Congrats, you are engaged! Now what?

You stared into each other's' eyes, the question was asked, and you said YES! If your engagement was private, you have a small window before the MOBS and FOBS attack, wanting to help you plan for the wedding, which you probably haven't even thought of the first 24 hours. If your engagement was public, may God have mercy on you, as the MOBS and FOBS have already swarmed you. Have no fear, I am here for the rescue! Let me first explain the MOBS and FOBS. MOBS are the lovely, sometimes (highly) opinionated Mothers of the Bride and Groom. Please note, not all MOBS will be overbearing and want to take over the wedding. In fact, many are very understanding that the wedding day is about their child (don't fight it, you will always be their child). However, there are a few, that for some reason, in their enthusiasm, begin helping and try and take over. Then there are the FOBS, friends/family of the bride and groom. They too sometimes tend to forget that its not their wedding. Many try to be helpful, and actually are, but you might find yourself having to remind them, its your day. Don't feel rush to have the answer to, "When is the wedding?". It is perfectly alright to be engaged and not have a date. In fact, the only thing you need to do with your fiance as soon get engaged is to enjoy the moment, the feeling and excitement that comes with being engaged. Do not let yourself feel pressured into setting a date or going dress shopping until you and your fiance have had a moment to sit down for the wedding talk. What is the wedding talk? It's the conversation you and your fiance must have in terms of what is the next step. Topics to cover must include finances, timeline, location, and both your and your fiance's wedding vision. When planning a wedding, many brides forget that this is not just their day, but the groom's day also. Is there a particular date that means something to you both? Who's paying for the wedding? How much time you have to plan? Do you want a small wedding, big wedding? What are the things that identify you as a couple? Once you have sat down and established what you both want for a wedding, what your budget is, and what date you are wanting to get married, it is time to shop. But don't get excited, I am not yet talking about the dress! I'm talking about a wedding planner or assistant. Someone who will take on the stress of the planning off your shoulders, who will respect your vision and budget and help you achieve your dream wedding. Many people often wonder why hire a wedding planner, when they can do it, or a family/friend says they will pitch in. A good wedding planner has vendor connections that can end up saving you money. They will make the phone calls and speak with the vendors for you, help you narrow the searches, and even help you negotiate. They will make sure your bridal party get their attire in order and run everything smoothly the day of the wedding. The first couple of days after getting engaged are a jumble of emotions. It is a lot to take in and it all might seem overwhelming. Just remember, enjoy the feeling with your fiancé, everything else will fall into place when it needs to! And remember, any questions, I am here! Cecilia