
by Tori Spelling
In our new show, sTORIbook Weddings, Dean and I prove that when planning a wedding, it's not just about having the know-how (my specialty), it's also about having a "ready-for-anything" attitude when it comes to the day-of (that's where Dean comes in).
Though it might seem overwhelming, you've gotta start somewhere. So for someone who's newly engaged (yay! congrats!), here are the top five steps every bride-to-be should get going on right now.
1. Make an Announcement
Once you've stopped drooling over your ring (which can take a few days, I know), it's time to get down to business. In the excitement of the moment, you may have already called your parents and close friends to tell them the great news, but now it's time to tell everyone else.
That doesn't mean you have to make a formal press announcement a la Kate Middleton and Prince William, but you may want to put a smaller announcement in your local newspaper. You can also send out a customized postcard with a cute couple photo on the front, or even send an e-card. Try to send your e-card (or order your postcards) within the first week of getting engaged -- you don't want it to seem like old news.
2. Throw an Engagement Party
The first of several wedding parties you will throw is your engagement party! I love this one because there aren’t many "rules" about what it has to look like. Backyard BBQ? Wine and dessert at your favorite bar? Formal sit-down dinner? Any of those options can work perfectly, depending on your personal taste.
As a party planner, my job is to find out who my clients are on the inside -- and then make sure their personalities show through in every part of the event. So ask yourself, what are some things you love to do as a couple? And then plan your party around that.
3. Dream It and Plan Your Guest List
You've probably already started buying magazines, checking websites and dreaming about your dress. But before you get to any of those details, think about the overall feel of your wedding. Is it a small group of 50 close friends and family members on a private beach in California? Or is it 300 people in New York's Plaza Hotel ballroom?
Remember, the wedding should really reflect you and your fiance’s vision. Even Kate Middleton and Prince William, who are bound by some traditions, have taken a lot of steps to make sure their wedding still feels like their own. The two have said they really wanted an intimate reception, so while the ceremony may have over 2,000 people, the evening dinner may only include about 250. (And if they can trim their guest list, so can you!)
4. Pick a Date and a Venue
Now it's time to put your dream into action. You may want to pick a wedding month if you have a dream venue in mind, and then find out what dates it’s available. Start your venue search at least a year in advance, so it’s sure to have your wedding date open.
You'll want to bring a checklist of questions with you to each venue and make sure you ask about things like catering, music, decor and how long you'll ultimately have for setting up and then packing up after the wedding (really helpful info for your wedding planner too!).
5. Find Your Dress
As you probably know, chicness is my weakness, so picking the dress has got to be one of the most fun parts of the whole event. For our vow renewal last year, I wore a short white minidress by Marchesa, perfect for the intimate setting. (Just imagine what Kate Middleton will step out of her car in next week for her walk down the aisle! A large ball gown, or something more fitted? And will she change into a new dress for the reception? I can't wait to find out!)
Your dress sets the tone for the day, so whether it's over-the-top luxe or understated and classically elegant, make sure it reflects both your personality and the vibe of the wedding day.