A huge congrats to all of you who became engaged over Valentine’s Day! It’s such an exciting time!! For those of you just starting or those of you who missed it, a few days ago, Martha Stewart’s Brides Guide asked us for our top tips when getting the wedding plans started. Here’s what I recommended doing the second you say “yes!”

1. Envision your day: Once you’ve taken it all in, think about what your wedding day means to you — this is the opportunity to design a world that is uniquely you and your fiance. Do you consider yourself a bit bohemian? Or, is your fiance super modern? What’s your favorite food? Do you find you surround yourself with a large circle of friends, or just a special few? By defining who you and your husband-to-be are in everyday life, you can create a wedding that reflects it.

2. Money talks: Start a dialogue between your fiance, parents, or any additional contributing parties. Discuss what’s financially realistic for you and who will be responsible for covering other areas of the wedding. Once you’ve come up with a budget and amount for each category (flowers, food, music, photography, etc.), start searching for your venue and booking vendors.

3. Maintain perspective: Emotions can run high as soon as the official planning starts. Take a vow at the very beginning that you will always remember the true significance of the day. If need be, write the words “maintain perspective” somewhere you’ll see them everyday. It’ll be a helpful reminder when the small stuff starts to throw you off track.

For those of you past this point in your planning but still at a loss, take a peek at our “Congratulations, You’re Engaged” article inside this month’s issue of Darling to get an entire rundown and easy to follow to do list to guide you through your big plans!

Congratulations again & happy planning!