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If you’re one of the lucky ones who said “yes” to the big question this holiday season, congratulations! Now that you’ve got that ring on your finger, it’s time for the real fun to begin. To help you navigate the sometimes overwhelming wedding-planning process, we’ve put together a guide so that you know what to do after getting engaged.

Take Care of the Ring

You’ll be showing that bling off to all your family and friends, so make sure it fits correctly. If it’s too small or too big, be sure to have it sized as soon as possible. This process shouldn’t take more than a couple of days (at most), and should be done at the jeweler where the ring was purchased. If that’s not possible, find a reputable jeweler that you trust.

That sparkler on your finger is probably worth more than any other piece of your wardrobe, so make sure to have it insured, just in case it is damaged, stolen, or lost. Call your insurance company and add the ring to your renter’s or homeowner’s policy.

Pick a Date

After your loved ones are finished ogling over your ring, they next thing they’ll ask is “when is the wedding?” Don’t feel pressured or rushed to choose an exact date, but instead try to decide a time of year you’re shooting for. Summer 2016, or spring 2017? This will appease curious friends and family who ask, gives you and your fiancé some direction as you begin planning, and allows you to take some time in choosing the right date.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider getting married on a Friday or other weekday to help reduce costs along the way. Once you choose the date, it’s time to start thinking about a venue.

Create a Budget

There are plenty of tools online to help you through the wedding budgeting process (check out this handy calculator by The Knot). Start by deciding on a total amount you are able and willing to spend, then break down how much you’ll spend on the dress, catering, flowers, venue, and other vendors from there. If you haven’t already, start a wedding and honeymoon savings account.

Pick a Venue

Once you’ve landed on a special date, it’s time to book that dream venue. We recommend making this a top priority, as venues tend to book up quickly, especially in the summer months. Brides in Pittsburgh should check out our list of ten unique wedding venues in the area.

Think About Your Wedding Party and Guest List

You might already know exactly who will be standing by your side on your big day, or you could be torn between small wedding party and including all the right people. Think about whether or not it is important to you to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, and talk with your fiancé about their vision for the wedding, and who they would like to have standing up next to them.

If you’re having a hard time excluding people, but need to narrow down the wedding party, consider assigning duties like ushers and candle lighters to those important people who don’t make the cut. Once you’ve narrowed it down, make sure to ask each individual if they would do you the honor of supporting you by standing by your side. There’s no doubt, they’ll be thrilled!

Be sure to get a rough estimate on your total guest list – this number will have a huge impact on your budget and venue options.

Begin to Think About Vendors

Between 12 months and 6 months before the big day, you’ll want to choose your vendors. For the wedding, think about flowers, lighting, photographer, and videographer.

For the reception, decide what, if any, rentals you’ll need. If you will need a tent, place settings, tableware, tables, chairs, or dance floor, check out PartySavvy’s wide selection of hassle-free, elegant wedding solutions. Think about what you’ll serve for dessert – a traditional cake, a cookie table, or another sweet treat? Will you have a band or a DJ?

Relax, and Have Some Fun

Don’t let the stress of planning overwhelm you. By starting your planning well in advance, you’ll give yourself time to have fun with the process. Daydream about your ideal wedding – and get creative about ways you can make it a reality!


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