Hey, you guys!
I hope your new year is off to an amazing start. If you, or someone you know is recently engaged, please check out this list of things to consider before you start planning your big day.
​View it below. 💍

1. ENJOY YOUR ENGAGEMENT
Congratulations, you’re engaged. Enjoy it! So many couples jump right into wedding planning after getting engaged. Don’t make this mistake. Your engagement is a big deal. Bask in this moment. Kiss each other a million times. Take tons of photos posing with your ring. Also, document all the details of your proposal, to enjoy for years to come.

2. SHARE THE GOOD NEWS
It’s time to spread the word. Be sure to personally tell those closest to you, before you post on social media or send an announcement to the paper.

3. SET THE DATE
​The question everyone will be asking (including the wedding vendors). While it doesn’t have to be set in stone just yet. Choose some perspective dates of when you’d like to tie the knot.

4. DEFINE YOUR STYLE
​Once you’ve settled on some dates, you should decide on your wedding style. Will your cultures and, or religion, play a major role? Will the affair be more formal or casual? How many guests will you invite? these are all things to consider at this stage.

5. SET YOUR BUDGET
​Before you spend a dime, set your wedding budget! Start by finding a sample budget breakdown online (wedding costs vary widely from state to state). Then, review your finances. Also. be sure to find out if your parents would like to contribute, or gift a particular item. Once you have all of the numbers in front of you,you can create a savings plan (if necessary).

6. CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING PARTY
​A decision not to be taken lightly. Each member of your wedding party has a special role to play in your big day. So, choose those who not only want the best for you, but are able to commit to their duties as well.

7. FIND YOUR PLANNING COMMUNITY
​We highly suggest hiring a professional wedding planner. If not, at least a coordinator to manage your wedding day. In addition to the professionals, join an online wedding community. Zola, is one of our favorites.There is plenty of information, and so many resources out there to help you plan the perfect wedding.

While new wedding trends have always come and gone. We saw some drastic changes happen in 2020. Here are some of our favorite trends you'll be sure to see in 2021.

1. Covid-19 Safety Precautions
From color coded safety masks, to hand sanitizing stations, Covid safety is at the forefront of wedding ceremonies. While we hate dealing with this Coronavirus as much as the next guy. We love to see couples celebrate their love while keeping everyone safe. On the bright side, now you won't have to explain why entitled aunt Karen isn't allowed to sit at the main table. Just blame it on social distancing #sixfeetplease. 

​2. Smaller Ceremonies
Micro Weddings aren't going anywhere. Vaccine, or not, many couples are still opting for a more intimate affair.  Whether hosting a small group at their residence or making reservations at their favorite restaurant, many are choosing to go small. 

3. Live Entertainment
While this isn't a new trend, there has definitely been an influx in live entertainment at weddings. Since dance floors are prohibited in many instances, couples have been hiring live bands to entertain their seated guests. And honestly, who doesn't love live music? 

4. Conscious Weddings
Another oldie, but definitely good! This trend takes place behind the scenes. Couples who are committed to social change have made it their mission to support some of society's most marginalized groups. Whether it's buying black, shopping small, or working with women. We love to see couples putting their money where their mouths are.

5. Live Streaming
With social distancing orders still in full effect. More couples have been entertaining the idea of having virtual wedding guests. Many platforms have integrated live streaming into their programs, to simplify this process. With all the chaos and confusion constantly bombarding us, we love the idea of sharing classic love stories in this modern way. 
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Will you be incorporating any of these trends in your wedding? Let us know in the comment section.