Engaged, Now What? A List for Newly Engaged Couples on What to Do Next

You’re engaged!!!

First things first, congratulations! This is such a sacred and exciting chapter in your story. As someone who lives for capturing the real, unposed, raw and beautiful emotions of couples in love, I know how big this moment is.

You might be thinking, “Now what?” I’ve got you. Below is a soft and simple guide to help you ease into wedding planning with intention, creativity, heart, and most of all; planning a wedding that is for YOUR LOVE. 

Step One: Pause and Celebrate

Before you make a list or book a vendor, just be. Take it in. Hold each other. Share the news with your people. Take a weekend away or just dance around your kitchen with a glass of wine. This moment is magic, and it deserves to be felt fully. No rushing, no going to Pinterest and Instagram  and start planning right away. Take a moment to really celebrate, just you two. 

Step Two: Dream Together

Now is the time to talk with your partner about your wedding vision.

What kind of experience do you want to create for yourselves and your guests?

Do you imagine something intimate, wild and off-the-grid, or a big celebration surrounded by everyone you love? What season or month feels aligned with your love story?

What’s your ideal budget and which elements matter most to you both?

These grounding conversations are the heartbeat of the planning process. This is where you REALLY take the time to choose if you want to elope, have a micro wedding, or a big ole wedding.

Step Three: Secure Your Venue and Photographer

The venue sets the tone and the timeline for your day. Once you have your space and your date, the next step is to book your photographer! When you start searching for a wedding photographer, begin by exploring styles that truly speak to you.  Do you love candid documentary moments, fine art editorial portraits, or true-to-color timeless images? 

Browse Instagram and Pinterest using local hashtags like #LongviewTXWeddingPhotographer or #TexasElopementPhotographer, and visit photographer websites to see full galleries, not just highlights. Read reviews, ask about their approach and process, and most importantly, choose someone whose work feels like you and whose presence feels comfortable because you won’t just be booking photos, you’ll be inviting someone to witness and tell your love story.

As a documentary-style photographer, I book weddings and elopements up to 18 months in advance. If you feel connected to my work, reach out early so we can create something beautiful together.

Step Four: Start Building Your Vendor Team

Once you’ve locked in your date and venue, it’s time to begin building your team of creatives and experts.

Here are my favorite ways to find incredible vendors:

• Ask your photographer for referrals. I love connecting my couples to talented florists, planners, bar teams, DJs, and more.
• Search Instagram with local hashtags like #EastTexasWeddings or #TexasWeddingFlorist
• Check out real wedding blogs for inspiration and vendor tags
• Ask your venue for a preferred vendor list
• Choose people who get your vision and feel easy to talk to

This is about curating a team that aligns with your energy and honors your story.

Wedding Vendor Checklist

Not every wedding needs every vendor, but here’s a list to help you explore what fits your day.

Essential Vendors:

• Photographer (hey, I’m here when you’re ready)
• Venue
• Wedding Planner or Day-of Coordinator
• Florist
• Caterer
• Bartending Team
• DJ or Live Music
• Hair and Makeup Artists
• Officiant
• Baker or Dessert Artist

Optional Vendors That Elevate the Experience:

• Videographer
• Custom Bar and Grazing Table Services (like Bubble Bar & Co.)
• Photo Booth (like my sister brand, Royal Snap Photo Booth)
• Calligrapher or Stationer for invites and signage
• Rentals for tables, lounge furniture, or specialty decor
• Transportation for your guests or yourselves
• Content Creator for social media moments
• Live painter or wedding-day entertainment
• Mobile hat bar or custom accessory stations

You don’t need everything on this list. Follow your heart and create what feels right for the two of you.

Final Thoughts 

Just remember, this is YOUR love story and you get to write it how you want. There are no rules on how to get married and if there is a wedding tradition you don’t like, don’t do it! Im serious, don’t listen to anyone (even if they’re a family member) on what you should do for your wedding day. 

Your wedding day is a huge milestone in life and you and your partner deserve to do what is right for both of you. Make sure you both really sit down and create a wedding plan you both love. Life is truly short! 

If you need some advice or need vendor recommendations, please feel free to reach out and I would love to send you some. 

And if you’re looking for someone to tell your story with soul and honesty, I’d be honored to be part of your day. ❤️