C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S!!! 

If you're reading this it means your amazing partner popped the question, put a ring on it and you are officially engaged wihoo how exciting! You've just finished calling your family and friends to share in the amazing news and while you still maybe fist pumping the air I know you have some work to do. Let me help you with where to get started so you can make the most out of your engagement and start off on a roll with your wedding plans. 

1. Lets Start At the very beginning (a very good place to start)

Before you set off calling venues and checking out vendors, have a sit down with your fiance and discuss your wedding vision. Whether you want to go urban chic, laid back beach, rustic farm or classic garden, it is beneficial to know where each of you are at, who knows, your partner may surprise you! 
You can find incredible (and local) wedding inspo over on the Together Journal as well as our Australian friends Hello May. You can start a mood board over on Pinterest to help with your colour palette and overall style. Once you've nailed your vision and you are on the same page you'll be surprised at how the decisions to come will be made a little easier.

2. Crunch the numbers

Setting a budget is key! To help you on your way to spreadsheet heaven I have created a simple Wedding Budget Template to keep a track of your numbers throughout the planning journey. Your budget will help you in deciding how many guests to invite, what vendors to choose and the pieces of your day that are most important to you i.e The dress, Photography, Food, Styling, Venue (maybe all of the above). The wedding industry is full of vendors and services to suit every budget, anything is possible :)

3. Write your guest list

So you've got your vision, you've set a budget and now its time to think about the fam and friends that will be a part of your day. Whether its 10 - 200 your list will help with your next step in finding your perfect venue! This is also an ideal time to think about who will make up your bride tribe/squad/maids and men. 

4. Lock in your venue & set a date

High five! You've found some venues that fit your bill, now its time to do some site visits to see which one is perfect for you. If you are in need of a little inspo check out The Wedding Map or Wed Shed! Once you have found your dream space, be sure to send your deposit so no other brides can book your date. And just like that, you've locked in your venue and set a date! Wihoo you are totally nailing this look at you go! Pour yourself a drink you've earned it! Time to start sending out those save the dates, which brings me to my next step....

5. Engagement Photos

You'll want to get these taken early on so they can feature on your beautiful save the dates or even to announce your news on social media! This can also help with finding your dream wedding photographer so really this is two steps in one (love it when that happens). Engagement photos help build your relationship with your photographer and you'll also get a taste of how they will be on your wedding day! You can find a list of Auckland's Top Wedding Photographers over at Auckland Weddings who are an incredible vendor resource FYI.

6. Choose your vendors

Time to start choosing your florist, hair, makeup, caterer, stylist, band/DJ, cake, photographer, celebrant and hire pieces! Your vendors will play a part in your day and while its important they fit your vision and your budget, having a great connection with your vendors is key! 

7. Say Yes to the dress

If you are thinking about having a dress made or its coming from overseas be weary of the estimated time of arrival! Some dresses take a few months so grab your gals, head to the shop and say yes to the dress! Same goes for bridesmaid dresses and men's suits so you'll want to catch these early to avoid disappointment or delivery woes. 

Boom! You've made it!!! You are on your way to being one organised and on to it bride! Keep up the good work, have google docs handy for wedding plan updates and enjoy your planning time. Let those who love you help you in creating your dream day <3

xx

Fay