Just Got Engaged? Here’s How to Begin Your Wedding Planning Journey

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Wedding Plans

Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting chapter marks the beginning of one of the most memorable journeys of your life. While the proposal may be behind you, the planning adventure is just beginning, and with the right steps, it can be just as joyful.

If you’re wondering where to start, don’t worry. Below is a simple, stress-free guide from our wedding experts at Anthony’s Ocean View to help you confidently begin planning your dream wedding.

Take a Moment to Celebrate

Before diving into timelines and to-do lists, take time to soak it all in. Celebrate your engagement with family and friends, share the news, and enjoy this special milestone. Wedding planning is more enjoyable when you start from a place of excitement and gratitude.

Discuss Your Vision Together

Start by having an open conversation about what you both envision for your wedding day. Consider:

• Formal or relaxed?
• Intimate gathering or grand celebration?
• Seasonal preferences
• Must-have elements (music, food, location, atmosphere)
  

Aligning on your overall vision early will make every planning decision easier moving forward.

Set a Realistic Budget

Your budget will guide many of your choices, so it’s important to establish it early. Discuss priorities, such as the venue, guest experience, cuisine, or entertainment, and allocate resources accordingly. Remember, investing in the right venue can simplify planning by offering expert coordination, beautiful spaces, and inclusive packages.

Choose Your Wedding Date (or Date Range)

Flexibility can be your best friend, especially when booking popular venues. Consider a few preferred dates or even a season. Many couples begin planning their weddings 12–24 months in advance, especially for highly sought-after locations.

Book Your Venue First

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding and often dictates your date, guest count, and overall style. Touring venues early allows you to visualize your day and ask important questions.

Located along the Connecticut shoreline, Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven, CT, offers a stunning backdrop, beautifully renovated ballrooms, and an experienced event team that helps couples feel confident every step of the way. Securing your venue early gives you a strong foundation for the rest of your planning.

Build Your Wedding Team

Once your venue is secured, you can begin booking other key vendors, such as:

• Photographer & videographer
• Entertainment
• Florist
• Bakery
• Hair & makeup
  

Many venues, including Anthony’s Ocean View, work closely with trusted local professionals and can help guide you toward the right fit.

Stay Organized (and Enjoy the Process)

Wedding planning involves many moving parts, but staying organized makes it manageable. Create a planning checklist, use a shared calendar, and don’t hesitate to lean on professionals who do this every day.

Most importantly, remember that this journey is about celebrating your love. Enjoy the process, the planning milestones, and the memories you’re creating along the way.

Start Your Wedding Planning at Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven, CT

From breathtaking surroundings to exceptional cuisine and a dedicated event team, Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven, CT, is designed to make wedding planning seamless and memorable.

If you’ve just gotten engaged and are ready to take the next step, we invite you to schedule a tour and start planning your perfect day with us. Contact us today!