New Year, New Bride: Tips for the Newly Engaged

A new year always feels special, but when you’re newly engaged, it feels extra exciting. Whether the proposal was a total surprise or something you’ve been dreaming about for years, this season marks the start of a brand new chapter. If you’re wondering what you’re “supposed” to do next, take a deep breath. This post is here to walk you through those first steps, no pressure!

Step One: Soak It All In & Share the Big News

Before you start Googling timelines and vendors, pause and enjoy this moment. Celebrate with your people, relive the proposal story (again and again), and let yourselves be engaged for a bit. There’s plenty of time to plan, this part only happens once.

When and how you announce your engagement is completely up to you. Maybe you call your closest family first, maybe you post on Instagram right away, or maybe you do a little of both. There’s no rulebook here. Engagement photos are always fun, but definitely not required.

Step Two: Start Dreaming, Not Booking

Early planning is all about dreaming. Think big picture, what kind of wedding feels like you? Formal or laid-back, big celebration or intimate gathering, summer or winter? Start saving ideas, pinning photos, and gathering inspiration without feeling like you need to make decisions yet.

Step Three: Set a Realistic Budget and Timeline

Budget conversations aren’t the most glamorous part of planning, but having them early makes everything else easier. Talk about priorities, who may be contributing, and what really matters to you. Your wedding dress is often a big moment (and a meaningful investment) so it’s worth factoring that in from the start.

Some couples love a long engagement, others want to jump right in, and both are perfect. Your timeline will affect things like venue availability and dress ordering, so it’s helpful to have a general plan. Most brides are surprised by how early they should start thinking about their dress, but most special order dresses take about six to eight months to come in and alterations takes around two to three months after that.

Step Four: Book the Big Three

Once you have a date or time frame, it’s time to lock in your major vendors: your venue, photographer, and bridal boutique. These tend to book up first because they play such a big role in your overall experience.

Dress shopping should feel exciting, not stressful. Come with a general idea, bring a small group you trust, and keep an open mind. A bridal boutique experience is all about guidance, honesty, and support as you find the dress that truly feels like you.

Wedding planning can feel like a lot, especially at the beginning. Try to stay present, take things one step at a time, and remember, there’s no “right” way to do this. This season is part of the joy, too.

If you’re newly engaged, know this: you’re not behind, and you’re doing just fine. When you’re ready, we’d love to welcome you to Lily's Bridal to help you find your dress. Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and saying yes to what comes next.

Written by Melissa Mann, Marketing Manager Lily's Bridal