So You’re Engaged! (Don’t Panic, But Also… Maybe Panic a Little?)
Bloody hell, you’re getting married! First of all, huge congratulations. Whether the proposal happened on a romantic clifftop or while you were both in your pyjamas eating a takeaway, the result is the same: you’ve got a shiny new bit of finger-bling and a sudden, overwhelming urge to start a Pinterest board titled ‘Misty Forest Vibes’.
But once the initial champagne buzz wears off and you realise you actually have to plan this thing, the panic can set in. Where do you start? How do you pick a venue that doesn’t smell like damp carpet? And why is everyone suddenly asking you about your thoughts on table runners?
Take a deep breath. We’re Lucy Can’t Dance, and we’re here to help you navigate the "I’m engaged, now what?" phase without losing your marbles (or your personality).
1. Bask in the Glow (and the Free Drinks)
Before you start stressing about logistics, take a week or two to just… be engaged. Show off the ring. Tell the story of how it happened and drink the celebratory Prosecco. You’ve just made a massive life decision; you’re allowed to enjoy the "just engaged" bubble before the spreadsheets take over.
2. The Boring Bit: The Budget
I know, I know. Talking about money is about as no fun. But before you fall in love with a 12-tier cake made of artisanal cheese, you need to know what you’re working with. Figure out your total budget and what your non negotiables are. Is it the live band? The open bar? The show-stopping, colourful wedding dress of your dreams? (Nudge, nudge).
3. Draft the "Maybe" List
You don’t need a final guest list yet, but you need a rough head count. Are we talking an intimate 20-person dinner or a 200-person festival-style rager in a field? This will dictate your venue choice. Also, this is the time to decide if "Great Aunt Mildred" really needs an invite if she hasn't spoken to you since the Queen's Jubilee.
4. Throw the Rulebook Out the Window
Traditional weddings are great for some people, but if the thought of a "white wedding" makes you break out in hives, don't do it. This is your day. If you want to get married in a neon-pink studio, have a pizza van for dinner, or wear a dip-dyed rainbow wedding dress, go for it.
The best weddings are the ones that actually feel like the couple. If you’re a "pint and a burger" couple, don't force yourselves into a "fillet mignon and harpist" situation.
5. Find "The One" (The Dress, We Mean)
Okay, we might be biased, but this is the best part. Start looking for inspiration early.
Do your research! read reviews for bridal shops to make sure you are going to a lovely place who will treat you well!
If you’re tired of seeing the same "meringue-style" white gowns in every shop window, come and see us.
At our pink studio in Essex, we don’t do "bridal costumes." We do lace, we do sequins, we do pockets (yes, pockets!), and most importantly, we do colour. Whether you want a subtle ombre or a full-on Tequila Sunrise dip-dye, your dress should be as unique as you are. Plus, our dresses are actually designed so you can eat, drink, and—most importantly—properly dance the night away.
6. Book the "Big Three"
Once you have your vibe and your budget, try to lock in your Venue, Photographer, and Dress as soon as possible. These are the things that get booked up the fastest. Everything else—the flowers, the invites, the specific shade of napkins—can wait.
Final Pro-Tip: Don't Forget to Actually Like Each Other
In the middle of arguing over whether you need a photo booth or a glitter station, remember why you’re doing this. You’re marrying your favourite person! Don’t let the planning swallow the romance.
Now, go grab a drink, put on some music, and start dreaming. And when you’re ready to find a dress that screams "YOU," book an appointment at our studio. We’ve got the sequins waiting for you.
Photography main image: Photography byvicki