Are you engaged? Congratulations! With all the uncertainties around the global pandemic, it’s hard to know what next steps to take (and when you can take them!). It’s impossible to physically meet with venues or vendors, finances may become shaky, and with so many weddings being rescheduled, it’s becoming more competitive to find an available wedding date that also aligns with your preferred vendors.

I get it; it’s a scary time. And the furthest from what you had envisioned for your engagement and wedding planning season of life. Feelings of anger, frustration, and sadness are all valid! When you are ready, here are some things you CAN do while staying physically distant. And just remember: at the end of the day, you’ll still be happy, in love and engaged!

Dream

Take some of this extra time to dream and explore possibilities! Find time to talk to friends, think back to weddings you've attended, explore Wedding Wire, and of course, Pinterest! Whatever your style may be, consider creating a private Pinterest board or a physical wedding planning binder to jump start your creative ideas. Want to take it a step farther? Make a mood board with some printed images, cutouts from a magazine, and craft supplies found around your home!

Talk

Start to talk with your partner and your families about the budget. While this may fluctuate over time, you will benefit from knowing up front what your estimated budget will be for your wedding and reception. A quick google search reveals the average cost of a wedding and reception in Virginia in 2019 was around $28k. Wedding Wire shows you cost information for most vendors as well.

Inquire

Don't be afraid to reach out to your dream vendors now. We are in a similar boat, also awaiting your wedding day! I have always made video appointments available as an option to potential clients, and this is a great way to connect. You can share screens, see faces and expressions, and if you’re lucky, meet some pets!

I am happy to hear all about your plans and offer a sample contract with an estimate for your planning purposes. We’re in this together!