Top 10 Questions Newly Engaged Couples Often Google
Congratulations on your engagement! Now that the excitement is settling in, it’s time to start planning your wedding. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the first steps can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate this exciting journey, we’ve compiled the top 10 questions newly engaged couples often Google, along with detailed answers to guide you through the process.
1. How Much Does a Wedding Cost on Average?
One of the first things couples want to know is the cost of a wedding. In 2024, the average wedding in the U.S. costs around $30,000. However, this can vary widely depending on location, guest count, and personal preferences. When budgeting, consider the following key expenses:
Venue: Typically 30-40% of your budget.
Catering: 20-30% of your budget.
Photography/Videography: 10-15% of your budget.
Attire: 10% of your budget.
Decor and Florals: 8-12% of your budget.
Entertainment: 5-10% of your budget.
Remember to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses, and don’t forget about taxes and gratuities.
2. What Are the First Steps in Planning a Wedding?
Planning a wedding involves many steps, but here’s a simple roadmap to get started:
Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and who will be contributing.
Create a Guest List: Start with a rough list to estimate the size of your wedding.
Choose a Date: Consider the season, holidays, and significant dates to you both.
Pick a Venue: Venue availability may influence your wedding date, so these decisions often go hand-in-hand.
Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional): If your budget allows, a planner can be invaluable in coordinating details and reducing stress.
Research Vendors: Start looking into photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment.
Send Save-the-Dates: Once your date and venue are confirmed, let your guests know.
3. How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue?
Choosing a venue is a big decision, and here’s how to narrow it down:
Consider Your Vision: Think about the style of wedding you want—beach, rustic, urban, or something else.
Budget: Venues can range from affordable community spaces to luxurious resorts. Ensure your choice fits your budget.
Guest List Size: The venue must comfortably accommodate your guests.
Location: Consider proximity for your guests and whether the venue offers accommodations.
Availability: Popular venues can book up quickly, so inquire as soon as possible.
Visit several venues before making a decision, and always ask about what’s included in the cost (e.g., tables, chairs, linens).
4. What Is the Best Time of Year to Get Married?
The best time of year to get married depends on several factors:
Weather: Consider the climate in your desired location. Spring and fall are often preferred for milder weather.
Budget: Off-season weddings (winter or summer in some areas) can be more affordable.
Availability: Popular dates like holidays or “lucky” dates can book up fast.
Personal Preference: Some couples choose dates with sentimental value or avoid certain dates due to family or cultural reasons.
Ultimately, the “best” time is when you feel most comfortable and when the elements align with your vision and budget.
5. How to Choose a Wedding Theme or Style?
Your wedding theme sets the tone for your entire celebration. Here’s how to choose one:
Consider Your Interests: Think about your hobbies, favorite colors, or shared passions.
Venue: Your venue may naturally lend itself to a particular style, like a barn for rustic or a ballroom for classic elegance.
Season: Certain themes pair well with different seasons—pastels for spring, rich tones for fall.
Mood: Decide whether you want a formal, semi-formal, or casual atmosphere.
Popular themes include rustic chic, modern minimalist, vintage glamour, and romantic garden. Browse Pinterest, wedding blogs, and magazines for inspiration.
6. What Are the Most Popular Wedding Dress Styles?
Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of planning. Here are some popular styles:
A-Line: Universally flattering with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt.
Ball Gown: Dramatic and fairy-tale-like, perfect for traditional weddings.
Mermaid: Form-fitting and elegant, ideal for those looking to show off their curves.
Sheath: Simple and sophisticated, great for beach or destination weddings.
Bohemian: Relaxed and free-spirited, often featuring lace and flowy fabrics.
When shopping, consider your body type, venue, and personal style. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles—you might be surprised by what you love!
7. How to Create a Wedding Guest List?
Creating a guest list can be one of the most challenging tasks. Here’s how to approach it:
Start with a Dream List: Write down everyone you’d love to invite.
Categorize: Group guests into categories like family, friends, work colleagues, and plus-ones.
Consider Your Budget: The number of guests will directly impact your budget, so be realistic about who makes the final cut.
Discuss with Key People: If parents are contributing financially, they may want a say in the guest list.
Prioritize: If you need to trim the list, prioritize those closest to you.
Be prepared to make tough decisions, and remember, it’s your day—invite those who will make it special for you.
8. What Are the Current Wedding Trends?
Staying on top of wedding trends can help inspire your planning. Some wedding trends expected to be popular in 2025 include:
Bold Fashion Statements: Non-traditional colors like pastels, metallics, or even black wedding dresses. Brides are also experimenting with capes, detachable skirts, and unconventional silhouettes. Grooms embracing bold styles, including patterned suits, colorful tuxedos, and accessorizing with statement pieces.
Glamorous and Dramatic Décor: Return to glamour with luxurious materials like velvet, gold accents, and crystal chandeliers. Themes inspired by the roaring ’20s or Old Hollywood are expected to be popular. Large floral installations, dramatic lighting, and ceiling décor that create an immersive and visually striking atmosphere.
Food and Beverage Experiences: Instead of traditional plated dinners, couples are opting for interactive grazing tables, food trucks, or stations where guests can customize their meals. Customizable drink stations offering craft cocktails or mocktails with unique flavors, often tied to the couple’s story or heritage.
Extended Celebrations: Multi-day events with planned activities, like welcome parties, guided tours, or day-after brunches, making the wedding a full experience.
Unexpected Entertainment: From live artists creating wedding-day portraits to interactive games to surprise performances.
Eco-Conscious Choices: Couples are focusing on sustainability with eco-friendly invitations, reusable or repurposed décor, locally sourced flowers, and sustainable fashion choices like renting attire or choosing second-hand dresses.
Incorporate trends that resonate with you, but stay true to your personal style.
9. How to Find and Choose Wedding Vendors?
Your vendors will play a crucial role in bringing your wedding to life. Here’s how to find the best ones:
Ask for Recommendations: Start with friends and family who have recently married.
Research Online: Look at reviews, social media, and portfolios to find vendors who align with your vision.
Interview Multiple Vendors: Meet with at least three vendors in each category (photography, catering, etc.) to compare.
Check References: Ask for references and speak to past clients.
Contracts: Ensure everything is in writing, including what happens in case of cancellation or changes.
Trust your gut—choose vendors who understand your vision and with whom you feel comfortable.
10. How to Plan a Honeymoon on a Budget?
A memorable honeymoon doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to plan one on a budget:
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford and stick to it.
Choose an Off-Season Destination: Traveling during the off-season can save you a lot on flights and accommodations.
Look for Package Deals: Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages that can be more affordable than booking everything separately.
Consider Alternative Locations: Instead of popular (and expensive) spots, consider less-traveled destinations.
Use Points or Miles: If you have credit card rewards, now is the time to cash them in for flights or hotels.
Planning in advance and being flexible with your dates and destination can also help you score great deals.
Planning a wedding is a journey that can be as joyful as the day itself. By addressing these top questions, you’re well on your way to creating your dream celebration.