If you and your boyfriend have had a conversation or two about the future, then you might both be ready to take your relationship all the way. Talking about growing old together, or the 2.4 kids and a dog you’ve always dreamed of is a sure sign you think he’s the one. You might even have had ‘the chat’ about where your relationship is headed. So what happens next?
It’s traditional for the man to propose to the woman, but there is nothing stopping you proposing to him. Sometimes, couples go shopping for the ring together before the official proposal. Your husband-to-be might choose to seek ‘permission’ from your father. This is usually done before dropping to one knee. This is quite an old-fashioned approach to engagement. Some women can find it inappropriate. However, others might see it as romantic and symbolic of a serious relationship and intention.
After the proposal, it is common to announce the engagement formally. This can be done through your local newspaper, or on your social media pages. You might have a party to let everyone know the good news. The next thing to do is book the wedding itself.
Choosing a venue could take a long time if you are after something very particular. Many popular wedding venues are booked up to a year in advance. Most people decide on the date for their wedding based on the venue’s availability. For a smaller wedding in your local church or at home, you may be able to marry much more quickly.
After the invites have been sent out, it’s official. As the date draws closer, you have a lot to arrange. One of the best things about a wedding is picking the dress. If you are superstitious, you will attend your appointment at the Bridal shop without your fiance. Instead, your mother, sister, or bridesmaid will come with you to help you choose. The dress won’t be seen by your other half until the wedding ceremony.
The dress is only one of the many things you need to organise ahead of the big day. Menus, wedding cakes, decorations, cars, and bridesmaid dresses are all on the list. If you’re not using a wedding planner, you might want to download a planning template to help you keep track of the tasks.
There can often be a rehearsal dinner a day or two before the wedding. This might be the first time the parents meet. You will have a run through of the ceremony and order of events at the reception. Then you can all enjoy a meal together to get to know each other. If it is the night before the wedding, the bride and groom usually retire to different houses, so they don’t see each other again until the ceremony.
Announcing your engagement and preparing your wedding can be a wonderful experience. It can also be a worrying and stressful time! Keeping the peace between your families can also be a challenge at times. Just remember, it’s your wedding and your marriage. Have a beautiful wedding day.
