Celebrate! 10 things to do when you’re engaged

Both the question and the Champagne have been popped – congratulations to you both on this exciting time of your lives. Indeed, the most popular time for popping the question is upon us (we’re talking of all those Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day proposals ❤️ Exciting!), so there is no better time for us to share ten of our favourite ways to celebrate (and the first things you should do after popping the bubbles, of course!).

Welcome to your engagement era …

1. Share the good news

Congratulations, you’re engaged! So, now what? Well, while you’re probably busting to share your news with the world, our hot tip is to tell your closest family and friends first. Especially your parents. They won’t want to hear it second-hand via a distant relative’s Facebook feed. Make that memorable call to your favourites, then go scream it from the rooftops.

2. Treat yourself to a mani

So, you have this beautiful sparkler gracing your left hand (as if you can stop looking at it!) Well, it’s time to make sure that your ring is a perfect fit, and if not, get it re-sized asap – this can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. The last thing you need in your first week of engaged bliss is to lose your

You can’t fake that freshly engaged glow! From a casual frolic in the park with your fur baby to a major production, there are endless ways to capture the moment. And a good photographer will create a mood that feels authentic to you, whether that means a jeans-and-tee dress code or a black-tie setting.

Bonus: An engagement shoot connects you with a potential wedding photographer. You’ll soon find out if they get your vibe and whether you like theirs.

That new rock will invite some serious attention, so ensure your hands are ready for their close-up with a home treatment or professional manicure. Bring on the engagement ring spam!

3. Book an engagement shoot

Bonus: An engagement shoot connects you with a potential wedding photographer. You’ll soon find out if they get your vibe and whether you like theirs.

4. Have your engagement ring resized & insured

You’ll never want that shiny new bauble off your finger. So, if it’s not the perfect fit, get your ring resized pronto to ensure it stays put in any situation. And sure, it’s not the most romantic item on the list, but updating your insurance is one of the most important things you can do after ‘I do.’ That way, if your ring is stolen, damaged, or lost at the beach/gym/down the drain, you have recourse. Often your home and contents insurance will cover up to a certain amount, but this only applies at home.

5. Celebrate with your parents

And, of course, we’re talking about both sets of parents. This is a super opportunity to get to know your future in-laws better or perhaps even bring everyone together for a lovely lunch or dinner (your treat). Make sure this is a separate, more intimate event to the engagement party (see below).

6. Escape for a short break

Stay in the love bubble with a romantic short break. It might be a sentimental spot or even a potential wedding locale — anywhere you can spend a little quality time together away from the daily hustle. Leave the seating chart at home and enjoy what’s important: the two of you.

Discover dreamy Queensland locations inspired by ‘Ticket to Paradise’ here

7. Host an engagement party

These went the way of gala guest lists during Covid – but engagement parties are back! The style is completely up to you: fancy sit-down dinner, boat cruise, or maybe a fun cocktail bash at yours. Wondering if you need to invite everyone from your engagement party to your wedding? Traditionally, yes. The wedding may also include those who can’t travel long distances to both events. However, as with almost everything wedding, anything goes! Just be clear about your plans if you’re designing a micro wedding where only a portion of your e-party pals will score an invite.

Bonus: A big engagement bash could be a great option if you’re secretly planning to elope.

8. Visit the place where you first met

This may already be a treasured personal tradition (especially if it’s a picnic spot, restaurant, or café). But if not, make a nostalgic pilgrimage back to where it all began.

9. Phone a (married) friend

Not sure where to begin with the big day? Married friends will usually be happy to lend an ear to your plans or even offer advice on the sticky parts of your journey. Sometimes just sharing in the memories and experiences of couples who have been-there-done-that can help inform and inspire your own choices.

Share in real wedding experiences from around Queensland here

10. Swap dream scenarios

While we’re not suggesting you rush into full-blown wedding planning (au contraire, we recommend riding that engagement high!), there’s no harm in throwing a few ideas around. Be honest about how you want your day to look and feel. It may be unconventional: a destination wedding with just a handful of guests. Or perhaps a church ceremony and a cathedral veil is what you’ve envisioned since you were ten. Don’t worry, you don’t have to tell anyone else anything at this stage (although be prepared, they will ask). This is a time to explore your options at your own pace, paving the way for a perfect day.

Photos: Luke Middlemiss Photography