Congratulations on your engagement! The excitement and joy of saying “yes” is just the beginning of your wedding planning journey, and it’s a moment you’ll cherish forever. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing couples in all stages of their wedding planning, and I can tell you that the decisions you make early on can set the tone for a wedding that reflects both your unique love story and your shared vision for the future.
So, what should you focus on after getting engaged - once you’ve popped the champagne and started telling the world your big news? Here’s what I recommend as you begin your planning process:
1. Soak It In & Dream Up Your Ideal Celebration Together
After getting engaged, before you dive into the nitty-gritty details of planning, take time to really enjoy the moment as a couple. You just got engaged—this is a monumental time in your lives! It’s easy to feel the pressure to start making decisions right away, but I encourage you to slow down and reflect together on what you really want from your wedding.
Sit down, relax, and dream about what your perfect celebration looks like. Do you envision an intimate, low-key gathering, or a grand affair? Would you prefer a lakeside ceremony on the shores of Lake Michigan or an elegant ballroom wedding in Detroit? This is the time to get creative together, and you’ll be glad you took a moment to discuss your hopes and dreams. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I can tell you that the happiest couples are those who plan a celebration that truly represents their personalities and love story.
2. Consider Dates & Seasons
After getting engaged choosing the right date for your wedding is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make. In Michigan, the time of year will significantly influence the look and feel of your celebration. From the snowy winter wonderland of the Upper Peninsula to the lush, blooming springtime in Grand Rapids or the stunning fall colors in Traverse City, the state’s natural beauty changes dramatically throughout the seasons.
Once you’ve decided on your ideal season, consider the specific date that’s meaningful to you. Is there a special anniversary or holiday you’d like to celebrate? Keep in mind that certain dates—like holidays or popular summer weekends—can be more expensive and harder to book. And, as I always tell my couples, don’t forget to take into account your photographer’s availability (especially for peak seasons), as well as the schedules of your closest family and friends.
3. Consider Your Wedding Location
After getting engaged considering your location should be at the top of your list of things to plan. Michigan offers an incredible range of locations, from rustic barns to elegant urban venues, and choosing the right setting will shape the entire atmosphere of your celebration. The location you pick should not only be beautiful, but it should reflect you as a couple.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding with stunning natural backdrops, Michigan has plenty to offer. Think about the breathtaking beauty of Mackinac Island or the vineyards of Leelanau County. For those drawn to something with more modern flair, Detroit offers chic loft venues or grand historic spaces like The Detroit Institute of Arts or Saint Johns Resort. The Upper Peninsula boasts scenic views and quiet elegance, while Ann Arbor offers a mix of vibrant, eclectic venues.
When considering a venue, think about the logistics—how accessible it is for your guests, the amount of space you’ll need, and what amenities the location offers. For example, if you want a lakeside wedding but are worried about weather, many venues in Michigan offer beautiful indoor-outdoor options that can adapt to changing conditions.
4. Consider the Size of Your Wedding
After getting engaged before you start booking anything, think about the scale of your wedding. Will it be an intimate gathering with just your closest family and friends, or a large celebration with hundreds of guests? The size of your guest list will influence your choice of venue, your catering options, and even your budget.
If you're leaning toward a smaller, more intimate wedding, Michigan offers plenty of venues that cater to micro-weddings, such as boutique venues like Lilley Mansion, Glass House, or Lady Bird. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a grander affair, places like The Book Tower, or The Shinola Hotel in Detroit offer spacious rooms with plenty of character.
As you think about guest count, remember that every person you invite can impact your overall budget, so it’s important to keep your ideal size in mind throughout the process.
5. Consider a Two-Part Wedding Celebration
One trend I’m seeing more and more in Michigan is couples choosing a two-part celebration. Perhaps you want an intimate ceremony with just immediate family, followed by a larger reception for friends and extended family. Or maybe you’re considering a destination wedding somewhere like Greencrest Manor, followed by a hometown celebration when you return.
This approach can give you the best of both worlds—an intimate experience for your closest loved ones and a more expansive celebration for your extended circle. It also opens up creative possibilities for the wedding photos I take as your photographer! From a quiet ceremony in Northern Michigan, to a vibrant reception in a downtown Detroit, you can have it all.
6. Create a Budget (and Stick to It!)
Creating a budget early on is key to making sure you don’t overspend or feel overwhelmed. As you start to book venues, vendors, and other services, it’s easy for costs to creep up, so having a clear budget will help you stay on track. Don’t forget to allocate funds for things that often get overlooked, like transportation, tips for your vendors, or small details that can add up (think: decor, favors, and the wedding dress alterations).
In Michigan, wedding costs can vary significantly depending on your location, season, and the size of your event. It’s helpful to do some research on average costs in your area. If you’re looking for an affordable option, Michigan also has many hidden gems that offer excellent services without the hefty price tag, like charming farms and family-owned venues that give a personal touch.
7. Communicate with Family on What Part They Will Play
The moment you get engaged, you’ll likely be bombarded with well-meaning family members eager to help with the planning. And while it’s wonderful to have family support, it’s important to set clear boundaries early on.
Have open conversations with your parents, siblings, and close family members about what part they want to play in the process—and what they’re comfortable with. Some couples might want help with planning the rehearsal dinner, while others prefer to take the reins entirely. Clarifying roles from the beginning helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps the planning process smooth.
8. Set Boundaries & Prioritize Your Needs
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and there will likely be moments when well-meaning family or friends offer unsolicited advice. It’s essential to set boundaries and remember that this day is about celebrating you as a couple.
Think about what’s most important to both of you. Do you want a wedding that’s more traditional, or are you leaning toward something unconventional? Do you want a small guest list or a grand affair? Setting your priorities and sticking to them will help you stay focused and reduce the stress that can sometimes come with wedding planning.
Planning your wedding is a big, exciting journey, and while it may feel overwhelming at times, it’s important to keep in mind the purpose behind it: celebrating your love with the people who matter most. Whether you're envisioning a winter wedding in the snow-dusted Upper Peninsula or a lakeside celebration in Traverse City, taking the time to dream together, prioritize, and stay grounded in your vision will help make your Michigan wedding everything you’ve imagined.
As a Michigan wedding photographer, I am excited to help document your journey, and I’m here to help capture those priceless moments, from the first look to the last dance, with the natural beauty of Michigan as the perfect backdrop. Happy planning!
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