You’ve just said “yes!”—congratulations! That moment, whether under a sunset on a windswept hill or in your favourite cafe, will live in your heart forever. But once the initial excitement settles, you’re left wondering: “What is the next step after getting engaged?”
As a wedding photographer based in Glasgow who has captured love stories across Scotland, I’ve seen couples at every stage of this journey. Let me guide you through what to do after getting engaged, from practical tips to heartfelt moments so that you can enjoy this special chapter to its fullest.
What Is the First Thing You Do When You Get Engaged?
Celebrate!
Pause for a moment. Take it all in.
The first thing to do after getting engaged is to embrace the joy of this life-changing milestone. Whether you’re twirling around the living room together or sharing the news over a glass of bubbly with family, allow yourself to feel the magic of this time. Write down your proposal story while the memory is fresh and share the news with loved ones.
This is also the time to avoid wedding overwhelm. You’ve just promised forever—don’t let planning pressures overshadow the moment.
Insure Your Engagement Ring
This may not feel romantic, but it’s crucial.
After you’ve admired your sparkling ring for the hundredth time, make sure it’s insured. It might not feel romantic, but insuring your engagement ring is the most responsible first step. Accidents happen, and your ring deserves protection. Contact your home or renter’s insurance to check if it can be added to your policy. Alternatively, seek out a specialist jewellery insurer. Ensure the coverage matches the ring’s value, and consider having it appraised if it’s a custom design or holds exceptional value.
Discuss What’s Next and Plan Together
The next step after getting engaged is having meaningful conversations about what this season will look like for you as a couple. Here’s where you start:
What Kind of Wedding Do You Want?
Will you say “I do” in a rustic barn in the Highlands, elope to the Isle of Skye, or host an intimate ceremony in your Glasgow neighbourhood? Talk about your vision as a couple—traditional or modern, big or small, local or destination.
When Do You Want to Get Married?
Every love story has its season—what will yours be?
Before diving into venues and dates, take a moment to reflect on the aesthetic and atmosphere you envision for your wedding.
Discuss the season and possible dates. Spring weddings in Scotland are dreamy, with soft blossoms and fresh greenery. Summer offers long daylight hours, while autumn’s golden landscapes are a photographer’s dream. Winter weddings, with their cosy venues and romantic candlelight, are equally magical.
Picking a season is less about locking in a specific date and more about setting the tone for your celebration. Once you’ve narrowed it down, you’ll have a clearer direction for the next steps—venues, photography, and attire all hinge on this foundational decision.
Discuss a Wedding Date
“When’s the big day?” You’ll hear this question approximately 746 times in the coming weeks.
While it’s tempting to settle on a date immediately, take your time. Flexibility can be your ally in securing the venue or vendors of your dreams. Choose a month or a general time of year that feels meaningful to you both. Perhaps the anniversary of your first date or a season you both adore.
Once you have a general timeframe, consider popular wedding dates in your area. Spring and autumn, for instance, are high-demand seasons in many regions, meaning venues may book up quickly. Be prepared with a few alternative dates before reaching out to venues.
What’s Your Wedding Budget?
Ah, the unglamorous but crucial conversation.
Budgeting may not feel fun, but it’s the backbone of your wedding planning. Sit down with your partner (and possibly any contributing family members) to have an open and honest conversation about finances. Establish a range you’re comfortable with, keeping in mind that weddings often go over budget.
Determine who is contributing and what priorities matter most—do you want a grand celebration with hundreds of guests or a more intimate gathering followed by a luxurious honeymoon? Whether your budget is modest or extravagant, thoughtful planning will ensure your day is meaningful and reflective of your love.
Things to Do After Engagement and Before Marriage
This period is about more than just ticking off a wedding checklist. It’s about celebrating your relationship, building a strong foundation for marriage, and of course, preparing for your big day. Here are the key things to do after getting engaged:
Decide Your Wedding Location
Where will your love story unfold?
Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn wedding, a sun-soaked beach elopement, or a grand ballroom soirée, your location sets the stage for everything else.
Scotland is home to some of the world’s most stunning venues, from historic castles to lochside retreats. Whether you’re dreaming of Edinburgh’s timeless elegance or the rugged beauty of Glencoe, start by narrowing down the area. Once you’ve chosen your location, begin researching venues that align with your style and guest list size. Many venues provide detailed galleries, pricing, and virtual tours. Reach out to coordinators with questions and schedule in-person visits if possible. And remember, a venue isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the heartbeat of your celebration.
Go Dress Shopping
Ah, the part most brides dream about: the dress.
Once you’ve secured a venue and have a general idea of your wedding theme, start shopping for your wedding dress. Try on a variety of styles—you might be surprised by what you love! Remember to bring along a trusted friend or family member for support. Pinterest boards can be a fantastic tool, but there’s no substitute for the thrill of trying on dresses
Book Your Wedding Photographer
Speaking from experience as a wedding photographer based in Glasgow and capturing love stories across Scotland, I can’t stress enough how important it is to secure your photographer early—ideally months in advance. Wedding photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about preserving the emotion, the laughter, the tears, and the little moments you might not even notice on the day.
I believe your wedding photos should feel like you. My approach is to blend natural, documentary-style shots with a touch of artistry, ensuring your photos are timeless yet authentic. Whether it’s the dramatic backdrop of Glencoe, the cobbled streets of Edinburgh, or a quiet lochside elopement, I work to bring out the magic of your day, tailored to your love story.
Plan Your Engagement Photos
Engagement sessions are a wonderful way to celebrate this exciting chapter. Whether wandering Glasgow’s cobbled streets or catching a sunset at Loch Lomond, they capture your love in a relaxed and authentic way.
They’re also a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. Plus, it’s a chance to get to know your wedding photographer and ease into being photographed together, which can make all the difference when the big day arrives. If you’re considering engagement photos, I’d love to be part of that chapter too.
Build Your Wedding Vendor Team
After your photographer, focus on other key vendors such as florists, caterers, and entertainment. Prioritise those who align with your vision and values. Many vendors in Scotland are experts at blending tradition with modern touches, so don’t hesitate to ask about creative ideas!
Capture the Joy…
Your engagement is a fleeting but magical season, a time to dream big, savour the excitement, and prepare for one of the most important days of your life. As a wedding photographer in Glasgow, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless love stories unfold across Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.
So, what is the next step after getting engaged? Celebrate, dream, and start planning with intention. Whether you’re envisioning a castle wedding in the Highlands or an intimate elopement by the sea, your love story deserves to be told. Let this chapter be as extraordinary as the ones to come.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can capture your unique journey, I’d love to be part of your story. Let’s create something beautiful together. Reach out to me today!
