Where to Start When You’re Newly Engaged in 2026
Tips and tricks to start your wedding journey
First and foremost — congratulations on your engagement! 🎉
This is such an exciting chapter in your lives, and before the wedding planning really begins, it’s important to pause and enjoy this moment together.
As a York wedding photographer, I speak to newly engaged couples across Yorkshire every week, and one thing they all say is the same: “We’re excited… but we don’t know where to start.” If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
To help you begin your wedding journey with confidence (and far less overwhelm), here are a few simple, practical tips to guide you through those early stages.
1. Celebrate and soak up the moment
Before you dive head‑first into planning, take time to enjoy being engaged. Celebrate with your partner, family, and friends — whether that’s a big party, a quiet meal out, or simply a moment together at home.
Engagements are joyful milestones, and this feeling only happens once. Don’t rush past it.
2. Dream it up together
This is where the fun really starts. Sit down together and talk about how you imagine your wedding day looking and feeling. Create a Pinterest board, save Instagram posts, and start sharing ideas.
At this stage, there’s no pressure to make decisions — it’s about discovering your style, your vibe, and what matters most to you as a couple.
Many couples also use this time to consider booking an engagement photography session in Yorkshire, which is a great way to celebrate your engagement and get comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding day.
3. Visit venues and attend wedding fairs
Once you have a rough idea of your vision, start visiting wedding venues and, if possible, attend local wedding fairs. These events are a brilliant way to explore different venue styles, meet trusted suppliers, and get inspired.
Wedding fairs are also a relaxed way to see what’s available in Yorkshire without feeling pressured — perfect if you’re still finding your feet.
4. Book your wedding venue first
Your wedding venue should be one of the very first things you book. Securing your venue and date gives you a solid foundation for everything else — from photographers and florists to caterers and entertainment.
As a York wedding photographer, availability is always checked around your confirmed date, so locking this in early makes the rest of your planning far smoother.
5. Book your key suppliers early
Once your date is set, it’s time to book your key wedding suppliers. It can feel daunting with so much choice, but if you find suppliers whose work you genuinely love, don’t hang around.
Popular Yorkshire wedding suppliers — especially photographers — book up quickly, particularly for peak seasons. Trust your instincts and secure your favourites early to avoid disappointment.
6. Build your wedding — not anyone else’s
You’ll receive plenty of advice along the way (sometimes whether you ask for it or not!). While it’s lovely to hear different opinions, remember one important thing: this is your wedding.
Build a day that reflects you as a couple — your personalities, your priorities, and what you truly care about. The most memorable weddings are always the most personal ones.
Final thoughts
Wedding planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Take things step by step, enjoy the process, and focus on creating a day that feels right for you both.
If you’re planning a relaxed, natural wedding and are looking for a York wedding photographer who captures real moments as they unfold — or you’re interested in engagement photography in Yorkshire — I’d love to hear about your plans.
Robert Harrison Photography
Relaxed & candid wedding photography based in York