Congratulations on your engagement! You’ve said “yes,” put the ring on your finger, and now you’re entering one of the most exciting chapters of your life. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, and one thing I always tell my couples is that the engagement period is just as magical as the wedding day itself. It’s full of anticipation, excitement, and, of course, beautiful moments that you’ll want to cherish forever.
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But once the initial excitement settles, the big question is: What do you do next? There are so many things to think about as you prepare for your wedding, but there are also small, meaningful steps that can help you enjoy the moment and set the tone for your upcoming wedding journey.
So from my perspective as a wedding photographer, here are the top 5 things you should do after getting engaged to make sure this time is unforgettable—and to help you capture every precious moment along the way.
1. Share the News with Family and Friends (But First, Celebrate the Moment!)
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This is your time to bask in the joy of the moment before everything starts moving so quickly. Of course, you’ll want to share the news with your family and friends, but before you post that big engagement photo on Instagram, take a step back and enjoy your engagement just between the two of you (and maybe your closest family members).
Whether it’s an intimate celebration with your partner or a phone call to the people you love most, cherish those first moments when you get to tell your story. When you’re ready to share, post your engagement announcement with a heartfelt caption that reflects who you are as a couple.
Pro tip: Tag your partner and use a fun or meaningful hashtag (think #FederEngaged or #Engagedto(Partner’s Name) to start tracking all of your beautiful moments from now until your wedding day. This can be a special way to look back on everything as your big day approaches!
2. Update Your Social Media Profiles to Reflect Your New Status
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After you’ve shared your news, take a moment to update your social media profiles. Change your profile picture to one that captures the excitement of this new chapter—whether it’s the moment right after the proposal or a sweet selfie with your partner. It’s the little details that count.
For many couples, this is also a good time to update your Instagram bio or Snap Chat description to reflect your engagement. I love seeing couples embrace their new status with captions like “Engaged to my forever” or something playful that reflects their personalities.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to include links to your wedding website if you have one, or at least a link to your engagement shoot gallery. It’s a great way to keep your followers and friends updated!
3. Document Your Engagement—The Photos Matter!
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One of the most exciting things about being engaged is the chance to have beautiful photos that mark this moment in your relationship. If you’re planning an engagement session with a photographer (and I hope you do!), now’s the time to get it on the calendar! As a wedding photographer myself, I can’t stress enough how important it is to document this time in your life, as it’s so special.
You’ll cherish these images forever, whether they’re framed in your home or used for save-the-date cards, your wedding website, or even Instagram posts.
But even before the official engagement shoot, consider taking photos on the day of your proposal! The joy and emotion captured in those moments are priceless, and those raw feelings will stay with you forever.
Pro tip: When planning your engagement shoot, choose a location that’s meaningful to both of you—whether it’s where you first met, a favorite date spot, or somewhere that just feels you. Think of it as a date you would love to go on, and just add me! Your photos will be that much more special!
4. Create Your Wedding Website—Start Organizing, and hire a planner!
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Your wedding website is where all the important details come together, and it’s the perfect place to start organizing your big day. From your engagement story to your wedding date, venue, and travel info for out-of-town guests, this is the spot where you can keep everyone informed.
I always recommend couples create a wedding website early on, even before the invitations go out. It’ll save you tons of time later and allow guests to RSVP, check out your registry, and get excited about your wedding day.
Plus, a well-organized site is an excellent way to build your online presence and keep your friends and family updated. If you need help creating a wedding website, platforms like Zola, The Knot, and Wix offer easy-to-use templates that will make the process a breeze.
Pro tip: If you’re sharing budget allows, my biggest tip is HIRE A PLANNER!! I promise they will be worth every penny you spend. One of my favorite teams is Jenna Culley Events. The day goes smoother, you have to think about less and they are perfect for gathering all the details to make your day perfect for you!
5. Set Up Your Wedding Registry
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Once you’ve shared the news and started planning, don’t forget to set up your wedding registry. This is one of the first practical steps in the wedding planning process, and it’s a great way to get organized early on.
Many couples opt for online registries through sites like Amazon, Target, or Crate & Barrel. These registries allow you to curate everything you need (or want!) for your new life together. Plus, it makes gift-giving easy for your guests. Make sure to add a variety of price points, and don’t forget to share the link with your friends and family via your wedding website or social media.
Pro tip: Keep in mind that many guests will appreciate knowing your style, preferences, and what you need most, so be sure to personalize your registry with thoughtful descriptions.
Final Thoughts
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This is just the beginning of your beautiful engagement journey! While there are so many things to think about in the months leading up to your wedding day, I hope this list has given you some helpful pointers on how to make the most of this exciting time. As a photographer, I believe in the power of preserving memories—so make sure to capture every moment, from the proposal to the last dance at your wedding.
If you’re looking for a photographer to help tell your love story through stunning images, I’d love to chat. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, I’m here to capture every special moment.
Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and beautiful memories!
Warmly,
Karen
P.S. If you’re planning your engagement session, I’d love to hear your vision! Reach out to me anytime, and let’s make some magic happen!