ceremony, an intimate gathering with close family, or a particular photographer whose work you love? Pinpointing your non-negotiables early will make the rest of the planning feel much smoother.

Find alignment: Take time to discuss your expectations and identify where compromises might be needed. Planning your wedding together should feel like a collaboration – both your voices deserve to be heard.

Dream boldly, plan realistically: Let your imagination run wild, but remember practicalities like guest numbers, venues, and budgets. Balancing inspiration with reality helps keep the process joyful, not stressful.

Start a mood board or notebook: Gather everything that inspires you – Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, or snapshots from weddings you adore. This will help bring clarity to your style and make communicating your vision with vendors a breeze.

3. Set Your Budget

Talking about money might feel a little awkward, but setting a clear budget from the very start is one of the smartest things you can do. It keeps expectations realistic and ensures that planning – and the day itself – stays fun, rather than stressful.

Work out your total budget: Take into account contributions from family, your own savings, and any other resources you’ll be using. Knowing your number upfront gives you a solid foundation for all your decisions.

Divide and conquer: Break your budget into key categories like venue, catering, flowers, attire, entertainment, and photography. This makes it easier to see where your money is going and helps prevent any surprises down the line.

Plan for the extras: Don’t forget those little costs that can creep up – service charges, gratuities, decor rentals – a little foresight now saves a lot of stress later.

4. Begin Your Venue Search

Your venue sets the tone for your whole wedding, so start early and trust your instincts. Consider your style and location, visit a few favourites in person, and ask the right questions – the perfect space is one where you can truly imagine celebrating with your loved ones.

5. Start Building Your Support Team

You don’t have to do it all alone. Surround yourself with trusted suppliers, family, friends, and even online communities – the right support makes planning smoother and keeps the excitement alive.

6. Think About Your Timeline

Even if your wedding is a year or more away, a rough timeline keeps planning manageable. Set your date, map out key milestones, and use a checklist or planner to stay organized and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Getting engaged is the exciting start of a shared journey, but the steps that follow don’t have to be overwhelming. Celebrate your love, create a clear vision, set a budget, and start your venue search early. With a solid timeline and the right support, you’ll enjoy the planning process as much as the big day itself – and create a celebration that truly reflects your story as a couple.

Photography Credits:

Photo 1: Trelowarren Estate by Olivia Rossi

Photo 2: Hannah Barnes Photography

 Photo 3: Etsy inspo board

Photo 4: Pencarrow Weddings

Photo 5: Lusty Glaze

Photo 6: Lauren Bramble Hair at Boconnoc Estate

Photo 7: Camel Studio by Katie Goff Photography

Photo 8: In Lover Eyes (Photographer)