The First Things to Book When You Get Engaged
Congratulations — you’re engaged! This is one of the most exciting chapters in your life, filled with anticipation, joy, and yes, quite a few decisions. While it’s tempting to jump straight into dress shopping or color palettes, the key to a seamless wedding experience is setting a strong foundation. To do that, there are a few essential vendors you’ll want to book first.
Let’s break down the top priorities after you say “yes.”
1. Book a Wedding Planner
Before you start touring venues or scrolling through endless inspiration boards, your first call should be to a wedding planner.
A planner is your strategic partner — helping you navigate contracts, budgets, and timelines, while ensuring your day reflects your unique story. From vendor recommendations to design direction and logistics, your planner provides the framework that keeps everything running smoothly.
The earlier you book your planner, the more value you gain. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, secure reputable vendors, and manage details you may not even realize need attention. Simply put — booking a planner first means setting your entire planning process up for success.
2. Secure Your Venue
Your venue sets the tone for everything that follows — your style, your guest list, even your budget. Once you’ve partnered with your planner, the next step is locking in a venue that aligns with your vision.
Venues often book out 12–18 months in advance, so early action is key. Consider your guest capacity, location accessibility, and what’s included in your rental package. Your planner can help compare options and identify hidden costs (like additional rentals or time restrictions) that may impact your overall budget.
A confirmed venue gives you a date — and from there, everything else begins to take shape.
3. Choose Your Caterer
Food plays a major role in your guests’ experience, so booking your caterer early is crucial, especially if your venue doesn’t include in-house catering.
Many top caterers are booked months ahead, particularly during peak wedding seasons. Beyond menu tasting, your planner will help you review service styles (plated, buffet, stations) and assess how catering fits into your overall event flow and budget.
Great catering isn’t just about food — it’s about presentation, timing, and service that complements your wedding vision.
4. Book Your Photographer
Your wedding day will fly by, but the photos last a lifetime. Once your date and venue are secured, reach out to a photographer whose style speaks to you.
Professional photographers typically book 9–12 months in advance. Review their portfolios carefully, schedule a consultation, and ensure your personalities click — after all, this person will be with you during your most intimate moments on the day.
A skilled photographer doesn’t just capture images — they preserve emotions, atmosphere, and the details that make your day unforgettable.
Our Final Thoughts
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start with a trusted planner who can guide you through every decision and help you secure the right vendors in the right order.
At Exquisite Events, we believe every couple deserves a planning experience that’s organized, enjoyable, and uniquely personal. Your engagement is just the beginning — let’s make sure the journey to “I do” is everything you dreamed of. So, let’s talk about how we can do just that. Click here to schedule a consultation.
Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Beaufort, New Bern, Newport, and The Crystal Coast of North Carolina.
Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham
Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full-Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.
Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events
in New Bern North Carolina, Beaufort North Carolina, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.