You’re Engaged! Here’s What to Do Next—Your Intro Into Weddings & Elopements
WEDDING PLANNING // ELOPEMENT GUIDE // ADVENTURE WEDDING
Congratulations! You’re engaged—what an exciting moment! Whether your proposal was a total surprise or something you and your partner planned together, this season is one to savor. You’ve said “yes,” popped the champagne, and maybe even snapped a few celebratory photos. But now you might be asking yourself, “What’s next?”
Don’t worry—this guide is here to help you navigate those first steps and figure out precisely what you want for your wedding or elopement. Whether you envision a grand celebration surrounded by loved ones or an intimate, adventure-filled day for just the two of you, your wedding should reflect you, your love, and your unique story.
Step 1: Celebrate and Dream Together
Before diving into logistics, take time to celebrate this milestone. This is your chance to connect with your partner, dream big, and truly envision your day.
Dream Big
Sit down with your partner and discuss what matters most to you. Do you picture a classic, big celebration with all your loved ones? Or does an intimate, adventure-filled elopement sound like your dream day? Let yourselves imagine every possibility—from a grand ballroom to a serene mountainside. Think about what makes you both happiest, and let those ideas guide your vision.
Reflect on Your Vision
Think about what feels authentic to your relationship. Are you drawn to venues with elegant chandeliers, or do you imagine exchanging vows on a mountaintop at sunrise? Reflect on the moments and places that make your relationship unique. This is the time to focus on what YOU want—not what others might expect.
Ask yourselves these questions:
- What kind of environment feels most meaningful to us?
- Do we prefer a bustling celebration or a quiet, intimate moment?
- Are there traditions we’d like to include or reimagine?
This dreaming phase is about creating a foundation for your wedding or elopement. It’s a chance to connect, get inspired, and start shaping your day around your shared values and dreams. Picture your perfect day. Are you walking down the aisle in a grand ballroom filled with your closest friends and family? Or are you exchanging vows on a mountaintop, with nothing but the wind and the trees as your witnesses?
Take turns sharing your visions with each other. Don’t worry about logistics or budget—this is the time to dream without limits.
Step 2: Decide Between a Traditional Wedding or an Elopement or Something In-Between
This is one of the first big decisions you’ll make together. Choosing between a traditional wedding and an elopement will set the tone for everything else, so take your time and consider what resonates most with you as a couple. Once you’ve dreamed big, it’s time to narrow down your vision. One of the first major decisions is choosing between a traditional wedding or an elopement. Each option has its own magic—let’s explore the possibilities.
The Traditional Wedding
A traditional wedding offers the chance to celebrate your love with all your friends and family. From walking down the aisle to dancing the night away, there are many beautiful moments to look forward to.
Pros:
- Celebrate with loved ones
- Incorporate family traditions
- Enjoy a full day of events filled with meaningful rituals
Perfect For: Couples who love hosting, value tradition, and want to create memories surrounded by family and friends. A traditional wedding might be ideal if you’ve always dreamed of a packed dance floor, heartfelt toasts, and a grand celebration.
Want to dive deeper into planning a more traditional wedding? Check out my extensive wedding planning blog for tips, timelines, and inspiration to bring your vision to life!
The Elopement
An elopement focuses on intimacy, adventure, and connection. Whether it’s exchanging vows in a national park, on a quiet beach, or in your favorite city, elopements are about creating a day that’s uniquely yours.
Pros:
- Less stress and fewer logistics
- Freedom to choose a meaningful location
- An intentional and deeply personal experience
Perfect For: Couples who want an intimate, intentional day without the pressure of a big event. If you’re drawn to sharing private vows in a stunning location or crafting a day entirely your own, an elopement could be your dream.
Ready to dive into the world of elopements? Visit my elopement planning blog for step-by-step guidance and inspiration to craft an unforgettable day!
The Best of Both Worlds: An Intimate Wedding with a Celebration Later
If neither a traditional wedding nor a full elopement feels quite right, consider an option that blends the best of both worlds. This could mean hosting an intimate ceremony with close family in a meaningful location and later planning a larger celebration with friends and extended family.
Pros:
- Balance intimacy with a celebration
- Flexibility to choose a dream location for your vows
- Opportunity to celebrate twice in unique ways
Perfect For: Couples who want a deeply personal ceremony and value celebrating with a wider circle of loved ones. Whether saying “I do” in a breathtaking spot and hosting a party back home or combining elements of both, this option allows you to create a truly unique experience.
Your Day, Your Way
No matter which path feels right for you, remember that your day is about celebrating your love in an authentic and meaningful way. This is your chance to create something truly special—whether that means a classic wedding with all your favorite people or an adventurous elopement that reflects your unique connection.
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve celebrated and started dreaming, it’s time to dive deeper into your chosen path. If a traditional wedding sounds like your dream day, check out Your Unlimited Wedding Planning Guide: For Local and Destination Weddings for timelines, checklists, and tips to make the process smooth and fun.
If you’re considering an elopement, my blog Decided to Elope: Now What? An In-Depth Guide to Planning Your Perfect Elopement will help you choose a location, plan the details, and create an unforgettable experience!
Regardless of your path, remember: This is your love story, and your day should reflect who you are as a couple. You’ve got this, and I’m here to help every step of the way!
Are you ready to plan your elopement? Are you at the wedding photography booking stage? Either way, let’s create something unforgettable together.
