First of all—CONGRATULATIONS! You’re engaged! Whether the proposal was totally private or a full-on surprise with family and friends, I hope you’re still riding that wave of excitement (and maybe staring at your left hand a little more than usual!). As a Boulder and Denver elopement photographer, I get to walk alongside so many couples during this season, and I know just how fun and overwhelming it can be. So take a deep breath, grab your person, and let’s dive into seven heartfelt, practical tips for newly engaged couples.

Newly Engaged Couples, Soak It All In

Seriously. Before you announce it to the world or dive headfirst into planning, take a moment—just the two of you—to be present. Celebrate your commitment and everything that brought you to this point. This is a huge milestone; you deserve to savor it before the whirlwind begins!

Don’t Feel Pressured to Have All the Answers

Everyone (and I mean everyone) will have questions: When’s the wedding? Where will it be? Are you doing something big or small? And while it’s totally okay to share your ideas, it’s also totally okay to say, “We’re just enjoying being engaged for now.” You don’t have to have it all figured out on day one.

Talk About What You Both Want

Before touring venues or building Pinterest boards, sit down together and chat about what you both envision for your wedding day. Maybe that means an adventurous mountaintop elopement in Boulder, an intimate Denver celebration, or something completely outside the box. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to weddings, so tune into what feels right for you.

Set Some Priorities (and a Budget) As Newly Engaged Couples

Once you’ve talked about the big picture, get real about what matters most. Maybe photography is at the top of your list (yes please!), or maybe it’s travel, food, or an epic floral install. Setting your priorities early helps you spend your budget intentionally and avoid overwhelm later.

Newly Engaged Couples, Hire Vendors You Trust

One of the best things you can do for yourself during this season as newly engaged couples? Surround yourself with kind, professional, down-to-earth vendors who truly have your back. (Hint: you don’t have to do it alone!) Whether you’re dreaming of an elopement in the Flatirons or a cozy downtown Denver celebration, your vendor team should feel like a crew of friends helping you bring your vision to life.

Make Time for the Fun Stuff

Amidst the checklists and logistics, don’t forget to have fun! Book an engagement session (they’re seriously the best), go cake tasting, plan a silly date night, or write letters to each other to open on your wedding day. This season is about your relationship—make sure you leave room for joy.

Remember: This Is YOUR Day

Whether you’re planning a two-person mountaintop vow exchange or a backyard dinner party with your favorite people, let your day reflect you. Forget the expectations, ditch the trends if they don’t feel like you, and create something that feels real and honest and yours. You have permission to do things differently.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy the Journey

Engagement is such a unique, beautiful chapter in your love story. There will be highs and lows, exciting decisions and unexpected changes—but you’ve got each other through it all. And that’s what matters most. 💛

If you ever need someone to help you navigate the planning, document your love, or just cheer you on, know I’m here for you! Whether you’re planning an elopement in Boulder, Denver, or beyond, I’d love to be part of your journey.