You just said yes to forever, and I can only imagine the excitement (and maybe a little overwhelm) you’re feeling right now. This is your moment, and before wedding planning takes over, let’s take a breath and soak it all in.
Now, I know there’s so much to think about, but don’t worry—I’ve got you. Here’s a little roadmap to help you navigate this dreamy chapter with ease.
1. Celebrate the Moment
Before you dive into planning, take time to enjoy this milestone. Pop some champagne, have a romantic dinner with your fiancé, or simply spend time together reflecting on this beautiful new chapter. You’ll never get this exact moment back, so cherish it.
2. Share the News (Your Way!)
Now comes the fun part—telling your loved ones! Whether you opt for an intimate family gathering, a creative social media post, or a quiet moment with your closest friends, make it yours. Some brides love sharing a perfectly framed ring photo, while others go for a sweet, candid snapshot.
3. Get the Ring Insured & Sized
It might not be the most exciting task, but trust me, it’s important. If the fit isn’t perfect, take it for resizing. And while you’re at it, insure that little sparkler—it’s a simple step for peace of mind.
4. Book an Engagement Photoshoot
This is where the magic starts. Your commitment deserves to be celebrated with more than just phone snaps—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chapter that deserves to be captured beautifully. Finding the right engagement photographer makes all the difference in preserving the joy, love, and raw emotions of this moment.
A session with a professional doesn’t just result in breathtaking images, it also helps you and your fiancé get comfortable in front of the lens before the big day. Think of it as a relaxed, romantic date with someone there to document the love. Plus, these images will be perfect for save-the-dates, invitations, and even ceremony decor.
5. Start Dreaming Up Your Wedding Vision
Before locking in a date, take some time to imagine what kind of wedding feels right for you. Do you picture an intimate elopement, a grand celebration, or something in between? Pinterest boards and bridal magazines are great, but trust your instincts.
6. Set a Budget & Draft a Guest List
Okay, time for some logistics. Setting a budget early will help you prioritise what matters most. While you’re at it, draft a rough guest list as this will help with choosing a venue that fits your vision and numbers.
7. Enjoy This Season Before Wedding Planning Takes Over
You’re only engaged once, so don’t rush into the all-consuming world of wedding planning too fast. Go on dreamy date nights, celebrate with your inner circle, and most importantly try to soak in every second of this magical time.
Your love story is unfolding beautifully, and this is just the beginning. Take your time, enjoy the process, and when you’re ready—I’m here to help you make it unforgettable.
Fun & Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Your Engagement
Now, if you’re wondering how to make this milestone feel extra special, let me share some dreamy, heartfelt ways to celebrate your pre-wedding phase in a way that feels right for you.
1. Plan a Romantic Getaway
Before the whirlwind of ceremony planning begins, escape with your fiancé for a little adventure. Whether it’s a cosy weekend in a charming countryside cottage, a luxurious beachside retreat, or an exciting city staycation, a getaway lets you savour this time together, distraction-free.
Imagine yourself sipping champagne as the sun sets, holding hands on a scenic walk, and daydreaming about your future. No pressure, no stress—just the two of you, celebrating in your own way.
2. Host an Intimate Party
Gather your nearest and dearest for a celebration filled with love, laughter, and a touch of sparkle. It doesn’t have to be a grand event – think a backyard dinner under fairy lights, a picnic by the water, or a relaxed brunch with your favourite people.
Make it yours. Toast with your closest friends, share the proposal story, and soak in the joy of having everyone you love celebrating your happiness.
3. Book an Engagement Photoshoot
This chapter deserves to be captured, not just in your heart but in beautiful, timeless images. Get yourself booked with the right engagement photographer for you who can preserve this moment forever—the love, the excitement, and the genuine, unfiltered happiness of being newly engaged.
An engagement session isn’t just about the photos (although, trust me, you’ll love them!). It’s also the perfect way to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day. Plus, these images make perfect save-the-dates, decor, and keepsakes that will remind you of this dreamy season for years to come.
4. Recreate Your First Date
Take a walk down memory lane and revisit where it all began. Whether it was a charming café, a beachside stroll, or a spontaneous adventure, going back to that moment will remind you both of how your love story started.
Even better? Bring along a journal and write a little letter to your future selves about how you feel in this moment. Open it on your wedding day or your first anniversary—it’s a sentimental touch you’ll treasure forever.
5. Have a Just-Engaged Date Night
No need for anything extravagant—order your favourite takeaway, pop a bottle of bubbly, and slow dance in your living room. This season is fleeting, and while big celebrations are wonderful, sometimes the most meaningful moments are the quiet ones spent together.
6. Dream About the Future—Without Rushing It
Yes, there’s a wedding to plan, but for now? Just be engaged. Daydream together, talk about your hopes, and revel in this once-in-a-lifetime glow. Your marriage journey has begun, but don’t forget to enjoy this moment first.
The Best Engagement Gift Ideas for Newly Engaged Couples
If you’re looking for engagement gift ideas—whether for yourself or to subtly hint to your loved ones—here are some dreamy, sentimental, and practical treasures to celebrate this special time.
1. A Beautifully Bound Wedding Planner
Trust me, a wedding planner isn’t just a gift—it’s a lifesaver. While planning your big day is exciting, it can also feel overwhelming. A thoughtfully designed planner with checklists, timelines, and inspiration pages will keep everything organised while making the journey feel even more special.
Imagine flipping through it years from now, remembering every detail, from your colour scheme dreams to the little moments that made your wedding truly yours.
2. A Personalised Keepsake
There’s something about personalised gifts that make them feel extra magical. A custom ornament, engraved jewellery, or a framed map of where your love story began—it’s those little details that make your commitment feel even more meaningful.
One of my favourites? A custom vow book. It’s a gorgeous way to start thinking about the words you’ll say to each other on your big day while creating something you’ll treasure forever.
3. A Photoshoot with an Engagement Photographer
This season in your life deserves to be captured beautifully. Booking a session with an engagement photographer isn’t just about getting pretty pictures—it’s about freezing this moment in time.
An engagement shoot lets you celebrate you two exactly as you are, with all the excitement, love, and raw emotions that come with saying “yes.” Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before your matrimonial day, so you’ll feel relaxed and natural when the time comes. And let’s not forget—these images will make stunning save-the-dates, wedding decor, and keepsakes for generations.
4. A “Date Night” Subscription or Gift Box
With all the D-Day planning is ahead, it’s easy to get caught up in the details. A date night subscription or curated gift box reminds you to pause and enjoy this season together. Whether it’s a romantic picnic kit, a wine-tasting experience, or a couples’ adventure challenge, these gifts keep the fun alive.
5. A Memory Journal or Scrapbook
A memory journal lets you document every step, from the proposal story to the planning process and all the little moments in between. It’s a gift that will only grow more precious with time.
Cherish This Time
This season is fleeting, my love. Whether you treat yourself or receive something meaningful from a loved one, each gift is a little reminder to slow down and savour the magic of being engaged. Because this moment? It’s only the beginning of something extraordinary.
For personalized guidance and to schedule your session, contact RachelHPhotography and let us help you create lasting memories with a perfect blend of style and comfort. Visit www.rachelhphotography.com.au or call (123) 456-7890 to book your session today. We specialize in proposal photography, couples photography, elopements in Blue Mountains, maternity and newborn shoots!
Telling Your Stories since 2012 
![Congratulations Simon & Amanda who married at stunning Parklands Resort in Blackheath. The rains stopped just in time for some photos in the beautiful gardens. Surrounded by their families and closest friends, a truely wonderful celebration of their blended families. Such a fun loving vibe for the evening hosted by Robyn from @robyncelebrant_lovemyway as the celebrant and MC.
Thanks for choosing me to be apart of your special day and capture your precious memories! [More to come]](https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/474950605_1387612119309597_6704628166367741338_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=gow83e6iBe8Q7kNvgGzipj0&_nc_oc=AdhQfKY6v0-51pYdgylOg7TrOyjhe1g-h32Yqn4Yn_Ifi3NZlNk89C_Ke1G4QS5tnK0&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=g9wDwm4F2m-B-HxxTiT0-w&oh=00_AYEgbV6kwaZvLpdmUN-wV03oevupFNbnQvEUI-5mlgepbg&oe=67DAD550)
