The First 5 Tasks to Tackle After Getting Engaged in Washington, DC
Congratulations—you’re engaged! This is such an exciting time, and before diving headfirst into planning, I want you to take a moment to soak it all in. Being engaged is such a special season, so don’t forget to celebrate! When you’re ready to start planning, here are the first 5 tasks to tackle after getting engaged to set the foundation for a stress-free and unforgettable wedding in Washington, DC.
Photo credit: Kate Grace Photography
1. Decide on Your Wedding Season and Ideal Dates
One of the first steps in planning your wedding is thinking about when you want to get married. Do you picture a spring wedding with blooming flowers, a summer celebration under the sun, or a cozy fall ceremony? Consider the vibe you want, the weather, and any personal significance specific dates might have. While you don’t need to lock down an exact date right away, having a preferred season and a few options in mind will help guide the rest of your planning decisions.
2. Determine Your Planning Support and Hire a Planner
Before diving into the details, consider how much planning support you’ll need. Are you looking for full-service planning to guide you through every decision, or are you more hands-on and only need a day-of coordinator to manage logistics on your big day? Hiring a wedding planner early is key—they’ll help you create a roadmap for your planning journey, connect you with trusted vendors, and keep everything organized. (Need help deciding? Check out my post on Wedding Planner vs. Day-Of Coordinator to explore your options!)
3. Collaborate on Your Wedding Design
Once you’ve hired your planner, start dreaming about the look and feel of your wedding. Together, you’ll work on a design and aesthetic that reflects your personality and style. Whether it’s elegant and timeless, modern and chic, or something totally unique, having a clear vision will guide all your planning decisions—from choosing your venue to picking your floral arrangements and beyond.
4. Book Key Vendors Early
Certain vendors only take one wedding per day, so it’s important to secure them early. Your photographer, videographer, and florist are some of the most in-demand vendors, so prioritize booking them once you’ve chosen your date and vision. Your planner can recommend professionals who fit your style and budget, making this step a lot easier.
5. Take Engagement Photos and Start on Save-the-Dates
Engagement photos are such a fun way to celebrate this special time and can also double as the perfect images for your save-the-dates and wedding website. Once you’ve booked your photographer, schedule an engagement shoot. From there, you can work on designing your save-the-dates and creating a wedding website to keep your guests informed. This step gets the excitement rolling for both you and your loved ones!
Photo credit: Kate Grace Photography
Make the Most of This Special Time
Wedding planning is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and while it can feel overwhelming at times, it’s also an incredibly fun and creative process. By focusing on these first 5 tasks to tackle after getting engaged, you’ll set a solid foundation for everything else to come. Remember, this is your time to celebrate, dream big, and start building the day you’ve always imagined. And if you’re looking for expert guidance to make the process stress-free and enjoyable, I’m here to help. Let’s chat and start planning your dream DC wedding!
