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The Science Behind “Happy Wife, Happy Life” Is it true?

As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless moments of joy, love, and celebration. I’ve also heard more best man speeches and parental advice than I can count. One phrase that seems to pop up time and again is “happy wife, happy life”. It’s often delivered with a knowing nod and a chuckle, as if it’s the secret key to a successful marriage.

But it got me thinking – is there any truth to this saying? Is a happy wife really the magic ingredient to a happy life? Intrigued, I decided to delve a little deeper and find out what science has to say about it.

Bride and groom in autumn leaves

Unraveling the Saying “Happy Wife, Happy Life”

“Happy wife, happy life” – a phrase we’ve all heard, and some of us may have even used. But what does it really mean? Is there any truth to it? And what does science have to say about it? Let’s dive in and explore these questions.

The saying “happy wife, happy life” is often used to express the idea that if the wife in a family is happy, it leads to an overall happier life for everyone involved, including the husband. It’s a phrase that’s been around for a while, with its origins somewhat unclear. Some believe it first appeared in a rhyme by the United States Political group “The Work and Wages Party” in 1903, while others suggest it was used in a real estate ad in Abilene, Texas in 1958.

The idea behind it being the somewhat outdated gender norm of when it comes to gender roles in a family, the woman rules the home, and the husband brings money to be used. The woman’s moods need to be good to enable the family’s happiness.

Regardless of its origins, it has become a widely accepted idiom in our society.

Laughing bridal couple under veil

The Science of Happiness in Marriage

A study from the University of Alberta, which analyzed over 50,000 relationship satisfaction reports, challenges the stereotype of “happy wife, happy life”. The research found that both men’s and women’s satisfaction levels were strong predictors of short- and long-term happiness for themselves and their partners. This suggests that the happiness of both partners is equally important in predicting their future happiness together.

The study drew on data from 10 Canadian, American, and German studies involving 901 mixed-gender couples daily for up to 21 days and 3,405 mixed-gender couples assessed annually for five years. It is the first comprehensive study to rigorously test a general theory from the 1970s about gender differences in relationship communication.

The results dispel the notion that women have unique diagnostic abilities in relationships and highlight the equal ability and shared responsibility of both partners in directing the course of their relationship.

Happy groom

The Dangers of the Saying

While the saying may seem harmless, it can have negative implications. It can lead to a dynamic where the wife’s happiness becomes the sole responsibility of the husband, which can put undue pressure on both parties. It can also perpetuate gender stereotypes, suggesting that the woman’s mood dictates the family’s happiness and that the man’s role is primarily to keep his wife happy.

Moreover, the saying can be detrimental to a marriage if it’s used as an excuse for selfish behavior or if it leads to resentment or unhappiness. It’s important for individuals to take responsibility for their own happiness instead of relying solely on their spouse. A successful partnership is built on respect, communication, equality, and shared responsibility.

bride and groom in middle of Grenfell St

Building a Strong Marriage

So, what does it take to build a strong marriage? Healthy communication, gratitude, trust-building, acceptance of disagreements, and forgiveness are all crucial elements. When things are going well in a relationship, it’s important to capitalize on it; when things aren’t good, taking action is crucial. Being reflective and intentional about directing the relationship can lead to more success and less heartache.

Bride lifting groom under full moon

“Happy spouse, Happy house”

While the saying may be catchy, and can evoke a bit of a cheap cackle from the crowd at a wedding, it’s not entirely accurate. A happy life is not solely dependent on a happy wife. Both partners play an equal role in creating a happy and fulfilling life together. So perhaps it’s time we updated the saying to “happy spouse, happy house”.

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From Savings to ‘I Do’: A Guide on Growing and Investing for Your Dream Wedding

For nearly two decades, we’ve captured countless weddings as wedding photographers, and it’s evident that today’s economic challenges have made luxury events like weddings a tough decision for many couples.

However, your dream wedding doesn’t need to drain your finances. With the right financial planning and astute investments, you can bring your dream wedding to life without skimping on its grandeur. In this guide, we’ll outline some crucial steps to help nurture your wedding fund and make savvy investment decisions.

Hopefully these tips help you understand what’s needed to afford a large wedding, but keep in mind that saving a large amount of money is a task that’s not easy and can be done in many different ways. This isn’t financial advice, so don’t take it to heart – it’s just something we’ve noticed over the years that have helped our couples in the past.

bride and groom in front of Bonython hall

Start Savings

Getting married is an exciting time, but it is also a big financial commitment. To ensure you are ready to handle the expenses, start saving early and systematically.

Start by making a list of all the costs associated with your wedding. Determine which items are non-negotiable and which can be cut. This exercise will help you prioritize what is most important and show you how much you need to save to achieve your dream wedding.

Set aside a portion of each paycheck into a dedicated savings account specifically for wedding-related expenses or how to save for a house. This separate account simplifies expense tracking and helps you stick to your budget for your home savings. Consider opening a high-yield savings account to earn interest, which can accelerate your progress toward your financial goals.

Darwin Surf Life Saving Club Wedding Ceremony

Make a Budget

A dream wedding can seem like a pipe dream if you don’t have the funds to pay for it. However, planning and financing your dream wedding is possible if you work together as a couple and are disciplined with your savings strategies.

Start with a realistic budget for your wedding and allocate funds to different categories such as venue, attire, catering, and photography. If your savings goals are not feasible with just two incomes, consider getting a part-time job to speed up your goal or delaying the wedding date to give yourself more time to save.

Keep track of all expenses by creating a spreadsheet or using a budgeting app to see where you’re spending your money and how much you have left for your wedding. Even small purchases like a daily candy bar or cappuccino can add up to a significant amount at the end of the month!

spiral engagement ring in red rose

Set a Goal

Creating a vision board is one of the most important first steps when planning your dream wedding. This visual tool can help you narrow your vision while ensuring that you only focus on elements that fit your budget.

Start by listing your top three priorities for your big day. These can be anything from your dress to your honeymoon plans. Once you have your priority list, research how much each item may cost. Once you know how much each item will cost, divide the total by the number of items on your priority list to determine a per-item budget.

Consider opening a separate savings account to help reach your wedding savings goal. A high-yield money market or certificate account can be an effective way to grow your wedding savings. You can also open a personal loan to increase your wedding savings.

Early morning sunrise engagement photo

Consult Financial Advisors

Seek advice from experienced professionals who can provide expert insights and help you create a comprehensive investment strategy tailored to your wedding goals and unique financial situation. These advisors possess the knowledge to guide you through the intricacies of investment options, risk assessment, and market trends, ensuring that your investments align with your short-term wedding plans and long-term financial aspirations. Their expertise can be instrumental in maximizing the growth potential of your funds, so you can confidently march towards a memorable wedding and a secure financial future.

Bride with her engagement ring

Start Investing

Weddings are enchanting moments that create memories but also come at a high cost. However, if you have a clear vision of how much your dream wedding will cost and start saving early, you can have that special day without going into debt.

One way to save for your wedding is to open an online savings account earmarked specifically for your special day. It could be a regular savings account, a money market, or a certificate of deposit that earns a higher interest rate. Consider setting up a second job to bring in extra income for your wedding that can be invested or spent as needed.

Alternatively, consider looking at tax-saving instruments like ELSS that reduce your liability and help increase your savings. Consider these options with the help of a financial planner.

bride and groom in middle of Grenfell St

Growing and investing for your dream wedding is an empowering journey that requires patience and commitment. By following these steps and staying financially savvy, you can make your wedding day memorable and financially sound. Remember, the key is to start early, stay disciplined, and let your investments contribute to your happily ever after.

 

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Decoding the Glamour: Wedding Photography Costs

Planning a wedding is like choreographing a grand ballet, and guess who’s taking center stage? Your wedding photographer! There is no other vendor that is going to have as much of an influence on your big day than your photographer. They are the one you’ll be with all day, and choosing the right one for you is incredibly important. But with all those dollar signs flashing, you might be wondering, “Why so pricey?” Let’s shed some light on this shall we?

1. How much do you expect to pay for a wedding photographer in Adelaide?

Adelaide, with its charming streets and romantic sunsets, is a dream for wedding photos. As a photographer based in Adelaide, Adelaide has a surprisingly diverse set of scenery that can cater to almost any type of wedding – from a medieval castle in the Adelaide Hills through to grungey industrial backdrops throughout Port Adelaide.

Depending on your photographer’s experience, style, and offerings, you could be looking at anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000 just for the coverage. On average, most couples set aside around $2,500 to $4,000. But here’s the inside scoop: it’s not just about the price. It’s about the memories, the moments, and the magic. These figures are taken from ABIA’s State of the wedding industry report.

Diving into the specifics, all photographers offer different wedding photography packages. Some might include pre-wedding shoots, while others might throw in a lovely album. And then there are those extra hours, second photographers, and even photobooths! It’s like picking your wedding dress; you’ve got to find the one that fits just right.

Adelaide Botanic Park wedding photos

2. How much is a wedding photographer in Australia?

The average spend on wedding photography throughout Australia hovers between $2,500 to $4,500. So Adelaide tends to be a little cheaper, while cities like Sydney or Melbourne might have you reaching deeper into your pockets when it comes to wedding photography costs.

But here’s a little secret: it’s not just about the city or the backdrop. It’s about the story each photographer tells. Their unique style, their approach, and the way they see love. So, while you’re counting pennies, also count the moments you want to be captured.

We now have the ability to view work of wedding phtoographers from all over the world through platforms such as instagram, so dont think you’d be stuck with only wedding photographers from your local area! If you admire and are in love with the work from a photographer in Paruguay (for example) reach out and have them travel to you! We have travelled quite a bit for destination weddings and the cost of bringing in someone you love may well be more cost effective than you think!

Choosing the right photographer for you is something that really should make the price consideration be as low as possible on the list of considerations. The only thing you’ll have as a result of this incredible day that you’re planning are your memories, and your photos are physical representations of these. It’s an investment in your future wellbeing and your ability to look back and remember your incredible day. If you go cheap, then you may lose out on that.

walking toward wilpena pound

3. Is it normal to pay for a wedding photographer?

In a word? Absolutely! Your wedding photographer is like that fairy godmother who captures every magical moment. And magic, my dear, comes with a price. Beyond the day itself, think of the hours of editing, the equipment, and the expertise. It’s not just about clicking a camera; it’s about capturing a feeling.

Behind every photo is a story. The nervous glance before the first look, the tear in your parent’s eye, the laughter during the speeches. Your photographer is there, blending into the background, ensuring every emotion is immortalized.

Having a wedding photographer that is worth their expense and one who you trust ensures you capture your entire story.

Bride and groom in front of the manor’s keep at night

4. Why is wedding photography so expensive?

Alright, time for some real talk. Wedding photography is an art. It’s about seeing the unseen, capturing the fleeting, and telling a story that lasts a lifetime. Now, add the top-tier equipment, the latest software, and the hours spent perfecting each image. Plus, there’s the business side of things – insurance, taxes, studio space, and more.

But here’s the golden nugget: these photos are forever. They’re the ones you’ll pull out on rainy days, the ones you’ll show your grandkids, the ones that’ll transport you back in time. So, while the price tag might seem hefty now, the memories? They’re priceless.

If you think about it, wedding photographers make a living from their weddings, which usually take place on a Saturday – thats around 52-odd client-contact days a year. Not many people are married in winter so that custs things down to around 30-40.

I know my personal equipment I take to a wedding hovers around the ~$40k mark in value, and then as mentioned there are the other costs and time taken editing and actually running the business.

It’s the best job in the world, but it’s very demanding on time 🙂

Walk ways of Thera, Santorini

5. Tips for Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Budget

Budgeting for a wedding is like a dance, and you want to make sure every dollar twirls in the right direction. When it comes to photography, start by researching. Look at portfolios, read reviews, and maybe even meet a few photographers for coffee. Understand what’s included in their packages and what might cost extra.

Remember, it’s not just about the wedding photography costs. It’s about the connection. You want someone who gets your vision, understands your love story, and can capture it in a way that feels authentically you.

We like to sit down with each couple who are considering us to be their wedding photographers and have a bit of a chat to find out what makes them smile. Developing a connection with your photographers not only is important to feel comfortable, but it also dgoes a long way to creating awesome photos.

Dancing together a top River Murray Cliff

Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions, moments, and memories. And at the heart of it all is your love story. While budgeting for wedding photography costs, remember that you’re investing in memories. So, find that perfect photographer, strike a pose (or not as the case my be), and let the magic unfold!

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A Guide to Adelaide’s Best Wedding Regions

As you plan your big day, finding the perfect location is key to making your wedding dreams come true. Adelaide is home to a variety of beautiful regions, each with its unique charms and attractions. From the romantic vineyards of the Barossa Valley to the scenic Adelaide Hills, there are plenty of options for couples looking to tie the knot. In this guide, we’ll explore Adelaide’s best wedding regions and help you find the perfect setting for your special day.

As an Adelaide-based wedding photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing countless beautiful weddings in a variety of stunning locations throughout South Australia. Over the years, I have come to appreciate the unique charms and attractions of each of the different regions around Adelaide, and I wanted to share that knowledge, with this guide on Adelaide’s best wedding regions.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and choosing the right location is a crucial decision. By providing a comprehensive guide to the different regions around Adelaide, I hope to make it easier for bridal couples to find the perfect setting for their big day. Each region has its unique features, whether it be the lush vineyards of the Barossa Valley, the stunning beaches of Coastal Adelaide, or the historic charm of the Adelaide CBD. By considering these factors, couples can choose a location that reflects their personalities and preferences and create a wedding day that is both beautiful and memorable.

In addition to helping bridal couples choose a location, I also wanted to highlight the photography opportunities in each region. As a wedding photographer, I understand the importance of capturing beautiful photos that reflect the beauty and emotions of the day. By highlighting the unique photo opportunities in each region, I hope to inspire couples to choose a location that not only looks beautiful in person but also provides stunning backdrops for their wedding photos.

My Guide to Adelaide’s Best Wedding Regions

The Barossa Valley: Romance in the Vineyards

The Barossa Valley is a picturesque wine region located just an hour’s drive from Adelaide. With its rolling hills, charming vineyards, and quaint towns, it’s no surprise that the Barossa is a popular destination for weddings. Couples seeking a romantic, rustic ambiance will love the region’s historic wineries and scenic countryside.

Mclaren Vale Ekhidna winery wedding vineyard photo sunset walk

One of the best things about getting married in the Barossa is the stunning photo opportunities. The vineyards and rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos, while the charming towns of Tanunda, Nuriootpa, and Angaston offer plenty of picturesque spots for outdoor shots.

Chateau Yaldara wedding ceremony

There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Barossa Valley, including The Louise and Seppeltsfield Winery. The Louise is a luxurious boutique hotel with an onsite restaurant and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Seppeltsfield Winery is a historic estate that has been hosting weddings for over 100 years and offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any wedding style. For more information on Barossa Valley wedding venues, be sure to check out some of my favourites here.

bridal party together on the grounds of Seppeltsfield winery

Mclaren Vale: Rustic Charm on the Coast

If you’re looking for a wedding location that combines rustic charm with coastal scenery, Mclaren Vale is the perfect choice. This stunning wine region is situated just south of Adelaide and boasts some of South Australia’s most beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and vineyards. I may be a bit biasd being a local, but Mclaren Vale is the pinnacle of Adelaide’s Best Wedding Regions!

bride and groom in vines

Mclaren Vale is known for its warm, Mediterranean climate, which makes it an ideal location for outdoor weddings. The region is home to a variety of wedding venues, including the picturesque Ekhidna Winery and the newly redeveloped Chapel Hill.

Mclaren Vale Ekhidna winery wedding vineyard photo sunset

One of the best things about getting married in Mclaren Vale is the wide range of photo opportunities. From the vineyards and olive groves to the stunning coastline, there are plenty of beautiful spots to capture your special day. Whether you’re looking for classic wedding shots or something a little more unique, Mclaren Vale has it all.

Bride and groom dance at sunset

Adelaide Hills: Romance in the Hills

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, just a short drive from the city, lies one of the most beautiful wedding regions in Australia. With its rolling hills, scenic countryside, and charming towns, the Adelaide Hills is the perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic, rustic ambiance.

Adelaide Hills wedding photography

The Adelaide Hills is home to a wide range of wedding venues, from historic estates and grand mansions to quaint cottages and rustic barns. Some of the most popular venues in the region include Mount Lofty House, a grand estate with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and The Inglewood Inn, a charming old world pub with a beautiful garden space for weddings, and the oldest bridge still in use in SA!

Inglewood Inn Wedding Photo

One of the best things about getting married in the Adelaide Hills is the stunning photo opportunities. The region’s rolling hills, lush forests, and charming towns provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos. Whether you’re looking for a classic wedding shot or something a little more unique – including the odd castle(!), the Adelaide Hills is the perfect place to capture your special day.

Night photo at the manor basket range wedding

The Riverland: Beauty on the Murray

Located along the Murray River, the Riverland is a stunning wedding destination that combines natural beauty with rural charm. While perhaps a bit out of town to be considered one of Adelaide’s best wedding regions – With its picturesque riverfront, sprawling vineyards, and charming towns, the Riverland is a popular choice for couples looking for a unique wedding experience.

Brid and groom with river Murray

One of the most notable features of the Riverland is its stunning natural beauty. From the majestic Murray River to the lush vineyards and orchards, the region offers plenty of opportunities for gorgeous wedding photos. Couples can even take a romantic river cruise or enjoy a scenic helicopter ride to capture some unforgettable shots.

bride and groom in ruin of old cottage

There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Riverland, including the historic Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery and the fun Riverland wine centre. Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery is a unique venue that combines the charm of a historic woolshed with the convenience of a modern brewery. The Riverland wine centre is a popular wedding destination that offers a huge range of accomodation options, and stellar cliff-top views of the river.

Coastal Adelaide: Beachy Bliss

For couples seeking a laid-back, beachy vibe, the coastal region of Adelaide is the perfect choice. From the stunning beaches of Glenelg and Henley to the rugged coastline of Port Willunga, the region offers plenty of options for a seaside wedding.

Wedding photo at Pt Willunga Beach wedding

One of the best things about getting married in coastal Adelaide is the range of photo opportunities. From the soft, golden sands of the beaches to the dramatic cliffs and rock formations, there are plenty of unique and picturesque spots to capture your special day.

Wedding photo at beach with drone

There are many wonderful wedding venues along the coast of Adelaide, including the iconic Adelaide Sailing Club and the rustic-chic The Joinery. The Adelaide Sailing Club is a popular wedding destination that offers stunning ocean views and a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any wedding style. The Joinery is a unique wedding venue that combines the charm of a historic building with the convenience of modern amenities.

Under the jetty

Adelaide CBD: City Chic

For couples who love the buzz of the city, Adelaide’s CBD offers plenty of options for a chic, urban wedding. With its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and gourmet food scene, the CBD is the perfect destination for couples who want a wedding with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe.

Bridal couple in Adelaide Arcade

One of the best things about getting married in the Adelaide CBD is the range of photo opportunities. From the sleek, modern buildings to the charming alleyways and laneways, there are plenty of unique and picturesque spots to capture your special day.

Bride and Groom in the middle of Granfell St Adelaide

There are many wonderful wedding venues in the Adelaide CBD, including the stunning National Wine Centre and the historic Ayers House. The National Wine Centre is a popular wedding destination that offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a stunning outdoor terrace with views of the city skyline. Ayers House is a historic mansion that has been hosting weddings for over 150 years and offers a range of elegant spaces to suit any wedding style.

Bride and groom in the lights of the Adelaide railway

Adelaide is home to some of the most beautiful wedding regions in Australia, each with its unique charms and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a rustic vineyard wedding in the Barossa Valley or a chic urban wedding in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, there is something for every couple. Hopefully this little guide I’ve put together will help a bit in your research of Adelaide’s best wedding regions for your big day!

For more information on wedding venues, and not just ‘Adelaide’s best wedding regions’, be sure to check out https://AdelaideWeddingVenues.com as I’ve spent countless hours building that website in order to better help bridal couples find their perfect spot!

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From Proposal to Wedding: How to Plan the Perfect Engagement

You meet the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, you get down on one knee, you propose, they say yes and you live happily ever after. Sounds simple, right?

The truth is, your engagement process can be lengthy and complex. Maintaining a level of excitement throughout the intervening period between proposal and wedding isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve broken down everything you need to consider to plan the perfect engagement.

Engagement ring in banksia

How to Plan the Perfect Engagement

The proposal

First things first: the ring. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to finding the perfect engagement ring. You can browse an array of engagement rings from Larsen Jewellery to give yourself the best chance to find something they’ll love. Once you’ve secured the perfect piece of jewellery, it’s time to plan your proposal. Some things to consider before proposing include:

  • The likelihood of a positive response.
  • The perfect location – it could be somewhere with sentimental value for your relationship, or simply a picturesque venue.
  • The weather forecast – if there’s a high chance of rain, ensure you have an indoor backup plan.
  • Discuss with the family – if your partner’s family is more old-school, or you think this is a touch your partner would appreciate, having a conversation with your partner’s family is a good idea.
  • Optional extras include professional photography or an immediate surprise engagement party.
Engagement ring perched between heels

Engagement party

You can choose to hold your engagement party as a surprise event to cap off the day of your proposal. More traditionally, you can hold the event in the weeks following the proposal.

Orthodoxy suggests engagement parties should be held by the parents of the bride, but these days there’s really no need to follow such a tradition. Whoever’s willing to put their hands up and has access to an appropriate property is the perfect choice.

Remember that anyone you invite to the engagement party should also be a wedding guest. Beyond that, the rules for your engagement party are pretty much up to you! Choose a form of a food service that works for you, be it finger foods or a sit-down meal. Fill up the fridge with your favourite beverages, and don’t forget to include fun engagement party games like the newlywed game, “how well do you know the bride and groom?” and a plastic ring hunt.

Guests looking at phone together

Wedding planning

Once your proposal and engagement party are in the books, it’s time to get down to the serious business of wedding planning. Splitting this burden of wedding planning very much depends on the nature of your relationship.

Many couples include one person who has been obsessively dreaming of their wedding day since they were a child. Often, this individual will be happy to take the lead on the wedding planning. Other couples may require a more collaborative approach.

Either way, it’s important you outline at the beginning of the wedding planning process how involved each member of the relationship is going to be. When in doubt, aim for as close to a 50-50 split as possible to keep things fair.

Here are some additional tips to keep your wedding planning process smooth:

  • Make the guest list a top priority. Your guest list is crucial to deciding other factors of your wedding like your venue. If you feel your expenses ballooning too much, cut down on the list.
  • Avoid problematic dates where there are major concerts or conferences in town.
  • Consider enlisting the services of a professional wedding planner.
  • Keep a close eye on the weather forecast.
  • Read the reviews – ensure your wedding vendors come well-recommended.

That’s just a small taste of everything that goes into wedding planning. You can read our full 12 month wedding planning checklist here.

Bride and groom amongst the vines at Sneaky’s

Keeping the spark alive

It’s no secret that wedding planning can be a stressful experience, and it can put some strain on your relationship. But your engagement should be a magical time in your relationship. Here are some tips to keep your relationship going strong during your engagement and not let your worries get the better of you.

  • Don’t skimp on date nights.
  • Make a conscious effort to constantly check in with one another and constantly communicate.
  • Ensure you are fairly splitting the engagement duties.
  • Allow each other to have some alone time – absence makes the heart grow fonder, after all.
  • Stay adventurous and always try new things together.
Bride and groom splashing one another in Lake Louise

The wedding

You’ve made it! The day you’ve been dreaming of is finally here. When it comes to the wedding day itself, the key is to stay in the moment. Truly enjoy every single moment, make your rounds, and above all really feel the love you have for your partner. Next stop: honeymoon!

There’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect engagement. The same tip for your wedding day applies throughout your engagement. From proposal to planning to saying your vows, try your best to enjoy every one of these critical milestones in your relationship and in your life.