Once you’ve found your special someone and you’re ready to pop the question, you’ll soon realize that there’s a lot to do! Here are some important tips for planning your proposal and your wedding ceremony.
Learn About Diamonds
Before you pop the question, you’ll need a ring. This can be a stressful purchase, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to do some research first. Don’t worry, our diamond education guide can help. From the 4 Cs of diamond quality to everything you need to know about engagement ring styles, we’ve got you covered.
Think About Your Partner
Do you have an image of a dream proposal in your head? That’s great, but is it what your partner really wants? Think about their personality and how they would likely want their engagement to turn out. Is your special someone a very public person who loves to celebrate with others? Or do you think they’d rather have a personal moment between the two of you? Think about what they’d really want and then do whatever you can to make it happen.
Take Time to Celebrate
Once you’ve popped the question and she’s said yes, you might be tempted to start wedding planning right away. While it’s important to get started early, make sure to take some time to celebrate your engagement. Wedding planning is busy and stressful, so it’s a good idea to take a pause to enjoy being engaged for a little bit. You might want to have a big engagement party with all of your friends and family, or you may choose to spend a few days alone as a couple to enjoy this time. Whatever you choose to do, make it special and memorable.
Plan a Budget
One of the first things you’ll need to do when you’re planning your wedding is to set a budget. Your budget will determine a lot about your wedding, from the guest list to the venue, so it’s important to set it early.
Obviously, your budget will depend on your financial situation, but it will also depend on who is contributing. Are you and your partner going to pay for the entire wedding yourselves or will your parents be helping? Have this discussion early and don’t assume anything until it’s confirmed.
Be Flexible
You might have an idea for a perfect wedding in your mind, but everything you want might not be possible. For example, you may not be able to fit all of your wishes into your budget, or the venue you’re in love with may not be available when you’d like to get married. It’s important to be flexible, adapt to changing situations, and not get too hung up on things that aren’t possible.
Check the Calendar
Before you set a date, check the calendar for conflicts. You likely don’t want to plan your wedding so that it falls on the same day as your sister’s graduation or your parents’ annual cruise, for example. In the same sense, you’ll also want to avoid conflicting with any other weddings or events in your social circle.
Finally, check for any cultural events, religious events, festivals, or other events that are taking place near your wedding date. Not only could these events mean some of your guests may not be able to attend, but planning your wedding for the same day as a big local festival can be a logistical nightmare when it comes to traffic, hotels, and more.
You Don’t Need Everything
There’s a good chance that you won’t be able to get (or afford) everything you want at your wedding. That’s okay! Prioritize your wishes and spend your money where it matters the most.
The same is true for wedding traditions. You don’t need to include all of them in your wedding. If there are certain traditions that do not mean anything to you, or if there are some that would be too difficult to uphold, you can skip them. Don’t feel pressure to include everything. Remember, this is your day and you can do what you’d like.
Do Research
Research is important. Read reviews for vendors, venues, and everything you’re considering having for your wedding. Ask your friends and family for advice. If something doesn’t feel right, choose another vendor or another location.
Plan for Emergencies
Emergencies happen. Things don’t always turn out the way you want them to. Keep this in mind and do what you can to make plans for the unexpected. Of course, you likely won’t be able to anticipate everything, but having some contingency plans in place can give you some peace of mind.
Enjoy Yourself
Some people get so wrapped up in making sure their wedding is perfect, that they don’t get the chance to enjoy it. Remember that this day is about celebrating your love with those who mean the most to you. Be sure to take some time to enjoy yourself and really experience the moment.
