You're Engaged, Now What?!
Your one + only finally asked the questions you have waited on for what feels like forever!
“What do you want for dinner?!”
NOPE! That's certainly not the question you waited for. If anything, it’s one you have heard for years and never have the right answer for. Well honey, get use to it! If you are not asking it, you'll be the one asked for the rest of your life!
The important question you waited for is of course, “will you marry me?!” Most likely through tears, hugs, kisses and jumping up and down, you managed to shout, “YES! After you announce your engagement – whether “Facebook official” or not – you are ready to hit the ground running - booking that sought-after venue + photographer, right?
Believe me when I say this - pump your brakes girlfriend! Trust me, I have been in your shoes. It is one of the most exciting times of your life and it is SO easy to get caught up in the engagement bliss. Even if you’ve envisioned your wedding day since watching Jennifer Lopez in The Wedding Planner, there are two important conversations you must have.
The Dreaded “B” Word!
Wouldn’t all brides want to have an elaborate wedding gracing the cover of Martha Stewart Weddings. I’m sure of it! However, most don’t have that cash flow NOR want to spend a year’s salary (possibly more) for a wedding. You can have a beautiful wedding and not make credit card payments after you mail your wedding thank yous!
You and your other half must discuss your b-u-d-g-e-t. I spelled it so I didn’t have to "say" it. Money is a sensitive topic for many couples. It's best to learn how to talk through finances before you are married. If you have a budget talk before you start planning, you will save yourself a few discussions (ahem – arguments) closer to your wedding. Talk to your parents and future in-laws about money also.
If you already live together or have long moved out of your parent’s home, don’t assume they are paying for expenses traditionally covered by parents. Are your parents covering $5,000 and you and your other half are responsible for the rest? Are your future in-laws covering the cost of the rehearsal dinner? Budget talk before booking vendors is very important so everyone’s expectations and limitations – couple and parents – are clear upfront. No matter how much you and the parents are willing to contribute to the wedding - $10,000 or $100,000 - everyone has a limit and you need to figure it out sooner rather than later!
Your Very Own Rose Ceremony
You have the ring, you’ve figured out the finances. Now it is time for your very own rose ceremony. After you set a budget, you may not totally eliminate vendors, but you certainly have to rank them on importance for your big day!
You and your future spouse need to make a list, separately, of the 3 most and least important elements of your wedding. When reviewing each list, discuss why each element is important to the other. You are marrying one another, so there is a good chance one top pick will be the same. There will most likely be one thing on your top list the other has as a low priority.
You may want to throw a killer party – that means entertainment is key. Having a live story to share with future generations is important – so then a videographer is a must. On the other hand, you may not be a fashionista – in which case, attire isn’t top priority. Perhaps, neither of you like cake, so you'll skimp on desserts. You really love that furniture lounge set up, but know you'll have seating for everyone anyways, so you'll rent a lounge if you have room in your budget closer to your wedding.
From your florist and hair + make up artist to reception venue and coordinator and everything in between - you will hire at least 10 different vendors for your special day. Making your lists will give you another guide for spending wisely. Make sure your wedding is a reflection of thinks both of you care about! Outside of agreeing on your spend limit, this vendor rose ceremony is a lot about compromise and this is just the beginning of your life together!
Four 26 Events, LLC offers full service planning which means assistance with budget development, allocating funds, vendor recommendations, handling the logistics the day of and also making sure Luke P. doesn’t get the rose when it comes to your wedding budget! Check out services offered by Four 26 Events, LLC.
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