I'm engaged, now what?

CELEBRATE! If you have not celebrated the wonderful, magical moment of becoming engaged, then you should really do so now! It is very exciting to enter the next chapter in your life with someone you cherish. It's also a good idea to share the news with family and friends. Let them help celebrate with you!

Done celebrating? No? That's okay, I'll wait....

Great! Now let's move on to the few items you should start thinking about.

Before you can determine all of the little details that will come your way, ask yourself when you actually want to get married. Do you want to do it quick and now? Perhaps an elopement is in order. Maybe you want to do it within the next few months, well an all inclusive package would be great for this timeline. Or perhaps next year or even 2 years from now is more your tempo. Just know that the approximate time frame you are thinking will drive the decisions you make along the way.

The next question to consider is whether you want to hire a wedding planner to support you in the planning. Depending on the wedding planner, they can take care of the whole thing from concept through to post-wedding clean-up or they could help with partial planning or they could step in and help with day-of coordination only. There are many options available to fit your needs. I do highly recommend lining up a wedding planner to at least support you as day-of coordinator. The wedding planner will meet all the vendors, make sure the decor is correct, provide timelines for the day, and in general take all the pressure off the couple so they can enjoy the day with their friends and family.

Graylie Events offers all three options and we're here to make the process stress-free and above all, FUN! Because everyone should enjoy the party, including you!

The next thing you'll need to do is draft up an invite list. It does not have to be complete. You will need this to get an estimate of headcount. Headcount will dictate the venues you can use which is the next item on the list.

Depending on where you live and the type of venue you want, venues can book up 1-3 years out so this really is the first thing you should look into once you have an approximate headcount. When considering the venue, think about how you want the event to feel. The venue will contribute to the tone of the wedding. A small ceremony and reception along a garden has a romantic feel to it while a wedding in an old, renovated warehouse has a modern, rustic feel. Perhaps it needs to meet religious ceremonial requirements and you plan to have the reception at a different location than the ceremony.

The venue is a big decision that will drive a number of other decisions to come. A few other major things to consider when selecting a venue:

• What is their capacity?

• Do they have a caterer? Do you have to use their caterer?

• How late can music play? Is that late enough for you?

• What are the restrictions on alcohol?

• What is included with the venue? Tables? Chairs?

• Is power access readily available?

• How easy is it to park and access for your guests?

I could go on but the list would become daunting....and you'd likely stop reading. There are many things to consider when selecting a venue. Remember to read the venue contract closely and don't be afraid to ask questions!

'Til next time