February 16, 2021
This Is The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For: YOU’RE ENGAGED!
It feels surreal! And like it or not, the weeks following the proposal will feel like a total whirlwind!
Don’t worry, we know you’re telling yourself, “Wow. There’s so much to do! Where do I even begin?” That’s totally normal.
Our Event Producer, Genevieve Medina for Bill Hansen Catering and Event Production, knows this feeling is all too common for newly engaged couples. Well, she’s excited to share she’s officially survived the wedding planning process herself and wants you to check out her tips on how to get started:
1. Sit Back, Relax And Enjoy This Moment
Soak it all in because before you know it, the planning-whirlwind begins. Hang on to that adrenaline rush, that electricity in the air, that “OH MY GOODNESS” feeling after hearing those four words. Celebrate this exciting time with family and friends, tell everyone about your proposal story (you’ll be repeating this part a lot), and get those engagement photos done. Take this time to just be happy together.
2. Get Inspired
This is the fun part! Let social media do the work for you. Create a Pinterest account, research wedding blogs, see what your local vendors are up to on Instagram. Also, don’t be shy and reach out to that friend who just got married with any questions you may have.
3. Talk to Your Fiancé
When you think you’re done savoring the moment, make sure you and your partner are on the same page. Begin thinking of your wedding timeline and decide when you’d like to get married. Even if you do not have an exact date, it’s wise to at least choose a month you both prefer to work around. Decide what your budget is. (Heads up: the average Miami wedding cost is $25,000-$30,000) Determine what is important to each of you when that big day comes. For example, I really wanted a photo booth and a dessert table and my husband really wanted an amazing DJ and spacious dance floor. Decisions, decisions!
4. Research Wedding Venues
Don’t overwhelm yourself and visit 10 venues! Do your research and see which ones fit your style, theme and budget. Next, make appointments to see them in person and get more information. Start with 3 and then go from there. Keep in mind venues sometimes get booked 1-2 years in advance so your preferred date may not be available. Decide if this is a deal breaker now before even looking at places. Keep in mind, choosing a weekday for your big day improves your chances of getting that dream venue!
Our venue resource www.billhansenmiamivenues.com is a great tool for couples on the hunt for South Florida wedding venues.
5. Pick a Caterer
Definitely look up reviews online and check out their Instagram. Make sure you have a budget in mind and then reach out to 1-3 caterers. Review their packages and see what they have to offer. Remember, all the packages may look the same but guaranteed quality and extras differ. Some caterers may even offer their tasting with a fee. Tackle this major to-do as soon as you can because, like venues, the best caterers are often booked well in advance!
6. Take a Breather
Wedding planning can be very stressful. So take some time for just the two of you. Have a date night, plan a stay-cation, or head to the beach to decompress and remember why you’re getting married in the first place. And as much of a whirlwind as it may seem, never forget that when you’re working with experienced event professionals, everything will come together flawlessly!