A calm, confident guide for Chicago couples beginning their wedding planning journey
Getting engaged is one of the most meaningful moments of your life, and knowing what to do after getting engaged can help you begin the planning process with clarity and confidence. Many couples search for what to do after getting engaged because the first steps can feel overwhelming. Whether you are celebrating in Chicago or planning a destination celebration, understanding what to do after getting engaged sets the tone for a joyful, organized experience. This guide walks you through what to do after getting engaged with thoughtful steps, expert insight, and local recommendations tailored to Chicago couples.
Capture the Memory
A few simple steps help preserve this moment.
Take engagement photos at iconic Chicago locations like the Riverwalk, Lincoln Park, or North Avenue Beach
Have your ring sized and insured
Store your ring safely when you’re not wearing it
These details give you peace of mind as planning begins.
Celebrate the Moment Before You Start Planning
Before diving into logistics, take time to celebrate. Share the news with the people who matter most, enjoy a dinner in your favorite Chicago neighborhood, or take a quiet moment together. This pause helps you begin planning with intention rather than urgency.
Begin Your Guest Count Conversation
Your guest count shapes nearly every decision. Before you explore Chicago wedding venues, talk through:
Whether you want an intimate celebration or a larger guest list
Any cultural or family considerations
A general range that feels comfortable
This step helps you narrow down venues and budget with confidence.
Set a Realistic and Aligned Wedding Budget
Your budget is the foundation of your planning experience. Discuss:
Who is contributing
Your top priorities
A comfortable total investment
A clear wedding budget helps you make aligned decisions and avoid stress later.
Explore Your Wedding Vision and Style
Begin gathering Chicago wedding inspiration that reflects your style and the atmosphere you want to create.
Consider:
Season
Color palette
Level of formality
Chicago neighborhood or destination
Guest experience
Your vision doesn’t need to be perfect. It simply needs to feel like you.
Choose a Season and Location
Once you have your guest count, budget, and vision, you can begin narrowing down when and where you want to get married.
Think about:
Chicago weather and seasonality
Indoor versus outdoor preferences
Guest travel needs
Neighborhoods that match your aesthetic
This step brings your planning into focus.
Hire a Wedding Planner
Hiring a Chicago wedding planner early is one of the most impactful decisions you can make. A planner guides you through budget, venue selection, vendor curation, and timeline creation so you can enjoy the process without overwhelm.
For Chicago couples, a planner also helps you navigate venue availability, seasonal considerations, and trusted local vendors.
Begin Touring Venues
As you explore Chicago venues, it helps to understand how different neighborhoods, capacities, and styles shape your overall guest experience.
Pay attention to:
Layout and flow
Guest experience
What is included
What requires outside vendors
Available dates
Your venue sets the tone for your entire celebration.
Start Building Your Vendor Team
Once your venue is secured, begin booking your key vendors. Most couples start with:
Photographer
Planner
Floral designer
Entertainment
Catering (if not included)
Booking early gives you access to the best creative partners.
Create a Shared Planning System
Whether you use a planning app or a shared document, create a central place to track:
Contracts
Payments
Deadlines
Guest information
Staying organized from the beginning makes the entire process smoother.
Newly Engaged FAQ
What is the first thing to do after getting engaged
Most couples begin by taking time to celebrate before diving into logistics. Once the excitement settles, the first practical step is discussing your guest count and budget since these two decisions shape every part of the planning process.
How soon should we start planning our wedding
Most couples begin planning within the first one to three months after getting engaged. Starting early gives you access to more venue dates and allows you to make decisions without pressure.
Should we hire a wedding planner right after getting engaged
Hiring a wedding planner early gives you expert guidance from the very beginning. A Chicago wedding planner helps you define your vision, build a realistic budget, and secure venues and vendors that align with your priorities.
What should our wedding budget include
A complete wedding budget includes venue, catering, photography, planning, floral design, entertainment, attire, stationery, transportation, and any cultural or personal elements that matter to you.
How do we choose the right wedding date
Your date often depends on season, venue availability, guest travel needs, and the overall atmosphere you want to create. Many couples choose a season first, then select a date based on venue options.
