Spotlight: Engagement Season Tips
What to Do First (and What Can Wait)
December 24, 2025
Engagement season is filled with joy, excitement, and often a quiet sense of pressure. Between well-meaning advice, social media timelines, and the feeling that decisions need to be made quickly, many couples feel rushed before they even begin. According to industry experts, the most important early step is not booking anything at all. It is slowing down.
First Things First: Pause and Soak It In
Before any planning begins, experts agree that couples should take time to truly experience the moment.
“First things first take a deep breath and soak it all in. You’re engaged, and this moment deserves to be celebrated before diving into any planning. It’s a one in a lifetime moment worth savoring,” says Lorah Palmer, Director of Hospitality and Senior Event Specialist at 7 Vines Vineyard. This pause allows couples to have the conversations that will shape every decision that follows.
“Start by talking about what matters to both of you. What kind of experience do you want. What feels most important. When that’s clear, planning gets a lot simpler,” shares Natalia Brummond of Belle Âme.
Taking time to celebrate with loved ones is also part of slowing down. “Once the excitement of your engagement settles in, the best first step is to pause and focus on what matters most. Take time to celebrate with close family and friends and truly savor this special moment,” says Melody Hall of Events by Melody.
Palmer echoes the importance of alignment before action. “Begin by discussing your shared vision, priorities, and budget together before contacting venues or vendors. A common mistake couples make is rushing into decisions without aligning on what matters most. Slowing down to plan intentionally keeps the process joyful, meaningful, and far less stressful.”
The Smartest First Planning Steps
Once couples feel aligned, experts recommend focusing on a few foundational decisions that guide everything else. “Planning your wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by identifying the top three elements that matter most like the venue, food, and entertainment and let those guide your budget,” says Rebekah Bjelland of Mintahoe Catering and Events. “Build a trusted team of vendors, stay organized but flexible, and protect your time by considering a planner if you’re balancing work and life.”
Understanding who will be involved in planning and contributing financially is also key. “Start by sitting down together to discuss who will be involved in planning and contributing financially. Once you have a clear understanding of your planning team and budget, you’ll be in a great position to begin venue tours and start narrowing down potential dates,” explains Lauren Wolden, Event Sales Manager at .