newly engaged..hello

regus27

To all my fellow brides, I'm newly engaged & so excited.  I've "lurked" for at least & know it's oficial.  I'm ready to go on the planning journey!

Any advice as to what to first do (after budget numbers) then what?

Soon2bMrsGski

start working on your guestlist since that will take a while and decided your BMs and groomsmen, then I would start trying to find your biggies like venue, photographer, videographer, etc. To me, Id rather get all the big stuff out of the way

congratulations!!!

pinkflirt

I would say definately your guest count, that will determine most of your budget since your reception is most of the cost.

t12ubeauty

After budget, get a good estimate on number of guests because that will narrow down your venue search. Have a few dates in mind, then get your venue, photographer and videographer...those are the first things that get booked. The more popular venues, photographers, and videographers will be booked more than a year in advance...so it's not a bad idea to plan early. Once you get those, you can figure out all the details. If you are thinking about a planner, then getting one early may be helpful...they can give advice on vendors and venues..sometimes they might be able to get better prices. Congrats and happy planning!

angelamk39

Elope.

mobolaji

Congratulations!  I'll say start with your budget and then work on your guest list.  You don't want to invite too many people if you're working with a tight budget. Also determine your theme because that will give you direction on how to go about the planning. 

If you're looking to save money/get discounts from vendors, you may want to hire a planner.  We hired Events by Doyin who got us discounts with a lot of the big vendors.  Goodluck with planning!

regus27

Thanks "mobolaji" but I already have a planner in mind that comes highly recommended from various Knotties.