There are things you should know – both good and bad – before you get engaged.
Getting engaged is one of those life moments that feels both magical and overwhelming all at once. Whether you saw it coming or were completely surprised, slipping on that ring marks the beginning of a brand‑new chapter — one filled with excitement, decisions and a whole lot of learning. Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known before getting engaged that would have made the transition into this season feel smoother and even more joyful. If you’re newly engaged—or hoping to be soon— here is what I wish I knew before getting engaged that could help you navigate it all with confidence and clarity.
The Urgency
Once you’re engaged, everything suddenly feels like it needs to happen right now. Venues book quickly, vendors get snatched up, and everyone seems to have an opinion on your timeline. While that sense of urgency can feel intense, it also pushes you to get organized and prioritize what truly matters. It teaches you how to make decisions with intention, how to advocate for your vision and how to trust your instincts. And honestly, checking things off your list early feels incredibly empowering.
Family (and Friends) Come Out of the Woodwork
Engagement news spreads fast — and so do the opinions, questions and unsolicited advice. While it can be overwhelming, it’s also a reminder of how many people genuinely care about you and want to be part of your joy. This is a chance to set healthy boundaries, strengthen relationships and learn how to communicate as a couple. And sometimes, those unexpected helpers turn out to be your biggest supporters throughout the planning process.
Moving In Together
If you haven’t lived together before, engagement often becomes the catalyst for combining homes — and lives. Yes, there’s an adjustment period, but it’s also a beautiful opportunity to build new routines, traditions and a shared space that feels like “us.” You learn each other’s quirks, find your rhythm and create a home that reflects both of your personalities. It’s the beginning of your everyday life together, and that’s something to celebrate.
Joint Finances
Talking about money isn’t always glamorous, but engagement forces those conversations in a way that ultimately strengthens your partnership. Budgeting together, planning for the wedding and discussing long‑term goals helps you understand each other’s values and priorities. It’s a chance to build trust, transparency and teamwork — skills that will serve you well long after the wedding day.
The Perks
There are so many sweet perks that come with being engaged: the celebrations, the attention, the little moments of “show me the ring” and the feeling of being wrapped in love from every direction. You get to dream together, plan together and soak in a season that’s all about your commitment to each other. It’s a time filled with joy, anticipation and connection, so let yourself enjoy every bit of it. Plus, it’s fun to let restaurants, airlines and any other fun places to know – they could throw in free stuff.
The Decisions
From the venue to the guest list to the color palette, engagement comes with a lot of choices. While decision fatigue is real, this is also where you discover your shared style, your priorities and your ability to compromise. Each decision becomes a tiny building block of the life you’re creating. And when you finally see everything come together, it’s incredibly rewarding.
True Colors
Engagement has a way of revealing who shows up for you — and who doesn’t. It also shows you new sides of your partner, your families and even yourself. While some moments may surprise you, many of them are positive: people stepping up, offering support and celebrating you wholeheartedly. It’s a season that clarifies relationships and strengthens the ones that matter most.
Remember, getting engaged isn’t just about planning a wedding — it’s about stepping into a new version of your life with someone you love. This era will stretch you, surprise you and teach you more about yourself and your relationships than you ever expected. But it will also fill your days with joy, connection and moments you’ll look back on with so much gratitude. If you can embrace the lessons, stay grounded in what matters, and give yourself grace along the way, this chapter becomes not just a countdown to “I do,” but a beautiful beginning to everything that comes after.