You’ve said YES! The ring is on your finger! Congratulations! This is one of those beautiful, perfect moments in life that deserves to be savoured, not rushed. So before you dive headfirst into venue tours and seating charts, let's talk about what really matters right now.
Enjoying This Special Time with Loved ones
You've just been proposed to. It’s exciting, overwhelming and you‘re feeling the love from everyone! Sit with it. Let yourself feel all the excitement, joy, and maybe even a little bit of overwhelm. Spend some time just being engaged. Go for a walk with your dog (who, let's be honest, probably sensed something was up before you did). Curl up on the sofa together. Talk about what getting married means to you both, not just what the wedding will look like.
There's No Rush
The pressure to start planning immediately can feel intense. Suddenly everyone wants to know the date, the venue, the colour scheme. But here's the truth: you've got time. There's no rule that says you need to book a venue within a week or choose your bridesmaids by next Tuesday.
Take a few weeks – or even months – to simply enjoy being newly engaged. Let the news sink in. Talk about what kind of celebration feels right for you both. Do you want something intimate or a big celebration? Formal or relaxed? Summer or winter? These conversations don't need answering straight away, and that's perfectly fine. Also importantly how can your dog be involved in your celebrations!
Your Dog Has Been There All Along
As you start to dream about your wedding day, there's one guest who's been by your side through every milestone leading up to this moment, your dog. They were there for the first dates, the lazy Sunday mornings, and every adventure in between. It's only natural to wonder how they'll fit into your big day.
Maybe they'll walk down the aisle with you, or perhaps they'll just be there for photos before heading home to relax. Some couples want their dog front and centre, while others prefer knowing they're nearby but not overwhelmed by the excitement. There's no right or wrong answer – it's about what feels right for you and what keeps your furry friend comfortable and happy.
The beauty of being newly engaged is that you have time to figure all of this out. You don't need to make decisions today. Just enjoy picturing your dog in a bow tie or flower collar, and know that when the time comes, there are ways to include them that work for everyone.
Starting to Plan
As you ease into planning mode, you'll get a lot of opinions – from family, friends, wedding forums, social media. Everyone means well, but ultimately this day is about you and your partner. Trust your gut. The same goes for your dog's involvement. If you dream of them being by your side all day, make it happen. If you'd rather they're somewhere calm and safe while you celebrate, that's equally valid. You know your dog best, and you'll know what will make the day joyful for everyone.
This Is Just the Beginning
Being newly engaged is a fleeting, magical time. Before you know it, you'll be knee-deep in spreadsheets and supplier emails. So give yourself permission to slow down, to celebrate, to simply be excited without needing a plan.
Take your dog for a long walk. Call the people you love. And remember: the wedding is one day, but the marriage – and the life you're building together, four legs and all – is what really matters.
Congratulations again. Enjoy every second of this.
