navigate
Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time in your life, and as the initial thrill settles in, you may be wondering what to do next. Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered!
At BASH, we know planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, which is why we offer 828 Planning services to make the process as smooth as possible. Now that you’ve said “yes,” it’s time to dive into the planning phase with confidence.
Here’s a step-by-step engagement checklist for Carmel couples to help you get started on your journey to the perfect wedding day:
BASH’s Ultimate Engagement Checklist
1. Book a Venue
Securing a venue is one of the first major decisions to make after getting engaged. Venues can book up fast, so it’s a good idea to reserve your date early. Think about the style, size, and location that match your wedding vision, and don’t forget to consider the season. Luckily, Carmel has some stunning venues, including BASH!
Explore the best wedding venues in Carmel.
2. Set a Budget
Setting a budget is essential before diving into any further planning. Sit down with your partner and key family members (if they’re contributing) to determine how much you’re willing to spend. Once you have a budget in mind, it’ll be easier to make decisions about vendors, guest lists, and more.
3. Choose a Date
Nail down a wedding date that works for you, your partner, and your key guests. Consider the season, potential weather conditions, and how much time you’ll need to plan. Carmel’s autumns are beautiful for outdoor weddings, while winter provides a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
4. Hire a Wedding Planner (or Use 828 Planning!)
Hiring a professional planner can save you time and stress, especially if you’re balancing work and wedding planning. At BASH, we offer 828 Planning services, designed to guide you through every step of the planning process. We help with everything from venue selection to vendor coordination, ensuring your day is as stress-free as possible.
5. Make a Guest List
Sit down with your partner and draft a preliminary guest list. The number of guests you plan to invite will impact your choice of venue, catering costs, and overall budget. Be prepared to make some adjustments as you move further into planning.
6. Book a Photographer
You’ll want to capture every moment of this exciting journey — from the engagement to the wedding day itself! Photographers also book up quickly, so finding someone who matches your style is crucial. Many photographers offer engagement sessions, which can be a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera.
7. Create a Wedding Website
A wedding website is a fantastic way to keep guests informed about your big day. You can share details about the venue, date, accommodations, and even link to your gift registry. It’s an easy way to keep everyone in the loop, especially for out-of-town guests.
8. Choose Your Wedding Party
Decide who you want by your side on your big day! Whether you go for a big bridal party or keep things intimate, make sure to ask your closest friends and family well in advance so they can plan accordingly.
9. Research & Book Vendors
From florists and caterers to DJs and cake designers, Carmel has an array of talented wedding vendors. Do some research and lock in your top choices as soon as possible. Most vendors will also offer consultations, so don’t be afraid to schedule a few before making a decision.
10. Get Engagement Photos Taken
This is a fun way to celebrate your engagement and get some beautiful photos to use for save-the-dates or your wedding website. Carmel’s parks and historic areas offer gorgeous backdrops for engagement shoots, giving you a chance to capture the essence of your love story in your hometown.
11. Pick Your Wedding Attire
Whether it’s a wedding dress, suit, or both, now’s the time to start looking. Bridal salons often require several months for dress alterations, so don’t delay! Carmel has great options for bridal boutiques and menswear stores, ensuring you find something perfect for your day.
12. Send Out Save-the-Dates
Once your venue and date are locked in, it’s time to let your guests know! Save-the-dates are typically sent out 6-8 months before the wedding. It’s a great way to give your loved ones plenty of time to make travel arrangements.
13. Start Your Gift Registry
Building your registry is a fun part of wedding planning. Think about what you and your partner really need, whether it’s household items, honeymoon experiences, or contributions to a future home.
14. Plan Your Honeymoon
With the whirlwind of wedding planning, it can be easy to forget about your honeymoon! Start researching destinations and experiences that match your budget and interests. Planning early can also help you snag great deals on travel and accommodations.
15. Send Invitations
Your formal invitations should go out about 6-8 weeks before the wedding. Be sure to include RSVP cards with clear instructions on how guests can reply. If you’ve opted for digital RSVPs, make sure your wedding website is updated with all necessary details.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding?
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right checklist and resources, it becomes a joyful journey. At BASH, we offer everything you need to create your perfect day, from beautiful spaces to top-notch planning support. Ready to turn your dream wedding into reality? Contact us today to learn more about our venue and how we can help you make your big day unforgettable!
